The therapeutic potential of targeting the CHD protein family in cancer

Accumulating evidence indicates that epigenetic events undergo deregulation in various cancer types, playing crucial roles in tumor development. Among the epigenetic factors involved in the epigenetic remodeling of chromatin, the chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein (CHD) family frequently exhibits gain- or loss-of-function mutations in distinct cancer types. Therefore, targeting CHD remodelers holds the potential for antitumor treatment. In this review, we discuss epigenetic regulations of cancer development. We emphasize proteins in the CHD family, delving deeply into the intricate mechanisms governing their functions. Additionally, we provide an overview of current therapeutic strategies targeting CHD family members in preclinical trials. We further discuss the promising approaches that have demonstrated early signs of success in cancer treatment.

[Correlation between serum growth differentiation factor 11 level and severity of coronary artery disease in patients with acute myocardial infarction]

Objective: To investigate the correlation between serum growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) level and coronary artery lesions in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and the predictive efficacy of nomogram risk prediction model based on GDF11 combined with traditional risk factors on the occurrence of STEMI. Methods: This study was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Patients hospitalized in the Department of Cardiology of the 904th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of People's Liberation Army of China from 2016 to 2018 were selected and divided into control group and STEMI group. The demographic data, blood lipid level, laboratory indicators of blood and GDF11 level were collected. Logistic regression analysis screened out independent correlated factors for the occurrence of STEMI. Spearman correlation analysis clarified the correlation of each indicator with the SYNTAX or Gensini scores. A nomogram risk prediction model for the risk of STEMI occurrence and the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to compare the prediction efficiency of each model. Results: A total of 367 patients were enrolled, divided into control group (n=172) and STEMI group (n=195), age (66.5±11.8), male 222 (60.49%). The serum GDF11 level of STEMI group was significantly lower than that of the control group (36.20 (16.60, 70.75) μg/L vs. 85.00 (53.93, 117.10) μg/L, P<0.001). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed serum GDF11(OR=0.98, 95%CI: 0.97-0.99) and traditional independent risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, C-reactive protein, homocysteine, lipoprotein (a) and apolipoprotein A1/B were independent correlate factors for the occurrence of STEMI (P<0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that serum GDF11 was negatively correlated with SYNTAX score and Gensini score (P<0.05). The nomogram model constructed by serum GDF11 combined with traditional independent risk factors (AUC=0.85, 95%CI: 0.81-0.89) had better predictive value for the occurrence of STEMI than the traditional nomogram model constructed by independent risk factors(AUC=0.80, 95%CI:0.75-0.84) or serum GDF11 (AUC=0.76, 95%CI: 0.72-0.81), all P<0.01. Conclusions: Serum GDF11 is an independent correlate factor in the occurrence of STEMI and is negatively correlated with the severity of coronary artery lesions in patients with STEMI. The nomogram model constructed based on GDF11 combined with traditional risk factors can be a good predictor for the occurrence of STEMI.

RPA and Rad27 limit templated and inverted insertions at DNA breaks

Formation of templated insertions at DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is very common in cancer cells. The mechanisms and enzymes regulating these events are largely unknown. Here, we investigated templated insertions in yeast at DSBs using amplicon sequencing across a repaired locus. We document very short (most ∼5-34 bp), templated inverted duplications at DSBs. They are generated through a foldback mechanism that utilizes microhomologies adjacent to the DSB. Enzymatic requirements suggest a hybrid mechanism wherein one end requires Polδ-mediated synthesis while the other end is captured by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). This process is exacerbated in mutants with low levels or mutated RPA ( rtt105 Δ; rfa1 -t33) or extensive resection mutant ( sgs1 Δ exo1 Δ). Templated insertions from various distant genomic locations also increase in these mutants as well as in rad27 Δ and originate from fragile regions of the genome. Among complex insertions, common events are insertions of two sequences, originating from the same locus and with inverted orientation. We propose that these inversions are also formed by microhomology-mediated template switching. Taken together, we propose that a shortage of RPA typical in cancer cells is one possible factor stimulating the formation of templated insertions.

Achievement of Target Gain Larger than Unity in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

On December 5, 2022, an indirect drive fusion implosion on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) achieved a target gain G_{target} of 1.5. This is the first laboratory demonstration of exceeding "scientific breakeven" (or G_{target}>1) where 2.05 MJ of 351 nm laser light produced 3.1 MJ of total fusion yield, a result which significantly exceeds the Lawson criterion for fusion ignition as reported in a previous NIF implosion [H. Abu-Shawareb et al. (Indirect Drive ICF Collaboration), Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 075001 (2022)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.129.075001]. This achievement is the culmination of more than five decades of research and gives proof that laboratory fusion, based on fundamental physics principles, is possible. This Letter reports on the target, laser, design, and experimental advancements that led to this result.

[Clinicopathological features of SMARCA4-deficient lung adenocarcinoma: a study of 42 cases]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and genetic mutations of SMARCA4-deficient lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: From January 2021 to April 2023 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 42 cases of SMARCA4-deficienct lung adenocarcinoma were diagnosed and now analyzed. All cases were retrospectively studied using hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. The clinicopathological features were reviewed. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed to investigate the mutations of related genes. Results: Among the 42 cases, there were 35 biopsy and 7 surgical specimens. There were 38 males and 4 females. The male to female ratio was 9.5∶1.0, with an age range from 42 to 78 years. Thirty-three patients were smokers. Overall, 4 cases (9.5%), 2 cases (4.7%), 18 cases (42.9%) and 18 cases (42.9%) were at stages Ⅰ, Ⅱ, Ⅲ, and Ⅳ, respectively. Microscopically, all the cases were non-mucinous adenocarcinoma, without lepidic pattern. The morphology was diverse. Rhabdomyoid cells, tumor giant cells and tumor necrosis were present. Most of the tumor cells had eosinophilic cytoplasm and occasionally clear cytoplasm. Defined cell borders and variable cytoplasmic hyaline secretory globules could be found. Inflammatory cells infiltrated the tumor stroma. Immunohistochemistry showed 29 cases (69.0%, 29/42) expressed TTF1, 10 cases (40.0%, 10/25) expressed Napsin A, and 20 cases (100.0%, 20/20) expressed INI1. Forty cases (95.2%, 40/42) showed BRG1 loss in all tumor cells, while 2 cases (4.8%, 2/42) had partial BRG1 loss. PD-L1 (22C3) was positive in 59.2% of the cases (16/27). NGS revealed mutations in EGFR, ROS1, MET, RET and KRAS. Six cases (6/8) showed SMARCA4 mutation, while some cases were accompanied by mutations of TP53 (7/15), STK11 (4/8), and KEAP1 (1/8). Driver gene mutations were more common in women (P<0.05). Patients were followed up for 1-25 months. Four patients died and 20 patients' diseases progressed. Conclusions: SMARCA4-deficient lung adenocarcinoma lacks characteristic morphology. Most of them express TTF1 and harbor driver gene mutations. It is necessary to identify this subset of lung adenocarcinoma by carrying out BRG1 stain routinely on lung adenocarcinoma. These patients can then be identified and benefit from targeted therapies.

TNIK regulation of interferon signaling and endothelial cell response to virus infection

Background

Traf2 and Nck-interacting kinase (TNIK) is known for its regulatory role in various processes within cancer cells. However, its role within endothelial cells (ECs) has remained relatively unexplored.

Methods

Leveraging RNA-seq data and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), we probed the potential impact of TNIK depletion on ECs.

Results

Examination of RNA-seq data uncovered more than 450 Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) in TNIK-depleted ECs, displaying a fold change exceeding 2 with a false discovery rate (FDR) below 0.05. IPA analysis unveiled that TNIK depletion leads to the inhibition of the interferon (IFN) pathway [-log (p-value) >11], downregulation of IFN-related genes, and inhibition of Hypercytokinemia/Hyperchemokinemia [-log (p-value) >8]. The validation process encompassed qRT-PCR to evaluate mRNA expression of crucial IFN-related genes, immunoblotting to gauge STAT1 and STAT2 protein levels, and ELISA for the quantification of IFN and cytokine secretion in siTNIK-depleted ECs. These assessments consistently revealed substantial reductions upon TNIK depletion. When transducing HUVECs with replication incompetent E1-E4 deleted adenovirus expressing green fluorescent protein (Ad-GFP), it was demonstrated that TNIK depletion did not affect the uptake of Ad-GFP. Nonetheless, TNIK depletion induced cytopathic effects (CPE) in ECs transduced with wild-type human adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad-WT).

Summary

Our findings suggest that TNIK plays a crucial role in regulating the EC response to virus infections through modulation of the IFN pathway.

Yeast EndoG prevents genome instability by degrading cytoplasmic DNA

In metazoans release of mitochondrial DNA or retrotransposon cDNA to cytoplasm can cause sterile inflammation and disease 1. Cytoplasmic nucleases degrade these DNA species to limit inflammation 2,3. It remains unknown whether degradation these DNA also prevents nuclear genome instability. To address this question, we decided to identify the nuclease regulating transfer of these cytoplasmic DNA species to the nucleus. We used an amplicon sequencing-based method in yeast enabling analysis of millions of DSB repair products. Nuclear mtDNA (NUMTs) and retrotransposon cDNA insertions increase dramatically in nondividing stationary phase cells. Yeast EndoG (Nuc1) nuclease limits insertions of cDNA and transfer of very long mtDNA (>10 kb) that forms unstable circles or rarely insert in the genome, but it promotes formation of short NUMTs (~45-200 bp). Nuc1 also regulates transfer of cytoplasmic DNA to nucleus in aging or during meiosis. We propose that Nuc1 preserves genome stability by degrading retrotransposon cDNA and long mtDNA, while short NUMTs can originate from incompletely degraded mtDNA. This work suggests that nucleases eliminating cytoplasmic DNA play a role in preserving genome stability.

[Serum glycocalyx markers in patients after cardiac arrest: association with outcomes]

Objective: To assess the levels of serum glycocalyx markers in the first 24 hours after cardiac arrest (CA) and investigate their relationship with 30-day outcomes. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on prospectively collected data from CA patients, who were admitted to the intensive care units of the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University and obtained return of spontaneous circulation for more than 24 hours between September 2021 and October 2022. Serum samples obtained at the 24-hour after CA were utilized to measure the levels of glycocalyx markers, including heparan sulfate (HS), hyaluronic acid (HA), and syndecan-1 (Sdc-1). Patients were allocated into good function (CPC1-2) and poor function (CPC3-5) groups on the basis of cerebral performance category (CPC) at 30 days post-CA. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between serum glycocalyx markers and neurological outcomes. Patients were regrouped in light of 30-d mortality and Cox regression analysis was used to determine the association between serum glycocalyx markers and 30-d mortality. Results: A total of 71 patients were included in the study, including 31 (43.7%) females and 40 (56.3%) males, with an average age of (59.0±17.0) years. The poor function group (n=49) demonstrated significantly elevated levels of HS and HA when compared to the good function group (n=22) [HS: 2 461.0(1 623.0, 5 492.0) μg/L vs 1 492.0 (914.0, 2 550.0) μg/L, P=0.008; HA: 124.0(97.0, 365.0)μg/L vs 337.0(135.0, 1 421.0) μg/L, P=0.033]. Adjusted logistic regression analysis revealed that HS was independently associated with poor neurological outcome [odds ratio (OR)=0.389, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.182-0.828, P=0.014]. In the 30-day mortality analysis, the death group (n=32) exhibited significantly higher levels of HS and HA when compared to the survival group (n=39) [HS: 1 880.0(1 011.0, 3 554.0) μg/L vs 2 500.0(1 726.0, 6 276.0) μg/L, P=0.027; HA: 162.0(99.0, 537.0) μg/L vs 813.0(148.0, 1 531.0) μg/L, P=0.025]. Adjusted Cox regression analysis indicated that elevated levels of HS and HA were independent risk factors (HS: HR=1.697, 95%CI: 1.126-2.557, P=0.011; HA: HR=1.336, 95%CI: 1.047-1.705, P=0.020) for 30-day mortality. Conclusions: High level of serum HS in 24 hours after CA may serve as a potential predictive marker for both neurological function and 30-day mortality. However, high level of serum HA appears to primarily predict 30-day mortality. Sdc-1 does not seem to contribute to outcome prediction.

Osteoporosis is associated with depression among older adults: a nationwide population-based study in the USA from 2005 to 2020

OBJECTIVES

The global prevalence of osteoporosis is rising, yet it is unclear whether people with osteoporosis have a higher risk of depression than those without osteoporosis.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

METHODS

We used nationally representative data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in 2005-2006, 2007-2008, 2009-2010, 2013-2014, and 2017-2020. The diagnosis of osteoporosis was based on the bone mineral density of the femoral neck measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Depression was assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), with a score ≥5 as depressive symptoms and a score ≥10 as probable depression. We used logistic regression models to evaluate the association between osteoporosis and depressive symptoms and probable depression.

RESULTS

We included 11,603 adults (aged 50 years and older, 52.3% male) and observed 5.2% of them had osteoporosis. 31.9% of these osteoporotic people had depressive symptoms, and 10.0% had probable depression. Compared to participants without osteoporosis, those with osteoporosis were 1.73 times more likely to experience depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 1.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20-2.50) and 1.91 times more likely to experience probable depression (OR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.02-3.59), after adjusting for sex, age, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, family income, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, and alcohol abuse. Moderate-to-vigorous activities mediated the associations between osteoporosis and depression and depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteoporosis is an independent risk factor for depression. This study highlights the need to evaluate the mental well-being of patients with osteoporosis in clinical and primary health care.

Higher Cognitive Reserve Is Beneficial for Cognitive Performance Via Various Locus Coeruleus Functional Pathways in the Pre-Dementia Stage of Alzheimer's Disease

BACKGROUND

Cognitive reserve (CR) shows protective effects on cognitive function in older adult and in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the brain mechanisms underlying the CR effect on the non-dementia AD spectrum (subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI)) are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential moderate effect of CR on brain functional networks associated with cognitive performance.

METHODS

We selected 200 participants, including 48 cognitively normal (CN) and 56 SCD, and 96 patients with MCI from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). Seed-based locus coeruleus functional connectivity (LC FC) was conducted to detect early brain functional changes in the non-dementia AD spectrum. CR was assessed via years of education and intelligence (IQ). The ANDI composite executive function scores (ADNI-EF) and ADNI composite memory scores (ANDI-MEM) at baseline and 24-month follow-up were used to assess cognitive performance.

RESULTS

Compared to the CN group, the SCD group showed abnormal LC FC with the executive control network (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, DLPFC), salience network, sensorimotor network, reward network, and hippocampus, while these alterations were inverted at the MCI stage. The LC-hippocampus FC was correlated with ADNI-MEM at baseline and follow-up, and these relationships were moderated by education. The LC-DLPFC FC was correlated with ADNI-EF at baseline, and this association was moderated by IQ.

CONCLUSION

Our results manifested that higher levels of CR would confer protective effects on SCD and MCI. Furthermore, IQ and education could moderate the relationship between LC FC and cognition through different pathways.

Yeast EndoG prevents genome instability by degrading cytoplasmic DNA

In metazoans release of mitochondrial DNA or retrotransposon cDNA to cytoplasm can cause sterile inflammation and disease. Cytoplasmic nucleases degrade these DNA species to limit inflammation. It remains unknown whether degradation these DNA also prevents nuclear genome instability. To address this question, we decided to identify the nuclease regulating transfer of these cytoplasmic DNA species to the nucleus. We used an amplicon sequencing-based method in yeast enabling analysis of millions of DSB repair products. Nu clear mt DNA (NUMTs) and retrotransposon cDNA insertions increase dramatically in nondividing stationary phase cells. Yeast EndoG (Nuc1) nuclease limits insertions of cDNA and transfer of very long mtDNA (>10 kb) that forms unstable circles or rarely insert in the genome, but it promotes formation of short NUMTs (∼45-200 bp). Nuc1 also regulates transfer of cytoplasmic DNA to nucleus in aging or during meiosis. We propose that Nuc1 preserves genome stability by degrading retrotransposon cDNA and long mtDNA, while short NUMTs can originate from incompletely degraded mtDNA. This work suggests that nucleases eliminating cytoplasmic DNA play a role in preserving genome stability.

Efficacy of laparoscopic surgery for loop colostomy: a propensity-score-matched analysis

PURPOSE

Colostomy is a common procedure for fecal diversion, but the optimal colostomy approach is unclear in terms of surgical outcomes and stoma-related complications. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and feasibility of laparoscopic loop colostomy.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent loop colostomy at Shizuoka Cancer Center in Japan between April 2010 and March 2022. Patients were divided into two groups based on surgical approach: the laparoscopic (LAP) and open (OPEN) groups. Surgical outcomes and the incidences of stoma-related complications such as stomal prolapse (SP), parastomal hernia (PSH), and skin disorders (SD) were compared with and without propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Of the 388 eligible patients, 180 (46%) were in the LAP group and 208 (54%) were in the OPEN group. The male-to-female ratio was 5.5:4.5 in the Lap group and was 5.3:4.7 in the OPEN group, respectively. The median age was 68 years (range, 31-88 years) in the LAP group and 65 years (range, 23-93 years) in the OPEN group, respectively. The LAP group, compared with the OPEN group, had a shorter operative time and lower incidences of surgical site infection (3.9% versus 16.3%, respectively; p < 0.01) and SD (11.7% versus 24.5%, respectively; p < 0.01). There was no significant difference between the LAP and OPEN groups in the incidence of SP (17.3% versus 17.3%, respectively) or PSH (8.9% versus 6.7%, respectively). After propensity score matching, the incidences of surgical site infection and SD were significantly lower in the LAP group than in the OPEN group, while there were no significant differences in the operative time or the incidences of SP and PSH.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that laparoscopic surgery could be beneficial and feasible in loop colostomy.

Low RNA stability signifies strong expression regulatability of tumor suppressors

RNA expression of a gene is determined by not only transcriptional regulation, but also post-transcriptional regulation of RNA decay. The precise regulation of RNA stability in the cell plays an important role in normal development. Dysregulation of RNA stability can lead to diseases such as cancer. Here we found tumor suppressor RNAs tended to decay fast in normal cell types when compared with other RNAs. Consistent with a negative effect of m6A modification on RNA stability, we observed preferential deposition of m6A on tumor suppressor RNAs. Moreover, abundant m6A and fast decay of tumor suppressor RNAs both tended to be further enhanced in prostate cancer cells relative to normal prostate epithelial cells. Further, knockdown of m6A methyltransferase METTL3 and reader YTHDF2 in prostate cancer cells both posed stronger effect on tumor suppressor RNAs than on other RNAs. These results indicated a strong post transcriptional expression regulatability mediated by abundant m6A modification on tumor suppressor RNAs.

Transcriptional inhibition after irradiation occurs preferentially at highly expressed genes in a manner dependent on cell cycle progression

In response to DNA double strand damage, ongoing transcription is inhibited to facilitate accurate DNA repair while transcriptional recovery occurs after DNA repair is complete. However, the mechanisms at play and identity of the transcripts being regulated in this manner are unclear. In contrast to the situation following UV damage, we found that transcriptional recovery after ionizing radiation (IR) occurs in a manner independent of the HIRA histone chaperone. Sequencing of the nascent transcripts identified a programmed transcriptional response, where certain transcripts and pathways are rapidly downregulated after IR, while other transcripts and pathways are upregulated. Specifically, most of the loss of nascent transcripts occurring after IR is due to inhibition of transcriptional initiation of the highly transcribed histone genes and the rDNA. To identify factors responsible for transcriptional inhibition after IR in an unbiased manner, we performed a whole genome gRNA library CRISPR / Cas9 screen. Many of the top hits in our screen were factors required for protein neddylation. However, at short times after inhibition of neddylation, transcriptional inhibition still occurred after IR, even though neddylation was effectively inhibited. Persistent inhibition of neddylation blocked transcriptional inhibition after IR, and it also leads to cell cycle arrest. Indeed, we uncovered that many inhibitors and conditions that lead to cell cycle arrest in G1 or G2 phase also prevent transcriptional inhibition after IR. As such, it appears that transcriptional inhibition after IR occurs preferentially at highly expressed genes in cycling cells.

Heterozygous Kmt2d loss diminishes enhancers to render medulloblastoma cells vulnerable to combinatory inhibition of lysine demethylation and oxidative phosphorylation

The histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methyltransferase KMT2D (also called MLL4) is one of the most frequently mutated epigenetic modifiers in medulloblastoma (MB) and other types of cancer. Notably, heterozygous loss of KMT2D is prevalent in MB and other cancer types. However, what role heterozygous KMT2D loss plays in tumorigenesis has not been well characterized. Here, we show that heterozygous Kmt2d loss highly promotes MB driven by heterozygous loss of the MB suppressor gene Ptch in mice. Heterozygous Kmt2d loss upregulated tumor-promoting programs, including oxidative phosphorylation and G-protein-coupled receptor signaling, in Ptch-mutant-driven MB genesis. Mechanistically, both downregulation of the transcription-repressive tumor suppressor gene NCOR2 by heterozygous Kmt2d loss and upregulation of the oncogene MycN by heterozygous Ptch loss increased the expression of tumor-promoting genes. Moreover, heterozygous Kmt2d loss extensively diminished enhancer signals (e.g., H3K27ac) and H3K4me3 signature, including those for tumor suppressor genes (e.g., Ncor2). Combinatory pharmacological inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation and the H3K4 demethylase LSD1 drastically reduced tumorigenicity of MB cells bearing heterozygous Kmt2d loss. These findings reveal the mechanistic basis underlying the MB-promoting effect of heterozygous KMT2D loss, provide a rationale for a therapeutic strategy for treatment of KMT2D-deficient MB, and have mechanistic implications for the molecular pathogenesis of other types of cancer bearing heterozygous KMT2D loss.

[Diagnosis status and genetic characteristics analysis of Fanconi anemia in China]

Objective: To analyze the clinical and molecular diagnostic status of Fanconi anemia (FA) in China. Methods: The General situation, clinical manifestations and chromosome breakage test and genetic test results of 107 pediatric FA cases registered in the Chinese Blood and Marrow Transplantation Registry Group (CBMTRG) and the Chinese Children Blood and Marrow Transplantation Registry Group (CCBMTRG) from August 2009 to January 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. Children with FANCA gene variants were divided into mild and severe groups based on the type of variant, and Wilcoxon-test was used to compare the phenotypic differences between groups. Results: Of the 176 registered FA patients, 69 (39.2%) cases were excluded due to lack of definitive genetic diagnosis results, and the remaining 107 children from 15 hospitals were included in the study, including 70 males and 37 females. The age at transplantation treatment were 6 (4, 9) years. The enrolled children were involved in 10 pathogenic genes, including 89 cases of FANCA gene, 7 cases of FANCG gene, 3 cases of FANCB gene, 2 cases of FANCE gene and 1 case each of FANCC, FANCD1, FANCD2, FANCF, FANCJ, and FANCN gene. Compound heterozygous or homozygous of loss-of-function variants account for 69.2% (72/104). Loss-of-function variants account for 79.2% (141/178) in FANCA gene variants, and 20.8% (37/178) were large exon deletions. Fifty-five children (51.4%) had chromosome breakage test records, with a positive rate of 81.8% (45/55). There were 172 congenital malformations in 80 children.Café-au-Lait spots (16.3%, 28/172), thumb deformities (16.3%,28/172), polydactyly (13.9%, 24/172), and short stature (12.2%, 21/172) were the most common congenital malformations in Chinese children with FA. No significant difference was found in the number of congenital malformations between children with severe (50 cases) and mild FANCA variants (26 cases) (Z=-1.33, P=0.185). Conclusions: FANCA gene is the main pathogenic gene in children with FA, where the detection of its exon deletion should be strengthened clinically. There were no phenotypic differences among children with different types of FANCA variants. Chromosome break test is helpful to determine the pathogenicity of variants, but its accuracy needs to be improved.

Tbx5 maintains atrial identity in post-natal cardiomyocytes by regulating an atrial-specific enhancer network

Understanding how the atrial and ventricular heart chambers maintain distinct identities is a prerequisite for treating chamber-specific diseases. Here, we selectively knocked out (KO) the transcription factor Tbx5 in the atrial working myocardium to evaluate its requirement for atrial identity. Atrial Tbx5 inactivation downregulated atrial cardiomyocyte (aCM) selective gene expression. Using concurrent single nucleus transcriptome and open chromatin profiling, genomic accessibility differences were identified between control and Tbx5 KO aCMs, revealing that 69% of the control-enriched ATAC regions were bound by TBX5. Genes associated with these regions were downregulated in KO aCMs, suggesting they function as TBX5-dependent enhancers. Comparing enhancer chromatin looping using H3K27ac HiChIP identified 510 chromatin loops sensitive to TBX5 dosage, and 74.8% of control-enriched loops contained anchors in control-enriched ATAC regions. Together, these data demonstrate TBX5 maintains the atrial gene expression program by binding to and preserving the tissue-specific chromatin architecture of atrial enhancers.

[Advances of hydrogel in early protection of exposed intra-abdominal organs after open abdomen]

The protection of open abdomen (OA) wound is a significant subject in the field of trauma surgery. The key technical challenge in the early stage of OA wound management involves promoting granulation tissue filling between intestinal segments, reducing intestinal wall abrasion, and preventing the development of enteroatmospheric fistulas (EAF). Hydrogels, characterized by their high water content and exceptional biocompatibility, serve as extracellular matrix-mimicking materials, and are extensively employed in various medical and healthcare applications. In this review, we discuss the application of hydrogel developed by natural biomaterials in OA wounds protection, taking into consideration the unique pathophysiological characteristics of the OA wounds. This review aims to provide valuable insights for the development of hydrogel materials for early-stage OA wound protection in future research.

Epigenetic Induction of Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Alterations in Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections

BACKGROUND

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching has been increasingly detected in aortic aneurysm and dissection (AAD) tissues. However, the diverse SMC phenotypes in AAD tissues and the mechanisms driving SMC phenotypic alterations remain to be identified.

METHODS

We examined the transcriptomic and epigenomic dynamics of aortic SMC phenotypic changes in mice with angiotensin II-induced AAD by using single-cell RNA sequencing and single-cell sequencing assay for transposase-accessible chromatin. SMC phenotypic alteration in aortas from patients with ascending thoracic AAD was examined by using single-cell RNA sequencing analysis.

RESULTS

Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that aortic stress induced the transition of SMCs from a primary contractile phenotype to proliferative, extracellular matrix-producing, and inflammatory phenotypes. Lineage tracing showed the complete transformation of SMCs to fibroblasts and macrophages. Single-cell sequencing assay for transposase-accessible chromatin analysis indicated that these phenotypic alterations were controlled by chromatin remodeling marked by the reduced chromatin accessibility of contractile genes and the induced chromatin accessibility of genes involved in proliferation, extracellular matrix, and inflammation. IRF3 (interferon regulatory factor 3), a proinflammatory transcription factor activated by cytosolic DNA, was identified as a key driver of the transition of aortic SMCs from a contractile phenotype to an inflammatory phenotype. In cultured SMCs, cytosolic DNA signaled through its sensor STING (stimulator of interferon genes)-TBK1 (tank-binding kinase 1) to activate IRF3, which bound and recruited EZH2 (enhancer of zeste homolog 2) to contractile genes to induce repressive H3K27me3 modification and gene suppression. In contrast, double-stranded DNA-STING-IRF3 signaling induced inflammatory gene expression in SMCs. In Sting-/- mice, the aortic stress-induced transition of SMCs into an inflammatory phenotype was prevented, and SMC populations were preserved. Finally, profound SMC phenotypic alterations toward diverse directions were detected in human ascending thoracic AAD tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study reveals the dynamic epigenetic induction of SMC phenotypic alterations in AAD. DNA damage and cytosolic leakage drive SMCs from a contractile phenotype to an inflammatory phenotype.

Black Ultra-Thin Crystalline Silicon Wafers Reach the 4n2 Absorption Limit-Application to IBC Solar Cells

Cutting costs by progressively decreasing substrate thickness is a common theme in the crystalline silicon photovoltaic  industry for the last decades, since drastically thinner wafers would significantly reduce the substrate-related costs. In addition to the technological challenges concerning wafering and handling of razor-thin flexible wafers, a major bottleneck is to maintain high absorption in those thin wafers. For the latter, advanced light-trapping techniques become of paramount importance. Here we demonstrate that by applying state-of-the-art black-Si nanotexture produced by DRIE on thin uncommitted wafers, the maximum theoretical absorption (Yablonovitch's 4n2 absorption limit), that is, ideal light trapping, is reached with wafer thicknesses as low as 40, 20, and 10 µm when paired with a back reflector. Due to the achieved promising optical properties the results are implemented into an actual thin interdigitated back contacted solar cell. The proof-of-concept cell, encapsulated in glass, achieved a 16.4% efficiency with an JSC  = 35 mA cm- 2 , representing a 43% improvement in output power with respect to the reference polished cell. These results demonstrate the vast potential of black silicon nanotexture in future extremely-thin silicon photovoltaics.

Differences between trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis and trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction for the treatment of trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The optimal management of trapeziometacarpal (TMC) osteoarthritis remains controversial. This meta-analysis assessed the subjective and objective outcomes of trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis (TMA) versus trapeziec-tomy with ligament reconstruction (LRTI). The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of science data-bases were searched from inception to June 30, 2022. Keywords included "trapeziometacarpal osteoarthrosis", "trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis" and "trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction". Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) including patients treated for TMC osteoarthritis were included. The subjective outcomes visual analogue scale (VAS) , Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), Disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores, Kapanji scores, objective outcomes total interphalangeal (IP) and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint motion, palmar abduction, grip strength, tip, key pinch strength and complications were extracted. The methodological quality of each was assessed in- dependently. Meta-analysis was performed for comparative trials. From the 5 included studies (2 RCTs, 3 CCTs), 208 cases were divided into TMA group (n = 107) and LRTI group (n =101) groups. Compared with the TMA group, PRWHE, tip pinch strength and palmar abduction was better in the LRTI group. There was no statistical difference in DASH score, VAS, kapandji score, grip strength, key pinch strength, total IP joint motion, total MCP joint motion and complications. The LRTI group had more obvious advantages in term of PRWHE, tip pinch strength and palmar abduction. Moreover, there was no statistical difference in DASH score, VAS, kapandji score, grip strength, key pinch strength, total IP joint and total MCP joint motion and complications. Therefore, we concluded LRTI was more recommendable for more management of TMC osteoarthritis. Certainly, high-quality studies are required in long-term follow-up.

Spatially multiplexed single-molecule translocations through a nanopore at controlled speeds

In current nanopore-based label-free single-molecule sensing technologies, stochastic processes influence the selection of translocating molecule, translocation rate and translocation velocity. As a result, single-molecule translocations are challenging to control both spatially and temporally. Here we present a method using a glass nanopore mounted on a three-dimensional nanopositioner to spatially select molecules, deterministically tethered on a glass surface, for controlled translocations. By controlling the distance between the nanopore and glass surface, we can actively select the region of interest on the molecule and scan it a controlled number of times and at a controlled velocity. Decreasing the velocity and averaging thousands of consecutive readings of the same molecule increases the signal-to-noise ratio by two orders of magnitude compared with free translocations. We demonstrate the method's versatility by assessing DNA-protein complexes, DNA rulers and DNA gaps, achieving down to single-nucleotide gap detection.

[The triglyceride glucose index predicts the risk of nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease in the Beijing community: a prospective cohort study]

Objective: To explore the characteristics of the association between the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease risk in a community population. Method: This was a prospective cohort study. From December 2011 to April 2012, the first investigation was conducted among subjects with more than 40-year old who were from Shijingshan district and Pingguoyuan community in Beijing. The second investigation was conducted from April to October 2015. All the subjects were divided into three groups according to the tertile of the TyG index at baseline. The multivariate Cox proportional risk regression model was established to explore the correlation between the TyG index and nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease risk and the Kaplan-Meier survival curve of the TyG index group was drawn. Subgroup analyses were performed according to age, gender, body mass index, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, and hyperlipidemia to determine the correlation characteristics between the TyG index and nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease among subgroups. Results: A total of 9 577 subjects were finally included to analyze. The mean follow-up time of this study was (34.14±3.84) months. During the follow-up, 363 subjects (3.8%) occurred nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease. The multivariate Cox regression analysis results showed that the hazard ratio (HR) of nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease in the high TyG index group was 1.54 (95%CI 1.19-1.98), 1.60 (95%CI 1.23-2.10), and 1.57 (95%CI 1.20-2.05) in the three models, compared with the low TyG index group. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the risk of nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease increased from the low-TyG index group to the high-TyG index group (P=0.015). In the six subgroups analysis, only gender was shown to have a significant interaction effect with the TyG index and nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease risk. In the female population, the risk of nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease is significantly increased with the increase in the TyG index level (P<0.001). Conclusions: A high TyG index is independently related to the increased risk of nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease in the Beijing community population. Gender has a significant interaction with the TyG index and nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease risk. Therefore, the TyG index may be a useful marker to predict the nonfatal cardio-cerebrovascular disease risk of a community population.

[Correlation analysis of anterior pituitary hormone and tumor size in patients with pituitary adenomas]

Objective: To summarize the correlation between anterior pituitary function and tumor size in patients with different hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas. Methods: This was a retrospective case series study. The clinical data of 1 946 patients with pituitary adenoma hospitalized in the First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2020, were collected. The correlation between tumor size and anterior pituitary hormone levels was analyzed using Spearman rank correlation analysis in different types of pituitary adenomas. Results: The median age of the 1 946 patients was 45.1 years, of which 857 (44.0%) were men. The maximum tumor diameter of the patients [M (Q₁, Q₃)] was 22 (14, 30) mm. Tumor size in nonfunctioning adenomas (n=1 191) was negatively correlated with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (r=-0.11, P<0.001), growth hormone (r=-0.13, P<0.001), and luteinizing hormone (men: r=-0.26, P<0.001, women: r=-0.31, all P<0.001). The tumor size of somatotropic adenomas (n=297) was positively correlated with growth hormone (r=0.46, P<0.001), but negatively correlated with male testosterone (r=-0.41, P<0.001). The tumor size of ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas (n=155) was positively correlated with the ACTH level at 8∶00 AM (r=0.25, P<0.001); however, no correlation was found with cortisol at 8∶00 AM (P>0.05). The tumor size of prolactinomas (n=303) was positively correlated with the prolactin level (men: r=0.34, P=0.001; women: r=0.13, P=0.070). Conclusions: The correlation between the function of the anterior pituitary and size of the tumor depends on the cellular origin of the pituitary adenoma and specific type of hormone secretion. In somatotroph adenomas, ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas, and prolactinomas, there is a positive correlation between tumor size and level of hormones secreted by the corresponding tumors. In patients with nonfunctioning adenomas, the tumor size was negatively correlated with the hormone levels of the pituitary-adrenal and pituitary-growth hormone axes.

Early hyperlipidemia triggers metabolomic reprogramming with increased SAH, increased acetyl-CoA-cholesterol synthesis, and decreased glycolysis

To identify metabolomic reprogramming in early hyperlipidemia, unbiased metabolome was screened in four tissues from ApoE-/- mice fed with high fat diet (HFD) for 3 weeks. 30, 122, 67, and 97 metabolites in the aorta, heart, liver, and plasma, respectively, were upregulated. 9 upregulated metabolites were uremic toxins, and 13 metabolites, including palmitate, promoted a trained immunity with increased syntheses of acetyl-CoA and cholesterol, increased S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) and hypomethylation and decreased glycolysis. The cross-omics analysis found upregulation of 11 metabolite synthetases in ApoE‾/‾ aorta, which promote ROS, cholesterol biosynthesis, and inflammation. Statistical correlation of 12 upregulated metabolites with 37 gene upregulations in ApoE‾/‾ aorta indicated 9 upregulated new metabolites to be proatherogenic. Antioxidant transcription factor NRF2-/- transcriptome analysis indicated that NRF2 suppresses trained immunity-metabolomic reprogramming. Our results have provided novel insights on metabolomic reprogramming in multiple tissues in early hyperlipidemia oriented toward three co-existed new types of trained immunity.

mt-Ty 5'tiRNA regulates skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation

In this study, we sought to determine the role of tRNA-derived fragments in the regulation of gene expression during skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation. We employed cell culture to examine the function of mt-Ty 5' tiRNAs. Northern blotting, RT-PCR as well as RNA-Seq, were performed to determine the effects of mt-Ty 5' tiRNA loss and gain on gene expression. Standard and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize cell and sub-cellular structures. mt-Ty 5'tiRNAs were found to be enriched in mouse skeletal muscle, showing increased levels in later developmental stages. Gapmer-mediated inhibition of tiRNAs in skeletal muscle C2C12 myoblasts resulted in decreased cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation; consistent with this observation, RNA-Seq, transcriptome analyses, and RT-PCR revealed that skeletal muscle cell differentiation and cell proliferation pathways were also downregulated. Conversely, overexpression of mt-Ty 5'tiRNAs in C2C12 cells led to a reversal of these transcriptional trends. These data reveal that mt-Ty 5'tiRNAs are enriched in skeletal muscle and play an important role in myoblast proliferation and differentiation. Our study also highlights the potential for the development of tiRNAs as novel therapeutic targets for muscle-related diseases.

Comprehensive analysis of intercellular communication in the thermogenic adipose niche

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is responsible for regulating body temperature through adaptive thermogenesis. The ability of thermogenic adipocytes to dissipate chemical energy as heat counteracts weight gain and has gained considerable attention as a strategy against obesity. BAT undergoes major remodeling in a cold environment. This remodeling results from changes in the number and function of brown adipocytes, expanding the network of blood vessels and sympathetic nerves, and changes in the composition and function of immune cells. Such synergistic adaptation requires extensive crosstalk between individual cells in the tissue to coordinate their responses. To understand the mechanisms of intercellular communication in BAT, we apply the CellChat algorithm to single-cell transcriptomic data of mouse BAT. We construct an integrative network of the ligand-receptor interactome in BAT and identify the major signaling inputs and outputs of each cell type. By comparing the ligand-receptor interactions in BAT of mice housed at different environmental temperatures, we show that cold exposure enhances the intercellular interactions among the major cell types in BAT, including adipocytes, adipocyte progenitors, lymphatic and vascular endothelial cells, myelinated and non-myelinated Schwann cells, and immune cells. These interactions are predicted to regulate the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, the inflammatory response, angiogenesis, and neurite growth. Together, our integrative analysis of intercellular communications in BAT and their dynamic regulation in response to housing temperatures provides a new understanding of the mechanisms underlying BAT thermogenesis. The resources presented in this study offer a valuable platform for future investigations of BAT development and thermogenesis.

Low RNA stability signifies increased post-transcriptional regulation of cell identity genes

Cell identity genes are distinct from other genes with respect to the epigenetic mechanisms to activate their transcription, e.g. by super-enhancers and broad H3K4me3 domains. However, it remains unclear whether their post-transcriptional regulation is also unique. We performed a systematic analysis of transcriptome-wide RNA stability in nine cell types and found that unstable transcripts were enriched in cell identity-related pathways while stable transcripts were enriched in housekeeping pathways. Joint analyses of RNA stability and chromatin state revealed significant enrichment of super-enhancers and broad H3K4me3 domains at the gene loci of unstable transcripts. Intriguingly, the RNA m6A methyltransferase, METTL3, preferentially binds to chromatin at super-enhancers, broad H3K4me3 domains and their associated genes. METTL3 binding intensity is positively correlated with RNA m6A methylation and negatively correlated with RNA stability of cell identity genes, probably due to co-transcriptional m6A modifications promoting RNA decay. Nanopore direct RNA-sequencing showed that METTL3 knockdown has a stronger effect on RNA m6A and mRNA stability for cell identity genes. Our data suggest a run-and-brake model, where cell identity genes undergo both frequent transcription and fast RNA decay to achieve precise regulation of RNA expression.

Dynamic changes in P300 enhancers and enhancer-promoter contacts control mouse cardiomyocyte maturation

Cardiomyocyte differentiation continues throughout murine gestation and into the postnatal period, driven by temporally regulated expression changes in the transcriptome. The mechanisms that regulate these developmental changes remain incompletely defined. Here, we used cardiomyocyte-specific ChIP-seq of the activate enhancer marker P300 to identify 54,920 cardiomyocyte enhancers at seven stages of murine heart development. These data were matched to cardiomyocyte gene expression profiles at the same stages and to Hi-C and H3K27ac HiChIP chromatin conformation data at fetal, neonatal, and adult stages. Regions with dynamic P300 occupancy exhibited developmentally regulated enhancer activity, as measured by massively parallel reporter assays in cardiomyocytes in vivo, and identified key transcription factor-binding motifs. These dynamic enhancers interacted with temporal changes of the 3D genome architecture to specify developmentally regulated cardiomyocyte gene expressions. Our work provides a 3D genome-mediated enhancer activity landscape of murine cardiomyocyte development.

CD45 Is Sufficient to Initiate Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Endothelial Cells-Brief Report

BACKGROUND

Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a dynamic process in which endothelial cells acquire mesenchymal properties and in turn contribute to tissue remodeling and growth. Previously, we found EndMT associated with mitral valve adaptation after myocardial infarction. Furthermore, mitral valve endothelial cells collected at 6 months post-myocardial infarction expressed the pan-leukocyte marker CD45 and EndMT markers. Additionally, mitral valve endothelial cells induced to undergo EndMT with TGF (transforming growth factor)-β1 strongly coexpressed CD45 but not CD11b or CD14. Pharmacologic inhibition of the CD45 PTPase (protein tyrosine phosphatase) domain in mitral valve endothelial cells blocked TGFβ-induced EndMT. This prompted us to speculate that, downstream of TGFβ, CD45 induces EndMT.

METHODS

We activated the endogenous CD45 promoter in human endothelial colony forming cells (ECFCs) using CRISPR (cluster regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/inactive Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) transcriptional activation. Bulk RNA sequencing was performed on control ECFCs and CD45-positive ECFCs to identify transcriptomic changes. Three functional assays-cellular migration, collagen gel contraction, and transendothelial electrical resistance-were conducted to assess mesenchymal properties in CD45-positive ECFCs.

RESULTS

Activation of the endogenous CD45 promoter in ECFC and 3 additional sources of endothelial cells induced expression of several genes implicated in EndMT. In addition, CD45-positive ECFCs showed increased migration, a hallmark of EndMT, increased collagen gel contraction, a hallmark of mesenchymal cells, and decreased cell-cell barrier integrity, indicating reduced endothelial function.

CONCLUSIONS

CD45 is sufficient to incite an EndMT phenotype and acquisition of mesenchymal cell properties in normal human ECFCs. We speculate that CD45, through its C-terminal PTPase domain, initiates signaling events that drive EndMT.

Epigenetic landscape reveals MECOM as an endothelial lineage regulator

A comprehensive understanding of endothelial cell lineage specification will advance cardiovascular regenerative medicine. Recent studies found that unique epigenetic signatures preferentially regulate cell identity genes. We thus systematically investigate the epigenetic landscape of endothelial cell lineage and identify MECOM to be the leading candidate as an endothelial cell lineage regulator. Single-cell RNA-Seq analysis verifies that MECOM-positive cells are exclusively enriched in the cell cluster of bona fide endothelial cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. Our experiments demonstrate that MECOM depletion impairs human endothelial cell differentiation, functions, and Zebrafish angiogenesis. Through integrative analysis of Hi-C, DNase-Seq, ChIP-Seq, and RNA-Seq data, we find MECOM binds enhancers that form chromatin loops to regulate endothelial cell identity genes. Further, we identify and verify the VEGF signaling pathway to be a key target of MECOM. Our work provides important insights into epigenetic regulation of cell identity and uncovered MECOM as an endothelial cell lineage regulator.

Functions and interaction of plant lipid signalling under abiotic stresses

Lipids are the primary form of energy storage and a major component of plasma membranes, which form the interface between the cell and the extracellular environment. Several lipids - including phosphoinositide, phosphatidic acid, sphingolipids, lysophospholipids, oxylipins, and free fatty acids - also serve as substrates for the generation of signalling molecules. Abiotic stresses, such as drought and temperature stress, are known to affect plant growth. In addition, abiotic stresses can activate certain lipid-dependent signalling pathways that control the expression of stress-responsive genes and contribute to plant stress adaptation. Many studies have focused either on the enzymatic production and metabolism of lipids, or on the mechanisms of abiotic stress response. However, there is little information regarding the roles of plant lipids in plant responses to abiotic stress. In this review, we describe the metabolism of plant lipids and discuss their involvement in plant responses to abiotic stress. As such, this review provides crucial background for further research on the interactions between plant lipids and abiotic stress.

[Cross-sectional associations between reproductive lifespan duration and urinary albumin-creatinine ratio]

Objective: To investigate the association between reproductive lifespan duration (RLD) and urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR) in a Chinese postmenopausal population. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 11 055 naturally postmenopausal women from seven regions of China from May to December 2011. RLD was divided into four groups. Propensity score matching was performed to reduce bias, and logistic regressions and stratifications were conducted to investigate the association between RLD and increased UACR (≥30 mg/g). Mediation effect analysis was performed to quantify the effect of RLD on cardiovascular disease (CVD) induced by elevated UACR. Results: There were 2 373 participants with a RLD of 18-31 years, 2 888 participants with a RLD of 32-34 years, 2 472 participants with a RLD of 35-36 years, and 3 322 participants with a RLD of 37-50 years. The shortest RLD (18-31 years) group was characterized with older age (P<0.001), a higher incidence of CVD (P=0.025), and the highest level of UACR (P<0.001). After adjusting for confounders, women with a longer RLD (37-50 years group) exhibited a lower risk of UACR elevation compared with those with the shortest RLD (18-31 years group) (OR=0.72, 95%CI 0.64-0.82, P<0.001). Every 1-year extension in RLD was linked to a 2% reduction in the risk of UACR elevation (OR=0.98, 95%CI 0.97-0.99, P<0.001). Stratified analysis revealed a more significant association between RLD and UACR in women who were a normal weight (P=0.003) or overweight (P=0.001), in those without CVD history (P=0.001), and in those with impaired estimated glomerular filtration rate (P=0.004). The mediation casual analysis showed that 3.0% of proteinuria inducing CVD events was mediated by RLD (P=0.048). Conclusion: A longer RLD (37-50 years) is associated with a lower UACR in Chinese postmenopausal women.

Targeting Epsins to Inhibit Fibroblast Growth Factor Signaling While Potentiating Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling Constrains Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Epsin endocytic adaptor proteins are implicated in the progression of atherosclerosis; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms have not yet been fully defined. In this study, we determined how epsins enhance endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in atherosclerosis and assessed the efficacy of a therapeutic peptide in a preclinical model of this disease.

METHODS

Using single-cell RNA sequencing combined with molecular, cellular, and biochemical analyses, we investigated the role of epsins in stimulating EndoMT using knockout in Apoe-/- and lineage tracing/proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 serine protease mutant viral-induced atherosclerotic mouse models. The therapeutic efficacy of a synthetic peptide targeting atherosclerotic plaques was then assessed in Apoe-/- mice.

RESULTS

Single-cell RNA sequencing and lineage tracing revealed that epsins 1 and 2 promote EndoMT and that the loss of endothelial epsins inhibits EndoMT marker expression and transforming growth factor-β signaling in vitro and in atherosclerotic mice, which is associated with smaller lesions in the Apoe-/- mouse model. Mechanistically, the loss of endothelial cell epsins results in increased fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 expression, which inhibits transforming growth factor-β signaling and EndoMT. Epsins directly bind ubiquitinated fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 through their ubiquitin-interacting motif, which results in endocytosis and degradation of this receptor complex. Consequently, administration of a synthetic ubiquitin-interacting motif-containing peptide atheroma ubiquitin-interacting motif peptide inhibitor significantly attenuates EndoMT and progression of atherosclerosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that epsins potentiate EndoMT during atherogenesis by increasing transforming growth factor-β signaling through fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 internalization and degradation. Inhibition of EndoMT by reducing epsin-fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 interaction with a therapeutic peptide may represent a novel treatment strategy for atherosclerosis.

Hypomorphic RAG deficiency: impact of disease burden on survival and thymic recovery argues for early diagnosis and HSCT

Patients with hypomorphic mutations in the RAG1 or RAG2 gene present with either Omenn syndrome or atypical combined immunodeficiency with a wide phenotypic range. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is potentially curative, but data are scarce. We report on a worldwide cohort of 60 patients with hypomorphic RAG variants who underwent HSCT, 78% of whom experienced infections (29% active at HSCT), 72% had autoimmunity, and 18% had granulomas pretransplant. These complications are frequently associated with organ damage. Eight individuals (13%) were diagnosed by newborn screening or family history. HSCT was performed at a median of 3.4 years (range 0.3-42.9 years) from matched unrelated donors, matched sibling or matched family donors, or mismatched donors in 48%, 22%, and 30% of the patients, respectively. Grafts were T-cell depleted in 15 cases (25%). Overall survival at 1 and 4 years was 77.5% and 67.5% (median follow-up of 39 months). Infection was the main cause of death. In univariable analysis, active infection, organ damage pre-HSCT, T-cell depletion of the graft, and transplant from a mismatched family donor were predictive of worse outcome, whereas organ damage and T-cell depletion remained significant in multivariable analysis (hazard ratio [HR] = 6.01, HR = 8.46, respectively). All patients diagnosed by newborn screening or family history survived. Cumulative incidences of acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease were 35% and 22%, respectively. Cumulative incidences of new-onset autoimmunity was 15%. Immune reconstitution, particularly recovery of naïve CD4+ T cells, was faster and more robust in patients transplanted before 3.5 years of age, and without organ damage. These findings support the indication for early transplantation.

Traditional Chinese medicine in thyroid-associated orbitopathy

PURPOSE

Orbital fibroblasts (OF) are considered the central target cells in the pathogenesis of thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO), which comprises orbital inflammation, orbital tissue edema, adipogenesis, fibrosis, oxidative stress and autophagy. Certain active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) demonstrated inhibition of TAO-OF in pre-clinical studies and they could be translated into novel therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

The pertinent and current literature of pre-clinical studies on TAO investigating the effects of active ingredients of TCM was reviewed using the NCBI PubMed database.

RESULTS

Eleven TCM compounds demonstrated inhibition of TAO-OF in-vitro and three of them (polydatin, curcumin, and gypenosides) resulted in improvement in TAO mouse models. Tanshinone IIA reduced inflammation, oxidative stress and adipogenesis. Both resveratrol and its precursor polydatin displayed anti-oxidative and anti-adipogenic properties. Celastrol inhibited inflammation and triptolide prevented TAO-OF activation, while icariin inhibited autophagy and adipogenesis. Astragaloside IV reduced inflammation via suppressing autophagy and inhibited fat accumulation as well as collagen deposition. Curcumin displayed multiple actions, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-adipogenic, anti-fibrotic and anti-angiogenic effects via multiple signaling pathways. Gypenosides reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, tissue fibrosis, as well as oxidative stress mediated autophagy and apoptosis. Dihydroartemisinin inhibited OF proliferation, inflammation, hyaluronan (HA) production, and fibrosis. Berberine attenuated inflammation, HA production, adipogenesis, and fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical trials of different phases with adequate power and sound methodology will be warranted to evaluate the appropriate dosage, safety and efficacy of these compounds in the management of TAO.

Evidence of the Anomalous Fluctuating Magnetic State by Pressure-Driven 4f Valence Change in EuNiGe3

In rare-earth compounds with valence fluctuation, the proximity of the 4f level to the Fermi energy leads to instabilities of the charge configuration and the magnetic moment. Here, we provide direct experimental evidence for an induced magnetic polarization of the Eu³⁺ atomic shell with J = 0, due to intra-atomic exchange and spin-orbital coupling interactions with the Eu²⁺ atomic shell. By applying external pressure, a transition from antiferromagnetic to a fluctuating behavior in EuNiGe₃ single crystals is probed. Magnetic polarization is observed for both valence states of Eu²⁺ and Eu³⁺ across the entire pressure range. The anomalous magnetism is discussed in terms of a homogeneous intermediate valence state where frustrated Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya couplings are enhanced by the onset of spin-orbital interaction and engender a chiral spin-liquid-like precursor.

Epsin Nanotherapy Regulates Cholesterol Transport to Fortify Atheroma Regression

BACKGROUND

Excess cholesterol accumulation in lesional macrophages elicits complex responses in atherosclerosis. Epsins, a family of endocytic adaptors, fuel the progression of atherosclerosis; however, the underlying mechanism and therapeutic potential of targeting Epsins remains unknown. In this study, we determined the role of Epsins in macrophage-mediated metabolic regulation. We then developed an innovative method to therapeutically target macrophage Epsins with specially designed S2P-conjugated lipid nanoparticles, which encapsulate small-interfering RNAs to suppress Epsins.

METHODS

We used single-cell RNA sequencing with our newly developed algorithm MEBOCOST (Metabolite-mediated Cell Communication Modeling by Single Cell Transcriptome) to study cell-cell communications mediated by metabolites from sender cells and sensor proteins on receiver cells. Biomedical, cellular, and molecular approaches were utilized to investigate the role of macrophage Epsins in regulating lipid metabolism and transport. We performed this study using myeloid-specific Epsin double knockout (LysM-DKO) mice and mice with a genetic reduction of ABCG1 (ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1; LysM-DKO-ABCG1fl/+). The nanoparticles targeting lesional macrophages were developed to encapsulate interfering RNAs to treat atherosclerosis.

RESULTS

We revealed that Epsins regulate lipid metabolism and transport in atherosclerotic macrophages. Inhibiting Epsins by nanotherapy halts inflammation and accelerates atheroma resolution. Harnessing lesional macrophage-specific nanoparticle delivery of Epsin small-interfering RNAs, we showed that silencing of macrophage Epsins diminished atherosclerotic plaque size and promoted plaque regression. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that Epsins bound to CD36 to facilitate lipid uptake by enhancing CD36 endocytosis and recycling. Conversely, Epsins promoted ABCG1 degradation via lysosomes and hampered ABCG1-mediated cholesterol efflux and reverse cholesterol transport. In a LysM-DKO-ABCG1fl/+ mouse model, enhanced cholesterol efflux and reverse transport due to Epsin deficiency was suppressed by the reduction of ABCG1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that targeting Epsins in lesional macrophages may offer therapeutic benefits for advanced atherosclerosis by reducing CD36-mediated lipid uptake and increasing ABCG1-mediated cholesterol efflux.

Promoting Lymphangiogenesis and Lymphatic Growth and Remodeling to Treat Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases

Lymphatic vessels are low-pressure, blind-ended tubular structures that play a crucial role in the maintenance of tissue fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking, and dietary lipid uptake and transport. Emerging research has indicated that the promotion of lymphatic vascular growth, remodeling, and function can reduce inflammation and diminish disease severity in several pathophysiologic conditions. In particular, recent groundbreaking studies have shown that lymphangiogenesis, which describes the formation of new lymphatic vessels from the existing lymphatic vasculature, can be beneficial for the alleviation and resolution of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, promoting lymphangiogenesis represents a promising therapeutic approach. This brief review summarizes the most recent findings related to the modulation of lymphatic function to treat metabolic and cardiovascular diseases such as obesity, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. We also discuss experimental and therapeutic approaches to enforce lymphatic growth and remodeling as well as efforts to define the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these processes.

Copy number variations in SPAST and ATL1 are rare among Brazilians

Copy number variations (CNV) may represent a significant proportion of SPG4 and SPG3A diagnosis, the most frequent autosomal dominant subtypes of hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP). We aimed to assess the frequency of CNVs in SPAST and ATL1 and to update the molecular epidemiology of HSP families in southern Brazil. A cohort study that included 95 Brazilian index cases with clinical suspicion of HSP was conducted between April 2011 and September 2022. Multiplex Ligation Dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) was performed in 41 cases without defined diagnosis by different massive parallel sequencing techniques (MPS). Diagnosis was obtained in 57/95 (60%) index cases, 15/57 (26.3%) being SPG4. Most frequent autosomal recessive HSP subtypes were SPG7 followed by SPG11, SPG76 and cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. No CNVs in SPAST and ATL1 were found. Copy number variations are rare among SPG4 and SPG3A families in Brazil. Considering the possibility of CNVs detection by specific algorithms with MPS data, we consider that this is likely the most cost-effective approach to investigate CNVs in these genes in low-risk populations, with MLPA being reserved as an orthogonal confirmatory test.

StripeDiff: Model-based algorithm for differential analysis of chromatin stripe

Multiple recent studies revealed stripes as an architectural feature of three-dimensional chromatin and found stripes connected to epigenetic regulation of transcription. Whereas a couple of tools are available to define stripes in a single sample, there is yet no reported method to quantitatively measure the dynamic change of each stripe between samples. Here, we developed StripeDiff, a bioinformatics tool that delivers a set of statistical methods to detect differential stripes between samples. StripeDiff showed optimal performance in both simulation data analysis and real Hi-C data analysis. Applying StripeDiff to 12 sets of Hi-C data revealed new insights into the connection between change of chromatin stripe and change of chromatin modification, transcriptional regulation, and cell differentiation. StripeDiff will be a robust tool for the community to facilitate understanding of stripes and their function in numerous biological models.

[Effects of vaccines on the viral negative conversion of children with COVID-19]

Objective: To explore the effect of vaccination on viral negative conversion of children with COVID-19. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted. A cohort of 189 children aged 3-14 years with COVID-19 admitted to Renji Hospital (South branch) of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from April 7^th to May 19^th 2022 was enrolled in the study. According to the vaccination status, the infected children were divided into an unvaccinated group and a vaccinated group. Age, gender, severity, clinical manifestations, and laboratory tests, etc. were compared between groups, by rank sum test or chi-square test. The effects of vaccination on viral negative conversion were analyzed by a Cox mixed-effects regression model. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was conducted among the parents of unvaccinated children to analyze the reasons for not being vaccinated. Results: A total of 189 children aged 3-14 years were enrolled, including 95 males (50.3%) and 94 females (49.7%), aged 5.7 (4.1,8.6) years. There were 117 cases (61.9%) in the unvaccinated group and 72 cases (38.1%) in the vaccinated group. The age of the vaccinated group was higher than that of the unvaccinated group (8.8 (6.8, 10.6) vs. 4.5 (3.6, 5.9) years, Z=9.45, P<0.001). No significant differences were found in clinical manifestations, disease severity, and laboratory results between groups (all P>0.05), except for the occurrence rate of cough symptoms, which was significantly higher in the vaccinated group than in the non-vaccinated group (68.1% (49/72) vs. 50.4% (59/117),χ²=5.67, P=0.017). The Kaplan-Meier survival curve and Cox mixed-effects regression model showed that the time to the viral negative conversion was significantly shorter in the vaccinated group compared with the unvaccinated group (8 (7, 10) vs. 11 (9, 12) d, Z=5.20, P<0.001; adjusted HR=2.19 (95%CI 1.62-2.97)). For questionnaire survey on the reasons for not receiving a vaccination, 115 questionnaires were distributed and 112 valid questionnaires (97.4%) were collected. The main reasons for not being vaccinated were that parents thought that their children were not in the range of appropriate age for vaccination (51 cases, 45.5%) and children were in special physical conditions (47 cases, 42.0%). Conclusion: Vaccination can effectively shorten the negative conversion time of children with COVID-19 and targeted programs should be developed to increase eligible children's vaccination rate for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.