[The influence of knocking down the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor associated proteins on the vascular abnormalities in hepatocellular carcinoma and its mechanisms]

Objectives: To investigate the effect of the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor associated protein (LDLR) on the vascular abnormalities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its mechanisms. Methods: Based on the information of Oncomine Cancer GeneChip database, we analyzed the correlation between the expression level of LDLR and the expression level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CD31 in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues. Lentiviral transfection of short hairpin RNA target genes was used to construct LDLR-knockdown MHCC-97H and HLE hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The differential genes and their expression level changes in LDLR-knockdown hepatocellular carcinoma cells were detected by transcriptome sequencing, real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and protein immunoblotting. The gene-related signaling pathways that involve LDLR were clarified by enrichment analysis. The effect of LDLR on CEA was assessed by the detection of CEA content in conditioned medium of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Angiogenesis assay was used to detect the effect of LDLR on the angiogenic capacity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, as well as the role of CEA in the regulation of angiogenesis by LDLR. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expression levels of LDLR in 176 hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, and CEA and CD31 in 146 hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, and analyze the correlations between the expression levels of LDLR, CEA, and CD31 in the tissues, serum CEA, and alanine transaminase (ALT). Results: Oncomine database analysis showed that the expressions of LDLR and CEA in the tissues of hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal vein metastasis were negatively correlated (r=-0.64, P=0.001), whereas the expressions of CEA and CD31 in these tissues were positively correlated ( r=0.46, P=0.010). The transcriptome sequencing results showed that there were a total of 1 032 differentially expressed genes in the LDLR-knockdown group and the control group of MHCC-97H cells, of which 517 genes were up-regulated and 515 genes were down-regulated. The transcript expression level of CEACAM5 was significantly up-regulated in the cells of the LDLR-knockdown group. The Gene Ontology (GO) function enrichment analysis showed that the differential genes were most obviously enriched in the angiogenesis function. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway enrichment analysis showed that the relevant pathways involved mainly included the cellular adhesion patch, the extracellular matrix receptor interactions, and the interactions with the extracellular matrix receptors. The CEA content in the conditioned medium of the LDLR-knockdown group was 43.75±8.43, which was higher than that of the control group (1.15±0.14, P＜0.001). The results of angiogenesis experiments showed that at 5 h, the number of main junctions, the number of main segments, and the total area of the lattice formed by HUVEC cells cultured with the conditioned medium of MHCC-97H cells in the LDLR-knockdown group were 295.3±26.4, 552.5±63.8, and 2 239 781.0±13 8211.9 square pixels, which were higher than those of the control group (113.3±23.5, 194.8±36.5, and 660 621.0±280 328.3 square pixels, respectively, all P＜0.01).The number of vascular major junctions, the number of major segments, and the total area of the lattice formed by HUVEC cells cultured in conditioned medium with HLE cells in the LDLR-knockdown group were 245.3±42.4, 257.5±20.4, and 2 535 754.5±249 094.2 square pixels, respectively, which were all higher than those of the control group (113.3±23.5, 114.3±12.2, and 1 565 456.5±219 259.7 square pixels, respectively, all P＜0.01). In the conditioned medium for the control group of MHCC-97H cells,the number of main junctions, the number of main segments, and the total area of the lattice formed by the addition of CEA to cultured HUVEC cells were 178.9±12.0, 286.9±12.3, and 1 966 990.0±126 249.5 spixels, which were higher than those in the control group (119.7±22.1, 202.7±33.7, and 1 421 191.0±189 837.8 square pixels, respectively). The expression of LDLR in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues was not correlated with the expression of CEA, but was negatively correlated with the expression of CD31 (r=-0.167, P=0.044), the level of serum CEA (r=-0.061, P=0.032), and the level of serum ALT(r=-0.147,P=0.05). The expression of CEA in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues was positively correlated with the expression of CD31 (r=0.192, P=0.020). The level of serum CEA was positively correlated with the level of serum ALT (r=0.164, P=0.029). Conclusion: Knocking down LDLR can promote vascular abnormalities in HCC by releasing CEA.

Generation of chimeric antigen receptor macrophages from human pluripotent stem cells to target glioblastoma

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor giving a poor prognosis with the current treatment options. The advent of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy revolutionized the field of immunotherapy and has provided a new set of therapeutic options for refractory blood cancers. In an effort to apply this therapeutic approach to solid tumors, various immune cell types and CAR constructs are being studied. Notably, macrophages have recently emerged as potential candidates for targeting solid tumors, attributed to their inherent tumor-infiltrating capacity and abundant presence in the tumor microenvironment.

Materials and methods

In this study, we developed a chemically defined differentiation protocol to generate macrophages from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). A GBM-specific CAR was genetically incorporated into hPSCs to generate CAR hPSC-derived macrophages.

Results

The CAR hPSC-derived macrophages exhibited potent anticancer activity against GBM cells in vitro.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of generating functional CAR-macrophages from hPSCs for adoptive immunotherapy, thereby opening new avenues for the treatment of solid tumors, particularly GBM.

Gene network analyses of Sepia esculenta larvae exposed to copper and cadmium: A comprehensive investigation of oxidative stress, immune response, and toxicological mechanisms

Copper (Cu) and Cadmium (Cd), prevalent heavy metals in marine environments, have known implications in oxidative stress, immune response, and toxicity in marine organisms. Sepia esculenta, a cephalopod of significant economic value along China's eastern coastline, experiences alterations in growth, mobility, and reproduction when subjected to these heavy metals. However, the specific mechanisms resulting from heavy metal exposure in S. esculenta remain largely uncharted. In this study, we utilized transcriptome and four oxidative, immunity, and toxicity indicators to assess the toxicological mechanism in S. esculenta larvae exposed to Cu and Cd. The measurements of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione S-Transferase (GST), and Metallothioneins (MTs) revealed that Cu and Cd trigger substantial oxidative stress, immune response, and metal toxicity. Further, we performed an analysis on the transcriptome data through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network analysis. Our findings indicate that exposure methods and duration influence the type and the extent of toxicity and oxidative stress within the S. esculenta larvae. We took an innovative approach in this research by integrating WGCNA and PPI network analysis with four significant physiological indicators to closely examine the toxicity and oxidative stress profiles of S. esculenta upon exposure to Cu and Cd. This investigation is vital in decoding the toxicological, immunological, and oxidative stress mechanisms within S. esculenta when subjected to heavy metals. It provides foundational insights capable of advancing invertebrate environmental toxicology and informs S. esculenta artificial breeding practices.

TFP5, a Peptide Derived from Cdk5 Activator p35, Protects Pancreatic β Cells from Glucose Toxicity

We studied the effect of TFP5 on MIN6 cells (cultured mouse islet β cells) treated with different concentrations of glucose (5 or 25 mM). The results were verified in C57BL/6J mice (control; n=12) and db/db mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus (n=12). To synthesize TFP5, peptide p5 (a derivative of p35 protein, activator of cyclin-dependent kinase 5, Cdk5) was conjugated with a FITC tag at the N-terminus and an 11-amino acid TAT protein transduction domain at the C-terminus. TFP5 was employed to inhibit Cdk5 activity and then to evaluate its efficiency in treating experimental type 2 diabetes mellitus. TFP5 effectively inhibited the pathological hyperactivity of Cdk5, enhanced insulin secretion, and protected pancreatic β cells from apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. In addition, TFP5 inhibited inflammation in pancreatic islets by reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines TGF-β1, TNFα, and IL-1β. These novel data indicates that TFP5 is a promising candidate for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

A Nomogram for Predicting Progression-free Survival in Patients with Endometrial Cancer

AIMS

Endometrial cancer is one of the most widely known gynaecological malignancies that lacks a prognostic prediction model. This study aimed to develop a nomogram to predict progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with endometrial cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information for endometrial cancer patients diagnosed and treated from 1 January 2005 to 30 June 2018 was collected. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis were carried out to determine the independent risk factors and a nomogram was constructed by R based on analytical factors. Internal and external validation were then carried out to predict the probability of 3- and 5-year PFS.

RESULTS

In total, 1020 patients with endometrial cancer were included in the study and the relationship between 25 factors and prognosis was analysed. Postmenopause (hazard ratio = 2.476, 95% confidence interval 1.023-5.994), lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio = 6.242, 95% confidence interval 2.815-13.843), lymphovascular space invasion (hazard ratio = 4.263, 95% confidence interval 1.802-10.087), histological type (hazard ratio = 2.713, 95% confidence interval 1.374-5.356), histological differentiation (hazard ratio = 2.601, 95% confidence interval 1.141-5.927) and parametrial involvement (hazard ratio = 3.596, 95% confidence interval 1.622-7.973) were found to be independent prognostic risk factors; these factors were selected to establish a nomogram. The consistency index for 3-year PFS were 0.88 (95% confidence interval 0.81-0.95) in the training cohort and 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.87-0.99) in the verification set. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the 3- and 5-year PFS predictions are 0.891 and 0.842 in the training set; the same conclusion also appeared in the verification set [0.835 (3-year), 0.803(5-year)].

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a prognostic nomogram for endometrial cancer that provides a more individualised and accurate estimation of PFS for patients, which will help physicians make follow-up strategies and risk stratification.

Preliminary study on toxicological mechanism of golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta) larvae exposed to cd

BACKGROUND

Cadmium (Cd) flows into the ocean with industrial and agricultural pollution and significantly affects the growth and development of economic cephalopods such as Sepia esculenta, Amphioctopus fangsiao, and Loligo japonica. As of now, the reasons why Cd affects the growth and development of S. esculenta are not yet clear.

RESULTS

In this study, transcriptome and four oxidation and toxicity indicators are used to analyze the toxicological mechanism of Cd-exposed S. esculenta larvae. Indicator results indicate that Cd induces oxidative stress and metal toxicity. Functional enrichment analysis results suggest that larval ion transport, cell adhesion, and some digestion and absorption processes are inhibited, and the cell function is damaged. Comprehensive analysis of protein-protein interaction network and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis was used to explore S. esculenta larval toxicological mechanisms, and we find that among the 20 identified key genes, 14 genes are associated with neurotoxicity. Most of them are down-regulated and enriched to the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction signaling pathway, suggesting that larval nervous system might be destroyed, and the growth, development, and movement process are significantly affected after Cd exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

S. esculenta larvae suffered severe oxidative damage after Cd exposure, which may inhibit digestion and absorption functions, and disrupt the stability of the nervous system. Our results lay a function for understanding larval toxicological mechanisms exposed to heavy metals, promoting the development of invertebrate environmental toxicology, and providing theoretical support for S. esculenta artificial culture.

Transcriptome Profiling Based at Different Time Points after Hatching Deepened Our Understanding on Larval Growth and Development of Amphioctopus fangsiao

As the quality of life improves, there is an increasing demand for nutrition-rich marine organisms like fish, shellfish, and cephalopods. To address this, artificial cultivation of these organisms is being explored along with ongoing research on their growth and development. A case in point is Amphioctopus fangsiao, a highly valued cephalopod known for its tasty meat, nutrient richness, and rapid growth rate. Despite its significance, there is a dearth of studies on the A. fangsiao growth mechanism, particularly of its larvae. In this study, we collected A. fangsiao larvae at 0, 4, 12, and 24 h post-hatching and conducted transcriptome profiling. Our analysis identified 4467, 5099, and 4181 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at respective intervals, compared to the 0 h sample. We further analyzed the expression trends of these DEGs, noting a predominant trend of continuous upregulation. Functional exploration of this trend entailed GO and KEGG functional enrichment along with protein-protein interaction network analyses. We identified GLDC, DUSP14, DPF2, GNAI1, and ZNF271 as core genes, based on their high upregulation rate, implicated in larval growth and development. Similarly, CLTC, MEF2A, PPP1CB, PPP1R12A, and TJP1, marked by high protein interaction numbers, were identified as hub genes and the gene expression levels identified via RNA-seq analysis were validated through qRT-PCR. By analyzing the functions of key and core genes, we found that the ability of A. fangsiao larvae to metabolize carbohydrates, lipids, and other energy substances during early growth may significantly improve with the growth of the larvae. At the same time, muscle related cells in A. fangsiao larvae may develop rapidly, promoting the growth and development of larvae. Our findings provide preliminary insights into the growth and developmental mechanism of A. fangsiao, setting the stage for more comprehensive understanding and broader research into cephalopod growth and development mechanisms.

Investigation of Gene Networks in Three Components of Immune System Provides Novel Insights into Immune Response Mechanisms against Edwardsiella tarda Infection in Paralichthys olivaceus

As a quintessential marine teleost, Paralichthys olivaceus demonstrates vulnerability to a range of pathogens. Long-term infection with Edwardsiella tarda significantly inhibits fish growth and even induces death. Gills, blood, and kidneys, pivotal components of the immune system in teleosts, elicit vital regulatory roles in immune response processes including immune cell differentiation, diseased cell clearance, and other immunity-related mechanisms. This study entailed infecting P. olivaceus with E. tarda for 48 h and examining transcriptome data from the three components at 0, 8, and 48 h post-infection employing weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Network analyses revealed a series of immune response processes after infection and identified multiple key modules and key, core, and hub genes including xpo1, src, tlr13, stat1, and mefv. By innovatively amalgamating WGCNA and PPI network methodologies, our investigation facilitated an in-depth examination of immune response mechanisms within three significant P. olivaceus components post-E. tarda infection. Our results provided valuable genetic resources for understanding immunity in P. olivaceus immune-related components and assisted us in further exploring the molecular mechanisms of E. tarda infection in teleosts.

Exploration of anti-stress mechanisms in high temperature exposed juvenile golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta) based on transcriptome profiling

Sepia esculenta is a cephalopod widely distributed in the Western Pacific Ocean, and there has been growing research interest due to its high economic and nutritional value. The limited anti-stress capacity of larvae renders challenges for their adaptation to high ambient temperatures. Exposure to high temperatures produces intense stress responses, thereby affecting survival, metabolism, immunity, and other life activities. Notably, the molecular mechanisms by which larval cuttlefish cope with high temperatures are not well understood. As such, in the present study, transcriptome sequencing of S. esculenta larvae was performed and 1,927 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. DEGs were subjected to functional enrichment analyses using the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. The top 20 terms of biological processes in GO and 20 high-temperature stress-related pathways in KEGG functional enrichment analysis were identified. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed to investigate the interaction between temperature stress-related genes. A total of 30 key genes with a high degree of participation in KEGG signaling pathways or protein-protein interactions were identified and subsequently validated using quantitative RT-PCR. Through a comprehensive analysis of the protein-protein interaction network and KEGG signaling pathway, the functions of three hub genes (HSP90AA1, PSMD6, and PSMA5), which belong to the heat shock protein family and proteasome, were explored. The present results can facilitate further understanding of the mechanism of high temperature resistance in invertebrates and provide a reference for the S. esculenta industry in the context of global warming.

Acute effects of polystyrene nanoplastics on the immune response in Sepia esculenta larvae

With extensive use of plastic products, microplastics (MPs, < 5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs, < 1 μm) have become major pollutants in ecosystem, especially in marine environment. In recent years, researches on the impact of NPs on organisms have gradually increased. However, studies on the influence of NPs on cephalopods are still limited. Golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta), an important economic cephalopod, is a shallow marine benthic organism. In this study, the effect of acute exposure (4 h) to 50-nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 100 μg/L) on the immune response of S. esculenta larvae was analyzed via transcriptome data. A total of 1260 DEGs were obtained in the gene expression analysis. The analyses of GO, KEGG signaling pathway enrichment, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were then performed to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of the immune response. Finally, 16 key immune-related DEGs were obtained according to the number of KEGG signaling pathways involved and the PPI number. This study not only confirmed that NPs had an impact on cephalopod immune response, but also provided novel insights for further unmasking the toxicological mechanisms of NPs.

Gene network analyses of larvae under different egg-protecting behaviors provide novel insights into immune response mechanisms of Amphioctopus fangsiao

Amphioctopus fangsiao was a representative economic species in cephalopods, which was vulnerable to marine bacteria. Vibrio anguillarum was a highly infectious pathogen that have recently been found to infect A. fangsiao and inhibit its growth and development. There were significant differences in the immune response mechanisms between egg-protected and egg-unprotected larvae. To explore larval immunity under different egg-protecting behaviors, we infected A. fangsiao larvae with V. anguillarum for 24 h and analyzed the transcriptome data about egg-protected and egg-unprotected larvae infected with 0, 4, 12, and 24 h using weighted gene co-expression networks (WGCNA) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Network analyses revealed a series of immune response processes after infection, and identified six key modules and multiple immune-related hub genes. Meanwhile, we found that ZNF family, such as ZNF32, ZNF160, ZNF271, ZNF479, and ZNF493 might play significant roles in A. fangsiao immune response processes. We first creatively combined WGCNA and PPI network analysis to deeply explore the immune response mechanisms of A. fangsiao larvae with different egg-protecting behaviors. Our results provided further insights into the immunity of V. anguillarum infected invertebrates, and laid the foundation for exploring the immune differences among cephalopods with different egg protecting behaviors.

Radiomics model and clinical scale for the preoperative diagnosis of silent corticotroph adenomas

OBJECTIVE

Silent corticotroph adenomas (SCAs) are a subtype of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas that exhibit more aggressive behavior. However, rapid and accurate preoperative diagnostic methods are currently lacking.

DESIGN

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences between SCA and non-SCA features and to establish radiomics models and a clinical scale for rapid and accurate prediction.

METHODS

A total of 260 patients (72 SCAs vs. 188 NSCAs) with nonfunctioning adenomas from Peking Union Medical College Hospital were enrolled in the study as the internal dataset. Thirty-five patients (6 SCAs vs. 29 NSCAs) from Fuzhou General Hospital were enrolled as the external dataset. Radiomics models and an SCA scale to preoperatively diagnose SCAs were established based on MR images and clinical features.

RESULTS

There were more female patients (internal dataset: p < 0.001; external dataset: p = 0.028) and more multiple microcystic changes (internal dataset: p < 0.001; external dataset: p = 0.012) in the SCA group. MRI showed more invasiveness (higher Knosp grades, p ≤ 0.001). The radiomics model achieved AUCs of 0.931 and 0.937 in the internal and external datasets, respectively. The clinical scale achieved an AUC of 0.877 and a sensitivity of 0.952 in the internal dataset and an AUC of 0.899 and a sensitivity of 1.0 in the external dataset.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on clinical information and imaging characteristics, the constructed radiomics model achieved high preoperative diagnostic ability. The SCA scale achieved the purpose of rapidity and practicality while ensuring sensitivity, which is conducive to simplifying clinical work.

Preliminary Exploration of Metabolic Mechanisms in Copper-Exposed Sepia esculenta Based on Transcriptome Analysis

As a common and high-concentration heavy metal in the ocean, Cu can induce metal toxicity and significantly affect the metabolic function of marine organisms. Sepia esculenta is an important economic cephalopod found along the east coast of China, the growth, movement, and reproduction of which are all affected by heavy metals. Hitherto, the specific metabolic mechanism of heavy-metal exposure in S. esculenta is still unclear. In this study, we identified 1131 DEGs through transcriptome analysis of larval S. esculenta within 24 h of Cu exposure. GO and KEGG functional enrichment analysis results indicated that Cu exposure may affect purine metabolism, protein digestion and absorption, cholesterol metabolism, and other metabolic processes in S. esculenta larvae. It is worth noting that in this study we explore metabolic mechanism of Cu-exposed S. esculenta larvae through the comprehensive analysis of protein–protein interaction network and KEGG enrichment analysis for the first time and find 20 identified key and hub genes such as CYP7A1, CYP3A11, and ABCA1. Based on their expression, we preliminarily speculate that Cu exposure may inhibit multiple metabolic processes and induce metabolic disorders. Our results lay a foundation for further understanding the metabolic mechanism of S. esculenta against heavy metals and provide theoretical help for S. esculenta artificial breeding.

Resveratrol promotes bone mass in ovariectomized rats and the SIRT1 rs7896005 SNP is associated with bone mass in women during perimenopause and early postmenopause

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of SIRT1 agonist resveratrol on bone mass in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and the SIRT1 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs7896005 on bone mass in women during menopause and early postmenopause.

METHODS

An animal experiment was conducted on rats that were sham-operated (SHAM), OVX or OVX and different administered doses of resveratrol. Serum markers and femur microstructure and staining were assessed. A cross-sectional study was conducted in women undergoing menopause. SIRT1 protein and SIRT1 SNP rs7896005 were evaluated.

RESULTS

OVX rats administered resveratrol, especially high doses, showed lower bone loss than OVX rats. Serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and femur SIRT1, β-catenin and bone mineral density (BMD) were significantly increased, whereas receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) was significantly decreased. Serum SIRT1 levels were significantly lower in women with low bone mass (p < 0.01). Women with the CA genotype of rs7896005 had lower bone mass than those with the CC genotype. The A allele showed a significant negative effect on bone loss risk (odds ratio = 3.48; p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

Resveratrol stimulated SIRT1 expression and Wnt/β-catenin signaling to promote bone mass in rat femurs. Among women in perimenopause and early postmenopause, SIRT1 protected bone mass, and the A allele of SIRT1 rs7896005 was a risk factor for reduced bone mass.

Transcriptome analysis preliminary reveals the immune response mechanism of golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta) larvae exposed to Cd

As a well-known marine metal element, Cd can significantly affect bivalve mollusk life processes such as growth and development. However, the effects of Cd on the molecular mechanisms of the economically important cephalopod species Sepia esculenta remain unclear. In this study, S. esculenta larval immunity exposed to Cd is explored based on RNA-Seq. The analyses of GO, KEGG, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of 1,471 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) reveal that multiple immune processes are affected by exposure such as inflammatory reaction and cell adhesion. Comprehensive analyses of KEGG signaling pathways and the PPI network are first used to explore Cd-exposed S. esculenta larval immunity, revealing the presence of 16 immune-related key and hub genes involved in exposure response. Results of gene and pathway functional analyses increase our understanding of Cd-exposed S. esculenta larval immunity and improve our overall understanding of mollusk immune functions.

Time-dependent immune injury induced by short-term exposure to nanoplastics in the Sepia esculenta larvae

Marine organisms are threatened by various environmental contaminants, and nanoplastics (NPs) is one of the most concerned. Studied have shown that NPs has a certain impact on marine organisms, but the specific molecular mechanism is still unclear. At present, researches on the effect of NPs on marine life mostly focus on crustaceans, gastropods, and bivalves. In this study, cephalopod Sepia esculenta larvae were first used to investigate the potential immune response molecular mechanisms caused by PS-NPs (50 nm, 50 mg/L) short-term exposure (4 and 24 h). Through S. esculenta larvae transcriptome profile of gene expression analysis, 548 and 1990 genes showed differential expression at 4 and 24 h after NPs exposure, respectively. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed to find immune related DEGs. Then, the interaction relationship between the immune related DEGs after NPs exposure was known through the constructed protein-protein interaction network. 20 hub genes were found on the base of KEGG pathway numbers involved and protein-protein interaction numbers. This research supply valuable genes for the study of cephalopod immune response caused by NPs, which can help us further uncover the molecular mechanisms of organism against NPs.

Transcriptome profiling based on protein-protein networks provides a core set of genes for understanding blood immune response mechanisms against LPS stress in Amphioctopus fangsiao

Gram-negative bacteria are significant pathogens in the ocean, posing serious threats to marine organisms. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a characteristic chemical constituent in Gram-negative bacteria that can be recognized by the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) of immune cells. This system is often used to simulate the invasion of bacteria. Blood is a transport channel for immune cells, and its transcriptome information obtained from Amphioctopus fangsiao stimulated by LPS is essential for understanding the antibacterial biological mechanisms of this species. In this study, we analyzed the gene expression profiles of A. fangsiao blood within 24h under LPS stress and found 778 and 561 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 6 and 24h, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analyses were performed to search for immune-related DEGs. The relationships among immune genes were examined by constructing a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Finally, 16 hub genes were identified based on the PPI network and KEGG enrichment analysis. The expression profiles of these genes were verified using quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). This research provides valuable resources for the healthy culture of A. fangsiao and helps us understand the molecular mechanisms of innate immunity.

Effect of acute Cu exposure on immune response mechanisms of golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta)

Sepia esculenta is a common economic cephalopod that has received extensive attention due to the tender meat, rich protein content and certain medicinal value thereof. Over the past decade, multiple industries have discharged waste into the ocean in large quantities, thereby significantly increasing the concentration of heavy metals in the ocean. Copper (Cu) is a common heavy metal in the ocean. The increase of Cu content will affect numerous biological processes such as immunity and metabolism of marine organisms. High concentrations of Cu may inhibit S. esculenta growth, development, swimming, and other processes, which would significantly affect its culture. In this research, transcriptome analysis is used to initially explore Cu-exposed S. esculenta larval immune response mechanisms. And compared to control group with normally growing larvae, 2056 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are identified in experimental group with Cu-exposed larvae. The results of DEGs functional enrichment analyses including GO and KEGG indicate that Cu exposure might promote inflammatory and innate immune responses in cuttlefish larvae. Then, 10 key genes that might regulate larval immunity are identified using a comprehensive analysis that combines protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and KEGG functional enrichment analyses, of which three genes with the highest number of protein interactions or involve in more KEGG signaling pathways are identified as hub genes that might significantly affect larval immune response processes. Comprehensive analysis of PPI network and KEGG signaling pathway are used for the first time to explore Cu-exposed S. esculenta larval immune response mechanisms. Our results preliminarily reveal immune response mechanisms of cephalopods exposed to heavy metals and provide valuable resources for further understanding mollusk immunity.

Exploration of immune response mechanisms in cadmium and copper co-exposed juvenile golden cuttlefish (Sepia esculenta) based on transcriptome profiling

Sepia esculenta is a popular economic cephalopod with high yield, delicious meat, and rich nutrition. With the rapid development of heavy industry and medical industry, a large amount of waste has been released into the ocean recklessly in recent years, inducing a significant increase in the content of heavy metals, especially cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu), in the ocean. This phenomenon significantly affects the growth and development of S. esculenta, causing a serious blow to its artificial breeding. In this study, transcriptome analysis is used to initially explore immune response mechanisms of Cd and Cu co-exposed juvenile S. esculenta. The results show that 1,088 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are identified. And DEGs functional enrichment analysis results suggests that co-exposure may promote inflammatory and innate immune responses in juvenile S. esculenta. Fifteen key genes that might regulate the immunity of S. esculenta are identified using protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and KEGG enrichment analyses, of which the three genes with the highest number of interactions or involve in more KEGG pathways are identified as hub genes that might significantly affect the immune response processes. Comprehensive analysis of PPI network and KEGG signaling pathway is used for the first time to explore co-exposed S. esculenta juvenile immune response processes. Our results preliminarily reveal immune response mechanisms of cephalopods exposed to heavy metals and provide a valuable resource for further understanding of mollusk immunity.

Differential gene expression analysis related to sperm storage in spermathecas of Amphioctopus fangsiao

Sperm storage in the female body is an important strategy in animal reproductive behavior. Amphioctopus fangsiao is an economically important cephalopod that has a sperm storage period of up to seven months. There are few studies concerning the mechanism of sperm storage in A. fangsiao. In this study, we performed transcriptome gene expression profiling of the oviductal glands at different phases (presence and absence of sperm storage). In total, 7943 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) comprising 4737 upregulated and 3206 downregulated genes were identified. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were used to search for sperm storage-related genes. A protein interaction network was constructed to examine the interactions between genes. Nineteen genes associated with immunity, apoptosis, and autophagy were obtained and verified by qRT-PCR. This is the first comprehensive analysis of sperm storage-related genes in A. fangsiao. The results provide basic insights into the complex sperm storage mechanism of A. fangsiao.

Transcriptome profiling based on larvae at different time points after hatching provides a core set of gene resource for understanding the immune response mechanisms of the egg-protecting behavior against Vibrio anguillarum infection in Amphioctopus fangsiao

Mollusks have recently received increasing attention because of their unique immune systems. Mollusks such as Amphioctopus fangsiao are economically important cephalopods, and the effects of their egg-protecting behavior on the larval immune response are unclear. Meanwhile, little research has been done on the resistance response of cephalopod larvae infected with pathogenic bacteria such as Vibrio anguillarum. In this study, V. anguillarum was used to infect the primary hatching A. fangsiao larvae under different egg-protecting behaviors for 24 h, and a total of 7156 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified at four time points after hatching based on transcriptome analysis. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses showed that multiple immune-related GO terms and KEGG signaling pathways were enriched. Protein-protein interaction networks (PPI networks) were used to search functional relationships between immune-related DEGs. Finally, 20 hub genes related to multiple gene functions or involved in multiple signaling pathways were identified, and their accuracy was verified using quantitative RT-PCR. PPI networks were first used to study the effects A. fangsiao larvae after infection with V. anguillarum under different egg-protecting behaviors. The results provide significant genetic resources for exploring invertebrate larval immune processes. The data lays a foundation for further study the immune response mechanisms for invertebrates after infection.

Site-specific therapy in cancers of unknown primary site: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Cancer of unknown primary site (CUP) is a term applied to characterize pathologically confirmed metastatic cancer with unknown primary tumor origin. It remains uncertain whether patients with CUP benefit from site-specific therapy guided by molecular profiling.

Patients and methods

A systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov, and of conference abstracts from January 1976 to January 2021 was performed to identify studies investigating the efficacy of site-specific therapy on patients with CUP. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Eligible studies were weighted and pooled for meta-analysis. Hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were assessed to compare the efficacy of site-specific therapy with empiric therapy in patients with CUP. In addition, subgroup analyses were conducted.

Results

Five studies comprising 1114 patients were identified, of which 454 patients received site-specific therapy, and 660 patients received empiric therapy. Our meta-analysis revealed that site-specific therapy was not significantly associated with improved PFS [HR 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74-1.17, P = 0.534] and OS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.55-1.03, P = 0.069), compared with empiric therapy. However, during subgroup analysis significantly improved OS was associated with site-specific therapy in the high-accuracy predictive assay subgroup (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26-0.81, P = 0.008) compared with the low accuracy predictive assay subgroup (HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.75-1.15, P = 0.509). Furthermore, compared with patients with less responsive tumor types, more survival benefit from site-specific therapy was found in patients with more responsive tumors (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.46-0.97, P = 0.037).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that site-specific therapy is not significantly associated with improved survival outcomes; however, it might benefit patients with CUP with responsive tumor types.

•

Studies evaluating the role of site-specific therapy guided by molecular profiling in CUP provided contradictory results.

•

Site-specific therapy is not significantly associated with improved survival outcomes in the overall CUP population.

•

Molecularly defined site-specific therapy may improve OS only when high-accuracy assays assign CUP to responsive tumor types.

Transcriptome Profiling Based on Larvae at Different Time Points After Hatching Provides a Core Set of Gene Resource for Understanding the Metabolic Mechanisms of the Brood-Care Behavior in Octopus ocellatus

The metabolic processes of organisms are very complex. Each process is crucial and affects the growth, development, and reproduction of organisms. Metabolism-related mechanisms in Octopus ocellatus behaviors have not been widely studied. Brood-care is a common behavior in most organisms, which can improve the survival rate and constitution of larvae. Octopus ocellatus carried out this behavior, but it was rarely noticed by researchers before. In our study, 3,486 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified based on transcriptome analysis of O. ocellatus. We identify metabolism-related DEGs using GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Then, we construct protein-protein interaction networks to search the functional relationships between metabolism-related DEGs. Finally, we identified 10 hub genes related to multiple gene functions or involved in multiple signal pathways and verified them using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Protein-protein interaction networks were first used to study the effects of brood-care behavior on metabolism in the process of growing of O. ocellatus larvae, and the results provide us valuable genetic resources for understanding the metabolic processes of invertebrate larvae. The data lay a foundation for further study the brood-care behavior and metabolic mechanisms of invertebrates.

Transcriptome profiling based on protein-protein interaction networks provides a set of core genes for understanding the immune response mechanisms of the egg-protecting behavior in Octopus ocellatus

Protection via of the immune system is indispensable to the life of organisms. Within an immune network, problems with a given link will affect the normal life activities of the organism. Octopus ocellatus is cephalopod widely distributed throughout the world's oceans. Because of its unique nervous system and locomotive organs, research on this species has gradually increased in recent years. Many immune response mechanisms associated with behaviors of O. ocellatus are still unclear. Moreover, as a factor affecting the normal growth of O. ocellatus, egg protection has rarely been considered in previous behavioral studies. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptome profile of gene expression in O. ocellatus larvae, and identified 5936 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were used to search for immune-related DEGs. Protein-protein interaction networks were constructed to examine the interactions between immune-related genes. Fifteen hub genes involved in multiple KEGG signaling pathways or with multiple protein-protein interaction relationships were obtained and verified by quantitative RT-PCR. We first studied the effects of egg protection on the immunity of O. ocellatus larvae by means of protein-protein interaction networks, and the results provide valuable genetic resources for understanding the immunity of invertebrate larvae. The data serve as a foundation for further research on the egg-protecting behavior of invertebrates.

Grapevine vein clearing virus Is Prevalent and Genetically Variable in Grape Aphid (Aphis illinoisensis Shimer) Populations

Grapevine vein clearing virus (GVCV) causes severe stunting and death of cultivated grapevines and is prevalent in native Vitis spp. and Ampelopsis cordata in the Midwest region of the United States. GVCV can be transmitted from wild A. cordata to Vitis spp. by grape aphid (Aphis illinoisensis) under greenhouse conditions, but its prevalence, genetic composition, and genome number in native grape aphids are unknown. In this study, we collected grape aphids from native Vitaceae across the state of Missouri in 2018 and 2019, and conducted diagnostic, genetic, and quantitative analyses. GVCV was detected in 91 of the 105 randomly sampled communities on 71 Vitaceae plants (87%). It was present in 211 of 525 single grape aphids (40%). Diverse GVCV variants from aphids were present on both GVCV-negative and GVCV-positive plants. Identical GVCV variants were found in grape aphids sampled from wild and cultivated Vitaceae, indicating that viruliferous aphids likely migrate and disperse GVCV variants among wild and cultivated Vitaceae. In addition, we found that the number of GVCV genomes varies largely in the stylet and body of individual aphids. Our study provides a snapshot of GVCV epidemics and genetic structure in its mobile vector and sessile hosts. This presents a good model for studying the epidemiology, ecology, and evolution of a plant virus.

Entamoeba gingivalis Exerts Severe Pathogenic Effects on the Oral Mucosa

The protozoan Entamoeba gingivalis colonizes the healthy oral mucosa with a prevalence of 15%. Colonization can be asymptomatic, and it is considered not pathogenic. However, it is able to invade lacerated oral mucosa, where it ingests fragments of live cells, suggesting pathogenous potential. Here, we characterized the transcriptomes of gingival cells after infection with E. gingivalis using RNA sequencing and observed pathogen interaction with the epithelial monolayer barrier by scanning electron microscopy. In epithelial and fibroblast cells, strongest differential expression showed gene set “chemokines and inflammatory molecules in myeloid cells” (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.9, effect size 5.15, adjusted P = 3.1 × 10⁻¹⁹) and “cell cycle and growth arrest” (AUC = 0.91, effect size = 4.56, adjusted P = 4.8 × 10⁻⁹), respectively. The most upregulated genes were TNF (fold change 430) and IL8 (fold change 359) in epithelial cells and ZN331 (fold change 18) in fibroblasts. We showed that E. gingivalis killed live epithelial cells by trogocytosis, demonstrating strong pathogenic potential.

A Constant-Force End-Effector With Online Force Adjustment for Robotic Ultrasonography

In this letter, we propose a novel constant-force end-effector (CFEE) to address current limitations in robotic ultrasonography. The CFEE uses a parallel, motor-spring-based solution to precisely generate constant operating forces over a wide range and enable the ultrasound (US) probe to adapt to the abdominal contours autonomously. A displacement measurement unit was developed to realize the acquisition of probe position and precise control of the operating force. Moreover, the operating force can be adjusted online to maintain safety and continuity of operation. Simulations and experiments were carried out to evaluate the performance. Results show that the proposed CFEE can provide constant forces of 4-12 N with displacements of 0-8 mm. The maximum relative error of force generation is 8.28%, and the accuracy and precision for displacement measurement are 0.29 mm and ±0.16 mm, respectively. Various operating forces can be adjusted online during the same operation. Ultrasound images acquired by the proposed CFEE are of equally good quality compared to a manual sonographer scan. The proposed CFEE would have potential further medical applications.

[Method of dietary nutritional status assessment and its application in cohort study of nutritional epidemiology]

Minimizing the burden on study subjects and assessing the general dietary nutritional status as accurately as possible are the basis of a nutritional epidemiological cohort study in the general population. While introducing the main dietary nutrition assessment methods, this paper manly describes the basic contents and principles for the development of food frequency questionnaire, and briefly illustrates the problems and solutions for the development of area specific food frequency questionnaires by taking the example of Tianjin Chronic Low-grade Systemic Inflammation and Health (TCLSIH) cohort study. Finally, discusses preliminarily the necessity and possibility of developing a national food frequency questionnaire.

Entamoeba gingivalis Causes Oral Inflammation and Tissue Destruction

A metagenomics analysis showed a strongly increased frequency of the protozoan Entamoeba gingivalis in inflamed periodontal pockets, where it contributed the second-most abundant rRNA after human rRNA. This observation and the close biological relationship to Entamoeba histolytica, which causes inflammation and tissue destruction in the colon of predisposed individuals, raised our concern about its putative role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Histochemical staining of gingival epithelium inflamed from generalized severe chronic periodontitis visualized the presence of E. gingivalis in conjunction with abundant neutrophils. We showed that on disruption of the epithelial barrier, E. gingivalis invaded gingival tissue, where it moved and fed on host cells. We validated the frequency of E. gingivalis in 158 patients with periodontitis and healthy controls by polymerase chain reaction and microscopy. In the cases, we detected the parasite in 77% of inflamed periodontal sites and 22% of healthy sites; 15% of healthy oral cavities were colonized by E. gingivalis. In primary gingival epithelial cells, we demonstrated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction that infection with E. gingivalis but not with the oral bacterial pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis strongly upregulated the inflammatory cytokine IL8 (1,900 fold, P = 2 × 10–4) and the epithelial barrier gene MUC21 (8-fold, P = 7 × 10–4). In gingival fibroblasts, we showed upregulation of the collagenase MMP13 (11-fold, P = 3 × 10–4). Direct contact of E. gingivalis to gingival epithelial cells inhibited cell proliferation. We indicated the strong virulence potential of E. gingivalis and showed that the mechanisms of tissue invasion and destruction are similar to the colonic protozoan parasite E. histolytica. In conjunction with abundant colonization of inflamed periodontal sites and the known resistance of Entamoeba species to neutrophils, antimicrobial peptides, and various antibiotics, our results raise the awareness of this protozoan as a potential and, to date, underrated microbial driver of destructive forms of periodontitis.

Excessive daytime sleepiness with snoring or witnessed apnea is associated with handgrip strength: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is emerging as an important public health problem, and evidences have determined that poor sleep is associated with muscle strength, but the potential effects of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), snoring and witnessed apnea on handgrip strength have not been evaluated.

AIM

We aimed to examine the association between EDS, snoring, witnessed apnea and muscle strength in an adult population.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study comprised 19 434 adults. Handgrip strength was measured using a handheld digital dynamometer. EDS was assessed by Epworth Sleepiness Scale, snoring and witnessed apnea during sleep were reported through simple yes/no questions. Analysis of covariance was carried out to determine the association between EDS with snoring or witnessed apnea and muscle strength.

RESULTS

The means (95% confidence interval) for average handgrip strength/body weight (kg/kg) across symptoms categories were 0.396 (0.333-0.472), 0.393 (0.330-0.467), 0.396 (0.333-0.471) and 0.386 (0.325-0.460) (P < 0.0001), respectively. Similar results were observed with maximal handgrip strength/body weight (kg/kg).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-reported EDS accompanied with snoring or apnea is associated with lowest handgrip strength, independently of confounding factors. Whether improvement of EDS, snoring and apnea, can ameliorate age-associated decline in muscle strength warrants further studies.

OS8.1 A phase 0/2 clinical trial of a CDK4/6 inhibitor in aggressive meningioma patients

BACKGROUND

New approaches are urgently needed for aggressive meningiomas, which remain largely incurable. Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) has been identified as a master transcription factor in aggressive meningiomas and Cyclin D-dependent Kinases (CDK) are positive regulators of cell-cycle entry, promoting tumorigenesis through FOXM1 activation. We evaluated the tumor pharmacokinetics (PK), tumor pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary clinical response of ribociclib, a selective CDK4/6-inhibitor, in aggressive meningioma patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eight aggressive WHO Grade II/III meningioma patients with intact RB expression were enrolled and administered oral ribociclib daily (900mg) for 5 days prior to tumor resection. Plasma, tumor, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected at 2, 8, or 24 h after the last dose. Total and unbound drug concentrations were determined using a validated LC-MS/MS method. PD effects, including RB and FoxM1 phosphorylation, were compared to matched archival tissue. Patients with PK and PD responses in tumor tissue, defined as unbound ribociclib concentration > 5-fold in vitro IC50 (0.04µM) and >20% decrease in pRB levels, respectively, were enrolled into an exploratory Phase 2 cohort.

RESULTS

The median CSF concentration of ribociclib was 0.25 µM. In tumor tissue, the median unbound ribociclib concentration was 1.36 µM and the median unbound tumor-to-plasma ratio was 5.34. Suppression of G1-to-S phase was inferred in tumors with declining FoxM1 phosphorylation (50%), RB phosphorylation (38%), and cellular proliferation (75%). Four patients demonstrated concurrent PK and PD responses and were graduated to continuous ribociclib therapy. At one year, two of these patients (one Grade II and one Grade III) demonstrate partial responses per RANO criteria.

CONCLUSION

Ribociclib achieves pharmacologically-active concentrations in aggressive meningioma tissue. Target modulation was demonstrated by a decrease in FOXM1-mediated tumor proliferation. Further investigation of ribociclib as a therapeutic strategy for aggressive meningiomas is warranted.

OS4.2 Phase 0 trial of Ceritinib in brain metastasis and recurrent glioblastoma

BACKGROUND

Ceritinib is an orally bioavailable, small molecule inhibitor for ALK/IGFR1/FAK, which are highly expressed in glioblastoma and brain metastases. Preclinical and clinical data suggest that ceritinib has activity in central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, but to date there is no direct evidence in patients. This study assessed the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of ceritinib in recurrent glioblastoma and brain metastasis patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three brain metastasis and seven glioblastoma patients with high expression of pSTAT5b/pFAK/pIGFR1 were enrolled and treated with oral ceritinib daily (750 mg) for 10 days prior to tumor resection. Plasma, tumor, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected at ~ 4 and 24 h following the last dose. Total and unbound drug concentrations were determined using LC-MS/MS. PD response was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis of pALK, pFAK, pIGFR1, and pIRS1 staining in treated tumor and matched archival tissues.

RESULTS

Ceritinib was highly bound to human plasma protein (median fraction unbound (Fu), 1.4%) and to brain tumor tissue (median Fu, 0.073% and 0.14% in enhancing and non-enhancing regions respectively). There was a large interindividual variability in drug CNS penetration, with the median unbound concentrations in enhancing, non-enhancing, and CSF of 0.040, 0.006, and 0.012 µM, respectively. The median unbound tumor-to-plasma ratio was 2.44 and 0.33 in enhancing and non-enhancing areas, respectively. In one patient with brain metastasis, drug binding to enhancing tumor was significantly lower (Fu, 1.62%), resulting in a higher unbound drug tumor concentration and CSF concentration as compared to those in glioblastoma patients. In all patients, no changes in PD markers were detected.

CONCLUSION

Ceritinib is highly bound to plasma proteins and tumor tissues. Unbound drug concentrations achieved in brain metastasis and glioblastoma are unlikely sufficient for target modulation.

HMGA2 Modulates the TGFβ/Smad, TGFβ/ERK and Notch Signaling Pathways in Human Lens Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Multiple signaling pathways coordinately promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in lens epithelial cells (LECs), where transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-mediated signaling plays a central role. But the mechanism of crosstalk among these pathways remains obscure. The objective of this study is to investigate the regulatory effect of the high mobility group protein A2 (HMGA2) on the signaling pathways in lens fibrosis.

METHODS

The human anterior capsulorhexis specimens were collected. The human SRA01/04 LEC line was cultured and treated with recombinant human TGFβ2 (5ng/ml). For inhibition of signaling pathways, a selective inhibitor SB431542, U0126 or DAPT was added to LECs respectively. The specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) were transfected to LECs for gene silence. The mRNAs expressions were measured by realtime PCR and the proteins expressions were determined by western blot and immunofluorescent staining.

RESULTS

HMGA2 and EMT markers α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), fibronectin (FN) and collagen type I (Col I) were overexpressed in human ASC specimens and TGFβ2 stimulated EMT in LECs. While blockage of EMT by a selective inhibitor of TGFβ/Smad, TGFβ/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) or Notch signaling pathway could significantly inhibited HMGA2 protein expression. And silence of HMGA2 by siRNA could significantly inhibit TGFβ2 induced expression of EMT markers including FN, Col I, collagen type IV (Col IV), key transcription factors Snail and Slug, and remarkably upregulate the epithelial markers E-cadherin and tight junction protein (ZO-1). In addition, silence of HMGA2 gene could abrogate TGFβ2 induced phosphorylation of Smad2, Smad3 as well as ERK1/2. Blockage of HMGA2 could also inhibit the upregulation of Jagged1, Notch2, and Notch3 induced by TGFβ2.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that HMGA2 functions as a shared effector in TGFβ2- induced lens fibrosis, modulating the signaling network necessary for EMT in a positive feedback loop.

The effects of transboundary air pollution following major events in China on air quality in the U.S.: Evidence from Chinese New Year and sandstorms

Transboundary air pollution is a global environmental and public health problem including in the U.S., where pollution emissions from China, the largest emitter of anthropogenic air pollution in the world, can travel across the Pacific Ocean and reach places like California and Oregon. We examine the effects of transboundary air pollution following major events in China, specifically sandstorms, a natural-occurring source of air pollution, and Chinese New Year, a major 7-day holiday, on background air quality in the U.S. We focus on high elevation sites on the west coast between 2000 and 2013. We use regression analysis and a natural experiment to exploit the variation in the timing of these events in China, which are plausibly uncorrelated to other factors that affect air quality in China and the U.S. We find that sandstorms are associated with statistically significant increases in background coarse and fine particulate matter (PM) in the U.S., representing between 16 and 39% of average weekly PM levels. We also find Chinese New Year is associated with modest reductions in background air quality in the U.S., representing between 0.4 and 2.5% of PM levels. Findings are robust to different models and falsification tests. These results suggest that regression analysis could be a powerful tool to complement other, more widely used techniques in the environmental sciences that study this problem. This also has important implications for policymakers, who could track major sandstorms in China and prepare for possible increased foreign pollution emissions in the U.S.

The gut microbiota, bile acids and their correlation in primary sclerosing cholangitis associated with inflammatory bowel disease

Background

Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis associated with inflammatory bowel disease (PSC-IBD) have a very high risk of developing colorectal neoplasia. Alterations in the gut microbiota and/or gut bile acids could account for the increase in this risk. However, no studies have yet investigated the net result of cholestasis and a potentially altered bile acid pool interacting with a dysbiotic gut flora in the inflamed colon of PSC-IBD.

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the gut microbiota and stool bile acid profiles, as well as and their correlation in patients with PSC-IBD and inflammatory bowel disease alone.

Methods

Thirty patients with extensive colitis (15 with concomitant primary sclerosing cholangitis) were prospectively recruited and fresh stool samples were collected. The microbiota composition in stool was profiled using bacterial 16S rRNA sequencing. Stool bile acids were assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

The total stool bile acid pool was significantly reduced in PSC-IBD. Although no major differences were observed in the individual bile acid species in stool, their overall combination allowed a good separation between PSC-IBD and inflammatory bowel disease. Compared with inflammatory bowel disease alone, PSC-IBD patients demonstrated a different gut microbiota composition with enrichment in Ruminococcus and Fusobacterium genus compared with inflammatory bowel disease. At the operational taxonomic unit level major shifts were observed within the Firmicutes (73%) and Bacteroidetes phyla (17%). Specific microbiota-bile acid correlations were observed in PSC-IBD, where 12% of the operational taxonomic units strongly correlated with stool bile acids, compared with only 0.4% in non-PSC-IBD.

Conclusions

Patients with PSC-IBD had distinct microbiota and microbiota-stool bile acid correlations as compared with inflammatory bowel disease. Whether these changes are associated with, or may predispose to, an increased risk of colorectal neoplasia needs to be further clarified.

Expression of Dominant Negative K6W-Ubiquitin in the Lens Epithelium via an Adenoviral Vector Delays Posterior Capsule Opacification in a Rabbit Model

PURPOSE

Ubiquitin is involved in cell proliferation and differentiation, and the objective of this study is to investigate the potential of dominant negative Ubiquitin (Ub) with a lysine to tryptophan mutation at the 6 position (K6W) through an adenoviral expression vector in the prevention of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in a rabbit PCO model.

METHODS

Recombinant dominant negative K6W-Ub adenovirus (RAd-K6W-Ub) with green fluorescent protein (RAd-K6W-Ub/GFP) and RAd-GFP viruses (control) were generated with QBI-HEK 293A cells. New Zealand rabbits receiving lens phacoemulsification were given an intraoperative anterior chamber injection of the viruses. The images of anterior segment photography taken by a slit lamp biomicroscopy were analyzed by posterior capsule opacification manual software (POCOman) for PCO grading. The intraocular pressure (IOP) was detected with a non-contact tonometer (NCT). The expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was assessed by Western blotting. Cell migration ability in cultured rabbit's lens epithelial cells (LECs) was evaluated by scratch healing assay.

RESULTS

The expression of GFP and Ub in the lens epithelium was markedly upregulated after 48 hours vector injection. Eyes injected with RAd-K6W-Ub showed a significantly lower PCO degree compared with controls. Meanwhile, higher IOP and corneal edema was observed in groups with a higher RAd-K6W-Ub virus dosage. The expression of α-SMA was down-regulated in the RAd-K6W-Ub eyes as compared to controls at the 15th day after injection. Cell migration was inhibited by RAd-K6W-Ub infection.

CONCLUSIONS

RAd-K6W-Ub at an appropriate dosage could inhibit the proliferation of LECs and the formation of PCO in rabbit models. However, a higher dosage of Rad- K6W-Ub viral vector caused toxic effects to the surrounding tissues, such as corneal edema and high IOP.

Chymotrypsin with sialendoscopy-assisted surgery for the treatment of chronic obstructive parotitis

Chronic obstructive parotitis (COP) is a common disease of the parotid gland. A total of 104 patients with COP were identified and randomized into a treatment group (52 cases) and a control group (52 cases). All patients underwent sialography and salivary gland scintigraphy (SGS) examinations before surgery. The patients in the treatment group received chymotrypsin combined with gentamicin via interventional sialendoscopy to irrigate the duct, and the control group received gentamicin alone. All patients were asked to record their pain on a visual analogue scale (VAS) before treatment and at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. The VAS score for pain intensity was decreased at 1 week post-treatment in both groups (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, the VAS score was lower in the treatment group at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month post-treatment (P<0.05). The 6-month postoperative SGS results showed improved uptake and excretion in both groups (P<0.05). The treatment group exhibited higher scores for postoperative SGS excretion than the control group (P<0.05). The administration of chymotrypsin combined with gentamicin by sialendoscopy is effective for the treatment of non-stone-related COP and specifically improves the excretion function of the parotid gland.