Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.Low-density lipoprotein receptor,a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor,has been found to inhibit...Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.Low-density lipoprotein receptor,a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor,has been found to inhibit NLR family pyrin domain containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activation in neurons following ischemic stroke and to suppress the activation of microglia and astrocytes in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.However,little is known about the effects of low-density lipoprotein receptor on astrocytic activation in ischemic stroke.To address this issue in the present study,we examined the mechanisms by which low-density lipoprotein receptor regulates astrocytic polarization in ischemic stroke models.First,we examined low-density lipoprotein receptor expression in astrocytes via immunofluorescence staining and western blotting analysis.We observed significant downregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor following middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation.Second,we induced the astrocyte-specific overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor using astrocyte-specific adeno-associated virus.Low-density lipoprotein receptor overexpression in astrocytes improved neurological outcomes in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice and reversed neurotoxic astrocytes to create a neuroprotective phenotype.Finally,we found that the overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation injured astrocytes and that the addition of nigericin,an NLRP3 agonist,restored the neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype.These findings suggest that low-density lipoprotein receptor could inhibit the NLRP3-meidiated neurotoxic polarization of astrocytes and that increasing low-density lipoprotein receptor in astrocytes might represent a novel strategy for treating cerebral ischemic stroke.展开更多
Objective Inflammation is involved in the development and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).The monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR)has emerged as a marker for various infla...Objective Inflammation is involved in the development and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).The monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR)has emerged as a marker for various inflammation-related diseases.The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the MHR and NAFLD in a population with childhood obesity.Methods Based on hepatic ultrasound,a total of 504 children with obesity(357 with NAFLD and 147 without NAFLD)were included in the study.The correlation between the MHR and NAFLD risk factors was assessed by Pearson’s and Spearman’s analyses.Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the association between the MHR and the risk of NAFLD.Results The MHR in patients with NAFLD was significantly greater than that in patients without NAFLD[0.52(0.44-0.67)versus 0.44(0.34-0.57),P<0.001].Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the MHR[odds ratio(OR):1.033,95%confidence interval(CI):1.015-1.051;P<0.001]was an independent predictor of NAFLD in childhood obesity patients,as were age(OR:1.205,95%CI:1.059-1.371;P=0.005],waist circumference[OR:1.037,95%CI:1.008-1.067;P=0.012],and alanine transaminase[OR:1.067,95%CI:1.045-1.089;P<0.001].Additionally,MHR quartiles showed a significant positive association with the incidence of NAFLD after adjusting for potential confounding factors.Conclusion The present study showed that the MHR may serve as an available and useful indicator of NAFLD in individuals with childhood obesity.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the relationship between monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR)and the disease activity of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy(TAO).METHODS:A total of 87 patients were classified int...AIM:To evaluate the relationship between monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR)and the disease activity of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy(TAO).METHODS:A total of 87 patients were classified into two groups based on clinical activity score(CAS)scoring criteria:high CAS group(n=62,the CAS score was≥3);low CAS group(n=25,the CAS score was<3).In addition,a group of healthy people(n=114)were included to compared the MHR.Proptosis,MHR,average signal intensity ratio(SIR),average lacrimal gland(LG)-SIR,average extraocular muscles(EOM)area from 87 patients with TAO were calculated in magnetic resonance imaging(MRI),and compared between these two groups.Correlation testing was utilized to evaluate the association of parameters among the clinical variables.RESULTS:Patients in high CAS group had a higher proptosis(P=0.041)and MHR(P=0.048).Compared to the healthy group,the MHR in the TAO group was higher(P=0.001).Correlation testing declared that CAS score was strongly associated with proptosis and average SIR,and MHR was positively associated with CAS score,average SIR,and average LG-SIR.The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)of MHR was 0.6755.CONCLUSION:MHR,a novel inflammatory biomarker,has a significant association with CAS score and MRI imaging(average SIR and LG-SIR)and it can be a new promising predictor during the active phase of TAO.展开更多
BACKGROUND Dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)are chronic conditions with substantial public health implications.Effective management of lipid metabolism in patients with T2DM is critical.However,there has...BACKGROUND Dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)are chronic conditions with substantial public health implications.Effective management of lipid metabolism in patients with T2DM is critical.However,there has been insufficient attention given to the relationship between thyroid hormone sensitivity and dyslipidemia in the T2DM population,particularly concerning non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(non-HDL-C).AIM To clarify the association between thyroid hormone sensitivity and dyslipidemia in patients with T2DM.METHODS In this cross-sectional study,thyroid hormone sensitivity indices,the thyroid feedback quantile-based index(TFQI),the thyroid-stimulating hormone index(TSHI),the thyrotrophic T4 resistance index(TT4RI),and the free triiodothyronine(FT3)/free thyroxine(FT4)ratio were calculated.Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the associations between those composite indices and non-HDL-C levels.Random forest variable importance and Shapley Additive Explanations(SHAP)summary plots were used to identify the strength and direction of the association between hyper-non-HDL-C and its major predictor.RESULTS Among the 994 participants,389(39.13%)had high non-HDL-C levels.Logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk of hyper-non-HDL-C was positively correlated with the TFQI(OR:1.584;95%CI:1.088-2.304;P=0.016),TSHI(OR:1.238;95%CI:1.034-1.482;P=0.02),and TT4RI(OR:1.075;95%CI:1.006-1.149;P=0.032)but was not significantly correlated with the FT3/FT4 ratio.The relationships between composite indices of the thyroid system and non-HDL-C levels differed according to sex.An increased risk of hyper-non-HDL-C was associated with elevated TSHI levels in men(OR:1.331;95%CI:1.003-1.766;P=0.048)but elevated TFQI levels in women(OR:2.337;95%CI:1.4-3.901;P=0.001).Among the analyzed variables,the average SHAP values were highest for TSHI,followed by TT4RI.CONCLUSION Impaired sensitivity to thyroid hormones was associated with high non-HDL-C levels in patients with T2DM.展开更多
Background:Helicobacter pylori(HP)is associated with several gastrointestinal diseases,including peptic ulcer diseases and gastric cancer,and non-gastrointestinal diseases such as hypertension and Alzheimer's dise...Background:Helicobacter pylori(HP)is associated with several gastrointestinal diseases,including peptic ulcer diseases and gastric cancer,and non-gastrointestinal diseases such as hypertension and Alzheimer's disease.However,the relationship between HP and lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis remains unclear.This study aims to investigate the association between H.pylori infection and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and pulse wave conduction velocity.Methods:This is a report of a cross-sectional study that collected data from 2,827 participants.The data collected included results of life questionnaires,laboratory tests,13C-urea breath test(13C-UBT),and pulse wave conduction velocity test.Based on the results of the 13C-UBT test,the subjects were divided into two groups:the HP-uninfected group(HP−)and the HP-infected group(HP+).The study compared the differences in HDL-C levels and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV)between the two groups.One-way regression analysis was used to identify potential factors affecting HDL-C levels in the study population.Multiple regression equations were presented to analyze whether HP infection was an independent risk factor for abnormal HDL-C metabolism in the population.Results:Univariate analysis demonstrated that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C)levels were significantly lower in the HP+group compared to the HP−group,with a mean difference ofβ=−18.1 mg/dl(95%CI:−19.3 to−17.0,P<0.001).After adjusting for all variables,the HDL-C levels remained lower in the HP+group compared to the HP-group,with a mean difference ofβ=−17.4 mg/dl(95%CI:−18.2 to−16.7,P<0.001).These findings suggest that H.pylori infection is independently associated with abnormal HDL-C metabolism.Additionally,brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV)was higher in the HP+group than in the HP−group on both sides.On the right side,the baPWV was 1,713.4±231.4 cm/s in the HP+group compared to 1,542.8±237.5 cm/s in the HP−group(t=−18.30,P<0.001).On the left side,the baPWV was 1,743.7±238.8 cm/s in the HP+group compared to 1,562.8±256.3 cm/s in the HP−group(t=−18.23,P<0.001).These results indicate a significant association between H.pylori infection and increased arterial stiffness,as measured by baPWV.Conclusion:Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and an increase in pulse wave conduction velocity.展开更多
Alzheimer's disease,the primary cause of dementia,is characterized by neuropathologies,such as amyloid plaques,synaptic and neuronal degeneration,and neurofibrillary tangles.Although amyloid plaques are the primar...Alzheimer's disease,the primary cause of dementia,is characterized by neuropathologies,such as amyloid plaques,synaptic and neuronal degeneration,and neurofibrillary tangles.Although amyloid plaques are the primary characteristic of Alzheimer's disease in the central nervous system and peripheral organs,targeting amyloid-beta clearance in the central nervous system has shown limited clinical efficacy in Alzheimer's disease treatment.Metabolic abnormalities are commonly observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease.The liver is the primary peripheral organ involved in amyloid-beta metabolism,playing a crucial role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease.Notably,impaired cholesterol metabolism in the liver may exacerbate the development of Alzheimer's disease.In this review,we explore the underlying causes of Alzheimer's disease and elucidate the role of the liver in amyloid-beta clearance and cholesterol metabolism.Furthermore,we propose that restoring normal cholesterol metabolism in the liver could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for addressing Alzheimer's disease.展开更多
Various previous studies have found a negative cor-relation between the risk of cardiovascular events and serum high-density lipoprotein(HDL) cholesterol levels. The reverse cholesterol transport, a pathway of choles-...Various previous studies have found a negative cor-relation between the risk of cardiovascular events and serum high-density lipoprotein(HDL) cholesterol levels. The reverse cholesterol transport, a pathway of choles-terol from peripheral tissue to liver which has several potent antiatherogenic properties. For instance, the particles of HDL mediate to transport cholesterol from cells in arterial tissues, particularly from atherosclerotic plaques, to the liver. Both ATP-binding cassette trans-porters(ABC) A1 and ABCG1 are membrane cholesterol transporters and have been implicated in mediating cholesterol effluxes from cells in the presence of HDL and apolipoprotein A-I, a major protein constituent of HDL. Previous studies demonstrated that ABCA1 and ABCG1 or the interaction between ABCA1 and ABCG1 exerted antiatherosclerotic effects. As a therapeutic approach for increasing HDL cholesterol levels, much focus has been placed on increasing HDL cholesterol levels as well as enhancing HDL biochemical functions. HDL therapies that use injections of reconstituted HDL, apoA-I mimetics, or full-length apoA-I have shown dramatic effectiveness. In particular, a novel apoA-I mi-metic peptide, Fukuoka University ApoA-I Mimetic Pep-tide, effectively removes cholesterol via specific ABCA1 and other transporters, such as ABCG1, and has an an-tiatherosclerotic effect by enhancing the biological func-tions of HDL without changing circulating HDL choles-terol levels. Thus, HDL-targeting therapy has significant atheroprotective potential, as it uses lipid transporter-targeting agents, and may prove to be a therapeutic tool for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.展开更多
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), an pathologies characterized by fatty accumulation in escalating health problem worldwide, covers a spectrum of hepatocytes in early stages, with potential progression to li...Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), an pathologies characterized by fatty accumulation in escalating health problem worldwide, covers a spectrum of hepatocytes in early stages, with potential progression to liver inflammation, fibrosis, and failure. A close, yet poorly understood link exists between NAFLD and dyslipidemia, a constellation of abnormalities in plasma lipoproteins including triglyceride-rich very low density lipoproteins. Apolipoproteins are a group of primarily liver-derived proteins found in serum lipoproteins; they not only play an extracellular role in lipid transport between vital organs through circulation, but also play an important intracellu- lar role in hepatic lipoprotein assembly and secretion. The liver functions as the central hub for lipoprotein metab- olism, as it dictates lipoprotein production and to a significant extent modulates lipoprotein clearance. Lipoprotein metabolism is an integral component of hepatocellular lipid homeostasis and is implicated in the pathogenesis, potential diagnosis, and treatment of NAFLD.展开更多
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) extracted from hen egg yolk has recently been considered to be superior to whole egg yolk in sperm cryopreservation of various animal species. Meanwhile, there was a notion that high-de...Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) extracted from hen egg yolk has recently been considered to be superior to whole egg yolk in sperm cryopreservation of various animal species. Meanwhile, there was a notion that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in egg yolk may have a negative effect on post-thaw survival. The role of LDL and HDL in sperm cryopreservation of rhesus monkeys has not been explored. The present study evaluates their effect in comparison with egg yolk with or without the addition of permeable cryoprotectant (glycerol) on sperm cryopreservation of rhesus macaques. In addition, various additives intended to change the lipid composition of LDL-sperm membrane complex have also been tested for their effectiveness in preserving post-thaw viability. Our findings indicated that LDL is the main component in egg yolk that is responsible for its protective role for sperm cryopreservation in rhesus monkeys. Regardless of the presence or absence of glycerol, the protective role of LDL is similar to that of egg yolk and we did not observe any superiority in post-thaw survival with LDL when compared to egg yolk. Modifying the lipid composition of LDL-sperm membrane complex with the addition of cholesterol, cholesterol loaded cyclodextrin and phosphatidylcholine also did not yield any improvements in pest-thaw survival; while addition of methyl-β-cyclodextrin reduced post-thaw motility. HDL plays a neutral role in sperm cryopreservation of rhesus monkeys. The present study suggests that egg yolk may still hold advantages when compared with LDL as effective components in extenders for sperm cryopreservation in rhesus monkeys.展开更多
Objective PERK/elF2/CHOP is a major signaling pathway mediating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress related with atherosclerosis. Oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) also induces endothelial apoptosis and plays a vital role in th...Objective PERK/elF2/CHOP is a major signaling pathway mediating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress related with atherosclerosis. Oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) also induces endothelial apoptosis and plays a vital role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. The present study was conducted to explore the regulatory effect of ox-LDL on PERK/elF2a/CHOP signaling pathway in vascular endothelial cells. Methods The effects of ox-LDL on PERK and p-elF2a protein expression of primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were investigated by Western blot analysis. PERK gene silencing and selective elF2a phosphatase inhibitor, salubrinal were used to inhibit the process of ox-LDL induced endothelial cell apoptosis, caspase-3 activity, and CHOP mRNA level. Results Ox-LDL treatment significantly increased the expression of PERK, PERK-mediated inactivation of elF2a phosphorylation, and the expression of CHOP, as well as the caspase-3 activity and apoptosis. The effects of ox-LDL were markedly decreased by knocking down PERK with stable transduction of lentiviral shRNA or by selective elF2a phosphatase inhibitor, salubrinal. Conclusion This study provides the first evidence that ox-LDL induces apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells mediated largely via the PERK/elF2a/CHOP ER-stress pathway. It adds new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis and progression of atherosclerosis.展开更多
Objective The association between lipoprotein(a)[Lp(a)] levels and metabolic syndrome(MetS) remains uncertain, especially in the Asian population. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the association between L...Objective The association between lipoprotein(a)[Lp(a)] levels and metabolic syndrome(MetS) remains uncertain, especially in the Asian population. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the association between Lp(a) levels and MetS in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese cohort. Methods A cross-sectional study of 10,336 Chinese adults aged 40 years or older was conducted in Jiading District, Shanghai, China. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between serum Lp(a) levels and MetS. Results In the overall population, 37.5% of participants had MetS. Compared with individuals in the lowest quartile of serum Lp(a) levels, those in the highest quartile had a lower prevalence of MetS(30.9% vs. 46.9%, P for trend < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that compared with participants in the bottom quartile of serum Lp(a) levels, those in the top quartile had decreased odds ratio(OR) for prevalent MetS [multivariate-adjusted OR 0.45(95% confidence interval 0.39-0.51);P < 0.0001]. Additionally, Lp(a) level was conversely associated with the risk of central obesity, high fasting glucose, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol, but not with hypertension. Stratified analyses suggested that increasing levels of Lp(a) was associated with decreased risk of MetS in all the subgroups. Conclusion Serum Lp(a) level was inversely associated with the risk of prevalent MetS in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese cohort.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effect of lycopene on lipoprotein metabolism during D-galactosamine/lipopolysacchoride(D-Gal/LPS)induced hepatitis in experimentul rats.Methods:The efficacy of lycopene was validated durin...Objective:To investigate the effect of lycopene on lipoprotein metabolism during D-galactosamine/lipopolysacchoride(D-Gal/LPS)induced hepatitis in experimentul rats.Methods:The efficacy of lycopene was validated during D-Gal/LPS induced hepatitis by analyzing the activity of lipid metabolizing enzymes such as lipoprotein lipase(LPL),lecithincholesterol acyl transferase(LCAT)and hepatic triglyceride lipase(HTCL).Lipo protein analyses were done by the estimation of very low density lipoprotein cholesterol(VLDL),low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL)and high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL).Remits:The toxic insult of D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide(D-Gal/LPS)in experimental group of animals reduces the normal values of lipid metabolizing enzymes due to liver injury.The significant drop in the levels of HDL and concomitant increase in the values of VLDL and LDL were observed.The pretreatment of lycopene restore these altered values to near normal level in experimental group of animals.Conclusions:In the light of results,it can be concluded that administration lycopene stabilizes the lipoprotein levels by regulating the lipid metabolizing enzymes through its antioxidant defense and helps to maintain the normal lipid metabolism during toxic injury in liver.展开更多
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. Plasma levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are positively correlated with the risk of atheroscleros...Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. Plasma levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are positively correlated with the risk of atherosclerosis. High plasma LDL concentrations in patients with hypercholesterolemia lead to build-up of LDL in the inner walls of the arteries, which becomes oxidized and promotes the formation of foam cells, consequently initiating atherosclerosis. Plasma LDL is mainly cleared through the LDL receptor (LDLR) pathway. Mutations in the LDLR cause familiar hyperch- olesterolemia and increase the risk of premature coronary heart disease. The expression of LDLR is regulated at the transcriptional level via the sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP-2) and at the posttranslational levels mainly through proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin-type 9 (PCSK9) and inducible degrader of the LDLR (IDOL). In this review, we summarize the latest advances in the studies of PCSK9.展开更多
The effects of oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) on the proliferation of cultured human vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMC) were investigated in vitro. By using NaBr density gradient centrifugation, LDL wa...The effects of oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) on the proliferation of cultured human vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMC) were investigated in vitro. By using NaBr density gradient centrifugation, LDL was isolated and purified from human plasma. Ox-LDL was produced from LDL by being incubated with CuSO4. ox-LDL was then added to the culture medium at different concentrations (35, 60, 85, 110, 135 and 160μg/mL) for 7 days. The influence of ox-LDL on vSMC proliferation was observed in growth curve, mitosis index, and in situ determination of apoptosis. The data were analyzed with SPSS 10.0 software. The results showed that the ox-LDL produced in vitro had a good purity and optimal oxidative degree, which was similar to the intrinsic ox-LDL in atherosclerotic plaque, ox-LDL at a concentration of 35 μg/mL demonstrated the strongest proliferation inducement, and at a concentration of 135 μg/mL, ox-LDL could inhibit the growth of vSMC. ox-LDL at concentrations of 35 and 50 μg/mL presented powerful mitotic trigger, and with the increase of ox-LDL concentration, the mitotic index of vSMC was decreased gradually, ox-LDL at higher concentrations promoted more apoptotic vSMCs, ox-LDL at lower concentrations triggered proliferation of vSMCs, and at higher concentrations induced apoptosis in vSMCs, ox-LDL played a promotional role in the pathogenesis and development of atherosclerosis by affecting vSMC proliferation and apoptosis.展开更多
Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1,also known as CD91),a multifunctional endocytic and cell signaling receptor,is widely expressed on the surface of multiple cell types such as hepatocytes,fibrobl...Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1,also known as CD91),a multifunctional endocytic and cell signaling receptor,is widely expressed on the surface of multiple cell types such as hepatocytes,fibroblasts,neurons,astrocytes,macrophages,smooth muscle cells,and malignant cells.Emerging in vitro and in vivo evidence demonstrates that LRP1 is critically involved in many processes that drive tumorigenesis and tumor progression.For example,LRP1 not only promotes tumor cell migration and invasion by regulating matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-2and MMP-9 expression and functions but also inhibits cell apoptosis by regulating the insulin receptor,the serine/threonine protein kinase signaling pathway,and the expression of Caspase-3.LRPI-mediated phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway and c-jun N-terminal kinase are also involved in tumor cell proliferation and invasion.In addition,LRP1 has been shown to be down-regulated by microRNA-205 and methylation of LRP1CpG islands.Furthermore,a novel fusion gene,LRP1-SNRNP25,promotes osteosarcoma cell invasion and migration.Only by understanding the mechanisms of these effects can we develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cancers mediated by LRP1.展开更多
Infection by hepatitis C virus(HCV), a plus-stranded RNA virus that can cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, is one of the major health problems in the world. HCV infection is considered as a multistep comple...Infection by hepatitis C virus(HCV), a plus-stranded RNA virus that can cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, is one of the major health problems in the world. HCV infection is considered as a multistep complex process and correlated with abnormal metabolism of lipoprotein. In addition, virus attacks hepatocytes by the initial attaching viral envelop glycoprotein E1/E2 to receptors of lipoproteins on host cells. With the development of HCV model system, mechanisms of HCV cell entry through lipoprotein uptake and its receptor have been extensively studied in detail. Here we summarize recent knowledge about the role of lipoprotein receptors, scavenger receptor class B type Ⅰ and low-density lipoprotein receptor in the entry of HCV, providing a foundation of novel targeting therapeutic tools against HCV infection.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82201460(to YH)Nanjing Medical University Science and Technology Development Fund,No.NMUB20210202(to YH).
文摘Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.Low-density lipoprotein receptor,a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor,has been found to inhibit NLR family pyrin domain containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome activation in neurons following ischemic stroke and to suppress the activation of microglia and astrocytes in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.However,little is known about the effects of low-density lipoprotein receptor on astrocytic activation in ischemic stroke.To address this issue in the present study,we examined the mechanisms by which low-density lipoprotein receptor regulates astrocytic polarization in ischemic stroke models.First,we examined low-density lipoprotein receptor expression in astrocytes via immunofluorescence staining and western blotting analysis.We observed significant downregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor following middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation.Second,we induced the astrocyte-specific overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor using astrocyte-specific adeno-associated virus.Low-density lipoprotein receptor overexpression in astrocytes improved neurological outcomes in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice and reversed neurotoxic astrocytes to create a neuroprotective phenotype.Finally,we found that the overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation injured astrocytes and that the addition of nigericin,an NLRP3 agonist,restored the neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype.These findings suggest that low-density lipoprotein receptor could inhibit the NLRP3-meidiated neurotoxic polarization of astrocytes and that increasing low-density lipoprotein receptor in astrocytes might represent a novel strategy for treating cerebral ischemic stroke.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(No.LY22H050001)the Key Project of Provincial Ministry Construction,Health Science and Technology Project Plan of Zhejiang Province(No.WKJ-ZJ-2128)+2 种基金Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province(No.ZDFY2020-RH-0006)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U20A20351)Key Research and Development Plan of Zhejiang Province(No.2021C03079).
文摘Objective Inflammation is involved in the development and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).The monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR)has emerged as a marker for various inflammation-related diseases.The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the MHR and NAFLD in a population with childhood obesity.Methods Based on hepatic ultrasound,a total of 504 children with obesity(357 with NAFLD and 147 without NAFLD)were included in the study.The correlation between the MHR and NAFLD risk factors was assessed by Pearson’s and Spearman’s analyses.Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the association between the MHR and the risk of NAFLD.Results The MHR in patients with NAFLD was significantly greater than that in patients without NAFLD[0.52(0.44-0.67)versus 0.44(0.34-0.57),P<0.001].Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the MHR[odds ratio(OR):1.033,95%confidence interval(CI):1.015-1.051;P<0.001]was an independent predictor of NAFLD in childhood obesity patients,as were age(OR:1.205,95%CI:1.059-1.371;P=0.005],waist circumference[OR:1.037,95%CI:1.008-1.067;P=0.012],and alanine transaminase[OR:1.067,95%CI:1.045-1.089;P<0.001].Additionally,MHR quartiles showed a significant positive association with the incidence of NAFLD after adjusting for potential confounding factors.Conclusion The present study showed that the MHR may serve as an available and useful indicator of NAFLD in individuals with childhood obesity.
基金Supported by the Special Fund for Clinical Research of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital(No.2023-LCYJPY-37).
文摘AIM:To evaluate the relationship between monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(MHR)and the disease activity of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy(TAO).METHODS:A total of 87 patients were classified into two groups based on clinical activity score(CAS)scoring criteria:high CAS group(n=62,the CAS score was≥3);low CAS group(n=25,the CAS score was<3).In addition,a group of healthy people(n=114)were included to compared the MHR.Proptosis,MHR,average signal intensity ratio(SIR),average lacrimal gland(LG)-SIR,average extraocular muscles(EOM)area from 87 patients with TAO were calculated in magnetic resonance imaging(MRI),and compared between these two groups.Correlation testing was utilized to evaluate the association of parameters among the clinical variables.RESULTS:Patients in high CAS group had a higher proptosis(P=0.041)and MHR(P=0.048).Compared to the healthy group,the MHR in the TAO group was higher(P=0.001).Correlation testing declared that CAS score was strongly associated with proptosis and average SIR,and MHR was positively associated with CAS score,average SIR,and average LG-SIR.The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)of MHR was 0.6755.CONCLUSION:MHR,a novel inflammatory biomarker,has a significant association with CAS score and MRI imaging(average SIR and LG-SIR)and it can be a new promising predictor during the active phase of TAO.
基金Supported by the Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University Science Program for Fostering Young Scholars,No.YC20220113the Pilot Project for Public,No.Beijing Medical Research 2021-8.
文摘BACKGROUND Dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)are chronic conditions with substantial public health implications.Effective management of lipid metabolism in patients with T2DM is critical.However,there has been insufficient attention given to the relationship between thyroid hormone sensitivity and dyslipidemia in the T2DM population,particularly concerning non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(non-HDL-C).AIM To clarify the association between thyroid hormone sensitivity and dyslipidemia in patients with T2DM.METHODS In this cross-sectional study,thyroid hormone sensitivity indices,the thyroid feedback quantile-based index(TFQI),the thyroid-stimulating hormone index(TSHI),the thyrotrophic T4 resistance index(TT4RI),and the free triiodothyronine(FT3)/free thyroxine(FT4)ratio were calculated.Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the associations between those composite indices and non-HDL-C levels.Random forest variable importance and Shapley Additive Explanations(SHAP)summary plots were used to identify the strength and direction of the association between hyper-non-HDL-C and its major predictor.RESULTS Among the 994 participants,389(39.13%)had high non-HDL-C levels.Logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk of hyper-non-HDL-C was positively correlated with the TFQI(OR:1.584;95%CI:1.088-2.304;P=0.016),TSHI(OR:1.238;95%CI:1.034-1.482;P=0.02),and TT4RI(OR:1.075;95%CI:1.006-1.149;P=0.032)but was not significantly correlated with the FT3/FT4 ratio.The relationships between composite indices of the thyroid system and non-HDL-C levels differed according to sex.An increased risk of hyper-non-HDL-C was associated with elevated TSHI levels in men(OR:1.331;95%CI:1.003-1.766;P=0.048)but elevated TFQI levels in women(OR:2.337;95%CI:1.4-3.901;P=0.001).Among the analyzed variables,the average SHAP values were highest for TSHI,followed by TT4RI.CONCLUSION Impaired sensitivity to thyroid hormones was associated with high non-HDL-C levels in patients with T2DM.
基金The Sichuan Medical and Health Care Promotion Institute Research Project(KY2022SJ0100).
文摘Background:Helicobacter pylori(HP)is associated with several gastrointestinal diseases,including peptic ulcer diseases and gastric cancer,and non-gastrointestinal diseases such as hypertension and Alzheimer's disease.However,the relationship between HP and lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis remains unclear.This study aims to investigate the association between H.pylori infection and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and pulse wave conduction velocity.Methods:This is a report of a cross-sectional study that collected data from 2,827 participants.The data collected included results of life questionnaires,laboratory tests,13C-urea breath test(13C-UBT),and pulse wave conduction velocity test.Based on the results of the 13C-UBT test,the subjects were divided into two groups:the HP-uninfected group(HP−)and the HP-infected group(HP+).The study compared the differences in HDL-C levels and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV)between the two groups.One-way regression analysis was used to identify potential factors affecting HDL-C levels in the study population.Multiple regression equations were presented to analyze whether HP infection was an independent risk factor for abnormal HDL-C metabolism in the population.Results:Univariate analysis demonstrated that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C)levels were significantly lower in the HP+group compared to the HP−group,with a mean difference ofβ=−18.1 mg/dl(95%CI:−19.3 to−17.0,P<0.001).After adjusting for all variables,the HDL-C levels remained lower in the HP+group compared to the HP-group,with a mean difference ofβ=−17.4 mg/dl(95%CI:−18.2 to−16.7,P<0.001).These findings suggest that H.pylori infection is independently associated with abnormal HDL-C metabolism.Additionally,brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV)was higher in the HP+group than in the HP−group on both sides.On the right side,the baPWV was 1,713.4±231.4 cm/s in the HP+group compared to 1,542.8±237.5 cm/s in the HP−group(t=−18.30,P<0.001).On the left side,the baPWV was 1,743.7±238.8 cm/s in the HP+group compared to 1,562.8±256.3 cm/s in the HP−group(t=−18.23,P<0.001).These results indicate a significant association between H.pylori infection and increased arterial stiffness,as measured by baPWV.Conclusion:Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and an increase in pulse wave conduction velocity.
基金financially supported by the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province,No.2022RC1220(to WP)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation,No.2022M711733(to ZZ)+2 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82160920(to ZZ)Hebei Postdoctoral Scientific Research Project,No.B2022003040(to ZZ)Hunan Flagship Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine(to WP)。
文摘Alzheimer's disease,the primary cause of dementia,is characterized by neuropathologies,such as amyloid plaques,synaptic and neuronal degeneration,and neurofibrillary tangles.Although amyloid plaques are the primary characteristic of Alzheimer's disease in the central nervous system and peripheral organs,targeting amyloid-beta clearance in the central nervous system has shown limited clinical efficacy in Alzheimer's disease treatment.Metabolic abnormalities are commonly observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease.The liver is the primary peripheral organ involved in amyloid-beta metabolism,playing a crucial role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease.Notably,impaired cholesterol metabolism in the liver may exacerbate the development of Alzheimer's disease.In this review,we explore the underlying causes of Alzheimer's disease and elucidate the role of the liver in amyloid-beta clearance and cholesterol metabolism.Furthermore,we propose that restoring normal cholesterol metabolism in the liver could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for addressing Alzheimer's disease.
文摘Various previous studies have found a negative cor-relation between the risk of cardiovascular events and serum high-density lipoprotein(HDL) cholesterol levels. The reverse cholesterol transport, a pathway of choles-terol from peripheral tissue to liver which has several potent antiatherogenic properties. For instance, the particles of HDL mediate to transport cholesterol from cells in arterial tissues, particularly from atherosclerotic plaques, to the liver. Both ATP-binding cassette trans-porters(ABC) A1 and ABCG1 are membrane cholesterol transporters and have been implicated in mediating cholesterol effluxes from cells in the presence of HDL and apolipoprotein A-I, a major protein constituent of HDL. Previous studies demonstrated that ABCA1 and ABCG1 or the interaction between ABCA1 and ABCG1 exerted antiatherosclerotic effects. As a therapeutic approach for increasing HDL cholesterol levels, much focus has been placed on increasing HDL cholesterol levels as well as enhancing HDL biochemical functions. HDL therapies that use injections of reconstituted HDL, apoA-I mimetics, or full-length apoA-I have shown dramatic effectiveness. In particular, a novel apoA-I mi-metic peptide, Fukuoka University ApoA-I Mimetic Pep-tide, effectively removes cholesterol via specific ABCA1 and other transporters, such as ABCG1, and has an an-tiatherosclerotic effect by enhancing the biological func-tions of HDL without changing circulating HDL choles-terol levels. Thus, HDL-targeting therapy has significant atheroprotective potential, as it uses lipid transporter-targeting agents, and may prove to be a therapeutic tool for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
文摘Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), an pathologies characterized by fatty accumulation in escalating health problem worldwide, covers a spectrum of hepatocytes in early stages, with potential progression to liver inflammation, fibrosis, and failure. A close, yet poorly understood link exists between NAFLD and dyslipidemia, a constellation of abnormalities in plasma lipoproteins including triglyceride-rich very low density lipoproteins. Apolipoproteins are a group of primarily liver-derived proteins found in serum lipoproteins; they not only play an extracellular role in lipid transport between vital organs through circulation, but also play an important intracellu- lar role in hepatic lipoprotein assembly and secretion. The liver functions as the central hub for lipoprotein metab- olism, as it dictates lipoprotein production and to a significant extent modulates lipoprotein clearance. Lipoprotein metabolism is an integral component of hepatocellular lipid homeostasis and is implicated in the pathogenesis, potential diagnosis, and treatment of NAFLD.
基金This work was supported in part by funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30800845), the Natural Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars of Zhejiang Province (No. R3100105), and the NIH grants RR00169 and RR13439. We thank Dr. M. Anton for providing the detailed protocols of LDL and HDL extraction.
文摘Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) extracted from hen egg yolk has recently been considered to be superior to whole egg yolk in sperm cryopreservation of various animal species. Meanwhile, there was a notion that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in egg yolk may have a negative effect on post-thaw survival. The role of LDL and HDL in sperm cryopreservation of rhesus monkeys has not been explored. The present study evaluates their effect in comparison with egg yolk with or without the addition of permeable cryoprotectant (glycerol) on sperm cryopreservation of rhesus macaques. In addition, various additives intended to change the lipid composition of LDL-sperm membrane complex have also been tested for their effectiveness in preserving post-thaw viability. Our findings indicated that LDL is the main component in egg yolk that is responsible for its protective role for sperm cryopreservation in rhesus monkeys. Regardless of the presence or absence of glycerol, the protective role of LDL is similar to that of egg yolk and we did not observe any superiority in post-thaw survival with LDL when compared to egg yolk. Modifying the lipid composition of LDL-sperm membrane complex with the addition of cholesterol, cholesterol loaded cyclodextrin and phosphatidylcholine also did not yield any improvements in pest-thaw survival; while addition of methyl-β-cyclodextrin reduced post-thaw motility. HDL plays a neutral role in sperm cryopreservation of rhesus monkeys. The present study suggests that egg yolk may still hold advantages when compared with LDL as effective components in extenders for sperm cryopreservation in rhesus monkeys.
基金State Key Clinical Specialty Construction Project,China
文摘Objective PERK/elF2/CHOP is a major signaling pathway mediating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress related with atherosclerosis. Oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) also induces endothelial apoptosis and plays a vital role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. The present study was conducted to explore the regulatory effect of ox-LDL on PERK/elF2a/CHOP signaling pathway in vascular endothelial cells. Methods The effects of ox-LDL on PERK and p-elF2a protein expression of primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were investigated by Western blot analysis. PERK gene silencing and selective elF2a phosphatase inhibitor, salubrinal were used to inhibit the process of ox-LDL induced endothelial cell apoptosis, caspase-3 activity, and CHOP mRNA level. Results Ox-LDL treatment significantly increased the expression of PERK, PERK-mediated inactivation of elF2a phosphorylation, and the expression of CHOP, as well as the caspase-3 activity and apoptosis. The effects of ox-LDL were markedly decreased by knocking down PERK with stable transduction of lentiviral shRNA or by selective elF2a phosphatase inhibitor, salubrinal. Conclusion This study provides the first evidence that ox-LDL induces apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells mediated largely via the PERK/elF2a/CHOP ER-stress pathway. It adds new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis and progression of atherosclerosis.
基金supported by grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China [2016YFC1305202]Shanghai Sailing Program [17YF1416800]+1 种基金supported by the ‘Chenxing Plan’ of Shanghai Jiaotong University,Shuguang Program [15SG15]Gaofeng Clinical Medicine Grant Support [20152202] from Shanghai Municipal Education Commission
文摘Objective The association between lipoprotein(a)[Lp(a)] levels and metabolic syndrome(MetS) remains uncertain, especially in the Asian population. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the association between Lp(a) levels and MetS in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese cohort. Methods A cross-sectional study of 10,336 Chinese adults aged 40 years or older was conducted in Jiading District, Shanghai, China. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between serum Lp(a) levels and MetS. Results In the overall population, 37.5% of participants had MetS. Compared with individuals in the lowest quartile of serum Lp(a) levels, those in the highest quartile had a lower prevalence of MetS(30.9% vs. 46.9%, P for trend < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that compared with participants in the bottom quartile of serum Lp(a) levels, those in the top quartile had decreased odds ratio(OR) for prevalent MetS [multivariate-adjusted OR 0.45(95% confidence interval 0.39-0.51);P < 0.0001]. Additionally, Lp(a) level was conversely associated with the risk of central obesity, high fasting glucose, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol, but not with hypertension. Stratified analyses suggested that increasing levels of Lp(a) was associated with decreased risk of MetS in all the subgroups. Conclusion Serum Lp(a) level was inversely associated with the risk of prevalent MetS in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese cohort.
基金carried out as a Part of doctoral studies through the general research funding of the University
文摘Objective:To investigate the effect of lycopene on lipoprotein metabolism during D-galactosamine/lipopolysacchoride(D-Gal/LPS)induced hepatitis in experimentul rats.Methods:The efficacy of lycopene was validated during D-Gal/LPS induced hepatitis by analyzing the activity of lipid metabolizing enzymes such as lipoprotein lipase(LPL),lecithincholesterol acyl transferase(LCAT)and hepatic triglyceride lipase(HTCL).Lipo protein analyses were done by the estimation of very low density lipoprotein cholesterol(VLDL),low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL)and high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL).Remits:The toxic insult of D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide(D-Gal/LPS)in experimental group of animals reduces the normal values of lipid metabolizing enzymes due to liver injury.The significant drop in the levels of HDL and concomitant increase in the values of VLDL and LDL were observed.The pretreatment of lycopene restore these altered values to near normal level in experimental group of animals.Conclusions:In the light of results,it can be concluded that administration lycopene stabilizes the lipoprotein levels by regulating the lipid metabolizing enzymes through its antioxidant defense and helps to maintain the normal lipid metabolism during toxic injury in liver.
基金D.W.Z.is a Scholar of the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research and is supported in part by a Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator AwardZhang laboratory is supported by Canadian Foundation for Innovation,grants from a Grant-in-Aidfor Heart and Stroke Foundation of CanadaPfizer Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research(MOP 93794), and Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute
文摘Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. Plasma levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are positively correlated with the risk of atherosclerosis. High plasma LDL concentrations in patients with hypercholesterolemia lead to build-up of LDL in the inner walls of the arteries, which becomes oxidized and promotes the formation of foam cells, consequently initiating atherosclerosis. Plasma LDL is mainly cleared through the LDL receptor (LDLR) pathway. Mutations in the LDLR cause familiar hyperch- olesterolemia and increase the risk of premature coronary heart disease. The expression of LDLR is regulated at the transcriptional level via the sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP-2) and at the posttranslational levels mainly through proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin-type 9 (PCSK9) and inducible degrader of the LDLR (IDOL). In this review, we summarize the latest advances in the studies of PCSK9.
基金This project was supported by a grant from Provincial Outstanding Youth Program for Henan Province Committee of Sciences and Technology (No. 19972002).
文摘The effects of oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) on the proliferation of cultured human vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMC) were investigated in vitro. By using NaBr density gradient centrifugation, LDL was isolated and purified from human plasma. Ox-LDL was produced from LDL by being incubated with CuSO4. ox-LDL was then added to the culture medium at different concentrations (35, 60, 85, 110, 135 and 160μg/mL) for 7 days. The influence of ox-LDL on vSMC proliferation was observed in growth curve, mitosis index, and in situ determination of apoptosis. The data were analyzed with SPSS 10.0 software. The results showed that the ox-LDL produced in vitro had a good purity and optimal oxidative degree, which was similar to the intrinsic ox-LDL in atherosclerotic plaque, ox-LDL at a concentration of 35 μg/mL demonstrated the strongest proliferation inducement, and at a concentration of 135 μg/mL, ox-LDL could inhibit the growth of vSMC. ox-LDL at concentrations of 35 and 50 μg/mL presented powerful mitotic trigger, and with the increase of ox-LDL concentration, the mitotic index of vSMC was decreased gradually, ox-LDL at higher concentrations promoted more apoptotic vSMCs, ox-LDL at lower concentrations triggered proliferation of vSMCs, and at higher concentrations induced apoptosis in vSMCs, ox-LDL played a promotional role in the pathogenesis and development of atherosclerosis by affecting vSMC proliferation and apoptosis.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81372872 to J.Yang,81402215 to X.Du,and 81320108022 to K.Chen)funds from the University Cancer Foundation via the Sister Institution Network Fund at the Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital,Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center,and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Centersupported by the program for Innovative Research Team in University in China(IRT1076 to K.Chen)
文摘Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(LRP1,also known as CD91),a multifunctional endocytic and cell signaling receptor,is widely expressed on the surface of multiple cell types such as hepatocytes,fibroblasts,neurons,astrocytes,macrophages,smooth muscle cells,and malignant cells.Emerging in vitro and in vivo evidence demonstrates that LRP1 is critically involved in many processes that drive tumorigenesis and tumor progression.For example,LRP1 not only promotes tumor cell migration and invasion by regulating matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-2and MMP-9 expression and functions but also inhibits cell apoptosis by regulating the insulin receptor,the serine/threonine protein kinase signaling pathway,and the expression of Caspase-3.LRPI-mediated phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway and c-jun N-terminal kinase are also involved in tumor cell proliferation and invasion.In addition,LRP1 has been shown to be down-regulated by microRNA-205 and methylation of LRP1CpG islands.Furthermore,a novel fusion gene,LRP1-SNRNP25,promotes osteosarcoma cell invasion and migration.Only by understanding the mechanisms of these effects can we develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cancers mediated by LRP1.
基金Supported by The Ministry of Education,Culture,Sports,Science and Technology to Hitomi Imachi,Koji Murao,Japan,Nos.24591352,15K09415National Natural Science Foundation of China to Huanxiang Zhang,Nos.31371407 and 31071220
文摘Infection by hepatitis C virus(HCV), a plus-stranded RNA virus that can cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, is one of the major health problems in the world. HCV infection is considered as a multistep complex process and correlated with abnormal metabolism of lipoprotein. In addition, virus attacks hepatocytes by the initial attaching viral envelop glycoprotein E1/E2 to receptors of lipoproteins on host cells. With the development of HCV model system, mechanisms of HCV cell entry through lipoprotein uptake and its receptor have been extensively studied in detail. Here we summarize recent knowledge about the role of lipoprotein receptors, scavenger receptor class B type Ⅰ and low-density lipoprotein receptor in the entry of HCV, providing a foundation of novel targeting therapeutic tools against HCV infection.