Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 2(LRP2)is a multifunctional endocytic receptor expressed in epithelial cells.In mammals,it acts as an endocytic receptor that mediates the cellular uptake of cholestero...Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 2(LRP2)is a multifunctional endocytic receptor expressed in epithelial cells.In mammals,it acts as an endocytic receptor that mediates the cellular uptake of cholesterol-containing apolipoproteins to maintain lipid homeostasis.However,little is known about the role of LRP2 in lipid homeostasis in insects.In the present study,we investigated the function of LRP2 in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria(LmLRP2).The mRNA of LmLRP2 is widely distributed in various tissues,including integument,wing pads,foregut,midgut,hindgut,Malpighian tubules and fat body,and the amounts of LmLRP2 transcripts decreased gradually in the early stages and then increased in the late stages before ecdysis during the nymphal developmental stage.Fluorescence immunohistochemistry revealed that the LmLRP2 protein is mainly located in cellular membranes of the midgut and hindgut.Using RNAi to silence LmLRP2 caused molting defects in nymphs(more than 60%),and the neutral lipid was found to accumulate in the midgut and surface of the integument,but not in the fat body,of dsLmLRP2-treated nymphs.The results of a lipidomics analysis showed that the main components of lipids(diglyceride and triglyceride)were significantly increased in the midgut,but decreased in the fat body and hemolymph.Furthermore,the content of total triglyceride was significantly increased in the midgut,but markedly decreased in the fat body and hemolymph in dsLmLRP2-injected nymphs.Our results indicate that LmLRP2 is located in the cellular membranes of midgut cells,and is required for lipid export from the midgut to the hemolymphand fat body in locusts.展开更多
Walnut dreg protein hydrolysates(WDPHs)exhibit a variety of biological activities,however,the cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)inhibitory peptide of WDPHs remain unclear.The aim of this study was to rapidly screen for such pept...Walnut dreg protein hydrolysates(WDPHs)exhibit a variety of biological activities,however,the cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)inhibitory peptide of WDPHs remain unclear.The aim of this study was to rapidly screen for such peptides in WDPHs through a combination of in silico and in vitro analysis.In total,1262 peptide sequences were observed by nano liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry(nano LC-MS/MS)and 4 novel COX-2 inhibitory peptides(AGFP,FPGA,LFPD,and VGFP)were identified.Enzyme kinetic data indicated that AGFP,FPGA,and LFPD displayed mixed-type COX-2 inhibition,whereas VGFP was a non-competitive inhibitor.This is mainly because the peptides form hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions with residues in the COX-2 active site.These results demonstrate that computer analysis combined with in vitro evaluation allows for rapid screening of COX-2 inhibitory peptides in walnut protein dregs.展开更多
BACKGROUND Thrombocytopenia 2,an autosomal dominant inherited disease characterized by moderate thrombocytopenia,predisposition to myeloid malignancies and normal platelet size and function,can be caused by 5’-untran...BACKGROUND Thrombocytopenia 2,an autosomal dominant inherited disease characterized by moderate thrombocytopenia,predisposition to myeloid malignancies and normal platelet size and function,can be caused by 5’-untranslated region(UTR)point mutations in ankyrin repeat domain containing 26(ANKRD26).Runt related transcription factor 1(RUNX1)and friend leukemia integration 1(FLI1)have been identified as negative regulators of ANKRD26.However,the positive regulators of ANKRD26 are still unknown.AIM To prove the positive regulatory effect of GATA binding protein 2(GATA2)on ANKRD26 transcription.METHODS Human induced pluripotent stem cells derived from bone marrow(hiPSC-BM)INTRODUCTION Ankyrin repeat domain containing protein 26(ANKRD26)acts as a regulator of adipogenesis and is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior[1-3].The ANKRD26 gene is located on chromosome 10 and shares regions of homology with the primate-specific gene family POTE.According to the Human Protein Atlas database,the ANKRD26 protein is localized to the Golgi apparatus and vesicles,and its expression can be detected in nearly all human tissues[4].Moreover,UniProt annotation revealed that ANKRD26 is localized in the centrosome and contains coiled-coil domains formed by spectrin helices and ankyrin repeats[5,6].The most common disease related to ANKRD26 is thrombocytopenia 2(THC2),which is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disease characterized by lifelong mild-to-moderate thrombocytopenia and mild bleeding[7-9].Caused by the variants in the 5’-untranslated region(UTR)of ANKRD26,THC2 is defined by a decrease in the number of platelets in circulating blood and results in increased bleeding and decreased clotting ability[8,10].Due to the point mutations that occur in the 5’-UTR of ANKRD26,its negative transcription factors(TFs),Runt related transcription factor 1(RUNX1)and friend leukemia integration 1(FLI1),lose their repression effect[11].The persistent expression of ANKRD26 increases the activity of the mitogen activated protein kinase and extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways,which are potentially involved in the regulation of thrombopoietin-dependent signaling and further impair proplatelet formation by megakaryocytes(MKs)[11].However,the positive regulators of ANKRD26,which might be associated with THC2 pathology,are still unknown.展开更多
BACKGROUND Recently,type 2 diabetic osteoporosis(T2DOP)has become a research hotspot for the complications of diabetes,but the specific mechanism of its occurrence and development remains unknown.Ferroptosis caused by...BACKGROUND Recently,type 2 diabetic osteoporosis(T2DOP)has become a research hotspot for the complications of diabetes,but the specific mechanism of its occurrence and development remains unknown.Ferroptosis caused by iron overload is con-sidered an important cause of T2DOP.Polycytosine RNA-binding protein 1(PCBP1),an iron ion chaperone,is considered a protector of ferroptosis.AIM To investigate the existence of ferroptosis and specific role of PCBP1 in the development of type 2 diabetes.METHODS A cell counting kit-8 assay was used to detect changes in osteoblast viability under high glucose(HG)and/or ferroptosis inhibitors at different concentrations and times.Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine the morpho-logical changes in the mitochondria of osteoblasts under HG,and western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of PCBP1,ferritin,and the ferroptosis-related protein glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4).A lentivirus silenced and overex-pressed PCBP1.Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of the osteoblast functional proteins osteoprotegerin(OPG)and osteocalcin(OCN),whereas flow cytometry was used to detect changes in reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels in each group.RESULTS Under HG,the viability of osteoblasts was considerably decreased,the number of mitochondria undergoing atrophy was considerably increased,PCBP1 and ferritin expression levels were increased,and GPX4 expression was decreased.Western blotting results demonstrated that infection with lentivirus overexpressing PCBP1,increased the expression levels of ferritin,GPX4,OPG,and OCN,compared with the HG group.Flow cytometry results showed a reduction in ROS,and an opposite result was obtained after silencing PCBP1.CONCLUSION PCBP1 may protect osteoblasts and reduce the harm caused by ferroptosis by promoting ferritin expression under a HG environment.Moreover,PCBP1 may be a potential therapeutic target for T2DOP.展开更多
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC)is one of the most aggressive solid malignancies.A specific mechanism of its metastasis has not been established.In this study,we investigated whether Neural Wiskott-Aldrich syndr...Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC)is one of the most aggressive solid malignancies.A specific mechanism of its metastasis has not been established.In this study,we investigated whether Neural Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein(N-WASP)plays a role in distant metastasis of PDAC.We found that N-WASP is markedly expressed in clinical patients with PDAC.Clinical analysis showed a notably more distant metastatic pattern in the N-WASP-high group compared to the N-WASP-low group.N-WASP was noted to be a novel mediator of epithelialmesenchymal transition(EMT)via gene expression profile studies.Knockdown of N-WASP in pancreatic cancer cells significantly inhibited cell invasion,migration,and EMT.We also observed positive association of lysyl oxidase-like 2(LOXL2)and focal adhesion kinase(FAK)with the N-WASP-mediated response,wherein EMT and invadopodia function were modulated.Both N-WASP and LOXL2 depletion significantly reduced the incidence of liver and lung metastatic lesions in orthotopic mouse models of pancreatic cancer.These results elucidate a novel role for N-WASP signaling associated with LOXL2 in EMT and invadopodia function,with respect to regulation of intercellular communication in tumor cells for promoting pancreatic cancer metastasis.These findings may aid in the development of therapeutic strategies against pancreatic cancer.展开更多
In this editorial,we comment on the article by Liu et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Diabetes(Relationship between GCKR gene rs780094 polymorphism and type 2 diabetes with albuminuria).Type 2...In this editorial,we comment on the article by Liu et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Diabetes(Relationship between GCKR gene rs780094 polymorphism and type 2 diabetes with albuminuria).Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is a chronic disorder characterized by dysregulated glucose homeostasis.The persistent elevated blood glucose level in T2DM significantly increases the risk of developing severe complications,including cardiovascular disease,re-tinopathy,neuropathy,and nephropathy.T2DM arises from a complex interplay between genetic,epigenetic,and environmental factors.Global genomic studies have identified numerous genetic variations associated with an increased risk of T2DM.Specifically,variations within the glucokinase regulatory protein(GCKR)gene have been linked to heightened susceptibility to T2DM and its associated complications.The clinical trial by Liu et al further elucidates the role of the GCKR rs780094 polymorphism in T2DM and nephropathy development.Their findings demonstrate that individuals carrying the CT or TT genotype at the GCKR rs780094 locus are at a higher risk of developing T2DM with albuminuria compared to those with the CC genotype.These findings highlight the importance of genetic testing and risk assessment in T2DM to develop effective preventive strategies and personalized treatment plans.展开更多
Fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are communal tumors of the muscle or uterine wall that affect about 20% of females who are of reproductive age. They can look as if singly or in clusters, and they often cea...Fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are communal tumors of the muscle or uterine wall that affect about 20% of females who are of reproductive age. They can look as if singly or in clusters, and they often cease to grow after menopause. Fibroids can be classified as intramural, sub serosal, pedunculated, or submucosal based on where they are positioned in the uterus. Although fibroids are benign, they can grow quickly and cause a range of symptoms, such as pelvic pressure, heavy menstrual flow, and infertility. As a result, fibroids are a main reason behind hysterectomy surgeries. The majority of cases of breast cancer are ductal and lobular cancers, making it the second utmost common cancer in women international. Gene mutations like those in BRCA1 or BRCA2 knowingly raise the risk of breast and other cancers, typically with an earlier cancer onset. Cancer risk is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic abnormalities, environmental factors, and lifestyle selections. Further research into these relations is domineering. Although they are common in uterine leiomyomas, especially multiple leiomyomas, MED12 mutations do not significantly correlate with tumor size. These mutations have also been noticed in smooth muscle tumors and leiomyosarcomas, two other types of uterine cancer. The identification of MED12 mutations as the sole genetic abnormality originates in leiomyomas raises the opportunity of a role in the genesis of cancer. 10% - 15% of women who are of reproductive age have endometriosis, which grants serious difficulties because of its chronic nature and range of clinical symptoms. Even after effective surgeries, issues reoccur often, adding to the enormous financial burden. The effects of MED12 mutations have been experiential in recent studies examining the molecular causes of endometriosis-associated infertility, which have shown anomalies in cellular connections and signaling cascades. Computational techniques were used in this study to investigate LifeGreenTM’s potential to prevent uterine fibroids and breast cancer. The efficacy of LifeGreenTM as a preventive measure or a treatment for common gynecological matters was examined and modeled. We investigated the mechanisms underlying LifeGreenTM’s benefits in the treatment of uterine fibroids and breast cancer using computational techniques. Our research contributes to our understanding of its potential therapeutic benefits for women’s health.展开更多
Reconstituting membrane proteins in liposomes and determining their structure is a common method for determining membrane protein structures using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy(cryo-EM).However,the strong s...Reconstituting membrane proteins in liposomes and determining their structure is a common method for determining membrane protein structures using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy(cryo-EM).However,the strong signal of liposomes under cryo-EM imaging conditions often interferes with the structural determination of the embedded membrane proteins.Here,we propose a liposome signal subtraction method based on single-particle two-dimensional(2D)classification average images,aimed at enhancing the reconstruction resolution of membrane proteins.We analyzed the signal distribution characteristics of liposomes and proteins within the 2D classification average images of protein–liposome complexes in the frequency domain.Based on this analysis,we designed a method to subtract the liposome signals from the original particle images.After the subtraction,the accuracy of single-particle three-dimensional(3D)alignment was improved,enhancing the resolution of the final 3D reconstruction.We demonstrated this method using a PIEZO1-proteoliposome dataset by improving the resolution of the PIEZO1 protein.展开更多
Background:Jiaohong pills(JHP)consist of Pericarpium Zanthoxyli(PZ)and Radix Rehmanniae,two herbs that have been extensively investigated over many years due to their potential protective effects against cognitive dec...Background:Jiaohong pills(JHP)consist of Pericarpium Zanthoxyli(PZ)and Radix Rehmanniae,two herbs that have been extensively investigated over many years due to their potential protective effects against cognitive decline and memory impairment.However,the precise mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects remain elusive.Here,research studies were conducted to investigate and validate the therapeutic effects of JHP on Alzheimer's disease.Methods:BV-2 cell inflammation was induced by lipopolysaccharide.AD mice were administered amyloid-β(Aβ).Behavioral experiments were used to evaluate learning and memory ability.The levels of nitric oxide(NO),tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α),interleukin-1β(IL-1β),and interleukin-10(IL-10)were detected using enzymelinked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).The protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)and the phosphorylation level of mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)and nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB)were detected using Western blot.Nissl staining was used to detect neuronal degeneration.Results:The results demonstrated that an alcoholic extract of PZ significantly decreased the levels of NO,IL-1β,TNF-α,and iNOS;increased the expression level of IL-10;and significantly decreased the phosphorylation levels of MAPK and NF-κB.These inhibitory effects were further confirmed in the AD mouse model.Meanwhile,JHP improved learning and memory function in AD mice,reduced neuronal damage,and enriched the Nissl bodies in the hippocampus.Moreover,IL-1βand TNF-αin the cortex were significantly downregulated after JHP administration,whereas IL-10showed increased expression.Conclusions:It was found that JHP reduced neuroinflammatory response in AD mice by targeting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway.展开更多
BACKGROUND The incidence of primary liver cancer is increasing year by year.In 2022 alone,more than 900000 people were diagnosed with liver cancer worldwide,with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)accounting for 75%-85%of c...BACKGROUND The incidence of primary liver cancer is increasing year by year.In 2022 alone,more than 900000 people were diagnosed with liver cancer worldwide,with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)accounting for 75%-85%of cases.HCC is the most common primary liver cancer.China has the highest incidence and mortality rate of HCC in the world,and it is one of the malignant tumors that seriously threaten the health of Chinese people.The onset of liver cancer is occult,the early cases lack typical clinical symptoms,and most of the patients are already in the middle and late stage when diagnosed.Therefore,it is very important to find new markers for the early detection and diagnosis of liver cancer,improve the therapeutic effect,and improve the prognosis of patients.Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor 2(PTPN2)has been shown to be associated with colorectal cancer,triple-negative breast cancer,non-small cell lung cancer,and prostate cancer,but its biological role and function in tumors remain to be further studied.AIM To combine the results of relevant data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)to provide the first in-depth analysis of the biological role of PTPN2 in HCC.METHODS The expression of PTPN2 in HCC was first analyzed based on the TCGA database,and the findings were then verified by immunohistochemical staining,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),and immunoblotting.The value of PTPN2 in predicting the survival of patients with HCC was assessed by analyzing the relationship between PTPN2 expression in HCC tissues and clinicopathological features.Finally,the potential of PTPN2 affecting immune escape of liver cancer was evaluated by tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion and immunohistochemical staining.RESULTS The results of immunohistochemical staining,qRT-PCR,and immunoblotting in combination with TCGA database analysis showed that PTPN2 was highly expressed and associated with a poor prognosis in HCC patients.Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis showed that PTPN2 was associated with various pathways,including cancer-related pathways,the Notch signaling pathway,and the MAPK signaling pathway.Gene Set Enrichment Analysis showed that PTPN2 was highly expressed in various immune-related pathways,such as the epithelial mesenchymal transition process.A risk model score based on PTPN2 showed that immune escape was significantly enhanced in the high-risk group compared with the low-risk group.CONCLUSION This study investigated PTPN2 from multiple biological perspectives,revealing that PTPN2 can function as a biomarker of poor prognosis and mediate immune evasion in HCC.展开更多
Developing effective and long-term treatment strategies for rare and complex neurodegenerative diseases is challenging. One of the major roadblocks is the extensive heterogeneity among patients. This hinders understan...Developing effective and long-term treatment strategies for rare and complex neurodegenerative diseases is challenging. One of the major roadblocks is the extensive heterogeneity among patients. This hinders understanding the underlying disease-causing mechanisms and building solutions that have implications for a broad spectrum of patients. One potential solution is to develop personalized medicine approaches based on strategies that target the most prevalent cellular events that are perturbed in patients. Especially in patients with a known genetic mutation, it may be possible to understand how these mutations contribute to problems that lead to neurodegeneration. Protein–protein interaction analyses offer great advantages for revealing how proteins interact, which cellular events are primarily involved in these interactions, and how they become affected when key genes are mutated in patients. This line of investigation also suggests novel druggable targets for patients with different mutations. Here, we focus on alsin and spastin, two proteins that are identified as “causative” for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and hereditary spastic paraplegia, respectively, when mutated. Our review analyzes the protein interactome for alsin and spastin, the canonical pathways that are primarily important for each protein domain, as well as compounds that are either Food and Drug Administration–approved or are in active clinical trials concerning the affected cellular pathways. This line of research begins to pave the way for personalized medicine approaches that are desperately needed for rare neurodegenerative diseases that are complex and heterogeneous.展开更多
BACKGROUND Retinopathy is the most common microvascular disease of type 2 diabetes,and seriously threatens the life,health and quality of life of patients.It is worth noting that the development of diabetic retinopath...BACKGROUND Retinopathy is the most common microvascular disease of type 2 diabetes,and seriously threatens the life,health and quality of life of patients.It is worth noting that the development of diabetic retinopathy(DR)can be hidden,with few symptoms.Therefore,the preliminary screening of diabetic patients should identify DR as soon as possible,delay disease progression,and play a vital role in its diagnosis and treatment.AIM To investigate the correlation between glycated hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c),urinary microalbumin(U-mALB),urinary creatinine(U-CR),mALB/U-CR ratio,β2 microglobulin(β2MG),retinol binding protein(RBP)and DR.METHODS A total of 180 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending the Second People’s Hospital of Hefei from January 2022 to August 2022 were retrospectively enrolled by ophthalmologists.Based on whether they had combined retinopathy and its degree,68 patients with diabetes mellitus without retinopathy(NDR)were assigned to the NDR group,54 patients with non-proliferative DR(NPDR)to the NPDR group,and 58 patients with proliferative DR to the PDR group.General data,and HbA1c,mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and U-CR results were collected from the patients and compared among the groups.Pearson's correlation method was used to analyze the correlation between HbA1c,mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and U-CR indices,and multiple linear regression was applied to identify the risk factors for DR.Receiver operator characteristic(ROC)curves were also drawn.RESULTS The differences in age,gender,systolic and diastolic blood pressure between the groups were not statistically significantly(P>0.05),but the difference in disease duration was statistically significant(P<0.05).The differences in fasting blood glucose,high-density lipoprotein cholesterol,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,total cholesterol,and triglyceride between the groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).HbA1c in the PDR group was higher than that in the NPDR and NDR groups(P<0.05).The levels of mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and UCR in the PDR group were higher than those in the NPDR and NDR groups(P<0.05).Multiple linear regression analysis showed that disease duration,HbA1c,mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and U-CR were risk factors for the development of DR.The ROC curve showed that the area under the curve(AUC)for the combination of indices(HbA1c+mALB+mALB/U-CR+U-CR+β2MG+RBP)was 0.958,with a sensitivity of 94.83%and specificity of 96.72%,which was higher than the AUC for single index prediction(P<0.05).CONCLUSION HbA1c,mALB,mALB/U-CR,U-CR,β2MG and RBP can reflect the development of DR and are risk factors affecting PDR,and the combination of these six indices has predictive value for PDR.展开更多
BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is a major health burden with an increasing global incidence.Unfortunately,the unavailability of knowledge underlying NAFLD pathogenesis inhibits effective preventive...BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is a major health burden with an increasing global incidence.Unfortunately,the unavailability of knowledge underlying NAFLD pathogenesis inhibits effective preventive and therapeutic measures.AIM To explore the molecular mechanism of NAFLD.METHODS Whole genome sequencing(WGS)analysis was performed on liver tissues from patients with NAFLD(n=6)and patients with normal metabolic conditions(n=6)to identify the target genes.A NAFLD C57BL6/J mouse model induced by 16 wk of high-fat diet feeding and a hepatocyte-specific F-box only protein 2(FBXO2)overexpression mouse model were used for in vivo studies.Plasmid transfection,co-immunoprecipitation-based mass spectrometry assays,and ubiquitination in HepG2 cells and HEK293T cells were used for in vitro studies.RESULTS A total of 30982 genes were detected in WGS analysis,with 649 up-regulated and 178 down-regulated.Expression of FBXO2,an E3 ligase,was upregulated in the liver tissues of patients with NAFLD.Hepatocyte-specific FBXO2 overexpression facilitated NAFLD-associated phenotypes in mice.Overexpression of FBXO2 aggravated odium oleate(OA)-induced lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells,resulting in an abnormal expression of genes related to lipid metabolism,such as fatty acid synthase,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha,and so on.In contrast,knocking down FBXO2 in HepG2 cells significantly alleviated the OA-induced lipid accumulation and aberrant expression of lipid metabolism genes.The hydroxyl CoA dehydrogenase alpha subunit(HADHA),a protein involved in oxidative stress,was a target of FBXO2-mediated ubiquitination.FBXO2 directly bound to HADHA and facilitated its proteasomal degradation in HepG2 and HEK293T cells.Supplementation with HADHA alleviated lipid accumulation caused by FBXO2 overexpression in HepG2 cells.CONCLUSION FBXO2 exacerbates lipid accumulation by targeting HADHA and is a potential therapeutic target for NAFLD。展开更多
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (2022YFE0196200)the National Natural Science Foundation of China–Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft of Germany (31761133021)+3 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31970469 and 31701794)the earmarked fund for Modern Agro-industry Technology Research System, China (2023CYJSTX01-20)the Scientific and Technological Innovation Programs of Higher Education Institutions in Shanxi, China (2017104)the Fund for Shanxi “1331 Project”, China
文摘Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 2(LRP2)is a multifunctional endocytic receptor expressed in epithelial cells.In mammals,it acts as an endocytic receptor that mediates the cellular uptake of cholesterol-containing apolipoproteins to maintain lipid homeostasis.However,little is known about the role of LRP2 in lipid homeostasis in insects.In the present study,we investigated the function of LRP2 in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria(LmLRP2).The mRNA of LmLRP2 is widely distributed in various tissues,including integument,wing pads,foregut,midgut,hindgut,Malpighian tubules and fat body,and the amounts of LmLRP2 transcripts decreased gradually in the early stages and then increased in the late stages before ecdysis during the nymphal developmental stage.Fluorescence immunohistochemistry revealed that the LmLRP2 protein is mainly located in cellular membranes of the midgut and hindgut.Using RNAi to silence LmLRP2 caused molting defects in nymphs(more than 60%),and the neutral lipid was found to accumulate in the midgut and surface of the integument,but not in the fat body,of dsLmLRP2-treated nymphs.The results of a lipidomics analysis showed that the main components of lipids(diglyceride and triglyceride)were significantly increased in the midgut,but decreased in the fat body and hemolymph.Furthermore,the content of total triglyceride was significantly increased in the midgut,but markedly decreased in the fat body and hemolymph in dsLmLRP2-injected nymphs.Our results indicate that LmLRP2 is located in the cellular membranes of midgut cells,and is required for lipid export from the midgut to the hemolymphand fat body in locusts.
基金supported by the Major Project of Science and Technology Department of Yunnan Province (202002AA100005 and 202102AE090027-2)the Project of Yunnan Province Food and Drug Homologous Resources Functional Food Innovation Team (A3032023057)+2 种基金the YEFICRC project of Yunnan provincial key programs (2019ZG009)Yunnan Province Ten Thousand Plan Industrial Technology Talents project (YNWR-CYJS-2020-010)the Yunnan Provincial Department of Science and Technology Agricultural Joint Special Project (202101BD070001-120)。
文摘Walnut dreg protein hydrolysates(WDPHs)exhibit a variety of biological activities,however,the cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)inhibitory peptide of WDPHs remain unclear.The aim of this study was to rapidly screen for such peptides in WDPHs through a combination of in silico and in vitro analysis.In total,1262 peptide sequences were observed by nano liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry(nano LC-MS/MS)and 4 novel COX-2 inhibitory peptides(AGFP,FPGA,LFPD,and VGFP)were identified.Enzyme kinetic data indicated that AGFP,FPGA,and LFPD displayed mixed-type COX-2 inhibition,whereas VGFP was a non-competitive inhibitor.This is mainly because the peptides form hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions with residues in the COX-2 active site.These results demonstrate that computer analysis combined with in vitro evaluation allows for rapid screening of COX-2 inhibitory peptides in walnut protein dregs.
基金Supported by General Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81770197Scientific and Technological Research Major Program of Chongqing Municipal Education Commission,No.KJZD-M202312802+1 种基金Chongqing Natural Science Foundation of China,No.CSTB2022NSCQ-MSX0190,No.CSTB2022NSCQ-MSX0176,and No.cstc2020jcyj-msxmX0051Xinqiao Young Postdoc Talent Incubation Program,No.2022YQB098.
文摘BACKGROUND Thrombocytopenia 2,an autosomal dominant inherited disease characterized by moderate thrombocytopenia,predisposition to myeloid malignancies and normal platelet size and function,can be caused by 5’-untranslated region(UTR)point mutations in ankyrin repeat domain containing 26(ANKRD26).Runt related transcription factor 1(RUNX1)and friend leukemia integration 1(FLI1)have been identified as negative regulators of ANKRD26.However,the positive regulators of ANKRD26 are still unknown.AIM To prove the positive regulatory effect of GATA binding protein 2(GATA2)on ANKRD26 transcription.METHODS Human induced pluripotent stem cells derived from bone marrow(hiPSC-BM)INTRODUCTION Ankyrin repeat domain containing protein 26(ANKRD26)acts as a regulator of adipogenesis and is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior[1-3].The ANKRD26 gene is located on chromosome 10 and shares regions of homology with the primate-specific gene family POTE.According to the Human Protein Atlas database,the ANKRD26 protein is localized to the Golgi apparatus and vesicles,and its expression can be detected in nearly all human tissues[4].Moreover,UniProt annotation revealed that ANKRD26 is localized in the centrosome and contains coiled-coil domains formed by spectrin helices and ankyrin repeats[5,6].The most common disease related to ANKRD26 is thrombocytopenia 2(THC2),which is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disease characterized by lifelong mild-to-moderate thrombocytopenia and mild bleeding[7-9].Caused by the variants in the 5’-untranslated region(UTR)of ANKRD26,THC2 is defined by a decrease in the number of platelets in circulating blood and results in increased bleeding and decreased clotting ability[8,10].Due to the point mutations that occur in the 5’-UTR of ANKRD26,its negative transcription factors(TFs),Runt related transcription factor 1(RUNX1)and friend leukemia integration 1(FLI1),lose their repression effect[11].The persistent expression of ANKRD26 increases the activity of the mitogen activated protein kinase and extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways,which are potentially involved in the regulation of thrombopoietin-dependent signaling and further impair proplatelet formation by megakaryocytes(MKs)[11].However,the positive regulators of ANKRD26,which might be associated with THC2 pathology,are still unknown.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81471094 and No.82202743.
文摘BACKGROUND Recently,type 2 diabetic osteoporosis(T2DOP)has become a research hotspot for the complications of diabetes,but the specific mechanism of its occurrence and development remains unknown.Ferroptosis caused by iron overload is con-sidered an important cause of T2DOP.Polycytosine RNA-binding protein 1(PCBP1),an iron ion chaperone,is considered a protector of ferroptosis.AIM To investigate the existence of ferroptosis and specific role of PCBP1 in the development of type 2 diabetes.METHODS A cell counting kit-8 assay was used to detect changes in osteoblast viability under high glucose(HG)and/or ferroptosis inhibitors at different concentrations and times.Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine the morpho-logical changes in the mitochondria of osteoblasts under HG,and western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of PCBP1,ferritin,and the ferroptosis-related protein glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4).A lentivirus silenced and overex-pressed PCBP1.Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of the osteoblast functional proteins osteoprotegerin(OPG)and osteocalcin(OCN),whereas flow cytometry was used to detect changes in reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels in each group.RESULTS Under HG,the viability of osteoblasts was considerably decreased,the number of mitochondria undergoing atrophy was considerably increased,PCBP1 and ferritin expression levels were increased,and GPX4 expression was decreased.Western blotting results demonstrated that infection with lentivirus overexpressing PCBP1,increased the expression levels of ferritin,GPX4,OPG,and OCN,compared with the HG group.Flow cytometry results showed a reduction in ROS,and an opposite result was obtained after silencing PCBP1.CONCLUSION PCBP1 may protect osteoblasts and reduce the harm caused by ferroptosis by promoting ferritin expression under a HG environment.Moreover,PCBP1 may be a potential therapeutic target for T2DOP.
基金supported by a National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)grant funded by the Korean Government,Ministry of Science and ICT(MSIT)(2016R1C1B102207,2022R1A2C1004141 and 2022R1A2C-1091712)the National R&D Program for Cancer Control through the National Cancer Center(NCC)funded by the Ministry of Health&Welfare,Republic of Korea(HA22C0053000022).
文摘Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC)is one of the most aggressive solid malignancies.A specific mechanism of its metastasis has not been established.In this study,we investigated whether Neural Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein(N-WASP)plays a role in distant metastasis of PDAC.We found that N-WASP is markedly expressed in clinical patients with PDAC.Clinical analysis showed a notably more distant metastatic pattern in the N-WASP-high group compared to the N-WASP-low group.N-WASP was noted to be a novel mediator of epithelialmesenchymal transition(EMT)via gene expression profile studies.Knockdown of N-WASP in pancreatic cancer cells significantly inhibited cell invasion,migration,and EMT.We also observed positive association of lysyl oxidase-like 2(LOXL2)and focal adhesion kinase(FAK)with the N-WASP-mediated response,wherein EMT and invadopodia function were modulated.Both N-WASP and LOXL2 depletion significantly reduced the incidence of liver and lung metastatic lesions in orthotopic mouse models of pancreatic cancer.These results elucidate a novel role for N-WASP signaling associated with LOXL2 in EMT and invadopodia function,with respect to regulation of intercellular communication in tumor cells for promoting pancreatic cancer metastasis.These findings may aid in the development of therapeutic strategies against pancreatic cancer.
基金Supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences(KFAS)and Dasman Diabetes Institute,No.RACB-2021-007.
文摘In this editorial,we comment on the article by Liu et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Diabetes(Relationship between GCKR gene rs780094 polymorphism and type 2 diabetes with albuminuria).Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is a chronic disorder characterized by dysregulated glucose homeostasis.The persistent elevated blood glucose level in T2DM significantly increases the risk of developing severe complications,including cardiovascular disease,re-tinopathy,neuropathy,and nephropathy.T2DM arises from a complex interplay between genetic,epigenetic,and environmental factors.Global genomic studies have identified numerous genetic variations associated with an increased risk of T2DM.Specifically,variations within the glucokinase regulatory protein(GCKR)gene have been linked to heightened susceptibility to T2DM and its associated complications.The clinical trial by Liu et al further elucidates the role of the GCKR rs780094 polymorphism in T2DM and nephropathy development.Their findings demonstrate that individuals carrying the CT or TT genotype at the GCKR rs780094 locus are at a higher risk of developing T2DM with albuminuria compared to those with the CC genotype.These findings highlight the importance of genetic testing and risk assessment in T2DM to develop effective preventive strategies and personalized treatment plans.
文摘Fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are communal tumors of the muscle or uterine wall that affect about 20% of females who are of reproductive age. They can look as if singly or in clusters, and they often cease to grow after menopause. Fibroids can be classified as intramural, sub serosal, pedunculated, or submucosal based on where they are positioned in the uterus. Although fibroids are benign, they can grow quickly and cause a range of symptoms, such as pelvic pressure, heavy menstrual flow, and infertility. As a result, fibroids are a main reason behind hysterectomy surgeries. The majority of cases of breast cancer are ductal and lobular cancers, making it the second utmost common cancer in women international. Gene mutations like those in BRCA1 or BRCA2 knowingly raise the risk of breast and other cancers, typically with an earlier cancer onset. Cancer risk is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic abnormalities, environmental factors, and lifestyle selections. Further research into these relations is domineering. Although they are common in uterine leiomyomas, especially multiple leiomyomas, MED12 mutations do not significantly correlate with tumor size. These mutations have also been noticed in smooth muscle tumors and leiomyosarcomas, two other types of uterine cancer. The identification of MED12 mutations as the sole genetic abnormality originates in leiomyomas raises the opportunity of a role in the genesis of cancer. 10% - 15% of women who are of reproductive age have endometriosis, which grants serious difficulties because of its chronic nature and range of clinical symptoms. Even after effective surgeries, issues reoccur often, adding to the enormous financial burden. The effects of MED12 mutations have been experiential in recent studies examining the molecular causes of endometriosis-associated infertility, which have shown anomalies in cellular connections and signaling cascades. Computational techniques were used in this study to investigate LifeGreenTM’s potential to prevent uterine fibroids and breast cancer. The efficacy of LifeGreenTM as a preventive measure or a treatment for common gynecological matters was examined and modeled. We investigated the mechanisms underlying LifeGreenTM’s benefits in the treatment of uterine fibroids and breast cancer using computational techniques. Our research contributes to our understanding of its potential therapeutic benefits for women’s health.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.32241023 and 92254306)the Fund from the Tsinghua–Peking Joint Center for Life SciencesBeijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure。
文摘Reconstituting membrane proteins in liposomes and determining their structure is a common method for determining membrane protein structures using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy(cryo-EM).However,the strong signal of liposomes under cryo-EM imaging conditions often interferes with the structural determination of the embedded membrane proteins.Here,we propose a liposome signal subtraction method based on single-particle two-dimensional(2D)classification average images,aimed at enhancing the reconstruction resolution of membrane proteins.We analyzed the signal distribution characteristics of liposomes and proteins within the 2D classification average images of protein–liposome complexes in the frequency domain.Based on this analysis,we designed a method to subtract the liposome signals from the original particle images.After the subtraction,the accuracy of single-particle three-dimensional(3D)alignment was improved,enhancing the resolution of the final 3D reconstruction.We demonstrated this method using a PIEZO1-proteoliposome dataset by improving the resolution of the PIEZO1 protein.
基金The Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of the Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,Grant/Award Number:CI2023E001TS02,CI2021A04905 and CI2021B015Key Technology Research Foundation of the National Institutes for Food and Drug Control,Grant/Award Number:GJJS-2022-7-1the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Number:82074103。
文摘Background:Jiaohong pills(JHP)consist of Pericarpium Zanthoxyli(PZ)and Radix Rehmanniae,two herbs that have been extensively investigated over many years due to their potential protective effects against cognitive decline and memory impairment.However,the precise mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects remain elusive.Here,research studies were conducted to investigate and validate the therapeutic effects of JHP on Alzheimer's disease.Methods:BV-2 cell inflammation was induced by lipopolysaccharide.AD mice were administered amyloid-β(Aβ).Behavioral experiments were used to evaluate learning and memory ability.The levels of nitric oxide(NO),tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α),interleukin-1β(IL-1β),and interleukin-10(IL-10)were detected using enzymelinked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).The protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)and the phosphorylation level of mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)and nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB)were detected using Western blot.Nissl staining was used to detect neuronal degeneration.Results:The results demonstrated that an alcoholic extract of PZ significantly decreased the levels of NO,IL-1β,TNF-α,and iNOS;increased the expression level of IL-10;and significantly decreased the phosphorylation levels of MAPK and NF-κB.These inhibitory effects were further confirmed in the AD mouse model.Meanwhile,JHP improved learning and memory function in AD mice,reduced neuronal damage,and enriched the Nissl bodies in the hippocampus.Moreover,IL-1βand TNF-αin the cortex were significantly downregulated after JHP administration,whereas IL-10showed increased expression.Conclusions:It was found that JHP reduced neuroinflammatory response in AD mice by targeting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway.
文摘BACKGROUND The incidence of primary liver cancer is increasing year by year.In 2022 alone,more than 900000 people were diagnosed with liver cancer worldwide,with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)accounting for 75%-85%of cases.HCC is the most common primary liver cancer.China has the highest incidence and mortality rate of HCC in the world,and it is one of the malignant tumors that seriously threaten the health of Chinese people.The onset of liver cancer is occult,the early cases lack typical clinical symptoms,and most of the patients are already in the middle and late stage when diagnosed.Therefore,it is very important to find new markers for the early detection and diagnosis of liver cancer,improve the therapeutic effect,and improve the prognosis of patients.Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor 2(PTPN2)has been shown to be associated with colorectal cancer,triple-negative breast cancer,non-small cell lung cancer,and prostate cancer,but its biological role and function in tumors remain to be further studied.AIM To combine the results of relevant data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)to provide the first in-depth analysis of the biological role of PTPN2 in HCC.METHODS The expression of PTPN2 in HCC was first analyzed based on the TCGA database,and the findings were then verified by immunohistochemical staining,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),and immunoblotting.The value of PTPN2 in predicting the survival of patients with HCC was assessed by analyzing the relationship between PTPN2 expression in HCC tissues and clinicopathological features.Finally,the potential of PTPN2 affecting immune escape of liver cancer was evaluated by tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion and immunohistochemical staining.RESULTS The results of immunohistochemical staining,qRT-PCR,and immunoblotting in combination with TCGA database analysis showed that PTPN2 was highly expressed and associated with a poor prognosis in HCC patients.Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis showed that PTPN2 was associated with various pathways,including cancer-related pathways,the Notch signaling pathway,and the MAPK signaling pathway.Gene Set Enrichment Analysis showed that PTPN2 was highly expressed in various immune-related pathways,such as the epithelial mesenchymal transition process.A risk model score based on PTPN2 showed that immune escape was significantly enhanced in the high-risk group compared with the low-risk group.CONCLUSION This study investigated PTPN2 from multiple biological perspectives,revealing that PTPN2 can function as a biomarker of poor prognosis and mediate immune evasion in HCC.
基金funded by NIH-NIA R01AG061708 (to PHO)Patrick Grange Memorial Foundation (to PHO)+1 种基金A Long Swim (to PHO)CureSPG4 Foundation (to PHO)。
文摘Developing effective and long-term treatment strategies for rare and complex neurodegenerative diseases is challenging. One of the major roadblocks is the extensive heterogeneity among patients. This hinders understanding the underlying disease-causing mechanisms and building solutions that have implications for a broad spectrum of patients. One potential solution is to develop personalized medicine approaches based on strategies that target the most prevalent cellular events that are perturbed in patients. Especially in patients with a known genetic mutation, it may be possible to understand how these mutations contribute to problems that lead to neurodegeneration. Protein–protein interaction analyses offer great advantages for revealing how proteins interact, which cellular events are primarily involved in these interactions, and how they become affected when key genes are mutated in patients. This line of investigation also suggests novel druggable targets for patients with different mutations. Here, we focus on alsin and spastin, two proteins that are identified as “causative” for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and hereditary spastic paraplegia, respectively, when mutated. Our review analyzes the protein interactome for alsin and spastin, the canonical pathways that are primarily important for each protein domain, as well as compounds that are either Food and Drug Administration–approved or are in active clinical trials concerning the affected cellular pathways. This line of research begins to pave the way for personalized medicine approaches that are desperately needed for rare neurodegenerative diseases that are complex and heterogeneous.
文摘BACKGROUND Retinopathy is the most common microvascular disease of type 2 diabetes,and seriously threatens the life,health and quality of life of patients.It is worth noting that the development of diabetic retinopathy(DR)can be hidden,with few symptoms.Therefore,the preliminary screening of diabetic patients should identify DR as soon as possible,delay disease progression,and play a vital role in its diagnosis and treatment.AIM To investigate the correlation between glycated hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c),urinary microalbumin(U-mALB),urinary creatinine(U-CR),mALB/U-CR ratio,β2 microglobulin(β2MG),retinol binding protein(RBP)and DR.METHODS A total of 180 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending the Second People’s Hospital of Hefei from January 2022 to August 2022 were retrospectively enrolled by ophthalmologists.Based on whether they had combined retinopathy and its degree,68 patients with diabetes mellitus without retinopathy(NDR)were assigned to the NDR group,54 patients with non-proliferative DR(NPDR)to the NPDR group,and 58 patients with proliferative DR to the PDR group.General data,and HbA1c,mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and U-CR results were collected from the patients and compared among the groups.Pearson's correlation method was used to analyze the correlation between HbA1c,mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and U-CR indices,and multiple linear regression was applied to identify the risk factors for DR.Receiver operator characteristic(ROC)curves were also drawn.RESULTS The differences in age,gender,systolic and diastolic blood pressure between the groups were not statistically significantly(P>0.05),but the difference in disease duration was statistically significant(P<0.05).The differences in fasting blood glucose,high-density lipoprotein cholesterol,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,total cholesterol,and triglyceride between the groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).HbA1c in the PDR group was higher than that in the NPDR and NDR groups(P<0.05).The levels of mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and UCR in the PDR group were higher than those in the NPDR and NDR groups(P<0.05).Multiple linear regression analysis showed that disease duration,HbA1c,mALB,β2MG,RBP,mALB/U-CR and U-CR were risk factors for the development of DR.The ROC curve showed that the area under the curve(AUC)for the combination of indices(HbA1c+mALB+mALB/U-CR+U-CR+β2MG+RBP)was 0.958,with a sensitivity of 94.83%and specificity of 96.72%,which was higher than the AUC for single index prediction(P<0.05).CONCLUSION HbA1c,mALB,mALB/U-CR,U-CR,β2MG and RBP can reflect the development of DR and are risk factors affecting PDR,and the combination of these six indices has predictive value for PDR.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82070869 and 82270914.
文摘BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is a major health burden with an increasing global incidence.Unfortunately,the unavailability of knowledge underlying NAFLD pathogenesis inhibits effective preventive and therapeutic measures.AIM To explore the molecular mechanism of NAFLD.METHODS Whole genome sequencing(WGS)analysis was performed on liver tissues from patients with NAFLD(n=6)and patients with normal metabolic conditions(n=6)to identify the target genes.A NAFLD C57BL6/J mouse model induced by 16 wk of high-fat diet feeding and a hepatocyte-specific F-box only protein 2(FBXO2)overexpression mouse model were used for in vivo studies.Plasmid transfection,co-immunoprecipitation-based mass spectrometry assays,and ubiquitination in HepG2 cells and HEK293T cells were used for in vitro studies.RESULTS A total of 30982 genes were detected in WGS analysis,with 649 up-regulated and 178 down-regulated.Expression of FBXO2,an E3 ligase,was upregulated in the liver tissues of patients with NAFLD.Hepatocyte-specific FBXO2 overexpression facilitated NAFLD-associated phenotypes in mice.Overexpression of FBXO2 aggravated odium oleate(OA)-induced lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells,resulting in an abnormal expression of genes related to lipid metabolism,such as fatty acid synthase,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha,and so on.In contrast,knocking down FBXO2 in HepG2 cells significantly alleviated the OA-induced lipid accumulation and aberrant expression of lipid metabolism genes.The hydroxyl CoA dehydrogenase alpha subunit(HADHA),a protein involved in oxidative stress,was a target of FBXO2-mediated ubiquitination.FBXO2 directly bound to HADHA and facilitated its proteasomal degradation in HepG2 and HEK293T cells.Supplementation with HADHA alleviated lipid accumulation caused by FBXO2 overexpression in HepG2 cells.CONCLUSION FBXO2 exacerbates lipid accumulation by targeting HADHA and is a potential therapeutic target for NAFLD。
