Proteomics identifies a novel role of fibrinogen-like protein 1 in Crohn’s disease

BACKGROUND Crohn’s disease(CD)is an incurable intestinal disorder with unclear etiology and pathogenesis.Currently,there is a lack of specific biomarkers and drug targets for CD in clinical practice.It is essential to identify the precise pathophysiological mechanism of CD and investigate new therapeutic targets.AIM To explore a new biomarker and therapeutic target for CD and verify its role in the CD pathological mechanism.METHODS Proteomics was performed to quantify the protein profile in the plasma of 20 CD patients and 20 matched healthy controls.Hub genes among the selected differentially expressed proteins(DEPs)were detected via the MCODE plugin in Cytoscape software.The expression level of one hub gene with an immunoregulatory role that interested us was verified in the inflamed intestinal tissues of 20 CD patients by immunohistochemical analysis.After that,the effects of the selected hub gene on the intestinal inflammation of CD were identified in a CD cell model by examining the levels of proinflammatory cytokines by enzymelinked immunosorbent assays and the expression of the NF-κB signalling pathway by quantitative real-time PCR analysis and Western blot assays.RESULTS Thirty-five DEPs were selected from 393 credible proteins identified by proteomic analysis.Among the DEPs,fibrinogen-like protein 1(FGL1),which attracted our attention due to its function in the regulation of the immune response,had 1.722-fold higher expression in the plasma of CD patients and was identified as a hub gene by MCODE.Furthermore,the expression of FGL1 in the intestinal mucosal and epithelial tissues of CD patients was also upregulated(P<0.05).In vitro,the mRNA levels of FGL1 and NF-κB;the protein expression levels of FGL1,IKKα,IKKβ,p-IKKα/β,p-IκBα,and p-p65;and the concentrations of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β,IL-6,IL-17,and TNF-αwere increased(P<0.05)after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide,which were reversed by knockdown of FGL1 with siRNA transfection(P<0.05).Conversely,FGL1 overexpression enhanced the abovementioned results(P<0.05).CONCLUSION FGL1 can induce intestinal inflammation by activating the canonical NF-κB signalling pathway,and it may be considered a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for CD.

Role of Fibrinogen-like Protein 1 in Tumor Recurrence Following Hepatectomy

Partial hepatectomy is a first-line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma.Within 2 weeks following partial hepatectomy,specific molecular pathways are activated to promote liver regeneration.Nevertheless,residual microtumors may also exploit these pathways to reappear and metastasize.Therapeutically targeting molecules that are differentially regulated between normal cells and malignancies,such as fibrinogen-like protein 1(FGL1),appears to be an effective approach.The potential functions of FGL1 in both regenerative and malignant cells are discussed within the ambit of this review.While FGL1 is normally elevated in regenerative hepatocytes,it is normally downregulated in malignant cells.Hepatectomy does indeed upregulate FGL1 by increasing the release of transcription factors that promote FGL1,including HNF-1α and STAT3,and inflammatory effectors,such as TGF-β and IL6.This,in turn,stimulates certain proliferative pathways,including EGFR/Src/ERK.Hepatectomy alters the phase transition of highly differentiated hepatocytes from G0 to G1,thereby transforming susceptible cells into cancerous ones.Activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway by FGL1 allele loss on chromosome 8,a tumor suppressor area,may also cause hepatocellular carcinoma.Interestingly,FGL1 is specifically expressed in the liver via HNF-1α histone acetylase activity,which triggers lipid metabolic reprogramming in malignancies.FGL1 might also be involved in other carcinogenesis processes such as hypoxia,epithelial-mesenchymal transition,immunosuppression,and sorafenib-mediated drug resistance.This study highlights a research gap in these disciplines and the necessity for additional research on FGL1 function in the described processes.

Barley Protein LFBEP-C1 from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum dy-1 Fermented Barley Extracts by Inhibiting Lipid Accumulation in a Caenorhabditis elegans Model

Objective This study aimed to investigate the lipid-lowering activity of LFBEP-C1 in high glucose-fed Caenorhabditis elegans(C.elegans).Methods In this study,the fermented barley protein LFBEP-C1 was prepared and tested for its potential anti-obesity effects on C.elegans.The worms were fed Escherichia coli OP50(E.coli OP50),glucose,and different concentrations of LFBEP-C1.Body size,lifespan,movement,triglyceride content,and gene expression were analyzed.The results were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's multiple comparison test.Results Compared with the model group,the head-swing frequency of C.elegans in the group of LFBEP-C1 at 20μg/mL increased by 33.88%,and the body-bending frequency increased by 27.09%.This indicated that LFBEP-C1 improved the locomotive ability of C.elegans.The average lifespan of C.elegans reached 13.55 days,and the body length and width of the C.elegans decreased after LFBEP-C1 intake.Additionally,LFBEP-C1 reduced the content of lipid accumulation and triglyceride levels.The expression levels of sbp-1,daf-2,and mdt-15 significantly decreased,while those of daf-16,tph-1,mod-1,and ser-4 significantly increased after LFBEP-C1 intake.Changes in these genes explain the signaling pathways that regulate lipid metabolism.Conclusion LFBEP-C1 significantly reduced lipid deposition in C.elegans fed a high-glucose diet and alleviated the adverse effects of a high-glucose diet on the development,lifespan,and exercise behavior of C.elegans.In addition,LFBEP-C1 regulated lipid metabolism mainly by mediating the expression of genes in the sterol regulatory element-binding protein,insulin,and 5-hydroxytryptamine signaling pathways.

Roles of the tumor microenvironment in the resistance to programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors in patients with gastric cancer

Despite the continuous developments and advancements in the treatment of gastric cancer(GC),which is one of the most prevalent types of cancer in China,the overall survival is still poor for most patients with advanced GC.In recent years,with the progress in tumor immunology research,attention has shifted toward immunotherapy as a therapeutic approach for GC.Programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1)inhibitors,as novel immunosuppressive medications,have been widely utilized in the treatment of GC.However,many patients are still resistant to PD-1 inhibitors and experience recurrence in the advanced stages of PD-1 immunotherapy.To reduce the occurrence of drug resistance and recurrence in GC patients receiving PD-1 immunotherapy,to maximize the clinical activity of immunosuppressive drugs,and to elicit a lasting immune response,it is essential to research the tumor microenvironment mechanisms leading to PD-1 inhibitor resistance in GC patients.This article reviews the progress in studying the factors influencing the resistance to PD-1 inhibitors in the GC tumor microenvironment,aiming to provide insights and a basis for reducing resistance to PD-1 inhibitors for GC patients in the future.

In situ direct reprogramming of astrocytes to neurons via polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 knockdown in a mouse model of ischemic stroke

In situ direct reprogramming technology can directly convert endogenous glial cells into functional neurons in vivo for central nervous system repair. Polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1(PTB) knockdown has been shown to reprogram astrocytes to functional neurons in situ. In this study, we used AAV-PHP.e B-GFAP-sh PTB to knockdown PTB in a mouse model of ischemic stroke induced by endothelin-1, and investigated the effects of GFAP-sh PTB-mediated direct reprogramming to neurons. Our results showed that in the mouse model of ischemic stroke, PTB knockdown effectively reprogrammed GFAP-positive cells to neurons in ischemic foci, restored neural tissue structure, reduced inflammatory response, and improved behavioral function. These findings validate the effectiveness of in situ transdifferentiation of astrocytes, and suggest that the approach may be a promising strategy for stroke treatment.

Low Selenium and Low Protein Exacerbate Myocardial Damage in Keshan Disease by Affecting the PINK1/Parkin-mediated Mitochondrial Autophagy Pathway

Objective Keshan disease(KD)is a myocardial mitochondrial disease closely related to insufficient selenium(Se)and protein intake.PTEN induced putative kinase 1(PINK1)/Parkin mediated mitochondrial autophagy regulates various physiological and pathological processes in the body.This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between PINK1/Parkin-regulated mitochondrial autophagy and KD-related myocardial injury.Methods A low Se and low protein animal model was established.One hundred Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups(control group,low Se group,low protein group,low Se+low protein group,and corn from KD area group).The JC-1 method was used to detect the mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP).ELISA was used to detect serum creatine kinase MB(CK-MB),cardiac troponin I(cTnI),and mitochondrial-glutamicoxalacetic transaminase(M-GOT)levels.RT-PCR and Western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of PINK1,Parkin,sequestome 1(P62),and microtubule-associated proteins1A/1B light chain 3B(MAP1LC3B).Results The MMP was significantly decreased and the activity of CK-MB,cTnI,and M-GOT significantly increased in each experimental group(low Se group,low protein group,low Se+low protein group and corn from KD area group)compared with the control group(P<0.05 for all).The mRNA and protein expression levels of PINK1,Parkin and MAP1LC3B were profoundly increased,and those of P62 markedly decreased in the experimental groups compared with the control group(P<0.05 for all).Conclusion Low Se and low protein levels exacerbate myocardial damage in KD by affecting the PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitochondrial autophagy pathway.

Mesenchymal stromal cells modulate unfolded protein response and preserve β-cell mass in type 1 diabetes

Introduction:Transplantation of mesenchymal stromal cells(MSCs)is a promising therapy for type 1 diabetes(T1D).However,whether the infused MSCs affect the endoplasmic reticulum stress or subsequent unfolded protein response inβcells remains unclear.Methods:To investigate this,we induced early-onset T1D in non-obese diabetic mice using streptozotocin.Subsequently,T1D mice were randomly assigned to receive either MSCs or phosphate-buffered saline.We observed the in vivo homing of MSCs and assessed their effectiveness by analyzing blood glucose levels,body weight,histopathology,pancreatic protein expression,and serum levels of cytokines,proinsulin,and C-peptide.Results:Infused MSCs were found in the lungs,liver,spleen,and pancreas of T1D mice.They exhibited various effects,including reducing blood glucose levels,regulating immunity,inhibiting inflammation,increasingβ-cell areas,and reducing the expression of key proteins in the unfolded protein response pathway.Fasting serum proinsulin and C-peptide levels were significantly higher in the MSCs treatment group than in the T1D model group.However,there was no significant difference in the biomarker ofβ-cell endoplasmic reticulum stress,the ratio of fasting serum proinsulin to C-peptide,between the two groups.Conclusion:Ourfindings reveal that MSCs infusion does not alleviate endoplasmic reticulum stress inβcells directly but modulates the unfolded protein response pathway to preserveβ-cell mass and function in T1D mice.

C-reactive protein to albumin ratio predict responses to programmed cell death-1 inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma patients

BACKGROUND Over the years,programmed cell death-1(PD-1)inhibitors have been routinely used for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)treatment and yielded improved survival outcomes.Nonetheless,significant heterogeneity surrounds the outcomes of most studies.Therefore,it is critical to search for biomarkers that predict the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in patients with HCC.AIM To investigate the role of the C-reactive protein to albumin ratio(CAR)in evaluating the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors for HCC.METHODS The clinical data of 160 patients with HCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors from January 2018 to November 2022 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were retrospectively analyzed.RESULTS The optimal cut-off value for CAR based on progression-free survival(PFS)was determined to be 1.20 using x-tile software.Cox proportional risk model was used to determine the factors affecting prognosis.Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status[hazard ratio(HR)=1.754,95%confidence interval(95%CI)=1.045-2.944,P=0.033],CAR(HR=2.118,95%CI=1.057-4.243,P=0.034)and tumor number(HR=2.932,95%CI=1.246-6.897,P=0.014)were independent prognostic factors for overall survival.CAR(HR=2.730,95%CI=1.502-4.961,P=0.001),tumor number(HR=1.584,95%CI=1.003-2.500,P=0.048)and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio(HR=1.120,95%CI=1.022-1.228,P=0.015)were independent prognostic factors for PFS.Two nomograms were constructed based on independent prognostic factors.The C-index index and calibration plots confirmed that the nomogram is a reliable risk prediction tool.The ROC curve and decision curve analysis confirmed that the nomogram has a good predictive effect as well as a net clinical benefit.CONCLUSION Overall,we reveal that the CAR is a potential predictor of short-and long-term prognosis in patients with HCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors.If further verified,CAR-based nomogram may increase the number of markers that predict individualized prognosis.

Polycytosine RNA-binding protein 1 regulates osteoblast function via a ferroptosis pathway in type 2 diabetic osteoporosis

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.

AAV mediated carboxyl terminus of Hsp70 interacting protein overexpression mitigates the cognitive and pathological phenotypes of APP/PS1 mice

The E3 ubiquitin ligase,carboxyl terminus of heat shock protein 70(Hsp70)interacting protein(CHIP),also functions as a co-chaperone and plays a crucial role in the protein quality control system.In this study,we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of overexpressed CHIP on Alzheimer’s disease.We used an adeno-associated virus vector that can cross the blood-brain barrier to mediate CHIP overexpression in APP/PS1 mouse brain.CHIP overexpression significantly ameliorated the performance of APP/PS1 mice in the Morris water maze and nest building tests,reduced amyloid-βplaques,and decreased the expression of both amyloid-βand phosphorylated tau.CHIP also alleviated the concentration of microglia and astrocytes around plaques.In APP/PS1 mice of a younger age,CHIP overexpression promoted an increase in ADAM10 expression and inhibitedβ-site APP cleaving enzyme 1,insulin degrading enzyme,and neprilysin expression.Levels of HSP70 and HSP40,which have functional relevance to CHIP,were also increased.Single nuclei transcriptome sequencing in the hippocampus of CHIP overexpressed mice showed that the lysosomal pathway and oligodendrocyte-related biological processes were up-regulated,which may also reflect a potential mechanism for the neuroprotective effect of CHIP.Our research shows that CHIP effectively reduces the behavior and pathological manifestations of APP/PS1 mice.Indeed,overexpression of CHIP could be a beneficial approach for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Targeting neuronal PAS domain protein 2 and KN motif/ankyrin repeat domains 1:Advances in type 2 diabetes therapy

This editorial summarizes the latest literature on the roles of neuronal PAS domain protein 2 and KN motif/ankyrin repeat domain 1 in type 2 diabetes(T2D).We highlight their involvement inβ-cell dysfunction,explore their potential as therapeutic targets,and discuss the implications for new treatment strategies.We offer valuable insights into relevant gene regulation and cellular mechanisms relevant for the targeted management of T2D.

Hmo1:A versatile member of the high mobility group box family of chromosomal architecture proteins

Eukaryotic chromatin consisting of nucleosomes connected by linker DNA is organized into higher order structures,which is facilitated by linker histone H1.Formation of chromatin compacts and protects the genome,but also hinders DNA transactions.Cells have evolved mechanisms to modify/remodel chromatin resulting in chromatin states suitable for genome functions.The high mobility group box(HMGB)proteins are non-histone chromatin architectural factors characterized by one or more HMGB motifs that bind DNA in a sequence nonspecific fashion.They play a major role in chromatin dynamics.The Saccharomyces cerevisiae(yeast hereafter)HMGB protein Hmo1 contains two HMGB motifs.However,unlike a canonical HMGB protein that has an acidic C-terminus,Hmo1 ends with a lysine rich,basic,C-terminus,resembling linker histone H1.Hmo1 exhibits characteristics of both HMGB proteins and linker histones in its multiple functions.For instance,Hmo1 promotes transcription by RNA polymerases I and II like canonical HMGB proteins but makes chromatin more compact/stable like linker histones.Recent studies have demonstrated that Hmo1 destabilizes/disrupts nucleosome similarly as other HMGB proteins in vitro and acts to maintain a common topological architecture of genes in yeast genome.This minireview reviews the functions of Hmo1 and the underlying mechanisms,highlighting recent discoveries.

Molecular Docking Studies of Botanical Beverage Mix Berries (LIFEGREENTM) against Breast Cancer Cells from Targeted Protein 1QQG, 7B5Q & 7B5O & Uterine Fibroid from Targeted Protein 2AYR, 6T41 & 3GRF

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.

NRG1、HER3在前列腺癌组织中的表达及其与临床病理特征和预后的关系

目的研究前列腺癌(PC)组织中神经调节蛋白1(NRG1)、人表皮生长因子受体3(HER3)表达与临床病理特征及预后的关系。方法选取2015年2月—2020年2月吉林省人民医院泌尿外科诊治PC患者96例,免疫组织化学检测组织中NRG1、HER3表达;Kaplan-Meier曲线(Log-Rank检验)比较不同NRG1、HER3表达对PC患者预后的影响;COX回归分析PC患者预后的影响因素。结果PC癌组织中NRG1、HER3阳性率分别为78.13%(75/96)、75.00%(72/96),高于癌旁组织6.25%(6/96)、8.33%(8/96)(χ^(2)/P=101.670/<0.001,87.771/<0.001)。TNM分期Ⅲ期、Gleason评分>7分及术前PSA水平≥20μg/L患者癌组织中NRG1、HER3阳性率大于TNM分期Ⅰ~Ⅱ期、Gleason评分≤7分及术前PSA水平<20μg/L(χ^(2)/P=6.181/0.013,8.533/0.003;7.731/0.005,6.769/0.009;6.508/0.011,7.376/0.007)。NRG1阳性组、HER3阳性组3年累积无进展生存率分别低于NRG1阴性组、HER3阴性组(χ^(2)/P=4.267/0.039,5.499/0.019)。TNM分期Ⅲ期、Gleason评分>7分、术前PSA≥20μg/L、NRG1阳性,HER3阳性是影响PC患者预后的独立危险因素[OR(95%CI)=1.448(1.118~1.875),1.401(1.138~1.724),1.353(1.059~1.728),1.338(1.057~1.692),1.293(1.014~1.649)]。结论PC癌组织中NRG1、HER3表达升高,与PC不良临床病理特征相关,是新的评估PC预后的肿瘤标志物。

白藜芦醇通过调节SIRT1/AMPK信号通路介导自噬反应对膝关节骨性关节炎大鼠细胞凋亡的影响

目的:从沉默信息调节因子1(SIRT1)/腺苷酸活化蛋白激酶(AMPK)信号通路介导自噬角度,探讨白藜芦醇对大鼠膝关节骨性关节炎(KOA)软骨细胞凋亡的影响。方法:50只健康Wistar大鼠随机分为对照组、模型组、白藜芦醇组、白藜芦醇+SIRT1抑制剂组、自噬激活剂组,每组10只。除对照组外其余大鼠均通过注射弗氏完全佐剂造模法复制KOA大鼠模型,白藜芦醇组、白藜芦醇+AMPK抑制剂组、自噬激活剂组分别使用10μmol/kg白藜芦醇、10μmol/kg白藜芦醇+10 mg/kg EX527、2 mg/kg雷帕霉素进行干预,4周后,观察大鼠Lequesne MG膝关节级别;测定大鼠膝关节液中IL-6、肿瘤坏死因子β(TNF-β)水平;HE染色与TUNEL染色观测大鼠膝关节软骨组织形态及凋亡情况;透射电子显微镜观察大鼠软骨细胞自噬情况;Western blot法检测SIRT1、p-AMPK、AMPK、LC3、Beclin-1蛋白表达。结果:与对照组相比,模型组局部反应、步态反应、关节活动、关节肿胀程度加重(P<0.05);与模型组相比,白藜芦醇组、自噬激活剂组局部反应、步态反应、关节活动、关节肿胀程度减轻(P<0.05)。与对照组相比,模型组大鼠软骨组织细胞排列紊乱,粗糙,存在纤维化变性、边缘丘状隆起,细胞器减少,可见空泡变性,自噬小体数目增多,膝关节液IL-6、TNF-β水平、软骨细胞凋亡率、Beclin-1和LC3B/A升高(P<0.05),软骨组织SIRT1、p-AMPK/AMPK降低(P<0.05);与模型组相比,白藜芦醇组、自噬激活剂组大鼠软骨组织细胞排列紊乱、边缘丘状隆起等现象有改善,自噬小体数目增多,膝关节液IL-6、TNF-β水平、软骨细胞凋亡率降低(P<0.05),软骨组织SIRT1、p-AMPK/AMPK、Beclin-1和LC3B/A水平升高(P<0.05);SIRT1抑制剂可逆转白藜芦醇组对大鼠软骨细胞的保护作用。结论:白藜芦醇可能是通过激活SIRT1/AMPK通路介导自噬KOA大鼠软骨细胞凋亡,SIRT1抑制剂可逆转此过程。

多发性子宫肌瘤患者血清ANGPTL2、VASH1的表达及临床意义

目的 分析血清中血管生成素样蛋白2(ANGPTL2)和血管生成抑制蛋白1(VASH1)的表达水平,探讨其在多发性子宫肌瘤中的临床意义。方法 选取2018年1月至2022年1月于东南大学医学院附属南京同仁医院就诊的312例多发性子宫肌瘤患者为研究对象(观察组),同时期来本院体检的312名健康女性作为对照(对照组);酶联免疫吸附试验(ELISA)检测血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平;Pearson相关分析血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平的相关性;受试者工作特征(ROC)曲线分析血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平对多发性子宫肌瘤的诊断价值;Logistic回归分析多发性子宫肌瘤发生的影响因素。结果 观察组血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平显著高于对照组,差异有统计学意义(t=12.870、9.935,P<0.05);血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平与阴道不规则出血、肌瘤数量、最大肌瘤直径以及平均肌瘤体积有关,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05),而与年龄、月经情况、绝经情况、妊娠史、流产史、ER、PR以及肿瘤部位无关,差异无统计学意义(P>0.05);Pearson相关分析结果显示,多发性子宫肌瘤患者血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平呈正相关(r=5.440,P<0.05);ROC曲线分析结果显示,血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平联合诊断多发性子宫肌瘤的曲线下面积(AUC),效果较ANGPTL2和VASH1单一指标更好(P<0.05);Logistic回归分析结果显示,ANGPTL2、VASH1是多发性子宫肌瘤发生的影响因素(P<0.05)。结论 多发性子宫肌瘤患者血清中ANGPTL2和VASH1水平显著升高,两者联合可辅助诊断多发性子宫肌瘤。

HMGB1中和抗体抑制细胞焦亡改善系统性红斑狼疮小鼠肺损伤的机制研究

目的探究高迁移率族蛋白1(high-mobility group box 1,HMGB1)中和抗体对系统性红斑狼疮(systemic lupus erythematosus,SLE)小鼠肺损伤的影响及机制。方法30只MRL/lpr小鼠随机分为MRL/lpr组、MRL/lpr+HMGB1中和抗体(anti-HMGB1)组、MRL/lpr+MCC950组,每组10只,另取10只野生型C57BL/6小鼠作为对照组,给药4周。苏木精-伊红(HE)染色和马松三色(Masson)染色观察各组小鼠肺组织病理学变化及胶原纤维沉积情况,酶联免疫吸附法(ELISA)检测各组小鼠肺泡灌洗液中白细胞介素-1β(IL-1β)、IL-6、IL-18及肿瘤坏死因子-α(TNF-α)含量,免疫荧光染色观察各组小鼠肺组织内核苷酸结合寡聚化结构域样受体蛋白3(NLRP3)荧光表达,蛋白质免疫印记(Western blotting)检测各组小鼠肺组织中HMGB1及NLRP3、凋亡相关斑点样蛋白(ASC)、含半胱氨酸的天冬氨酸蛋白水解酶-1(Caspase-1)、gasdermin D(GSDMD)的蛋白表达水平。结果与对照组比较,MRL/lpr组小鼠肺组织呈现严重病理损伤症状,胶原纤维沉积面积显著增加(P<0.05),肺泡灌洗液中IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18、TNF-α含量显著升高(P<0.05),肺组织内NLRP3平均荧光强度显著增加(P<0.05),HMGB1蛋白相对表达量及NLRP3、ASC、Caspase-1、GSDMD蛋白相对表达量均显著上调(P<0.05);与MRL/lpr组比较,MRL/lpr+anti-HMGB1组和MRL/lpr+MCC950组小鼠肺组织损伤得到明显改善,胶原纤维沉积面积显著减少(P<0.05),肺泡灌洗液中IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18、TNF-α含量显著降低(P<0.05),肺组织内NLRP3平均荧光强度显著减小(P<0.05),同时,肺组织中HMGB1蛋白相对表达量及NLRP3、ASC、Caspase-1、GSDMD蛋白相对表达量均显著下调(P<0.05)。结论HMGB1中和抗体能够改善SLE模型小鼠肺损伤,该作用可能是通过抑制细胞焦亡实现的。

抑制lncRNA TUG1下调核苷酸结合寡聚结构域样受体蛋白1炎症小体在延缓阿尔茨海默病进展的作用

目的探讨敲低长链非编码RNA(lncRNA)牛磺酸上调基因1(TUG1)抑制核苷酸结合寡聚结构域样受体蛋白1(NLRP1)炎症小体在缓解阿尔茨海默病进展中的作用。方法选取9~10周龄遗传背景为C57/BL6的野生型小鼠(WT组,10只)或淀粉样前体蛋白(APP)/早老素1(PS1)转基因小鼠(30只)。APP/PS1转基因小鼠随机分为模型(model)组,模型+敲低lncRNA TUG1组[model+lncRNA TUG1短发夹RNA(shRNA)组]和model+shRNA非靶标(NT)组,每组10只。分别采集12周龄第1天(3月龄)和32周龄第1天(8月龄)小鼠外周血和脑皮质组织,并分离皮质中的原代小胶质细胞和原代星形胶质细胞,每个时间点每组5只小鼠。Real-time PCR分别测定3月龄和8月龄上述4个分组小鼠脑皮质组织和原代小胶质细胞中lncRNA TUG1和巨噬细胞移动抑制因子(MIF)mRNA的水平,以及原代星形胶质细胞中补体蛋白C1r和C1s mRNA的水平。ELISA法测定其外周血浆中MIF含量。对3月龄和8月龄小鼠脑皮质原代小胶质细胞和原代星形胶质细胞共培养。CCK-8法测定上述2种细胞的增殖能力。Western blotting分别测定3月龄和8月龄上述4个分组小鼠脑皮质组织中MIF、白细胞介素1β前体(pro-IL-1β)、凋亡相关斑点样蛋白(ASC)、Caspase-1(p20)、Caspase-1(full)、NLRP1及NLRP3蛋白的表达水平。采用免疫荧光染色法测定8月龄各分组小鼠脑皮质组织中β淀粉样蛋白(Aβ)表达。结果3月龄和8月龄时,与WT组小鼠相比,model组小鼠脑皮质组织和原代小胶质细胞中lncRNA TUG1和MIF相对表达水平显著上调,原代小胶质细胞和原代星形胶质细胞增殖能力增强(P<0.05)。与model组相比,model+lncRNA TUG1 shRNA组小鼠脑皮质组织和原代小胶质细胞中lncRNA TUG1和MIF的相对表达水平显著降低,原代小胶质细胞和原代星形胶质细胞增殖能力降低(P<0.05)。与WT组相比,model组小鼠外周血浆中MIF含量显著升高;小鼠脑皮质组织中pro-IL-1β、ASC、Caspase-1(p20)、Caspase-1(full)、NLRP1以及NLRP3的蛋白表达水平显著升高;Aβ免疫荧光强度明显增强(P<0.05)。与model组相比,model+lncRNA TUG1 shRNA组小鼠外周血浆中MIF含量显著降低;小鼠脑皮质组织中pro-IL-1β、ASC、Caspase-1(p20)、Caspase-1(full)和NLRP1的蛋白表达水平显著降低,Aβ免疫荧光强度明显降低(P<0.05),而NLRP3蛋白质的表达水平无明显变化(P>0.05)。与model组相比,model+shRNA NT组小鼠上述所有检测指标差异均无显著性(P>0.05)。结论APP/PS1转基因小鼠脑皮质组织和原代小胶质细胞中lncRNA TUG1和MIF因子表达上调与脑皮质内NLRP1炎症小体激活成正相关,敲低lncRNA TUG1可缓解阿尔茨海默病的进展。

血清HMGB1、CCL20、HSP27水平与慢性牙周炎患者牙周病变程度的相关性分析

目的探讨血清高迁移率族蛋白1(HMGB1)、CC趋化因子配体20(CCL20)、热休克蛋白27(HSP27)水平与慢性牙周炎(CP)患者牙周病变程度的相关性。方法选取2021年9月至2023年8月在新乡医学院第一附属医院诊治的60例CP患者纳入观察组,根据1∶1原则,另选取同期牙周健康者60例纳入对照组。比较两组及不同牙周病变程度CP患者血清HMGB1、CCL20、HSP27水平,分析各指标水平与CP牙周病变程度的相关性及联合诊断价值,并分析不同血清水平患者发生CP的危险度。结果观察组血清HMGB1、CCL20、HSP27水平高于对照组(P<0.05);不同牙周病变程度CP患者血清HMGB1、CCL20、HSP27水平比较:轻度<中度<重度,且各指标水平与牙周病变程度均呈正相关(P<0.05);入院时HMGB1、CCL20、HSP27水平联合诊断CP的曲线下面积(AUC)为0.905,最佳诊断敏感度为91.67%,特异度为88.33%,约登指数0.800,且各指标高水平患者发生CP的危险度是低水平的1.105倍、1.034倍、1.105倍(P<0.05)。结论HMGB1、CCL20、HSP27在CP患者血清中呈异常高表达,各指标水平与牙周病变程度均呈正相关,且联合检测对CP具有较高诊断价值,可作为临床诊断CP、评估牙周病变程度的有效指标。

慢性肾小球肾炎患者MCP-1和sFlt-1表达与肾功能及预后的相关性研究

目的:分析慢性肾小球肾炎患者血清单核细胞趋化蛋白-1(MCP-1)和可溶性血管内皮细胞生长因子受体1(sFlt-1)水平变化及其与肾功能和预后的关系。方法:纳入2018-01—2020-03本院收治的慢性肾小球肾炎患者122例(研究组),选取同时期本院体检健康者128例(对照组)。研究组依据肾功能损害情况分为A组(肾功能正常16例)、B组(轻中度肾功能损害88例)、C组(重度肾功能损害18例);根据随访结局,将患者分为肾功能衰竭组(22例)和病情缓解组(100例)。采用酶联免疫吸附法(ELISA)检测受试者MCP-1、sFlt-1水平。采用全自动生化分析仪检测所有受试者血尿素氮(BUN)、血肌酐(Scr)水平,采用慢性肾脏疾病流行病学合作研究公式(CKD-EPI)估算肾小球滤过率(eGFR)。Pearson法分析MCP-1、sFlt-1与BUN、Scr、eGFR的相关性。采用受试者工作特征(ROC)曲线评价血清MCP-1、sFlt-1水平预测慢性肾小球肾炎患者预后的价值。结果:与对照组相比,研究组MCP-1、sFlt-1、BUN、Scr水平较高(P<0.05),eGFR较低(P<0.05)。C组BUN、Scr、MCP-1、sFlt-1水平明显高于A组、B组(P<0.05),B组BUN、Scr、MCP-1、sFlt-1水平明显高于A组(P<0.05)。Pearson相关性分析显示,MCP-1与BUN、Scr均呈正相关(P<0.05),与eGFR呈负相关(P<0.05),sFlt-1与BUN、Scr均呈正相关(P<0.05),与eGFR呈负相关(P<0.05)。与病情缓解组相比,肾功能衰竭组患者清中MCP-1、sFlt-1水平较高(P<0.05)。ROC分析显示,血清MCP-1、sFlt-1水平预测慢性肾小球肾炎患者预后的AUC分别为0.967、0.965,MCP-1联合sFlt-1预测慢性肾小球肾炎患者预后的AUC为0.984,灵敏度100.00%,特异度94.00%。结论:慢性肾小球肾炎患者血清MCP-1、sFlt-1水平明显上升,可作为患者预后评估的潜在生物学指标。