Improved yield potential is the goal of barley domestication and cultivation.During this process,two-and six-rowed barley types emerged and have been utilised in breeding and production.The six-rowed type could produc...Improved yield potential is the goal of barley domestication and cultivation.During this process,two-and six-rowed barley types emerged and have been utilised in breeding and production.The six-rowed type could produce three times as many grains as its ancestral two-rowed forms,thus dominating barley cultivation for thousands of years.The deficiens form of the two-rowed type,characterised by extremely suppressed lateral spikelets,has gained dominance over the past few decades in barley-growing regions worldwide.We hypothesised that the absence of lateral spikelets in deficiens barley affects spike architecture and spike-related traits,contributing to its superior yield potential of deficiens barley cultivation.Currently,a deficiens barley variety,RGT Planet,is the most popular barley variety in the world.In this study,we used two F_(2) populations derived from crossing RGT Planet with two canonical two-rowed barley and identified the functional allele Vrs1.t1 associated with deficiens morphology.We observed that the Vrs1.t1 allele may contribute to high yield potential by optimising spike architecture through increased spikelet length,grain number,and grain size.Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the deficiens mutation was likely present from the early stages of barley cultivation in the Fertile Crescent and spread to Ethiopia and beyond with agricultural expansion.We conclude that the ancient deficiens allele Vrs1.t1 has been a critical driver for the recent success of modern barley improvement by optimising spike architecture.展开更多
目的探讨星状神经节阻滞(SGB)通过长链非编码RNA(lncRNA)牛磺酸上调基因1(TUG1)-NOD样受体热蛋白结构域相关蛋白3(NLRP3)轴在体外脑缺血再灌注模型中对炎症反应和自噬溶酶体形成的调节作用。方法培养大鼠海马神经元细胞系H19-7,并将细...目的探讨星状神经节阻滞(SGB)通过长链非编码RNA(lncRNA)牛磺酸上调基因1(TUG1)-NOD样受体热蛋白结构域相关蛋白3(NLRP3)轴在体外脑缺血再灌注模型中对炎症反应和自噬溶酶体形成的调节作用。方法培养大鼠海马神经元细胞系H19-7,并将细胞分为8组:(i)正常对照组:正常培养的神经元细胞;(ii)氧-糖剥夺/复氧(OGD/R)组:采用氧-糖剥夺/复氧法模拟脑缺血再灌注损伤;(iii)OGD/R+SGB组:OGD/R联合麻醉药0.5%布比卡因用于体外模拟SGB;(iv)OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达阴性对照组:OGD/R联合布比卡因并联合TUG1过表达阴性对照质粒转染细胞;(v)OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达组:OGD/R联合布比卡因并联合TUG1过表达质粒转染细胞;(vi)OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达+MCC950组:OGD/R联合布比卡因、TUG1过表达质粒转染及NLRP3抑制剂MCC950处理细胞;(vii)OGD/R+TUG1过表达组:OGD/R联合TUG1过表达质粒转染细胞;(viii)OGD/R+MCC950组:OGD/R联合NLRP3抑制剂MCC950处理细胞。进一步通过实时定量PCR(Quantitative Real Time PCR,qRTPCR)实验检测细胞中lncRNATUG1的表达;利用Western blot法检测细胞中NLRP3、微管相关蛋白1轻链3(LC3)-I、LC3-II、自噬相关基因5(Atg5)、苄氯素1(beclin1)、自噬接头蛋白(p62)、溶酶体相关膜蛋白1(LAMP1)的表达水平;利用透射电镜(TEM)检测自噬溶酶体的数量;并用酶联免疫吸附测定(ELISA)法检测细胞培养上清中白细胞介素(IL)-1β、IL-6、IL-18、肿瘤坏死因子(TNF)-α的含量。结果与正常对照组相比,OGD/R组lncRNA TUG1、NLRP3、Atg5、beclin1、p62、LAMP1的表达水平以及LC3-II/I比值均显著上调(^(均)P<0.05),自噬溶酶体数量增加(P<0.05),IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18、TNF-α的含量显著升高(^(均)P<0.05)。与OGD/R组相比,OGD/R+SGB组的上述指标均显著下调(P<0.05)。与OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达阴性对照组相比,OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达组的lncRNA TUG1、NLRP3、Atg5、beclin1、p62、LAMP1的表达水平以及LC3-II/I比值均显著上调(^(均)P<0.05),自噬溶酶体数量增加(P<0.05),IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18、TNF-α的含量显著升高(^(均)P<0.05),然而,加入NLRP3的抑制剂MCC950后,除lncRNA TUG1外其余指标均显著下调(^(均)P<0.05)。另外,与OGD/R组比,OGD/R+TUG1过表达组的上述指标进一步上调(^(均)P<0.05)。与OGD/R组比,OGD/R+MCC950组则抑制了除lncRNA TUG1外的其余指标(^(均)P<0.05)。结论星状神经节阻滞通过调节lncRNA TUG1-NLRP3轴有效减轻体外脑缺血再灌注损伤引起的炎症反应和自噬溶酶体形成,提示其可能作为治疗缺血性脑损伤的潜在策略。展开更多
Polyembryony has posed a significant impediment to the advancement of citrus hybrid breeding.FhRWP is widely regarded as a pivotal factor governing asexual reproduction in citrus,and prior research has demonstrated th...Polyembryony has posed a significant impediment to the advancement of citrus hybrid breeding.FhRWP is widely regarded as a pivotal factor governing asexual reproduction in citrus,and prior research has demonstrated that FhARID1,acting as an upstream regulator,modulates FhRWP expression.In this study,we performed a genome-wide characterization of the ARID-HMG-related genes using the short juvenile minicitrus Fortunella hindsii.A total of 20 ARID-HMG-related genes were identified.Protein interaction network and enrichment analysis suggested that ARID-HMG-related proteins might might be involved in chromatin remodeling complexes.Knockout of FhARID1 in F.hindsii did not induce the conversion from polyembryony to monoembryony.However,fharid1 plants in T1 generation exhibited abnormal proliferation at axillary buds,which is similar to phenotype of fhrwp plants.Expression analysis of fharid1 ovary tissues revealed the downregulation of FhRWP.The results indicated that FhARID1,as an upstream regulator of FhRWP,has an effect on the development of citrus axillary buds.Expression analysis of overexpressed leaves of FhARID1 lines showed that no significant up-regulation of FhRWP,indicating that FhARID1 is not the sole upstream regulatory factor of FhRWP.Only FhARID2 showed a correlation in expression with FhARID1 among the ARID-related genes,further supporting the notion that this gene may be involved in complex formation rather than acting alone.Yeast two-hybrid and MS/MS spectra further indicated that FhARID1 function requires casein kinase II-mediated post-transcriptional phosphorylation.This study elucidated the function of FhARID1 in citrus apomixis and axillary bud development,providing a fundamental basis for understanding the role of ARID-HMG-related genes.展开更多
Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited diseases that lead to retinal degeneration and photoreceptor cell death.However,there is no effective treatment for retinitis pigmentosa caused by PDE6B mutation.Adeno-asso...Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited diseases that lead to retinal degeneration and photoreceptor cell death.However,there is no effective treatment for retinitis pigmentosa caused by PDE6B mutation.Adeno-associated virus(AAV)-mediated gene therapy is a promising strategy for treating retinitis pigmentosa.The aim of this study was to explore the molecular mechanisms by which AAV2-PDE6B rescues retinal function.To do this,we injected retinal degeneration 10(rd10)mice subretinally with AAV2-PDE6B and assessed the therapeutic effects on retinal function and structure using dark-and light-adapted electroretinogram,optical coherence tomography,and immunofluorescence.Data-independent acquisition-mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis was conducted to investigate protein expression levels and pathway enrichment,and the results from this analysis were verified by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting.AAV2-PDE6B injection significantly upregulated PDE6βexpression,preserved electroretinogram responses,and preserved outer nuclear layer thickness in rd10 mice.Differentially expressed proteins between wild-type and rd10 mice were closely related to visual perception,and treating rd10 mice with AAV2-PDE6B restored differentially expressed protein expression to levels similar to those seen in wild-type mice.Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome analysis showed that the differentially expressed proteins whose expression was most significantly altered by AAV2-PDE6B injection were enriched in phototransduction pathways.Furthermore,the phototransductionrelated proteins Pde6α,Rom1,Rho,Aldh1a1,and Rbp1 exhibited opposite expression patterns in rd10 mice with or without AAV2-PDE6B treatment.Finally,Bax/Bcl-2,p-ERK/ERK,and p-c-Fos/c-Fos expression levels decreased in rd10 mice following AAV2-PDE6B treatment.Our data suggest that AAV2-PDE6B-mediated gene therapy promotes phototransduction and inhibits apoptosis by inhibiting the ERK signaling pathway and upregulating Bcl-2/Bax expression in retinitis pigmentosa.展开更多
Objective To investigate the structural changes of rat thoracic aorta and changes in expression levels of Bmal1 and cyclins in thoracic aorta endothelial cells following heat stress.Methods Twenty male SD rats were ra...Objective To investigate the structural changes of rat thoracic aorta and changes in expression levels of Bmal1 and cyclins in thoracic aorta endothelial cells following heat stress.Methods Twenty male SD rats were randomized equally into control group and heat stress group.After exposure to 32℃for 2 weeks in the latter group,the rats were examined for histopathological changes and Bmal1 expression in the thoracic aorta using HE staining and immunohistochemistry.In the cell experiments,cultured rat thoracic aortic endothelial cells(RTAECs)were incubated at 40℃for 12 h with or without prior transfection with a Bmal1-specific small interfering RNA(si-Bmal1)or a negative sequence.In both rat thoracic aorta and RTAECs,the expressions of Bmal1,the cell cycle proteins CDK1,CDK4,CDK6,and cyclin B1,and apoptosis-related proteins Bax and Bcl-2 were detected using Western blotting.TUNEL staining was used to detect cell apoptosis in rat thoracic aorta,and the changes in cell cycle distribution and apoptosis in RTAECs were analyzed with flow cytometry.Results Compared with the control rats,the rats exposed to heat stress showed significantly increased blood pressures and lowered heart rate with elastic fiber disruption and increased expressions of Bmal1,cyclin B1 and CDK1 in the thoracic aorta(P<0.05).In cultured RTAECs,heat stress caused significant increase of Bmal1,cyclin B1 and CDK1 protein expression levels,which were obviously lowered in cells with prior si-Bmal1 transfection.Bmal1 knockdown also inhibited heat stress-induced increase of apoptosis in RTAECs as evidenced by decreased expression of Bax and increased expression of Bcl-2.Conclusion Heat stress upregulates Bmal1 expression and causes alterations in expressions of cyclins to trigger apoptosis of rat thoracic aorta endothelial cells,which can be partly alleviated by suppressing Bmal1 expression.展开更多
Objective:Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis(MASH),a progressive subtype of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD),is characterized by hepatic steatosis,lobular inflammation,and ...Objective:Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis(MASH),a progressive subtype of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD),is characterized by hepatic steatosis,lobular inflammation,and hepatocyte ballooning,and may further progress to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1(LOX-1),a member of the scavenger receptor family,recognizes and binds oxidized low-density lipoprotein.This study aims to investigate the role of LOX-1 in MASH progression.Methods:LOX-1 expression in MASLD mouse liver was analyzed using Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)datasets.Immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect LOX-1 and alpha-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)levels and co-localization in fibrotic liver tissues and LX-2 cells.LOX-1 knockout(Lox-1^(−/−))mice were generated using CRISPR/caspase-9(Cas9)and genotyped by PCR and Sanger sequencing.Wild-type(WT)and Lox-1^(−/−)mice were randomized into control and Western diet model groups.Serum and liver samples were collected for alanine aminotransferase(ALT)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)measurement by biochemical kits,liver structure evaluation by hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining,collagen deposition by Masson staining,lipid accumulation by Oil Red O staining,and fibrotic marker gene expression by real-time quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR).Network pharmacology and search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins(STRING)-based protein-protein interaction(PPI)with Gene Ontology(GO)enrichment were used to predict downstream targets and pathways.Results:The results from the GEO datasets GSE30552 and GSE40041 indicated LOX-1 mRNA was upregulated in high fat diet(HFD)and bile duct ligation(BDL)mouse models(both P<0.001).LOX-1 and α-SMA levels were elevated in fibrotic liver tissues.Lox-1^(−/−)mice were successfully established.Biochemical tests showed that serum AST and ALT levels were significantly elevated in WT mice fed a Western diet(both P<0.001),and these levels decreased after LOX-1 knockout(both P<0.05).HE staining revealed that WT mice on the Western diet exhibited marked hepatocellular ballooning degeneration,steatosis,inflammatory cell infiltration,and periportal fibroplasia,which were significantly ameliorated by LOX-1 knockout.Masson staining demonstrated increased blue-stained collagen fibers in the liver tissues of WT mice fed the Western diet compared with controldiet mice,and LOX-1 knockout inhibited collagen fiber deposition(all P<0.05).RT‑qPCR results showed that hepatic mRNA levels of Acta2,Col1a1,and Timp1 were significantly increased in Western diet-fed mice,and LOX-1 knockout reduced the expression of these fibrogenic marker genes.Oil Red O staining indicated that hepatocytes in WT mice fed the Western diet were notably enlarged,displayed macrovesicular steatosis,and exhibited diffusely distributed red lipid droplets,whereas LOX-1 knockout alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation(both P<0.001).RT‑qPCR results further demonstrated that knockdown of LOX-1 reduced Acta2,Col1a1,and Timp1 mRNA levels in LX‑2 cells(all P<0.05).Immunofluorescence analysis revealed co‑localization of LOX-1 and α‑SMA in LX‑2 cells,and LOX-1 silencing suppressed α‑SMA expression.Network pharmacology suggested LOX-1 may promote MASH via lipid and cholesterol metabolism networks.Conclusion:LOX-1 gene knockout ameliorates Western diet-induced MASH in mice and may serve as a potential therapeutic target.展开更多
The forkhead box(FOX)family represents a class of transcription factors characterized by a distinctive winged helical structure.Forkhead box A1(FOXA1),a member of the forkhead box A(FOXA)subfamily within the FOX gene ...The forkhead box(FOX)family represents a class of transcription factors characterized by a distinctive winged helical structure.Forkhead box A1(FOXA1),a member of the forkhead box A(FOXA)subfamily within the FOX gene family,was the first forkhead protein identified in mammals.It serves as a pivotal transcription factor in tissue-specific differentiation and functions.Upon activation,owing to its unique structural domains,FOXA1 can interact with nucleosomes to open chromatin,thereby facilitating the recruitment of other transcription factors.These factorsmay act independently or synergistically with recruited transcription factors to regulate gene expression.Consequently,FOXA1 and other FOXA subfamily members with similar functions are referred to as“pioneer factors.”In recent years,studies on FOXA1 have advanced our understanding of its crucial role in gene regulation and involvement in disease processes.However,owing to their tissue-specific effects and varying biological behaviors in different environmental contexts,the underlying mechanisms remain elusive.Weused the PubMed database to better understand the complexmechanisms of FOXA1.By using keywords such as“FOXA1”and“transcription factor,”an extensive literature was retrieved,and many of the most relevant publications were screened.The selected studies were then thoroughly synthesized and summarized.This review synthesizes recent findings on FOXA1,encompassing its structural characteristics,domain functions,roles in embryonic development and the maintenance of adult organ morphology and function,interactions with histone posttranslational modifications in gene regulation,and the influence of its posttranslational modifications on gene expression.We also explore the involvement of FOXA1 in various diseases.By elucidating the biological mechanisms and disease-related roles of FOXA1,this review aims to provide insights for future research on its complex mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.展开更多
BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease(CHD)is a prominent cause of mortality and disability worldwide.Like most complex diseases,the risk of CHD in individuals is regulated by the interaction between genetic factors and li...BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease(CHD)is a prominent cause of mortality and disability worldwide.Like most complex diseases,the risk of CHD in individuals is regulated by the interaction between genetic factors and lifestyle.APOE and SLCO1B1 genetic polymorphisms and LPA KIV-2 copy number variation may influence the development and progression of CHD.Clarifying gene polymor-phisms can guide clinical precision and prevention,thereby improving treatment outcomes.AIM To investigate the influence of APOE and SLCO1B1 gene polymorphisms,as well as LPA KIV-2 copy number variation on CHD in the Teochew population.METHODS A total of 324 patients with CHD and 143 control participants were involved in this study.Single nucleotide polymorphisms rs429358 and rs7412 in the APOE gene,and rs2306283 and rs4149056 in the SLCO1B1 gene were analyzed via high-resolution melting curve analysis.Additionally,PCR was performed to detect KIV-2 copy number variations.Clinical risk factors and potential effects on CHD patients were subsequently assessed.RESULTS In the CHD group,the frequencies of APOE alleleε2,ε3,ε4 were 8.02%,82.97%,and 9.10%,respectively.Compared to the control groups(13.29%,79.37%,and 7.34%,respectively),theε2 allele frequency showed a significant difference(8.02%vs 13.29%,P=0.012).SLCO1B1 allele frequencies in the CHD group were not significantly different from those in the control group(*1a:26.69%vs 25.52%,*1b:61.17%vs 65.38%,*5:0.15%vs 0.35%,*15:11.83%vs 8.74%).The number of copies of the KIV-2 gene was significantly lower in the CHD group when compared to controls(23.35±8.78 vs 27.21±9.48;P<0.01).Logistic regression analysis revealed that sex,age,hypertension,diabetes,smoking,theε2 allele and KIV-2 copy number were factors influencing the presence of CHD.CONCLUSION In the Teochew population,the APOEε2 allele and a higher KIV-2 copy number were associated with a reduced risk of CHD.In contrast,the APOEε4 allele and SLCO1B1 gene were not associated with CHD.展开更多
Liver diseases are progressive conditions driven by multiple factors,including molecular regulators such as nonprotein-coding RNAs,which orchestrate genetic and epigenetic processes across various biological levels.Lo...Liver diseases are progressive conditions driven by multiple factors,including molecular regulators such as nonprotein-coding RNAs,which orchestrate genetic and epigenetic processes across various biological levels.Long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs),RNA molecules longer than 200 nucleotides,have been identified as key modulators in both cancerous and noncancerous liver diseases.Among them,taurine-upregulated gene 1(TUG1),one of the earliest discovered lncRNAs,has emerged as a tumor promoter in hepatocellular carcinoma.Functionally,TUG1 exerts its regulatory effects primarily through microRNA sponging as a competing endogenous RNA while also exhibiting protein-binding capabilities that suggest additional roles in both transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation.Furthermore,evidence suggests that dysregulation of TUG1 is closely linked to the development and progression of liver diseases.This review explores the key characteristics,mechanisms,and signaling pathways through which TUG1 affects liver disease,offering fresh insights into potential therapeutic directions and new avenues for future TUG1-related research.展开更多
Maize(Zea mays L.)is a globally significant crop essential for food,feed,and bioenergy production.The maize kernel,serving as a primary sink for starch,proteins,lipids,and essential micronutrients,is crucial for enhan...Maize(Zea mays L.)is a globally significant crop essential for food,feed,and bioenergy production.The maize kernel,serving as a primary sink for starch,proteins,lipids,and essential micronutrients,is crucial for enhancing maize yield and quality.Previous studies have established the critical role of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2(PRC2)in regulating kernel development.In this study,we applied a reverse genetics approach to investigate the role of ZmFIE1,the homolog of the PRC2 complex component Extra sex combs(Esc),in maize development.The functional loss of ZmFIE1 significantly reduces embryo size in the early stage but has a relatively small impact on mature kernels.Integrating transcriptional and metabolomic profiling suggests that ZmFIE1 is involved in regulating nutrient balance between the endosperm and embryo.In addition,we demonstrate that ZmFIE1 is maternally expressed,and that the maternal inheritance of the fie1 allele significantly affects the imprinting status of paternally imprinted genes.Overall,our results suggest that ZmFIE1 is a key gene involved in the modulation of embryo development via regulating genomic imprinting and nutrient balance between embryo and endosperm,which provides new insights into the regulation mechanism underlying kernel development.展开更多
Flight feathers represent a hallmark innovation of avian evolution.Recent comparative genomic analyses identified a 284 bp avian-specific highly conserved element(ASHCE)located within the eighth intron of the SIM bHLH...Flight feathers represent a hallmark innovation of avian evolution.Recent comparative genomic analyses identified a 284 bp avian-specific highly conserved element(ASHCE)located within the eighth intron of the SIM bHLH transcription factor 1(Sim1)gene,postulated to act as a cis-regulatory element governing flight feather morphogenesis.To investigate its functional significance,genome-edited(GE)primordial germ cell(PGC)lines carrying targeted ASHCE deletions were generated using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing,with germline chimeric males subsequently mated with wild-type(WT)hens to obtain GE progeny.The resulting GE chickens harbored 257-260 bp deletions,excising approximately half of the Sim1-ASHCE sequence.Reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)analysis showed an average 0.32-fold reduction in Sim1 expression in the forelimbs of GE embryos at day 8(E8)compared to WT counterparts.Despite this,GE chickens developed structurally normal flight and tail feathers.In situ hybridization localized Sim1 expression to the posterior mesenchyme surrounding flight feather buds in E8 WT embryos,but not within the buds themselves.These results suggest that partial deletion of Sim1-ASHCE,despite diminishing Sim1 expression,does not disrupt flight feather formation.The excised region appears to possess enhancer activity toward Sim1 but is dispensable for flight feather development.Complete ablation of the ASHCE will be necessary to fully resolve the regulatory role of Sim1 in avian feather morphogenesis.展开更多
基金Funding for this research was provided by the Australia Grain Research and Development Corporation(9176507)the Western Crop Genetics Alliance.Jingye Cheng thanks The University of Tasmania,Australia for the scholarship(495802)。
文摘Improved yield potential is the goal of barley domestication and cultivation.During this process,two-and six-rowed barley types emerged and have been utilised in breeding and production.The six-rowed type could produce three times as many grains as its ancestral two-rowed forms,thus dominating barley cultivation for thousands of years.The deficiens form of the two-rowed type,characterised by extremely suppressed lateral spikelets,has gained dominance over the past few decades in barley-growing regions worldwide.We hypothesised that the absence of lateral spikelets in deficiens barley affects spike architecture and spike-related traits,contributing to its superior yield potential of deficiens barley cultivation.Currently,a deficiens barley variety,RGT Planet,is the most popular barley variety in the world.In this study,we used two F_(2) populations derived from crossing RGT Planet with two canonical two-rowed barley and identified the functional allele Vrs1.t1 associated with deficiens morphology.We observed that the Vrs1.t1 allele may contribute to high yield potential by optimising spike architecture through increased spikelet length,grain number,and grain size.Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the deficiens mutation was likely present from the early stages of barley cultivation in the Fertile Crescent and spread to Ethiopia and beyond with agricultural expansion.We conclude that the ancient deficiens allele Vrs1.t1 has been a critical driver for the recent success of modern barley improvement by optimising spike architecture.
文摘目的探讨星状神经节阻滞(SGB)通过长链非编码RNA(lncRNA)牛磺酸上调基因1(TUG1)-NOD样受体热蛋白结构域相关蛋白3(NLRP3)轴在体外脑缺血再灌注模型中对炎症反应和自噬溶酶体形成的调节作用。方法培养大鼠海马神经元细胞系H19-7,并将细胞分为8组:(i)正常对照组:正常培养的神经元细胞;(ii)氧-糖剥夺/复氧(OGD/R)组:采用氧-糖剥夺/复氧法模拟脑缺血再灌注损伤;(iii)OGD/R+SGB组:OGD/R联合麻醉药0.5%布比卡因用于体外模拟SGB;(iv)OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达阴性对照组:OGD/R联合布比卡因并联合TUG1过表达阴性对照质粒转染细胞;(v)OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达组:OGD/R联合布比卡因并联合TUG1过表达质粒转染细胞;(vi)OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达+MCC950组:OGD/R联合布比卡因、TUG1过表达质粒转染及NLRP3抑制剂MCC950处理细胞;(vii)OGD/R+TUG1过表达组:OGD/R联合TUG1过表达质粒转染细胞;(viii)OGD/R+MCC950组:OGD/R联合NLRP3抑制剂MCC950处理细胞。进一步通过实时定量PCR(Quantitative Real Time PCR,qRTPCR)实验检测细胞中lncRNATUG1的表达;利用Western blot法检测细胞中NLRP3、微管相关蛋白1轻链3(LC3)-I、LC3-II、自噬相关基因5(Atg5)、苄氯素1(beclin1)、自噬接头蛋白(p62)、溶酶体相关膜蛋白1(LAMP1)的表达水平;利用透射电镜(TEM)检测自噬溶酶体的数量;并用酶联免疫吸附测定(ELISA)法检测细胞培养上清中白细胞介素(IL)-1β、IL-6、IL-18、肿瘤坏死因子(TNF)-α的含量。结果与正常对照组相比,OGD/R组lncRNA TUG1、NLRP3、Atg5、beclin1、p62、LAMP1的表达水平以及LC3-II/I比值均显著上调(^(均)P<0.05),自噬溶酶体数量增加(P<0.05),IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18、TNF-α的含量显著升高(^(均)P<0.05)。与OGD/R组相比,OGD/R+SGB组的上述指标均显著下调(P<0.05)。与OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达阴性对照组相比,OGD/R+SGB+TUG1过表达组的lncRNA TUG1、NLRP3、Atg5、beclin1、p62、LAMP1的表达水平以及LC3-II/I比值均显著上调(^(均)P<0.05),自噬溶酶体数量增加(P<0.05),IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18、TNF-α的含量显著升高(^(均)P<0.05),然而,加入NLRP3的抑制剂MCC950后,除lncRNA TUG1外其余指标均显著下调(^(均)P<0.05)。另外,与OGD/R组比,OGD/R+TUG1过表达组的上述指标进一步上调(^(均)P<0.05)。与OGD/R组比,OGD/R+MCC950组则抑制了除lncRNA TUG1外的其余指标(^(均)P<0.05)。结论星状神经节阻滞通过调节lncRNA TUG1-NLRP3轴有效减轻体外脑缺血再灌注损伤引起的炎症反应和自噬溶酶体形成,提示其可能作为治疗缺血性脑损伤的潜在策略。
基金funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2022YFF1003100)Modern Citrus Industry Technology System of China(Grant No.CARS-26).
文摘Polyembryony has posed a significant impediment to the advancement of citrus hybrid breeding.FhRWP is widely regarded as a pivotal factor governing asexual reproduction in citrus,and prior research has demonstrated that FhARID1,acting as an upstream regulator,modulates FhRWP expression.In this study,we performed a genome-wide characterization of the ARID-HMG-related genes using the short juvenile minicitrus Fortunella hindsii.A total of 20 ARID-HMG-related genes were identified.Protein interaction network and enrichment analysis suggested that ARID-HMG-related proteins might might be involved in chromatin remodeling complexes.Knockout of FhARID1 in F.hindsii did not induce the conversion from polyembryony to monoembryony.However,fharid1 plants in T1 generation exhibited abnormal proliferation at axillary buds,which is similar to phenotype of fhrwp plants.Expression analysis of fharid1 ovary tissues revealed the downregulation of FhRWP.The results indicated that FhARID1,as an upstream regulator of FhRWP,has an effect on the development of citrus axillary buds.Expression analysis of overexpressed leaves of FhARID1 lines showed that no significant up-regulation of FhRWP,indicating that FhARID1 is not the sole upstream regulatory factor of FhRWP.Only FhARID2 showed a correlation in expression with FhARID1 among the ARID-related genes,further supporting the notion that this gene may be involved in complex formation rather than acting alone.Yeast two-hybrid and MS/MS spectra further indicated that FhARID1 function requires casein kinase II-mediated post-transcriptional phosphorylation.This study elucidated the function of FhARID1 in citrus apomixis and axillary bud development,providing a fundamental basis for understanding the role of ARID-HMG-related genes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82071008(to BL)and 82004001(to XJ)Medical Science and Technology Program of Health Commission of Henan Province,No.LHGJ20210072(to RQ)Science and Technology Department of Henan Province,No.212102310307(to XJ)。
文摘Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited diseases that lead to retinal degeneration and photoreceptor cell death.However,there is no effective treatment for retinitis pigmentosa caused by PDE6B mutation.Adeno-associated virus(AAV)-mediated gene therapy is a promising strategy for treating retinitis pigmentosa.The aim of this study was to explore the molecular mechanisms by which AAV2-PDE6B rescues retinal function.To do this,we injected retinal degeneration 10(rd10)mice subretinally with AAV2-PDE6B and assessed the therapeutic effects on retinal function and structure using dark-and light-adapted electroretinogram,optical coherence tomography,and immunofluorescence.Data-independent acquisition-mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis was conducted to investigate protein expression levels and pathway enrichment,and the results from this analysis were verified by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting.AAV2-PDE6B injection significantly upregulated PDE6βexpression,preserved electroretinogram responses,and preserved outer nuclear layer thickness in rd10 mice.Differentially expressed proteins between wild-type and rd10 mice were closely related to visual perception,and treating rd10 mice with AAV2-PDE6B restored differentially expressed protein expression to levels similar to those seen in wild-type mice.Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome analysis showed that the differentially expressed proteins whose expression was most significantly altered by AAV2-PDE6B injection were enriched in phototransduction pathways.Furthermore,the phototransductionrelated proteins Pde6α,Rom1,Rho,Aldh1a1,and Rbp1 exhibited opposite expression patterns in rd10 mice with or without AAV2-PDE6B treatment.Finally,Bax/Bcl-2,p-ERK/ERK,and p-c-Fos/c-Fos expression levels decreased in rd10 mice following AAV2-PDE6B treatment.Our data suggest that AAV2-PDE6B-mediated gene therapy promotes phototransduction and inhibits apoptosis by inhibiting the ERK signaling pathway and upregulating Bcl-2/Bax expression in retinitis pigmentosa.
文摘Objective To investigate the structural changes of rat thoracic aorta and changes in expression levels of Bmal1 and cyclins in thoracic aorta endothelial cells following heat stress.Methods Twenty male SD rats were randomized equally into control group and heat stress group.After exposure to 32℃for 2 weeks in the latter group,the rats were examined for histopathological changes and Bmal1 expression in the thoracic aorta using HE staining and immunohistochemistry.In the cell experiments,cultured rat thoracic aortic endothelial cells(RTAECs)were incubated at 40℃for 12 h with or without prior transfection with a Bmal1-specific small interfering RNA(si-Bmal1)or a negative sequence.In both rat thoracic aorta and RTAECs,the expressions of Bmal1,the cell cycle proteins CDK1,CDK4,CDK6,and cyclin B1,and apoptosis-related proteins Bax and Bcl-2 were detected using Western blotting.TUNEL staining was used to detect cell apoptosis in rat thoracic aorta,and the changes in cell cycle distribution and apoptosis in RTAECs were analyzed with flow cytometry.Results Compared with the control rats,the rats exposed to heat stress showed significantly increased blood pressures and lowered heart rate with elastic fiber disruption and increased expressions of Bmal1,cyclin B1 and CDK1 in the thoracic aorta(P<0.05).In cultured RTAECs,heat stress caused significant increase of Bmal1,cyclin B1 and CDK1 protein expression levels,which were obviously lowered in cells with prior si-Bmal1 transfection.Bmal1 knockdown also inhibited heat stress-induced increase of apoptosis in RTAECs as evidenced by decreased expression of Bax and increased expression of Bcl-2.Conclusion Heat stress upregulates Bmal1 expression and causes alterations in expressions of cyclins to trigger apoptosis of rat thoracic aorta endothelial cells,which can be partly alleviated by suppressing Bmal1 expression.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province,China(211142095031)。
文摘Objective:Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis(MASH),a progressive subtype of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD),is characterized by hepatic steatosis,lobular inflammation,and hepatocyte ballooning,and may further progress to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1(LOX-1),a member of the scavenger receptor family,recognizes and binds oxidized low-density lipoprotein.This study aims to investigate the role of LOX-1 in MASH progression.Methods:LOX-1 expression in MASLD mouse liver was analyzed using Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)datasets.Immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect LOX-1 and alpha-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)levels and co-localization in fibrotic liver tissues and LX-2 cells.LOX-1 knockout(Lox-1^(−/−))mice were generated using CRISPR/caspase-9(Cas9)and genotyped by PCR and Sanger sequencing.Wild-type(WT)and Lox-1^(−/−)mice were randomized into control and Western diet model groups.Serum and liver samples were collected for alanine aminotransferase(ALT)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)measurement by biochemical kits,liver structure evaluation by hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining,collagen deposition by Masson staining,lipid accumulation by Oil Red O staining,and fibrotic marker gene expression by real-time quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR).Network pharmacology and search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins(STRING)-based protein-protein interaction(PPI)with Gene Ontology(GO)enrichment were used to predict downstream targets and pathways.Results:The results from the GEO datasets GSE30552 and GSE40041 indicated LOX-1 mRNA was upregulated in high fat diet(HFD)and bile duct ligation(BDL)mouse models(both P<0.001).LOX-1 and α-SMA levels were elevated in fibrotic liver tissues.Lox-1^(−/−)mice were successfully established.Biochemical tests showed that serum AST and ALT levels were significantly elevated in WT mice fed a Western diet(both P<0.001),and these levels decreased after LOX-1 knockout(both P<0.05).HE staining revealed that WT mice on the Western diet exhibited marked hepatocellular ballooning degeneration,steatosis,inflammatory cell infiltration,and periportal fibroplasia,which were significantly ameliorated by LOX-1 knockout.Masson staining demonstrated increased blue-stained collagen fibers in the liver tissues of WT mice fed the Western diet compared with controldiet mice,and LOX-1 knockout inhibited collagen fiber deposition(all P<0.05).RT‑qPCR results showed that hepatic mRNA levels of Acta2,Col1a1,and Timp1 were significantly increased in Western diet-fed mice,and LOX-1 knockout reduced the expression of these fibrogenic marker genes.Oil Red O staining indicated that hepatocytes in WT mice fed the Western diet were notably enlarged,displayed macrovesicular steatosis,and exhibited diffusely distributed red lipid droplets,whereas LOX-1 knockout alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation(both P<0.001).RT‑qPCR results further demonstrated that knockdown of LOX-1 reduced Acta2,Col1a1,and Timp1 mRNA levels in LX‑2 cells(all P<0.05).Immunofluorescence analysis revealed co‑localization of LOX-1 and α‑SMA in LX‑2 cells,and LOX-1 silencing suppressed α‑SMA expression.Network pharmacology suggested LOX-1 may promote MASH via lipid and cholesterol metabolism networks.Conclusion:LOX-1 gene knockout ameliorates Western diet-induced MASH in mice and may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.82470042)Liaoning Provincial Joint Science and Technology Plan (No.2023JH2/101800021)+1 种基金Basic Scientific Research Project of Liaoning Provincial Department of Education (No.LJKMZ20221186)Shenyang Municipal Public Health Research and Development Special Project (No.LJKMZ20221186)
文摘The forkhead box(FOX)family represents a class of transcription factors characterized by a distinctive winged helical structure.Forkhead box A1(FOXA1),a member of the forkhead box A(FOXA)subfamily within the FOX gene family,was the first forkhead protein identified in mammals.It serves as a pivotal transcription factor in tissue-specific differentiation and functions.Upon activation,owing to its unique structural domains,FOXA1 can interact with nucleosomes to open chromatin,thereby facilitating the recruitment of other transcription factors.These factorsmay act independently or synergistically with recruited transcription factors to regulate gene expression.Consequently,FOXA1 and other FOXA subfamily members with similar functions are referred to as“pioneer factors.”In recent years,studies on FOXA1 have advanced our understanding of its crucial role in gene regulation and involvement in disease processes.However,owing to their tissue-specific effects and varying biological behaviors in different environmental contexts,the underlying mechanisms remain elusive.Weused the PubMed database to better understand the complexmechanisms of FOXA1.By using keywords such as“FOXA1”and“transcription factor,”an extensive literature was retrieved,and many of the most relevant publications were screened.The selected studies were then thoroughly synthesized and summarized.This review synthesizes recent findings on FOXA1,encompassing its structural characteristics,domain functions,roles in embryonic development and the maintenance of adult organ morphology and function,interactions with histone posttranslational modifications in gene regulation,and the influence of its posttranslational modifications on gene expression.We also explore the involvement of FOXA1 in various diseases.By elucidating the biological mechanisms and disease-related roles of FOXA1,this review aims to provide insights for future research on its complex mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
基金Supported by Special Research Plan 2023 of Chaozhou,No.202303GY05。
文摘BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease(CHD)is a prominent cause of mortality and disability worldwide.Like most complex diseases,the risk of CHD in individuals is regulated by the interaction between genetic factors and lifestyle.APOE and SLCO1B1 genetic polymorphisms and LPA KIV-2 copy number variation may influence the development and progression of CHD.Clarifying gene polymor-phisms can guide clinical precision and prevention,thereby improving treatment outcomes.AIM To investigate the influence of APOE and SLCO1B1 gene polymorphisms,as well as LPA KIV-2 copy number variation on CHD in the Teochew population.METHODS A total of 324 patients with CHD and 143 control participants were involved in this study.Single nucleotide polymorphisms rs429358 and rs7412 in the APOE gene,and rs2306283 and rs4149056 in the SLCO1B1 gene were analyzed via high-resolution melting curve analysis.Additionally,PCR was performed to detect KIV-2 copy number variations.Clinical risk factors and potential effects on CHD patients were subsequently assessed.RESULTS In the CHD group,the frequencies of APOE alleleε2,ε3,ε4 were 8.02%,82.97%,and 9.10%,respectively.Compared to the control groups(13.29%,79.37%,and 7.34%,respectively),theε2 allele frequency showed a significant difference(8.02%vs 13.29%,P=0.012).SLCO1B1 allele frequencies in the CHD group were not significantly different from those in the control group(*1a:26.69%vs 25.52%,*1b:61.17%vs 65.38%,*5:0.15%vs 0.35%,*15:11.83%vs 8.74%).The number of copies of the KIV-2 gene was significantly lower in the CHD group when compared to controls(23.35±8.78 vs 27.21±9.48;P<0.01).Logistic regression analysis revealed that sex,age,hypertension,diabetes,smoking,theε2 allele and KIV-2 copy number were factors influencing the presence of CHD.CONCLUSION In the Teochew population,the APOEε2 allele and a higher KIV-2 copy number were associated with a reduced risk of CHD.In contrast,the APOEε4 allele and SLCO1B1 gene were not associated with CHD.
文摘Liver diseases are progressive conditions driven by multiple factors,including molecular regulators such as nonprotein-coding RNAs,which orchestrate genetic and epigenetic processes across various biological levels.Long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs),RNA molecules longer than 200 nucleotides,have been identified as key modulators in both cancerous and noncancerous liver diseases.Among them,taurine-upregulated gene 1(TUG1),one of the earliest discovered lncRNAs,has emerged as a tumor promoter in hepatocellular carcinoma.Functionally,TUG1 exerts its regulatory effects primarily through microRNA sponging as a competing endogenous RNA while also exhibiting protein-binding capabilities that suggest additional roles in both transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation.Furthermore,evidence suggests that dysregulation of TUG1 is closely linked to the development and progression of liver diseases.This review explores the key characteristics,mechanisms,and signaling pathways through which TUG1 affects liver disease,offering fresh insights into potential therapeutic directions and new avenues for future TUG1-related research.
基金supported by STI2030-Major Projects(2023ZD04069,Z231100003723004)the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars(32425041)the Chinese Universities Scientific Fund(2024TC165).
文摘Maize(Zea mays L.)is a globally significant crop essential for food,feed,and bioenergy production.The maize kernel,serving as a primary sink for starch,proteins,lipids,and essential micronutrients,is crucial for enhancing maize yield and quality.Previous studies have established the critical role of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2(PRC2)in regulating kernel development.In this study,we applied a reverse genetics approach to investigate the role of ZmFIE1,the homolog of the PRC2 complex component Extra sex combs(Esc),in maize development.The functional loss of ZmFIE1 significantly reduces embryo size in the early stage but has a relatively small impact on mature kernels.Integrating transcriptional and metabolomic profiling suggests that ZmFIE1 is involved in regulating nutrient balance between the endosperm and embryo.In addition,we demonstrate that ZmFIE1 is maternally expressed,and that the maternal inheritance of the fie1 allele significantly affects the imprinting status of paternally imprinted genes.Overall,our results suggest that ZmFIE1 is a key gene involved in the modulation of embryo development via regulating genomic imprinting and nutrient balance between embryo and endosperm,which provides new insights into the regulation mechanism underlying kernel development.
基金supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People's Republic of China(125A0607)Department of Science and Technology of Yunnan Province(XDYC-KJLJ-2022-0004)。
文摘Flight feathers represent a hallmark innovation of avian evolution.Recent comparative genomic analyses identified a 284 bp avian-specific highly conserved element(ASHCE)located within the eighth intron of the SIM bHLH transcription factor 1(Sim1)gene,postulated to act as a cis-regulatory element governing flight feather morphogenesis.To investigate its functional significance,genome-edited(GE)primordial germ cell(PGC)lines carrying targeted ASHCE deletions were generated using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing,with germline chimeric males subsequently mated with wild-type(WT)hens to obtain GE progeny.The resulting GE chickens harbored 257-260 bp deletions,excising approximately half of the Sim1-ASHCE sequence.Reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)analysis showed an average 0.32-fold reduction in Sim1 expression in the forelimbs of GE embryos at day 8(E8)compared to WT counterparts.Despite this,GE chickens developed structurally normal flight and tail feathers.In situ hybridization localized Sim1 expression to the posterior mesenchyme surrounding flight feather buds in E8 WT embryos,but not within the buds themselves.These results suggest that partial deletion of Sim1-ASHCE,despite diminishing Sim1 expression,does not disrupt flight feather formation.The excised region appears to possess enhancer activity toward Sim1 but is dispensable for flight feather development.Complete ablation of the ASHCE will be necessary to fully resolve the regulatory role of Sim1 in avian feather morphogenesis.
