Global brain ischemia and neurological deficit are consequences of cardiac arrest that lead to high mortality.Despite advancements in resuscitation science,our limited understanding of the cellular and molecular mecha...Global brain ischemia and neurological deficit are consequences of cardiac arrest that lead to high mortality.Despite advancements in resuscitation science,our limited understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying post-cardiac arrest brain injury have hindered the development of effective neuroprotective strategies.Previous studies primarily focused on neuronal death,potentially overlooking the contributions of non-neuronal cells and intercellular communication to the pathophysiology of cardiac arrest-induced brain injury.To address these gaps,we hypothesized that single-cell transcriptomic analysis could uncover previously unidentified cellular subpopulations,altered cell communication networks,and novel molecular mechanisms involved in post-cardiac arrest brain injury.In this study,we performed a single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the hippocampus from pigs with ventricular fibrillation-induced cardiac arrest at 6 and 24 hours following the return of spontaneous circulation,and from sham control pigs.Sequencing results revealed changes in the proportions of different cell types,suggesting post-arrest disruption in the blood-brain barrier and infiltration of neutrophils.These results were validated through western blotting,quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction,and immunofluorescence staining.We also identified and validated a unique subcluster of activated microglia with high expression of S100A8,which increased over time following cardiac arrest.This subcluster simultaneously exhibited significant M1/M2 polarization and expressed key functional genes related to chemokines and interleukins.Additionally,we revealed the post-cardiac arrest dysfunction of oligodendrocytes and the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells into oligodendrocytes.Cell communication analysis identified enhanced post-cardiac arrest communication between neutrophils and microglia that was mediated by neutrophil-derived resistin,driving pro-inflammatory microglial polarization.Our findings provide a comprehensive single-cell map of the post-cardiac arrest hippocampus,offering potential novel targets for neuroprotection and repair following cardiac arrest.展开更多
The triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease(3×Tg-AD)is a widely used model that exhibits region-dependent patterns of progressive amyloid-βand tau pathology.Although structural brain abnormalities ...The triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease(3×Tg-AD)is a widely used model that exhibits region-dependent patterns of progressive amyloid-βand tau pathology.Although structural brain abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging have been observed in 3×Tg-AD mice at later disease stages(>12 months)and as early as 2 months,few studies have investigated changes in these mice during the stage with extensive amyloid-βdeposition and onset of tau pathology(around 9 months).This study aimed to assess brain morphometry and microstructure alterations in 9 month-old 3×Tg-AD mice to better understand the neural mechanisms underlying these specific pathological features.Voxel-based analyses were employed on T2-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging to identify differences between 3×Tg-AD and control mice.Compared with controls,3×Tg-AD mice exhibited lower gray matter volume in several regions including both hippocampal regions,the right thalamus,the left caudoputamen,and the cortex.Reduced white matter volume was observed in fiber tracts including the corpus callosum,internal capsule,stria terminalis,and olfactory tract.Whole-brain diffusion tensor imaging analysis revealed a significant decrease in fractional anisotropy and an increase in both radial and mean diffusivity within the left dentate gyrus of the hippocampal region and right striatum-like amygdala nuclei,with no significant difference in axial diffusivity.Correlation analyses demonstrated significant associations between behavioral performance measures,with both gray and white matter volumes within regions showing significant morphometric differences.Notably,behavioral performance also exhibited significant correlations with diffusion tensor imaging measures particularly within the left dentate gyrus of the hippocampal region and right striatum-like amygdala nuclei.Immunofluorescence analysis confirmed increased amyloid-βplaques and p-Tau protein expression in the hippocampal regions of 3×Tg-AD mice,which corroborated the magnetic resonance imaging findings.Transcriptome analysis in hippocampus tissue identified 1389 differentially expressed genes.Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses revealed that numerous differentially expressed genes were enriched in biological processes relevant to synapse structure,cognition,learning,and memory,with particular emphasis on Wnt and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways.Collectively,these findings suggest that intricate anatomical and microstructural alterations occur in 3×Tg-AD model mice at the onset of pathology around 9 months,potentially driven by gene expression alterations.Moreover,our results support the potential utility of brain volume and diffusion metrics as biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease pathology,which could have significant implications for clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease patients.展开更多
Objective Adaptive immune responses play a critical role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS).In this study,we investigated the functional mechanisms of T cell subtypes and assessed the causal lin...Objective Adaptive immune responses play a critical role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS).In this study,we investigated the functional mechanisms of T cell subtypes and assessed the causal links between CD4+cytotoxic T cell-related genes and ALS risk.Methods Single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)of peripheral blood mononuclear cells(PBMCs)from patients with ALS and healthy controls(HC)was used to identify differentially expressed genes(DEGs)in CD4+cytotoxic T cells.Comprehensive analyses of CD4+cytotoxic T cells,including pseudotemporal trajectory,intercellular communication,and metabolic pathway analysis,were performed.Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis evaluated the causal effects of DEGs on ALS risk,with validation using independent genome-wide association study(GWAS)data.Expression patterns of the causal genes were further verified using scRNA-seq,bulk-seq,and clinical samples.Results CD4+cytotoxic T cells were significantly expanded in patients with ALS.The upregulated genes S100A6,SERPINB6,SMAD7,and TPST2 were positively correlated with ALS susceptibility,whereas DIP2A showed a protective association.Conclusion S100A6,SERPINB6,SMAD7,TPST2,and DIP2A were identified as causal genes and potential therapeutic targets in ALS,implicating CD4+cytotoxic T cells in the disease mechanisms.Further studies targeting these genes and neuroinflammatory pathways are warranted.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate Acupuncture-herb therapy modulates gut microbiota in abdominal obesity.METHODS:A randomized controlled trial was designed in accordance with standard protocols.Abdominally obese subjects were ...OBJECTIVE:To investigate Acupuncture-herb therapy modulates gut microbiota in abdominal obesity.METHODS:A randomized controlled trial was designed in accordance with standard protocols.Abdominally obese subjects were randomized into four groups:A2(Control):double placebo,A1(Needle):press needle+placebo herb,A3(herb):herbal medicine(Huatan Lishi Fang化痰利湿方)+placebo needle,A4(Combination):press needle+herbal medicine.After 12 weeks of treatment,groups were relabeled B1-B4.Weight,waist circumference,and body mass index were measured monthly.Gut microbiota was analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing for diversity and abundance.RESULTS:Combined needle-herb therapy significantly reduced waist circumference(P<0.05).All treatments altered gut microbiota composition.The combination group showed significant changes in diversity(Chao1,Shannon,Simpson;P<0.05).Needle therapy increased Bacteroidia;herbs reduced Lachnospiraceae and Megamonas.All results were significant(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Combined needle-herb treatment modulated 25 key gut flora across multiple taxonomic levels in abdominal obesity.It reduced Firmicutes and Bacteroidota.Bacteroidota,Actinobacteriota,and Prevotellaceae may suppress obesity,whereas Proteobacteria,Lachnospiraceae,and Megamonas may promote it.The combination specifically altered Bacteroidaceae,Lachnospiraceae,Bacteroidia,and Megamonas.展开更多
AIM:To explore the immune cell infiltration and molecular mechanisms of retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury(RIRI)to identify potential therapeutic targets.METHODS:In the bulk RNA-seq analysis,This study performed diff...AIM:To explore the immune cell infiltration and molecular mechanisms of retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury(RIRI)to identify potential therapeutic targets.METHODS:In the bulk RNA-seq analysis,This study performed differential gene expression analysis,weighted gene co-expression network analysis,and protein-protein interaction network analysis to identify hub genes.QuanTIseq was used to determine the composition of infiltrating immune cells.Following the identification of hub genes,single-cell RNA-seq analysis was employed to pinpoint the specific immune cell types expressing these hub genes.Cell-cell communication analysis to explore signaling pathways and interactions between immune cells was further performed.Finally,the expression of these key immune regulators in vivo using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)was validated.RESULTS:Bulk RNA-seq analysis identified Stat2,Irf7,Irgm1,Igtp,Parp9,Irgm2,Nlrc5,and Tap1 as hub genes,with strong correlations to immune cell infiltration.Single-cell RNA-seq analysis further revealed six immune cell clusters,showing Irf7 predominantly in microglia and Tap1 in dendritic cells(DCs).And cell-cell communication analysis showed that microglia and DCs play central roles in coordinating immune activity.qRT-PCR validated the upregulation of these genes.CONCLUSION:In the acute phase of RIRI,Irf7 and Tap1 may be the potential therapeutic targets to reduce inflammation and promote neurological function recovery.展开更多
Glial cells play crucial roles in regulating physiological and pathological functions,including sensation,the response to infection and acute injury,and chronic neurodegenerative disorders.Glial cells include astrocyt...Glial cells play crucial roles in regulating physiological and pathological functions,including sensation,the response to infection and acute injury,and chronic neurodegenerative disorders.Glial cells include astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system,and satellite glial cells and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.Despite the greater understanding of glial cell types and functional heterogeneity achieved through single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing in animal models,few studies have investigated the transcriptomic profiles of glial cells in the human spinal cord.Here,we used high-throughput single-nucleus RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to map the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes in the human spinal cord.To explore the conservation and divergence across species,we compared these findings with those from mice.In the human spinal cord,astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes were each divided into six distinct transcriptomic subclusters.In the mouse spinal cord,astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes were divided into five,four,and five distinct transcriptomic subclusters,respectively.The comparative results revealed substantial heterogeneity in all glial cell types between humans and mice.Additionally,we detected sex differences in gene expression in human spinal cord glial cells.Specifically,in all astrocyte subtypes,the levels of NEAT1 and CHI3L1 were higher in males than in females,whereas the levels of CST3 were lower in males than in females.In all microglial subtypes,all differentially expressed genes were located on the sex chromosomes.In addition to sex-specific gene differences,the levels of MT-ND4,MT2A,MT-ATP6,MT-CO3,MT-ND2,MT-ND3,and MT-CO_(2) in all spinal cord oligodendrocyte subtypes were higher in females than in males.Collectively,the present dataset extensively characterizes glial cell heterogeneity and offers a valuable resource for exploring the cellular basis of spinal cordrelated illnesses,including chronic pain,amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,and multiple sclerosis.展开更多
Gastric cancer(GC)remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality globally.Although significant progress has been made in treatment options,the survival rates for GC patients continue to be...Gastric cancer(GC)remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality globally.Although significant progress has been made in treatment options,the survival rates for GC patients continue to be low.This is primarily attributed to the intricate and insufficiently understood mechanisms of disease progression,as well as the considerable challenges associated with tumor hetero-geneity.The recent study by Tang et al provides a detailed single-cell RNA se-quencing analysis of GC across different stages,revealing dynamic changes in the tumor microenvironment and key immune responses.We aim to offer a compre-hensive interpretation of the study’s findings and propose several innovative directions for future academic research in gastric cancer.These include exploring advanced multi-omics approaches,leveraging spatial transcriptomics,integrating artificial intelligence for clinical applications,and developing novel immuno-therapy strategies.We further emphasize the importance of personalized medi-cine,early detection,and novel drug discovery techniques in improving GC treatment outcomes.展开更多
Pigeons and certain other avian species produce a milklike secretion in their crop sacs to nourish offspring,yet the detailed processes involved are not fully elucidated.This study investigated the crop sacs of 225-da...Pigeons and certain other avian species produce a milklike secretion in their crop sacs to nourish offspring,yet the detailed processes involved are not fully elucidated.This study investigated the crop sacs of 225-day-old unpaired non-lactating male pigeons(MN)and males initiating lactation on the first day after incubation(ML).Using RNA sequencing,ribosomeprofiling,andsingle-cell transcriptome sequencing(scRNA-seq),we identified a significant up-regulation of genes associated with ribosome assembly and protein synthesis in ML compared to MN.Results from scRNA-seq analysis identified 12distinct cell types and 22 clusters,with secretory epithelial cells(SECs)exhibiting marked expression of plasma cell markers,including IGLL1 and MZB1.RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization(RNA FISH)and IgY quantification confirmed the critical role of SECs in producing endogenous IgY during lactation.We propose that fibroblast-derived BAFF signals activate SECs,mimicking B cell transformation and enhancing protein production through the unfolded protein response(UPR).These findings shed light on the cellular dynamics of pigeon milk production and contribute to a broader understanding of avian biology.展开更多
Orthopedic conditions have emerged as global health concerns,impacting approximately 1.7 billion individuals worldwide.However,the limited understanding of the underlying pathological processes at the cellular and mol...Orthopedic conditions have emerged as global health concerns,impacting approximately 1.7 billion individuals worldwide.However,the limited understanding of the underlying pathological processes at the cellular and molecular level has hindered the development of comprehensive treatment options for these disorders.The advent of single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)technology has revolutionized biomedical research by enabling detailed examination of cellular and molecular diversity.Nevertheless,investigating mechanisms at the single-cell level in highly mineralized skeletal tissue poses technical challenges.In this comprehensive review,we present a streamlined approach to obtaining high-quality single cells from skeletal tissue and provide an overview of existing scRNA-seq technologies employed in skeletal studies along with practical bioinformatic analysis pipelines.By utilizing these methodologies,crucial insights into the developmental dynamics,maintenance of homeostasis,and pathological processes involved in spine,joint,bone,muscle,and tendon disorders have been uncovered.Specifically focusing on the joint diseases of degenerative disc disease,osteoarthritis,and rheumatoid arthritis using scRNA-seq has provided novel insights and a more nuanced comprehension.These findings have paved the way for discovering novel therapeutic targets that offer potential benefits to patients suffering from diverse skeletal disorders.展开更多
The study of Tang et al investigated the distribution and dynamic changes of cell populations in the tumor microenvironment of gastric cancer(GC)patients using single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).This comprehensive ...The study of Tang et al investigated the distribution and dynamic changes of cell populations in the tumor microenvironment of gastric cancer(GC)patients using single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).This comprehensive analysis highlights key interactions within the tumor microenvironment across different GC stages.Discussing applications of scRNA-seq data in clinical settings could pave the way for developing promising and personalized therapeutic strategies for GC patients.Therefore,further exploration of selecting anticancer drug candidates through gene screening derived from scRNA-seq will provide deeper insights into GC care.展开更多
Head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma(HNCSCC)remains underexplored compared to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma,particularly in relation to human papillomavirus(HPV)and molecular markers such as p16 and...Head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma(HNCSCC)remains underexplored compared to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma,particularly in relation to human papillomavirus(HPV)and molecular markers such as p16 and p53.While p16 is a well-established surrogate for HPV in oropharyngeal cancer,our review highlights its unreliable role in HNCSCC,where positivity is instead associated with recurrence and metastasis.Similarly,p53 illustrates a dual role-wild-type as a genomic safeguard,mutated as an oncogenic driver-complicating prognostication.Methodological considerations,including the limitations of immunohistochemistry for HPV detection,underscore the need for multi-method and molecular validation in future studies.Ultraviolet radiation is posited as a key modifier of p16 function,decoupling expression from tumor suppression.To contextualize these findings,we draw parallels to glioblastoma(GBM),where subclonal evolution,p53 dysfunction,and intratumoral heterogeneity drive relapse despite aggressive multimodal therapies.GBM exemplifies how bulk-level biomarker generalizations often obscure dynamic cellular ecosystems,reinforcing the necessity of single-cell and spatial approaches.Multi-omics integration-encompassing genome,transcriptome,proteome,and tumor microenvironment mapping-coupled with single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics,offers a path forward for resolving subclonal dynamics in both HNCSCC and GBM.These technologies provide the resolution needed to track tumor-immunestromal co-evolution,identify therapy-resistant clones,and anticipate recurrence.We argue for a N-of-1,patient-and cell-centric paradigm that reframes biomarkers not as static surrogates but as dynamic readouts of cancer evolution across time and tissue contexts.Conceptually,we propose kinetic and microenvironmental frameworks(e.g.,“load-and-lock”barriers;dormancy and immunesynapse stabilization)as hypothesis-generating avenues to stall clonal handoffs and improve outcome prediction.Together,these perspectives argue for revised biomarker frameworks in HNCSCC and ethically inclusive,mechanism-anchored studies that bridge discovery with individualized care.By bridging insights from HNCSCC with the lessons of GBM,this review underscores the need for ethically inclusive,mechanistically informed frameworks that integrate subclonal evolution,biomarker re-interpretation,and precision-personalized hybrid models.Such an approach will be essential for advancing from one-size-fits-all strategies to individualized lifetime cancer care.展开更多
BACKGROUND Understanding the status and function of tumor-infiltrating immune cells is essential for improving immunotherapeutic effects and predicting the clinical response in human patients with carcinoma.However,li...BACKGROUND Understanding the status and function of tumor-infiltrating immune cells is essential for improving immunotherapeutic effects and predicting the clinical response in human patients with carcinoma.However,little is known about tumor-infiltrating immune cells,and the corresponding research results in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)are limited.AIM To investigate potential biomarker genes that are important for the development of HCC and to understand how immune cell subsets react throughout this process.METHODS Using single-cell RNA sequencing and T-cell receptor sequencing,the heterogeneity and potential functions of immune cell subpopulations from HCC tissue and normal tissue adjacent to carcinoma,as well as their possible interactions,were analyzed.RESULTS Eight T-cell clusters from patients were analyzed and identified using bioinformatics,including six typical major Tcell clusters and two newly identified T-cell clusters,among which Fc epsilon receptor 1G+T cells were characterized by the upregulation of Fc epsilon receptor 1G,tyrosine kinase binding protein,and T cell receptor delta constant,whereas metallothionein 1E+T cells proliferated significantly in tumors.Differentially expressed genes,such as regulator of cell cycle,cysteine and serine rich nuclear protein 1,SMAD7 and metallothionein 1E,were identified as significantly upregulated in tumors and have potential as biomarkers.In association with T-cell receptor analysis,we inferred the clonal expansion characteristics of each T-cell cluster in HCC patients.CONCLUSION We identified lymphocyte subpopulations and potential biomarker genes critical for HCC development and revealed the clonal amplification of infiltrating T cells.These data provide valuable resources for understanding the response of immune cell subsets in HCC.展开更多
Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy(HIE),resulting from perinatal asphyxia-induced hypoxic-ischemic brain damage(HIBD),is a severe neurological disorder that impairs neurodevelopment,and no definitive therapies a...Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy(HIE),resulting from perinatal asphyxia-induced hypoxic-ischemic brain damage(HIBD),is a severe neurological disorder that impairs neurodevelopment,and no definitive therapies are available.The polyphenolic natural compound salvianolic acid C(SAC)exhibits antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and antiapoptotic properties.In this study,we evaluated the efficacy of SAC in treating HIE via animal and human brain organoid experiments.Human brain organoids served as a translational platform for assessing natural product efficacy and clinical effect prediction.Rat brain tissues were harvested at two time points(24 h and 7 d after HIBD and SAC administration)for single-nucleus RNA sequencing.In vitro and in vivo experiments,including microarrays and gene silencing,were employed to confirm the sequencing findings.Our findings demonstrated that during the acute phase of HIBD,SAC suppressed signal transducer and activator of transcription 3+(Stat3+)astrocyte-driven acute neuroinflammation,decreased inflammatory factor release,and maintained glial-immune homeostasis.During the subacute phase,SAC promoted oligodendrocyte differentiation and facilitated crosstalk between anti-inflammatory microglia and myelinating oligodendrocytes,establishing a regenerative microenvironment and enhancing neuregulin 3(NRG3)-receptor tyrosine-protein kinase erbB-4(ErbB4)signaling axis activity.These coordinated mechanisms highlight the dual capacity of SAC in mitigating early injury and driving structural repair in the later stages.This study revealed the pathophysiology of HIE and the multitarget neuroprotective effects of SAC against this disorder at single-cell resolution,advancing the mechanistic foundations for SAC-based therapies in neonatal brain injury.展开更多
Drought is one of the most important abiotic stresses affecting maize growth and development and therefore resulting in yield loss.Thus it is essential to understand molecular mechanisms of drought stress responses in...Drought is one of the most important abiotic stresses affecting maize growth and development and therefore resulting in yield loss.Thus it is essential to understand molecular mechanisms of drought stress responses in maize for drought tolerance improvement.The root plays a critical role in plants sensing water deficit.In the present study,two maize inbred lines,H082183,a drought-tolerant line,and Lv28,a drought-sensitive line,were grown in the field and treated with different water conditions(moderate drought,severe drought,and well-watered conditions)during vegetative stage.The transcriptomes of their roots were investigated by RNA sequencing.There were 1428 and 512 drought-responsive genes(DRGs)in Lv28,688 and 3363 DRGs in H082183 under moderate drought and severe drought,respectively.A total of 31 Gene Ontology(GO)terms were significantly over-represented in the two lines,13 of which were enriched only in the DRGs of H082183.Based on results of Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes(KEGG)enrichment analysis,"plant hormone signal transduction"and"starch and sucrose metabolism"were enriched in both of the two lines,while"phenylpropanoid biosynthesis"was only enriched in H082183.Further analysis revealed the different expression patterns of genes related to abscisic acid(ABA)signal pathway,trehalose biosynthesis,reactive oxygen scavenging,and transcription factors might contribute to drought tolerance in maize.Our results contribute to illustrating drought-responsive molecular mechanisms and providing gene resources for maize drought improvement.展开更多
Objective:The goal of this study was to get preliminary insight on the intra-tumor heterogeneity in colitisassociated cancer(CAC)and to reveal a potential evolutionary trajectory from ulcerative colitis(UC)to CAC at t...Objective:The goal of this study was to get preliminary insight on the intra-tumor heterogeneity in colitisassociated cancer(CAC)and to reveal a potential evolutionary trajectory from ulcerative colitis(UC)to CAC at the single-cell level.Methods:Fresh samples of tumor tissues and adjacent UC tissues from a CAC patient with pT3N1M0 stage cancer were examined by single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)and The Human Protein Atlas were used to confirm the different expression levels in normal and tumor tissues and to determine their relationships with patient prognosis.Results:Ultimately,4,777 single-cell transcriptomes(1,220 genes per cell)were examined,of which 2,250(47%)and 2,527(53%)originated from tumor and adjacent UC tissues,respectively.We defined the composition of cancer-associated stromal cells and identified six cell clusters,including myeloid,T and B cells,fibroblasts,endothelial and epithelial cells.Notable pathways and transcription factors involved in these cell clusters were analyzed and described.Moreover,the precise cellular composition and developmental trajectory from UC to UCassociated colon cancer were graphed,and it was predicted that CD74,CLCA1,and DPEP1 played a potential role in disease progression.Conclusions:scRNA-seq technology revealed intra-tumor cell heterogeneity in UC-associated colon cancer,and might provide a promising direction to identify novel potential therapeutic targets in the evolution from UC to CAC.展开更多
Tuberculosis(TB),is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tuberculosis),and presents with high morbidity and mortality.Alveolar macrophages play an important role in TB pathogenesis although the...Tuberculosis(TB),is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tuberculosis),and presents with high morbidity and mortality.Alveolar macrophages play an important role in TB pathogenesis although there is heterogeneity and functional plasticity.This study aimed to show the characteristics of alveolar macrophages from bronchioalveolar lavage fluid(BALF)in active TB patients.Single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)was performed on BALF cells from three patients with active TB and additional scRNA-seq data from three healthy adults were established as controls.Transcriptional profiles were analyzed and compared by differential gene expression and functional enrichment analysis.We applied pseudo-temporal trajectory analysis to investigate correlations and heterogeneity within alveolar macrophage subclusters.Alveolar macrophages from active TB patients at the single-cell resolution are described.We found that TB patients have higher cellular percentages in five macrophage subclusters.Alveolar macrophage subclusters with increased percentages were involved in inflammatory signaling pathways as well as the basic macrophage functions.The TB-increased alveolar macrophage subclusters might be derived from M1-like polarization state,before switching to an M2-like polarization state with the development of M.tuberculosis infection.Cell-cell communications of alveolar macrophages also increased and enhanced in active TB patients.Overall,our study demonstrated the characteristics of alveolar macrophages from BALF in active TB patients by using scRNA-seq.展开更多
Differentially expressed genes are thought to regulate the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinomas （OSCC）. The purpose of this study was to screen differentially expressed mRNAs in OSCC and matc...Differentially expressed genes are thought to regulate the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinomas （OSCC）. The purpose of this study was to screen differentially expressed mRNAs in OSCC and matched paraneoplastic normal tissues, and to explore the intrinsic mechanism of OSCC development and progres- sion. We obtained the differentially expressed mRNA expression profiles in 10 pairs of fresh-frozen OSCC tissue specimens and matched paraneoplastic normal tissue specimens by high-throughput RNA sequencing. By using Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes （KEGG） pathway enrichment analyses, the functional significance of the differentially expressed genes were analyzed. We identified 1,120 sig- nificantly up-regulated mRNAs and 178 significantly down-regulated mRNAs in OSCC, compared to normal tissue. The differentially expressed mRNAs were involved in 20 biological processes and 68 signal pathways. Compared to adjacent normal tissue, the expression of MAGEAll was up-regulated; TCHH was down-regulated. These find- ings were verified by real-time PCR. These differentially expressed mRNAs may function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in the development and progression of OSCC. This study provides novel insights into OSCC. However, further work is needed to determine if these differentially expressed mRNAs have potential roles as diagnostic bio- markers and candidate therapeutic targets for OSCC.展开更多
Gaining a better understanding of autoprotection against drug-induced liver injury(DILI)may provide new strategies for its prevention and therapy.However,little is known about the underlying mechanisms of this phenome...Gaining a better understanding of autoprotection against drug-induced liver injury(DILI)may provide new strategies for its prevention and therapy.However,little is known about the underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon.We used single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize the dynamics and functions of hepatic non-parenchymal cells(NPCs)in autoprotection against DILI,using acetaminophen(APAP)as a model drug.Autoprotection was modeled through pretreatment with a mildly hepatotoxic dose of APAP in mice,followed by a higher dose in a secondary challenge.NPC subsets and dynamic changes were identified in the APAP(hepatotoxicity-sensitive)and APAP-resistant(hepatotoxicity-resistant)groups.A chemokine(C-C motif)ligand 2^(+)endothelial cell subset almost disappeared in the APAP-resistant group,and an R-spondin 3^(+)endothelial cell subset promoted hepatocyte proliferation and played an important role in APAP autoprotection.Moreover,the dendritic cell subset DC-3 may protect the liver from APAP hepatotoxicity by inducing low reactivity and suppressing the autoimmune response and occurrence of inflammation.DC-3 cells also promoted angiogenesis through crosstalk with endothelial cells via vascular endothelial growth factor-associated ligand-receptor pairs and facilitated liver tissue repair in the APAP-resistant group.In addition,the natural killer cell subsets NK-3 and NK-4 and the Sca-1^(-)CD62L^(+)natural killer T cell subset may promote autoprotection through interferon-γ-dependent pathways.Furthermore,macrophage and neutrophil subpopulations with anti-inflammatory phenotypes promoted tolerance to APAP hepatotoxicity.Overall,this study reveals the dynamics of NPCs in the resistance to APAP hepatotoxicity and provides novel insights into the mechanism of autoprotection against DILI at a high resolution.展开更多
Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent stromal cells with great potential for clinical applications.However,little is known about their cell heterogeneity at a single-cell resolution,which severely impedes the de...Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent stromal cells with great potential for clinical applications.However,little is known about their cell heterogeneity at a single-cell resolution,which severely impedes the development of MSC therapy.In this review,we focus on advances in the identification of novel surface markers and functional subpopulations of MSCs made by single-cell RNA sequencing and discuss their participation in the pathophysiology of stem cells and related diseases.The challenges and future directions of single-cell RNA sequencing in MSCs are also addressed in this review.展开更多
Objective:NK cells play crucial roles in the immune defense mechanisms against viral infections and transformed cells.However,the developmental progression,transcriptomic landscape,and functional subtypes of liver NK ...Objective:NK cells play crucial roles in the immune defense mechanisms against viral infections and transformed cells.However,the developmental progression,transcriptomic landscape,and functional subtypes of liver NK cells are not well defined.Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)accounts for approximately 80%of primary liver cancer worldwide,yet the biological characteristics of NK cells in the HCC environment are unclear.Therefore,we aimed to determine these cells’roles in tumorigenesis and prognosis.Methods:We compared the single-cell RNA sequencing profiles of NK cells purified from blood(n=1),healthy liver tissues(n=3),HCC tumor tissues(n=4),and peritumor liver tissues(n=1)to identify NK cell subsets.Furthermore,we performed bioinformatics analysis by using The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)data to identify prognostic biomarkers simultaneously overexpressed in the blood and tumor tissues of patients with HCC.Results:Transcriptomic analysis revealed 5 NK cell subsets(L1-NK-CD56bright,L2-NK-CD56dim,L3-NK-HLA,L4-LrNK-FCGR3A,and L5-LrNK-XCL1)in the healthy liver tissues.However,the transitional L3 subset and the CXCR6+CD16+L4 subset with strong anti-tumor activity were absent in the HCC and peritumor liver tissues.Furthermore,4 common prognosis-associated genes(RHOB,TALDO1,HLA-DPA1,and TKT)were significantly overexpressed in the paired tumor tissue and blood.Conclusions:Our study revealed 5 specific subsets of NK cells in healthy human liver tissues.However,only 3 of the 5 NK cell subsets were present in HCC and peritumor tissues.The cytotoxic NK cell subsets were absent in HCC tissues.Furthermore,we identified 4 potential non-invasive prognostic biomarkers in patients with HCC.展开更多
基金supported by the National Science Foundation of China,Nos.82325031(to FX),82030059(to YC),82102290(to YG),U23A20485(to YC)Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project,No.2023ZD0505504(to FX),2023ZD0505500(to YC)the Key R&D Program of Shandong Province,No.2022ZLGX03(to YC).
文摘Global brain ischemia and neurological deficit are consequences of cardiac arrest that lead to high mortality.Despite advancements in resuscitation science,our limited understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying post-cardiac arrest brain injury have hindered the development of effective neuroprotective strategies.Previous studies primarily focused on neuronal death,potentially overlooking the contributions of non-neuronal cells and intercellular communication to the pathophysiology of cardiac arrest-induced brain injury.To address these gaps,we hypothesized that single-cell transcriptomic analysis could uncover previously unidentified cellular subpopulations,altered cell communication networks,and novel molecular mechanisms involved in post-cardiac arrest brain injury.In this study,we performed a single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the hippocampus from pigs with ventricular fibrillation-induced cardiac arrest at 6 and 24 hours following the return of spontaneous circulation,and from sham control pigs.Sequencing results revealed changes in the proportions of different cell types,suggesting post-arrest disruption in the blood-brain barrier and infiltration of neutrophils.These results were validated through western blotting,quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction,and immunofluorescence staining.We also identified and validated a unique subcluster of activated microglia with high expression of S100A8,which increased over time following cardiac arrest.This subcluster simultaneously exhibited significant M1/M2 polarization and expressed key functional genes related to chemokines and interleukins.Additionally,we revealed the post-cardiac arrest dysfunction of oligodendrocytes and the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells into oligodendrocytes.Cell communication analysis identified enhanced post-cardiac arrest communication between neutrophils and microglia that was mediated by neutrophil-derived resistin,driving pro-inflammatory microglial polarization.Our findings provide a comprehensive single-cell map of the post-cardiac arrest hippocampus,offering potential novel targets for neuroprotection and repair following cardiac arrest.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China,No.2023YFE0209500(to ZQ)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,China,Nos.2023A1515010772(to YL),2025A1515011720(to YL)+1 种基金the Medical Science and Technology Research Foundation of Guangdong Province,No.A2024120(to YL)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.U22A20371(to ZQ).
文摘The triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease(3×Tg-AD)is a widely used model that exhibits region-dependent patterns of progressive amyloid-βand tau pathology.Although structural brain abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging have been observed in 3×Tg-AD mice at later disease stages(>12 months)and as early as 2 months,few studies have investigated changes in these mice during the stage with extensive amyloid-βdeposition and onset of tau pathology(around 9 months).This study aimed to assess brain morphometry and microstructure alterations in 9 month-old 3×Tg-AD mice to better understand the neural mechanisms underlying these specific pathological features.Voxel-based analyses were employed on T2-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging to identify differences between 3×Tg-AD and control mice.Compared with controls,3×Tg-AD mice exhibited lower gray matter volume in several regions including both hippocampal regions,the right thalamus,the left caudoputamen,and the cortex.Reduced white matter volume was observed in fiber tracts including the corpus callosum,internal capsule,stria terminalis,and olfactory tract.Whole-brain diffusion tensor imaging analysis revealed a significant decrease in fractional anisotropy and an increase in both radial and mean diffusivity within the left dentate gyrus of the hippocampal region and right striatum-like amygdala nuclei,with no significant difference in axial diffusivity.Correlation analyses demonstrated significant associations between behavioral performance measures,with both gray and white matter volumes within regions showing significant morphometric differences.Notably,behavioral performance also exhibited significant correlations with diffusion tensor imaging measures particularly within the left dentate gyrus of the hippocampal region and right striatum-like amygdala nuclei.Immunofluorescence analysis confirmed increased amyloid-βplaques and p-Tau protein expression in the hippocampal regions of 3×Tg-AD mice,which corroborated the magnetic resonance imaging findings.Transcriptome analysis in hippocampus tissue identified 1389 differentially expressed genes.Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses revealed that numerous differentially expressed genes were enriched in biological processes relevant to synapse structure,cognition,learning,and memory,with particular emphasis on Wnt and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways.Collectively,these findings suggest that intricate anatomical and microstructural alterations occur in 3×Tg-AD model mice at the onset of pathology around 9 months,potentially driven by gene expression alterations.Moreover,our results support the potential utility of brain volume and diffusion metrics as biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease pathology,which could have significant implications for clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease patients.
文摘Objective Adaptive immune responses play a critical role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS).In this study,we investigated the functional mechanisms of T cell subtypes and assessed the causal links between CD4+cytotoxic T cell-related genes and ALS risk.Methods Single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)of peripheral blood mononuclear cells(PBMCs)from patients with ALS and healthy controls(HC)was used to identify differentially expressed genes(DEGs)in CD4+cytotoxic T cells.Comprehensive analyses of CD4+cytotoxic T cells,including pseudotemporal trajectory,intercellular communication,and metabolic pathway analysis,were performed.Mendelian randomization(MR)analysis evaluated the causal effects of DEGs on ALS risk,with validation using independent genome-wide association study(GWAS)data.Expression patterns of the causal genes were further verified using scRNA-seq,bulk-seq,and clinical samples.Results CD4+cytotoxic T cells were significantly expanded in patients with ALS.The upregulated genes S100A6,SERPINB6,SMAD7,and TPST2 were positively correlated with ALS susceptibility,whereas DIP2A showed a protective association.Conclusion S100A6,SERPINB6,SMAD7,TPST2,and DIP2A were identified as causal genes and potential therapeutic targets in ALS,implicating CD4+cytotoxic T cells in the disease mechanisms.Further studies targeting these genes and neuroinflammatory pathways are warranted.
基金Supported by National Key R&D Program of China:Clinical Evaluation Research on Intervention Technologies for Abdominal Obesitythe Role of Gut Microbiota in the Effects of Combined Acupuncture and Medication on Abdominal Obesity:an Exploration with 16S rRNA Technology(Project Code:2019YFC1710102)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate Acupuncture-herb therapy modulates gut microbiota in abdominal obesity.METHODS:A randomized controlled trial was designed in accordance with standard protocols.Abdominally obese subjects were randomized into four groups:A2(Control):double placebo,A1(Needle):press needle+placebo herb,A3(herb):herbal medicine(Huatan Lishi Fang化痰利湿方)+placebo needle,A4(Combination):press needle+herbal medicine.After 12 weeks of treatment,groups were relabeled B1-B4.Weight,waist circumference,and body mass index were measured monthly.Gut microbiota was analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing for diversity and abundance.RESULTS:Combined needle-herb therapy significantly reduced waist circumference(P<0.05).All treatments altered gut microbiota composition.The combination group showed significant changes in diversity(Chao1,Shannon,Simpson;P<0.05).Needle therapy increased Bacteroidia;herbs reduced Lachnospiraceae and Megamonas.All results were significant(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Combined needle-herb treatment modulated 25 key gut flora across multiple taxonomic levels in abdominal obesity.It reduced Firmicutes and Bacteroidota.Bacteroidota,Actinobacteriota,and Prevotellaceae may suppress obesity,whereas Proteobacteria,Lachnospiraceae,and Megamonas may promote it.The combination specifically altered Bacteroidaceae,Lachnospiraceae,Bacteroidia,and Megamonas.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82071312).
文摘AIM:To explore the immune cell infiltration and molecular mechanisms of retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury(RIRI)to identify potential therapeutic targets.METHODS:In the bulk RNA-seq analysis,This study performed differential gene expression analysis,weighted gene co-expression network analysis,and protein-protein interaction network analysis to identify hub genes.QuanTIseq was used to determine the composition of infiltrating immune cells.Following the identification of hub genes,single-cell RNA-seq analysis was employed to pinpoint the specific immune cell types expressing these hub genes.Cell-cell communication analysis to explore signaling pathways and interactions between immune cells was further performed.Finally,the expression of these key immune regulators in vivo using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)was validated.RESULTS:Bulk RNA-seq analysis identified Stat2,Irf7,Irgm1,Igtp,Parp9,Irgm2,Nlrc5,and Tap1 as hub genes,with strong correlations to immune cell infiltration.Single-cell RNA-seq analysis further revealed six immune cell clusters,showing Irf7 predominantly in microglia and Tap1 in dendritic cells(DCs).And cell-cell communication analysis showed that microglia and DCs play central roles in coordinating immune activity.qRT-PCR validated the upregulation of these genes.CONCLUSION:In the acute phase of RIRI,Irf7 and Tap1 may be the potential therapeutic targets to reduce inflammation and promote neurological function recovery.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82301403(to DZ)。
文摘Glial cells play crucial roles in regulating physiological and pathological functions,including sensation,the response to infection and acute injury,and chronic neurodegenerative disorders.Glial cells include astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system,and satellite glial cells and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.Despite the greater understanding of glial cell types and functional heterogeneity achieved through single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing in animal models,few studies have investigated the transcriptomic profiles of glial cells in the human spinal cord.Here,we used high-throughput single-nucleus RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to map the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes in the human spinal cord.To explore the conservation and divergence across species,we compared these findings with those from mice.In the human spinal cord,astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes were each divided into six distinct transcriptomic subclusters.In the mouse spinal cord,astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes were divided into five,four,and five distinct transcriptomic subclusters,respectively.The comparative results revealed substantial heterogeneity in all glial cell types between humans and mice.Additionally,we detected sex differences in gene expression in human spinal cord glial cells.Specifically,in all astrocyte subtypes,the levels of NEAT1 and CHI3L1 were higher in males than in females,whereas the levels of CST3 were lower in males than in females.In all microglial subtypes,all differentially expressed genes were located on the sex chromosomes.In addition to sex-specific gene differences,the levels of MT-ND4,MT2A,MT-ATP6,MT-CO3,MT-ND2,MT-ND3,and MT-CO_(2) in all spinal cord oligodendrocyte subtypes were higher in females than in males.Collectively,the present dataset extensively characterizes glial cell heterogeneity and offers a valuable resource for exploring the cellular basis of spinal cordrelated illnesses,including chronic pain,amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,and multiple sclerosis.
基金Supported by Scientific Research Project of Putian University,No.2022059Special Project for Outstanding Young Talents of Putian University,No.2024072Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province,No.2023J01160.
文摘Gastric cancer(GC)remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality globally.Although significant progress has been made in treatment options,the survival rates for GC patients continue to be low.This is primarily attributed to the intricate and insufficiently understood mechanisms of disease progression,as well as the considerable challenges associated with tumor hetero-geneity.The recent study by Tang et al provides a detailed single-cell RNA se-quencing analysis of GC across different stages,revealing dynamic changes in the tumor microenvironment and key immune responses.We aim to offer a compre-hensive interpretation of the study’s findings and propose several innovative directions for future academic research in gastric cancer.These include exploring advanced multi-omics approaches,leveraging spatial transcriptomics,integrating artificial intelligence for clinical applications,and developing novel immuno-therapy strategies.We further emphasize the importance of personalized medi-cine,early detection,and novel drug discovery techniques in improving GC treatment outcomes.
基金supported by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Jiangxi Province,China (JXARS-09)Science and Technology Program of Guangdong Province,China (2020B1212060060)。
文摘Pigeons and certain other avian species produce a milklike secretion in their crop sacs to nourish offspring,yet the detailed processes involved are not fully elucidated.This study investigated the crop sacs of 225-day-old unpaired non-lactating male pigeons(MN)and males initiating lactation on the first day after incubation(ML).Using RNA sequencing,ribosomeprofiling,andsingle-cell transcriptome sequencing(scRNA-seq),we identified a significant up-regulation of genes associated with ribosome assembly and protein synthesis in ML compared to MN.Results from scRNA-seq analysis identified 12distinct cell types and 22 clusters,with secretory epithelial cells(SECs)exhibiting marked expression of plasma cell markers,including IGLL1 and MZB1.RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization(RNA FISH)and IgY quantification confirmed the critical role of SECs in producing endogenous IgY during lactation.We propose that fibroblast-derived BAFF signals activate SECs,mimicking B cell transformation and enhancing protein production through the unfolded protein response(UPR).These findings shed light on the cellular dynamics of pigeon milk production and contribute to a broader understanding of avian biology.
基金National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFA1103202)National Natural Science Foundation of China(82272507,32270887,and 32200654)+6 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing(CSTB2023NSCQ-ZDJO008)Postdoctoral Innovative Talent Support Program(BX20220397)Independent Research Project of State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning(SFLKF202201)Project for Enhancing Innovation of Army Medical University(2023X1839)Talent Innovation Training Program at the Army Medical Center(ZXZYTSYS09)General Hospital of Western Theater Command Research Project(2021-XZYG-B10)University Grants Committee,Research Grants Council of Hong Kong,China(14113723,N_CUHK472/22,C7030-18G,T13-402/17-N,and AoE/M-402/20)。
文摘Orthopedic conditions have emerged as global health concerns,impacting approximately 1.7 billion individuals worldwide.However,the limited understanding of the underlying pathological processes at the cellular and molecular level has hindered the development of comprehensive treatment options for these disorders.The advent of single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)technology has revolutionized biomedical research by enabling detailed examination of cellular and molecular diversity.Nevertheless,investigating mechanisms at the single-cell level in highly mineralized skeletal tissue poses technical challenges.In this comprehensive review,we present a streamlined approach to obtaining high-quality single cells from skeletal tissue and provide an overview of existing scRNA-seq technologies employed in skeletal studies along with practical bioinformatic analysis pipelines.By utilizing these methodologies,crucial insights into the developmental dynamics,maintenance of homeostasis,and pathological processes involved in spine,joint,bone,muscle,and tendon disorders have been uncovered.Specifically focusing on the joint diseases of degenerative disc disease,osteoarthritis,and rheumatoid arthritis using scRNA-seq has provided novel insights and a more nuanced comprehension.These findings have paved the way for discovering novel therapeutic targets that offer potential benefits to patients suffering from diverse skeletal disorders.
文摘The study of Tang et al investigated the distribution and dynamic changes of cell populations in the tumor microenvironment of gastric cancer(GC)patients using single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).This comprehensive analysis highlights key interactions within the tumor microenvironment across different GC stages.Discussing applications of scRNA-seq data in clinical settings could pave the way for developing promising and personalized therapeutic strategies for GC patients.Therefore,further exploration of selecting anticancer drug candidates through gene screening derived from scRNA-seq will provide deeper insights into GC care.
文摘Head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma(HNCSCC)remains underexplored compared to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma,particularly in relation to human papillomavirus(HPV)and molecular markers such as p16 and p53.While p16 is a well-established surrogate for HPV in oropharyngeal cancer,our review highlights its unreliable role in HNCSCC,where positivity is instead associated with recurrence and metastasis.Similarly,p53 illustrates a dual role-wild-type as a genomic safeguard,mutated as an oncogenic driver-complicating prognostication.Methodological considerations,including the limitations of immunohistochemistry for HPV detection,underscore the need for multi-method and molecular validation in future studies.Ultraviolet radiation is posited as a key modifier of p16 function,decoupling expression from tumor suppression.To contextualize these findings,we draw parallels to glioblastoma(GBM),where subclonal evolution,p53 dysfunction,and intratumoral heterogeneity drive relapse despite aggressive multimodal therapies.GBM exemplifies how bulk-level biomarker generalizations often obscure dynamic cellular ecosystems,reinforcing the necessity of single-cell and spatial approaches.Multi-omics integration-encompassing genome,transcriptome,proteome,and tumor microenvironment mapping-coupled with single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics,offers a path forward for resolving subclonal dynamics in both HNCSCC and GBM.These technologies provide the resolution needed to track tumor-immunestromal co-evolution,identify therapy-resistant clones,and anticipate recurrence.We argue for a N-of-1,patient-and cell-centric paradigm that reframes biomarkers not as static surrogates but as dynamic readouts of cancer evolution across time and tissue contexts.Conceptually,we propose kinetic and microenvironmental frameworks(e.g.,“load-and-lock”barriers;dormancy and immunesynapse stabilization)as hypothesis-generating avenues to stall clonal handoffs and improve outcome prediction.Together,these perspectives argue for revised biomarker frameworks in HNCSCC and ethically inclusive,mechanism-anchored studies that bridge discovery with individualized care.By bridging insights from HNCSCC with the lessons of GBM,this review underscores the need for ethically inclusive,mechanistically informed frameworks that integrate subclonal evolution,biomarker re-interpretation,and precision-personalized hybrid models.Such an approach will be essential for advancing from one-size-fits-all strategies to individualized lifetime cancer care.
基金Supported by the Scientific Research Topic of Jiangsu Provincial Health Care Commission,No.M2021017the High-level Talent Research Project of the Second Hospital of Nanjing,No.0313504the Nanjing Second Hospital Academic Leader Program,No.0313506.
文摘BACKGROUND Understanding the status and function of tumor-infiltrating immune cells is essential for improving immunotherapeutic effects and predicting the clinical response in human patients with carcinoma.However,little is known about tumor-infiltrating immune cells,and the corresponding research results in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)are limited.AIM To investigate potential biomarker genes that are important for the development of HCC and to understand how immune cell subsets react throughout this process.METHODS Using single-cell RNA sequencing and T-cell receptor sequencing,the heterogeneity and potential functions of immune cell subpopulations from HCC tissue and normal tissue adjacent to carcinoma,as well as their possible interactions,were analyzed.RESULTS Eight T-cell clusters from patients were analyzed and identified using bioinformatics,including six typical major Tcell clusters and two newly identified T-cell clusters,among which Fc epsilon receptor 1G+T cells were characterized by the upregulation of Fc epsilon receptor 1G,tyrosine kinase binding protein,and T cell receptor delta constant,whereas metallothionein 1E+T cells proliferated significantly in tumors.Differentially expressed genes,such as regulator of cell cycle,cysteine and serine rich nuclear protein 1,SMAD7 and metallothionein 1E,were identified as significantly upregulated in tumors and have potential as biomarkers.In association with T-cell receptor analysis,we inferred the clonal expansion characteristics of each T-cell cluster in HCC patients.CONCLUSION We identified lymphocyte subpopulations and potential biomarker genes critical for HCC development and revealed the clonal amplification of infiltrating T cells.These data provide valuable resources for understanding the response of immune cell subsets in HCC.
基金supported by the Zhejiang Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project(GZY-ZJKJ-24076)the High-level Talents Special Support Program of Zhejiang Province(2024-KYY-GXJS-0026)+3 种基金the‘Pioneer’Research and Development Program of Zhejiang(2023C03004)the Transverse Research Project of Zhejiang University(2023-KYY-A070350007)the Theme-base Research Scheme,Research Grants Committee(T13-602/21-N)the Starlit South Lake Leading Elite Program(2023A303005).
文摘Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy(HIE),resulting from perinatal asphyxia-induced hypoxic-ischemic brain damage(HIBD),is a severe neurological disorder that impairs neurodevelopment,and no definitive therapies are available.The polyphenolic natural compound salvianolic acid C(SAC)exhibits antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and antiapoptotic properties.In this study,we evaluated the efficacy of SAC in treating HIE via animal and human brain organoid experiments.Human brain organoids served as a translational platform for assessing natural product efficacy and clinical effect prediction.Rat brain tissues were harvested at two time points(24 h and 7 d after HIBD and SAC administration)for single-nucleus RNA sequencing.In vitro and in vivo experiments,including microarrays and gene silencing,were employed to confirm the sequencing findings.Our findings demonstrated that during the acute phase of HIBD,SAC suppressed signal transducer and activator of transcription 3+(Stat3+)astrocyte-driven acute neuroinflammation,decreased inflammatory factor release,and maintained glial-immune homeostasis.During the subacute phase,SAC promoted oligodendrocyte differentiation and facilitated crosstalk between anti-inflammatory microglia and myelinating oligodendrocytes,establishing a regenerative microenvironment and enhancing neuregulin 3(NRG3)-receptor tyrosine-protein kinase erbB-4(ErbB4)signaling axis activity.These coordinated mechanisms highlight the dual capacity of SAC in mitigating early injury and driving structural repair in the later stages.This study revealed the pathophysiology of HIE and the multitarget neuroprotective effects of SAC against this disorder at single-cell resolution,advancing the mechanistic foundations for SAC-based therapies in neonatal brain injury.
基金supported by the Sci-Tech Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (Y2016PT10)
文摘Drought is one of the most important abiotic stresses affecting maize growth and development and therefore resulting in yield loss.Thus it is essential to understand molecular mechanisms of drought stress responses in maize for drought tolerance improvement.The root plays a critical role in plants sensing water deficit.In the present study,two maize inbred lines,H082183,a drought-tolerant line,and Lv28,a drought-sensitive line,were grown in the field and treated with different water conditions(moderate drought,severe drought,and well-watered conditions)during vegetative stage.The transcriptomes of their roots were investigated by RNA sequencing.There were 1428 and 512 drought-responsive genes(DRGs)in Lv28,688 and 3363 DRGs in H082183 under moderate drought and severe drought,respectively.A total of 31 Gene Ontology(GO)terms were significantly over-represented in the two lines,13 of which were enriched only in the DRGs of H082183.Based on results of Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes(KEGG)enrichment analysis,"plant hormone signal transduction"and"starch and sucrose metabolism"were enriched in both of the two lines,while"phenylpropanoid biosynthesis"was only enriched in H082183.Further analysis revealed the different expression patterns of genes related to abscisic acid(ABA)signal pathway,trehalose biosynthesis,reactive oxygen scavenging,and transcription factors might contribute to drought tolerance in maize.Our results contribute to illustrating drought-responsive molecular mechanisms and providing gene resources for maize drought improvement.
基金supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2017YFC1308800)Industry-University-Research Innovation Fund in Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China(No.2018A01013)。
文摘Objective:The goal of this study was to get preliminary insight on the intra-tumor heterogeneity in colitisassociated cancer(CAC)and to reveal a potential evolutionary trajectory from ulcerative colitis(UC)to CAC at the single-cell level.Methods:Fresh samples of tumor tissues and adjacent UC tissues from a CAC patient with pT3N1M0 stage cancer were examined by single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq).Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)and The Human Protein Atlas were used to confirm the different expression levels in normal and tumor tissues and to determine their relationships with patient prognosis.Results:Ultimately,4,777 single-cell transcriptomes(1,220 genes per cell)were examined,of which 2,250(47%)and 2,527(53%)originated from tumor and adjacent UC tissues,respectively.We defined the composition of cancer-associated stromal cells and identified six cell clusters,including myeloid,T and B cells,fibroblasts,endothelial and epithelial cells.Notable pathways and transcription factors involved in these cell clusters were analyzed and described.Moreover,the precise cellular composition and developmental trajectory from UC to UCassociated colon cancer were graphed,and it was predicted that CD74,CLCA1,and DPEP1 played a potential role in disease progression.Conclusions:scRNA-seq technology revealed intra-tumor cell heterogeneity in UC-associated colon cancer,and might provide a promising direction to identify novel potential therapeutic targets in the evolution from UC to CAC.
基金funded by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 81800090)the Key Project of National Science & Technology for Infectious Diseases of China (Grant No. 2018ZX10722301-002)
文摘Tuberculosis(TB),is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tuberculosis),and presents with high morbidity and mortality.Alveolar macrophages play an important role in TB pathogenesis although there is heterogeneity and functional plasticity.This study aimed to show the characteristics of alveolar macrophages from bronchioalveolar lavage fluid(BALF)in active TB patients.Single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)was performed on BALF cells from three patients with active TB and additional scRNA-seq data from three healthy adults were established as controls.Transcriptional profiles were analyzed and compared by differential gene expression and functional enrichment analysis.We applied pseudo-temporal trajectory analysis to investigate correlations and heterogeneity within alveolar macrophage subclusters.Alveolar macrophages from active TB patients at the single-cell resolution are described.We found that TB patients have higher cellular percentages in five macrophage subclusters.Alveolar macrophage subclusters with increased percentages were involved in inflammatory signaling pathways as well as the basic macrophage functions.The TB-increased alveolar macrophage subclusters might be derived from M1-like polarization state,before switching to an M2-like polarization state with the development of M.tuberculosis infection.Cell-cell communications of alveolar macrophages also increased and enhanced in active TB patients.Overall,our study demonstrated the characteristics of alveolar macrophages from BALF in active TB patients by using scRNA-seq.
基金supported by a project funded by the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions(PAPD,2014-37)
文摘Differentially expressed genes are thought to regulate the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinomas （OSCC）. The purpose of this study was to screen differentially expressed mRNAs in OSCC and matched paraneoplastic normal tissues, and to explore the intrinsic mechanism of OSCC development and progres- sion. We obtained the differentially expressed mRNA expression profiles in 10 pairs of fresh-frozen OSCC tissue specimens and matched paraneoplastic normal tissue specimens by high-throughput RNA sequencing. By using Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes （KEGG） pathway enrichment analyses, the functional significance of the differentially expressed genes were analyzed. We identified 1,120 sig- nificantly up-regulated mRNAs and 178 significantly down-regulated mRNAs in OSCC, compared to normal tissue. The differentially expressed mRNAs were involved in 20 biological processes and 68 signal pathways. Compared to adjacent normal tissue, the expression of MAGEAll was up-regulated; TCHH was down-regulated. These find- ings were verified by real-time PCR. These differentially expressed mRNAs may function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in the development and progression of OSCC. This study provides novel insights into OSCC. However, further work is needed to determine if these differentially expressed mRNAs have potential roles as diagnostic bio- markers and candidate therapeutic targets for OSCC.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.:81870426)the Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(Grant No.:ZYYCXTD-D-202002)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant No.:226-2023-00059),and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities.
文摘Gaining a better understanding of autoprotection against drug-induced liver injury(DILI)may provide new strategies for its prevention and therapy.However,little is known about the underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon.We used single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize the dynamics and functions of hepatic non-parenchymal cells(NPCs)in autoprotection against DILI,using acetaminophen(APAP)as a model drug.Autoprotection was modeled through pretreatment with a mildly hepatotoxic dose of APAP in mice,followed by a higher dose in a secondary challenge.NPC subsets and dynamic changes were identified in the APAP(hepatotoxicity-sensitive)and APAP-resistant(hepatotoxicity-resistant)groups.A chemokine(C-C motif)ligand 2^(+)endothelial cell subset almost disappeared in the APAP-resistant group,and an R-spondin 3^(+)endothelial cell subset promoted hepatocyte proliferation and played an important role in APAP autoprotection.Moreover,the dendritic cell subset DC-3 may protect the liver from APAP hepatotoxicity by inducing low reactivity and suppressing the autoimmune response and occurrence of inflammation.DC-3 cells also promoted angiogenesis through crosstalk with endothelial cells via vascular endothelial growth factor-associated ligand-receptor pairs and facilitated liver tissue repair in the APAP-resistant group.In addition,the natural killer cell subsets NK-3 and NK-4 and the Sca-1^(-)CD62L^(+)natural killer T cell subset may promote autoprotection through interferon-γ-dependent pathways.Furthermore,macrophage and neutrophil subpopulations with anti-inflammatory phenotypes promoted tolerance to APAP hepatotoxicity.Overall,this study reveals the dynamics of NPCs in the resistance to APAP hepatotoxicity and provides novel insights into the mechanism of autoprotection against DILI at a high resolution.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81871750 and No.81971518the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.19ykpy01 and No.20ykpy04the Key Laboratory of Basic Research and Clinical Translation of Ankylosing Spondylitis,No.ZDSYS20190902092851024.
文摘Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent stromal cells with great potential for clinical applications.However,little is known about their cell heterogeneity at a single-cell resolution,which severely impedes the development of MSC therapy.In this review,we focus on advances in the identification of novel surface markers and functional subpopulations of MSCs made by single-cell RNA sequencing and discuss their participation in the pathophysiology of stem cells and related diseases.The challenges and future directions of single-cell RNA sequencing in MSCs are also addressed in this review.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant Nos.2021YFC2300601 and 2019YFA0508502/3)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.81972679 and 8202290021)+1 种基金Anhui Provincial Natural Science Foundation(Grant Nos.2008085J35 and 2008085MH252)USTC Research Funds of the Double First-Class Initiative(Grant No.YD3520002002).
文摘Objective:NK cells play crucial roles in the immune defense mechanisms against viral infections and transformed cells.However,the developmental progression,transcriptomic landscape,and functional subtypes of liver NK cells are not well defined.Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)accounts for approximately 80%of primary liver cancer worldwide,yet the biological characteristics of NK cells in the HCC environment are unclear.Therefore,we aimed to determine these cells’roles in tumorigenesis and prognosis.Methods:We compared the single-cell RNA sequencing profiles of NK cells purified from blood(n=1),healthy liver tissues(n=3),HCC tumor tissues(n=4),and peritumor liver tissues(n=1)to identify NK cell subsets.Furthermore,we performed bioinformatics analysis by using The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)data to identify prognostic biomarkers simultaneously overexpressed in the blood and tumor tissues of patients with HCC.Results:Transcriptomic analysis revealed 5 NK cell subsets(L1-NK-CD56bright,L2-NK-CD56dim,L3-NK-HLA,L4-LrNK-FCGR3A,and L5-LrNK-XCL1)in the healthy liver tissues.However,the transitional L3 subset and the CXCR6+CD16+L4 subset with strong anti-tumor activity were absent in the HCC and peritumor liver tissues.Furthermore,4 common prognosis-associated genes(RHOB,TALDO1,HLA-DPA1,and TKT)were significantly overexpressed in the paired tumor tissue and blood.Conclusions:Our study revealed 5 specific subsets of NK cells in healthy human liver tissues.However,only 3 of the 5 NK cell subsets were present in HCC and peritumor tissues.The cytotoxic NK cell subsets were absent in HCC tissues.Furthermore,we identified 4 potential non-invasive prognostic biomarkers in patients with HCC.
