Phytomelatonin,an emerging plant hormone,plays vital roles in plant growth,development,and stress adaptation(Arnao et al.,2022;Ullah et al.,2024).It acts both as a direct antioxidant and a signaling molecule,engaging ...Phytomelatonin,an emerging plant hormone,plays vital roles in plant growth,development,and stress adaptation(Arnao et al.,2022;Ullah et al.,2024).It acts both as a direct antioxidant and a signaling molecule,engaging complex networks and interacting with other phytohormones(Liu et al.,2022;Khan et al.,2023).Although phytomelatonin receptors(PMTRs)have been identified in many plants(Wei et al.,2018;Wang et al.,2022;Liu et al.,2025),the downstream signaling mechanisms,particularly receptor-mediated protein modifications and transcriptional regulation,remain poorly characterized.展开更多
Tooth morphogenesis is orchestrated by a complex interplay of signaling pathways and transcription factors that control cell proliferation,apoptosis,and differentiation,with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway playin...Tooth morphogenesis is orchestrated by a complex interplay of signaling pathways and transcription factors that control cell proliferation,apoptosis,and differentiation,with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway playing a pivotal role.However,the comprehensive regulatory mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signaling remain largely unclear.Smad7,a key antagonist of the TGF-βsuperfamily,is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and ensuring proper cellular function.Our previous study has demonstrated that Smad7 knockout in mice leads to impaired proliferative property of tooth germ cells,resulting in small molars.Here,we identified SMAD7 expression in human dental papilla and dental pulp,colocalized with β-CATENIN and cell proliferationrelated proteins.RNA sequencing analysis revealed a significant reduction in Wnt signaling activity in Smad7-deficient mouse tooth germs.Using lentivirus transfection,we established SMAD7-knockdown human dental papilla stem cells,which manifested remarkably blunt proliferation rate,along with diminished Wnt signaling activity.In vivo transplantation investigations further revealed the indispensable role of SMAD7 in dentin formation.Mechanistically,we revealed that β-CATENIN interacts with P-SMAD2/3 and SMAD7 through co-immunoprecipitation and yeast two-hybrid assays.Inhibition of TGF-β pathway or disruption of SMAD7/β-CATENIN transcription factor complex formation potently impacted Wnt/β-catenin activities,indicating both direct and indirect regulatory mechanisms.These findings highlight the critical role of SMAD7 in the proliferation and diffe rentiation of human dental stem cells,which could contribute to dental tissue regeneration and engineering.展开更多
Muscle atrophy can be induced by high doses or prolonged use of glucocorticoids.Kaempferol(Kae)is a naturally occurring flavonoid with a variety of biological activities and the effect of Kae on dexamethasone(Dex)indu...Muscle atrophy can be induced by high doses or prolonged use of glucocorticoids.Kaempferol(Kae)is a naturally occurring flavonoid with a variety of biological activities and the effect of Kae on dexamethasone(Dex)induced muscle atrophy in animals has not been elucidated.To explore this issue,the present experiments used a computationally assisted drug design scheme combining network pharmacology,molecular docking and in vivo experiments to investigate the mechanism of Kae against muscle atrophy.Network pharmacological analyses revealed 275 potential targets for Kae and 12294 potential targets for muscle atrophy,with a total of 228 crosstargets for Kae and muscle atrophy.GO and KEGG analyses were performed based on the protein-protein interaction(PPI)network of muscle atrophy and Kae component targets.The GO results showed that the biological processes were mainly related to the metabolic process of reactive oxygen species,and the response to oxidative stress;the cellular components were mainly focused on membrane microdomains,and membrane regions;the molecular functions mainly worked on phosphatase binding;and the KEGG pathway enrichment analyses identified the pathways of interaction between Kae and muscle atrophy.Finally,as verified by in vivo experiments,Kae may reduce the onset of muscle atrophy by activating the PI3K/AKT/m TOR/signalling pathway,inhibiting Foxo1/Foxo3 activity,and inhibiting downstream production of the ubiquitination 3 ligases Atrogin1 and Mu RF1;Kae also promotes the expression of NRF2/HO-1/KEAP1 signalling pathway,enhances muscle antioxidant capacity,inhibits the release of COX-2 and TNF-αinflammatory factors,and reduces the damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammatory factors to muscles.Therefore,there may be a synergistic effect of PI3K/AKT/m TOR and NRF2/HO-1/KEAP1 in Kae working together to prevent muscle atrophy.The binding energy and stability of Kae to potential targets were examined by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations,implying that Kae could be used for the prevention and treatment of muscle atrophy in patients.展开更多
Control signaling is mandatory for the operation and management of all types of communication networks,including the Third Generation Partnership Project(3GPP)mobile broadband networks.However,they consume important a...Control signaling is mandatory for the operation and management of all types of communication networks,including the Third Generation Partnership Project(3GPP)mobile broadband networks.However,they consume important and scarce network resources such as bandwidth and processing power.There have been several reports of these control signaling turning into signaling storms halting network operations and causing the respective Telecom companies big financial losses.This paper draws its motivation from such real network disaster incidents attributed to signaling storms.In this paper,we present a thorough survey of the causes,of the signaling storm problems in 3GPP-based mobile broadband networks and discuss in detail their possible solutions and countermeasures.We provide relevant analytical models to help quantify the effect of the potential causes and benefits of their corresponding solutions.Another important contribution of this paper is the comparison of the possible causes and solutions/countermeasures,concerning their effect on several important network aspects such as architecture,additional signaling,fidelity,etc.,in the form of a table.This paper presents an update and an extension of our earlier conference publication.To our knowledge,no similar survey study exists on the subject.展开更多
The nervous system function requires a precise but plastic neural architecture.The neuronal shape dictates how neurons interact with each other and with other cells,being the morphology of dendrites and axons the cent...The nervous system function requires a precise but plastic neural architecture.The neuronal shape dictates how neurons interact with each other and with other cells,being the morphology of dendrites and axons the central determinant of the functional properties of neurons and neural circuits.The topological and structural morphology of axons and dendrites defines and determines how synapses are conformed.The morphological diversity of axon and dendrite arborization governs the neuron’s inputs,synaptic integration,neuronal computation,signal transmission,and network circuitry,hence defining the particular connectivity and function of the different brain areas.展开更多
Objectives:Postmenopausal osteoporosis is the most common form of osteoporosis in clinical practice,affecting millions of postmenopausal women worldwide.Postmenopausal osteoporosis demands safe and effective therapies...Objectives:Postmenopausal osteoporosis is the most common form of osteoporosis in clinical practice,affecting millions of postmenopausal women worldwide.Postmenopausal osteoporosis demands safe and effective therapies.This study aimed to evaluate the potential of hederagenin(Hed)for treating osteoporosis and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action.Methods:The anti-osteoporotic potential of Hed was assessed by investigating its effects on ovariectomy(OVX)-induced bone loss in mice and on receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand(RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation in RAW264.7 cells.Network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking were employed to identify key targets,which were subsequently validated experimentally.Results:In vitro,Hed suppressed osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting the formation of osteoclasts and F-actin rings and by down-regulating osteoclastspecific genes(Atp6v0d2 and Acp5).In vivo,Hed significantly amelioratedOVX-induced bone loss,restoring trabecular bone volume fraction(BV/TV)and trabecular number(Tb.N),while reducing trabecular separation(Tb.Sp).Network pharmacology analysis identified 142 overlapping targets linking Hed to osteoporosis,including tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α),interleukin-6(IL-6),and IL-1β,with enrichment in innate immune signaling and osteoclast differentiation.Molecular docking analysis indicated strong binding affinities between Hed and targets such as TNF-α,IL-6,and IL-1β.Experimentally,Hed was found to decrease RANKL,elevate osteoprotegerin(OPG),and suppress intestinalmRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β,IL-6,IL-17A,and TNF-α.Conclusion:Hed exerts significant anti-osteoporotic effects inOVX-induced osteoporosis through a dualmechanism involving the suppression of both osteoclastogenesis and innate immune signaling pathways.These findings highlighted Hed’s novel role in modulating immune-bone crosstalk,offering a promising strategy for treating osteolytic diseases without estrogenic side effects.展开更多
Hearing and balance disorders are significant health issues primarily caused by developmental defects or the irreversible loss of sensory hair cells(HCs).ldentifying the underlying genes involved in the morphogenesis ...Hearing and balance disorders are significant health issues primarily caused by developmental defects or the irreversible loss of sensory hair cells(HCs).ldentifying the underlying genes involved in the morphogenesis and development of HCs is crucial.Our current study highlights rhpn2,a member of rho-binding proteins,as essential for vestibular HC development.The rhpn2 gene is highly expressed in the crista and macula HCs.Loss of rhpn2 function in zebrafish reduces the otic vesicle area and vestibular HC number,accompanied by vestibular dysfunction.Shorter stereocilia and compromised mechanotransduction channel function are found in the crista HCs of rhpn2 mutants.Transcriptome RNA sequencing analysis predicts the potential interaction of rhpn2 with rhoab.Furthermore,co-immunoprecipitation confirms that Rhpn2 directly binds to RhoA,validating the interaction of the two proteins.rhpn2 knockout leads to a decreased expression of rock2b,a canonical RhoA signaling pathway gene.Treatment with the RhoA activator or exogenous rock2b mRNA injection mitigates crista HC stereocilia defects in rhpn2 mutants.This study uncovers the role of rhpn2 in vestibular HC development and stereocilia formation via mediating the RhoA signaling pathway,providing a target for the treatment of balance disorders.展开更多
V-raf-leukemia viral oncogene 1(RAF1),a serine/threonine protein kinase,is well established to play a crucial role in tumorigenesis and cell development.However,the specific role of hypothalamic RAF1 in regulating ene...V-raf-leukemia viral oncogene 1(RAF1),a serine/threonine protein kinase,is well established to play a crucial role in tumorigenesis and cell development.However,the specific role of hypothalamic RAF1 in regulating energy metabolism remains unknown.In this study,we found that the expression of RAF1 was significantly increased in hypothalamic AgRP neurons of diet-induced obesity(DIO)mice.Under normal chow diet feeding,overexpression of Raf1 in AgRP neurons led to obesity in mice characterized by increased body weight,fat mass,and impaired glucose tolerance.Conversely,Raf1 knockout in AgRP neurons protected against diet-induced obesity,reducing fat mass and improving glucose tolerance.Mechanistically,Raf1 activated the MAPK signaling pathway,culminating in the phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein(CREB),which enhanced transcription of Agrp and Npy.Insulin stimulation further potentiated the RAF1-MEK1/2-ERK1/2-CREB axis,highlighting RAF1's role in integrating hormonal and nutritional signals to regulate energy balance.Collectively,these findings underscore the important role of RAF1 in AgRP neurons in maintaining energy homeostasis and obesity pathogenesis,positioning it and its downstream pathways as potential therapeutic targets for innovative strategies to combat obesity and related metabolic diseases.展开更多
Objectives Therapeutic strategies for enhancing bone regeneration and combating osteoporosis remain a significant unmet medical need.This study aims to elucidate Lithospermic acid(LA)’s regulatory effects on osteobla...Objectives Therapeutic strategies for enhancing bone regeneration and combating osteoporosis remain a significant unmet medical need.This study aims to elucidate Lithospermic acid(LA)’s regulatory effects on osteoblast proliferation and differentiation,investigating its viability as a bone-healing agent.Methods This study employed various cellular and molecular biology experiments to assess the effects of LA on the viability,proliferation,cell cycle,apoptosis,differentiation,mineralization,and migration of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts.Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses were conducted to detect the expression of proteins related to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway,investigating the regulatory mechanisms by which LA promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation.Additionally,Wnt inhibitor dickkopf-1(DKK-1)andβ-catenin-silenced cell models were used to further validate the role of LA in modulating this signaling pathway.Results LA significantly promoted osteoblast proliferation without apparent cytotoxicity.Flow cytometry showed that LA regulated the cell cycle by reducing G0/G1 phase arrest and promoting G2/M phase progression.Western blot results indicated that LA upregulated the expression of proteins associated with cell proliferation and enhanced osteoblast differentiation and mineralization.Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses further confirmed that LA markedly increased the expression of Wnt andβ-catenin,facilitatingβ-catenin nuclear translocation.Treatment with the DKK-1 inhibitor significantly diminished the proliferative and differentiation-promoting effects of LA,confirming the critical role of this pathway.β-catenin knockdown experiments further substantiated its central role in LA-mediated regulation.Conclusion This study confirms that LA promotes osteoblast proliferation,differentiation,mineralization,and migration by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.展开更多
Type 2 diabetes mellitus has central complications:Diabetes,a metabolic disorder primarily characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin secretion,or impaired insulin signaling,has significant central com...Type 2 diabetes mellitus has central complications:Diabetes,a metabolic disorder primarily characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin secretion,or impaired insulin signaling,has significant central complications.Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM),the most prevalent type of diabetes,affects more than 38 million individuals in the United States(approximately 1 in 10)and is defined by chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance,which refers to a reduced cellular response to insulin.展开更多
Skeletal muscle health and function are essential determinants of metabolic health,physical performance,and overall quality of life.The quality of skeletal muscle is heavily dependent on the complex mitochondrial reti...Skeletal muscle health and function are essential determinants of metabolic health,physical performance,and overall quality of life.The quality of skeletal muscle is heavily dependent on the complex mitochondrial reticulum that contributes toward its unique adaptability.It is now recognized that mitochondrial perturbations can activate various innate immune pathways,such as the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome complex by propagating inflammatory signaling in response to damage-associated molecular patterns(DAMPs).The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multimeric protein complex and is a prominent regulator of innate immunity and cell death by mediating the activation of caspase-1,pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-18 and pro-pyroptotic protein gasdermin-D.While several studies have begun to demonstrate the relationship between various mitochondrial DAMPs(mtDAMPs)and NLRP3 inflammasome activation,the influence of various metabolic states on the production of these DAMPs and subsequent inflammatory profile remains poorly understood.This narrative review aimed to address this by highlighting the effects of skeletal muscle use and disuse on mitochondrial quality mechanisms including mitochondrial biogenesis,fusion,fission and mitophagy.Secondly,this review summarized the impact of alterations in mitochondrial quality control mechanisms following muscle denervation,aging,and exercise training in relation to NLRP3 inflammasome activation.By consolidating the current body of literature,this work aimed to further the understanding of innate immune signaling within skeletal muscle,which can highlight areas for future research and therapeutic strategies to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation during divergent metabolic conditions.展开更多
Taohong Siwu Decoction(THSWD), a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation, has been demonstrated to significantly modulate key signaling pathways implicated in atherosclerosis(AS). This review examines the complex me...Taohong Siwu Decoction(THSWD), a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation, has been demonstrated to significantly modulate key signaling pathways implicated in atherosclerosis(AS). This review examines the complex mechanisms through which THSWD influences critical pathways, including nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/serine-threonine kinase(AKT), Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK), and mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR), that play pivotal roles in AS pathogenesis. By synthesizing experimental evidence and existing literature, the review summarizes how THSWD and its bioactive constituents regulate these signaling cascades to ameliorate AS. Furthermore, it highlights the distinctive therapeutic advantages of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) compounds in managing chronic diseases driven by multi-target and multifactorial mechanisms. Analyzing disease targets from the perspective of signaling pathways enhances the scientific validation of clinical efficacy for such formulations, thereby offering novel insights for future research.展开更多
Protein aggregates,mitochondrial import stress and neurodegenerative disorders:A salient hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases,including Parkinson’s disease,is the abundance of protein aggregates(Goiran et a...Protein aggregates,mitochondrial import stress and neurodegenerative disorders:A salient hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases,including Parkinson’s disease,is the abundance of protein aggregates(Goiran et al.,2022).This molecular event is believed to lead to activation of stress pathways ultimately resulting in cellular dysfunction(Eldeeb et al.,2022).Accordingly,many lines of research investigations focused on dampening the formation of protein aggregates or augmenting the clearance of protein aggregates as a potential therapeutic strategy to counteract the progression of neurodegenerative diseases,albeit with little success(Costa-Mattioli and Walter,2020).Cell stress cues such as the accumulation of protein aggregates lead to the activation of stress response pathways that aid cells in responding to the damage.Despite the notion that the transient activation of these pathways helps cells cope with stressors,persistent activation can induce unwanted apoptosis of cells and reduce overall tissue strength as well as lead to an accumulation of aggregation-prone proteins(Hetz and Papa,2018).Mutations in proteins involved in stress signaling termination can cause conditions like ataxia and early-onset dementia(Conroy et al.,2014).Therefore,it is crucial for stress response signaling to be turned off once conditions have improved.Nevertheless,the mechanisms by which cells silence these signals are still elusive.展开更多
This narrative review examines recent advances in salivary biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC),a major subtype of oral cancer with persistently low five-year survival rates due to delayed diagnosis.Saliv...This narrative review examines recent advances in salivary biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC),a major subtype of oral cancer with persistently low five-year survival rates due to delayed diagnosis.Saliva has emerged as a noninvasive diagnostic medium capable of reflecting both local tumor activity and systemic physiological changes.Various salivary biomarkers,including microRNAs,cytokines,proteins,metabolites,and exosomes,have been linked to oncogenic signaling pathways involved in tumor progression,immune modulation,and therapeutic resistance.Advances in quantitative polymerase chain reaction,mass spectrometry,and next-generation sequencing have enabled comprehensive biomarker profiling,while point-of-care detection systems and saliva-based omics platforms are accelerating clinical translation.Remaining challenges include variability in salivary composition,lack of standardized collection protocols,and insufficient validation across large patient cohorts.This review highlights the mechanistic relevance,diagnostic potential,and translational challenges of salivary biomarkers in OSCC.展开更多
Diabetes is accompanied by oxidative damage,inflammation,and disorder of metabolic profiles.Dietary procyanidins have been reported to alleviate symptoms of diabetes,however,the underlying mechanism through which proc...Diabetes is accompanied by oxidative damage,inflammation,and disorder of metabolic profiles.Dietary procyanidins have been reported to alleviate symptoms of diabetes,however,the underlying mechanism through which procyanidins impact liver metabolic function remains unclear.Here,the effects of p eanut skin procyanidins(PSP)on oxidative stress,inflammatory injury,and dysregulated metabolism in the liver of diabetic mice were evaluated.The results showed that PSP r educed the accumulation of cholesterol and alleviated oxidative stress and inflammatory response in the liver.Moreover,PSP enhanced i nsulin signaling by increasing hepatic protein expression of insulin receptor substrate 1/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B.Untargeted metabolomics revealed that PSP altered bile acid biosynthesis,alpha linolenic acid and linoleic acid,arachidonic acid,and glycolipid metabolism in the liver.This study reveals positive effects of PSP in alleviating liver dysfunction in diabetic mice.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the anti-atherosclerosis effect of chikusetsusaponinⅣ(CSⅣ)against high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis in rats.Methods:A high-fat diet was used for the induction of atherosclerosis in rats,...Objective:To investigate the anti-atherosclerosis effect of chikusetsusaponinⅣ(CSⅣ)against high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis in rats.Methods:A high-fat diet was used for the induction of atherosclerosis in rats,and the rats received oral CSⅣor atorvastatin.The body weight,organ weights,food intake,calorie intake,lipid parameters,3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A(HMG-CoA)/mevalonate ratio,collagen,free fatty acid,cardiac parameters,apolipoprotein(A and B),antioxidant parameters,inflammatory cytokines,and inflammatory parameters were assessed.The mRNA expressions of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),IL-6,IL-17,PI3K,AKT,and mTOR were estimated.Results:CSⅣsignificantly modulated food intake,body weight,organ weight(liver,kidney,and heart),and calories(P<0.05).Total cholesterol,triglycerides,very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,cardiovascular risk index-1,and cardiovascular risk index-2 were decreased,while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and anti-atherogenic index were increased significantly in the CSⅣgroup(P<0.05).Besides,CSⅣsignificantly restored the level of HMG-CoA/mevalonate ratio,collagen,free fatty acid,cardiac parameters(creatinine kinase-MB,lactate dehydrogenase,cTnT,cTnI),apolipoprotein(apolipoprotein A and apolipoprotein B),antioxidant parameters(MDA,CAT,GPx,GSH,SOD),inflammatory cytokines(TNF-α,IL-1β,IL-6,IL-10),inflammatory parameters(COX-2,TGF-β,NF-κB),intercellular adhesion molecule-1,vascular cell adhesion molecule-1,and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.CSⅣalso decreased the mRNA expression of IL-1β,TNF-α,IL-6,IL-17,PI3K,AKT,and mTOR.Conclusions:This study showed the anti-atherosclerosis effect of CSⅣagainst high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis in rats via alteration of NF-κB/COX-2 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.展开更多
Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is a highly lethal malignancy driven by both intrinsic oncogenic pathways and immune microenvironmental regulation.Emerging evidence suggests that DNASE1L3 may influence tumor b...Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is a highly lethal malignancy driven by both intrinsic oncogenic pathways and immune microenvironmental regulation.Emerging evidence suggests that DNASE1L3 may influence tumor biology and immune responses;however,its specific roles in HCC progression and macrophage-mediated regulation remain unclear.This study aimed to elucidate the biological functions of DNASE1L3 in HCC and to determine how it modulates tumor behavior and immune interactions.Methods:Bioinformatics analyses of the GSE41804 and Cancer Genome Atlas-Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma(TCGA-LIHC)datasets were used to identify hub genes.Functional assays assessed the impact of DNASE1L3 on HCC cell proliferation,migration,invasion,and cell cycle progression.The effects of DNASE1L3 on macrophage polarization and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were examined using a co-culture system.An HCC organoid model was established to further validate its regulatory function.Results:Eight prognostic signature genes were identified,with deoxyribonuclease I-like 3(DNase I-like 3)selected as the hub gene.DNASE1L3 overexpression suppressed HCC cell growth,inhibited migration and invasion,induced G1 arrest,and modulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)markers.DNASE1L3 knockdown promoted M2-like macrophage polarization.Mechanistically,DNASE1L3 interacted withβ-catenin to enhance its ubiquitination and degradation,thereby inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin signaling and reducing PD-L1 expression.DNASE1L3 overexpression similarly restricted organoid growth and suppressed pathway activity.Conclusion:DNASE1L3 acts as a negative regulator of HCC progression by targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and reducing PD-L1 expression,thereby influencing both tumor cell behavior and macrophage-mediated immune responses.展开更多
The ErbB signaling network has recently emerged as a key modulator of central nervous system responses to injury.This review provides a comprehensive overview of ErbB receptors and their ligands,highlighting canonical...The ErbB signaling network has recently emerged as a key modulator of central nervous system responses to injury.This review provides a comprehensive overview of ErbB receptors and their ligands,highlighting canonical and non-canonical signaling mechanisms relevant to brain damage.We explore how ErbB signaling is dynamically regulated following injury and how it orchestrates processes such as neuroinflammation,gliosis,and neural repair.Special attention is given to its interplay with other critical pathways,including Notch signaling,and its roles within adult neurogenic niches,where it modulates neural stem cell behavior in response to damage.Based on accumulating preclinical evidence,we propose two therapeutic strategies for targeting ErbB signaling in brain injury:(1)dampening neuroinflammation through ErbB inhibition and(2)promoting neuroprotection and neurogenesis via neuregulin-1-mediated activation.The first strategy is supported by studies,which demonstrate that inhibition of ErbB1 limits neuroinflammation and supports neural repair in preclinical models.The latter strategy is supported by emerging studies demonstrating the significant potential of novel protein kinase C activating diterpenes in modulating ErbB signaling pathways through the regulation of neuregulin-1 release.Diterpenes,by influencing the ErbB pathway,may uniquely bridge the gap between neuroprotection and regeneration.Their potential to modulate inflammation and promote pro-regenerative cellular environments positions them as promising tools in the development of targeted therapies.By dissecting these mechanisms,we aim to shed light on the translational potential of ErbB-targeted therapies and their capacity to enhance endogenous repair processes in the injured brain.展开更多
Objectives The discovery of novel molecular targets to enhance the osteogenesis of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells(H-BMSCs)represents a promising strategy for preventing and treating osteoporosis.Thus...Objectives The discovery of novel molecular targets to enhance the osteogenesis of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells(H-BMSCs)represents a promising strategy for preventing and treating osteoporosis.Thus,the primary objective of this study is to elucidate the mechanisms by which long non-coding RNA FOXD2-AS1(lncRNA FOXD2-AS1)regulates early osteogenic differentiation in H-BMSCs,thereby identifying potential therapeutic targets.Methods Lentivirus-mediated vectors were constructed to either overexpress or silence FOXD2-AS1 in H-BMSCs.The effects of FOXD2-AS1 on osteogenesis were subsequently assessed by analyzing osteogenic marker expression and alkaline phosphatase(ALP)staining.To clarify the role of the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(JAK2/STAT3)pathway in this process,AG490 inhibitor(a JAK2/STAT3 pathway inhibitor)and knockdown of STAT3 were used to investigate the mechanisms of FOXD2-AS1.Results FOXD2-AS1 overexpression increased ALP activity and osteogenic marker expression,while its knockdown had the opposite effects.From a mechanistic perspective,FOXD2-AS1 overexpression promoted JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation,whereas its suppression attenuated their activation.Also,the osteogenic increase induced by FOXD2-AS1 overexpression was reversed by AG490 treatment or STAT3 silencing,indicating that the pathway plays a role in this process.Conclusion FOXD2-AS1 was identified as a novel genetic switch driving osteogenic commitment via JAK2/STAT3 activation,revealing a new regulatory mechanism and a potential therapeutic target for osteoporosis.展开更多
Objective:Osteoarthritis(OA)is a degenerative joint disease characterized by extracellular matrix(ECM)degradation,chondrocyte apoptosis,and chronic inflammation.Cartilage destruction and ECM degeneration contribute to...Objective:Osteoarthritis(OA)is a degenerative joint disease characterized by extracellular matrix(ECM)degradation,chondrocyte apoptosis,and chronic inflammation.Cartilage destruction and ECM degeneration contribute to joint function loss and disability.Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)up-regulates the expression of MMP-13,which degrades collagen Ⅱ.Our previous study found that 5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone(TMF)exhibited protective effects on OA chondrocytes.This study aims to investigate the protective role of TMF in inhibiting ECM degradation by mediating the Sirt1/STAT3 signaling pathway.Methods:Rat OA models were established by the injection of monosodium iodoacetate(MIA).Hematoxylin&eosin(HE)staining and immunohistochemistry(IHC)analysis were performed.IL-1β stimulated C28/I2 cells were used as OA-like chondrocyte cell model.Western blotting assays were used to determine the protein expression.Results:The expression of MMP-13 was upregulated while type Ⅱ collagen expression is downregulated,and the phosphorylation level of STAT3 is increased in rat OA models.TMF reverses the STAT3-mediated expression of MMP-13 and type v collagen.Activation of STAT3 or inhibition of Sirt1 function attenuates the inhibitory effect of TMF on ECM degradation.Conclusion:TMF can inhibit ECM degradation mediated by the STAT3 signal pathway by activating Sirt1 expression in OA cell and animal models.展开更多
基金supported by the grants from the Key Research and Development Program of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region in China(Grant No.2023B02017)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2024YFD2300703)+1 种基金the financial support from the Beijing Rural Revitalization Agricultural Science and Technology Project(Grant No.NY2401080000),BAIC01-2025the 2115 Talent Development Program of China Agricultural University.
文摘Phytomelatonin,an emerging plant hormone,plays vital roles in plant growth,development,and stress adaptation(Arnao et al.,2022;Ullah et al.,2024).It acts both as a direct antioxidant and a signaling molecule,engaging complex networks and interacting with other phytohormones(Liu et al.,2022;Khan et al.,2023).Although phytomelatonin receptors(PMTRs)have been identified in many plants(Wei et al.,2018;Wang et al.,2022;Liu et al.,2025),the downstream signaling mechanisms,particularly receptor-mediated protein modifications and transcriptional regulation,remain poorly characterized.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China to W.Tian (2022YFA1104400)the National Natural Science Foundation of China to T.Chen (82100959)a grant from the Sichuan Science and Technology Program to Z.Liu (2024YFFK0068)。
文摘Tooth morphogenesis is orchestrated by a complex interplay of signaling pathways and transcription factors that control cell proliferation,apoptosis,and differentiation,with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway playing a pivotal role.However,the comprehensive regulatory mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signaling remain largely unclear.Smad7,a key antagonist of the TGF-βsuperfamily,is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and ensuring proper cellular function.Our previous study has demonstrated that Smad7 knockout in mice leads to impaired proliferative property of tooth germ cells,resulting in small molars.Here,we identified SMAD7 expression in human dental papilla and dental pulp,colocalized with β-CATENIN and cell proliferationrelated proteins.RNA sequencing analysis revealed a significant reduction in Wnt signaling activity in Smad7-deficient mouse tooth germs.Using lentivirus transfection,we established SMAD7-knockdown human dental papilla stem cells,which manifested remarkably blunt proliferation rate,along with diminished Wnt signaling activity.In vivo transplantation investigations further revealed the indispensable role of SMAD7 in dentin formation.Mechanistically,we revealed that β-CATENIN interacts with P-SMAD2/3 and SMAD7 through co-immunoprecipitation and yeast two-hybrid assays.Inhibition of TGF-β pathway or disruption of SMAD7/β-CATENIN transcription factor complex formation potently impacted Wnt/β-catenin activities,indicating both direct and indirect regulatory mechanisms.These findings highlight the critical role of SMAD7 in the proliferation and diffe rentiation of human dental stem cells,which could contribute to dental tissue regeneration and engineering.
基金funded by Yunnan Youth Top-notch Talent Support Program(YNWR-QNBJ2018-173)Agricultural Joint project of Yunnan Provincial S&T Programs(202301BD070001-195)+2 种基金S&T project of Yunnan provincial finance(K212020001-01)supported by Yunnan Province Education Department’s Engineering Research Center of Eco-friendly Products from Yunnan Characteristic Edible FungiYunnan Province Yongsheng County Farmer Academician Technology service station.
文摘Muscle atrophy can be induced by high doses or prolonged use of glucocorticoids.Kaempferol(Kae)is a naturally occurring flavonoid with a variety of biological activities and the effect of Kae on dexamethasone(Dex)induced muscle atrophy in animals has not been elucidated.To explore this issue,the present experiments used a computationally assisted drug design scheme combining network pharmacology,molecular docking and in vivo experiments to investigate the mechanism of Kae against muscle atrophy.Network pharmacological analyses revealed 275 potential targets for Kae and 12294 potential targets for muscle atrophy,with a total of 228 crosstargets for Kae and muscle atrophy.GO and KEGG analyses were performed based on the protein-protein interaction(PPI)network of muscle atrophy and Kae component targets.The GO results showed that the biological processes were mainly related to the metabolic process of reactive oxygen species,and the response to oxidative stress;the cellular components were mainly focused on membrane microdomains,and membrane regions;the molecular functions mainly worked on phosphatase binding;and the KEGG pathway enrichment analyses identified the pathways of interaction between Kae and muscle atrophy.Finally,as verified by in vivo experiments,Kae may reduce the onset of muscle atrophy by activating the PI3K/AKT/m TOR/signalling pathway,inhibiting Foxo1/Foxo3 activity,and inhibiting downstream production of the ubiquitination 3 ligases Atrogin1 and Mu RF1;Kae also promotes the expression of NRF2/HO-1/KEAP1 signalling pathway,enhances muscle antioxidant capacity,inhibits the release of COX-2 and TNF-αinflammatory factors,and reduces the damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammatory factors to muscles.Therefore,there may be a synergistic effect of PI3K/AKT/m TOR and NRF2/HO-1/KEAP1 in Kae working together to prevent muscle atrophy.The binding energy and stability of Kae to potential targets were examined by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations,implying that Kae could be used for the prevention and treatment of muscle atrophy in patients.
基金the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at Qassim University for financial support(QU-APC-2024-9/1).
文摘Control signaling is mandatory for the operation and management of all types of communication networks,including the Third Generation Partnership Project(3GPP)mobile broadband networks.However,they consume important and scarce network resources such as bandwidth and processing power.There have been several reports of these control signaling turning into signaling storms halting network operations and causing the respective Telecom companies big financial losses.This paper draws its motivation from such real network disaster incidents attributed to signaling storms.In this paper,we present a thorough survey of the causes,of the signaling storm problems in 3GPP-based mobile broadband networks and discuss in detail their possible solutions and countermeasures.We provide relevant analytical models to help quantify the effect of the potential causes and benefits of their corresponding solutions.Another important contribution of this paper is the comparison of the possible causes and solutions/countermeasures,concerning their effect on several important network aspects such as architecture,additional signaling,fidelity,etc.,in the form of a table.This paper presents an update and an extension of our earlier conference publication.To our knowledge,no similar survey study exists on the subject.
基金supported by the Wellcome Trust(grant No.103852).
文摘The nervous system function requires a precise but plastic neural architecture.The neuronal shape dictates how neurons interact with each other and with other cells,being the morphology of dendrites and axons the central determinant of the functional properties of neurons and neural circuits.The topological and structural morphology of axons and dendrites defines and determines how synapses are conformed.The morphological diversity of axon and dendrite arborization governs the neuron’s inputs,synaptic integration,neuronal computation,signal transmission,and network circuitry,hence defining the particular connectivity and function of the different brain areas.
基金supported by the Scientific Research Project of Anhui ProvincialHealth Commission(Grant No.AHWJ2021b063)National Natural Scientific Foundation of China(Grant No.82160048)+1 种基金Natural Science Foundation Project of Anhui Province(Grant No.2308085MH265)Major Scientific Research Project of Anhui Provincial Department of Education(Grant No.2024AH040205).
文摘Objectives:Postmenopausal osteoporosis is the most common form of osteoporosis in clinical practice,affecting millions of postmenopausal women worldwide.Postmenopausal osteoporosis demands safe and effective therapies.This study aimed to evaluate the potential of hederagenin(Hed)for treating osteoporosis and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action.Methods:The anti-osteoporotic potential of Hed was assessed by investigating its effects on ovariectomy(OVX)-induced bone loss in mice and on receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand(RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation in RAW264.7 cells.Network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking were employed to identify key targets,which were subsequently validated experimentally.Results:In vitro,Hed suppressed osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting the formation of osteoclasts and F-actin rings and by down-regulating osteoclastspecific genes(Atp6v0d2 and Acp5).In vivo,Hed significantly amelioratedOVX-induced bone loss,restoring trabecular bone volume fraction(BV/TV)and trabecular number(Tb.N),while reducing trabecular separation(Tb.Sp).Network pharmacology analysis identified 142 overlapping targets linking Hed to osteoporosis,including tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α),interleukin-6(IL-6),and IL-1β,with enrichment in innate immune signaling and osteoclast differentiation.Molecular docking analysis indicated strong binding affinities between Hed and targets such as TNF-α,IL-6,and IL-1β.Experimentally,Hed was found to decrease RANKL,elevate osteoprotegerin(OPG),and suppress intestinalmRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β,IL-6,IL-17A,and TNF-α.Conclusion:Hed exerts significant anti-osteoporotic effects inOVX-induced osteoporosis through a dualmechanism involving the suppression of both osteoclastogenesis and innate immune signaling pathways.These findings highlighted Hed’s novel role in modulating immune-bone crosstalk,offering a promising strategy for treating osteolytic diseases without estrogenic side effects.
基金supported by grants from the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(BK20221377 and BK20220607)the Natural Science Foundation of the Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions of China(22KJB180023)the National Natural Science Foundation of China Grants(32200783,32350017,and 92368104),and the Qing Lan Project of Jiangsu Province.
文摘Hearing and balance disorders are significant health issues primarily caused by developmental defects or the irreversible loss of sensory hair cells(HCs).ldentifying the underlying genes involved in the morphogenesis and development of HCs is crucial.Our current study highlights rhpn2,a member of rho-binding proteins,as essential for vestibular HC development.The rhpn2 gene is highly expressed in the crista and macula HCs.Loss of rhpn2 function in zebrafish reduces the otic vesicle area and vestibular HC number,accompanied by vestibular dysfunction.Shorter stereocilia and compromised mechanotransduction channel function are found in the crista HCs of rhpn2 mutants.Transcriptome RNA sequencing analysis predicts the potential interaction of rhpn2 with rhoab.Furthermore,co-immunoprecipitation confirms that Rhpn2 directly binds to RhoA,validating the interaction of the two proteins.rhpn2 knockout leads to a decreased expression of rock2b,a canonical RhoA signaling pathway gene.Treatment with the RhoA activator or exogenous rock2b mRNA injection mitigates crista HC stereocilia defects in rhpn2 mutants.This study uncovers the role of rhpn2 in vestibular HC development and stereocilia formation via mediating the RhoA signaling pathway,providing a target for the treatment of balance disorders.
基金support from various sources,including the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.81570774,82070872,92049118,and 82370854)the Junior Thousand Talents Program of China,and the Nanjing Medical University Startup Fund(All awarded to J.L.)support provided by Jiangsu Province's Innovation Personal as well as Innovative and Entrepreneurial Team of Jiangsu Province(Grant No.JSSCTD2021)(All awarded to J.L.).
文摘V-raf-leukemia viral oncogene 1(RAF1),a serine/threonine protein kinase,is well established to play a crucial role in tumorigenesis and cell development.However,the specific role of hypothalamic RAF1 in regulating energy metabolism remains unknown.In this study,we found that the expression of RAF1 was significantly increased in hypothalamic AgRP neurons of diet-induced obesity(DIO)mice.Under normal chow diet feeding,overexpression of Raf1 in AgRP neurons led to obesity in mice characterized by increased body weight,fat mass,and impaired glucose tolerance.Conversely,Raf1 knockout in AgRP neurons protected against diet-induced obesity,reducing fat mass and improving glucose tolerance.Mechanistically,Raf1 activated the MAPK signaling pathway,culminating in the phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein(CREB),which enhanced transcription of Agrp and Npy.Insulin stimulation further potentiated the RAF1-MEK1/2-ERK1/2-CREB axis,highlighting RAF1's role in integrating hormonal and nutritional signals to regulate energy balance.Collectively,these findings underscore the important role of RAF1 in AgRP neurons in maintaining energy homeostasis and obesity pathogenesis,positioning it and its downstream pathways as potential therapeutic targets for innovative strategies to combat obesity and related metabolic diseases.
基金funded by Zhejiang Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Plan Project(2023ZL128)Zhejiang Province Medical and Health Science and Technology Project(2022504276)Hangzhou Municipal Health and Family Planning Science and Technology Program General Project(A20210086).
文摘Objectives Therapeutic strategies for enhancing bone regeneration and combating osteoporosis remain a significant unmet medical need.This study aims to elucidate Lithospermic acid(LA)’s regulatory effects on osteoblast proliferation and differentiation,investigating its viability as a bone-healing agent.Methods This study employed various cellular and molecular biology experiments to assess the effects of LA on the viability,proliferation,cell cycle,apoptosis,differentiation,mineralization,and migration of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts.Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses were conducted to detect the expression of proteins related to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway,investigating the regulatory mechanisms by which LA promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation.Additionally,Wnt inhibitor dickkopf-1(DKK-1)andβ-catenin-silenced cell models were used to further validate the role of LA in modulating this signaling pathway.Results LA significantly promoted osteoblast proliferation without apparent cytotoxicity.Flow cytometry showed that LA regulated the cell cycle by reducing G0/G1 phase arrest and promoting G2/M phase progression.Western blot results indicated that LA upregulated the expression of proteins associated with cell proliferation and enhanced osteoblast differentiation and mineralization.Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses further confirmed that LA markedly increased the expression of Wnt andβ-catenin,facilitatingβ-catenin nuclear translocation.Treatment with the DKK-1 inhibitor significantly diminished the proliferative and differentiation-promoting effects of LA,confirming the critical role of this pathway.β-catenin knockdown experiments further substantiated its central role in LA-mediated regulation.Conclusion This study confirms that LA promotes osteoblast proliferation,differentiation,mineralization,and migration by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
基金supported by grants from NIH T32(DK007260,to WC)the Steno North American Fellowship awarded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation(NNF23OC0087108,to WC)+6 种基金STI2030-Major Projects(2021ZD0202700,to HY)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32241004,to HY)the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province of China(LR24C090001,to HY)Key R&D Program of Zhejiang Province(2024SSYS0017,to HY)CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(2019-12M-5-057,to HY)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(226-2022-00193,to HY)the Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2023-PT310-01,to HY)。
文摘Type 2 diabetes mellitus has central complications:Diabetes,a metabolic disorder primarily characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin secretion,or impaired insulin signaling,has significant central complications.Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM),the most prevalent type of diabetes,affects more than 38 million individuals in the United States(approximately 1 in 10)and is defined by chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance,which refers to a reduced cellular response to insulin.
文摘Skeletal muscle health and function are essential determinants of metabolic health,physical performance,and overall quality of life.The quality of skeletal muscle is heavily dependent on the complex mitochondrial reticulum that contributes toward its unique adaptability.It is now recognized that mitochondrial perturbations can activate various innate immune pathways,such as the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome complex by propagating inflammatory signaling in response to damage-associated molecular patterns(DAMPs).The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multimeric protein complex and is a prominent regulator of innate immunity and cell death by mediating the activation of caspase-1,pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-18 and pro-pyroptotic protein gasdermin-D.While several studies have begun to demonstrate the relationship between various mitochondrial DAMPs(mtDAMPs)and NLRP3 inflammasome activation,the influence of various metabolic states on the production of these DAMPs and subsequent inflammatory profile remains poorly understood.This narrative review aimed to address this by highlighting the effects of skeletal muscle use and disuse on mitochondrial quality mechanisms including mitochondrial biogenesis,fusion,fission and mitophagy.Secondly,this review summarized the impact of alterations in mitochondrial quality control mechanisms following muscle denervation,aging,and exercise training in relation to NLRP3 inflammasome activation.By consolidating the current body of literature,this work aimed to further the understanding of innate immune signaling within skeletal muscle,which can highlight areas for future research and therapeutic strategies to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation during divergent metabolic conditions.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 82104430 and 82274133)the Shanghai Sailing Program (No. 21YF1447600)the Future Plan for Traditional Chinese Medicine Development of Science and Technology of Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (No. WL-HBQN-2022002K)。
文摘Taohong Siwu Decoction(THSWD), a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation, has been demonstrated to significantly modulate key signaling pathways implicated in atherosclerosis(AS). This review examines the complex mechanisms through which THSWD influences critical pathways, including nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/serine-threonine kinase(AKT), Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK), and mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR), that play pivotal roles in AS pathogenesis. By synthesizing experimental evidence and existing literature, the review summarizes how THSWD and its bioactive constituents regulate these signaling cascades to ameliorate AS. Furthermore, it highlights the distinctive therapeutic advantages of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) compounds in managing chronic diseases driven by multi-target and multifactorial mechanisms. Analyzing disease targets from the perspective of signaling pathways enhances the scientific validation of clinical efficacy for such formulations, thereby offering novel insights for future research.
文摘Protein aggregates,mitochondrial import stress and neurodegenerative disorders:A salient hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases,including Parkinson’s disease,is the abundance of protein aggregates(Goiran et al.,2022).This molecular event is believed to lead to activation of stress pathways ultimately resulting in cellular dysfunction(Eldeeb et al.,2022).Accordingly,many lines of research investigations focused on dampening the formation of protein aggregates or augmenting the clearance of protein aggregates as a potential therapeutic strategy to counteract the progression of neurodegenerative diseases,albeit with little success(Costa-Mattioli and Walter,2020).Cell stress cues such as the accumulation of protein aggregates lead to the activation of stress response pathways that aid cells in responding to the damage.Despite the notion that the transient activation of these pathways helps cells cope with stressors,persistent activation can induce unwanted apoptosis of cells and reduce overall tissue strength as well as lead to an accumulation of aggregation-prone proteins(Hetz and Papa,2018).Mutations in proteins involved in stress signaling termination can cause conditions like ataxia and early-onset dementia(Conroy et al.,2014).Therefore,it is crucial for stress response signaling to be turned off once conditions have improved.Nevertheless,the mechanisms by which cells silence these signals are still elusive.
基金supported by the College of Oral Medicine,Taipei Medical University,Taipei,Taiwan(Grant No.TMUCOM202502)supported by Taipei Medical University Hospital,Taipei,Taiwan(Grant No.114TMUH-NE-05).
文摘This narrative review examines recent advances in salivary biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC),a major subtype of oral cancer with persistently low five-year survival rates due to delayed diagnosis.Saliva has emerged as a noninvasive diagnostic medium capable of reflecting both local tumor activity and systemic physiological changes.Various salivary biomarkers,including microRNAs,cytokines,proteins,metabolites,and exosomes,have been linked to oncogenic signaling pathways involved in tumor progression,immune modulation,and therapeutic resistance.Advances in quantitative polymerase chain reaction,mass spectrometry,and next-generation sequencing have enabled comprehensive biomarker profiling,while point-of-care detection systems and saliva-based omics platforms are accelerating clinical translation.Remaining challenges include variability in salivary composition,lack of standardized collection protocols,and insufficient validation across large patient cohorts.This review highlights the mechanistic relevance,diagnostic potential,and translational challenges of salivary biomarkers in OSCC.
基金supported by the project of National Natural Science Foundation of China(32272331 and 82560638)Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects(Qiankehe[2024]youth 326)+1 种基金Zunyi Science and Technology Projects(Zunshikehe HZ zi 2024312 hao)Guizhou Provincial Health Commission Science and Technology Fund(gzwkj2025-512).
文摘Diabetes is accompanied by oxidative damage,inflammation,and disorder of metabolic profiles.Dietary procyanidins have been reported to alleviate symptoms of diabetes,however,the underlying mechanism through which procyanidins impact liver metabolic function remains unclear.Here,the effects of p eanut skin procyanidins(PSP)on oxidative stress,inflammatory injury,and dysregulated metabolism in the liver of diabetic mice were evaluated.The results showed that PSP r educed the accumulation of cholesterol and alleviated oxidative stress and inflammatory response in the liver.Moreover,PSP enhanced i nsulin signaling by increasing hepatic protein expression of insulin receptor substrate 1/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B.Untargeted metabolomics revealed that PSP altered bile acid biosynthesis,alpha linolenic acid and linoleic acid,arachidonic acid,and glycolipid metabolism in the liver.This study reveals positive effects of PSP in alleviating liver dysfunction in diabetic mice.
基金funded by the Yancheng Municipal Health Commission 2024 Medical Research Project(YK2024166).
文摘Objective:To investigate the anti-atherosclerosis effect of chikusetsusaponinⅣ(CSⅣ)against high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis in rats.Methods:A high-fat diet was used for the induction of atherosclerosis in rats,and the rats received oral CSⅣor atorvastatin.The body weight,organ weights,food intake,calorie intake,lipid parameters,3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A(HMG-CoA)/mevalonate ratio,collagen,free fatty acid,cardiac parameters,apolipoprotein(A and B),antioxidant parameters,inflammatory cytokines,and inflammatory parameters were assessed.The mRNA expressions of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),IL-6,IL-17,PI3K,AKT,and mTOR were estimated.Results:CSⅣsignificantly modulated food intake,body weight,organ weight(liver,kidney,and heart),and calories(P<0.05).Total cholesterol,triglycerides,very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,cardiovascular risk index-1,and cardiovascular risk index-2 were decreased,while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and anti-atherogenic index were increased significantly in the CSⅣgroup(P<0.05).Besides,CSⅣsignificantly restored the level of HMG-CoA/mevalonate ratio,collagen,free fatty acid,cardiac parameters(creatinine kinase-MB,lactate dehydrogenase,cTnT,cTnI),apolipoprotein(apolipoprotein A and apolipoprotein B),antioxidant parameters(MDA,CAT,GPx,GSH,SOD),inflammatory cytokines(TNF-α,IL-1β,IL-6,IL-10),inflammatory parameters(COX-2,TGF-β,NF-κB),intercellular adhesion molecule-1,vascular cell adhesion molecule-1,and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.CSⅣalso decreased the mRNA expression of IL-1β,TNF-α,IL-6,IL-17,PI3K,AKT,and mTOR.Conclusions:This study showed the anti-atherosclerosis effect of CSⅣagainst high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis in rats via alteration of NF-κB/COX-2 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
基金funded by Shanghai Science and Technology Innovation Action Plan Project(22140901100)Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging(18DZ2260400)Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Science Seed Fund(SSF-24-21-01).
文摘Background:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is a highly lethal malignancy driven by both intrinsic oncogenic pathways and immune microenvironmental regulation.Emerging evidence suggests that DNASE1L3 may influence tumor biology and immune responses;however,its specific roles in HCC progression and macrophage-mediated regulation remain unclear.This study aimed to elucidate the biological functions of DNASE1L3 in HCC and to determine how it modulates tumor behavior and immune interactions.Methods:Bioinformatics analyses of the GSE41804 and Cancer Genome Atlas-Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma(TCGA-LIHC)datasets were used to identify hub genes.Functional assays assessed the impact of DNASE1L3 on HCC cell proliferation,migration,invasion,and cell cycle progression.The effects of DNASE1L3 on macrophage polarization and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were examined using a co-culture system.An HCC organoid model was established to further validate its regulatory function.Results:Eight prognostic signature genes were identified,with deoxyribonuclease I-like 3(DNase I-like 3)selected as the hub gene.DNASE1L3 overexpression suppressed HCC cell growth,inhibited migration and invasion,induced G1 arrest,and modulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)markers.DNASE1L3 knockdown promoted M2-like macrophage polarization.Mechanistically,DNASE1L3 interacted withβ-catenin to enhance its ubiquitination and degradation,thereby inhibiting Wnt/β-catenin signaling and reducing PD-L1 expression.DNASE1L3 overexpression similarly restricted organoid growth and suppressed pathway activity.Conclusion:DNASE1L3 acts as a negative regulator of HCC progression by targeting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and reducing PD-L1 expression,thereby influencing both tumor cell behavior and macrophage-mediated immune responses.
基金supported by the I+D+i(PID2022-142418OB-C21)grant funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by ERDF/UE.
文摘The ErbB signaling network has recently emerged as a key modulator of central nervous system responses to injury.This review provides a comprehensive overview of ErbB receptors and their ligands,highlighting canonical and non-canonical signaling mechanisms relevant to brain damage.We explore how ErbB signaling is dynamically regulated following injury and how it orchestrates processes such as neuroinflammation,gliosis,and neural repair.Special attention is given to its interplay with other critical pathways,including Notch signaling,and its roles within adult neurogenic niches,where it modulates neural stem cell behavior in response to damage.Based on accumulating preclinical evidence,we propose two therapeutic strategies for targeting ErbB signaling in brain injury:(1)dampening neuroinflammation through ErbB inhibition and(2)promoting neuroprotection and neurogenesis via neuregulin-1-mediated activation.The first strategy is supported by studies,which demonstrate that inhibition of ErbB1 limits neuroinflammation and supports neural repair in preclinical models.The latter strategy is supported by emerging studies demonstrating the significant potential of novel protein kinase C activating diterpenes in modulating ErbB signaling pathways through the regulation of neuregulin-1 release.Diterpenes,by influencing the ErbB pathway,may uniquely bridge the gap between neuroprotection and regeneration.Their potential to modulate inflammation and promote pro-regenerative cellular environments positions them as promising tools in the development of targeted therapies.By dissecting these mechanisms,we aim to shed light on the translational potential of ErbB-targeted therapies and their capacity to enhance endogenous repair processes in the injured brain.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province of China(Grant No.2023AFB671)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.82360177 and 82560182)+1 种基金the Key Project of Jiangxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation(Grant No.20224ACB206011)“Xuncheng Talents”Project in Jiujiang City,Jiangxi Province(Grant No.JJXC2023071).
文摘Objectives The discovery of novel molecular targets to enhance the osteogenesis of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells(H-BMSCs)represents a promising strategy for preventing and treating osteoporosis.Thus,the primary objective of this study is to elucidate the mechanisms by which long non-coding RNA FOXD2-AS1(lncRNA FOXD2-AS1)regulates early osteogenic differentiation in H-BMSCs,thereby identifying potential therapeutic targets.Methods Lentivirus-mediated vectors were constructed to either overexpress or silence FOXD2-AS1 in H-BMSCs.The effects of FOXD2-AS1 on osteogenesis were subsequently assessed by analyzing osteogenic marker expression and alkaline phosphatase(ALP)staining.To clarify the role of the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(JAK2/STAT3)pathway in this process,AG490 inhibitor(a JAK2/STAT3 pathway inhibitor)and knockdown of STAT3 were used to investigate the mechanisms of FOXD2-AS1.Results FOXD2-AS1 overexpression increased ALP activity and osteogenic marker expression,while its knockdown had the opposite effects.From a mechanistic perspective,FOXD2-AS1 overexpression promoted JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation,whereas its suppression attenuated their activation.Also,the osteogenic increase induced by FOXD2-AS1 overexpression was reversed by AG490 treatment or STAT3 silencing,indicating that the pathway plays a role in this process.Conclusion FOXD2-AS1 was identified as a novel genetic switch driving osteogenic commitment via JAK2/STAT3 activation,revealing a new regulatory mechanism and a potential therapeutic target for osteoporosis.
基金Project Supported by Jiangxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation(20212ACB206002)。
文摘Objective:Osteoarthritis(OA)is a degenerative joint disease characterized by extracellular matrix(ECM)degradation,chondrocyte apoptosis,and chronic inflammation.Cartilage destruction and ECM degeneration contribute to joint function loss and disability.Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3)up-regulates the expression of MMP-13,which degrades collagen Ⅱ.Our previous study found that 5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone(TMF)exhibited protective effects on OA chondrocytes.This study aims to investigate the protective role of TMF in inhibiting ECM degradation by mediating the Sirt1/STAT3 signaling pathway.Methods:Rat OA models were established by the injection of monosodium iodoacetate(MIA).Hematoxylin&eosin(HE)staining and immunohistochemistry(IHC)analysis were performed.IL-1β stimulated C28/I2 cells were used as OA-like chondrocyte cell model.Western blotting assays were used to determine the protein expression.Results:The expression of MMP-13 was upregulated while type Ⅱ collagen expression is downregulated,and the phosphorylation level of STAT3 is increased in rat OA models.TMF reverses the STAT3-mediated expression of MMP-13 and type v collagen.Activation of STAT3 or inhibition of Sirt1 function attenuates the inhibitory effect of TMF on ECM degradation.Conclusion:TMF can inhibit ECM degradation mediated by the STAT3 signal pathway by activating Sirt1 expression in OA cell and animal models.
