BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and treatment-resistant disorder requiring potent therapeutics that are effective and safe.Cedrol(CE)is a bioactive natural product present in many traditional Chinese med...BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and treatment-resistant disorder requiring potent therapeutics that are effective and safe.Cedrol(CE)is a bioactive natural product present in many traditional Chinese medicines.It is known for its suppression of inflammation and mitigation of oxidative stress.Its therapeutic efficacy and mechanistic underpinnings in UC remain uncharacterized.AIM To investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of CE in UC.METHODS The anti-inflammatory activity and intestinal barrier-repairing effects of CE were assessed in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis model.Network pharmacology was employed to predict potential targets and pathways.Then molecular docking and dynamics simulations were utilized to confirm a stable interaction between CE and the toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 2(MD2)complex.The anti-inflammatory mechanisms were further verified using in vitro assays.Additionally,the gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA gene sequencing.RESULTS CE significantly alleviated colitis symptoms,mitigated histopathological damage,and suppressed inflammation.Moreover,CE restored intestinal barrier integrity by enhancing mucus secretion and upregulating tight junction proteins(zonula occludens 1,occludin,claudin-1).Mechanistically,CE stably bound to MD2,inhibiting lipopolysaccharide-induced TLR4 signaling in RAW264.7 cells.This led to suppression of the downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathways,downregulating the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha,interleukin-1β,and interleukin-6.Gut microbiota analysis revealed that CE reversed dextran sulfate sodium-induced dysbiosis with significant enrichment of butyrogenic Christensenella minuta.CONCLUSION CE acted on MD2 to suppress proinflammatory cascades,promoting mucosal barrier reconstitution and microbiota remodeling and supporting its therapeutic use in UC.展开更多
In honeybee （Apis mellifera） colonies, queens and workers are altemative forms of the adult female honeybee that develop from genetically identical zygotes but that depend on differential nourishment. Queens and wor...In honeybee （Apis mellifera） colonies, queens and workers are altemative forms of the adult female honeybee that develop from genetically identical zygotes but that depend on differential nourishment. Queens and workers display distinct morphologies, anatomies and behavior, better known as caste differentiation. Despite some basic insights, the exact mechanism responsible for this phenomenon, especially at the molecular level, remains unclear although some progress has been achieved. In this study, we examined mRNA levels of the TOR （target of rapamycin） and Dnmt3 （DNA methyltransferase 3） genes, closely related to caste differentiation in honeybees. We also investigated mRNA expression of the S6K （similar to RPS6-p70-protein kinase） gene linked closely to organismal growth and development in queen and worker larvae （1-day and 3-day old）. Last, we investigated the methylation status of these three genes in corresponding castes. We found no difference in mRNA expression for the three genes between 1st instar queen and worker larvae; however, 3rd instar queen larvae had a higher level of TOR mRNA than worker larvae. Methylation levels of all three genes were lower in queen larvae than worker larvae but the differences were not statistically significant. These findings provide basic data for broadening our understanding of caste differentiation in female honeybees.展开更多
ALKBH1 was recently discovered as a demethylase for DNA N6-methyladenine （N6-mA）, a new epigenetic modification, and interacts with the core transcriptional pluripotency network of embryonic stem cells. However, the...ALKBH1 was recently discovered as a demethylase for DNA N6-methyladenine （N6-mA）, a new epigenetic modification, and interacts with the core transcriptional pluripotency network of embryonic stem cells. However, the role of ALKBH1 and DNA N6-mA in regulating osteogenic differentiation is largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that the expression of ALKBH1 in human mesenchymal stem cells （MSCs） was upregulated during osteogenic induction. Knockdown of ALKBH1 increased the genomic DNA N6-mA levels and significantly reduced the expression of osteogenic-related genes, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization. ALKBHl-depleted MSCs also exhibited a restricted capacity for bone formation in vivo. By contrast, the ectopic overexpression of ALKBH1 enhanced osteoblastic differentiation. Mechanically, we found that the depletion of ALKBH1 resulted in the accumulation of N6-mA on the promoter region of ATF4, which subsequently silenced ATF4 transcription. In addition, restoring the expression of ATP by adenovirus-mediated transduction successfully rescued osteogenic differentiation. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ALKBH1 is indispensable for the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and indicate that DNA N6-mA modifications area new mechanism for the epigenetic regulation of stem cell differentiation.展开更多
Two morphotypes of Plectropomus leopardus have been identified; morphometric and meristic analyses show that there is no diagnostic difference between them. A difference in color pattern was the most ap- propriate phe...Two morphotypes of Plectropomus leopardus have been identified; morphometric and meristic analyses show that there is no diagnostic difference between them. A difference in color pattern was the most ap- propriate phenotypic character with which to distinguish between the two morphotypes. Complete mito- chondrial DNA sequencing, however, indicated a clear difference between the two morphotypes. Barcoding analysis revealed no significant difference （P〉0.05） in CO1 or ND2 divergence among intramorphotypic individuals, even between geographically separated populations, whereas the intermorphotypic CO1 and ND2 divergences were large enough （averaging 0.95% for CO1 and 1.37% for ND2） to clearly discriminate between the two morphotypes. The color pattern difference, geographical distribution, together with the mtDNA and barcode sequencing data, suggest that the two morphotypes should be of two subspecies or even two species.展开更多
Neural EGFL-like 2(NELL2)is a secreted protein known for its regulatory functions in the nervous and reproductive systems,yet its role in bone biology remains unexplored.In this study,we observed that NELL2 was dimini...Neural EGFL-like 2(NELL2)is a secreted protein known for its regulatory functions in the nervous and reproductive systems,yet its role in bone biology remains unexplored.In this study,we observed that NELL2 was diminished in the bone of aged and ovariectomized(OVX)mice,as well as in the serum of osteopenia and osteoporosis patients.In vitro loss-of-function and gain-offunction studies revealed that NELL2 facilitated osteoblast differentiation and impeded adipocyte differentiation from stromal progenitor cells.In vivo studies further demonstrated that the deletion of NELL2 in preosteoblasts resulted in decreased cancellous bone mass in mice.Mechanistically,NELL2 interacted with the FNI-type domain located at the C-terminus of Fibronectin 1(Fn1).Moreover,we found that NELL2 activated the focal adhesion kinase(FAK)/AKT signaling pathway through Fn1/integrinβ1(ITGB1),leading to the promotion of osteogenesis and the inhibition of adipogenesis.Notably,administration of NELL2-AAV was found to ameliorate bone loss in OVX mice.These findings underscore the significant role of NELL2 in osteoblast differentiation and bone homeostasis,suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for managing osteoporosis.展开更多
Populus caspica Bornm.(section Leuce and subsection Albida), one of the most endangered endemic tree species in the Hyrcanian Forest in Iran, has numerous morphological characteristics that are closely similar to Popu...Populus caspica Bornm.(section Leuce and subsection Albida), one of the most endangered endemic tree species in the Hyrcanian Forest in Iran, has numerous morphological characteristics that are closely similar to Populus alba; to clarify their taxonomic relatedness and genetic differentiation and thus inform conservation strategies, we used the noncoding regions of chloroplast DNA(cpDNA; trnL-F and trnH-psbA) and the internal transcribed spacer(ITS). Leaf samples were collected from six populations across northern Iran. cpDNA and ITS fragments were amplified by universal primers using the PCR technique and directed sequencing. The results showed that P. caspica is genetically differentiated from P.alba, and two ITS variants were detected within some P.caspica individuals. Conflicts between topologies from ITS and plastid genomes were observed. High differentiation of P. caspica from the other Populus species shown in this study confirmed the diverging taxonomic status of this endangered species. We recommend in situ conservation measures(e.g., protected areas) for at least several populations of this species, especially in the plain regions of the Hyrcanian forest.展开更多
Ewing’s sarcoma is a pediatric tumor that mainly occurs in soft tissues and bones. Malignant characteristics of Ewing’s sarcoma are correlated with expression of EWS oncogene. We achieved knockdown of EWS expression...Ewing’s sarcoma is a pediatric tumor that mainly occurs in soft tissues and bones. Malignant characteristics of Ewing’s sarcoma are correlated with expression of EWS oncogene. We achieved knockdown of EWS expression using a plasmid vector encoding EWS short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to increase anti-tumor mechanisms of taxifolin (TFL), a new flavonoid, in human Ewing’s sarcoma cells in culture and animal models. Immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometric analysis showed high expression of EWS in human Ewing’s sarcoma SK-N-MC and RD-ES cell lines. EWS shRNA plus TFL inhibited 80% cell viability and caused the highest decreases in EWS expression at mRNA and protein levels in both cell lines. Knockdown of EWS expression induced morphological features of differentiation. EWS shRNA plus TFL caused more alterations in molecular markers of differentiation than either agent alone. EWS shRNA plus TFL caused the highest decreases in cell migration with inhibition of survival, angiogenic and invasive factors. Knockdown of EWS expression was associated with removal of DNA methylation from p53 promoter, promoting expression of p53, Puma, and Noxa. EWS shRNA plus TFL induced the highest amounts of apoptosis with activation of extrinsic and intrinsic pathways in both cell lines in culture. EWS shRNA plus TFL also inhibited growth of Ewing’s sarcoma tumors in animal models due to inhibition of differentiation inhibitors and angiogenic and invasive factors and also induction of activation of caspase-3 for apoptosis. Collectively, knockdown of EWS expression increased various anti-tumor mechanisms of TFL in human Ewing’s sarcoma in cell culture and animal models.展开更多
Aphis glycines （Hemiptera： Aphididae） is considered as a cosmopolitan pest of cultivated soybean, major difficulties in its control measures may be due to its higher genetic diversity; however, the knowledge about ...Aphis glycines （Hemiptera： Aphididae） is considered as a cosmopolitan pest of cultivated soybean, major difficulties in its control measures may be due to its higher genetic diversity; however, the knowledge about population genetic diversity of this species is limited. This study aimed to represent the genetic differentiation among different geographic populations of soybean aphid in Northeast China. In order to investigate and assess the genetic diversity, genetic differentiation, molecular variance, population structure, ecological importance and evolutionary history of A. glycines, we sequenced a fragment of one protein-coding gene, the cytochrome c oxidase I/of mitochondrial DNA gene. The results showed that four haplotypes were defined among CO 11 gene of 180 sequences of soybean aphid in Northeast China including H1 shared by all the populations. Lower haplotype diversity （Hd=0.3590± 0.0420） and nucleotide diversity （Pi=0.0012±0.0002） were observed and high gene flow was detected in every two populations, while most of the variation （80.81%） arose from variability within A. glycines from individuals. Low genetic differentiation and high gene flow （Nm=2.106） indicated a high migration rate between the populations, which might reveal that gene flow in different geographic populations did not affect by geographical distance. The phylogenetic tree and the haplotype network ofA. glycines were obtained based on sequences of CO Ⅱ gene, there were no significant genealogical branches or clusters recognized in NJ tree, and no clear distribution, delineation of haplotypes were demonstrated in the haplotype network according to geographical location. This study rejected the vicariance hypothesis： geographic isolation could be a barrier and it restricted A. glycines gene flow among 10 populations.展开更多
Masu salmon,Oncorhynchus masou masou,is one of the most valuable fishery species that has been introduced to China,though to date no studies on the genetic diversity and genetic relationship among hatchery populations...Masu salmon,Oncorhynchus masou masou,is one of the most valuable fishery species that has been introduced to China,though to date no studies on the genetic diversity and genetic relationship among hatchery populations has been performed with molecular markers.We undertook such a study and sampled 120 individuals from three hatchery stocks and analyzed 20 microsatellite loci.All loci were polymorphic and a total of 91 alleles were detected.A relatively low level of genetic diversity was revealed with effective number of allele of 3.1094,3.3299 and 3.1894 and expected heterozygosity of 0.6600,0.6648 and 0.6638 in the three stocks,respectively.Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were found due to heterozygote deficit.Accordingly,evidence of genetic bottlenecks were found in the three stocks.An individual assignment test demonstrated that 85%of individuals were correctly assigned into their original stocks.Pairwise Fst revealed that significant differentiation occurred between these three stocks.The results of the study indicated that disequilibrium of genetic structure and differentiation has occurred in all three stocks.This information collectively provides a basis for measures to avoid of loss of genetic diversity and introgression in Chinese aquaculture.展开更多
We examined 50 Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains isolated from broiler chickens between January 2013 to March 2014 in order to evaluate the epidemiological prevalence of avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) in Jordan by m...We examined 50 Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains isolated from broiler chickens between January 2013 to March 2014 in order to evaluate the epidemiological prevalence of avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) in Jordan by multiplex PCR and random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) tests. The multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) which was used as tentative criteria of APEC targets 8 virulence associated genes;enteroaggregative toxin (astA), Type 1 fimbria adhesion (fimH), iron-repressible protein (irp2), P fimbriae (papC), aerobactin (iucD), temperature-sensitive hemagglutinin (tsh), vacuolating autotransporter toxin (vat), and colicin V plasmid operon (cva/cvi) genes. The number of detected genes could be used as a reliable index of their virulence. E. coli strains already typed as an APEC always harbor 5 to 8 genes, but non-APEC strains harbor less than 4 genes. Assuming the criteria of an APEC is possession of 5 or more virulence associated genes;we found that all 50 E. coli strains were classified as APEC strains. The RAPD analysis showed that the E. coli strains could be grouped into 35 of RAPD types by using these two different RAPD primer sets, RAPD analysis primer 4 5'AAGAGCCCGT5', and RAPD analysis primer 6 5'CCCGTCAGCA3'. The current study confirmed the endemic nature of APEC in broiler flocks in Jordan. It is essential that the biosecurity on poultry farms should be improved to prevent the introduction and dissemination of APEC and other agents. Furthermore, farmers need to be educated about the signs, lesions, and the importance of this agent.展开更多
The rare earth elements(REEs)extraction by chemical leaching from ion-adsorption type rare earth ores(IAREO)has led to serious ecological and environmental risks.Conversely,demand for bioleaching is on the rise with t...The rare earth elements(REEs)extraction by chemical leaching from ion-adsorption type rare earth ores(IAREO)has led to serious ecological and environmental risks.Conversely,demand for bioleaching is on the rise with the advantage of being environmental-friendly.As one of the organic acids produced by biological metabolism,citric acid was used to leach REEs and explore the performance and process.The results demonstrate that citric acid exhibits higher leaching efficiency(96.00%)for REEs at a relatively low concentration of 0.01 mol/L compared with(NH_(4))_(2)SO_(4)(84.29%,0.1 mol/L)and MgSO_(4)(83.99%,0.1 mol/L).Citric acid shows a preference for leaching heavy rare earth elements,with 99%leaching efficiency in IAREO,which shows higher capacity than(NH_(4))_(2)SO_(4)and MgSO_(4)(as inorganic leaching agents).Kinetic analysis indicates that the leaching process of REEs with citric acid is controlled by both the internal diffusion kinetics and chemical reaction kinetics,which is different from inorganic leaching agents.Visual Minteq calculations confirm that RE-Citrate is the main constituent of the extract solution in the leaching process of the IAREO,thereby enhancing the leaching efficiency of REEs from the IAREO.It suggests that citric acid may be used as a promising organic leaching agent for the environmentalfriendly extraction of REEs from IAREO.展开更多
Photobiomodulation,originally used red and near-infrared lasers,can alter cellular metabolism.It has been demonstrated that the visible spectrum at 451-540 nm does not necessarily increase cell proliferation,near-infr...Photobiomodulation,originally used red and near-infrared lasers,can alter cellular metabolism.It has been demonstrated that the visible spectrum at 451-540 nm does not necessarily increase cell proliferation,near-infrared light promotes adipose stem cell proliferation and affects adipose stem cell migration,which is necessary for the cells homing to the site of injury.In this in vitro study,we explored the potential of adipose-derived stem cells to differentiate into neurons for future translational regenerative treatments in neurodegenerative disorders and brain injuries.We investigated the effects of various biological and chemical inducers on trans-differentiation and evaluated the impact of photobiomodulation using 825 nm near-infrared and 525 nm green laser light at 5 J/cm2.As adipose-derived stem cells can be used in autologous grafting and photobiomodulation has been shown to have biostimulatory effects.Our findings reveal that adipose-derived stem cells can indeed trans-differentiate into neuronal cells when exposed to inducers,with pre-induced cells exhibiting higher rates of proliferation and trans-differentiation compared with the control group.Interestingly,green laser light stimulation led to notable morphological changes indicative of enhanced trans-differentiation,while near-infrared photobiomodulation notably increased the expression of neuronal markers.Through biochemical analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays,we observed marked improvements in viability,proliferation,membrane permeability,and mitochondrial membrane potential,as well as increased protein levels of neuron-specific enolase and ciliary neurotrophic factor.Overall,our results demonstrate the efficacy of photobiomodulation in enhancing the trans-differentiation ability of adipose-derived stem cells,offering promising prospects for their use in regenerative medicine for neurodegenerative disorders and brain injuries.展开更多
基金Supported by the Provincial Key Cultivation Laboratory for Digestive Disease Research,No.2021SYS13Shanxi Province’s“Si Ge Yi Pi”Science and Technology Driven Medical Innovation Project,No.2021MX03Shanxi Provincial Basic Research Program,No.202403021222423.
文摘BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic and treatment-resistant disorder requiring potent therapeutics that are effective and safe.Cedrol(CE)is a bioactive natural product present in many traditional Chinese medicines.It is known for its suppression of inflammation and mitigation of oxidative stress.Its therapeutic efficacy and mechanistic underpinnings in UC remain uncharacterized.AIM To investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of CE in UC.METHODS The anti-inflammatory activity and intestinal barrier-repairing effects of CE were assessed in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis model.Network pharmacology was employed to predict potential targets and pathways.Then molecular docking and dynamics simulations were utilized to confirm a stable interaction between CE and the toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 2(MD2)complex.The anti-inflammatory mechanisms were further verified using in vitro assays.Additionally,the gut microbiota composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA gene sequencing.RESULTS CE significantly alleviated colitis symptoms,mitigated histopathological damage,and suppressed inflammation.Moreover,CE restored intestinal barrier integrity by enhancing mucus secretion and upregulating tight junction proteins(zonula occludens 1,occludin,claudin-1).Mechanistically,CE stably bound to MD2,inhibiting lipopolysaccharide-induced TLR4 signaling in RAW264.7 cells.This led to suppression of the downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathways,downregulating the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha,interleukin-1β,and interleukin-6.Gut microbiota analysis revealed that CE reversed dextran sulfate sodium-induced dysbiosis with significant enrichment of butyrogenic Christensenella minuta.CONCLUSION CE acted on MD2 to suppress proinflammatory cascades,promoting mucosal barrier reconstitution and microbiota remodeling and supporting its therapeutic use in UC.
基金supported by the Yunnan Government(2009CI119)Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System(Honeybee)(CARS-45-kxj14)
文摘In honeybee （Apis mellifera） colonies, queens and workers are altemative forms of the adult female honeybee that develop from genetically identical zygotes but that depend on differential nourishment. Queens and workers display distinct morphologies, anatomies and behavior, better known as caste differentiation. Despite some basic insights, the exact mechanism responsible for this phenomenon, especially at the molecular level, remains unclear although some progress has been achieved. In this study, we examined mRNA levels of the TOR （target of rapamycin） and Dnmt3 （DNA methyltransferase 3） genes, closely related to caste differentiation in honeybees. We also investigated mRNA expression of the S6K （similar to RPS6-p70-protein kinase） gene linked closely to organismal growth and development in queen and worker larvae （1-day and 3-day old）. Last, we investigated the methylation status of these three genes in corresponding castes. We found no difference in mRNA expression for the three genes between 1st instar queen and worker larvae; however, 3rd instar queen larvae had a higher level of TOR mRNA than worker larvae. Methylation levels of all three genes were lower in queen larvae than worker larvae but the differences were not statistically significant. These findings provide basic data for broadening our understanding of caste differentiation in female honeybees.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.81271178 and 81470777)
文摘ALKBH1 was recently discovered as a demethylase for DNA N6-methyladenine （N6-mA）, a new epigenetic modification, and interacts with the core transcriptional pluripotency network of embryonic stem cells. However, the role of ALKBH1 and DNA N6-mA in regulating osteogenic differentiation is largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that the expression of ALKBH1 in human mesenchymal stem cells （MSCs） was upregulated during osteogenic induction. Knockdown of ALKBH1 increased the genomic DNA N6-mA levels and significantly reduced the expression of osteogenic-related genes, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization. ALKBHl-depleted MSCs also exhibited a restricted capacity for bone formation in vivo. By contrast, the ectopic overexpression of ALKBH1 enhanced osteoblastic differentiation. Mechanically, we found that the depletion of ALKBH1 resulted in the accumulation of N6-mA on the promoter region of ATF4, which subsequently silenced ATF4 transcription. In addition, restoring the expression of ATP by adenovirus-mediated transduction successfully rescued osteogenic differentiation. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ALKBH1 is indispensable for the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and indicate that DNA N6-mA modifications area new mechanism for the epigenetic regulation of stem cell differentiation.
基金Key Program of the Science and Technology Department Foundation of Fujian Province under contract No.2007N0050the Seed Industry Innovation and Industrialization Project of Fujian Province,China(on the subtopic of groupers)
文摘Two morphotypes of Plectropomus leopardus have been identified; morphometric and meristic analyses show that there is no diagnostic difference between them. A difference in color pattern was the most ap- propriate phenotypic character with which to distinguish between the two morphotypes. Complete mito- chondrial DNA sequencing, however, indicated a clear difference between the two morphotypes. Barcoding analysis revealed no significant difference （P〉0.05） in CO1 or ND2 divergence among intramorphotypic individuals, even between geographically separated populations, whereas the intermorphotypic CO1 and ND2 divergences were large enough （averaging 0.95% for CO1 and 1.37% for ND2） to clearly discriminate between the two morphotypes. The color pattern difference, geographical distribution, together with the mtDNA and barcode sequencing data, suggest that the two morphotypes should be of two subspecies or even two species.
基金supported by grants from National Natural Science Foundation of China(82272444,81972031,81972033)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022M722382)Tianjin Key Medical Discipline(Specialty)Construction Project(TJYXZDXK-032A)。
文摘Neural EGFL-like 2(NELL2)is a secreted protein known for its regulatory functions in the nervous and reproductive systems,yet its role in bone biology remains unexplored.In this study,we observed that NELL2 was diminished in the bone of aged and ovariectomized(OVX)mice,as well as in the serum of osteopenia and osteoporosis patients.In vitro loss-of-function and gain-offunction studies revealed that NELL2 facilitated osteoblast differentiation and impeded adipocyte differentiation from stromal progenitor cells.In vivo studies further demonstrated that the deletion of NELL2 in preosteoblasts resulted in decreased cancellous bone mass in mice.Mechanistically,NELL2 interacted with the FNI-type domain located at the C-terminus of Fibronectin 1(Fn1).Moreover,we found that NELL2 activated the focal adhesion kinase(FAK)/AKT signaling pathway through Fn1/integrinβ1(ITGB1),leading to the promotion of osteogenesis and the inhibition of adipogenesis.Notably,administration of NELL2-AAV was found to ameliorate bone loss in OVX mice.These findings underscore the significant role of NELL2 in osteoblast differentiation and bone homeostasis,suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for managing osteoporosis.
基金supported by grant funding from the Tarbiat Modares University and Mazandaran University
文摘Populus caspica Bornm.(section Leuce and subsection Albida), one of the most endangered endemic tree species in the Hyrcanian Forest in Iran, has numerous morphological characteristics that are closely similar to Populus alba; to clarify their taxonomic relatedness and genetic differentiation and thus inform conservation strategies, we used the noncoding regions of chloroplast DNA(cpDNA; trnL-F and trnH-psbA) and the internal transcribed spacer(ITS). Leaf samples were collected from six populations across northern Iran. cpDNA and ITS fragments were amplified by universal primers using the PCR technique and directed sequencing. The results showed that P. caspica is genetically differentiated from P.alba, and two ITS variants were detected within some P.caspica individuals. Conflicts between topologies from ITS and plastid genomes were observed. High differentiation of P. caspica from the other Populus species shown in this study confirmed the diverging taxonomic status of this endangered species. We recommend in situ conservation measures(e.g., protected areas) for at least several populations of this species, especially in the plain regions of the Hyrcanian forest.
文摘Ewing’s sarcoma is a pediatric tumor that mainly occurs in soft tissues and bones. Malignant characteristics of Ewing’s sarcoma are correlated with expression of EWS oncogene. We achieved knockdown of EWS expression using a plasmid vector encoding EWS short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to increase anti-tumor mechanisms of taxifolin (TFL), a new flavonoid, in human Ewing’s sarcoma cells in culture and animal models. Immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometric analysis showed high expression of EWS in human Ewing’s sarcoma SK-N-MC and RD-ES cell lines. EWS shRNA plus TFL inhibited 80% cell viability and caused the highest decreases in EWS expression at mRNA and protein levels in both cell lines. Knockdown of EWS expression induced morphological features of differentiation. EWS shRNA plus TFL caused more alterations in molecular markers of differentiation than either agent alone. EWS shRNA plus TFL caused the highest decreases in cell migration with inhibition of survival, angiogenic and invasive factors. Knockdown of EWS expression was associated with removal of DNA methylation from p53 promoter, promoting expression of p53, Puma, and Noxa. EWS shRNA plus TFL induced the highest amounts of apoptosis with activation of extrinsic and intrinsic pathways in both cell lines in culture. EWS shRNA plus TFL also inhibited growth of Ewing’s sarcoma tumors in animal models due to inhibition of differentiation inhibitors and angiogenic and invasive factors and also induction of activation of caspase-3 for apoptosis. Collectively, knockdown of EWS expression increased various anti-tumor mechanisms of TFL in human Ewing’s sarcoma in cell culture and animal models.
基金Supported by the Special funds for Construction of Modern Agricultural Technology System(CARS-04)Public Welfare Industry(Agriculture)Special Fund(201103002)
文摘Aphis glycines （Hemiptera： Aphididae） is considered as a cosmopolitan pest of cultivated soybean, major difficulties in its control measures may be due to its higher genetic diversity; however, the knowledge about population genetic diversity of this species is limited. This study aimed to represent the genetic differentiation among different geographic populations of soybean aphid in Northeast China. In order to investigate and assess the genetic diversity, genetic differentiation, molecular variance, population structure, ecological importance and evolutionary history of A. glycines, we sequenced a fragment of one protein-coding gene, the cytochrome c oxidase I/of mitochondrial DNA gene. The results showed that four haplotypes were defined among CO 11 gene of 180 sequences of soybean aphid in Northeast China including H1 shared by all the populations. Lower haplotype diversity （Hd=0.3590± 0.0420） and nucleotide diversity （Pi=0.0012±0.0002） were observed and high gene flow was detected in every two populations, while most of the variation （80.81%） arose from variability within A. glycines from individuals. Low genetic differentiation and high gene flow （Nm=2.106） indicated a high migration rate between the populations, which might reveal that gene flow in different geographic populations did not affect by geographical distance. The phylogenetic tree and the haplotype network ofA. glycines were obtained based on sequences of CO Ⅱ gene, there were no significant genealogical branches or clusters recognized in NJ tree, and no clear distribution, delineation of haplotypes were demonstrated in the haplotype network according to geographical location. This study rejected the vicariance hypothesis： geographic isolation could be a barrier and it restricted A. glycines gene flow among 10 populations.
基金HRFRI Basic Science Research Special Funds(2009HSYZX-YY-10)Heilongjiang Natural Science Fund(C201044)Heilongjiang Postdoctoral Sustentation Fund(LRB10-081)
文摘Masu salmon,Oncorhynchus masou masou,is one of the most valuable fishery species that has been introduced to China,though to date no studies on the genetic diversity and genetic relationship among hatchery populations has been performed with molecular markers.We undertook such a study and sampled 120 individuals from three hatchery stocks and analyzed 20 microsatellite loci.All loci were polymorphic and a total of 91 alleles were detected.A relatively low level of genetic diversity was revealed with effective number of allele of 3.1094,3.3299 and 3.1894 and expected heterozygosity of 0.6600,0.6648 and 0.6638 in the three stocks,respectively.Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were found due to heterozygote deficit.Accordingly,evidence of genetic bottlenecks were found in the three stocks.An individual assignment test demonstrated that 85%of individuals were correctly assigned into their original stocks.Pairwise Fst revealed that significant differentiation occurred between these three stocks.The results of the study indicated that disequilibrium of genetic structure and differentiation has occurred in all three stocks.This information collectively provides a basis for measures to avoid of loss of genetic diversity and introgression in Chinese aquaculture.
文摘We examined 50 Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains isolated from broiler chickens between January 2013 to March 2014 in order to evaluate the epidemiological prevalence of avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) in Jordan by multiplex PCR and random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) tests. The multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) which was used as tentative criteria of APEC targets 8 virulence associated genes;enteroaggregative toxin (astA), Type 1 fimbria adhesion (fimH), iron-repressible protein (irp2), P fimbriae (papC), aerobactin (iucD), temperature-sensitive hemagglutinin (tsh), vacuolating autotransporter toxin (vat), and colicin V plasmid operon (cva/cvi) genes. The number of detected genes could be used as a reliable index of their virulence. E. coli strains already typed as an APEC always harbor 5 to 8 genes, but non-APEC strains harbor less than 4 genes. Assuming the criteria of an APEC is possession of 5 or more virulence associated genes;we found that all 50 E. coli strains were classified as APEC strains. The RAPD analysis showed that the E. coli strains could be grouped into 35 of RAPD types by using these two different RAPD primer sets, RAPD analysis primer 4 5'AAGAGCCCGT5', and RAPD analysis primer 6 5'CCCGTCAGCA3'. The current study confirmed the endemic nature of APEC in broiler flocks in Jordan. It is essential that the biosecurity on poultry farms should be improved to prevent the introduction and dissemination of APEC and other agents. Furthermore, farmers need to be educated about the signs, lesions, and the importance of this agent.
基金Project supported by the Thousand Talents Program of Jiangxi Province,China(JXSQ2023201003)National Natural Science Foundation of China(42107254)+4 种基金Science and Technology Major Program of Ordos City(2022EEDSKJZDZX014-2)Technological Innovation Guidance Program of Jiangxi Province(20212BDH81029)Rare Earth Industry Fund(IAGM2020DB06)Selfdeployed Projects of Ganjiang Innovation Academy,Chinese Academy of Sciences(E055A01)the Key Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(ZDRW-CN-2021-3-3)。
文摘The rare earth elements(REEs)extraction by chemical leaching from ion-adsorption type rare earth ores(IAREO)has led to serious ecological and environmental risks.Conversely,demand for bioleaching is on the rise with the advantage of being environmental-friendly.As one of the organic acids produced by biological metabolism,citric acid was used to leach REEs and explore the performance and process.The results demonstrate that citric acid exhibits higher leaching efficiency(96.00%)for REEs at a relatively low concentration of 0.01 mol/L compared with(NH_(4))_(2)SO_(4)(84.29%,0.1 mol/L)and MgSO_(4)(83.99%,0.1 mol/L).Citric acid shows a preference for leaching heavy rare earth elements,with 99%leaching efficiency in IAREO,which shows higher capacity than(NH_(4))_(2)SO_(4)and MgSO_(4)(as inorganic leaching agents).Kinetic analysis indicates that the leaching process of REEs with citric acid is controlled by both the internal diffusion kinetics and chemical reaction kinetics,which is different from inorganic leaching agents.Visual Minteq calculations confirm that RE-Citrate is the main constituent of the extract solution in the leaching process of the IAREO,thereby enhancing the leaching efficiency of REEs from the IAREO.It suggests that citric acid may be used as a promising organic leaching agent for the environmentalfriendly extraction of REEs from IAREO.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation(NRF)S&F-Scarce Skills Postdoctoral Fellowship,No.120752(to AC)the Global Excellence and Stature,Fourth Industrial Revolution(GES 4.0)Postgraduate Scholarship(to MJR)the South African Research Chairs Initiative of the Department of Science and Technology and National Research Foundation of South Africa(SARChI/NRF-DST),No.146290(to DDS and HA).
文摘Photobiomodulation,originally used red and near-infrared lasers,can alter cellular metabolism.It has been demonstrated that the visible spectrum at 451-540 nm does not necessarily increase cell proliferation,near-infrared light promotes adipose stem cell proliferation and affects adipose stem cell migration,which is necessary for the cells homing to the site of injury.In this in vitro study,we explored the potential of adipose-derived stem cells to differentiate into neurons for future translational regenerative treatments in neurodegenerative disorders and brain injuries.We investigated the effects of various biological and chemical inducers on trans-differentiation and evaluated the impact of photobiomodulation using 825 nm near-infrared and 525 nm green laser light at 5 J/cm2.As adipose-derived stem cells can be used in autologous grafting and photobiomodulation has been shown to have biostimulatory effects.Our findings reveal that adipose-derived stem cells can indeed trans-differentiate into neuronal cells when exposed to inducers,with pre-induced cells exhibiting higher rates of proliferation and trans-differentiation compared with the control group.Interestingly,green laser light stimulation led to notable morphological changes indicative of enhanced trans-differentiation,while near-infrared photobiomodulation notably increased the expression of neuronal markers.Through biochemical analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays,we observed marked improvements in viability,proliferation,membrane permeability,and mitochondrial membrane potential,as well as increased protein levels of neuron-specific enolase and ciliary neurotrophic factor.Overall,our results demonstrate the efficacy of photobiomodulation in enhancing the trans-differentiation ability of adipose-derived stem cells,offering promising prospects for their use in regenerative medicine for neurodegenerative disorders and brain injuries.
