AIM:To highlight the importance of microRNA(miRNA)-21-5p in directing the phosphatase and tensin homolog(PTEN)gene to control the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin(PI3K/Akt/mTOR)...AIM:To highlight the importance of microRNA(miRNA)-21-5p in directing the phosphatase and tensin homolog(PTEN)gene to control the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin(PI3K/Akt/mTOR)pathway in retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)cells in humans subjected to photodamage.METHODS:Human adult RPE cell line-19(ARPE-19)was cultured in vitro and randomly divided into control,damage,overexpression,negative,and PI3K/Akt blocker groups to establish a photodamage model of ARPE-19 cells.The models were subjected to 24h of light exposure,after which the corresponding indices were detected.The cell counting kit-8 assay quantified cell viability,while flow cytometry determined apoptosis rates.The miRNA-21 mimics and miRNA mimic NC were transfected into ARPE-19 cells using a transient transfection technique.Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(SYBR Green)and Western blotting analyzed expression levels of miRNA-21-5p,PTEN,p-PI3K/PI3K,p-mTOR/mTOR,and p-Akt/Akt.Statistical analyses comprised one-way analysis of variance and the Student-Newman-Keuls test for multiple group comparisons.RESULTS:The photodamage group demonstrated reduced cell survival rates than the control group(P<0.01).The overexpression group exhibited higher cell survival rates than the injury group(P<0.01).The negative group showed no difference in viability(P>0.05).The PI3K/Akt blocker group demonstrated lower cell viability,compared with the overexpression group(P<0.01).CONCLUSION:miRNA-21-5p significantly increases ARPE-19 cell survival after photodamage and inhibits lightinduced ARPE-19 cell apoptosis,suggesting that it may play a protective role in RPE by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway while downregulating PTEN expression.展开更多
Novel green ceramic pigments Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶xCr^(3+)(x=0−0.2)were successfully synthesized via the conventional solid-state approach.The properties of the pigments were studied by XRD,FE-SEM,UV-Vis spectroscop...Novel green ceramic pigments Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶xCr^(3+)(x=0−0.2)were successfully synthesized via the conventional solid-state approach.The properties of the pigments were studied by XRD,FE-SEM,UV-Vis spectroscopy,XPS,and chromaticity analysis.The findings reveal that the trivalent chromium ions occupy the[Ga1O6]octahedral sites within the garnet lattice,and the relatively weak crystal field environment provided by the matrix endows the pigments with green characteristics.The samples prepared by calcination at 1400℃exhibit the most excellent performance in terms of phase purity,morphology,and color properties.The chromaticity values for the representative sample Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶0.05Cr^(3+)are L^(*)=81.16,a^(*)=−12.53,and b^(*)=12.71,and the color remains stable after the stability test.Moreover,when glazed with Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶xCr^(3+)(x=0−0.2)pigments,the smooth glaze surfaces exhibit vivid and saturated green tones,demonstrating their remarkable coloring capabilities and promising potential as a practical pigment for medium-temperature applications.This research underscores the vast application prospects of Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶Cr^(3+)as an innovative green ceramic pigment.展开更多
Introduction: Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the spine is a rare condition, with only a limited number of cases documented in the medical literature. In this study, we review imaging findings of two cases ...Introduction: Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the spine is a rare condition, with only a limited number of cases documented in the medical literature. In this study, we review imaging findings of two cases of PVNS arising in the spine. Case 1: A 52-year-old male presented with right thigh pain of unclear etiology. His condition subsequently deteriorated and he was referred to our hospital. MRI revealed a spinal tumor with high intensity on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) and iso-intensity on T2WI in the right L2/3 intervertebral foramen. The tumor exhibited heterogeneous enhancement on contrast-enhanced MRI. Computed tomography (CT) myelography showed the presence of an epidural tumor within the right L2/3 intervertebral foramen, situated externally to the spinal canal and compressing the dura mater. Notable scalloping was observed in the posterior margin of the L2 vertebral body on CT images. Case 2: A 78-year-old male presented with a complaint of muscle weakness of the left upper limb. His gait gradually deteriorated, which led to suspicion of cervical myelopathy. A tumor was observed on plain MRI and exhibited low to iso-intensity on T1WI and high intensity on T2WI. The tumor was in the left C7/T1 intervertebral segment and the spinal cord was compressed from the left side. CT showed destruction of the medial aspect of the left C7 vertebral arch. Conclusion: In spinal PVNS, the signal intensity on MRI is dependent on the timing of hemorrhage within the tumor, and there are no distinctive features. However, if an extradural tumor is suspected and CT shows bone erosion, scalloping or osteolytic changes, PVNS should be considered as a differential diagnosis.展开更多
Pigments are widely used as indices for estimation of phytoplankton biomass and composition,and many protocols have been developed to analyze pigments in phytoplankton.Different protocols were compared using four solv...Pigments are widely used as indices for estimation of phytoplankton biomass and composition,and many protocols have been developed to analyze pigments in phytoplankton.Different protocols were compared using four solvents(methanol,95%methanol,dimethylformamide,and 90%acetone)and two instruments(fluorometer and high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)coupled with diode array detector).Analysis of chlorophyll a(Chl a)with fluorometer could lead to over-or underestimation due to the interference from its derivatives in all probability.Among the four extractants,90%acetone had a high recovery for chlorophylls.In contrast,95%methanol was a poor extractant for chlorophylls due to the degradation of Chl a,especially in diatoms.The 95%methanol,however,had high extraction efficiencies for most diagnostic xanthophylls.Therefore,the selection of pigment analytical protocols should follow the specific purpose of phytoplankton study.In addition to fluorometry,an HPLC method with 90%acetone as extractant shall be a good choice for the analysis of Chl a to estimate phytoplankton biomass,especially for diatom-dominated samples,while an HPLC method with 95%methanol as extractant be more suitable to characterize different taxa in phytoplankton communities.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the mechanism of anticancer activity of a pigment OR3 from Streptomyces coelicolor in in vitro and in vivo metastatic breast cancer models and to characterize the pigment.Methods:The anticance...Objective:To investigate the mechanism of anticancer activity of a pigment OR3 from Streptomyces coelicolor in in vitro and in vivo metastatic breast cancer models and to characterize the pigment.Methods:The anticancer mechanism was analyzed in MDA-MB-231 cells using MTT,lactate dehydrogenase,caspase,DNA fragmentation,clonogenic,flow cytometry,Western blot,and scratch assays.The effects of OR3 on xenograft mouse models were evaluated by tumor volume measurement,hematological analysis,and histopathological observation.The characterization of OR3 was also performed using gas chromatograohy-mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.Results:OR3 exhibited potent cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 cells,with no observed effects on HEK-293 cells.Caspase-9 activation was detected in OR3-treated MDA-MB-231 cells.Flow cytometry showed a dose-dependent induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the sub-G_(1) and S phases.Furthermore,OR3 completely inhibited MDA-MB-231 cell migration and demonstrated anti-proliferative effects by downregulating the protein expression of KPNA2,XPO1,RAB5B,and p38 MAPK.In in vivo studies,OR3 was non-toxic to mice,inhibited tumor xenograft growth,and maintained normal hematological parameters and tissue architecture.Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated the presence of a prodigiosin-like compound,while gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified additional compounds in OR3.Conclusions:Our findings validate OR3 pigment as a promising compound for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer,warranting further studies.展开更多
AIM:To investigate whether interleukin-17A(IL-17A)gets involved in the mechanisms of inflammation-related retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cells injury and its significance in age-related macular degeneration(AMD).MRTHO...AIM:To investigate whether interleukin-17A(IL-17A)gets involved in the mechanisms of inflammation-related retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cells injury and its significance in age-related macular degeneration(AMD).MRTHODS:A sodium iodate(NaIO3)mouse model as well as IL-17A-/-mice were established.The effects of inflammatory cytokines in RPE cells and retinal microglia before and after NaIO3 modeling in vivo and in vitro,were investigated using immunofluorescence,immunoprotein blotting,and quantitative real-time fluorescence polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),respectively.Interventions using recombinant IL-17A protein(rIL-17A)or IL-17A neutralizing antibody(IL-17A NAb)were used to observe the subsequent differences in fundus,fundus photography and optical coherence tomography(OCT),cell viability,and expression of oxidative stress-related markers before and after modeling,and to screen for key signaling pathways.RESULTS:In the scenario of NaIO3 stimulation,RPE cells obviously tended to degenerate.Simultaneously proliferation and activation of retinal microglia was confirmed in NaIO3-stimulated mice,whereas such effects induced by NaIO3 were significantly ameliorated with IL-17A NAb intervention or in IL-17A-/-mice.In addition,IL-17A promoted the proliferation and activation of microglia as well as oxidative damage and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines alongside NaIO3-induced damage in RPE cells in vivo and ex vivo.Meanwhile,the extracellular signalregulated kinase(ERK)signaling pathway was shown to be participated in the regulation of NaIO3-induced RPE cells injury mediated by IL-17A in vivo and ex vivo,as IL-17A induced inflammatory cytokines release in the NaIO3 model was alleviated after blocking the ERK pathway.CONCLUSION:IL-17A probably promotes the NaIO3-induced RPE cells injury through exacerbating inflammation in terms of retinal microglia activation and inflammatory cytokines release via ERK signaling pathway.Inhibition of IL-17A may be a new potential target for dry AMD treatment.展开更多
Macular pigment(MP)is a crucial pigment in the macular region.It plays an important role in filtering blue light,and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.Macular pigment optical density(MPOD)is a key ...Macular pigment(MP)is a crucial pigment in the macular region.It plays an important role in filtering blue light,and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.Macular pigment optical density(MPOD)is a key indicator for assessing the density of MP in the macular area and is closely associated with eye diseases,including age-related macular degeneration,diabetic retinopathy,and glaucoma.This review aims to explore the clinical significance of MPOD and its research value in ophthalmology and other medical fields.It summarizes the current MPOD measurement techniques,categorizing them into two main types(in vivo and in vitro),and discusses their respective advantages and limitations.Additionally,given the advancements in artificial intelligence(AI)and deep-learning technologies that offer new opportunities for improving MPOD assessment,this review analyzes the significant potential and future prospects of AI-based fundus image analysis in MPOD measurement.The goal of AI-based analysis is to provide faster and more accurate detection methods,thereby promoting further research and new clinical applications of MPOD in the field of ophthalmology.展开更多
Retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)dysfunction is involved in the advancement of numerous degenerative retinal illnesses,such as age-related macular degeneration and hereditary retinal abnormalities.Transplantation of RPE...Retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)dysfunction is involved in the advancement of numerous degenerative retinal illnesses,such as age-related macular degeneration and hereditary retinal abnormalities.Transplantation of RPE produced from stem cells has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to restore retinal function and prevent vision loss.However,other obstacles impede its clinical application,including immunological rejection,cell viability,functional integration,and the necessity for consistent differentiation techniques.This review offers a thorough examination of the molecular processes regulating RPE integrity,investigates recent progress in stem cell-derived RPE therapeutics,and addresses significant challenges to their broad implementation.Furthermore,we emphasize prospective avenues intended to enhance the safety,efficacy,and enduring success of RPE transplantation in clinical environments.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the role of RNA methylation in retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)cells in age-related macular degeneration(AMD).METHODS:RNA methylation-related gene expression profiles of AMD patient and normal contro...AIM:To investigate the role of RNA methylation in retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)cells in age-related macular degeneration(AMD).METHODS:RNA methylation-related gene expression profiles of AMD patient and normal control retinal pigment epithelium were evaluated by single-cell transcriptome from 34 samples(11 from normal donors and 23 from AMD patients).The causal relationship between RNA methylation dysfunction and AMD was analyzed by summary-data-based Mendelian randomization(SMR)using AMD GWAS data and multi-omics quantitative trait loci(QTL),including expression QTLs(eQTLs),protein QTLs(pQTLs),splicing QTLs(sQTLs),and m^(6)A-QTLs(mQTLs).Additionally,machine learning models were applied to validate the causal association between RNA methylation dysfunction and AMD using Bulk RNA sequencing data from 31 normal donors and 37 AMD patients.RESULTS:The single-cell transcriptome data analysis revealed massive dysregulation of RNA methylationrelated methylationrelated gene expression in the RPE of AMD patients.SMR revealed causal associations between key RNA methylation regulators(METTL3,NSUN6,and MRM1,etc.)and AMD onset.Machine learning models further validated these findings and demonstrated a high accuracy of AMD risk prediction by using the above-identified RNA methylationrelated genes:METTL3,NSUN6,and MRM1.Furthermore,METTL3 and NSUN6 were found to have a protective effect,while MRM1 was associated with an increased risk of AMD.CONCLUSION:The results reveal the implication of dysregulation of RNA methylation-related gene expression in the RPE of AMD patients and further demonstrated a causal association between RNA methylation-related genes(METTL3,NSUN6,and MRM1)and AMD.These findings highlight the importance of RNA methylation in the pathogenesis of AMD and offer potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AMD management.展开更多
The giant triton snail Charonia tritonis is a marine large carnivorous gastropoda inhabiting in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.Their splendid and highly organized Charonia tritonis shells are attractive;however few studies ha...The giant triton snail Charonia tritonis is a marine large carnivorous gastropoda inhabiting in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.Their splendid and highly organized Charonia tritonis shells are attractive;however few studies have been conducted on shell ultra-structure and pigmentation.The arrangements of crossed-lamellar structures were distinctive for the giant triton snail shell,showing three layers of mineral structures in the cross-section.The 1st-order and 2nd-order lamellae of the shell were around 10-20μm and the crystals in outer layers intersected at right angles in this species.They were identified as aragonite crystals by Raman scattering,and granular organic matrix were attached to the aragonite mineral phase closely.Furthermore,the dominant Raman spectra from polyene pigments in the shell were characterized at wavenumbers of 1123 cm^(-1)and 1504 cm^(-1),assigned to stretching vibrations of carbon-carbon single(C-C)and double(C=C)bonds,and the polyene chain was confirmed with 11-12 C-C bonds and 12-13 conju-gated C=C bonds.The research will lay a foundation for exploring the relationship between the calcareous shell and the formation of shell color in the giant triton snail.展开更多
The dark blue pigment(DBP)is a health ingredient from Vaccinium bracteatum Thunb.leaves used as a functional food supplement.However,the details of transepithelial absorption on the intestinal epithelial cells are bar...The dark blue pigment(DBP)is a health ingredient from Vaccinium bracteatum Thunb.leaves used as a functional food supplement.However,the details of transepithelial absorption on the intestinal epithelial cells are barely understood.This study aimed to clarify the absorption properties of DBP in the Caco-2 cell monolayer model and evaluate the effect on the endo-metabolism and barrier function of Caco-2 cells.The results showed that the DBP did not show the dose-dependent toxic effect to Caco-2 cells between 0.25 and 1.5 mg/mL,which did not cause disorder in the normal cell metabolism and absorption activity.The Caco-2 cell monolayer model could absorb DBP by passive and active transport,and the absorptive pattern was dosedependent when the concentration was more than 0.25 mg/mL.During DBP absorption,an increase in m RNA and protein expressions of glucose transporters demonstrated that the glucose transporters were the potential transporter of DBP.But the glucose transport amounts were significantly lowered after 30 min of DBP treatment,indicating that DBP owned the inhibitory effect on glucose transportation.Furthermore,DBP also owned protective effects on the barrier function of intestinal epithelial cells.展开更多
BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy(DR)is one of the major eye diseases contributing to blindness worldwide.Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress in retinal cells is a key factor leading to retinal inflammation and vascular lea...BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy(DR)is one of the major eye diseases contributing to blindness worldwide.Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress in retinal cells is a key factor leading to retinal inflammation and vascular leakage in DR,but its mechanism is still unclear.AIM To investigate the potential mechanism of LEF1 and related RNAs in DR.METHODS ARPE-19 cells were exposed to high levels of glucose for 24 hours to simulate a diabetic environment.Intraperitoneally injected streptozotocin was used to induce the rat model of DR.The expression levels of genes and related proteins were measured by RT-qPCR and Western blotting;lnc-MGC and miR-495-3p were detected by fluorescent in situ hybridization;CCK-8 and TUNEL assays were used to detect cell viability and apoptosis;enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect inflammatory factors;dual-luciferase gene assays were used to verify the targeting relationship;and the retina was observed by HE staining.RESULTS LEF1 and lnc-MGC have binding sites,and lnc-MGC can regulate the miR-495-3p/GRP78 molecular axis.In high glucose-treated cells,inflammation was aggravated,the intracellular reactive oxygen species concentration was increased,cell viability was reduced,apoptosis was increased,the ER response was intensified,and ferroptosis was increased.As an ER molecular chaperone,GRP78 regulates the ER and ferroptosis under the targeting of miR-495-3p,whereas inhibiting LEF1 can further downregulate the expression of lnc-MGC,increase the level of miR-495-3p,and sequentially regulate the level of GRP78 to alleviate the occurrence and development of DR.Animal experiments indicated that the knockdown of LEF1 can affect the lnc-MGC/miR-495-3p/GRP78 signaling axis to restrain the progression of DR.CONCLUSION LEF1 knockdown can regulate the miR-495-3p/GRP78 molecular axis through lnc-MGC,which affects ER stress and restrains the progression of DR and ferroptosis in retinal pigment epithelial cells.展开更多
AIM:To explore the effects of hepatocyte growth factor(HGF)on retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cell behaviors.METHODS:The human adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19(ARPE-19)were treated by HGF or mesenchymalepi...AIM:To explore the effects of hepatocyte growth factor(HGF)on retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cell behaviors.METHODS:The human adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19(ARPE-19)were treated by HGF or mesenchymalepithelial transition factor(MET)inhibitor SU11274 in vitro.Cell viability was detected by a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay.Cell proliferation and motility was detected by a bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assay and a wound healing assay,respectively.The expression levels of MET,phosphorylated MET,protein kinase B(AKT),and phosphorylated AKT proteins were determined by Western blot assay.The MET and phosphorylated MET proteins were also determined by immunofluorescence assay.RESULTS:HGF increased ARPE-19 cells’viability,proliferation and migration,and induced an increase of phosphorylated MET and phosphorylated AKT proteins.SU11274 significantly reduced cell viability,proliferation,and migration and decreased the expression of MET and AKT proteins.SU11274 suppressed HGF-induced increase of viability,proliferation,and migration in ARPE-19 cells.Additionally,SU11274 also blocked HGF-induced phosphorylation of MET and AKT proteins.CONCLUSION:HGF enhances cellular viability,proliferation,and migration in RPE cells through the MET/AKT signaling pathway,whereas this enhancement is suppressed by the MET inhibitor SU11274.HGF-induced MET/AKT signaling might be a vital contributor of RPE cells survival.展开更多
BACKGROUND The incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer(CRC)are among the highest in the world,and its occurrence and development are closely related to tumor neovascularization.When the balance between pigment ep...BACKGROUND The incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer(CRC)are among the highest in the world,and its occurrence and development are closely related to tumor neovascularization.When the balance between pigment epithelium-derived factors(PEDF)that inhibit angiogenesis and vascular endothelial growth factors(VEGF)that stimulate angiogenesis is broken,angiogenesis is out of control,resulting in tumor development.Therefore,it is very necessary to find more therapeutic targets for CRC for early intervention and later treatment.AIM To investigate the expression and significance of PEDF,VEGF,and CD31-stained microvessel density values(CD31-MVD)in normal colorectal mucosa,adenoma,and CRC.METHODS In this case-control study,we collected archived wax blocks of specimens from the Digestive Endoscopy Center and the General Surgery Department of Chengdu Second People's Hospital from April 2022 to October 2022.Fifty cases of specimen wax blocks were selected as normal intestinal mucosa confirmed by electronic colonoscopy and concurrent biopsy(normal control group),50 cases of specimen wax blocks were selected as colorectal adenoma confirmed by electronic colonoscopy and pathological biopsy(adenoma group),and 50 cases of specimen wax blocks were selected as CRC confirmed by postoperative pathological biopsy after inpatient operation of general surgery(CRC group).An immunohistochemical staining experiment was carried out to detect PEDF and VEGF expression in three groups of specimens,analyze their differences,study the relationship between the two and clinicopathological factors in CRC group,record CD31-MVD in the three groups,and analyze the correlation of PEDF,VEGF,and CD31-MVD in the colorectal adenoma group and the CRC group.The F test or adjusted F test is used to analyze measurement data statistically.Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test was used between groups for ranked data.The chi-square test,adjusted chi-square test,or Fisher's exact test were used to compare the rates between groups.All differences between groups were compared using the Bonferroni method for multiple comparisons.Spearman correlation analysis was used to test the correlation of the data.The test level(α)was 0.05,and a two-sided P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS The positive expression rate and expression intensity of PEDF were gradually decreased in the normal control group,adenoma group,and CRC group(100%vs 78%vs 50%,χ^(2)=34.430,P<0.001;++~++vs+~++vs-~+,H=94.059,P<0.001),while VEGF increased gradually(0%vs 68%vs 96%,χ^(2)=98.35,P<0.001;-vs-~+vs++~+++,H=107.734,P<0.001).In the CRC group,the positive expression rate of PEDF decreased with the increase of differen-tiation degree,invasion depth,lymph node metastasis,distant metastasis,and TNM stage(χ^(2)=20.513,4.160,5.128,6.349,5.128,P<0.05);the high expression rate of VEGF was the opposite(χ^(2)=10.317,13.134,17.643,21.844,17.643,P<0.05).In the colorectal adenoma group,the expression intensity of PEDF correlated negatively with CD31-MVD(r=-0.601,P<0.001),whereas VEGF was not significantly different(r=0.258,P=0.07).In the CRC group,the expression intensity of PEDF correlated negatively with the expression intensity of CD31-MVD and VEGF(r=-0.297,P<0.05;r=-0.548,P<0.05),while VEGF expression intensity was positively related to CD31-MVD(r=0.421,P=0.002).CONCLUSION It is possible that PEDF can be used as a new treatment and prevention target for CRC by upregulating the expression of PEDF while inhibiting the expression of VEGF.展开更多
Promoting more floret primordia within a spike to acquire fertile potential during the differentiation and pre-dimorphism phases is critical for increasing the number of fertile florets per spike(NFFs).However,it is y...Promoting more floret primordia within a spike to acquire fertile potential during the differentiation and pre-dimorphism phases is critical for increasing the number of fertile florets per spike(NFFs).However,it is yet unknown the physiological mechanism regulating the complex and dynamic process.This study aimed to clarify how intra-spike hormones,pigments,and assimilates coordinate with each other to regulate spike morphology and then floret primordia development.A two-year field experiment was conducted with two winter wheat genotypes:N50(big-spike with greater NFFs)and SM22(mediumspike with fewer NFFs).We monitored high temporal and spatial-resolution changes in the number and morphology of floret primordia within a spike,as well as in intra-spike hormones,pigments,and assimilates.Our results revealed that the big-spike genotype had more NFFs than the medium-spike genotype,not only because they had more spikelets,but also because they had greater NFFs mainly at central spikelets.More floret primordia at central spikelets had sufficient time to develop and acquire fertile potential during the differentiation phase(167-176 d after sowing,DAS)and the pre-dimorphism phase(179 DAS)for the big-spike genotype than the medium-spike genotype.Floret primordia with fertile morphology during the pre-dimorphism phase always developed into fertile florets during the dimorphism phase.Those early-developed floret primordia most proximal and intermediate to the rachis in the big-spike genotype developed faster than the medium-spike genotype.Correspondingly,the spike dry matter and pigments(chlorophyll a,chlorophyll b,carotene,and carotenoids)content during 170-182 DAS,auxin(IAA)and cytokinin(CTK)content on 167 DAS were significantly higher in the big-spike genotype than in the medium-spike genotype,while jasmonic acid(JA)content was significantly lower in the big-spike genotype compared to the medium-spike genotype during 167-182 DAS.Since the significant differences in intra-spike hormone content of the two genotypes appear earlier than those in dry matter and pigments,we propose a possible model that helped the N50 genotype(big-spike)to form more fertile florets,taking the intra-spike hormone content as a signaling molecule induced assimilates and pigments synthesis,which accelerated the development of more floret primordia during the differentiation phase and then acquired fertile potential during the pre-dimorphism phase,finally improved the NFFs.Our high temporal and spatial-resolution analysis provides an accurate time window for precision cultivation and effective physiological breeding to improve the number of fertile florets in wheat.展开更多
AIM:To explore the effect of epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)inhibition by erlotinib and EGFR siRNA on epidermal growth factor(EGF)-induced activation of retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cells.METHODS:Human RPE ce...AIM:To explore the effect of epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)inhibition by erlotinib and EGFR siRNA on epidermal growth factor(EGF)-induced activation of retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cells.METHODS:Human RPE cell line(ARPE-19 cells)was activated by 100 ng/mL EGF.Erlotinib and EGFR siRNA were used to intervene EGF treatment.Cellular viability,proliferation,and migration were detected by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium(MTT)assay,bromodeoxyuridine(BrdU)staining assay and wound healing assay,respectively.EGFR/protein kinase B(AKT)pathway proteins and N-cadherin,α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA),and vimentin were tested by Western blot assay.EGFR was also determined by immunofluorescence staining.RESULTS:EGF treatment for 24h induced a significant increase of ARPE-19 cells’viability,proliferation and migration,phosphorylation of EGFR/AKT proteins,and decreased total EGFR expression.Erlotinib suppressed ARPE-19 cells’viability,proliferation and migration through down regulating total EGFR and AKT protein expressions.Erlotinib also inhibited EGF-induced an increase of proliferative and migrative ability in ARPE-19 cells and clearly suppressed EGF-induced EGFR/AKT proteins phosphorylation and decreased expression of N-cadherin,α-SMA,and vimentin proteins.Similarly,EGFR inhibition by EGFR siRNA significantly affected EGF-induced an increase of cell proliferation,viability,and migration,phosphorylation of EGFR/AKT proteins,and up-regulation of N-cadherin,α-SMA,and vimentin proteins.CONCLUSION:Erlotinib and EGFR-knockdown suppress EGF-induced cell viability,proliferation,and migration via EGFR/AKT pathway in RPE cells.EGFR inhibition may be a possible therapeutic approach for proliferative vitreoretinopathy(PVR).展开更多
The silk fabrics were matching dyed with three natural edible pigments(red rice red,ginger yellow and gardenia blue).By investigating the dyeing rates and lifting properties of these pigments,it was observed that thei...The silk fabrics were matching dyed with three natural edible pigments(red rice red,ginger yellow and gardenia blue).By investigating the dyeing rates and lifting properties of these pigments,it was observed that their compatibilities were excellent in the dyeing process:dye dosage 2.5%(omf),mordant alum dosage 2.0%(omf),dyeing temperature 80℃and dyeing time 40 min.The silk fabrics dyed with secondary colors exhibited vibrant and vivid color owing to the remarkable lightness and chroma of ginger yellow.However,gardenia blue exhibited multiple absorption peaks in the visible light range,resulting in significantly lower lightness and chroma for the silk fabrics dyed with tertiary colors,thus making it suitable only for matte-colored fabrics with low chroma levels.In addition,the silk fabrics dyed with these three pigments had a color fastness that exceeded grade 3 in resistance to perspiration,soap washing and light exposure,indicating acceptable wearing properties.The dyeing process described in this research exhibited a wide range of potential applications in matching dyeing of protein-based textiles with natural colorants.展开更多
The growth and nutrients of photosynthetic organisms are significantly influenced by light spectra,yet this relationship is not well-understood in microalgae.Herein,we studied three microalgae species—Chaetoceros sp....The growth and nutrients of photosynthetic organisms are significantly influenced by light spectra,yet this relationship is not well-understood in microalgae.Herein,we studied three microalgae species—Chaetoceros sp.,Isochrysis galbana,and Tetraselmis helgolandica—distinguished by their pigments.We exposed them to seven light spectra,including white(control),red,orange,green,blue,violet,and full spectrum.The results showed distinct responses in the three microalgae to varying light spectra.Optimal growth occurred under blue,violet,and white lights for Chaetoceros sp.,Ⅰ.galbana,and T.helgolandica,respectively,while orange,red,and green lights inhibited growth.Notably,green light significantly increased the protein content in all three microalgae.Carbohydrate and lipid content exhibited species-specific responses:the highest carbohydrate accumulation was achieved for Chaetoceros sp.under red light(73.27±1.45 mg/g),Ⅰ.galbana under orange light(122.89±12.28 mg/g),and T.helgolandica under blue light(43.62±2.79 mg/g).Meanwhile,the highest lipid content was obtained under violet light for Chaetoceros sp.andⅠ.galbana(250.80±7.27 and 320.23±5.75 mg/g,respectively),and under green light for T.helgolandica(255.12±31.19 mg/g).Furthermore,violet light greatly promoted the accumulation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in all three microalgae.Specific pigment compositions also responded to variations in light spectra.For instance,the diadinoxanthin content in Chaetoceros sp.increased significantly under orange light(194.77±13.78μg/g),while chlorophyll-a content inⅠ.galbana increased significantly under violet and blue lights((88.84±33.46)-(141.38±1.64)μg/g),and in T.helgolandica under red,green,and blue lights((1485.04±190.46)-(1886.60±387.42)μg/g).Additionally,Ⅰ.galbana exhibited the highest fucoxanthin,diadinoxanthin,andβ-carotene contents under white light.In conclusion,our results highlight the species-specific impact of light spectra on microalgae growth and nutrients,providing valuable guidance for flexible application of light spectra in microalgal production to enhance yields and target specific nutrients.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the proliferation regulatory effect of cone-rod homeobox(CRX)in retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)and retinoblastoma(RB)cells to explore the potential application and side effect(oncogenic potential)of...AIM:To investigate the proliferation regulatory effect of cone-rod homeobox(CRX)in retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)and retinoblastoma(RB)cells to explore the potential application and side effect(oncogenic potential)of CRXbased gene therapy in RPE-based retinopathies.METHODS:Adult human retinal pigment epithelial(ARPE)-19 and human retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)-1 cells and Y79 RB cell were used in the study.Genetic manipulation was performed by lentivirus-based technology.The cell proliferation was determined by a CellTiter-Glo Reagent.The mRNA and protein levels were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot assay.The transcriptional activity of the promoter was determined by luciferase reporter gene assay.The bindings between CRX and transcription factor 7(TCF7)promoter as well as TCF7 and the promoters of TCF7 target genes were examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChIP)assay.The transcription of the TCF7 was determined by a modified nuclear run-on assay.RESULTS:CRX overexpression and knockdown significantly increased(n=3,P<0.05 in all the cells)and decreased(n=3,P<0.01 in all the cells)the proliferation of RPE and RB cells.CRX overexpression and knockdown significantly increased and deceased the mRNA levels of Wnt signaling target genes[including MYC proto-oncogene(MYC),JUN,FOS like 1(FOSL1),CCND1,cyclin D2(CCND2),cyclin D3(CCND3),cellular communication network factor 4(CCN4),peroxisome proliferator activated receptor delta(PPARD),and matrix metallopeptidase 7(MMP7)]and the luciferase activity driven by the Wnt signaling transcription factor(TCF7).TCF7 overexpression and knockdown significantly increased and decreased the proliferation of RPE and RB cells and depletion of TCF7 significantly abolished the stimulatory effect of CRX on the proliferation of RPE and RB cells.CRX overexpression and knockdown significantly increased and decreased the mRNA level of TCF7 and the promoter of TCF7 was significantly immunoprecipitated by CRX antibody.CONCLUSION:CRX transcriptionally activates TCF7 to promote the proliferation of RPE and RB cells in vitro.CRX is a potential target for RPE-based regenerative medicine.The potential risk of this strategy,tumorigenic potential,should be considered.展开更多
Cotton has enormous economic potential,providing high-quality protein,oil,and fibre.But the comprehensive utilization of cottonseed is limited by the presence of pigment gland and its inclusion.Pigment gland is a comm...Cotton has enormous economic potential,providing high-quality protein,oil,and fibre.But the comprehensive utilization of cottonseed is limited by the presence of pigment gland and its inclusion.Pigment gland is a common characteristic of Gossypium genus and its relatives,appearing as visible dark opaque dots in most tissues and organs of cotton plants.Secondary metabolites,such as gossypol,synthesized and stored in the cavities of pigment glands act as natural phytoalexins,but are toxic to humans and other monogastric animals.However,only a few cotton genes have been identified as being associated with pigment gland morphogenesis to date,and the developmental processes and regulatory mechanism involved in pigment gland formation remain largely unclear.Here,the research progress on the process of pigment gland morphogenesis and the genetic basis of cotton pigment glands is reviewed,for providing a theoretical basis for cultivating cotton with the ideal pigment gland trait.展开更多
文摘AIM:To highlight the importance of microRNA(miRNA)-21-5p in directing the phosphatase and tensin homolog(PTEN)gene to control the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin(PI3K/Akt/mTOR)pathway in retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)cells in humans subjected to photodamage.METHODS:Human adult RPE cell line-19(ARPE-19)was cultured in vitro and randomly divided into control,damage,overexpression,negative,and PI3K/Akt blocker groups to establish a photodamage model of ARPE-19 cells.The models were subjected to 24h of light exposure,after which the corresponding indices were detected.The cell counting kit-8 assay quantified cell viability,while flow cytometry determined apoptosis rates.The miRNA-21 mimics and miRNA mimic NC were transfected into ARPE-19 cells using a transient transfection technique.Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(SYBR Green)and Western blotting analyzed expression levels of miRNA-21-5p,PTEN,p-PI3K/PI3K,p-mTOR/mTOR,and p-Akt/Akt.Statistical analyses comprised one-way analysis of variance and the Student-Newman-Keuls test for multiple group comparisons.RESULTS:The photodamage group demonstrated reduced cell survival rates than the control group(P<0.01).The overexpression group exhibited higher cell survival rates than the injury group(P<0.01).The negative group showed no difference in viability(P>0.05).The PI3K/Akt blocker group demonstrated lower cell viability,compared with the overexpression group(P<0.01).CONCLUSION:miRNA-21-5p significantly increases ARPE-19 cell survival after photodamage and inhibits lightinduced ARPE-19 cell apoptosis,suggesting that it may play a protective role in RPE by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway while downregulating PTEN expression.
文摘Novel green ceramic pigments Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶xCr^(3+)(x=0−0.2)were successfully synthesized via the conventional solid-state approach.The properties of the pigments were studied by XRD,FE-SEM,UV-Vis spectroscopy,XPS,and chromaticity analysis.The findings reveal that the trivalent chromium ions occupy the[Ga1O6]octahedral sites within the garnet lattice,and the relatively weak crystal field environment provided by the matrix endows the pigments with green characteristics.The samples prepared by calcination at 1400℃exhibit the most excellent performance in terms of phase purity,morphology,and color properties.The chromaticity values for the representative sample Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶0.05Cr^(3+)are L^(*)=81.16,a^(*)=−12.53,and b^(*)=12.71,and the color remains stable after the stability test.Moreover,when glazed with Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶xCr^(3+)(x=0−0.2)pigments,the smooth glaze surfaces exhibit vivid and saturated green tones,demonstrating their remarkable coloring capabilities and promising potential as a practical pigment for medium-temperature applications.This research underscores the vast application prospects of Y_(3)Ga_(3)MgSiO_(12)∶Cr^(3+)as an innovative green ceramic pigment.
文摘Introduction: Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) of the spine is a rare condition, with only a limited number of cases documented in the medical literature. In this study, we review imaging findings of two cases of PVNS arising in the spine. Case 1: A 52-year-old male presented with right thigh pain of unclear etiology. His condition subsequently deteriorated and he was referred to our hospital. MRI revealed a spinal tumor with high intensity on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) and iso-intensity on T2WI in the right L2/3 intervertebral foramen. The tumor exhibited heterogeneous enhancement on contrast-enhanced MRI. Computed tomography (CT) myelography showed the presence of an epidural tumor within the right L2/3 intervertebral foramen, situated externally to the spinal canal and compressing the dura mater. Notable scalloping was observed in the posterior margin of the L2 vertebral body on CT images. Case 2: A 78-year-old male presented with a complaint of muscle weakness of the left upper limb. His gait gradually deteriorated, which led to suspicion of cervical myelopathy. A tumor was observed on plain MRI and exhibited low to iso-intensity on T1WI and high intensity on T2WI. The tumor was in the left C7/T1 intervertebral segment and the spinal cord was compressed from the left side. CT showed destruction of the medial aspect of the left C7 vertebral arch. Conclusion: In spinal PVNS, the signal intensity on MRI is dependent on the timing of hemorrhage within the tumor, and there are no distinctive features. However, if an extradural tumor is suspected and CT shows bone erosion, scalloping or osteolytic changes, PVNS should be considered as a differential diagnosis.
基金Supported by the Joint Project of Guangxi Provincial and China National Natural Science Foundations(Nos.U 20 A 20104,42306152)the Taishan Scholars Program to Prof.Rencheng YU。
文摘Pigments are widely used as indices for estimation of phytoplankton biomass and composition,and many protocols have been developed to analyze pigments in phytoplankton.Different protocols were compared using four solvents(methanol,95%methanol,dimethylformamide,and 90%acetone)and two instruments(fluorometer and high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)coupled with diode array detector).Analysis of chlorophyll a(Chl a)with fluorometer could lead to over-or underestimation due to the interference from its derivatives in all probability.Among the four extractants,90%acetone had a high recovery for chlorophylls.In contrast,95%methanol was a poor extractant for chlorophylls due to the degradation of Chl a,especially in diatoms.The 95%methanol,however,had high extraction efficiencies for most diagnostic xanthophylls.Therefore,the selection of pigment analytical protocols should follow the specific purpose of phytoplankton study.In addition to fluorometry,an HPLC method with 90%acetone as extractant shall be a good choice for the analysis of Chl a to estimate phytoplankton biomass,especially for diatom-dominated samples,while an HPLC method with 95%methanol as extractant be more suitable to characterize different taxa in phytoplankton communities.
文摘Objective:To investigate the mechanism of anticancer activity of a pigment OR3 from Streptomyces coelicolor in in vitro and in vivo metastatic breast cancer models and to characterize the pigment.Methods:The anticancer mechanism was analyzed in MDA-MB-231 cells using MTT,lactate dehydrogenase,caspase,DNA fragmentation,clonogenic,flow cytometry,Western blot,and scratch assays.The effects of OR3 on xenograft mouse models were evaluated by tumor volume measurement,hematological analysis,and histopathological observation.The characterization of OR3 was also performed using gas chromatograohy-mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.Results:OR3 exhibited potent cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 cells,with no observed effects on HEK-293 cells.Caspase-9 activation was detected in OR3-treated MDA-MB-231 cells.Flow cytometry showed a dose-dependent induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the sub-G_(1) and S phases.Furthermore,OR3 completely inhibited MDA-MB-231 cell migration and demonstrated anti-proliferative effects by downregulating the protein expression of KPNA2,XPO1,RAB5B,and p38 MAPK.In in vivo studies,OR3 was non-toxic to mice,inhibited tumor xenograft growth,and maintained normal hematological parameters and tissue architecture.Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated the presence of a prodigiosin-like compound,while gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified additional compounds in OR3.Conclusions:Our findings validate OR3 pigment as a promising compound for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer,warranting further studies.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82171076,No.U22A20311,No.82388101)the National Key R&D Program(No.2022YFC2502800)Shanghai Municipal Education Commission(No.2023KJ05-67).
文摘AIM:To investigate whether interleukin-17A(IL-17A)gets involved in the mechanisms of inflammation-related retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cells injury and its significance in age-related macular degeneration(AMD).MRTHODS:A sodium iodate(NaIO3)mouse model as well as IL-17A-/-mice were established.The effects of inflammatory cytokines in RPE cells and retinal microglia before and after NaIO3 modeling in vivo and in vitro,were investigated using immunofluorescence,immunoprotein blotting,and quantitative real-time fluorescence polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),respectively.Interventions using recombinant IL-17A protein(rIL-17A)or IL-17A neutralizing antibody(IL-17A NAb)were used to observe the subsequent differences in fundus,fundus photography and optical coherence tomography(OCT),cell viability,and expression of oxidative stress-related markers before and after modeling,and to screen for key signaling pathways.RESULTS:In the scenario of NaIO3 stimulation,RPE cells obviously tended to degenerate.Simultaneously proliferation and activation of retinal microglia was confirmed in NaIO3-stimulated mice,whereas such effects induced by NaIO3 were significantly ameliorated with IL-17A NAb intervention or in IL-17A-/-mice.In addition,IL-17A promoted the proliferation and activation of microglia as well as oxidative damage and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines alongside NaIO3-induced damage in RPE cells in vivo and ex vivo.Meanwhile,the extracellular signalregulated kinase(ERK)signaling pathway was shown to be participated in the regulation of NaIO3-induced RPE cells injury mediated by IL-17A in vivo and ex vivo,as IL-17A induced inflammatory cytokines release in the NaIO3 model was alleviated after blocking the ERK pathway.CONCLUSION:IL-17A probably promotes the NaIO3-induced RPE cells injury through exacerbating inflammation in terms of retinal microglia activation and inflammatory cytokines release via ERK signaling pathway.Inhibition of IL-17A may be a new potential target for dry AMD treatment.
基金Supported by Ganzhou Science and Technology Bureau“Science and Technology+Healthcare”Leading Talent Project(No.GZ2024YLJ020)Jiangxi Provincial Department of Science and Technology Key Research and Development Plan Projects(No.20203BBGL73133)Jiangxi Province“ShuangQian Plan”Innovation Talents Project(No.S2021CQKJ2297).
文摘Macular pigment(MP)is a crucial pigment in the macular region.It plays an important role in filtering blue light,and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.Macular pigment optical density(MPOD)is a key indicator for assessing the density of MP in the macular area and is closely associated with eye diseases,including age-related macular degeneration,diabetic retinopathy,and glaucoma.This review aims to explore the clinical significance of MPOD and its research value in ophthalmology and other medical fields.It summarizes the current MPOD measurement techniques,categorizing them into two main types(in vivo and in vitro),and discusses their respective advantages and limitations.Additionally,given the advancements in artificial intelligence(AI)and deep-learning technologies that offer new opportunities for improving MPOD assessment,this review analyzes the significant potential and future prospects of AI-based fundus image analysis in MPOD measurement.The goal of AI-based analysis is to provide faster and more accurate detection methods,thereby promoting further research and new clinical applications of MPOD in the field of ophthalmology.
文摘Retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)dysfunction is involved in the advancement of numerous degenerative retinal illnesses,such as age-related macular degeneration and hereditary retinal abnormalities.Transplantation of RPE produced from stem cells has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to restore retinal function and prevent vision loss.However,other obstacles impede its clinical application,including immunological rejection,cell viability,functional integration,and the necessity for consistent differentiation techniques.This review offers a thorough examination of the molecular processes regulating RPE integrity,investigates recent progress in stem cell-derived RPE therapeutics,and addresses significant challenges to their broad implementation.Furthermore,we emphasize prospective avenues intended to enhance the safety,efficacy,and enduring success of RPE transplantation in clinical environments.
基金Supported by the Key Research and Development Program of the Ministry of Science and Technology(No.2022YFF1202901)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82171404)+6 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province of China(No.2023A1515011529)the Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangzhou City(No.2023A03J0181No.2024A04J6481)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.22yklj04)the Research Start-up Founds of Sun Yat-sen University(No.[2020]18)the Scientific Research Project of Hunan Provincial Health Commission(No.w20243051)Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(No.2024JJ7003).
文摘AIM:To investigate the role of RNA methylation in retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)cells in age-related macular degeneration(AMD).METHODS:RNA methylation-related gene expression profiles of AMD patient and normal control retinal pigment epithelium were evaluated by single-cell transcriptome from 34 samples(11 from normal donors and 23 from AMD patients).The causal relationship between RNA methylation dysfunction and AMD was analyzed by summary-data-based Mendelian randomization(SMR)using AMD GWAS data and multi-omics quantitative trait loci(QTL),including expression QTLs(eQTLs),protein QTLs(pQTLs),splicing QTLs(sQTLs),and m^(6)A-QTLs(mQTLs).Additionally,machine learning models were applied to validate the causal association between RNA methylation dysfunction and AMD using Bulk RNA sequencing data from 31 normal donors and 37 AMD patients.RESULTS:The single-cell transcriptome data analysis revealed massive dysregulation of RNA methylationrelated methylationrelated gene expression in the RPE of AMD patients.SMR revealed causal associations between key RNA methylation regulators(METTL3,NSUN6,and MRM1,etc.)and AMD onset.Machine learning models further validated these findings and demonstrated a high accuracy of AMD risk prediction by using the above-identified RNA methylationrelated genes:METTL3,NSUN6,and MRM1.Furthermore,METTL3 and NSUN6 were found to have a protective effect,while MRM1 was associated with an increased risk of AMD.CONCLUSION:The results reveal the implication of dysregulation of RNA methylation-related gene expression in the RPE of AMD patients and further demonstrated a causal association between RNA methylation-related genes(METTL3,NSUN6,and MRM1)and AMD.These findings highlight the importance of RNA methylation in the pathogenesis of AMD and offer potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AMD management.
基金funded by the Guangzhou Sci-ence and Technology Project(No.201803020017).
文摘The giant triton snail Charonia tritonis is a marine large carnivorous gastropoda inhabiting in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.Their splendid and highly organized Charonia tritonis shells are attractive;however few studies have been conducted on shell ultra-structure and pigmentation.The arrangements of crossed-lamellar structures were distinctive for the giant triton snail shell,showing three layers of mineral structures in the cross-section.The 1st-order and 2nd-order lamellae of the shell were around 10-20μm and the crystals in outer layers intersected at right angles in this species.They were identified as aragonite crystals by Raman scattering,and granular organic matrix were attached to the aragonite mineral phase closely.Furthermore,the dominant Raman spectra from polyene pigments in the shell were characterized at wavenumbers of 1123 cm^(-1)and 1504 cm^(-1),assigned to stretching vibrations of carbon-carbon single(C-C)and double(C=C)bonds,and the polyene chain was confirmed with 11-12 C-C bonds and 12-13 conju-gated C=C bonds.The research will lay a foundation for exploring the relationship between the calcareous shell and the formation of shell color in the giant triton snail.
基金supported by the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2021M701462)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32072254)+2 种基金the Postdoctoral Research Funding Program of Jiangsu Province(2021K097A)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(JUSRP121106)the“Qing Lan Project”of Jiangsu Province。
文摘The dark blue pigment(DBP)is a health ingredient from Vaccinium bracteatum Thunb.leaves used as a functional food supplement.However,the details of transepithelial absorption on the intestinal epithelial cells are barely understood.This study aimed to clarify the absorption properties of DBP in the Caco-2 cell monolayer model and evaluate the effect on the endo-metabolism and barrier function of Caco-2 cells.The results showed that the DBP did not show the dose-dependent toxic effect to Caco-2 cells between 0.25 and 1.5 mg/mL,which did not cause disorder in the normal cell metabolism and absorption activity.The Caco-2 cell monolayer model could absorb DBP by passive and active transport,and the absorptive pattern was dosedependent when the concentration was more than 0.25 mg/mL.During DBP absorption,an increase in m RNA and protein expressions of glucose transporters demonstrated that the glucose transporters were the potential transporter of DBP.But the glucose transport amounts were significantly lowered after 30 min of DBP treatment,indicating that DBP owned the inhibitory effect on glucose transportation.Furthermore,DBP also owned protective effects on the barrier function of intestinal epithelial cells.
基金Supported by Science and Technology Program of Yunnan Provincial Department of Science and Technology-Basic Research Program,No.202301BA070001-025.
文摘BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy(DR)is one of the major eye diseases contributing to blindness worldwide.Endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress in retinal cells is a key factor leading to retinal inflammation and vascular leakage in DR,but its mechanism is still unclear.AIM To investigate the potential mechanism of LEF1 and related RNAs in DR.METHODS ARPE-19 cells were exposed to high levels of glucose for 24 hours to simulate a diabetic environment.Intraperitoneally injected streptozotocin was used to induce the rat model of DR.The expression levels of genes and related proteins were measured by RT-qPCR and Western blotting;lnc-MGC and miR-495-3p were detected by fluorescent in situ hybridization;CCK-8 and TUNEL assays were used to detect cell viability and apoptosis;enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect inflammatory factors;dual-luciferase gene assays were used to verify the targeting relationship;and the retina was observed by HE staining.RESULTS LEF1 and lnc-MGC have binding sites,and lnc-MGC can regulate the miR-495-3p/GRP78 molecular axis.In high glucose-treated cells,inflammation was aggravated,the intracellular reactive oxygen species concentration was increased,cell viability was reduced,apoptosis was increased,the ER response was intensified,and ferroptosis was increased.As an ER molecular chaperone,GRP78 regulates the ER and ferroptosis under the targeting of miR-495-3p,whereas inhibiting LEF1 can further downregulate the expression of lnc-MGC,increase the level of miR-495-3p,and sequentially regulate the level of GRP78 to alleviate the occurrence and development of DR.Animal experiments indicated that the knockdown of LEF1 can affect the lnc-MGC/miR-495-3p/GRP78 signaling axis to restrain the progression of DR.CONCLUSION LEF1 knockdown can regulate the miR-495-3p/GRP78 molecular axis through lnc-MGC,which affects ER stress and restrains the progression of DR and ferroptosis in retinal pigment epithelial cells.
基金the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province(No.2022JM-521)the Science and Technology Plan Project of Xi’an(No.21YXYJ0031).
文摘AIM:To explore the effects of hepatocyte growth factor(HGF)on retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cell behaviors.METHODS:The human adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19(ARPE-19)were treated by HGF or mesenchymalepithelial transition factor(MET)inhibitor SU11274 in vitro.Cell viability was detected by a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay.Cell proliferation and motility was detected by a bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assay and a wound healing assay,respectively.The expression levels of MET,phosphorylated MET,protein kinase B(AKT),and phosphorylated AKT proteins were determined by Western blot assay.The MET and phosphorylated MET proteins were also determined by immunofluorescence assay.RESULTS:HGF increased ARPE-19 cells’viability,proliferation and migration,and induced an increase of phosphorylated MET and phosphorylated AKT proteins.SU11274 significantly reduced cell viability,proliferation,and migration and decreased the expression of MET and AKT proteins.SU11274 suppressed HGF-induced increase of viability,proliferation,and migration in ARPE-19 cells.Additionally,SU11274 also blocked HGF-induced phosphorylation of MET and AKT proteins.CONCLUSION:HGF enhances cellular viability,proliferation,and migration in RPE cells through the MET/AKT signaling pathway,whereas this enhancement is suppressed by the MET inhibitor SU11274.HGF-induced MET/AKT signaling might be a vital contributor of RPE cells survival.
基金The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Second People's Hospital of Chengdu.
文摘BACKGROUND The incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer(CRC)are among the highest in the world,and its occurrence and development are closely related to tumor neovascularization.When the balance between pigment epithelium-derived factors(PEDF)that inhibit angiogenesis and vascular endothelial growth factors(VEGF)that stimulate angiogenesis is broken,angiogenesis is out of control,resulting in tumor development.Therefore,it is very necessary to find more therapeutic targets for CRC for early intervention and later treatment.AIM To investigate the expression and significance of PEDF,VEGF,and CD31-stained microvessel density values(CD31-MVD)in normal colorectal mucosa,adenoma,and CRC.METHODS In this case-control study,we collected archived wax blocks of specimens from the Digestive Endoscopy Center and the General Surgery Department of Chengdu Second People's Hospital from April 2022 to October 2022.Fifty cases of specimen wax blocks were selected as normal intestinal mucosa confirmed by electronic colonoscopy and concurrent biopsy(normal control group),50 cases of specimen wax blocks were selected as colorectal adenoma confirmed by electronic colonoscopy and pathological biopsy(adenoma group),and 50 cases of specimen wax blocks were selected as CRC confirmed by postoperative pathological biopsy after inpatient operation of general surgery(CRC group).An immunohistochemical staining experiment was carried out to detect PEDF and VEGF expression in three groups of specimens,analyze their differences,study the relationship between the two and clinicopathological factors in CRC group,record CD31-MVD in the three groups,and analyze the correlation of PEDF,VEGF,and CD31-MVD in the colorectal adenoma group and the CRC group.The F test or adjusted F test is used to analyze measurement data statistically.Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test was used between groups for ranked data.The chi-square test,adjusted chi-square test,or Fisher's exact test were used to compare the rates between groups.All differences between groups were compared using the Bonferroni method for multiple comparisons.Spearman correlation analysis was used to test the correlation of the data.The test level(α)was 0.05,and a two-sided P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS The positive expression rate and expression intensity of PEDF were gradually decreased in the normal control group,adenoma group,and CRC group(100%vs 78%vs 50%,χ^(2)=34.430,P<0.001;++~++vs+~++vs-~+,H=94.059,P<0.001),while VEGF increased gradually(0%vs 68%vs 96%,χ^(2)=98.35,P<0.001;-vs-~+vs++~+++,H=107.734,P<0.001).In the CRC group,the positive expression rate of PEDF decreased with the increase of differen-tiation degree,invasion depth,lymph node metastasis,distant metastasis,and TNM stage(χ^(2)=20.513,4.160,5.128,6.349,5.128,P<0.05);the high expression rate of VEGF was the opposite(χ^(2)=10.317,13.134,17.643,21.844,17.643,P<0.05).In the colorectal adenoma group,the expression intensity of PEDF correlated negatively with CD31-MVD(r=-0.601,P<0.001),whereas VEGF was not significantly different(r=0.258,P=0.07).In the CRC group,the expression intensity of PEDF correlated negatively with the expression intensity of CD31-MVD and VEGF(r=-0.297,P<0.05;r=-0.548,P<0.05),while VEGF expression intensity was positively related to CD31-MVD(r=0.421,P=0.002).CONCLUSION It is possible that PEDF can be used as a new treatment and prevention target for CRC by upregulating the expression of PEDF while inhibiting the expression of VEGF.
基金funded by the Scientific and Technological Innovation Team Project of Seed Industry for Saline-alkali Tolerant Crop in Hebei Province(23327501D)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD2300802,2022YFD1900703)the China Agriculture Research System(CARS-3).
文摘Promoting more floret primordia within a spike to acquire fertile potential during the differentiation and pre-dimorphism phases is critical for increasing the number of fertile florets per spike(NFFs).However,it is yet unknown the physiological mechanism regulating the complex and dynamic process.This study aimed to clarify how intra-spike hormones,pigments,and assimilates coordinate with each other to regulate spike morphology and then floret primordia development.A two-year field experiment was conducted with two winter wheat genotypes:N50(big-spike with greater NFFs)and SM22(mediumspike with fewer NFFs).We monitored high temporal and spatial-resolution changes in the number and morphology of floret primordia within a spike,as well as in intra-spike hormones,pigments,and assimilates.Our results revealed that the big-spike genotype had more NFFs than the medium-spike genotype,not only because they had more spikelets,but also because they had greater NFFs mainly at central spikelets.More floret primordia at central spikelets had sufficient time to develop and acquire fertile potential during the differentiation phase(167-176 d after sowing,DAS)and the pre-dimorphism phase(179 DAS)for the big-spike genotype than the medium-spike genotype.Floret primordia with fertile morphology during the pre-dimorphism phase always developed into fertile florets during the dimorphism phase.Those early-developed floret primordia most proximal and intermediate to the rachis in the big-spike genotype developed faster than the medium-spike genotype.Correspondingly,the spike dry matter and pigments(chlorophyll a,chlorophyll b,carotene,and carotenoids)content during 170-182 DAS,auxin(IAA)and cytokinin(CTK)content on 167 DAS were significantly higher in the big-spike genotype than in the medium-spike genotype,while jasmonic acid(JA)content was significantly lower in the big-spike genotype compared to the medium-spike genotype during 167-182 DAS.Since the significant differences in intra-spike hormone content of the two genotypes appear earlier than those in dry matter and pigments,we propose a possible model that helped the N50 genotype(big-spike)to form more fertile florets,taking the intra-spike hormone content as a signaling molecule induced assimilates and pigments synthesis,which accelerated the development of more floret primordia during the differentiation phase and then acquired fertile potential during the pre-dimorphism phase,finally improved the NFFs.Our high temporal and spatial-resolution analysis provides an accurate time window for precision cultivation and effective physiological breeding to improve the number of fertile florets in wheat.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province,China(No.2022JM-521).
文摘AIM:To explore the effect of epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)inhibition by erlotinib and EGFR siRNA on epidermal growth factor(EGF)-induced activation of retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)cells.METHODS:Human RPE cell line(ARPE-19 cells)was activated by 100 ng/mL EGF.Erlotinib and EGFR siRNA were used to intervene EGF treatment.Cellular viability,proliferation,and migration were detected by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium(MTT)assay,bromodeoxyuridine(BrdU)staining assay and wound healing assay,respectively.EGFR/protein kinase B(AKT)pathway proteins and N-cadherin,α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA),and vimentin were tested by Western blot assay.EGFR was also determined by immunofluorescence staining.RESULTS:EGF treatment for 24h induced a significant increase of ARPE-19 cells’viability,proliferation and migration,phosphorylation of EGFR/AKT proteins,and decreased total EGFR expression.Erlotinib suppressed ARPE-19 cells’viability,proliferation and migration through down regulating total EGFR and AKT protein expressions.Erlotinib also inhibited EGF-induced an increase of proliferative and migrative ability in ARPE-19 cells and clearly suppressed EGF-induced EGFR/AKT proteins phosphorylation and decreased expression of N-cadherin,α-SMA,and vimentin proteins.Similarly,EGFR inhibition by EGFR siRNA significantly affected EGF-induced an increase of cell proliferation,viability,and migration,phosphorylation of EGFR/AKT proteins,and up-regulation of N-cadherin,α-SMA,and vimentin proteins.CONCLUSION:Erlotinib and EGFR-knockdown suppress EGF-induced cell viability,proliferation,and migration via EGFR/AKT pathway in RPE cells.EGFR inhibition may be a possible therapeutic approach for proliferative vitreoretinopathy(PVR).
基金Fujian External Cooperation Project of Natural Science Foundation,China(No.2022I0042)。
文摘The silk fabrics were matching dyed with three natural edible pigments(red rice red,ginger yellow and gardenia blue).By investigating the dyeing rates and lifting properties of these pigments,it was observed that their compatibilities were excellent in the dyeing process:dye dosage 2.5%(omf),mordant alum dosage 2.0%(omf),dyeing temperature 80℃and dyeing time 40 min.The silk fabrics dyed with secondary colors exhibited vibrant and vivid color owing to the remarkable lightness and chroma of ginger yellow.However,gardenia blue exhibited multiple absorption peaks in the visible light range,resulting in significantly lower lightness and chroma for the silk fabrics dyed with tertiary colors,thus making it suitable only for matte-colored fabrics with low chroma levels.In addition,the silk fabrics dyed with these three pigments had a color fastness that exceeded grade 3 in resistance to perspiration,soap washing and light exposure,indicating acceptable wearing properties.The dyeing process described in this research exhibited a wide range of potential applications in matching dyeing of protein-based textiles with natural colorants.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32102763)the Ningbo Science and Technology Research Projects+3 种基金China(No.2019B10006)the earmarked fund(No.CARS-49)the Ningbo Science and Technology Research ProjectsChina(No.2024Z276)。
文摘The growth and nutrients of photosynthetic organisms are significantly influenced by light spectra,yet this relationship is not well-understood in microalgae.Herein,we studied three microalgae species—Chaetoceros sp.,Isochrysis galbana,and Tetraselmis helgolandica—distinguished by their pigments.We exposed them to seven light spectra,including white(control),red,orange,green,blue,violet,and full spectrum.The results showed distinct responses in the three microalgae to varying light spectra.Optimal growth occurred under blue,violet,and white lights for Chaetoceros sp.,Ⅰ.galbana,and T.helgolandica,respectively,while orange,red,and green lights inhibited growth.Notably,green light significantly increased the protein content in all three microalgae.Carbohydrate and lipid content exhibited species-specific responses:the highest carbohydrate accumulation was achieved for Chaetoceros sp.under red light(73.27±1.45 mg/g),Ⅰ.galbana under orange light(122.89±12.28 mg/g),and T.helgolandica under blue light(43.62±2.79 mg/g).Meanwhile,the highest lipid content was obtained under violet light for Chaetoceros sp.andⅠ.galbana(250.80±7.27 and 320.23±5.75 mg/g,respectively),and under green light for T.helgolandica(255.12±31.19 mg/g).Furthermore,violet light greatly promoted the accumulation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in all three microalgae.Specific pigment compositions also responded to variations in light spectra.For instance,the diadinoxanthin content in Chaetoceros sp.increased significantly under orange light(194.77±13.78μg/g),while chlorophyll-a content inⅠ.galbana increased significantly under violet and blue lights((88.84±33.46)-(141.38±1.64)μg/g),and in T.helgolandica under red,green,and blue lights((1485.04±190.46)-(1886.60±387.42)μg/g).Additionally,Ⅰ.galbana exhibited the highest fucoxanthin,diadinoxanthin,andβ-carotene contents under white light.In conclusion,our results highlight the species-specific impact of light spectra on microalgae growth and nutrients,providing valuable guidance for flexible application of light spectra in microalgal production to enhance yields and target specific nutrients.
基金Supported by grants from the Zhejiang Medicine and Health Science and Technology Project(No.2018KY748)Ningbo Natural Science Foundation(No.2019A610352)+3 种基金Ningbo Major Scientific and Technological Research and“Unveiling and Commanding”Project(No.2021Z054)Chongqing Science&Technology Commission(No.CSTB2022NSCQ-MSX1413)Ningbo Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmology(No.2022L003)Ningbo Key Laboratory for Neuroretinopathy Medical Research,and the Project of NINGBO Leading Medical&Health Discipline(No.2016-S05).
文摘AIM:To investigate the proliferation regulatory effect of cone-rod homeobox(CRX)in retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)and retinoblastoma(RB)cells to explore the potential application and side effect(oncogenic potential)of CRXbased gene therapy in RPE-based retinopathies.METHODS:Adult human retinal pigment epithelial(ARPE)-19 and human retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)-1 cells and Y79 RB cell were used in the study.Genetic manipulation was performed by lentivirus-based technology.The cell proliferation was determined by a CellTiter-Glo Reagent.The mRNA and protein levels were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western blot assay.The transcriptional activity of the promoter was determined by luciferase reporter gene assay.The bindings between CRX and transcription factor 7(TCF7)promoter as well as TCF7 and the promoters of TCF7 target genes were examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChIP)assay.The transcription of the TCF7 was determined by a modified nuclear run-on assay.RESULTS:CRX overexpression and knockdown significantly increased(n=3,P<0.05 in all the cells)and decreased(n=3,P<0.01 in all the cells)the proliferation of RPE and RB cells.CRX overexpression and knockdown significantly increased and deceased the mRNA levels of Wnt signaling target genes[including MYC proto-oncogene(MYC),JUN,FOS like 1(FOSL1),CCND1,cyclin D2(CCND2),cyclin D3(CCND3),cellular communication network factor 4(CCN4),peroxisome proliferator activated receptor delta(PPARD),and matrix metallopeptidase 7(MMP7)]and the luciferase activity driven by the Wnt signaling transcription factor(TCF7).TCF7 overexpression and knockdown significantly increased and decreased the proliferation of RPE and RB cells and depletion of TCF7 significantly abolished the stimulatory effect of CRX on the proliferation of RPE and RB cells.CRX overexpression and knockdown significantly increased and decreased the mRNA level of TCF7 and the promoter of TCF7 was significantly immunoprecipitated by CRX antibody.CONCLUSION:CRX transcriptionally activates TCF7 to promote the proliferation of RPE and RB cells in vitro.CRX is a potential target for RPE-based regenerative medicine.The potential risk of this strategy,tumorigenic potential,should be considered.
基金National Key Technology R&D Program of China(2022YFF1001403)National Science Foundation of China(32101764).
文摘Cotton has enormous economic potential,providing high-quality protein,oil,and fibre.But the comprehensive utilization of cottonseed is limited by the presence of pigment gland and its inclusion.Pigment gland is a common characteristic of Gossypium genus and its relatives,appearing as visible dark opaque dots in most tissues and organs of cotton plants.Secondary metabolites,such as gossypol,synthesized and stored in the cavities of pigment glands act as natural phytoalexins,but are toxic to humans and other monogastric animals.However,only a few cotton genes have been identified as being associated with pigment gland morphogenesis to date,and the developmental processes and regulatory mechanism involved in pigment gland formation remain largely unclear.Here,the research progress on the process of pigment gland morphogenesis and the genetic basis of cotton pigment glands is reviewed,for providing a theoretical basis for cultivating cotton with the ideal pigment gland trait.
