Acetolactate synthase(ALS)-targeting herbicides are among the most widely used weed-control chemicals globally.Mutations in the ALS gene can confer herbicide resistance in crops,thereby allowing selective elimination ...Acetolactate synthase(ALS)-targeting herbicides are among the most widely used weed-control chemicals globally.Mutations in the ALS gene can confer herbicide resistance in crops,thereby allowing selective elimination of weeds without harming crops.Herbicide-resistant ALS alleles were initially discovered in weeds and subsequently developed through artificial mutagenesis techniques.With the advancement of CRISPR/Cas technologies,various genome-editing tools are now available to introduce these resistant alleles,as well as novel variants,into diverse crop species.Moreover,emerging methodologies,such as directed evolution,enable the generation and screening of large populations of random ALS mutants.Consequently,ALS has become one of the most extensively targeted genes in plant gene evolution.This paper provides a comprehensive overview of both conventional and recently developed strategies for ALS evolution,with particular emphasis on CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing and directed evolution.Future perspectives on technological application are also discussed.By advancing our understanding of herbicide-resistant ALS allele development for crop improvement,these methodologies may also pave the way for their application to the evolution of other agronomically important genes.展开更多
The etiopathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases is varied in nature.Various etiogenic factors described are infective,inflammatory,viral,bacterial,parasitic,dietary and lifestyle change.Rare causative agents are imm...The etiopathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases is varied in nature.Various etiogenic factors described are infective,inflammatory,viral,bacterial,parasitic,dietary and lifestyle change.Rare causative agents are immunological,and others associated as idiopathic,are undiagnosed by all possible means.Some of the rare diseases are congenital in nature,passing from the parent to the child.Many of the undiagnosed diseases are now being diagnosed as genetic and the genes have been implicated as a causative agent.There is a search for newer treatments for such diseases,which is called genomic medicine.Genomic medicine is an emerging medical discipline that involves the use of genomic information about an individual.This is used both for diagnostic as well as therapeutic decisions to improve the current health domain and pave the way for policymakers for its clinical use.In the developing era of precision medicine,genomics,epigenomics,environmental exposure,and other data would be used to more accurately guide individual diagnosis and treatment.Genomic medicine is already making an impact in the fields of oncology,pharmacology,rare,infectious and many undiagnosed diseases.It is beginning to fuel new approaches in certain medical specialties.Oncology is at the leading edge of incorporating genomics,as diagnostics for genetic and genomic markers are increasingly included in cancer screening,and to guide tailored treatment strategies.Genetics and genetic medicine have been reported to play a role in gastroenterology in several ways,including genetic testing(hereditary pancreatitis and hereditary gastrointestinal cancer syndromes).Genetic testing can also help subtype diseases,such as classifying pancreatitis as idiopathic or hereditary.Gene therapy is a promising approach for treating gastrointestinal diseases that are not effectively treated by conventional pharmaceuticals and surgeries.Gene therapy strategies include gene addition,gene editing,messenger RNA therapy,and gene silencing.Understanding genetic determinants,advances in genetics,have led to a better understanding of the genetic factors that contribute to human disease.Family-member risk stratification and genetic diagnosis can help identify family members who are at risk,which can lead to preventive treatments,lifestyle recommendations,and routine follow ups.Selecting target genes helps identify the gene targets associated with each gastrointestinal disease.Common gastrointestinal diseases associated with genetic abnormalities include-inflammatory bowel disease,gastroesophageal reflux disease,non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,and irritable bowel syndrome.With advancing tools and technology,research in the search of newer and individualized treatment,genes and genetic medicines are expected to play a significant role in human health and gastroenterology.展开更多
Carotenoids are natural pigments that are widely distributed in the flowers,fruits,and seeds of many plant species.These compounds not only endow diverse colors but also exhibit antioxidant,immune-modulatory,anti-agin...Carotenoids are natural pigments that are widely distributed in the flowers,fruits,and seeds of many plant species.These compounds not only endow diverse colors but also exhibit antioxidant,immune-modulatory,anti-aging,and photoprotective properties.Although carotenoid metabolism has been studied extensively in microbial and plant science,the genetic mechanisms underlying carotenoid metabolism in cotton remain underexplored.Here,we isolated gene GbDYA that regulates a dark-yellow anther color by map-based cloning using a BC1F1 population derived from a cross of Gossypium barbadense acc.Hai7124 with dark-yellow anthers and G.hirsutum acc.TM-1 with light-yellow anthers backcrossed with TM-1.GbDYA encodes phytoene synthase,a key rate-limiting enzyme in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway.A long terminal repeat retrotransposon in the first exon of GhDYA(an ortholog of GbDYA in G.hirsutum acc.TM-1)caused loss of function and led to the light-yellow anther color.GbDYA is predominantly expressed in the early stages of anther development.Transcriptome,RT-qPCR and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that GbDYA influences the synthesis and accumulation of carotenoids in anthers by modulating expression of key genes in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway.Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses indicated that the accumulation of lutein,violaxanthin,antherxanthin,cryptoxanthin,zeaxanthin,andβ-carotene contributed to yellow coloration of anthers.Dual-luciferase and yeast one-hybrid assays confirmed that transcription factor GbMYB105(GB_A11G3511)binds to the promoter of GbDYA and activates its expression.High-temperature stress treatment indicated that carotenoids accumulation in anthers enhances pollen antioxidant activity.This study unravels the role of GbDYA in conferring the anther coloration,and provides the potential utilization by modulating accumulation of carotenoids in anthers to enhance pollen viability in high-temperature tolerance breeding in cotton.展开更多
Stichopus chloronotus is a tropical sea cucumber with facultative asexual reproduction in the Indo-Western Pacific,yet its wild populations are decreasing due to extensive harvesting.Understanding the species’genetic...Stichopus chloronotus is a tropical sea cucumber with facultative asexual reproduction in the Indo-Western Pacific,yet its wild populations are decreasing due to extensive harvesting.Understanding the species’genetic characteristics is essential for effective management and conservation.To develop novel microsatellite markers and assess the genetic diversity,clonality,and genetic structure of eight populations of S.chloronotus in the South China Sea,193 individuals from eight populations across Wuzhizhou and Fenjiezhou(Boundary)islands were analyzed using nine newly developed microsatellite markers and five previously established markers.RNA-Seq was employed to obtained 62662 unigenes and identified 16926 microsatellite loci.Fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed,of which 11 were highly polymorphic(polymorphic information content>0.5).The number of alleles(N_(a))ranged from 3 to 6 per locus,and the average Shannon diversity index(I)was 1.107.All the populations exhibited asexual reproduction,with regional variations in reproductive modes.Asexual reproduction was predominant in the northwestern Wuzhizhou Island population(SY 7)and the Fenjiezhou Island population(LS 8),where four and five predominant clones represented more than 89%of the individuals,which led to reduced genetic diversity.Overall,genetic diversity was moderately low,with significant genetic differentiation among populations(F_(ST)=0.33;P<0.001),suggesting limited gene flow(the number of migrants(N_(m))<1).These findings highlight the role of reproductive strategies in shaping fine-scale genetic differentiation in S.chloronotus.The limited recruitment success of sexually produced larvae and habitat heterogeneity likely constrain clone dispersal,contributing to distinct genetic restructuring.This study provided key insights into the interplay between reproductive strategies and genetic patterns in sea cucumbers,offering a scientific basis for targeted conservation efforts.展开更多
Microglia,the resident monocyte of the central nervous system,play a crucial role in the response to spinal cord injury.However,the precise mechanism remains unclear.To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which mi...Microglia,the resident monocyte of the central nervous system,play a crucial role in the response to spinal cord injury.However,the precise mechanism remains unclear.To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which microglia regulate the neuroinflammatory response to spinal cord injury,we performed single-cell RNA sequencing dataset analysis,focusing on changes in microglial subpopulations.We found that the MG1 subpopulation emerged in the acute/subacute phase of spinal cord injury and expressed genes related to cell pyroptosis,sphingomyelin metabolism,and neuroinflammation at high levels.Subsequently,we established a mouse model of contusive injury and performed intrathecal injection of siRNA and molecular inhibitors to validate the role of ceramide synthase 5 in the neuroinflammatory responses and pyroptosis after spinal cord injury.Finally,we established a PC12-BV2 cell co-culture system and found that ceramide synthase 5 and pyroptosis-associated proteins were highly expressed to induce the apoptosis of neuron cells.Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in a mouse model of spinal cord injury effectively reduced pyroptosis.Furthermore,ceramide synthase 5-induced pyroptosis was dependent on activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway.Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia in vivo reduced neuronal apoptosis and promoted recovery of neurological function.Pla2g7 formed a“bridge”between sphingolipid metabolism and ceramide synthase 5-mediated cell death by inhibiting the NLRP3 signaling pathway.Collectively,these findings suggest that inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia after spinal cord injury effectively suppressed microglial pyroptosis mediated by NLRP3,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.展开更多
The diversity of modular polyketide synthase （PKS） genes in sediments of Ardley Island in Antarctica, was studied by restriction fragment length polymorphism （RFLP） analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of 14 amino acid...The diversity of modular polyketide synthase （PKS） genes in sediments of Ardley Island in Antarctica, was studied by restriction fragment length polymorphism （RFLP） analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of 14 amino acid （AA） sequences indicates that the identified ketosynthase （KS） domains were clustered with those from diverse bacterial groups, including Cyanobacteria, γ-Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and some unidentified microorganisms from marine sponge, bryozoan and other environmental samples. The obtained KS domains showed 43%–81% similarity at the AA level to reference sequences in GenBank. Six identified KS domains showed diverse sequences of the motif （VQTACSTS） that was used to identify the hybrid PKS/nonribosomal peptide synthetase （NRPS） enzyme complex, and formed a new branch. These results reveal a high diversity and novelty of PKS genes in antarctic sediments.展开更多
Background:Under hypoxia,exaggerated compensatory responses may lead to acute mountain sickness.The excessive vasodilatory effect of nitric oxide(NO)can lower the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction(HPV)and peripheral ...Background:Under hypoxia,exaggerated compensatory responses may lead to acute mountain sickness.The excessive vasodilatory effect of nitric oxide(NO)can lower the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction(HPV)and peripheral blood pressure.While NO is catalyzed by various nitric oxide synthase(NOS)isoforms,the regulatory roles of these types in the hemodynamics of pulmonary and systemic circulation in living hypoxic animals remain unclear.Therefore,this study aims to investigate the regu-latory effects of different NOS isoforms on pulmonary and systemic circulation in hypoxic rats by employing selective NOS inhibitors and continuously monitoring hemodynamic parameters of both pulmonary and systemic circulation.Methods:Forty healthy male Sprague–Dawley(SD)rats were randomly divided into four groups:Control group(NG-nitro-D-arginine methyl ester,D-NAME),L-NAME group(non-selective NOS inhibitor,NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester),AG group(in-ducible NOS inhibitor group,aminoguanidine),and 7-NI group(neurological NOS in-hibitor,7-nitroindazole).Hemodynamic parameters of rats were monitored for 10 min after inhibitor administration and 5 min after induction of hypoxia[15%O2,2200 m a.sl.,582 mmHg(76.5 kPa),Xining,China]using the real-time dynamic monitoring model for pulmonary and systemic circulation hemodynamics in vivo.Serum NO concentra-tions and blood gas analysis were measured.Results:Under normoxia,mean arterial pressure and total peripheral vascular resist-ance were increased,and ascending aortic blood flow and serum NO concentration were decreased in the L-NAME and AG groups.During hypoxia,pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance were significantly increased in the L-NAME and AG groups.Conclusions:This compensatory mechanism activated by inducible NOS and en-dothelial NOS effectively counteracts the pulmonary hemodynamic changes induced by hypoxic stress.It plays a crucial role in alleviating hypoxia-induced pulmonary arte-rial hypertension.展开更多
A 3 125 bp cellulose synthase gene, PtoCesA1, which has a 98% identity to PtrCesA1 from Populus tremuloides, was cloned from cDNA prepared from secondary xylem of P tomentosa. Four anti-expression vectors with differe...A 3 125 bp cellulose synthase gene, PtoCesA1, which has a 98% identity to PtrCesA1 from Populus tremuloides, was cloned from cDNA prepared from secondary xylem of P tomentosa. Four anti-expression vectors with different fragments of PtoCesAl, named as pBIPF, pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR, were constructed. Some traits of transformed tobacco of pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR differed from wild types, such as small leaves, ＂dwarf＂ phenotype and thinner xylem and fiber cell walls than wild plants consistent with a loss of cellulose. It indicated that the growth of transgenic tobacco was restrained by the expression of anti-PtoCesA1. Transgenic tobacco was obtained and the contents of cellulose and lignin were analyzed as well as the width and length of fiber cells, and xylem thickness for both transgenic and control plants. Transformed tobacco showed a different phenotype from control plants and it implied that PtoCesA1 was essential for the cellulose biosynthesis in poplar stems.展开更多
The study aims to reveal phylogenetic and evolutionary relationship between aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria（AAnPB） and their relatives,anaerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria（AnAnPB） and nonphototrophi...The study aims to reveal phylogenetic and evolutionary relationship between aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria（AAnPB） and their relatives,anaerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria（AnAnPB） and nonphototrophic bacteria（NPB,which had high homology of 16S rDNA gene with AAnPB and fell into the same genus）,and validate reliability and usefulness of farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase（FPPS） gene for the phylogenetic determination.FPPS genes with our modified primers and 16S rDNA genes with general primers,were amplified and sequenced or retrieved from GenBank database.In contrast to 16S rDNA gene phylogenetic tree,AAnPB were grouped into two clusters and one branch alone with no intermingling with NPB and AnAnPB in the tree constructed on FPPS.One branch of AAnPB,in both trees,was located closer to outgroup species than AnAnPB,which implicated that some AAnPB would be diverged earlier in FPPS evolutionary history than AnAnPB and NPB.Some AAnPB and NPB were closer located in both trees and this suggested that they were the closer relatives than AnAnPB.Combination codon usage in FPPS with phylogenetic analysis,the results indicates that FPPS gene and 16S rRNA gene have similar evolutionary pattern but the former seems to be more reliable and useful in determining the phylogenic and evolutionary relationship between AAnPB and their relatives.This is the first attempt to use a molecular marker beside 16S rRNA gene for studying the phylogeny of AAnPB,and the study may also be helpful in understanding the evolutionary relationship among phototrophic microbes and the trends of photosynthetic genes transfer.展开更多
Background:Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide,creating a pressing need to develop novel drugs that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways.Numerous studies have shown that berberine(BBR)has anti–lung ...Background:Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide,creating a pressing need to develop novel drugs that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways.Numerous studies have shown that berberine(BBR)has anti–lung cancer potential.We aimed to explore the anti–lung cancer effect of BBR and related mechanisms by targeting the glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β)/β-catenin pathway.Methods:Lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD)cells A549 and NCI-H1975 were treated with BBR.Results:Our results showed that BBR inhibited cell proliferation by decreasing c-Myc levels and induced cel cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase by lowering cyclin D1 levels.BBR induced apoptosis by upregulating cleaved caspase 3 levels.BBR inhibited cell migration and invasion by decreasing N-cadherin levels.Furthermore,BBR upregulated the expression of GSK3βprotein and phospho-β-catenin proteins in the cytoplasm,while decreasing the expression ofβ-catenin protein.Next,LUAD cel s were exposed to CHIR-99021(a GSK3βinhibitor).This treatment led to an increase in c-Myc,cyclin D1,andβ-catenin levels at specific concentrations.BBR partially reversed the effects of CHIR-99021.Finally,LUAD cells were treated with CHIR-99021(4μmoL/L)combined with BBR(30 and 60μmoL/L)for 24 h.The expression of programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1)was assessed by Western blot analysis.Jurkat T cells and A549 cel s were cocultured for 24 h to examine the lactate dehydrogenase release rate.Results suggested that BBR suppressed the expression of PD-L1 and heightened the immune lethality of T cells.Conclusions:BBR suppressed the proliferative activity of LUAD cell lines A549 and NCI-H1975 in vitro,induced cell cycle arrest and cancer cel apoptosis in the G0/G1 stage,and repressed the migration and invasion of cancer cells.BBR reduced the PD-L1 protein expression and enhanced T-cell–mediated cytotoxicity.These effects appear to be related to BBR's regulation of the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway.展开更多
[Objective]To confirm the function of the farnesyl diphosphate(FPP)cyclase encoded by orf2064 in Streptomyces exfoliatus UC5319.[Methods]orf2064 was expressed in Escherichia coli,and the recombinant protein was purifi...[Objective]To confirm the function of the farnesyl diphosphate(FPP)cyclase encoded by orf2064 in Streptomyces exfoliatus UC5319.[Methods]orf2064 was expressed in Escherichia coli,and the recombinant protein was purified and assayed with FPP as the substrate.The reaction products were detected by GC-MS.An FPP-overproducing E.coli strain was engineered for heterologous expression of orf2064.The fermentation products were analyzed by GC-MS,and the target compound was isolated and structurally characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy(NMR).In addition,orf2064 was heterologously expressed in Streptomyces,and the fermentation products were analyzed by GC-MS.[Results]GC-MS revealed that both the in vitro reaction of the recombinant protein ORF2064 and the heterologous expression products in E.coli and Streptomyces consistently produced a compound with identical retention time and[M+]of m/z 204.Subsequent isolation,purification,and NMR analysis confirmed this compound as calarene.[Conclusion]The FPP cyclase encoded by orf2064 in S.exfoliatus is identified as an calarene synthase.展开更多
Isoflavones which mainly distributed in leguminous plants have plenty of health benefits.Isoflavone synthase(IFS)is a membrane-associated cytochrome P450 enzyme(CYP450)which carries out the unique aryl-ring migration ...Isoflavones which mainly distributed in leguminous plants have plenty of health benefits.Isoflavone synthase(IFS)is a membrane-associated cytochrome P450 enzyme(CYP450)which carries out the unique aryl-ring migration and hydroxylation.So far,few crystal structures of plant P450s have been obtained.We determined the crystal structure of IFS from Medicago truncatula at 1.9 by MAD method using a selenomethionine substituted crystal and conducted molecular docking and mutagenesis study.The structure of IFS complexed with imidazole exhibits the helix Iα-loop-helix Iβmotif which corresponds to helix I of other P 450s.Compared with structures of common P450s,IFS/imidazole structure contains an extra domain,i.e.,theγ-domain.The structure reveals a homodimer in which theγ-domain of one molecule interacts with theβ-domain of another.The plane of heme group makes an angle of approximately 40°with the helix Iα-loop-helix Iβmotif.Molecular docking combined with mutagenesis study suggested that Trp-128 and Asp-300 might play important roles in substrate binding and recognition.Phe-301,Ser-303 and Gly-305 from the helix Iα-loop-helix Iβmotif may play important roles in the aryl-ring migration.These novel structural features reveal insights into the unique reaction mechanism of IFS and provide a basis for engineering IFS in leguminous crops for health purpose.展开更多
Chitin is an abundant natural biopolymer that plays a crucial role in insect growth and development as a fundamental structural component of the exoskeleton.The membrane-integralβ-glycosyltransferase,chitin synthase,...Chitin is an abundant natural biopolymer that plays a crucial role in insect growth and development as a fundamental structural component of the exoskeleton.The membrane-integralβ-glycosyltransferase,chitin synthase,has been identified as the central component in chitin biosynthesis.However,the precise roles of other proteins in facilitating chitin synthase in chitin biosynthesis remain unclear.In this study,we employed split-ubiquitin membrane yeast two-hybrid(MYTH)and pull-down assays to demonstrate the physical interaction between Twinstar(Tsr),a small molecular protein in the actin-depolymerizing factor ADF/Cofilin protein family,and chitin synthase Krotzkopf verkehrt(Kkv)in Drosophila melanogaster in vitro.The RNA interference(RNAi)-mediated global knockdown of Tsr in D.melanogaster resulted in larval lethality.Furthermore,targeted suppression of Tsr in the tracheal and epidermal tissues also led to larval mortality,while knocking down Tsr in the wing tissues led to wrinkled wings.Additionally,silencing Tsr not only reduced the chitin content in the first longitudinal vein of the wings but also led to the absence of the chitin lamellar structure.To validate the functional conservation of Tsr in other insect orders,the two agricultural pests Ostrinia furnacalis and Tribolium castaneum,representing lepidoptera and coleoptera insects,respectively,were investigated.Knockdown experiments targeting the Drosophila Tsr orthologues OfTsr in O.furnacalis and TcTsr in T.castaneum produced abnormal larvae during molting or pupation in O.furnacalis and lethality in T.castaneum.Our findings not only improve ourknowledge of the chitin biosynthesis machinery in insect cuticles but also provide new potential targets for the control of major agricultural pests.展开更多
BACKGROUND Esophageal cancer(ESCA)is among the most prevalent and lethal tumors globally.While nitric oxide synthase 1(NOS1)is recognized for its important in-volvement in various cancers,its specific function in ESCA...BACKGROUND Esophageal cancer(ESCA)is among the most prevalent and lethal tumors globally.While nitric oxide synthase 1(NOS1)is recognized for its important in-volvement in various cancers,its specific function in ESCA remains unclear.AIM To explore the potential role and underlying mechanisms of NOS1 in ESCA.METHODS Survival rates were analyzed using GeneCards and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis.The effects and mechanisms of NOS1 on ESCA cells were evaluated via the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay,scratch assay,Transwell assay,flow cytometry,quantitative polymerase chain reaction,western blotting,and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling staining.The protein interaction network was used to screen the interacting proteins of NOS1 and validate these interactions through co-immuno-precipitation and dual luciferase assays.Additionally,a nude mouse xenograft model was established to evaluate the effect of NOS1 in vivo.RESULTS The survival rate of patients with ESCA with high NOS1 expression was higher than that of patients with low NOS1 expression.NOS1 expression in ESCA cell lines was lower than that in normal esophageal epithelial cells.Overexpression of NOS1(oe-NOS1)inhibited proliferation,invasion,and migration abilities in ESCA cell lines,resulting in decreased autophagy levels and increased apoptosis,pyroptosis,and ferroptosis.Protein interaction studies confirmed the interaction between NOS1 and NOS1 adaptor protein(NOS1AP).Following oe-NOS1 and the silencing of NOS1AP,levels of P62 and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta increased both in vitro and in vivo.Furthermore,the expression levels of E-cadherin,along with the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)and protein kinase B(AKT),were inhibited in ESCA cell lines.CONCLUSION NOS1 and NOS1 proteins interact to suppress autophagy,activate the PI3K/AKT pathway,and exert anti-cancer effects in ESCA.展开更多
Terpenoids,one of the most diverse and structurally varied natural products in nature,are widely distributed in plants,microbes,and other organisms.Their structural diversity confers significant importance in medicine...Terpenoids,one of the most diverse and structurally varied natural products in nature,are widely distributed in plants,microbes,and other organisms.Their structural diversity confers significant importance in medicine,food,flavorings,and energy.However,traditional methods of plant extraction and chemical synthesis have limitations in industrial applications.Consequently,microbial cell factories have emerged as an important platform for terpenoid production.Terpene synthases(TPSs)are crucial in determining the structural and functional diversity of terpenoids.This review discussed the origin and classificationof TPSs,outlines commonly used TPS mining methods,and summarizes advances in TPS engineering.In addition,it also explores the influenceof machine learning on enzyme mining,the existing challenges and the future opportunities alongside cutting-edge technologies.展开更多
Isochorismate synthase(ICS),a key rate-limiting enzyme in the salicylic acid(SA)biosynthesis pathway in plants,is essential for plant growth and defense against diseases.However,there has been no report on ICS in suga...Isochorismate synthase(ICS),a key rate-limiting enzyme in the salicylic acid(SA)biosynthesis pathway in plants,is essential for plant growth and defense against diseases.However,there has been no report on ICS in sugarcane(Saccharum spp.).In this study,18 SsICSs,42 ShICSs,and 36 SzICSs were identified from the genomes of sugarcane AP85-441(Saccharum spontaneum),XTT22(Saccharum spp.hybrid cultivar),and ZZ1(Saccharum spp.hybrid cultivar),respectively.These were phylogenetically divided into three groups,forming distinct clades that were evolutionarily divergent from those in dicotyledonous species.The evolutionary profile of the ICS gene family suggested expansion through whole-genome duplication/segmental events and strong purifying selection.Promoter cis-element and transcriptome analyses indicated that the ICS gene family responded to disease stress.We cloned the ScICS(isochorismate synthase)gene from sugarcane cultivar XTT22 leaves,and found it was localized in chloroplasts.In vivo and in vitro interaction studies revealed an interaction between ScICS and an ScMYB transcription factor.We showed that ScWRKY28 positively regulated ScICS expression by binding to its promoter.ScICS overexpression in transgenic tobacco confirmed its effectiveness in enhancing disease resistance.There was a significant increase in SA content following pathogen infection along with activation of downstream signaling pathways and defense mechanisms.This study establishes the groundwork for functional studies of sugarcane ICS genes and enhances our understanding of the mechanisms of disease resistance in sugarcane.展开更多
Evidence has shown that differential transcriptomic profiles among human populations from diverse ancestries,supporting the role of genetic architecture in regulating gene expression alongside environmental stimuli.Ge...Evidence has shown that differential transcriptomic profiles among human populations from diverse ancestries,supporting the role of genetic architecture in regulating gene expression alongside environmental stimuli.Genetic variants that regulate gene expression,known as expression quantitative trait loci(eQTL),are primarily shaped by human migration history and evolutionary forces,likewise,regulation of gene expression in principle could have been influenced by these events.Therefore,a comprehensive understanding of how human evolution impacts eQTL offers important insights into how phenotypic diversity is shaped.Recent studies,however,suggest that eQTL is enriched in genes that are selectively constrained.Whether eQTL is minimally affected by selective pressures remains an open question and requires comprehensive investigations.In addition,such studies are primarily dominated by the major populations of European ancestry,leaving many marginalized populations underrepresented.These observations indicate there exists a fundamental knowledge gap in the role of genomics variation on phenotypic diversity,which potentially hinders precision medicine.This article aims to revisit the abundance of eQTL across diverse populations and provide an overview of their impact from the population and evolutionary genetics perspective,subsequently discuss their influence on phenomics,as well as challenges and opportunities in the applications to precision medicine.展开更多
Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)is a chronic and heterogeneous disease.IBD is commonly classified into Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.It is linked to serious symptoms and complications.The onset of I...Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)is a chronic and heterogeneous disease.IBD is commonly classified into Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.It is linked to serious symptoms and complications.The onset of IBD commonly occurs during adolescence.Despite the significant number of cases globally(~5 million),the causes of pediatric IBD,which constitutes 25%of IBD patients,are not yet fully understood.Apart from environmental factors,genetic factors contribute to a higher risk of developing IBD.The predisposition risk of IBD can be investigated using genetic testing.Genetic mechanisms of pediatric IBD are highly complex which resulted in difficulty in selecting effective treatment or patient management.Genetic variation of IBD would serve as a basis for precision medicine and allow for the discovery of more robust treatment avenues for this condition in pediatric patients.This review aims to discuss the genetics of pediatric IBD,and current development in the screening,diagnosis,and treatment based on genetic profiling of pediatric IBD subjects toward more personalized management of this disease.展开更多
Chronic kidney disease(CKD)affects a significant fraction of the global population and is closely associated with elevated cardiovascular risk and poor clinical outcomes.Its pathophysiology entails complex molecular a...Chronic kidney disease(CKD)affects a significant fraction of the global population and is closely associated with elevated cardiovascular risk and poor clinical outcomes.Its pathophysiology entails complex molecular and cellular disturbances,including reduced nitric oxide bioavailability,persistent low-grade inflammation,oxidative stress,endothelial dysfunction,altered mineral metabolism,genetic predispositions,and uremic toxin accumulation.As current pharmacological treatments provide only partial risk reduction,complementary approaches are imperative.Exercise training,both aerobic and resistance,has emerged as a potent non-pharmacological intervention targeting these underlying molecular pathways.Regular exercise can enhance nitric oxide signaling,improve antioxidant defenses,attenuate inflammation,facilitate endothelial repair via endothelial progenitor cells,and stabilize muscle metabolism.Additionally,accumulating evidence points to a genetic dimension in CKD susceptibility and progression.Variants in genes such as APOL1,PKD1,PKD2,UMOD,and COL4A3–5 shape disease onset and severity,and may modulate response to interventions.Exercise may help buffer these genetic risks by inducing epigenetic changes,improving mitochondrial function,and optimizing crosstalk between muscle,adipose tissue,and the vasculature.This review synthesizes how exercise training can ameliorate key molecular mediators in CKD,emphasizing the interplay with genetic and epigenetic factors.We integrate evidence from clinical and experimental studies,discussing how personalized exercise prescriptions,informed by patients’genetic backgrounds and nutritional strategies(such as adequate protein intake),could enhance outcomes.Although large-scale trials linking molecular adaptations to long-term endpoints are needed,current knowledge strongly supports incorporating exercise as a cornerstone in CKD management to counteract pervasive molecular derangements and leverage genetic insights for individualized care.展开更多
基金Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2023B1515120050,2023A1515110529 and 2024A1515012454)Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(JCYJ20230807145759008 and KJZD20240903100206009).
文摘Acetolactate synthase(ALS)-targeting herbicides are among the most widely used weed-control chemicals globally.Mutations in the ALS gene can confer herbicide resistance in crops,thereby allowing selective elimination of weeds without harming crops.Herbicide-resistant ALS alleles were initially discovered in weeds and subsequently developed through artificial mutagenesis techniques.With the advancement of CRISPR/Cas technologies,various genome-editing tools are now available to introduce these resistant alleles,as well as novel variants,into diverse crop species.Moreover,emerging methodologies,such as directed evolution,enable the generation and screening of large populations of random ALS mutants.Consequently,ALS has become one of the most extensively targeted genes in plant gene evolution.This paper provides a comprehensive overview of both conventional and recently developed strategies for ALS evolution,with particular emphasis on CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing and directed evolution.Future perspectives on technological application are also discussed.By advancing our understanding of herbicide-resistant ALS allele development for crop improvement,these methodologies may also pave the way for their application to the evolution of other agronomically important genes.
文摘The etiopathogenesis of gastrointestinal diseases is varied in nature.Various etiogenic factors described are infective,inflammatory,viral,bacterial,parasitic,dietary and lifestyle change.Rare causative agents are immunological,and others associated as idiopathic,are undiagnosed by all possible means.Some of the rare diseases are congenital in nature,passing from the parent to the child.Many of the undiagnosed diseases are now being diagnosed as genetic and the genes have been implicated as a causative agent.There is a search for newer treatments for such diseases,which is called genomic medicine.Genomic medicine is an emerging medical discipline that involves the use of genomic information about an individual.This is used both for diagnostic as well as therapeutic decisions to improve the current health domain and pave the way for policymakers for its clinical use.In the developing era of precision medicine,genomics,epigenomics,environmental exposure,and other data would be used to more accurately guide individual diagnosis and treatment.Genomic medicine is already making an impact in the fields of oncology,pharmacology,rare,infectious and many undiagnosed diseases.It is beginning to fuel new approaches in certain medical specialties.Oncology is at the leading edge of incorporating genomics,as diagnostics for genetic and genomic markers are increasingly included in cancer screening,and to guide tailored treatment strategies.Genetics and genetic medicine have been reported to play a role in gastroenterology in several ways,including genetic testing(hereditary pancreatitis and hereditary gastrointestinal cancer syndromes).Genetic testing can also help subtype diseases,such as classifying pancreatitis as idiopathic or hereditary.Gene therapy is a promising approach for treating gastrointestinal diseases that are not effectively treated by conventional pharmaceuticals and surgeries.Gene therapy strategies include gene addition,gene editing,messenger RNA therapy,and gene silencing.Understanding genetic determinants,advances in genetics,have led to a better understanding of the genetic factors that contribute to human disease.Family-member risk stratification and genetic diagnosis can help identify family members who are at risk,which can lead to preventive treatments,lifestyle recommendations,and routine follow ups.Selecting target genes helps identify the gene targets associated with each gastrointestinal disease.Common gastrointestinal diseases associated with genetic abnormalities include-inflammatory bowel disease,gastroesophageal reflux disease,non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,and irritable bowel syndrome.With advancing tools and technology,research in the search of newer and individualized treatment,genes and genetic medicines are expected to play a significant role in human health and gastroenterology.
基金financially supported in part by grants from Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project (2023ZD04040)Jiangsu Key Research and Development Program (BE2022384)Collaborative Innovation Center for Modern Crop Production co-sponsored by Province and Ministry (CICMCP) (No. 10)
文摘Carotenoids are natural pigments that are widely distributed in the flowers,fruits,and seeds of many plant species.These compounds not only endow diverse colors but also exhibit antioxidant,immune-modulatory,anti-aging,and photoprotective properties.Although carotenoid metabolism has been studied extensively in microbial and plant science,the genetic mechanisms underlying carotenoid metabolism in cotton remain underexplored.Here,we isolated gene GbDYA that regulates a dark-yellow anther color by map-based cloning using a BC1F1 population derived from a cross of Gossypium barbadense acc.Hai7124 with dark-yellow anthers and G.hirsutum acc.TM-1 with light-yellow anthers backcrossed with TM-1.GbDYA encodes phytoene synthase,a key rate-limiting enzyme in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway.A long terminal repeat retrotransposon in the first exon of GhDYA(an ortholog of GbDYA in G.hirsutum acc.TM-1)caused loss of function and led to the light-yellow anther color.GbDYA is predominantly expressed in the early stages of anther development.Transcriptome,RT-qPCR and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that GbDYA influences the synthesis and accumulation of carotenoids in anthers by modulating expression of key genes in the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway.Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses indicated that the accumulation of lutein,violaxanthin,antherxanthin,cryptoxanthin,zeaxanthin,andβ-carotene contributed to yellow coloration of anthers.Dual-luciferase and yeast one-hybrid assays confirmed that transcription factor GbMYB105(GB_A11G3511)binds to the promoter of GbDYA and activates its expression.High-temperature stress treatment indicated that carotenoids accumulation in anthers enhances pollen antioxidant activity.This study unravels the role of GbDYA in conferring the anther coloration,and provides the potential utilization by modulating accumulation of carotenoids in anthers to enhance pollen viability in high-temperature tolerance breeding in cotton.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Nos.2022YFD2401305,2022YFD2401303)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42166005,42076097)。
文摘Stichopus chloronotus is a tropical sea cucumber with facultative asexual reproduction in the Indo-Western Pacific,yet its wild populations are decreasing due to extensive harvesting.Understanding the species’genetic characteristics is essential for effective management and conservation.To develop novel microsatellite markers and assess the genetic diversity,clonality,and genetic structure of eight populations of S.chloronotus in the South China Sea,193 individuals from eight populations across Wuzhizhou and Fenjiezhou(Boundary)islands were analyzed using nine newly developed microsatellite markers and five previously established markers.RNA-Seq was employed to obtained 62662 unigenes and identified 16926 microsatellite loci.Fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed,of which 11 were highly polymorphic(polymorphic information content>0.5).The number of alleles(N_(a))ranged from 3 to 6 per locus,and the average Shannon diversity index(I)was 1.107.All the populations exhibited asexual reproduction,with regional variations in reproductive modes.Asexual reproduction was predominant in the northwestern Wuzhizhou Island population(SY 7)and the Fenjiezhou Island population(LS 8),where four and five predominant clones represented more than 89%of the individuals,which led to reduced genetic diversity.Overall,genetic diversity was moderately low,with significant genetic differentiation among populations(F_(ST)=0.33;P<0.001),suggesting limited gene flow(the number of migrants(N_(m))<1).These findings highlight the role of reproductive strategies in shaping fine-scale genetic differentiation in S.chloronotus.The limited recruitment success of sexually produced larvae and habitat heterogeneity likely constrain clone dispersal,contributing to distinct genetic restructuring.This study provided key insights into the interplay between reproductive strategies and genetic patterns in sea cucumbers,offering a scientific basis for targeted conservation efforts.
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2017YFA0105400(to LR)the Key Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province,No.2019B020236002(to LR)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81972111(to LZ),81772349(to BL).
文摘Microglia,the resident monocyte of the central nervous system,play a crucial role in the response to spinal cord injury.However,the precise mechanism remains unclear.To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which microglia regulate the neuroinflammatory response to spinal cord injury,we performed single-cell RNA sequencing dataset analysis,focusing on changes in microglial subpopulations.We found that the MG1 subpopulation emerged in the acute/subacute phase of spinal cord injury and expressed genes related to cell pyroptosis,sphingomyelin metabolism,and neuroinflammation at high levels.Subsequently,we established a mouse model of contusive injury and performed intrathecal injection of siRNA and molecular inhibitors to validate the role of ceramide synthase 5 in the neuroinflammatory responses and pyroptosis after spinal cord injury.Finally,we established a PC12-BV2 cell co-culture system and found that ceramide synthase 5 and pyroptosis-associated proteins were highly expressed to induce the apoptosis of neuron cells.Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in a mouse model of spinal cord injury effectively reduced pyroptosis.Furthermore,ceramide synthase 5-induced pyroptosis was dependent on activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway.Inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia in vivo reduced neuronal apoptosis and promoted recovery of neurological function.Pla2g7 formed a“bridge”between sphingolipid metabolism and ceramide synthase 5-mediated cell death by inhibiting the NLRP3 signaling pathway.Collectively,these findings suggest that inhibiting ceramide synthase 5 expression in microglia after spinal cord injury effectively suppressed microglial pyroptosis mediated by NLRP3,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract No.40406029China Ocean Mineral Resources Research & Development Association Funds under contract No.DYXM-115-02-2-04
文摘The diversity of modular polyketide synthase （PKS） genes in sediments of Ardley Island in Antarctica, was studied by restriction fragment length polymorphism （RFLP） analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of 14 amino acid （AA） sequences indicates that the identified ketosynthase （KS） domains were clustered with those from diverse bacterial groups, including Cyanobacteria, γ-Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and some unidentified microorganisms from marine sponge, bryozoan and other environmental samples. The obtained KS domains showed 43%–81% similarity at the AA level to reference sequences in GenBank. Six identified KS domains showed diverse sequences of the motif （VQTACSTS） that was used to identify the hybrid PKS/nonribosomal peptide synthetase （NRPS） enzyme complex, and formed a new branch. These results reveal a high diversity and novelty of PKS genes in antarctic sediments.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant numbers 81560301 and 81160012)the Natural Science Foundation of Qinghai Province(grant number 2022-ZJ-905)‘2022 Qinghai Province Kunlun Talents High-end Innovation and Entrepreneurship Talents’Outstanding Talent Project.
文摘Background:Under hypoxia,exaggerated compensatory responses may lead to acute mountain sickness.The excessive vasodilatory effect of nitric oxide(NO)can lower the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction(HPV)and peripheral blood pressure.While NO is catalyzed by various nitric oxide synthase(NOS)isoforms,the regulatory roles of these types in the hemodynamics of pulmonary and systemic circulation in living hypoxic animals remain unclear.Therefore,this study aims to investigate the regu-latory effects of different NOS isoforms on pulmonary and systemic circulation in hypoxic rats by employing selective NOS inhibitors and continuously monitoring hemodynamic parameters of both pulmonary and systemic circulation.Methods:Forty healthy male Sprague–Dawley(SD)rats were randomly divided into four groups:Control group(NG-nitro-D-arginine methyl ester,D-NAME),L-NAME group(non-selective NOS inhibitor,NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester),AG group(in-ducible NOS inhibitor group,aminoguanidine),and 7-NI group(neurological NOS in-hibitor,7-nitroindazole).Hemodynamic parameters of rats were monitored for 10 min after inhibitor administration and 5 min after induction of hypoxia[15%O2,2200 m a.sl.,582 mmHg(76.5 kPa),Xining,China]using the real-time dynamic monitoring model for pulmonary and systemic circulation hemodynamics in vivo.Serum NO concentra-tions and blood gas analysis were measured.Results:Under normoxia,mean arterial pressure and total peripheral vascular resist-ance were increased,and ascending aortic blood flow and serum NO concentration were decreased in the L-NAME and AG groups.During hypoxia,pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance were significantly increased in the L-NAME and AG groups.Conclusions:This compensatory mechanism activated by inducible NOS and en-dothelial NOS effectively counteracts the pulmonary hemodynamic changes induced by hypoxic stress.It plays a crucial role in alleviating hypoxia-induced pulmonary arte-rial hypertension.
基金Supported by the Hi-Tech Research and Development Program of China (863) (2001AA244060 and 2003AA244020) and National Basic Research Program of China (973) (J1999016003)
文摘A 3 125 bp cellulose synthase gene, PtoCesA1, which has a 98% identity to PtrCesA1 from Populus tremuloides, was cloned from cDNA prepared from secondary xylem of P tomentosa. Four anti-expression vectors with different fragments of PtoCesAl, named as pBIPF, pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR, were constructed. Some traits of transformed tobacco of pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR differed from wild types, such as small leaves, ＂dwarf＂ phenotype and thinner xylem and fiber cell walls than wild plants consistent with a loss of cellulose. It indicated that the growth of transgenic tobacco was restrained by the expression of anti-PtoCesA1. Transgenic tobacco was obtained and the contents of cellulose and lignin were analyzed as well as the width and length of fiber cells, and xylem thickness for both transgenic and control plants. Transformed tobacco showed a different phenotype from control plants and it implied that PtoCesA1 was essential for the cellulose biosynthesis in poplar stems.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract Nos 40232021 and 40576063
文摘The study aims to reveal phylogenetic and evolutionary relationship between aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria（AAnPB） and their relatives,anaerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria（AnAnPB） and nonphototrophic bacteria（NPB,which had high homology of 16S rDNA gene with AAnPB and fell into the same genus）,and validate reliability and usefulness of farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase（FPPS） gene for the phylogenetic determination.FPPS genes with our modified primers and 16S rDNA genes with general primers,were amplified and sequenced or retrieved from GenBank database.In contrast to 16S rDNA gene phylogenetic tree,AAnPB were grouped into two clusters and one branch alone with no intermingling with NPB and AnAnPB in the tree constructed on FPPS.One branch of AAnPB,in both trees,was located closer to outgroup species than AnAnPB,which implicated that some AAnPB would be diverged earlier in FPPS evolutionary history than AnAnPB and NPB.Some AAnPB and NPB were closer located in both trees and this suggested that they were the closer relatives than AnAnPB.Combination codon usage in FPPS with phylogenetic analysis,the results indicates that FPPS gene and 16S rRNA gene have similar evolutionary pattern but the former seems to be more reliable and useful in determining the phylogenic and evolutionary relationship between AAnPB and their relatives.This is the first attempt to use a molecular marker beside 16S rRNA gene for studying the phylogeny of AAnPB,and the study may also be helpful in understanding the evolutionary relationship among phototrophic microbes and the trends of photosynthetic genes transfer.
基金Supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(no.82174457)。
文摘Background:Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide,creating a pressing need to develop novel drugs that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways.Numerous studies have shown that berberine(BBR)has anti–lung cancer potential.We aimed to explore the anti–lung cancer effect of BBR and related mechanisms by targeting the glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β)/β-catenin pathway.Methods:Lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD)cells A549 and NCI-H1975 were treated with BBR.Results:Our results showed that BBR inhibited cell proliferation by decreasing c-Myc levels and induced cel cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase by lowering cyclin D1 levels.BBR induced apoptosis by upregulating cleaved caspase 3 levels.BBR inhibited cell migration and invasion by decreasing N-cadherin levels.Furthermore,BBR upregulated the expression of GSK3βprotein and phospho-β-catenin proteins in the cytoplasm,while decreasing the expression ofβ-catenin protein.Next,LUAD cel s were exposed to CHIR-99021(a GSK3βinhibitor).This treatment led to an increase in c-Myc,cyclin D1,andβ-catenin levels at specific concentrations.BBR partially reversed the effects of CHIR-99021.Finally,LUAD cells were treated with CHIR-99021(4μmoL/L)combined with BBR(30 and 60μmoL/L)for 24 h.The expression of programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1)was assessed by Western blot analysis.Jurkat T cells and A549 cel s were cocultured for 24 h to examine the lactate dehydrogenase release rate.Results suggested that BBR suppressed the expression of PD-L1 and heightened the immune lethality of T cells.Conclusions:BBR suppressed the proliferative activity of LUAD cell lines A549 and NCI-H1975 in vitro,induced cell cycle arrest and cancer cel apoptosis in the G0/G1 stage,and repressed the migration and invasion of cancer cells.BBR reduced the PD-L1 protein expression and enhanced T-cell–mediated cytotoxicity.These effects appear to be related to BBR's regulation of the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway.
文摘[Objective]To confirm the function of the farnesyl diphosphate(FPP)cyclase encoded by orf2064 in Streptomyces exfoliatus UC5319.[Methods]orf2064 was expressed in Escherichia coli,and the recombinant protein was purified and assayed with FPP as the substrate.The reaction products were detected by GC-MS.An FPP-overproducing E.coli strain was engineered for heterologous expression of orf2064.The fermentation products were analyzed by GC-MS,and the target compound was isolated and structurally characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy(NMR).In addition,orf2064 was heterologously expressed in Streptomyces,and the fermentation products were analyzed by GC-MS.[Results]GC-MS revealed that both the in vitro reaction of the recombinant protein ORF2064 and the heterologous expression products in E.coli and Streptomyces consistently produced a compound with identical retention time and[M+]of m/z 204.Subsequent isolation,purification,and NMR analysis confirmed this compound as calarene.[Conclusion]The FPP cyclase encoded by orf2064 in S.exfoliatus is identified as an calarene synthase.
文摘Isoflavones which mainly distributed in leguminous plants have plenty of health benefits.Isoflavone synthase(IFS)is a membrane-associated cytochrome P450 enzyme(CYP450)which carries out the unique aryl-ring migration and hydroxylation.So far,few crystal structures of plant P450s have been obtained.We determined the crystal structure of IFS from Medicago truncatula at 1.9 by MAD method using a selenomethionine substituted crystal and conducted molecular docking and mutagenesis study.The structure of IFS complexed with imidazole exhibits the helix Iα-loop-helix Iβmotif which corresponds to helix I of other P 450s.Compared with structures of common P450s,IFS/imidazole structure contains an extra domain,i.e.,theγ-domain.The structure reveals a homodimer in which theγ-domain of one molecule interacts with theβ-domain of another.The plane of heme group makes an angle of approximately 40°with the helix Iα-loop-helix Iβmotif.Molecular docking combined with mutagenesis study suggested that Trp-128 and Asp-300 might play important roles in substrate binding and recognition.Phe-301,Ser-303 and Gly-305 from the helix Iα-loop-helix Iβmotif may play important roles in the aryl-ring migration.These novel structural features reveal insights into the unique reaction mechanism of IFS and provide a basis for engineering IFS in leguminous crops for health purpose.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32161133010)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD1700200)+2 种基金the Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS-CSCB-202302)the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program,China(KQTD20180411143628272)the Special Funds for Science Technology Innovation and Industrial Development of Shenzhen Dapeng New District,China(PT202101-02).
文摘Chitin is an abundant natural biopolymer that plays a crucial role in insect growth and development as a fundamental structural component of the exoskeleton.The membrane-integralβ-glycosyltransferase,chitin synthase,has been identified as the central component in chitin biosynthesis.However,the precise roles of other proteins in facilitating chitin synthase in chitin biosynthesis remain unclear.In this study,we employed split-ubiquitin membrane yeast two-hybrid(MYTH)and pull-down assays to demonstrate the physical interaction between Twinstar(Tsr),a small molecular protein in the actin-depolymerizing factor ADF/Cofilin protein family,and chitin synthase Krotzkopf verkehrt(Kkv)in Drosophila melanogaster in vitro.The RNA interference(RNAi)-mediated global knockdown of Tsr in D.melanogaster resulted in larval lethality.Furthermore,targeted suppression of Tsr in the tracheal and epidermal tissues also led to larval mortality,while knocking down Tsr in the wing tissues led to wrinkled wings.Additionally,silencing Tsr not only reduced the chitin content in the first longitudinal vein of the wings but also led to the absence of the chitin lamellar structure.To validate the functional conservation of Tsr in other insect orders,the two agricultural pests Ostrinia furnacalis and Tribolium castaneum,representing lepidoptera and coleoptera insects,respectively,were investigated.Knockdown experiments targeting the Drosophila Tsr orthologues OfTsr in O.furnacalis and TcTsr in T.castaneum produced abnormal larvae during molting or pupation in O.furnacalis and lethality in T.castaneum.Our findings not only improve ourknowledge of the chitin biosynthesis machinery in insect cuticles but also provide new potential targets for the control of major agricultural pests.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81000201.
文摘BACKGROUND Esophageal cancer(ESCA)is among the most prevalent and lethal tumors globally.While nitric oxide synthase 1(NOS1)is recognized for its important in-volvement in various cancers,its specific function in ESCA remains unclear.AIM To explore the potential role and underlying mechanisms of NOS1 in ESCA.METHODS Survival rates were analyzed using GeneCards and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis.The effects and mechanisms of NOS1 on ESCA cells were evaluated via the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay,scratch assay,Transwell assay,flow cytometry,quantitative polymerase chain reaction,western blotting,and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling staining.The protein interaction network was used to screen the interacting proteins of NOS1 and validate these interactions through co-immuno-precipitation and dual luciferase assays.Additionally,a nude mouse xenograft model was established to evaluate the effect of NOS1 in vivo.RESULTS The survival rate of patients with ESCA with high NOS1 expression was higher than that of patients with low NOS1 expression.NOS1 expression in ESCA cell lines was lower than that in normal esophageal epithelial cells.Overexpression of NOS1(oe-NOS1)inhibited proliferation,invasion,and migration abilities in ESCA cell lines,resulting in decreased autophagy levels and increased apoptosis,pyroptosis,and ferroptosis.Protein interaction studies confirmed the interaction between NOS1 and NOS1 adaptor protein(NOS1AP).Following oe-NOS1 and the silencing of NOS1AP,levels of P62 and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta increased both in vitro and in vivo.Furthermore,the expression levels of E-cadherin,along with the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)and protein kinase B(AKT),were inhibited in ESCA cell lines.CONCLUSION NOS1 and NOS1 proteins interact to suppress autophagy,activate the PI3K/AKT pathway,and exert anti-cancer effects in ESCA.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2020YFA0908300)the Natural Science Foundation of China(22138006,22278240).
文摘Terpenoids,one of the most diverse and structurally varied natural products in nature,are widely distributed in plants,microbes,and other organisms.Their structural diversity confers significant importance in medicine,food,flavorings,and energy.However,traditional methods of plant extraction and chemical synthesis have limitations in industrial applications.Consequently,microbial cell factories have emerged as an important platform for terpenoid production.Terpene synthases(TPSs)are crucial in determining the structural and functional diversity of terpenoids.This review discussed the origin and classificationof TPSs,outlines commonly used TPS mining methods,and summarizes advances in TPS engineering.In addition,it also explores the influenceof machine learning on enzyme mining,the existing challenges and the future opportunities alongside cutting-edge technologies.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32472166,32172063,and 31771861)the Innovative Team Construction Project of the Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System in Guangdong Province by Agricultural Product Units(Sugarcane and Sisal Industry Technology System,2024CXTD03-06)South China Agricultural University Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program(2024105641195)。
文摘Isochorismate synthase(ICS),a key rate-limiting enzyme in the salicylic acid(SA)biosynthesis pathway in plants,is essential for plant growth and defense against diseases.However,there has been no report on ICS in sugarcane(Saccharum spp.).In this study,18 SsICSs,42 ShICSs,and 36 SzICSs were identified from the genomes of sugarcane AP85-441(Saccharum spontaneum),XTT22(Saccharum spp.hybrid cultivar),and ZZ1(Saccharum spp.hybrid cultivar),respectively.These were phylogenetically divided into three groups,forming distinct clades that were evolutionarily divergent from those in dicotyledonous species.The evolutionary profile of the ICS gene family suggested expansion through whole-genome duplication/segmental events and strong purifying selection.Promoter cis-element and transcriptome analyses indicated that the ICS gene family responded to disease stress.We cloned the ScICS(isochorismate synthase)gene from sugarcane cultivar XTT22 leaves,and found it was localized in chloroplasts.In vivo and in vitro interaction studies revealed an interaction between ScICS and an ScMYB transcription factor.We showed that ScWRKY28 positively regulated ScICS expression by binding to its promoter.ScICS overexpression in transgenic tobacco confirmed its effectiveness in enhancing disease resistance.There was a significant increase in SA content following pathogen infection along with activation of downstream signaling pathways and defense mechanisms.This study establishes the groundwork for functional studies of sugarcane ICS genes and enhances our understanding of the mechanisms of disease resistance in sugarcane.
基金supported by the Ministry of Higher Education(MOHE)Malaysia through Fundamental Research Grant Scheme(FRGS)with project code:FRGS/1/2021/STG01/UCSI/01/.SX was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)grants 32030020 and 32288101funded by the NSFC grant 32270665.
文摘Evidence has shown that differential transcriptomic profiles among human populations from diverse ancestries,supporting the role of genetic architecture in regulating gene expression alongside environmental stimuli.Genetic variants that regulate gene expression,known as expression quantitative trait loci(eQTL),are primarily shaped by human migration history and evolutionary forces,likewise,regulation of gene expression in principle could have been influenced by these events.Therefore,a comprehensive understanding of how human evolution impacts eQTL offers important insights into how phenotypic diversity is shaped.Recent studies,however,suggest that eQTL is enriched in genes that are selectively constrained.Whether eQTL is minimally affected by selective pressures remains an open question and requires comprehensive investigations.In addition,such studies are primarily dominated by the major populations of European ancestry,leaving many marginalized populations underrepresented.These observations indicate there exists a fundamental knowledge gap in the role of genomics variation on phenotypic diversity,which potentially hinders precision medicine.This article aims to revisit the abundance of eQTL across diverse populations and provide an overview of their impact from the population and evolutionary genetics perspective,subsequently discuss their influence on phenomics,as well as challenges and opportunities in the applications to precision medicine.
文摘Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)is a chronic and heterogeneous disease.IBD is commonly classified into Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.It is linked to serious symptoms and complications.The onset of IBD commonly occurs during adolescence.Despite the significant number of cases globally(~5 million),the causes of pediatric IBD,which constitutes 25%of IBD patients,are not yet fully understood.Apart from environmental factors,genetic factors contribute to a higher risk of developing IBD.The predisposition risk of IBD can be investigated using genetic testing.Genetic mechanisms of pediatric IBD are highly complex which resulted in difficulty in selecting effective treatment or patient management.Genetic variation of IBD would serve as a basis for precision medicine and allow for the discovery of more robust treatment avenues for this condition in pediatric patients.This review aims to discuss the genetics of pediatric IBD,and current development in the screening,diagnosis,and treatment based on genetic profiling of pediatric IBD subjects toward more personalized management of this disease.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)grant funded by the Korea government(MSIT)(grant number:NRF-2022R1A2C1092743).
文摘Chronic kidney disease(CKD)affects a significant fraction of the global population and is closely associated with elevated cardiovascular risk and poor clinical outcomes.Its pathophysiology entails complex molecular and cellular disturbances,including reduced nitric oxide bioavailability,persistent low-grade inflammation,oxidative stress,endothelial dysfunction,altered mineral metabolism,genetic predispositions,and uremic toxin accumulation.As current pharmacological treatments provide only partial risk reduction,complementary approaches are imperative.Exercise training,both aerobic and resistance,has emerged as a potent non-pharmacological intervention targeting these underlying molecular pathways.Regular exercise can enhance nitric oxide signaling,improve antioxidant defenses,attenuate inflammation,facilitate endothelial repair via endothelial progenitor cells,and stabilize muscle metabolism.Additionally,accumulating evidence points to a genetic dimension in CKD susceptibility and progression.Variants in genes such as APOL1,PKD1,PKD2,UMOD,and COL4A3–5 shape disease onset and severity,and may modulate response to interventions.Exercise may help buffer these genetic risks by inducing epigenetic changes,improving mitochondrial function,and optimizing crosstalk between muscle,adipose tissue,and the vasculature.This review synthesizes how exercise training can ameliorate key molecular mediators in CKD,emphasizing the interplay with genetic and epigenetic factors.We integrate evidence from clinical and experimental studies,discussing how personalized exercise prescriptions,informed by patients’genetic backgrounds and nutritional strategies(such as adequate protein intake),could enhance outcomes.Although large-scale trials linking molecular adaptations to long-term endpoints are needed,current knowledge strongly supports incorporating exercise as a cornerstone in CKD management to counteract pervasive molecular derangements and leverage genetic insights for individualized care.
