Systemic Inflammatory Response Following Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy Can Affect Oncologic Outcomes in MSI-H/dMMR Rectal Cancer.

Systemic inflammatory response (SIR) is a crucial determinant of disease progression and survival in patients with colorectal cancer. This study investigated the prognostic relevance of changes in the platelet count on survival and the predictive value of changes in the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on the pathological tumor response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) rectal cancer. From 2011 to 2022, data of 46 consecutive patients with MSI-H rectal cancer who were treated with preoperative CRT followed by curative surgery at Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital (Daegu, South Korea) were retrospectively analyzed. A 235 cut-off value was used to define whether PLR was high or low. Any change in the PLR or NLR was calculated on the basis of subtracting the pre-CRT PLR or NLR from the post-CRT values. Both pre-CRT and post-CRT values of the NLR and PLR were not significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Simple logistic regression analysis showed that a change in the PLR following CRT was not significantly associated with survival outcomes; however, patients who maintained a high change in the PLR following CRT showed significantly better pathologic T-stage. No statistically significant association was noted between changes in the platelet count and clinical outcomes of patients. The results suggested that changes in the PLR following CRT are associated with pathologic T-stage of the group. However, the SIR markers showed no prognostic values on the survival outcomes of the patients with MSI-H/mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).

Pathological mechanisms and future therapeutic directions of thrombin in intracerebral hemorrhage: a systematic review.

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), a common subtype of hemorrhagic stroke, often causes severe disability or death. ICH induces adverse events that might lead to secondary brain injury (SBI), and there is currently a lack of specific effective treatment strategies. To provide a new direction for SBI treatment post-ICH, the systematic review discussed how thrombin impacts secondary injury after ICH through several potentially deleterious or protective mechanisms. We included 39 studies and evaluated them using SYRCLE's ROB tool. Subsequently, we explored the potential molecular mechanisms of thrombin-mediated effects on SBI post-ICH in terms of inflammation, iron deposition, autophagy, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, we described the effects of thrombin in endothelial cells, astrocytes, pericytes, microglia, and neurons, as well as the harmful and beneficial effects of high and low thrombin concentrations on ICH. Finally, we concluded the current research status of thrombin therapy for ICH, which will provide a basis for the future clinical application of thrombin in the treatment of ICH.

A Comprehensive Analysis of HOXB13 Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Background and objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and is caused by multiple factors. To explore novel targets for HCC treatment, we comprehensively analyzed the expression of HomeoboxB13 (HOXB13) and its role in HCC. Materials and Methods: The clinical significance of HCC was investigated using open gene expression databases, such as TIMER, UALCAN, KM, OSlihc, and LinkedOmics, and immunohistochemistry analysis. We also analyzed cell invasion and migration in HCC cell lines transfected with HOXB13-siRNA and their association with MMP9, E2F1, and MEIS1. Results: HOXB13 expression was higher in fibrolamellar carcinoma than in other histological subtypes. Its expression was associated with lymph node metastasis, histological stage, and tumor grade. It was positively correlated with immune cell infiltration of B cells (R = 0.246), macrophages (R = 0.182), myeloid dendritic cells (R = 0.247), neutrophils (R = 0.117), and CD4+ T cells (R = 0.258) and negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration of CD8+ T cells (R = -0.107). A positive correlation was observed between HOXB13, MMP9 (R = 0.176), E2F1 (R = 0.241), and MEIS1 (R = 0.189) expression (p < 0.001). The expression level of HOXB13 was significantly downregulated in both HepG2 and PLC/PFR/5 cell lines transfected with HOXB13-siRNA compared to that in cells transfected with NC siRNA (p < 0.05). Additionally, HOXB13 significantly affected cell viability and wound healing. Conclusions: HOXB13 overexpression may lead to poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Additional in vivo studies are required to improve our understanding of the biological role and the exact mechanism of action of HOXB13 in HCC.

Novel application of imidazole-based ligand-templated borates in a zinc-air battery.

Two templated borates, [Co(1-EI)2]·[B5O7(OH)3] (1) and [Ga(1-MI)2·B6O9(OH)4]·[H3BO3]·H[1-MI] (2), have been synthesized using a mild method. Notably, they exhibit an excellent ORR performance with an E1/2 value of 0.84 V and are the first to be used as the positive electrode catalyst for a zinc-air battery, which opens a pathway for the application of borate-based oxide catalysts.

[Advances in the study of the actin nucleation factor Spire].

There are three main classes of actin nucleation factors: Arp2/3 complexes, Spire and Formin. Spire assembles microfilaments by nucleating stable longitudinal tetramers and binding actin to the growing end of the microfilament. As early as 1999, Wellington et al. identified Spire as an actin nucleating agent, however, over the years, most studies have focused on Arp2/3 and Formin proteins; there has been relatively less research on Spire as a member of the actin nucleating factors. Recent studies have shown that Spire is involved in the vesicular transport through the synthesis of actin and plays an important role in neural development. In this paper, we reviewed the structure, expression and function of Spire, and its association with disease in order to identify meaningful potential directions for studies on Spire.

Metabolic Regulation of Longevity and Immune Response in Caenorhabditis elegans by Ingestion of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 Using Multi-Omics Analysis.

Probiotics, specifically Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, have garnered attention for their potential health benefits. This study focuses on evaluating the probiotic properties of candidate probiotics L. rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (3201) using the Caenorhabditis elegans surrogate animal model, a well-established in vivo system for studying host-bacteria interactions. The adhesive ability to the host's gastrointestinal tract is a crucial criterion for selecting potential probiotic bacteria. Our findings demonstrated that 3201 exhibits significantly higher adhesive capabilities compared with Escherichia coli OP50 (OP50), a standard laboratory food source for C. elegans and is comparable with the widely recognized probiotic L. rhamnosus GG (LGG). In lifespan assay, 3201 significantly increased the longevity of C. elegans compared with OP50. In addition, preconditioning with 3201 enhanced C. elegans immune response against four different foodborne pathogenic bacteria. To uncover the molecular basis of these effects, transcriptome analysis elucidated that 3201 modulates specific gene expression related to the innate immune response in C. elegans. C-type lectin-related genes and lysozyme-related genes, crucial components of the immune system, showed significant upregulation after feeding 3201 compared with OP50. These results suggested that preconditioning with 3201 may enhance the immune response against pathogens. Metabolome analysis revealed increased levels of fumaric acid and succinic acid, metabolites of the citric acid cycle, in C. elegans fed with 3201 compared with OP50. Furthermore, there was an increase in the levels of lactic acid, a well-known antimicrobial compound. This rise in lactic acid levels may have contributed to the robust defense mechanisms against pathogens. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the probiotic properties of the candidate probiotic L. rhamnosus IDCC 3201 by using multi-omics analysis.

Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Association between Decreased Ovarian Reserve and In Vitro Fertilization Outcomes.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a highly effective treatment for infertility; however, it poses challenges for women with decreased ovarian reserve (DOR). Despite the importance of understanding the impact of DOR on IVF outcomes, limited research has explored this relationship, particularly using omics approaches. Hence, we conducted a study to investigate the association between DOR and IVF outcomes, employing a metabolomic approach. We analyzed serum samples from 207 women undergoing IVF treatment, including 89 with DOR and 118 with normal ovarian reserve (NOR). Our findings revealed that DOR was significantly associated with unfavorable IVF outcomes, characterized by a reduced oocyte count, lower embryo quality, and decreased rates of pregnancy and live births. Furthermore, we identified 82 metabolites that displayed significant alterations in DOR patients, impacting diverse metabolic pathways. Notably, a distinct panel of metabolites, including palmitic acid, stearic acid, LysoPC(9:0(CHO)/0:0), PC(18:0/9:0(CHO)), and PC(16:0/9:0(CHO)), exhibited discriminatory power between the DOR and NOR groups, showcasing a strong correlation with IVF outcomes. These findings emphasize the crucial role of metabolomic disruptions in influencing IVF outcomes among women with DOR.

Understanding Advanced Transition Metal-Based Two Electron Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts from the Perspective of Phase Engineering.

Non-noble transition metal (TM)-based compounds have recently become a focal point of extensive research interest as electrocatalysts for the two electron oxygen reduction (2e- ORR) process. To efficiently drive this reaction, these TM-based electrocatalysts must bear unique physiochemical properties, which are strongly dependent on their phase structures. Consequently, adopting engineering strategies toward the phase structure has emerged as a cutting-edge scientific pursuit, crucial for achieving high activity, selectivity, and stability in the electrocatalytic process. This comprehensive review addresses the intricate field of phase engineering applied to non-noble TM-based compounds for 2e- ORR. First, the connotation of phase engineering and fundamental concepts related to oxygen reduction kinetics and thermodynamics are succinctly elucidated. Subsequently, the focus shifts to a detailed discussion of various phase engineering approaches, including elemental doping, defect creation, heterostructure construction, coordination tuning, crystalline design, and polymorphic transformation to boost or revive the 2e- ORR performance (selectivity, activity, and stability) of TM-based catalysts, accompanied by an insightful exploration of the phase-performance correlation. Finally, the review proposes fresh perspectives on the current challenges and opportunities in this burgeoning field, together with several critical research directions for the future development of non-noble TM-based electrocatalysts.

Human periodontal ligament stem cell sheets activated by graphene oxide quantum dots repair periodontal bone defects by promoting mitochondrial dynamics dependent osteogenic differentiation.

BACKGROUND: Bone defects in the maxillofacial region restrict the integrity of dental function, posing challenges in clinical treatment. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) with stem cell implants is an effective method. Nanobiomaterials can effectively enhance the resistance of implanted stem cells to the harsh microenvironment of bone defect areas by promoting cell differentiation. Graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) are zero-dimensional nanoscale derivatives of graphene oxide with excellent biological activity. In the present study, we aimed to explore the effects of GOQDs prepared by two methods (Y-GOQDs and B-GOQDs) on the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs), as well as the effect of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-encapsulated GOQD-induced hPDLSC sheets on the repair of mandibular periodontal defects in rats. We also explored the molecular biological mechanism through which GOQD promotes bone differentiation. RESULTS: There were significant differences in oxygen-containing functional groups, particle size and morphology between Y-GOQDs and B-GOQDs. Y-GOQDs promoted the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs more effectively than did B-GOQDs. In addition, GelMA hydrogel-encapsulated Y-GOQD-induced hPDLSC cell sheet fragments not only exhibited good growth and osteogenic differentiation in vitro but also promoted the repair of mandibular periodontal bone defects in vivo. Furthermore, the greater effectiveness of Y-GOQDs than B-GOQDs in promoting osteogenic differentiation is due to the regulation of hPDLSC mitochondrial dynamics, namely, the promotion of fusion and inhibition of fission. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, Y-GOQDs are more effective than B-GOQDs at promoting the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs by regulating mitochondrial dynamics, which ultimately contributes to bone regeneration via the aid of the GelMA hydrogels in vivo.

Age and duration of hypertension are associated with carotid artery tortuosity.

Objective: Tortuosity of the carotid artery is a common angiographic finding that may impact blood flow and neuronal function. However, information on its prevalence and risk factors remains limited. In this study, we determined to explore the factors affecting carotid artery tortuosity. Methods: The head and neck computed tomography angiography (CTA) imaging and cerebral angiography data performed at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between January 2019 and September 2021 were collected, and a total of 356 cases were enrolled in the study after screening. Carotid artery tortuosity refers to the angle between the two adjacent segments of the carotid artery, from the opening of the aortic arch on either side to the external orifice of the carotid canal, being less than 150°. A retrospective analysis was performed to compare the general information, laboratory indicators, personal history, and medical history between the two groups. The χ2 test, t-test, and Mann-Whitney U-test were performed to compare the parameters between the two groups. If there were significant differences between the groups, multivariate logistic regression was performed to analyze the factors affecting carotid artery tortuosity. Results: A total of 222 of the 356 cases were determined to have carotid artery tortuosity, accounting for 63.6%. There were statistically significant differences in age, body mass index (BMI), duration of diabetes and hypertension, levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), diastolic blood pressure, history of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, and the usage of antihypertensive drugs between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the above factors showed that age (OR = 5.063, 95% CI 2.963-10.26, p < 0.001) and duration of hypertension (OR = 2.356, 95% CI 1.353-8.625, p = 0.021) were associated with a higher incidence of carotid artery tortuosity. Compared to patients who did not consume antihypertensive drugs, the incidence of carotid artery tortuosity was significantly less (OR = 0.094, 95% CI 0.002-0.713, p = 0.019) in those consuming antihypertensive drugs. Conclusion: Carotid artery tortuosity is a relatively common carotid artery disease. The incidence of carotid artery tortuosity may increase with age and the duration of hypertension. The consumption of antihypertensive drugs may reduce the incidence of carotid artery tortuosity.

FeP-Based Nanotheranostic Platform for Enhanced Phototherapy/Ferroptosis/Chemodynamic Therapy.

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent and lipid peroxides (LPO)-overloaded programmed damage cell death, induced by glutathione (GSH) depletion and glutathione peroxide 4 (GPX4) inactivation. However, the inadequacy of endogenous iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS) restricts the efficacy of ferroptosis. To overcome this obstacle, a near-infrared photo-responsive FeP@PEG NPs is fabricated. Exogenous iron pool can enhance the effect of ferroptosis via the depletion of GSH and further regulate GPX4 inactivation. Generation of ·OH derived from the Fenton reaction is proved by increased accumulation of lipid peroxides. The heat generated by photothermal therapy and ROS generated by photodynamic therapy can enhance cell apoptosis under near-infrared (NIR-808 nm) irradiation, as evidenced by mitochondrial dysfunction and further accumulation of lipid peroxide content. FeP@PEG NPs can significantly inhibit the growth of several types of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo, which is validated by theoretical and experimental results. Meanwhile, FeP@PEG NPs show excellent T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) property. In summary, the FeP-based nanotheranostic platform for enhanced phototherapy/ferroptosis/chemodynamic therapy provides a reliable opportunity for clinical cancer theranostics.

Association between Combustible Cigarettes and Noncombustible Nicotine or Tobacco Products and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Based on Data from the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2021.

Background: Despite the increasing prevalence of anxiety disorders in Korea, there have been no nationwide studies on the association between tobacco status and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Furthermore, despite the increasing number of people using noncombustible nicotine or tobacco products (NNTPs), the association between NNTP use and GAD remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the association between tobacco use and GAD. Methods: This nationwide study used data from the 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2021) and included 5,454 adults aged ≥19 years who self-reported on the tobacco use and mental health sections. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the odds ratios (ORs) of GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 score ≥10) according to tobacco status among Korean adults. The severity of anxiety was assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale. Results: Compared to never tobacco users, the ORs of GAD for combustible cigarette smokers and NNTP users were 2.74 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.66-4.50) and 2.11 (95% CI, 1.16-3.83), respectively. The OR of GAD for former tobacco users was 1.63 (95% CI, 0.98-2.72). Conclusion: Tobacco use (combustible cigarettes and NNTP) was positively associated with GAD. However, in former tobacco users, there was no significant association with GAD when compared with never tobacco users. Given the OR of GAD among tobacco users, it is crucial to pay attention to screening for GAD and implement appropriate early interventions.

Improvement of NASH and liver fibrosis through modulation of the gut-liver axis by a novel intestinal FXR agonist.

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of bile acid homeostasis and is involved in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Although FXR agonists effectively alleviate pathological features of NASH, adverse effects such as disturbance of cholesterol homeostasis and occurrence of pruritus remain to be addressed. Here, we identified a novel FXR agonist, ID119031166 (ID166), and explored the pharmacological benefits of ID166 in the treatment of NASH. ID166, a potent and selective non-bile acid FXR agonist, exhibits preferential distribution in the intestine and shows no agonist activity against potential itch receptors including Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X4 (MRGPRX4). Interestingly, ID166 significantly attenuated total nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity and liver fibrosis in a free choice diet-induced NASH hamster model. In addition, ID166 drastically modulated the relative abundance of five gut microbes and reduced the increase in plasma total bile acid levels to normal levels in NASH hamsters. Moreover, long-term treatment with ID166 significantly improved key histological features of NASH and liver fibrosis in a diet-induced NASH mouse model. In the NASH mouse livers, RNA-seq analysis revealed that ID166 reduced the gene expression changes associated with both NASH and liver fibrosis. Notably, ID166 exhibited no substantial effects on scratching behavior and serum IL-31 levels in mice. Our findings suggest that ID166, a novel FXR agonist with improved pharmacological properties, provides a preclinical basis to optimize clinical benefits for NASH drug development.

FLOWERING LOCUS T1 and TERMINAL FLOWER1 regulatory networks mediate flowering initiation in apple.

Flower bud formation is a critical process that directly determines yield and fruit quality in fruit crops. Floral induction is modulated by the balance between 2 flowering-related proteins, FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) and TERMINAL FLOWER1 (TFL1); however, the mechanisms underlying the establishment and maintenance of this dynamic balance remain largely elusive. Here, we showed that in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.), MdFT1 is predominantly expressed in spur buds and exhibits an increase in expression coinciding with flower induction; in contrast, MdTFL1 exhibited downregulation in apices during flower induction, suggesting that MdTFL1 has a role in floral repression. Interestingly, both the MdFT1 and MdTFL1 transcripts are directly regulated by transcription factor basic HELIX-LOOP-HELIX48 (MdbHLH48), and overexpression of MdbHLH48 in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) results in accelerated flowering. Binding and activation analyses revealed that MdbHLH48 functions as a positive regulator of MdFT1 and a negative regulator of MdTFL1. Further studies established that both MdFT1 and MdTFL1 interact competitively with MdWRKY6 protein to facilitate and inhibit, respectively, MdWRKY6-mediated transcriptional activation of target gene APPLE FLORICAULA/LFY (AFL1, an apple LEAFY-like gene), ultimately regulating apple flower bud formation. These findings illustrate the fine-tuned regulation of flowering by the MdbHLH48-MdFT1/MdTFL1-MdWRKY6 module and provide insights into flower bud formation in apples.

Molecular characterization and environmental impact of newly isolated lytic phage SLAM_phiST1N3 in the Cornellvirus genus for biocontrol of a multidrug-resistant Salmonella Typhimurium in the swine industry chain.

Salmonella Typhimurium is a highly lethal pathogenic bacterium in weaned piglets, causing significant treatment costs and economic losses in the swine industry. Additionally, due to its ability to induce zoonotic diseases, resulting in harm to humans through the transmission of the pathogen from pork, it presents a serious public health issue. Bacteriophages (phages), viruses that infect specific bacterial strains, have been proposed as an alternative to antibiotics for controlling pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we isolated SLAM_phiST1N3, a phage infecting a multidrug-resistant (MDR) S. Typhimurium wild-type strain isolated from diseased pigs. First, comparative genomics and phylogenetic analysis revealed that SLAM_phiST1N3 belongs to the Cornellvirus genus. Moreover, utilizing a novel classification approach introduced in this study, SLAM_phiST1N3 was classified at the species level. Host range experiments demonstrated that SLAM_phiST1N3 did not infect other pathogenic bacteria or probiotics derived from pigs or other livestock. While complete eradication of Salmonella was not achievable in the liquid inhibition assay, surprisingly, we succeeded in largely eliminating Salmonella in the FIMM analysis, a gut simulation system using weaned piglet feces. Furthermore, using the C. elegans model, we showcased the potential of SLAM_phiST1N3 to prevent S. Typhimurium infection in living organisms. In addition, it was confirmed that bacterial control could be achieved when phage was applied to Salmonella-contaminated pork. pH and temperature stability experiments demonstrated that SLAM_phiST1N3 can endure swine industry processes and digestive conditions. In conclusion, SLAM_phiST1N3 demonstrates potential environmental impact as a substance for Salmonella prevention across various aspects of the swine industry chain.

[Alignment method for metabolite chromatographic peaks using an N-acyl glycine retention index system].

Peak alignment is a crucial data-processing step in untargeted metabolomics analysis that aims to integrate metabolite data from multiple liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) batches for enhanced comparability and reliability. However, slight variations in the chromatographic separation conditions can result in retention time (RT) shifts between consecutive analyses, adversely affecting peak alignment accuracy. In this study, we present a retention index (RI)-based chromatographic peak-shift correction (CPSC) strategy to address RT shifts and align chromatographic peaks for metabolomics studies. A series of N-acyl glycine homologues (C2-C23) was synthesized as calibrants, and an LC RI system was established. This system effectively corrected RT shifts arising from variations in flow rate, gradient elution, instrument systems, and chromatographic columns. Leveraging the RI system, we successfully adjusted the RT of raw data to mitigate RT shifts and then implemented the Joint Aligner algorithm for peak alignment. We assessed the accuracy of the RI-based CPSC strategy using pooled human fecal samples as a test model. Notably, the application of the RI-based CPSC strategy to a long-term dataset spanning 157 d as an illustration revealed a significant enhancement in peak alignment accuracy from 15.5% to 80.9%, indicating its ability to substantially improve peak-alignment precision in multibatch LC-MS analyses.

Periodontal Ligament Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Regulate Muc5ac Expression in Rat Conjunctival Goblet Cells via Regulating Macrophages Toward an Anti-Inflammatory Phenotype.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have reported the protective effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) in reducing inflammation and decreasing conjunctival goblet cell (CGC) loss in dry eye disease. However, whether MSC-Exos provide anti-inflammatory profiles in macrophages, thus contributing to CGC protection, has remained elusive. METHODS: Macrophages were incubated with PKH26-labeled periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (PDLSC-Exos) for 12 h, and uptake of PDLSC-Exos by macrophages was observed by a confocal fluorescence microscope. The mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-10, and Arg1 was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The protein expression of TNF-α and IL-10 were quantified using western blotting. Then, CGCs were exposed to different macrophage supernatants and qRT-PCR was used to detect the Muc5ac mRNA expression of CGCs in response to or absence of cholinergic stimulation. ELISA was used to determine the Muc5ac secretion of CGCs in response to cholinergic stimulation. RESULTS: The uptake of PDLSC-Exos by M1 macrophages facilitates M2 macrophage polarization with the elevated expressions of IL-10 and Arg1. In macrophage supernatant-treated CGCs systems, PDLSC-Exo-treated M1 macrophage supernatant significantly enhanced the Muc5ac expression of CGCs in response to, or in the absence of, cholinergic stimulation, while the addition of PDLSC-Exos to the control macrophage supernatant did not generate a change in Muc5ac expression. Conversely, the addition of PDLSC-Exos to the diluted control macrophage supernatant induced a significant increase in Muc5ac expression. CONCLUSION: PDLSC-Exos could protect CGCs against M1 macrophage-mediated inflammation, and the protective effects of PDLSC-Exos are partly attributable to their effects on M1 macrophages.

Clinical and genetic characteristics predict outcomes of acute myeloid leukemia patients with FLT3 mutations receiving venetoclax-based therapy.

BACKGROUND: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease, and its heterogeneity is associated with treatment response. Despite the demonstrated success of venetoclax (VEN)-based therapy for AML, the effect of FLT3 mutations on the efficacy of the therapy is poorly understood. We aimed to compare the efficacy of VEN-based therapy between FLT3-mutated (FLT3mut ) and FLT3 wild-type (FLT3wt ) patients and identify the predictors of efficacy in FLT3mut patients. METHODS: A total of 266 AML patients (127 newly diagnosed [ND] and 139 refractory/relapsed [R/R]) receiving VEN-based regimens were enrolled in this study. A retrospective analysis was performed, and the treatment responses and overall survival (OS) of FLT3mut and FLT3wt patients were compared. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model were applied to examine the clinical and genetic predictors of outcomes. RESULTS: With a median of two cycles of VEN-based therapy, for the ND AML cohort, the FLT3mut group had a comparable composite complete remission (CRc) rate with the FLT3wt group (79.3% vs. 61.2%, p = 0.072). For the R/R AML cohort, the FLT3mut group exhibited a lower CRc rate than the FLT3wt group. With a median follow-up of 8.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.0-10), the median OS observed in the FLT3mut and FLT3wt groups for both cohorts were close (14.0 vs. 19.9 months, p = 0.356; 10.0 vs. 11.9 months, p = 0.680). For the ND AML cohort, in FLT3mut patients, MRD-positive and RNA-splicing mutation predicted inferior survival (hazard ratio [HR], 10.3; 95% CI: 2.0-53.8; p = 0.006; HR 11.3; 95% CI: 1.2-109.3; p = 0.036, respectively). For the R/R AML cohort, in FLT3mut patients, adverse ELN risk was associated with an inferior response (odds ratio [OR], 0.2; 95% CI: 0.1-0.8; p = 0.025), whereas NPM1 co-mutation was associated with a superior response (57.1%; OR, 6.7; 95% CI: 1.5-30.1; p = 0.014). CR/CRi predicted a better survival (HR 0.2; 95% CI: 0.1-0.8; p = 0.029), while DNMT3A mutation predicted an inferior survival (HR, 4.6; 95% CI: 1.4-14.9; p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: FLT3 mutations may influence response to VEN-based therapy in R/R AML patients but not in ND AML patients. Furthermore, clinical and genetic characteristics could predict outcomes of FLT3mut patients receiving VEN-based therapy.

Meta-analysis of traditional Chinese medicine on chronic kidney disease.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). METHODS: Databases were used for literature research until 16 December 2022, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Embase. After full-text screening, data were extracted by two researchers independently. The Cochrane ROB tool was applied for quality assessment. The heterogeneity was tested using the Chi-squared-based Q statistic test and the I2 statistic. RESULTS: The findings revealed that the use of TCM significantly improved the total effective rate (pooled odds ratio (OR) = 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [1.15, 1.57]), reduced the serum creatinine (SCr) level (pooled mean difference (MD) = -0.11, 95% CI = [-0.20, -0.03]), and increased the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, pooled MD = 3.76, 95% CI = [2.66, 4.87]) in patients with CKD, compared with non-TCM treatment. Meanwhile, TCM performed better effect on 24-h proteinuria (pooled MD = 0.17, 95% CI = [0.04, 0.31]) than non-TCM. No significant difference in the incidence of adverse events was found between TCM and non-TCM treatment (pooled OR = 0.63, 95% CI = [0.32, 1.24]). Sensitivity analysis demonstrated the stability of the pooled estimates. CONCLUSION: TCM has the advantage over non-TCM treatment and is worth popularizing and applying in the prevention and cure of CKD. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42021279281.

Transcriptome Analysis Provides Insights into Catalpol Biosynthesis in the Medicinal Plant Rehmannia glutinosa and the Functional Characterization of RgGES Genes.

Rehmannia glutinosa, a member of the Scrophulariaceae family, has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine since ancient times. The main bioactive component of R. glutinosa is catalpol. However, the biogenesis of catalpol, especially its downstream pathway, remains unclear. To identify candidate genes involved in the biosynthesis of catalpol, transcriptomes were constructed from R. glutinosa using the young leaves of three cultivars, Beijing No. 3, Huaifeng, and Jin No. 9, as well as the tuberous roots and adventitious roots of the Jin No. 9 cultivar. As a result, 71,142 unigenes with functional annotations were generated. A comparative analysis of the R. glutinosa transcriptomes identified over 200 unigenes of 13 enzymes potentially involved in the downstream steps of catalpol formation, including 9 genes encoding UGTs, 13 for aldehyde dehydrogenases, 70 for oxidoreductases, 44 for CYP450s, 22 for dehydratases, 30 for decarboxylases, 19 for hydroxylases, and 10 for epoxidases. Moreover, two novel genes encoding geraniol synthase (RgGES), which is the first committed enzyme in catalpol production, were cloned from R. glutinosa. The purified recombinant proteins of RgGESs effectively converted GPP to geraniol. This study is the first to discover putative genes coding the tailoring enzymes mentioned above in catalpol biosynthesis, and functionally characterize the enzyme-coding gene in this pathway in R. glutinosa. The results enrich genetic resources for engineering the biosynthetic pathway of catalpol and iridoids.