Background Heat stress(HS)is posing as a tremendous threat to the swine industry,due to the thermos-sensitive gonads of boars.Testes are immune-privileged organs in which spermatogenesis needs to remain undisturbed,wh...Background Heat stress(HS)is posing as a tremendous threat to the swine industry,due to the thermos-sensitive gonads of boars.Testes are immune-privileged organs in which spermatogenesis needs to remain undisturbed,whereas immune cells are thermo-sensitive,especially macrophages,which are the most abundant testicular immune cells.Our study aimed to unveil the underlying immune responses and assess their consequences on the semen quality of boars under HS.The results will aid in addressing environmental temperature-related seasonal infertility and in selecting the best boar for use in artificial insemination.Methods The 3-week experiment assigned 268-week-old Rongchang male pigs into thermal neutral pair-feed(TN-PF)and HS groups.During the last 2 weeks,which served as the HS period,the HS group was subjected to 14-day 35±1℃,while the TN-PF group was kept at 26±1℃.Pig gonad tissues were sampled at the end of HS period for assessments and measurements.Results Our findings confirmed HS-related reactions such as elevated respiration rate(P<0.05)and elevated heat shock protein 60(HSP60;P<0.05)and heat shock protein 90(HSP90;P<0.05)expression levels.Sperm motility(P=0.06)and progressive sperms(P=0.08)were decreased under HS as was a significant reduction in average straight-line velocity(VSL;P<0.05).Additionally,total abnormality levels increased(P<0.05).Fibrosis,caspase-3 expression,and accumulations of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α;P<0.05)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β;P<0.05),along with an elevated macrophage composition(P<0.05)characterized the orchitis under HS.Single cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)revealed fluctuations in engulfing and inflammatory signals in testicular macrophages(TMs).In particular,the complement cascade was promoted by CD163+macrophages,resulting in membrane attack complex(C5b-9)assembly(P<0.05).Linear regressions further revealed a negative correlation between C5b-9 and sperm motility(P<0.05),as well as near-negative correlations between the C5b-9 and both progressive motility(P=0.08)and VSL(P=0.06).Conclusions Our findings highlighted the relationship between HS,the onset of orchitis,and the activation of the complement system,all of which decreased the boar semen quality.展开更多
Osteoarthritis is an aging-related systemic disease involving the crosstalk of multiple organsissues in metabolism and inflammation,yet little is known about the contribution of liver and marrow adipose tissue(MAT).He...Osteoarthritis is an aging-related systemic disease involving the crosstalk of multiple organsissues in metabolism and inflammation,yet little is known about the contribution of liver and marrow adipose tissue(MAT).Here we show that MAT-derived complement factor D(CFD)and component 3(C3)derived from steatotic liver coordinately drive excessive alternative complement activation,resulting in cartilage damage in mice during aging and metabolic disorders.Mechanistically,estrogen-related receptorα(ESRRA)transcriptionally upregulates CFD responding to bone marrow adipocytes(BMAds)expansion.Inhibition of ESRRA/CFD signaling in BMAds blocks the chondrocyte senescence and catabolism triggered by C3 that is released from steatotic hepatocyte,interrupting C3-CFD-MAC cascade,thereby suppressing ERK1/2 phosphorylation and mitochondrial dysfunction.Adipocyte-specific ablation or pharmacological inhibition of ESRRA reduces CFD levels particularly in adipocyte-rich bone marrow,attenuating osteoarthritis progression in aged mice.Our findings highlight a key liver-MAT-cartilage axis bridged by C3-CFD-MAC pathway,raising the potential for adipocyte ESRRA-targeting therapies for aging-related metabolic osteoarthritis.展开更多
Engineered bacteriophages(phages)have been developed to overcome the limitations of natural phage therapies and serve as precision-targeted agents against drug-resistant bacterial infections.However,their application ...Engineered bacteriophages(phages)have been developed to overcome the limitations of natural phage therapies and serve as precision-targeted agents against drug-resistant bacterial infections.However,their application has been constrained by the low efficiency of existing genome-editing tools,largely because of the absence of effective selection markers.This study proposed a novel strategy,termed defect-complementation homologous recombination(DCHR),for precise phage genome editing.In this approach,CRISPR-Cas9 cleaves a donor plasmid in host cells to release a linear donor template carrying homology arms,an essential phage gene used as a selection marker,and two lox sites.The donor template undergoes homologous recombination with the genome of essential gene-deficient phage,thereby enabling targeted genome modifications.Using DCHR,we successfully generated large genomic deletions(1.48-kb gp0.4–0.7 and 1.02-kb gp4.3–4.7),achieved gene insertion(3.08-kb lacZ),and introduced a single-base substitution(TGA to TAA)in the stop codon of gp9 within the same T7 phage genome,all with 100%accuracy.The significant advantages of DCHR are as follows:(i)High-efficiency screening:Only progeny phages derived from successful homologous recombination retain viability and replicative capacity,thereby greatly simplifying recombinant isolation.(ii)Editing flexibility:Unlike CRISPR-Cas systems,DCHR cannot be constrained by protospacer adjacent motif dependence and allows modifications across diverse genomic loci.(iii)High recombination efficiency:DCHR can achieve a recombinant phage titer of 3.1×105 PFU mL−1(plaque-forming units per mL)without relying on exogenous homologous recombination systems.In summary,DCHR demonstrates potential as a precise and efficient general genome-editing tool that facilitates design of engineered phages and advances functional genomic studies.展开更多
Activation of spinal cord neural stem cells(NSCs)and subsequent neurogenesis holds a promising alternative for spinal cord injury(SCI)repair.Our previous study demonstrated that complement C3a,derived from reactive as...Activation of spinal cord neural stem cells(NSCs)and subsequent neurogenesis holds a promising alternative for spinal cord injury(SCI)repair.Our previous study demonstrated that complement C3a,derived from reactive astrocytes,inhibits NSC proliferation by suppressing protein aggregate clearance through the deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1(UCHL1)-proteasome system post-SCI.However,the potential molecular mechanism by which C3a modulates NSC activation via this pathway remains unclear.Here,we revealed that C3a/C3a receptor(C3aR)signaling activated NF-κB p65,which in turn inhibited Nrf2 activity and UCHL1 expression,resulting in diminished proteasome activity and the accumulation of protein aggregates,and ultimately impaired NSC activation.Both knockdown of NF-κB p65 and Nrf2 upregulation restored UCHL1 expression and proteasome activity in vitro,promoting NSC activation by enhancing protein aggregate clearance.Mechanistically,we found that NF-κB p65 regulated Nrf2 activity through a dual mechanism:(1)promoting Keap1-dependent ubiquitination and proteasome degradation of Nrf2;(2)inhibiting protein kinase C-mediated Nrf2 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation.Using the dual-luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChIP)analysis,we further identified UCHL1 as a direct transcriptional target of Nrf2.Importantly,in vivo experiments using SCI mice confirmed that either C3aR blockade,NF-κB p65 knockdown,or Nrf2 overexpression could rescue SCI-induced UCHL1 downregulation.Together,this study uncovers the C3a-NF-κB p65-Nrf2-UCHL1-proteasome axis as a critical regulator of NSC activation after SCI.This may provide novel molecular targets and intervention strategies for SCI repair.展开更多
BACKGROUND The clinical co-occurrence of periodontitis and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament(OPLL)suggests shared pathophysiological mechanisms,which remain poorly understood.AIM To elucidate the key...BACKGROUND The clinical co-occurrence of periodontitis and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament(OPLL)suggests shared pathophysiological mechanisms,which remain poorly understood.AIM To elucidate the key molecular and cellular mechanisms between periodontitis and OPLL.METHODS Transcriptomic datasets for human periodontitis and OPLL were integrated.We performed differential gene expression analysis,weighted gene co-expression network analysis,and cross-dataset meta-analysis.A comprehensive machine learning framework incorporating 10 algorithms was applied to identify core genes,with model interpretability assessed via SHapley Additive exPlanations.Single-cell RNA sequencing data from periodontitis tissues were used to validate cell-type-specific expression,and functional enrichment analyses were conducted to elucidate relevant pathways.RESULTS Multi-step analysis identified complement factor I(CFI)as a principal contributor to both conditions.CFI expression was consistently upregulated and demonstrated strong discriminatory capacity for periodontitis.At single-cell resolution,endothelial cells within the periodontitis microenvironment were observed to express CFI.Functional enrichment analysis indicated that CFI-positive cells were involved in pathways related to cell adhesion(focal adhesion,adherens junctions),inflammatory signaling(PI3K-Akt pathway),and bacterial infection responses.CONCLUSION CFI was identified as a pivotal node connecting periodontitis and OPLL,revealing novel mechanisms and suggesting its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target.展开更多
Background:Diabetic foot ulcers(DFU),perpetually trapped in a vicious cycle of inflammation and ischemia,remain a significant clinical challenge.Exosomes(Exo)therapy holds promise for tissue repair,yet its functional ...Background:Diabetic foot ulcers(DFU),perpetually trapped in a vicious cycle of inflammation and ischemia,remain a significant clinical challenge.Exosomes(Exo)therapy holds promise for tissue repair,yet its functional potency and delivery efficiency are often limited.Methods:We proposed an integrated strategy combining trace elements(TE)programming,Exo engineering,and intelligent delivery to overcome both functional and delivery constraints.Multiple TE(Fe,Mg,Zn,Mn,and Se)were incorporated into a three-dimensional(3D)dynamic culture system to construct high-activity engineered Exo(3D-TE-Exo).The biological mechanisms were explored via transcriptomics,mitochondrial function assays,and oxidative stress analyses.A dual-network hydrogel,incorporating dynamic Schiff base bonds and ultraviolet(UV)-triggered disulfide bond reorganization,was developed for precise and sustained Exo release in vivo.Results:3D-TE-Exo achieved a yield of 1.9×1012particles/ml,representing a 29-fold increase over conventional culture(6.5×1010particles/ml).These Exo modulated the complement pathway,restored mitochondrial membrane potential,enhanced adenosine triphosphate(ATP)production,and activated autophagy,thereby alleviating oxidative stress,with complement 1q binding protein(C1QBP)identified as a key mediator.The hydrogel enabled prolonged Exo retention and controlled release at the wound site.In DFU rat models,this system achieved 89.71%wound closure by day 14,significantly higher than the 50.64%observed in controls.Conclusions:This study presents a synergistic approach integrating engineered Exo and smart biomaterials to accelerate DFU healing.The platform offers a multi-target intervention strategy with strong translational potential for the clinical management of chronic wounds.展开更多
Insects represent emerging sources of bioactive peptides and functional materials.Mantidis Oötheca(Sang-Piao-Xiao in Chinese,SPX)serves as an insect-derived medicine for treating kidney disease.This study demonst...Insects represent emerging sources of bioactive peptides and functional materials.Mantidis Oötheca(Sang-Piao-Xiao in Chinese,SPX)serves as an insect-derived medicine for treating kidney disease.This study demonstrated that supernatant(SPX)improved kidney function in adriamycin(ADR)-induced nephropathy mice model.Transcriptomic analysis revealed that SPX inhibited complement activation by targeting the MASP1-C3/C3a receptor(C3aR)pathway.Peptidomic analysis identified 304 peptides from SPX,with 49 peptides selected for evaluation using prediction tools and molecular docking with complement core protein C3.Three peptides(PMGFPFDR,FNDPK,AAQFFNR)exhibiting docking scores below-8.0 were synthesized to verify complement inhibition and anti-fibrotic activities.The synthetic peptide AAQFFNR demonstrated complement inhibitory activity,with an inhibitory complement hemolytic 50%(ICH50)value of 24.54μmol·L-1,and exhibited superior protective effects in ADR-induced HK-2 cells.Surface plasmon resonance(SPR)assay revealed direct interaction between AAQFFNR and complement C3 with Kdvalue of 16.8μmol·L-1.The reno-protective effect of AAQFFNR was subsequently verified in ADR-induced mice.This research provides initial evidence that complement C3-inhibiting peptides from insects demonstrate potential in preventing nephropathy through in silico and in vivo validation approaches.展开更多
Background:Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a typical inflammatory bowel disease requiring long-term management.Although fecal calprotectin(FC)is widely employed for assessing disease activity,it is still considered insuffici...Background:Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a typical inflammatory bowel disease requiring long-term management.Although fecal calprotectin(FC)is widely employed for assessing disease activity,it is still considered insufficient as a standalone tool.New biomarkers are needed to better predict risk and comprehensively reflect biological pathways.This study aimed to identify potential fecal biomarkers to monitor disease activity in UC.Methods:C57BL/6J mice were exposed to dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)treatment for 7 days.Feces were collected and subjected to proteomic analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Mouse colon tissues were subjected to histopathological and immunofluorescence analyses.The correlations between the selected fecal proteins and disease severity were evaluated and compared with FC.Results:Proteomic analysis revealed increases in fecal complement component 3(C3)and fibronectin(FN)in the DSS group.Next,we measured fecal C3 and FN levels in mice using ELISA.Significant elevation in C3 and FN levels was observed as early as day 1 after DSS treatment,preceding the increase in FC.Both fecal C3 and FN demonstrated significant correlations with disease activity,with C3 exhibiting a stronger correlation than FC.Using immunofluorescence,we observed distinct C3 and FN expressions in both the colonic tissues and the intestinal lumen.Conclusion:These findings demonstrate that fecal C3 and FN are promising candidate biomarkers for monitoring UC disease activity,and their utility requires further validation in other colitis models and human cohorts.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease for which effective therapies are lacking.Niu Huang(NH)is a traditional Chinese medicine used for inflammatory disorders.However,its protective ...BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease for which effective therapies are lacking.Niu Huang(NH)is a traditional Chinese medicine used for inflammatory disorders.However,its protective effect on UC and its underlying mechanisms are unknown.AIM To uncover the mechanisms underlying the anti-colitis effects of the NH.METHODS Network pharmacology was applied to predict the active ingredients and targets of NH.Experimental validation was conducted in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis model.The therapeutic efficacy was assessed using symptoms,histopathology,quantitative polymerase chain reaction,western blotting,immunohistochemistry and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay,while the underlying mechanism was investigated through integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses.In addition,the critical role of farnesoid X receptor(FXR)in mediating the effects of NH was validated using the FXR inhibitor guggulsterone and Fxr-/-mouse models.RESULTS Network pharmacology revealed that the bioactive component of NH is bile acid.Our animal experiments demonstrated that NH treatment significantly alleviated colitis symptoms and pathological damage.NH preserved intestinal mucosal integrity by upregulating occludin,claudin3,E-cadherin and leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 expression.Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed that bile secretion,the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway and the complement and coagulation cascade pathway are key targets of NH.Western blotting confirmed that NH increased FXR levels and reduced P65,complement component 3(C3)and NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)expression.Furthermore,experiments using Fxr-/-mice and the FXR antagonist revealed that FXR is a pivotal target through which NH attenuates UC.Mechanistic analysis revealed that the effects of NH on UC are mediated by the modulation of targets involved in the activation of FXR and the subsequent inhibition of C3/NLRP3 activation.CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the therapeutic effects of NH on UC.Mechanistically,NH acts by activating FXR,which subsequently inhibits the nuclear factor kappa B pathway to reduce C3 accumulation and suppress excessive NLRP3 inflammasome activation in colon tissue.展开更多
BACKGROUND Complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy(TMA)is a rare endothelial injury syndrome caused by dysregulated activation of the alternative complement pathway,often linked to genetic abnormalities in comp...BACKGROUND Complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy(TMA)is a rare endothelial injury syndrome caused by dysregulated activation of the alternative complement pathway,often linked to genetic abnormalities in complement factor H(CFH),complement factor I,or complement factor H-related(CFHR)proteins.Both renal transplantation and pregnancy are independent triggers for recurrence.This case highlights a genetically high-risk patient who achieved a successful term pregnancy after renal transplantation without complement inhibition,emphasizing individualized risk stratification,close surveillance,and multidisciplinary management for favourable maternal and graft outcomes.CASE SUMMARY A 32-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease secondary to genetically confirmed complement-mediated TMA—homozygous CFH exon 17 deletion and CFHR3-CFHR1 duplication—was maintained on dialysis for 2.5 years before undergoing a successful live-donor kidney transplant from her mother.Post-transplant immunosuppression included tacrolimus,mycophenolate mofetil,and prednisolone,later modified to azathioprine during pregnancy planning.One-year post-transplant,she conceived spontaneously.Pregnancy was complicated by transient gestational hypertension,controlled with nifedipine,labetalol,and amlodipine.Proteinuria remained<150 mg/day;white blood cell counts 5.8-7.2×109/L without cytopenia.Serum creatinine ranged 0.9-1.1 mg/dL,and tacrolimus trough levels 5-7 ng/mL.At 36 weeks,she delivered a healthy 3 kg infant by elective caesarean section.Postpartum follow-up at three months confirmed stable maternal and graft function.CONCLUSION High-risk complement-mediated TMA patients can achieve successful pregnancy post-transplant through individualized care without mandatory complement blockade.展开更多
The adjacency matrix A(G)of a connected simple graph G is a symmetric(0,1)-matrix with real eigenvalues λ1≥λ2≥…≥λn.The maximum eigenvalueλ1 is called the spectral radius of G.In this paper,we characte...The adjacency matrix A(G)of a connected simple graph G is a symmetric(0,1)-matrix with real eigenvalues λ1≥λ2≥…≥λn.The maximum eigenvalueλ1 is called the spectral radius of G.In this paper,we characterize the extremal graphs that attain the maximum or minimum spectral radii among all graph complements in the family of graphs with cut vertices.展开更多
Repetitive traumatic brain injury impacts adult neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus,leading to long-term cognitive impairment.However,the mechanism underlying this neurogenesis impairment remains unknown.In ...Repetitive traumatic brain injury impacts adult neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus,leading to long-term cognitive impairment.However,the mechanism underlying this neurogenesis impairment remains unknown.In this study,we established a male mouse model of repetitive traumatic brain injury and performed long-term evaluation of neurogenesis of the hippocampal dentate gyrus after repetitive traumatic brain injury.Our results showed that repetitive traumatic brain injury inhibited neural stem cell proliferation and development,delayed neuronal maturation,and reduced the complexity of neuronal dendrites and spines.Mice with repetitive traumatic brain injuryalso showed deficits in spatial memory retrieval.Moreover,following repetitive traumatic brain injury,neuroinflammation was enhanced in the neurogenesis microenvironment where C1q levels were increased,C1q binding protein levels were decreased,and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling was downregulated.An inhibitor of C1 reversed the long-term impairment of neurogenesis induced by repetitive traumatic brain injury and improved neurological function.These findings suggest that repetitive traumatic brain injury–induced C1-related inflammation impairs long-term neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and contributes to spatial memory retrieval dysfunction.展开更多
Spinal cord injury remains a major cause of disability in young adults,and beyond acute decompression and rehabilitation,there are no pharmacological treatments to limit the progression of injury and optimize recovery...Spinal cord injury remains a major cause of disability in young adults,and beyond acute decompression and rehabilitation,there are no pharmacological treatments to limit the progression of injury and optimize recovery in this population.Following the thorough investigation of the complement system in triggering and propagating cerebral neuroinflammation,a similar role for complement in spinal neuroinflammation is a focus of ongoing research.In this work,we survey the current literature investigating the role of complement in spinal cord injury including the sources of complement proteins,triggers of complement activation,and role of effector functions in the pathology.We study relevant data demonstrating the different triggers of complement activation after spinal cord injury including direct binding to cellular debris,and or activation via antibody binding to damage-associated molecular patterns.Several effector functions of complement have been implicated in spinal cord injury,and we critically evaluate recent studies on the dual role of complement anaphylatoxins in spinal cord injury while emphasizing the lack of pathophysiological understanding of the role of opsonins in spinal cord injury.Following this pathophysiological review,we systematically review the different translational approaches used in preclinical models of spinal cord injury and discuss the challenges for future translation into human subjects.This review emphasizes the need for future studies to dissect the roles of different complement pathways in the pathology of spinal cord injury,to evaluate the phases of involvement of opsonins and anaphylatoxins,and to study the role of complement in white matter degeneration and regeneration using translational strategies to supplement genetic models.展开更多
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)surveillance is crucial for patients with compensated cirrhosis(CC)and decompensated cirrhosis(DC).Increasing evidence has revealed a connection between thyroid hormone(TH)and H...BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)surveillance is crucial for patients with compensated cirrhosis(CC)and decompensated cirrhosis(DC).Increasing evidence has revealed a connection between thyroid hormone(TH)and HCC,although this relationship remains contentious.Complements and immunoglobulin(Ig),which serve as surrogates of cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunc-tion,are associated with the severity and outcomes of liver cirrhosis(LC).To date,there is a lack of evidence supporting the recommendation of TH,Ig,and com-plement tests in patients at high risk of HCC.AIM To assess the predictive value of TH,Ig,and complements for HCC development.METHODS Data from 142 patients,comprising 72 patients with CC and 70 patients with DC,were analysed as a training set.Among them,100 patients who underwent complement and Ig tests were considered for internal validation.Logistic regression was employed to identify independent risk factors for HCC development.RESULTS The median follow-up duration was 32(24-37 months)months.The incidence of HCC was significantly higher in the DC group(16/70,22.9%)compared to the CC group(3/72,4.2%)(χ2=10.698,P<0.01).Patients with DC exhibited lower total tetraiodothyronine(TT4),total triiodothyronine(TT3),free triiodothyronine,complement C3,and C4(all P<0.01),and higher IgA and IgG(both P<0.01).In both CC and DC patients,TT3 and TT4 positively correlated with alanine transaminase(ALT),aspartate transaminase(AST),and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase(GGT).IgG positively correlated with IgM,IgA,ALT,and AST,while it negatively correlated with C3 and C4.Multivariable analysis indicated that age,DC status,and GGT were independent risk factors for HCC development.CONCLUSION The predictive value of TH,Ig,and complements for HCC development is suboptimal.Age,DC,and GGT emerge as more significant factors during HCC surveillance in hepatitis B virus-related LC.展开更多
Objectives:Colorectal cancer(CRC)remains a major contributor to global cancer mortality,ranking second worldwide for cancer-related deaths in 2022,and is characterized by marked heterogeneity in prognosis and therapeu...Objectives:Colorectal cancer(CRC)remains a major contributor to global cancer mortality,ranking second worldwide for cancer-related deaths in 2022,and is characterized by marked heterogeneity in prognosis and therapeutic response.We sought to construct a machine-learning prognosticmodel based on a complement-related risk signature(CRRS)and to situate this signature within the CRC immune microenvironment.Methods:Transcriptomic profiles with matched clinical annotations from TCGA and GEO CRC cohorts were analyzed.Prognostic CRRS genes were screened using Cox proportional hazards modeling alongside machine-learning procedures.A random survival forest(RSF)predictor was trained and externally validated.Comparisons of immune infiltration,mutational burden,pathway enrichment,and drug sensitivity were made between risk groups.The function of FAM84A,a key model gene,was examined in CRC cell lines.Results:The six-gene CRRS model accurately stratified patients by survival outcomes.Low-risk patients exhibited greater immune cell infiltration and higher predicted response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy,while high-risk patients showed enrichment of complement activation and matrix remodeling pathways.FAM84A was shown to promote CRC cell proliferation,migration,and epithelial–mesenchymal transition.Conclusion:CRRS is a critical modulator of the CRC immune microenvironment.The developed model enables precise risk prediction and supports individualized therapeutic decisions in CRC.展开更多
We deal with the properties of incompressible and pairwise incompressible surfaces in knot complements through the application of relevant properties of almost simple topological graphs.We analyze the topological grap...We deal with the properties of incompressible and pairwise incompressible surfaces in knot complements through the application of relevant properties of almost simple topological graphs.We analyze the topological graph invariants associated with surfaces embedded in the complements of alternating and almost alternating knots.Specifically,we prove that the characteristic numbers of these graphs remain invariant under two fundamental transformations(R-move and S2-move).Leveraging the interplay between characteristic numbers and Euler characteristics,and further connecting Euler characteristics to surface genus,we derive novel results regarding the genus of incompressible pairwise incompressible surfaces.Additionally,we establish a discriminant criterion to determine when such surfaces in knot complements admit genus zero.展开更多
The complement system is crucial for maintaining immunological homeostasis in the liver,playing a significant role in both innate and adaptive immune responses.Dysregulation of this system is closely linked to the pat...The complement system is crucial for maintaining immunological homeostasis in the liver,playing a significant role in both innate and adaptive immune responses.Dysregulation of this system is closely linked to the pathogenesis of various liver diseases.Modulating the complement system can affect the progression of these conditions.To provide insights into treating liver injury by targeting the regu-lation of the complement system,we conducted a comprehensive search of major biomedical databases,including MEDLINE,PubMed,EMBASE,and Web of Science,to identify articles on complement and liver injury and reviewed the functions and mechanisms of the complement system in liver injury.展开更多
Antibody-mediated rejection(AMR)represents a major challenge in kidney transplantation,significantly contributing to tissue injury and graft failure.AMR is primarily driven by donor-specific alloantibodies(DSAs),which...Antibody-mediated rejection(AMR)represents a major challenge in kidney transplantation,significantly contributing to tissue injury and graft failure.AMR is primarily driven by donor-specific alloantibodies(DSAs),which recognize and bind to specific target antigens present within the transplanted kidney tissue.Upon binding,these DSAs commonly initiate activation of the complement system within the graft.The activation of the complement cascade sets off a powerful inflammatory response characterized by the recruitment and activation of immune cells,endothelial damage,and subsequent tissue injury.This inflammation underlies many clinical and histological manifestations of AMR,making complement activation a critical player in the disease process.Advancements in our understanding of how complement pathways contribute to kidney graft injury have opened new avenues for therapeutic intervention.Recent research has facilitated the development and application of novel therapies specifically designed to inhibit complement activation.Such targeted complement-inhibitory strategies have shown promise in improving graft outcomes by inhibiting complement-mediated damage and extending graft survival.This review comprehensively discusses the critical role of complement activation in inducing kidney graft injury with a focus on its role in AMR.By elucidating the detailed mechanisms and contributions of complement pathways,the review seeks to enhance the understanding necessary for developing targeted therapeutic interventions to prevent or treat AMR effectively.展开更多
Background:Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy(ALPPS)is an important surgical treatment for unresectable liver tumors,while with its mechanism remaining unclear.We aim to compre...Background:Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy(ALPPS)is an important surgical treatment for unresectable liver tumors,while with its mechanism remaining unclear.We aim to comprehensively examine the key immune cells that induce the rapid liver regeneration during the ALPPS procedure and unearth the relevant mechanism(s)in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Methods:Matched ALPPS stage Ⅰ and Ⅱ liver tissues were collected from five HCC patients and subjected to cytometry by time-of-flight(CyTOF)and single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)analysis.Peripheral blood samples were collected during subsequent routine clinical examinations to explore the dynamic changes in circulating immune cells and cytokines.The changes in the transcription profiles of liver tissues between ALPPS stage Ⅰ and Ⅱ were explored by bulk RNA-seq analysis.Tissue microarrays containing paired tissues from another 22 HCC patients who underwent ALPPS were constructed for validation.Results:The CyTOF data revealed an increase in tissue monocytes during the ALPPS-induced liver regeneration(from 13.36%to 29.78%,P=0.04).There was also a shift from a macrophage-enriched to monocyte-enriched local immune environment in the remnant liver tissues induced by ALPPS.The scRNA-seq analysis identified that a cluster of THBS1+tissue monocytes was significantly enriched in the regenerated liver tissues in all three patients,with high expression of epiregulin(EREG).Further analysis indicated that THBS1+tissue monocytes promote hepatocyte proliferation via EREG-epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)interactions.The secretion of C5a by hepatocytes could recruit THBS1+tissue monocytes via the C5a/C5aR1 interaction.The functions of EREG and C5a have been verified in vitro and in vivo.Conclusions:The ALPPS procedure induced activation of the complement system in hepatocytes,specifically increasing the expression of C5a,which led to the recruitment of THBS1+tissue monocytes through the C5a/C5aR1 interaction.These monocytes then secrete EREG to promote hepatocyte proliferation in the residual liver.展开更多
基金supported by the Projects of The National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20255)Strategic Priority Research Program of the National Center of Technology Innovation for Pigs(NCTIPXD/B04)+3 种基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(32573270)The National Natural Science Foundation of China(3227291)National Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System Sichuan Pig innovation team(SCSZTD-2024-08)the National Key R&D Program of China(2023YFD1300804)。
摘要Background Heat stress(HS)is posing as a tremendous threat to the swine industry,due to the thermos-sensitive gonads of boars.Testes are immune-privileged organs in which spermatogenesis needs to remain undisturbed,whereas immune cells are thermo-sensitive,especially macrophages,which are the most abundant testicular immune cells.Our study aimed to unveil the underlying immune responses and assess their consequences on the semen quality of boars under HS.The results will aid in addressing environmental temperature-related seasonal infertility and in selecting the best boar for use in artificial insemination.Methods The 3-week experiment assigned 268-week-old Rongchang male pigs into thermal neutral pair-feed(TN-PF)and HS groups.During the last 2 weeks,which served as the HS period,the HS group was subjected to 14-day 35±1℃,while the TN-PF group was kept at 26±1℃.Pig gonad tissues were sampled at the end of HS period for assessments and measurements.Results Our findings confirmed HS-related reactions such as elevated respiration rate(P<0.05)and elevated heat shock protein 60(HSP60;P<0.05)and heat shock protein 90(HSP90;P<0.05)expression levels.Sperm motility(P=0.06)and progressive sperms(P=0.08)were decreased under HS as was a significant reduction in average straight-line velocity(VSL;P<0.05).Additionally,total abnormality levels increased(P<0.05).Fibrosis,caspase-3 expression,and accumulations of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α;P<0.05)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β;P<0.05),along with an elevated macrophage composition(P<0.05)characterized the orchitis under HS.Single cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)revealed fluctuations in engulfing and inflammatory signals in testicular macrophages(TMs).In particular,the complement cascade was promoted by CD163+macrophages,resulting in membrane attack complex(C5b-9)assembly(P<0.05).Linear regressions further revealed a negative correlation between C5b-9 and sperm motility(P<0.05),as well as near-negative correlations between the C5b-9 and both progressive motility(P=0.08)and VSL(P=0.06).Conclusions Our findings highlighted the relationship between HS,the onset of orchitis,and the activation of the complement system,all of which decreased the boar semen quality.
基金supported in part by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFB3810200)Shenzhen Medical Research Fund(D2301004)+4 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(82372464,82072493 and 82402878)Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(JCYJ20240813154919025,JCYJ20240813154916021,SYSPG20241211173922057)CAS Interdisciplinary Team of“Light of West China”Program(xbzg-zdsys-202405)Open Project of State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Natural Medicines(P2025-KF03)Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2023A1515110143).
摘要Osteoarthritis is an aging-related systemic disease involving the crosstalk of multiple organsissues in metabolism and inflammation,yet little is known about the contribution of liver and marrow adipose tissue(MAT).Here we show that MAT-derived complement factor D(CFD)and component 3(C3)derived from steatotic liver coordinately drive excessive alternative complement activation,resulting in cartilage damage in mice during aging and metabolic disorders.Mechanistically,estrogen-related receptorα(ESRRA)transcriptionally upregulates CFD responding to bone marrow adipocytes(BMAds)expansion.Inhibition of ESRRA/CFD signaling in BMAds blocks the chondrocyte senescence and catabolism triggered by C3 that is released from steatotic hepatocyte,interrupting C3-CFD-MAC cascade,thereby suppressing ERK1/2 phosphorylation and mitochondrial dysfunction.Adipocyte-specific ablation or pharmacological inhibition of ESRRA reduces CFD levels particularly in adipocyte-rich bone marrow,attenuating osteoarthritis progression in aged mice.Our findings highlight a key liver-MAT-cartilage axis bridged by C3-CFD-MAC pathway,raising the potential for adipocyte ESRRA-targeting therapies for aging-related metabolic osteoarthritis.
摘要Engineered bacteriophages(phages)have been developed to overcome the limitations of natural phage therapies and serve as precision-targeted agents against drug-resistant bacterial infections.However,their application has been constrained by the low efficiency of existing genome-editing tools,largely because of the absence of effective selection markers.This study proposed a novel strategy,termed defect-complementation homologous recombination(DCHR),for precise phage genome editing.In this approach,CRISPR-Cas9 cleaves a donor plasmid in host cells to release a linear donor template carrying homology arms,an essential phage gene used as a selection marker,and two lox sites.The donor template undergoes homologous recombination with the genome of essential gene-deficient phage,thereby enabling targeted genome modifications.Using DCHR,we successfully generated large genomic deletions(1.48-kb gp0.4–0.7 and 1.02-kb gp4.3–4.7),achieved gene insertion(3.08-kb lacZ),and introduced a single-base substitution(TGA to TAA)in the stop codon of gp9 within the same T7 phage genome,all with 100%accuracy.The significant advantages of DCHR are as follows:(i)High-efficiency screening:Only progeny phages derived from successful homologous recombination retain viability and replicative capacity,thereby greatly simplifying recombinant isolation.(ii)Editing flexibility:Unlike CRISPR-Cas systems,DCHR cannot be constrained by protospacer adjacent motif dependence and allows modifications across diverse genomic loci.(iii)High recombination efficiency:DCHR can achieve a recombinant phage titer of 3.1×105 PFU mL−1(plaque-forming units per mL)without relying on exogenous homologous recombination systems.In summary,DCHR demonstrates potential as a precise and efficient general genome-editing tool that facilitates design of engineered phages and advances functional genomic studies.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82071362 and 82270669)Key Project of the Regional Joint Fund of Guangdong Province(2023B1515120077)+3 种基金Basic Research Program of Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission(JCYJ20210324123001003 and JCYJ20220530144801003)Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Bone Tissue Repair and Translational Research(ZDSYS20230626091402006)the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program for College Students,Sun Yat-sen University(20242150)the Leading Innovation and Entrepreneurship Team Program of Zhejiang Province,China(2023R01005).
摘要Activation of spinal cord neural stem cells(NSCs)and subsequent neurogenesis holds a promising alternative for spinal cord injury(SCI)repair.Our previous study demonstrated that complement C3a,derived from reactive astrocytes,inhibits NSC proliferation by suppressing protein aggregate clearance through the deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1(UCHL1)-proteasome system post-SCI.However,the potential molecular mechanism by which C3a modulates NSC activation via this pathway remains unclear.Here,we revealed that C3a/C3a receptor(C3aR)signaling activated NF-κB p65,which in turn inhibited Nrf2 activity and UCHL1 expression,resulting in diminished proteasome activity and the accumulation of protein aggregates,and ultimately impaired NSC activation.Both knockdown of NF-κB p65 and Nrf2 upregulation restored UCHL1 expression and proteasome activity in vitro,promoting NSC activation by enhancing protein aggregate clearance.Mechanistically,we found that NF-κB p65 regulated Nrf2 activity through a dual mechanism:(1)promoting Keap1-dependent ubiquitination and proteasome degradation of Nrf2;(2)inhibiting protein kinase C-mediated Nrf2 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation.Using the dual-luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation(ChIP)analysis,we further identified UCHL1 as a direct transcriptional target of Nrf2.Importantly,in vivo experiments using SCI mice confirmed that either C3aR blockade,NF-κB p65 knockdown,or Nrf2 overexpression could rescue SCI-induced UCHL1 downregulation.Together,this study uncovers the C3a-NF-κB p65-Nrf2-UCHL1-proteasome axis as a critical regulator of NSC activation after SCI.This may provide novel molecular targets and intervention strategies for SCI repair.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82160536.
摘要BACKGROUND The clinical co-occurrence of periodontitis and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament(OPLL)suggests shared pathophysiological mechanisms,which remain poorly understood.AIM To elucidate the key molecular and cellular mechanisms between periodontitis and OPLL.METHODS Transcriptomic datasets for human periodontitis and OPLL were integrated.We performed differential gene expression analysis,weighted gene co-expression network analysis,and cross-dataset meta-analysis.A comprehensive machine learning framework incorporating 10 algorithms was applied to identify core genes,with model interpretability assessed via SHapley Additive exPlanations.Single-cell RNA sequencing data from periodontitis tissues were used to validate cell-type-specific expression,and functional enrichment analyses were conducted to elucidate relevant pathways.RESULTS Multi-step analysis identified complement factor I(CFI)as a principal contributor to both conditions.CFI expression was consistently upregulated and demonstrated strong discriminatory capacity for periodontitis.At single-cell resolution,endothelial cells within the periodontitis microenvironment were observed to express CFI.Functional enrichment analysis indicated that CFI-positive cells were involved in pathways related to cell adhesion(focal adhesion,adherens junctions),inflammatory signaling(PI3K-Akt pathway),and bacterial infection responses.CONCLUSION CFI was identified as a pivotal node connecting periodontitis and OPLL,revealing novel mechanisms and suggesting its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,Peking Union Medical College (3332025063)the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (CIFMS)(2023-I2M-2–006, China)National Natural Science Foundation of China (82073778, 82104106)
摘要Background:Diabetic foot ulcers(DFU),perpetually trapped in a vicious cycle of inflammation and ischemia,remain a significant clinical challenge.Exosomes(Exo)therapy holds promise for tissue repair,yet its functional potency and delivery efficiency are often limited.Methods:We proposed an integrated strategy combining trace elements(TE)programming,Exo engineering,and intelligent delivery to overcome both functional and delivery constraints.Multiple TE(Fe,Mg,Zn,Mn,and Se)were incorporated into a three-dimensional(3D)dynamic culture system to construct high-activity engineered Exo(3D-TE-Exo).The biological mechanisms were explored via transcriptomics,mitochondrial function assays,and oxidative stress analyses.A dual-network hydrogel,incorporating dynamic Schiff base bonds and ultraviolet(UV)-triggered disulfide bond reorganization,was developed for precise and sustained Exo release in vivo.Results:3D-TE-Exo achieved a yield of 1.9×1012particles/ml,representing a 29-fold increase over conventional culture(6.5×1010particles/ml).These Exo modulated the complement pathway,restored mitochondrial membrane potential,enhanced adenosine triphosphate(ATP)production,and activated autophagy,thereby alleviating oxidative stress,with complement 1q binding protein(C1QBP)identified as a key mediator.The hydrogel enabled prolonged Exo retention and controlled release at the wound site.In DFU rat models,this system achieved 89.71%wound closure by day 14,significantly higher than the 50.64%observed in controls.Conclusions:This study presents a synergistic approach integrating engineered Exo and smart biomaterials to accelerate DFU healing.The platform offers a multi-target intervention strategy with strong translational potential for the clinical management of chronic wounds.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82104353)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation funded project(No.2022M711680).
摘要Insects represent emerging sources of bioactive peptides and functional materials.Mantidis Oötheca(Sang-Piao-Xiao in Chinese,SPX)serves as an insect-derived medicine for treating kidney disease.This study demonstrated that supernatant(SPX)improved kidney function in adriamycin(ADR)-induced nephropathy mice model.Transcriptomic analysis revealed that SPX inhibited complement activation by targeting the MASP1-C3/C3a receptor(C3aR)pathway.Peptidomic analysis identified 304 peptides from SPX,with 49 peptides selected for evaluation using prediction tools and molecular docking with complement core protein C3.Three peptides(PMGFPFDR,FNDPK,AAQFFNR)exhibiting docking scores below-8.0 were synthesized to verify complement inhibition and anti-fibrotic activities.The synthetic peptide AAQFFNR demonstrated complement inhibitory activity,with an inhibitory complement hemolytic 50%(ICH50)value of 24.54μmol·L-1,and exhibited superior protective effects in ADR-induced HK-2 cells.Surface plasmon resonance(SPR)assay revealed direct interaction between AAQFFNR and complement C3 with Kdvalue of 16.8μmol·L-1.The reno-protective effect of AAQFFNR was subsequently verified in ADR-induced mice.This research provides initial evidence that complement C3-inhibiting peptides from insects demonstrate potential in preventing nephropathy through in silico and in vivo validation approaches.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Number:32394054。
摘要Background:Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a typical inflammatory bowel disease requiring long-term management.Although fecal calprotectin(FC)is widely employed for assessing disease activity,it is still considered insufficient as a standalone tool.New biomarkers are needed to better predict risk and comprehensively reflect biological pathways.This study aimed to identify potential fecal biomarkers to monitor disease activity in UC.Methods:C57BL/6J mice were exposed to dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)treatment for 7 days.Feces were collected and subjected to proteomic analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Mouse colon tissues were subjected to histopathological and immunofluorescence analyses.The correlations between the selected fecal proteins and disease severity were evaluated and compared with FC.Results:Proteomic analysis revealed increases in fecal complement component 3(C3)and fibronectin(FN)in the DSS group.Next,we measured fecal C3 and FN levels in mice using ELISA.Significant elevation in C3 and FN levels was observed as early as day 1 after DSS treatment,preceding the increase in FC.Both fecal C3 and FN demonstrated significant correlations with disease activity,with C3 exhibiting a stronger correlation than FC.Using immunofluorescence,we observed distinct C3 and FN expressions in both the colonic tissues and the intestinal lumen.Conclusion:These findings demonstrate that fecal C3 and FN are promising candidate biomarkers for monitoring UC disease activity,and their utility requires further validation in other colitis models and human cohorts.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82374165,No.82405050,and No.82004327Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China,No.3332024017Research Project of Hebei Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.2025086.
摘要BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease for which effective therapies are lacking.Niu Huang(NH)is a traditional Chinese medicine used for inflammatory disorders.However,its protective effect on UC and its underlying mechanisms are unknown.AIM To uncover the mechanisms underlying the anti-colitis effects of the NH.METHODS Network pharmacology was applied to predict the active ingredients and targets of NH.Experimental validation was conducted in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis model.The therapeutic efficacy was assessed using symptoms,histopathology,quantitative polymerase chain reaction,western blotting,immunohistochemistry and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay,while the underlying mechanism was investigated through integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses.In addition,the critical role of farnesoid X receptor(FXR)in mediating the effects of NH was validated using the FXR inhibitor guggulsterone and Fxr-/-mouse models.RESULTS Network pharmacology revealed that the bioactive component of NH is bile acid.Our animal experiments demonstrated that NH treatment significantly alleviated colitis symptoms and pathological damage.NH preserved intestinal mucosal integrity by upregulating occludin,claudin3,E-cadherin and leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 expression.Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed that bile secretion,the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway and the complement and coagulation cascade pathway are key targets of NH.Western blotting confirmed that NH increased FXR levels and reduced P65,complement component 3(C3)and NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)expression.Furthermore,experiments using Fxr-/-mice and the FXR antagonist revealed that FXR is a pivotal target through which NH attenuates UC.Mechanistic analysis revealed that the effects of NH on UC are mediated by the modulation of targets involved in the activation of FXR and the subsequent inhibition of C3/NLRP3 activation.CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the therapeutic effects of NH on UC.Mechanistically,NH acts by activating FXR,which subsequently inhibits the nuclear factor kappa B pathway to reduce C3 accumulation and suppress excessive NLRP3 inflammasome activation in colon tissue.
摘要BACKGROUND Complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy(TMA)is a rare endothelial injury syndrome caused by dysregulated activation of the alternative complement pathway,often linked to genetic abnormalities in complement factor H(CFH),complement factor I,or complement factor H-related(CFHR)proteins.Both renal transplantation and pregnancy are independent triggers for recurrence.This case highlights a genetically high-risk patient who achieved a successful term pregnancy after renal transplantation without complement inhibition,emphasizing individualized risk stratification,close surveillance,and multidisciplinary management for favourable maternal and graft outcomes.CASE SUMMARY A 32-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease secondary to genetically confirmed complement-mediated TMA—homozygous CFH exon 17 deletion and CFHR3-CFHR1 duplication—was maintained on dialysis for 2.5 years before undergoing a successful live-donor kidney transplant from her mother.Post-transplant immunosuppression included tacrolimus,mycophenolate mofetil,and prednisolone,later modified to azathioprine during pregnancy planning.One-year post-transplant,she conceived spontaneously.Pregnancy was complicated by transient gestational hypertension,controlled with nifedipine,labetalol,and amlodipine.Proteinuria remained<150 mg/day;white blood cell counts 5.8-7.2×109/L without cytopenia.Serum creatinine ranged 0.9-1.1 mg/dL,and tacrolimus trough levels 5-7 ng/mL.At 36 weeks,she delivered a healthy 3 kg infant by elective caesarean section.Postpartum follow-up at three months confirmed stable maternal and graft function.CONCLUSION High-risk complement-mediated TMA patients can achieve successful pregnancy post-transplant through individualized care without mandatory complement blockade.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region(Grant No.2024D01B15)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.12561087)。
摘要The adjacency matrix A(G)of a connected simple graph G is a symmetric(0,1)-matrix with real eigenvalues λ1≥λ2≥…≥λn.The maximum eigenvalueλ1 is called the spectral radius of G.In this paper,we characterize the extremal graphs that attain the maximum or minimum spectral radii among all graph complements in the family of graphs with cut vertices.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Program of Shanxi Province of China,No.20210302124277the Science Foundation of Shanxi Bethune Hospital,No.2021YJ13(both to JW)。
摘要Repetitive traumatic brain injury impacts adult neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus,leading to long-term cognitive impairment.However,the mechanism underlying this neurogenesis impairment remains unknown.In this study,we established a male mouse model of repetitive traumatic brain injury and performed long-term evaluation of neurogenesis of the hippocampal dentate gyrus after repetitive traumatic brain injury.Our results showed that repetitive traumatic brain injury inhibited neural stem cell proliferation and development,delayed neuronal maturation,and reduced the complexity of neuronal dendrites and spines.Mice with repetitive traumatic brain injuryalso showed deficits in spatial memory retrieval.Moreover,following repetitive traumatic brain injury,neuroinflammation was enhanced in the neurogenesis microenvironment where C1q levels were increased,C1q binding protein levels were decreased,and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling was downregulated.An inhibitor of C1 reversed the long-term impairment of neurogenesis induced by repetitive traumatic brain injury and improved neurological function.These findings suggest that repetitive traumatic brain injury–induced C1-related inflammation impairs long-term neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and contributes to spatial memory retrieval dysfunction.
基金supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs(VA Merit Award BX004256)(to AMA)Emory Department of Neurosurgery Catalyst GrantEmory Medical Care Foundation Grant(to AMA and JG)。
摘要Spinal cord injury remains a major cause of disability in young adults,and beyond acute decompression and rehabilitation,there are no pharmacological treatments to limit the progression of injury and optimize recovery in this population.Following the thorough investigation of the complement system in triggering and propagating cerebral neuroinflammation,a similar role for complement in spinal neuroinflammation is a focus of ongoing research.In this work,we survey the current literature investigating the role of complement in spinal cord injury including the sources of complement proteins,triggers of complement activation,and role of effector functions in the pathology.We study relevant data demonstrating the different triggers of complement activation after spinal cord injury including direct binding to cellular debris,and or activation via antibody binding to damage-associated molecular patterns.Several effector functions of complement have been implicated in spinal cord injury,and we critically evaluate recent studies on the dual role of complement anaphylatoxins in spinal cord injury while emphasizing the lack of pathophysiological understanding of the role of opsonins in spinal cord injury.Following this pathophysiological review,we systematically review the different translational approaches used in preclinical models of spinal cord injury and discuss the challenges for future translation into human subjects.This review emphasizes the need for future studies to dissect the roles of different complement pathways in the pathology of spinal cord injury,to evaluate the phases of involvement of opsonins and anaphylatoxins,and to study the role of complement in white matter degeneration and regeneration using translational strategies to supplement genetic models.
基金Supported by The Research Foundation of Jiangsu Province Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.MS2023088The Science and Technology Project of Changzhou,No.CE20225040+1 种基金The Research Foundation of Nanjing Medical University Changzhou Medical Center,No.CMCC202311Leading Talent of Changzhou“The 14th Five-Year Plan”High-Level Health Talents Training Project,No.2022CZLJ021.
摘要BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)surveillance is crucial for patients with compensated cirrhosis(CC)and decompensated cirrhosis(DC).Increasing evidence has revealed a connection between thyroid hormone(TH)and HCC,although this relationship remains contentious.Complements and immunoglobulin(Ig),which serve as surrogates of cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunc-tion,are associated with the severity and outcomes of liver cirrhosis(LC).To date,there is a lack of evidence supporting the recommendation of TH,Ig,and com-plement tests in patients at high risk of HCC.AIM To assess the predictive value of TH,Ig,and complements for HCC development.METHODS Data from 142 patients,comprising 72 patients with CC and 70 patients with DC,were analysed as a training set.Among them,100 patients who underwent complement and Ig tests were considered for internal validation.Logistic regression was employed to identify independent risk factors for HCC development.RESULTS The median follow-up duration was 32(24-37 months)months.The incidence of HCC was significantly higher in the DC group(16/70,22.9%)compared to the CC group(3/72,4.2%)(χ2=10.698,P<0.01).Patients with DC exhibited lower total tetraiodothyronine(TT4),total triiodothyronine(TT3),free triiodothyronine,complement C3,and C4(all P<0.01),and higher IgA and IgG(both P<0.01).In both CC and DC patients,TT3 and TT4 positively correlated with alanine transaminase(ALT),aspartate transaminase(AST),and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase(GGT).IgG positively correlated with IgM,IgA,ALT,and AST,while it negatively correlated with C3 and C4.Multivariable analysis indicated that age,DC status,and GGT were independent risk factors for HCC development.CONCLUSION The predictive value of TH,Ig,and complements for HCC development is suboptimal.Age,DC,and GGT emerge as more significant factors during HCC surveillance in hepatitis B virus-related LC.
摘要Objectives:Colorectal cancer(CRC)remains a major contributor to global cancer mortality,ranking second worldwide for cancer-related deaths in 2022,and is characterized by marked heterogeneity in prognosis and therapeutic response.We sought to construct a machine-learning prognosticmodel based on a complement-related risk signature(CRRS)and to situate this signature within the CRC immune microenvironment.Methods:Transcriptomic profiles with matched clinical annotations from TCGA and GEO CRC cohorts were analyzed.Prognostic CRRS genes were screened using Cox proportional hazards modeling alongside machine-learning procedures.A random survival forest(RSF)predictor was trained and externally validated.Comparisons of immune infiltration,mutational burden,pathway enrichment,and drug sensitivity were made between risk groups.The function of FAM84A,a key model gene,was examined in CRC cell lines.Results:The six-gene CRRS model accurately stratified patients by survival outcomes.Low-risk patients exhibited greater immune cell infiltration and higher predicted response to immunotherapy and chemotherapy,while high-risk patients showed enrichment of complement activation and matrix remodeling pathways.FAM84A was shown to promote CRC cell proliferation,migration,and epithelial–mesenchymal transition.Conclusion:CRRS is a critical modulator of the CRC immune microenvironment.The developed model enables precise risk prediction and supports individualized therapeutic decisions in CRC.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.12026411)。
摘要We deal with the properties of incompressible and pairwise incompressible surfaces in knot complements through the application of relevant properties of almost simple topological graphs.We analyze the topological graph invariants associated with surfaces embedded in the complements of alternating and almost alternating knots.Specifically,we prove that the characteristic numbers of these graphs remain invariant under two fundamental transformations(R-move and S2-move).Leveraging the interplay between characteristic numbers and Euler characteristics,and further connecting Euler characteristics to surface genus,we derive novel results regarding the genus of incompressible pairwise incompressible surfaces.Additionally,we establish a discriminant criterion to determine when such surfaces in knot complements admit genus zero.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Planning Projects of Guizhou Province,No.QKHJC-ZK[2022]YB642the Science and Technology Planning Projects of Zunyi City,No.ZSKHHZ(2022)344+4 种基金the WBE Liver Fibrosis Foundation,No.CFHPC2025028the Chinese Foundation for Hepatitis Prevention and Control Muxin Research Fund of CHB,No.MX202404Beijing Liver and Gallbladder Mutual Aid Public Welfare Foundation Artificial Liver Special Fund,No.iGandanF-1082024-Rgg018the Graduate Research Fund Project of Zunyi Medical University,No.ZYK246the Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program of Zunyi Medical University,No.2024106610923 and No.S202310661028.
摘要The complement system is crucial for maintaining immunological homeostasis in the liver,playing a significant role in both innate and adaptive immune responses.Dysregulation of this system is closely linked to the pathogenesis of various liver diseases.Modulating the complement system can affect the progression of these conditions.To provide insights into treating liver injury by targeting the regu-lation of the complement system,we conducted a comprehensive search of major biomedical databases,including MEDLINE,PubMed,EMBASE,and Web of Science,to identify articles on complement and liver injury and reviewed the functions and mechanisms of the complement system in liver injury.
摘要Antibody-mediated rejection(AMR)represents a major challenge in kidney transplantation,significantly contributing to tissue injury and graft failure.AMR is primarily driven by donor-specific alloantibodies(DSAs),which recognize and bind to specific target antigens present within the transplanted kidney tissue.Upon binding,these DSAs commonly initiate activation of the complement system within the graft.The activation of the complement cascade sets off a powerful inflammatory response characterized by the recruitment and activation of immune cells,endothelial damage,and subsequent tissue injury.This inflammation underlies many clinical and histological manifestations of AMR,making complement activation a critical player in the disease process.Advancements in our understanding of how complement pathways contribute to kidney graft injury have opened new avenues for therapeutic intervention.Recent research has facilitated the development and application of novel therapies specifically designed to inhibit complement activation.Such targeted complement-inhibitory strategies have shown promise in improving graft outcomes by inhibiting complement-mediated damage and extending graft survival.This review comprehensively discusses the critical role of complement activation in inducing kidney graft injury with a focus on its role in AMR.By elucidating the detailed mechanisms and contributions of complement pathways,the review seeks to enhance the understanding necessary for developing targeted therapeutic interventions to prevent or treat AMR effectively.
基金supported by the Original Discovery Program of National Natural Science of China(No.82150004)the National Natural Science Foundation of China grants(Nos.82072715 and 82341027)+5 种基金the Eastern Talent Program(Leading Project)the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission(Nos.201940075 and 2022LJ005)the Shanghai Science and Technology Commission(Nos.21140900300 and 22S31901800)the Project from Shanghai Hospital Development Center(No.SHDC2023CRD025)the Projects from Science Foundation of Zhongshan Hospital,Fudan University(Nos.2021ZSCX28,2020ZSLC31)Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project,and the Projects from Science Foundation of Shanghai Geriatrics Center,Zhongshan Hospital,Fudan University Minhang Meilong(No.YQ2004-003).
摘要Background:Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy(ALPPS)is an important surgical treatment for unresectable liver tumors,while with its mechanism remaining unclear.We aim to comprehensively examine the key immune cells that induce the rapid liver regeneration during the ALPPS procedure and unearth the relevant mechanism(s)in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Methods:Matched ALPPS stage Ⅰ and Ⅱ liver tissues were collected from five HCC patients and subjected to cytometry by time-of-flight(CyTOF)and single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)analysis.Peripheral blood samples were collected during subsequent routine clinical examinations to explore the dynamic changes in circulating immune cells and cytokines.The changes in the transcription profiles of liver tissues between ALPPS stage Ⅰ and Ⅱ were explored by bulk RNA-seq analysis.Tissue microarrays containing paired tissues from another 22 HCC patients who underwent ALPPS were constructed for validation.Results:The CyTOF data revealed an increase in tissue monocytes during the ALPPS-induced liver regeneration(from 13.36%to 29.78%,P=0.04).There was also a shift from a macrophage-enriched to monocyte-enriched local immune environment in the remnant liver tissues induced by ALPPS.The scRNA-seq analysis identified that a cluster of THBS1+tissue monocytes was significantly enriched in the regenerated liver tissues in all three patients,with high expression of epiregulin(EREG).Further analysis indicated that THBS1+tissue monocytes promote hepatocyte proliferation via EREG-epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)interactions.The secretion of C5a by hepatocytes could recruit THBS1+tissue monocytes via the C5a/C5aR1 interaction.The functions of EREG and C5a have been verified in vitro and in vivo.Conclusions:The ALPPS procedure induced activation of the complement system in hepatocytes,specifically increasing the expression of C5a,which led to the recruitment of THBS1+tissue monocytes through the C5a/C5aR1 interaction.These monocytes then secrete EREG to promote hepatocyte proliferation in the residual liver.