1.Proteome-wide Mendelian randomization analysis of plasma proteins identifies biomarkers for anxiety disorders
Xuelian LI ; Min DENG ; Rongting RAN ; Yuqian HE ; Geman WANG ; Yujie LI ; Zhili ZOU
Sichuan Mental Health 2026;39(1):63-69
BackgroundAnxiety disorder is a common mental disorder, with its prevalence showing a continuous upward trend, significantly affecting the quality of life and social function of patients. Due to the lack of objective and reliable biomarkers in clinical practice, the early identification and treatment of anxiety disorder have been somewhat limited. Plasma proteins have the potential to serve as biomarkers for mental diseases, however, the causal relationship between them and anxiety disorder remains unclear. ObjectiveTo identify the plasma proteins that have a causal relationship with anxiety disorders, and to elucidate the associated biological pathways, in order to provide references for the search for biomarkers of anxiety disorders and the exploration of potential therapeutic targets. MethodsBased on the protein quantitative trait locus (pQTL) data of 4 907 plasma proteins covering 35 559 Icelandic individuals from the deCODE database, and the genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data of 50 486 patients with anxiety disorders and 330 460 healthy controls, the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the main analysis method, supplemented by MR-Egger method, weighted median method, simple model method, and weighted model method for bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis. Enrichment analysis of gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways was conducted for the related proteins. Sensitivity analysis was performed using Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO test, and leave-one-out analysis to evaluate the robustness of the results. ResultsA total of 10 plasma proteins were identified as significantly associated with anxiety disorders. Among these, SPATA9 (OR=0.856, 95% CI: 0.784–0.934, P<0.01) and PDE5A (OR=0.911, 95% CI: 0.864–0.961, P<0.01) were identified as protective factors, while CRYGD (OR=1.209, 95% CI: 1.095–1.334, P<0.01), BTN3A3 (OR=1.045, 95% CI: 1.018–1.073, P<0.01), SERPINB13 (OR=1.102, 95% CI: 1.040–1.168, P<0.01), ERBB4 (OR=1.283, 95% CI: 1.109–1.484, P<0.01), LSAMP (OR=1.096, 95% CI: 1.037–1.158, P<0.01), ICOSLG (OR=1.283, 95% CI: 1.104–1.490, P<0.01), DNAJB11 (OR=1.172, 95% CI: 1.076–1.277, P<0.01), and TREML1 (OR=1.115, 95% CI: 1.054–1.179, P<0.01) were identified as risk factors. The sensitivity analysis showed that the results were robust, with no heterogeneity (Cochran's Q test P>0.05) or pleiotropy (MR-Egger intercept test P>0.05). Enrichment analysis indicated that these plasma proteins were enriched in biological processes such as T-cell signal transduction, lymphocyte proliferation, cell membrane structure and synaptic function, as well as the intestinal immune network that produces IgA and the ErbB signaling pathway. ConclusionThis study identified 10 plasma proteins associated with anxiety disorders. The functions of these plasma proteins involve multiple biological processes such as neural development and immune regulation.
2.Effects of inflammation on serum hepcidin and iron metabolism related parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus:a meta-analysis
Xiaolong WEN ; Xiquan WENG ; Yao FENG ; Wenyan CAO ; Yuqian LIU ; Haitao WANG ; Xinmin CHEN
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(5):1294-1301
OBJECTIVE:Disorders in iron metabolism increase the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.Hepcidin play an important role in maintaining iron homeostasis in the body,but its level increases with increased inflammation.Changes in hepcidin and iron homeostasis and the extent of their association with inflammation in people with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus are unknown.Meta-analysis was used to evaluate the effect of inflammation on serum hepcidin and iron metabolism related parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.METHODS:CNKI,PubMed,Web of Science and EBSCOhost databases were searched by computer to collect observational studies related to inflammatory index and hepcidin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.The search time was from September 1,2000 to September 30,2024.Three researchers independently screened the literature,extracted data and evaluated the quality of the included literature.Meta-analysis was performed by Review Manager 5.3,Stata 17.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0.2 software.RESULTS:A total of 15 articles(17 studies)involving 3 159 participants,including 1 357 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus,were included.Meta-analysis results showed that compared with the control group,patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus had higher levels of serum hepcidin[standardized mean difference(SMD)=0.35,95%confidence interval(CI)(0.05,0.65),P<0.05],serum ferritin(SMD=0.49,95%CI(0.21,0.78),P<0.01)and serum transferrin(SMD=0.19,95%CI(0.00,0.37),P<0.05).Subgroup analysis results indicated that inflammation had a significant effect on serum hepcidin(SMD=0.76,95%CI(0.17,1.34),P<0.05)and serum ferritin(SMD=0.77,95%CI(0.06,1.47),P<0.05)in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.CONCLUSION:Hepcidin concentration is positively correlated with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Inflammation is one of the risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus.Early prevention of inflammation has certain significance in preventing iron metabolism disorder in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
3.Effects of inflammation on serum hepcidin and iron metabolism related parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus:a meta-analysis
Xiaolong WEN ; Xiquan WENG ; Yao FENG ; Wenyan CAO ; Yuqian LIU ; Haitao WANG ; Xinmin CHEN
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(5):1294-1301
OBJECTIVE:Disorders in iron metabolism increase the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.Hepcidin play an important role in maintaining iron homeostasis in the body,but its level increases with increased inflammation.Changes in hepcidin and iron homeostasis and the extent of their association with inflammation in people with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus are unknown.Meta-analysis was used to evaluate the effect of inflammation on serum hepcidin and iron metabolism related parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.METHODS:CNKI,PubMed,Web of Science and EBSCOhost databases were searched by computer to collect observational studies related to inflammatory index and hepcidin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.The search time was from September 1,2000 to September 30,2024.Three researchers independently screened the literature,extracted data and evaluated the quality of the included literature.Meta-analysis was performed by Review Manager 5.3,Stata 17.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0.2 software.RESULTS:A total of 15 articles(17 studies)involving 3 159 participants,including 1 357 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus,were included.Meta-analysis results showed that compared with the control group,patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus had higher levels of serum hepcidin[standardized mean difference(SMD)=0.35,95%confidence interval(CI)(0.05,0.65),P<0.05],serum ferritin(SMD=0.49,95%CI(0.21,0.78),P<0.01)and serum transferrin(SMD=0.19,95%CI(0.00,0.37),P<0.05).Subgroup analysis results indicated that inflammation had a significant effect on serum hepcidin(SMD=0.76,95%CI(0.17,1.34),P<0.05)and serum ferritin(SMD=0.77,95%CI(0.06,1.47),P<0.05)in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.CONCLUSION:Hepcidin concentration is positively correlated with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Inflammation is one of the risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus.Early prevention of inflammation has certain significance in preventing iron metabolism disorder in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
4.Elevated SLC3A2 Expression Promotes the Progression of Gliomas and Enhances Ferroptosis Resistance through the AKT/NRF2/GPX4 Axis
Yuqian ZHENG ; Shaolong ZHOU ; Yiran TAO ; Zimin SHI ; Xiang LI ; Xudong FU ; Jian MA ; Weihua HU ; Wulong LIANG ; Xinjun WANG
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(1):71-94
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to determine the impact of solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2) on the malignant phenotype of gliomas and its role in regulating ferroptosis sensitivity.
Materials and Methods:
The malignant phenotype of glioma was assessed by cell proliferation assay, colony formation assay, EdU assay, wound healing, and Transwell experiments. We further validated the impact of reduced SLC3A2 expression on the sensitivity to ferroptosis in glioma cells through Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, flow cytometry, western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy. Western blot was used to explore how SLC3A2 affects glioma sensitivity to ferroptosis through the AKT/NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) axis. By establishing a subcutaneous xenograft tumor model in BALB/c-nude mice, we investigated the growth of tumors following the knockout of SLC3A2 in glioma cells.
Results:
Downregulation of SLC3A2 suppressed the malignant phenotype of glioma by blocking the cell cycle and epithelial-mesenchymal transition processes. On the other hand, loss of SLC3A2 not only downregulated SLC7A11 but also prevented the activation of the AKT/NRF2/GPX4 axis. These lead to increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxides, ultimately enhancing the susceptibility of glioma to ferroptosis.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that SLC3A2 is an oncogene in gliomas, promoting their occurrence and development. It plays a critical role in ferroptosis resistance through the AKT/NRF2/GPX4 axis.
5.Circadian genes CLOCK and BMAL1 in cancer: mechanistic insights and therapeutic strategies.
Yuli SHEN ; Yuqian ZHAO ; Xue SUN ; Guimei JI ; Daqian XU ; Zheng WANG
Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B 2025;26(10):935-948
The circadian clock is a highly conserved timekeeping system in organisms, which maintains physiological homeostasis by precisely regulating periodic fluctuations in gene expression. Substantial clinical and experimental evidence has established a close association between circadian rhythm disruption and the development of various malignancies. Research has revealed characteristic alterations in the circadian gene expression profiles in tumor tissues, primarily manifested as a dysfunction of core clock components (particularly circadian locomotor output cycles kaput (CLOCK) and brain and muscle ARNT-like 1 (BMAL1)) and the widespread dysregulation of their downstream target genes. Notably, CLOCK demonstrates non-canonical oncogenic functions, including epigenetic regulation via histone acetyltransferase activity and the circadian-independent modulation of cancer pathways. This review systematically elaborates on the oncogenic mechanisms mediated by CLOCK/BMAL1, encompassing multidimensional effects such as cell cycle control, DNA damage response, metabolic reprogramming, and tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling. Regarding the therapeutic strategies, we focus on cutting-edge approaches such as chrononutritional interventions, chronopharmacological modulation, and treatment regimen optimization, along with a discussion of future perspectives. The research breakthroughs highlighted in this work not only deepen our understanding of the crucial role of circadian regulation in cancer biology but also provide novel insights for the development of chronotherapeutic oncology, particularly through targeting the non-canonical functions of circadian proteins to develop innovative anti-cancer strategies.
Humans
;
ARNTL Transcription Factors/physiology*
;
Neoplasms/therapy*
;
CLOCK Proteins/physiology*
;
Circadian Clocks/genetics*
;
Animals
;
Circadian Rhythm/genetics*
;
Tumor Microenvironment
;
Epigenesis, Genetic
;
Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
6.Analysis of Animal Model Construction Methods of Different Subtypes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Based on Literature
Mi LYU ; Kaiyue HUANG ; Xiaokang WANG ; Yuqian WANG ; Xiyun QIAO ; Lin LYU ; Hui CHE ; Shan LIU ; Fengyun WANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(13):1386-1394
ObjectiveTo collate and compare the characteristics and differences in the methods for constructing animal models of different subtypes of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) based on literature, providing a reference for researchers in this field regarding animal model construction. MethodsExperimental studies related to GERD including reflux esophagitis (RE), nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) and Barrett's esophagus (BE) model construction from January 1, 2014 to January 27, 2024, were retrieved from databases such as CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, Web of Science, and Pubmed. Information on animal strains, genders, modeling methods including disease-syndrome combination models, modeling cycles were extracted; for studies with model evaluation, the methods of model evaluation were also extracted; then analyzing all those information. ResultsA total of 182 articles were included. SD rats were most frequently selected when inducing animal models of RE (88/148, 59.46%) and NERD (9/14, 64.29%). For BE, C57BL/6 mice were most commonly used (11/20, 55.00%). Male animals (RE: 111/135, 82.22%; NERD: 11/14, 78.57%; BE: 10/12, 83.33%) were the most common gender among the three subtypes. The key to constructing RE animal models lies in structural damage to the esophageal mucosal layer, gastric content reflux, or mixed reflux, among which forestomach ligation + incomplete pylorus ligation (42/158, 26.58%) was the most common modeling method; the key to constructing NERD animal models lies in micro-inflammation of the esophageal mucosa, visceral hypersensitivity, and emotional problems, and intraperitoneal injection of a mixed suspension of ovalbumin and aluminum hydroxide combined with acid perfusion in the lower esophagus (8/14, 57.14%) was the most common modeling method; the key to constructing BE animal models lies in long-term inflammatory stimulation of the esophageal mucosa and bile acid reflux, and constructing interleukin 2-interleukin 1β transgenic mice (7/25, 28.00%) was the most common modeling method. Adverse psychological stress was the most common method for inducing liver depression. ConclusionsThe construction key principles and methodologies for RE, NERD, and BE animal models exhibit significant differences. Researchers should select appropriate models based on subtype characteristics (e.g., RE focusing on structural damage, NERD emphasizing visceral hypersensitivity). Current studies show insufficient exploration of traditional Chinese medicine disease-syndrome combination models. Future research needs to optimize syndrome modeling approaches (e.g., composite etiology simulation) and establish integrated Chinese-Western medicine evaluation systems to better support mechanistic investigations of traditional Chinese medicine.
7.Progress on gut microbiota in early life and neurodevelopment of premature infants
International Journal of Pediatrics 2025;52(2):93-97
The gut microbiota is of great significance for children's health.An increasing number of studies indicate that gut microbiota is one of the potential mediators affecting human neurodevelopment and neuropsychiatric dysbiosis.In early life,there is a significant overlap between the development window of gut microbiota and the nervous system.Premature infants are at high risk of developing gut microbiota dysbiosis and neurodevelopmental disorders.However,the connection between gut microbiota in early human life and neural development remains unclear.This article reviews the relationship between gut microbiota in early life and neurodevelopment in premature infants,with the aim of contributing to identify predictive biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for healthy neurological development in premature infants.
8.Progress in detection and treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia
Shanshan WANG ; Yuqian WANG ; Liu YANG
International Journal of Pediatrics 2025;52(9):624-628
Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia constitutes one of the common symptoms during the neonatal period. If it is not controlled and effectively treated in time,bilirubin encephalopathy can occur in severe cases,leading to neurological dysfunction and other adverse consequences. Therefore,early detection and effective treatment of hyperbilirubinemia are particularly crucial. In recent years,with the advancement of medical technology,a variety of new detection and treatment methods have been developed and implemented in clinical practice. This article reviews the traditional tests for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia,including percutaneous bilirubinometry and serum bilirubin level testing,evaluates their accuracy and validity,and describes new advances in detection tools. Meanwhile,the application of phototherapy,medication,and other complementary therapies,as well as their efficacy,is also highlighted. This paper aims to enhance the management level of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia,reduce its potential complications,and improve the prognosis of newborns.
9.Long-term efficacy of CMV/EBV bivirus-specific T cells for viral co-reactivation after stem cell transplantation.
Xuying PEI ; Meng LV ; Xiaodong MO ; Yuqian SUN ; Yuhong CHEN ; Chenhua YAN ; Yuanyuan ZHANG ; Lanping XU ; Yu WANG ; Xiaohui ZHANG ; Xiaojun HUANG ; Xiangyu ZHAO
Chinese Medical Journal 2025;138(5):607-609
10.Five-year outcomes of metabolic surgery in Chinese subjects with type 2 diabetes.
Yuqian BAO ; Hui LIANG ; Pin ZHANG ; Cunchuan WANG ; Tao JIANG ; Nengwei ZHANG ; Jiangfan ZHU ; Haoyong YU ; Junfeng HAN ; Yinfang TU ; Shibo LIN ; Hongwei ZHANG ; Wah YANG ; Jingge YANG ; Shu CHEN ; Qing FAN ; Yingzhang MA ; Chiye MA ; Jason R WAGGONER ; Allison L TOKARSKI ; Linda LIN ; Natalie C EDWARDS ; Tengfei YANG ; Rongrong ZHANG ; Weiping JIA
Chinese Medical Journal 2025;138(4):493-495

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