1.The Role and Regulatory Mechanisms of FOXO1 in Hepatic Lipid Deposition
Meng JIA ; Fang-Hui LI ; Shi-Zhan YAN ; Ai-Ju LI ; Yi-Le WANG ; Pin-Shi NI ; Jia-Han HE ; Yin-Lu LI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(4):905-919
Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is fundamentally driven by an imbalance in hepatic fatty-acid flux: the influx of fatty acids exceeds the liver’s capacity for disposal, resulting in excessive hepatic lipid accumulation, predominantly in the form of triglycerides (TGs). The occurrence and progression of MAFLD depend on disordered regulation across multiple metabolic steps, including fatty-acid uptake, de novo lipogenesis (DNL), fatty-acid oxidation (FAO), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) export. Forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) is a key transcriptional regulator within the hepatic network coordinating glucose and lipid metabolism. Under metabolic stress and insulin resistance (IR), FOXO1 expression is frequently increased, whereas its inhibitory phosphorylation is reduced. These changes enhance FOXO1 nuclear localization and transcriptional activity, thereby reprogramming the expression of genes related to metabolism in the liver. Because hepatic lipid deposition is the central pathological feature of MAFLD, the functional status of FOXO1 directly influences hepatic lipid homeostasis. Growing evidence suggests that FOXO1 can exert bidirectional, environment-dependent effects on hepatic lipid accumulation; however, the molecular basis for this functional switch remains incompletely understood. This review systematically summarizes the biological functions and regulatory mechanisms of FOXO1 and its roles in hepatic lipid metabolism, with a particular focus on its crosstalk with insulin signaling. FOXO1 expression is shaped by RNA modifications and epigenetic regulation mediated by non-coding RNAs. Its transcriptional output is precisely governed by post-translational modifications—such as phosphorylation and acetylation—as well as by coordinated nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Notably, these regulatory patterns vary markedly across nutritional states, degrees of insulin resistance, and stages of disease. In the fed state, insulin/IGF-1 signaling activates the PI3K-AKT pathway, promoting the inhibitory phosphorylation of FOXO1 and facilitating additional modifications, including acetylation, methylation, and ubiquitination. Together, these events drive FOXO1 export from the nucleus and dampen its transcriptional activity, suppressing gluconeogenesis and constraining lipogenic programs. Conversely, during fasting or when insulin signaling is weakened, FOXO1 inhibition is relieved. FOXO1 accumulates in the nucleus, binds to DNA, and regulates the transcription of downstream target genes. Mechanistically, FOXO1 can aggravate hepatic lipid accumulation by activating genes involved in TG synthesis while repressing FAO-related pathways, thereby favoring storage over oxidation. However, under specific conditions, FOXO1 may also alleviate the hepatic lipid burden by promoting TG hydrolysis and enhancing VLDL secretion, thereby reducing the net hepatic lipid load. In addition, lipotoxic signals mediated by ceramides and diacylglycerols (Cer/DAG) activate atypical protein kinase C (aPKC), further exacerbating the disruption of the AKT-FOXO1 axis. This vicious cycle ultimately produces a metabolic paradox in which increased hepatic glucose output coexists with persistent, insulin-independent lipogenesis, accelerating MAFLD progression. Importantly, FOXO1 regulation is not uniform: during early metabolic overload, insulin-mediated suppression may remain effective, whereas in advanced insulin resistance, the loss of AKT control permits sustained FOXO1 activity. Such stage-dependent dynamics may help explain why FOXO1 can either promote steatosis or, in certain contexts, support programs that facilitate lipid turnover. Accordingly, interventions should be liver-specific and tuned to the disease stage, aiming to curb maladaptive FOXO1 signaling while preserving its capacity to promote triglyceride hydrolysis and VLDL secretion when advantageous. Overall, this review offers an important perspective on MAFLD pathogenesis, emphasizing FOXO1 as a potential therapeutic target and providing a theoretical basis for developing liver-specific, disease-course-dependent precision interventions.
2.High-altitude exposure on retinal damage and oxidative stress levels
Quan ZHAO ; Song WANG ; Chen YIN ; Meng JING ; Juan MA ; Yan CAI
International Eye Science 2026;26(5):760-766
AIM:To investigate the effects of high-altitude hypoxic exposure on retinal injury and the associated changes in oxidative stress-related indicators in rats. METHODS: Twenty-four healthy male Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly divided into a plain group and a high-altitude group, with 12 rats(24 eyes)in each group. Rats in the plain group were housed under normoxic conditions in an SPF-grade animal facility, whereas rats in the high-altitude group were placed in a special environmental chamber simulating an altitude of 6 000 m for 7 d. Optical coherence tomography(OCT)was used to assess retinal layer architecture and quantify retinal thickness. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE)staining was performed to observe retinal histopathological changes. Immunofluorescence(IF)was used to detect the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF-1α)in retinal tissue. Transmission electron microscopy(TEM)was applied to examine the ultrastructure of retinal ganglion cells(RGCs). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was used to measure the levels of malondialdehyde(MDA), total superoxide dismutase(T-SOD), and reduced glutathione(GSH)in retinal tissue. In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS)levels in retinal tissue were assessed using the 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate(DCFH-DA)fluorescent probe. RESULTS: OCT examination revealed disorganized retinal architecture in the high-altitude group, with increased inner and middle ring thickness and decreased outer ring thickness compared with the plain group(all P<0.05). HE staining showed varying degrees of retinal layer damage, blurred layer boundaries, loosely arranged RGCs, and partial cellular necrosis in the high-altitude group. IF analysis demonstrated significantly increased HIF-1α expression in the inner nuclear layer of the high-altitude group(P<0.01). TEM revealed mitochondrial swelling, disrupted cristae, and reduced matrix electron density in RGCs of the high-altitude group. ELISA and fluorescence probe assays showed significantly elevated MDA levels and ROS fluorescence intensity, accompanied by decreased T-SOD and GSH levels in the retinal tissue of the high-altitude group(all P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Exposure to a high-altitude hypoxic environment induces marked morphological and ultrastructural damage in the rat retina and significantly enhances oxidative stress, suggesting that oxidative stress may play a critical role in retinal injury induced by high-altitude hypoxia.
3.Systematic analysis of population pharmacokinetics of lacosamide
Sai CUI ; Nan MENG ; Huizhen WU ; Yin WU
China Pharmacy 2026;37(10):1302-1306
OBJECTIVE To systematically analyze the population pharmacokinetics (PPK) studies of lacosamide and expound the influential factors of its pharmacokinetics in different populations. METHODS PPK studies of lacosamide were collected by searching the databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Metasearch, CNKI, Wanfang Data and VIP, both in Chinese and English. Relevant data were extracted, and the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool was used to evaluate the quality of the PPK models in the included studies. RESULTS Among 8 studies ultimately included, 6 were retrospective studies and 2 were prospective studies; 5 studies involved pediatric patients. Seven studies adopted a one-compartment model, while 1 study utilized a two-compartment model. Four studies had a model quality rating of grade A, two of grade B and two of grade C, respectively. Body weight, renal function, and hepatic enzyme inducers were significant covariates influencing PPK of lacosamide. CONCLUSIONS The existing PPK studies of lacosamide are predominantly conducted in pediatric populations. Pharmacokinetic variability is mainly influenced by body weight, renal function, and hepatic enzyme inducers. However, most PPK studies have not conducted external validation, and the generalizability of the models remains to be confirmed.
4.Imaging Evaluation for Steatotic Liver Disease
Shin Mei CHAN ; Vitor F MARTINS ; Kathleen MARSH ; Kang WANG ; Jake T WEEKS ; Aiguo HAN ; Meng YIN ; Kathryn J. FOWLER ; Claude B. SIRLIN ; Cheng William HONG
Korean Journal of Radiology 2026;27(2):137-151
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is the fastest-growing cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, affecting approximately 30% of the global population.Imaging is vital for detecting, quantifying, and monitoring hepatic steatosis—the defining abnormality of MASLD—and subsequent fibrosis—the key determinant of liver-related outcomes. This review summarizes the principles, clinical usage, efficacy, and advancements in various imaging modalities for the noninvasive assessment of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, with an emphasis on ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Additionally, this review explores the evolving landscape of MASLD diagnostic approaches, including machine-learning techniques, opportunistic screening, standardized imaging guidelines, and therapies, emphasizing the pivotal role that radiologists can play in shaping these developments.
5.Response to “Considerations in Imaging-Based Assessment of Steatotic Liver Disease to Enhance Harmonization, Longitudinal Interpretation, and Clinical Implementation”
Shin Mei CHAN ; Vitor F. MARTINS ; Kathleen MARSH ; Kang WANG ; Jake T. WEEKS ; Aiguo HAN ; Meng YIN ; Kathryn J. FOWLER ; Claude B. SIRLIN ; Cheng William HONG
Korean Journal of Radiology 2026;27(6):591-594
6.Association of physical activity and sedentary behavior with cardiorespiratory fitness among middle school students in Lhasa
Chinese Journal of School Health 2025;46(9):1318-1322
Objective:
To explore the relationship of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) among middle schoold students in Tibet, so as to provide empirical references for improving the cardiorespiratory fitness and health levels of adolescents in Tibet.
Methods:
From August to December 2020, 1 225 junior and senior high school students were selected from 2 middle schools in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, using the stratified cluster random sampling method. Triaxial accelerometers were used to evaluate PA and SB behaviors, and the 20 meter shuttle run was employed to assess CRF among the middle school students. Isochronous substitution modeling was used to analyze the associations of SB, low intensity physical activity (LPA), and moderate vigorous physical activity (MVPA) with CRF, and the saturation threshold effect in the dose response relationship between MVPA and CRF was analyzed through restricted cubic spline and two stage linear regression.
Results:
After adjusting for covariates such as gender, body mass index and sleep quality score, isotemporal substitution analysis showed that among junior high school students aged 13-15, replacing 30 minutes of SB ( B =1.73) or LPA ( B =2.38) with MVPA were positively associated with CRF (both P <0.05). Among senior high school students aged 16-18, replacing SB ( B =0.99) or LPA ( B =1.38) with MVPA were also positively associated with CRF (both P <0.05). Restricted cubic spline and two piecewise linear regression analyses indicated that only middle school girls aged 13-18 exhibited a saturation threshold effect between MVPA and CRF (logarithmic likelihood ratio test=0.03), with the optimal CRF improvement observed at 60 minutes of MVPA per day ( B=0.13, P < 0.01).
Conclusions
Reducing SB and LPA while increasing MVPA can improve CRF in Tibetan middle school students. To maximize CRF improvement, middle school girls should engage in at least 60 minutes of MVPA daily.
7.Self-reported chronic disease prevalence among HIV/AIDS patients aged 50 years and above receiving antiretroviral therapy in Wuxi City
LI Qian ; YANG Bolin ; CHEN Jibiao ; YIN Hanlu ; XU Zhuping ; MENG Xiaojun
Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;37(4):390-394
Objective:
To investigate the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia among HIV/AIDS patients aged 50 years and above receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, so as to provide insights into the prevention and intervention of chronic diseases for these populations.
Methods:
The HIV/AIDS patients aged 50 years and above receiving ART were recruited at designated HIV/AIDS medical institutions in Wuxi City using the convenient sampling method from March to June 2024. Demographic information, treatment status and self-reported prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia were collected through questionnaire surveys. Factors affecting the prevalence of chronic diseases were analyzed using a multivariable logistic regression model.
Results:
A total of 830 HIV/AIDS patients receiving ART were surveyed, including 656 males (79.04%) and 375 patients aged 50 to <60 years (45.18%). Among them, 366 patients reported having at least one type of chronic disease, including hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia, with a self-reported prevalence rate of 44.10%. Specifically, 280, 114 and 61 patients reported having hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia, with the self-reported prevalence rates of 33.73%, 13.73% and 7.35%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that male patients (OR=1.725, 95%CI: 1.187-2.507), those with monthly income less than 3 000 yuan (OR=1.521, 95%CI: 1.122-2.063), those with body mass index of 24 kg/m2 and above (OR=1.577, 95%CI: 1.168-2.130), those who initiated ART at ages of 50 years and above (50 to <60 years, OR=1.535, 95%CI: 1.052-2.238; ≥60 years, OR=3.322, 95%CI: 2.191-5.038), those with ART duration of 10 years and above (OR=2.069, 95%CI: 1.419-3.017), and those who received non-first-line regimens (OR=1.776, 95%CI: 1.304-2.418) had higher risks of developing at least one type of chronic disease, including hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia.
Conclusions
The self-reported prevalence of at least one type of chronic disease, including hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia among HIV/AIDS patients aged 50 years and above receiving ART in Wuxi City was 44.10%. Gender, monthly income, body mass index and ART status are the main influencing factors for the risk of chronic diseases.
8.Research progress of tRNA-derived small RNA in respiratory diseases
Yi-Tong QU ; Yan XU ; Zhi-Wei GUAN ; Lu MENG ; Yin-Li LI ; Jian-Li QIU
Medical Journal of Chinese People's Liberation Army 2025;50(11):1461-1468
Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs(tsRNAs)are a novel class of non-coding small RNAs,which have various biological functions such as regulating gene expression,protein translation,epigenetic inheritance,cell proliferation and apoptosis,and communication.tsRNA is abnormally expressed in respiratory system cancers,lung injury,pulmonary hypertension,childhood obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome and respiratory virus infections,affecting the occurrence and development of these diseases.However,the regulatory mechanism of tsRNAs in respiratory diseases has not been fully elucidated yet.Therefore,this review introduces the sources,classification and detection methods of tsRNA,summarizes the biological functions of tsRNA in respiratory diseases,related regulatory mechanisms,and its application prospects as biomarker in clinical diagnosis and prognosis evaluation,aiming to provide new ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases,and to provide reference for in-depth research on tsRNA regulation of respiratory diseases.
9.Effect of up-regulating tumor necrosis factor alpha induced protein 3 expression on hippocampal neurons in mice with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury
Meng ZHANG ; Li-Hui SUN ; Yue-Jing WANG ; Hong-Bo YAO ; Ke-Shuang ZHANG ; Yin GAO
Acta Anatomica Sinica 2025;56(3):277-283
Objective To investigate the effect of up-regulating tumor necrosis factor alpha induced protein 3(TNFAIP3)expression on hippocampal neurons in mice with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion.Methods The mice were randomly divided into 6 groups:sham group,sham empty vector group(sham-),sham TNFAIP3 high expression group(sham+),model group,model empty vector group(model-),model TNFAIP3 high expression group(model+).A mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion and cerebral ischemia-reperfusion was established using the suture method.After the successful establishment of the model,lentivirus was injected into the hippocampus 24 hours later.Two weeks later,samples were collected and Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of TNFAIP3 and ERK signaling pathway proteins.The changes in ischemic area were observed by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride(TTC)staining;HE staining was used to observe the morphological changes of hippocampal neurons,and ELISA was used to detect the expressions of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2(Lp-PLA2)and interleukin(IL)-8.Results The results of Western blotting indicated that the TNFAIP3 expression in the model group decreased significantly compared with the sham group(P<0.05);Compared with the model group,there was no significant change in TNFAIP3 expression in the model-group(P>0.05);The TNFAIP3 expression in the model+group increased significantly compared with the model group and model-group(P<0.05).Compared with the sham group,the results of the sham+group showed that the ischemic area had no significant changes in TTC staining,and there were no significant changes in hippocampal neuronal morphology,and the expressions ERK signaling pathway proteins,Lp-PLA2 and IL-8(P>0.05);Compared with the sham-and sham+groups,the model group showed an increase in ischemic area,significant damage to hippocampal neurons,a decrease in the number of Nissl bodies,and a significant increase in the expressions of ERK signaling pathway proteins,Lp-PLA2,and IL-8(P<0.05);Compared to the model-group,the model+group showed a decrease in ischemic area,an increase in the number of neurons in the hippocampus and the number of Nissl bodies,and a significant decrease in the expressions of ERK signaling pathway proteins,Lp-PLA2,and IL-8(P<0.05).Conclusion Up-regulation of TNFAIP3 may be one of the methods for repairing hippocampal neuronal damage caused by cerebral ischemia reperfusion.
10.SUBCELLULAR LOCALIZATION AND ENZYMATIC PARAMETERS OF CYCLOPHILIN PROTEIN-1 FROM CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PARVUM
Xi-Meng JIN ; Peng JIANG ; Dong-Qiang WANG ; Zong-Zhen ZHAI ; Ji-Gang YIN ; Guan ZHU
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2025;32(3):129-137,173
Objective The aim of this study was to characterize the basic molecular and biochemical parameters for a cyclophilin protein in Cryptosporidium parvum called CpCyP1.Methods CpCyP1 expression patterns during the parasite life cycle were evaluated using qRT-PCR with total RNA isolated from different developmental stages of C.parvum.Native CpCyP1 protein in sporozoites was detected using western blot.The localization of CpCyP1 was performed using the immunofluorescence assay,with an affinity-purified rabbit polyclonal antibody against a synthetic peptide.The peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase(PPIase)activity of His-tagged recombinant CpCyP1 was evaluated using absorbance colorimetry,and the effect of cyclosporin A(CsA)on the activity of CpCyP1 was determined.Results CpCyP1 was expressed in all parasite developmental stages,whereas CpCyP1 was present mainly in the cytosol of sporozoites,meronts,and gamonts.CpCyP1 displayed Michaelis-Menten kinetics towards N-succinyl-Ala-Ala-Pro-Phe-p-nitroanilide for its PPIase activity(Km=456.4 μmol/L;Vmax=1.981 U).CsA inhibited PPIase activity,showing lower micromolar inhibitory activity and binding affinity(Kd=5.122 μmol/L;IC50=1.004 μmol/L).Conclusions These results imply that CpCyP1 in the parasite may be the target for the previously reported anti-cryptosporidial efficacy of CsA and suggest that C.parvum cyclophilins could be evaluated as candidate drug targets.


Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail