Objective To clarify the role and underlying mechanism of macrophage-to-myofibroblast transition (MMT) in renal fibrosis that develops after acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Methods Mouse AKI model was generated by renal ischemia-reperfusion. Animals were randomized into control (Con), sham operated (Sham), and IRI groups sacrificed at 1 d (IRI 1 d), 3 d (IRI 3 d) and 14 d (IRI 14 d) after reperfusion (n = 5). Renal injury was assessed by renal coefficient, serum creatinine (Scr) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining was used to evaluate tubular damage and inflammatory infiltration. Masson staining and immunohistochemistry were employed to quantify collagen deposition, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen (COL I). Flow cytometry was used to determine macrophage infiltration and phenotype. MMT was identified by flow cytometry plus immunofluorescence. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad3 pathway proteins were examined by Western blotting. Results Compared with Sham group, renal coefficient, Scr and KIM-1 rose in IRI 1 d group, renal coefficient and KIM-1 remained elevated in IRI 3 d group. Compared with the IRI 1 d group, the renal coefficient and KIM-1 decreased in the IRI 14 d group. Compared with the IRI 3 d group, the renal coefficient, Scr and KIM-1 decreased in the IRI 14 d group (all P < 0.05). PAS revealed the most severe tubular injury at IRI 3 d. Masson staining showed progressively increasing collagen deposition, while immunohistochemistry demonstrated α-SMA and COL I rising from day 1 and persisting to day 14 (all P < 0.05). Macrophage infiltration increased from day 1 and lasted to day 14 (P < 0.05). M1 macrophages peaked at day 1 then declined, whereas M2 macrophages increased at day 3 and remained high through day 14 (P < 0.05). MMT began to rise at day 3 and continued to day 14 and M2 macrophages were the predominant source of MMT cells (all P < 0.05). Compared with Sham group, TGF-β1 protein was up-regulated and p-Smad3/Smad3 ratio was elevated in all IRI groups (all P < 0.05). Conclusions M2 macrophages promote post-IRI-AKI renal fibrosis via MMT, a process closely linked to activation of the TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway.

Objective To explore the diagnostic value of exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and SinoMed databases up to August 7, 2024. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected for data extraction and quality assessment. The quality of included studies was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and the risk of bias and applicability of included prediction model studies were assessed by the prediction model risk of bias assessment tool (PROBAST). Results A total of 10 studies were included, among which 5 studies only identified specific exhaled VOCs in CF patients, and another 5 developed 7 CF risk prediction models based on the identification of VOCs in CF. The included studies reported a total of 75 exhaled VOCs, most of which belonged to the categories of acylcarnitines, aldehydes, acids, and esters. Most models (n=6, 85.7%) only included exhaled VOCs as predictive factors, and only one model included factors other than VOCs, including forced expiratory flow at 75% of forced vital capacity (FEF75) and modified Medical Research Council scale for the assessment of dyspnea (mMRC). The accuracy of the models ranged from 77% to 100%, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve ranged from 0.771 to 0.988. None of the included studies provided information on the calibration of the models. The results of the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) showed that the overall bias risk of all predictive model studies was high, and the overall applicability was unclear. Conclusion The exhaled VOCs reported in the included studies showed significant heterogeneity, and more research is needed to explore specific compounds for CF. In addition, risk prediction models based on exhaled VOCs have certain value in the diagnosis of CF, but the overall bias risk is relatively high and needs further optimization from aspects such as model construction and validation.

BACKGROUND: The primary limitation to kidney transplantation is organ shortage. Recent progress in gene editing and immunosuppressive regimens has made xenotransplantation with porcine organs a possibility. However, evidence in pig-to-human xenotransplantation remains scarce, and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is a major obstacle to clinical applications of xenotransplantation. METHODS: We conducted a kidney xenotransplantation in a brain-dead human recipient using a porcine kidney with five gene edits (5GE) on March 25, 2024 at Xijing Hospital, China. Clinical-grade immunosuppressive regimens were employed, and the observation period lasted 22 days. We collected and analyzed the xenograft function, ultrasound findings, sequential protocol biopsies, and immune surveillance of the recipient during the observation. RESULTS: The combination of 5GE in the porcine kidney and clinical-grade immunosuppressive regimens prevented hyperacute rejection. The xenograft kidney underwent delayed graft function in the first week, but urine output increased later and the single xenograft kidney maintained electrolyte and pH homeostasis from postoperative day (POD) 12 to 19. We observed AMR at 24 h post-transplantation, due to the presence of pre-existing anti-porcine antibodies and cytotoxicity before transplantation; this AMR persisted throughout the observation period. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment mitigated the AMR. We observed activation of latent porcine cytomegalovirus toward the end of the study, which might have contributed to coagulation disorder in the recipient. CONCLUSIONS 5GE and clinical-grade immunosuppressive regimens were sufficient to prevent hyperacute rejection during pig-to-human kidney xenotransplantation. Pre-existing anti-porcine antibodies predisposed the xenograft to AMR. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin were safe and effective in the treatment of AMR after kidney xenotransplantation.
Transplantation, Heterologous/methods* ; Kidney Transplantation/methods* ; Heterografts/pathology* ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/administration & dosage* ; Graft Survival/immunology* ; Humans ; Animals ; Sus scrofa ; Graft Rejection/prevention & control* ; Kidney/pathology* ; Gene Editing ; Species Specificity ; Immunosuppression Therapy/methods* ; Plasma Exchange ; Brain Death ; Biopsy ; Male ; Aged

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is markedly influenced by both immune and inflammatory reactions throughout its progression. Dendritic cells, as pivotal antigen-presenting entities, play a crucial role in the initiation of immune responses and the preservation of immunological homeostasis. Accumulating data indicates that dendritic cells are present in healthy arteries and accumulate significantly in atherosclerotic plaques. Novel immunotherapeutic approaches and vaccination protocols have yielded substantial clinical advancements in managing chronic inflammatory diseases, with dendritic cell-centric modalities emerging for atherosclerotic management. In this review, we delineate the essential functions and underlying mechanisms of dendritic cells and their subsets in the modulation of atherosclerotic inflammation and immune responses. We underscore the immense promise of dendritic cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies, including vaccines and innovative combinations with nanotechnological drug delivery platforms for atherosclerosis treatment. We also discuss the challenges associated with dendritic cell immunotherapy and provide perspectives on the future direction of this field.

Palmitoylation, an essential covalent attachment of a fatty acid (usually C16 palmitate) to cysteine residues within proteins, is crucial for regulating protein functionality and enzymatic activities. This lipid modification facilitates the anchoring of proteins to cellular membranes, dictating their subcellular distribution and influencing protein transport dynamics and intracellular positioning. Additionally, it plays a role in regulating protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Palmitoylation is implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of cardiovascular diseases by modulating substrates and prompting additional post-translational modifications, as well as by interacting with other molecular alterations. Moreover, an intervention strategy focusing on palmitoylation processes is anticipated to offer novel therapeutic avenues for cardiovascular pathologies and address extant challenges in clinical settings. This review consolidates current research on the role and importance of palmitoylation in cardiovascular diseases by exploring its regulatory functions, the catalyzing enzymes, and the involved substrates. It highlights recent discoveries connecting palmitoylation-targeted therapies to cardiovascular health and examines potential approaches and future challenges in cardiovascular treatment.

Objective:To discuss the effect of zanubrutinib(BGB-3111)combined with bortezomib(Btz)on the apoptosis of the human multiple myeloma(MM)cells,and to clarify its possible mechanism.Methods:The human MM cell lines U266,PS-R,RPMI8226,KMS28-PE,KMS28-BM,and H929 were cultured in vitro.Western blotting method was used to detect the expression level of Bruton's tyrosine kinase(BTK)protein in various cells;cell counting kit-8(CCK-8)method was used to detect the survival rates of the RPMI8226,U266,and KMS28-BM cells after treated with 0,10,20,30,40,and 50 μmol·L?1 BGB-3111.The RPMI8226,U266,and KMS28-BM cells at the logarithmic growth phase were selected and divided into control group,BGB-3111 group,Btz group,and BGB-3111+Btz group.Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptotic rates of the cells in various groups;Western blotting method was used to detect the expression levels of myeloid cell leukemia 1(MCL-1),B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2),Bcl-2-interacting mediator of cell death(Bim),phosphorylated Bim(p-Bim),P65,phosphorylated P65(p-P65),tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor(TRAF)2,and tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3(A20)in different kinds of cells.The U266 cells were divided into A20 overexpression group(A20-OE group)and empty vector control group(EV group).Each group was further divided into control group,BGB-3111 group,Btz group,and BGB-3111+Btz group.The corresponding plasmids were transfected;Western blotting method was used to detect the transfection efficiency of the cells in various groups;flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptotic rates of the cells in various groups after over-expression of A20.Results:The Western blotting results showed that compared with KMS28-BM cells,the expression levels of BTK protein in the U266,RPMI8226,and H929 cells were significantly increased(P<0.05 or P<0.01).The CCK-8 results showed that compared with 0 μmol·L?1 BGB-3111 group,the survival rates of the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in 10,20,30,40,and 50 μmol·L?1 BGB-3111 groups were significantly decreased(P<0.05 or P<0.01),and the survival rates of the KMS28-BM cells in 20,30,40,and 50 μmol·L?1 BGB-3111 groups were significantly decreased(P<0.05).Compared with RPMI8226 and U266 cells,the survival rates of the KMS28-BM cells in 20,30,and 40 μmol·L?1 BGB-3111 groups were significantly increased(P<0.05).Therefore,10 μmol·L?1 BGB-3111 was selected for subsequent experiments.The flow cytometry results showed that compared with control group,the apoptotic rates of the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in BGB-3111 group,Btz group,and BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.05 or P<0.01);compared with BGB-3111 group and Btz group,the apoptotic rates of the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.01);compared with control group,the apoptotic rates of the KMS28-BM cells in Btz group and BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.01);compared with BGB-3111 group,the apoptotic rate of the KMS28-BM cells in BGB-3111+Btz group was significantly increased(P<0.01);compared with EV group,the apoptotic rates of the cells in A20-OE group in Btz group and BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.05).The Western blotting results showed that compared with control group,the expression levels of Bim protein in the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in BGB-3111 group,Btz group,and BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.05),while the expression levels of MCL-1,p-Bim,and Bcl-2 proteins in the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in Btz group and BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly decreased(P<0.05);compared with BGB-3111 group and Btz group,the expression levels of Bim protein in the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.05),while the expression levels of MCL-1,p-Bim,and Bcl-2 proteins were significantly decreased(P<0.05).Compared with control group,the expression levels of p-P65 protein in the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in Btz group and BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.05),while the expression levels of TRAF2 and A20 proteins were significantly decreased(P<0.05);compared with BGB-3111 group and Btz group,the expression levels of p-P65 protein in the RPMI8226 and U266 cells in BGB-3111+Btz group were significantly increased(P<0.05),while the expression levels of TRAF2 and A20 proteins were significantly decreased(P<0.05).The flow cytometry results showed that compared with EV group,the expression level of A20 protein in A20-OE group cells was significantly increased(P<0.01).Conclusion:BGB-3111 induces apoptosis in the MM cells by inhibiting BTK activity and enhances the pro-apoptotic effect of Btz.Over-expression of A20 increases the sensitivity of the MM cells to the combined treatment.The antitumor effect may be related to the inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathway.

Renal fibrosis is a common pathological change from development to end-stage renal diseases in all progressive chronic kidney diseases. Renal fibrosis after kidney transplantation will severely affect the renal graft function. Macrophages are characterized with high heterogeneity and plasticity. During the process of kidney injury, macrophages are recruited, activated and polarized by local microenvironment, and participate in the process of renal tissue injury, repair and fibrosis through multiple mechanisms. Recent studies have shown that macrophages may transit into myofibroblasts and directly participate in the formation of renal fibrosis. This process is known as macrophage-myofibroblast transition. Nevertheless, the regulatory mechanism remains elusive. In this article, the role of macrophages in renal fibrosis, the characteristics of macrophage-myofibroblast transition and the possible regulatory mechanism were reviewed, aiming to provide reference for relevant research of renal fibrosis.

In recent years, the effects of air pollutants on the neurodevelopmental disorders in children have received widespread attention. Early life is a critical period of rapid brain development, and exposure to air pollutants during this period may permanently alter brain function. This paper reviewed the epidemiological studies on the association between exposure to air pollutants during early life and children's neurodevelopmental disorders in recent years, with focus on outdoor air pollutants (e.g., PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NOx, and CO) and indoor air pollutants (e.g., cooking oil fumes, tobacco and mosquito incense smoke, and formaldehyde from home decoration), and summarized their possible biological mechanisms. Most studies indicate that pollutants in different periods and at different levels of exposure during early life can negatively affect children's neurodevelopment and that there may be a dose-response relationship between certain air pollutants and children's neurodevelopment. Current research on the effects of indoor air pollutants on children's neurodevelopment focus on exposure to tobacco smoke, while other indoor air pollutants such as cooking oil fumes and organic compounds produced by interior decorative materials are less well reported and their underlying biological mechanisms are not yet clear. Further epidemiological studies, animal and cellular experiments are needed to provide evidence for the neurodevelopmental toxicity of air pollutant exposure in the future, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for environmental eugenics and promote healthy development of children.

Objective To investigate feasibility and preliminary oncological safety of surgical innovations in breast cancer patients who have undergone nipple-skin-sparing mastectomy (NSSM) for nipple discharge or central lesions and tumors that do not involve the nipple-areola skin. Methods Between May 2018 and November 2023, patients diagnosed with breast cancer presenting nipple discharge or lesions in the central area underwent NSSM. The imaging assessment revealed no involvement of the nipple-areola-skin by the tumor. We performed a surgical removal of the affected mammary duct and simultaneously made a circular incision measuring 3-4 mm in diameter at the apex of the nipple. The study also involved the collection of clinical data, early complications, oncological outcomes and conducting aesthetic analysis of the nipple using the BREAST-Q scale. Results The surgical procedure was conducted on a cohort of 39 female patients at age of 27-57(39.0±7.6) years. The postoperative pathological stages of breast cancer were distributed as follows: stage 0 in 2 patients (5.1%), stageⅠ in 1 patients (2.6%), ⅡA stage in 15 patients (38.5%), ⅡB stage in 21 patients (53.8%). Tumor type: simple carcinoma in situ in 5 patients (12.8%), invasive carcinoma in 14 patients (35.9%), including invasive carcinoma with carcinoma in situ in 20 patients (51.3%). During the median follow-up period of 15.0 (2-66) months, 3 patients (7.7%) developed decolorization caused by mild nipple ischemia; there was no nipple necrosis; 1 patient (2.6%) failed nipple reconstruction (no milk column, the milk column disappeared due to external dressing compression after operation). There were no incision complications, subcutaneous emphysema or intramammary hematoma in all patients. Two patients (5.1%) underwent prosthesis removal and nipple areola excess skin resection because of prosthesis cavity infection and final exposure caused by debridement, dressing change, redrainage and so on. As of April 2024, no tumor recurrence or metastasis was found during the follow-up period. The satisfaction of patients with nipple was 97.4% according to BREAST-Q score. Conclusion The satisfaction of breast cancer patients diagnosed with nipple discharge or lesions in the central area, but without involvement of the nipple areola skin, and who underwent subcutaneous mastectomy with immediate reconstruction is significantly enhanced. Furthermore, there is no increased risk of tumor recurrence or metastasis in short-term.

BACKGROUND:After the treatment of femoral shaft fracture with the intramedullary nail,the third fracture open reduction indications are controversial.Some scholars believe that limited open reduction can achieve anatomical reduction,conducive to fracture healing;but some scholars believe that no open reduction of the third fracture still has a high fracture healing rate. OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of the circumference and displacement of the third fragment on fracture healing after intramedullary nailing of femoral shaft fractures with the third fragment. METHODS:A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 142 patients suffered a femoral shaft fracture with a third fragment admitted to the Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from February 2016 to December 2021.The fracture were classified into three types according to the circumference of the third fracture with reference to the diaphyseal circumference at the fracture site:type 1 in 71 cases,type 2 in 52 cases,and type 3 in 19 cases.Referring to the diaphyseal diameter,the fractures were classified into three degrees according to the degree of the third fragment displacement:degree I in 95 cases,degree II in 31 cases,and degree III in 16 cases.All patients were treated with femoral interlocking intramedullary nails,and no intervention was performed for the displaced third fragment during the operation.Postoperative follow-up was performed to compare the fracture healing rate,healing time,and the modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia at month 9 after surgery in each group.The effect of third fracture fragment circumference and degree of displacement on fracture healing was assessed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)All 142 patients were followed up for at least 12 months,with a mean of(14.7±4.1)months,and the overall healing rate was 73.4%.(2)When the third fragment was displaced by degree I,the healing rate,healing time,and modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia score at month 9 were not statistically significant among the three sub-groups of circumference classification.(3)When the third fragments were displaced by degree II or III,the healing rate and healing time were not statistically significant among the three subgroups of circumference classification;the modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia score at month 9 in the type 1 group was higher than that in the type 2 and 3 groups(P = 0.017).(4)Logistic regression analysis showed that a greater third fragment displacement and circumference were associated with lower fracture healing rates(P<0.05).(5)These findings indicate that in the treatment of femoral shaft fractures with third fragment by intramedullary nails,when the fracture fragment is displaced to degree I,the circumference size has little effect on fracture healing,and no intervention is required during surgery.When the third fragment is displaced to degree II or III and the circumference of which is type 1,a higher modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia score can still be obtained with no intervention of the third fragment.However,when the circumference is of type 2 or type 3,it significantly affects the fracture healing.Consequently,intraoperative intervention to reduce the distance of displacement of the fragment is required to lower the incidence of nonunion.The displacement of the third fracture fragments has a greater impact on fracture healing than their circumference.