1.Analysis of hemolysis‑associated acute myeloid leukemia genes obtained using weighted gene co‑expression network analysis and a Mendelian randomization study
Rui ZHANG ; Yan ZANG ; Linguo WAN ; Hui YU ; Zhanshan CHA ; Haihui GU
Blood Research 2025;60():24-
Purpose:
We used bioinformatics methods and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the hub genes involved in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and their causal relationship with hemolysis, to explore a new direction for molecular biology research of AML.
Methods:
We first differentially analyzed peripheral blood samples from 62 healthy volunteers and 65 patients with AML from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and intersected them with genes sourced from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and the GeneCards database to obtain target genes. Target genes were screened using protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and ROC curves to identify genes associated with AML. Finally, we analyzed the correlation between genes and immune cells and the relationship between toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and AML using MR.
Results:
We compared peripheral blood expression profiles using an array of 62 healthy volunteers (GSE164191) and 65 patients with AML (GSE89565) (M0:25; M1:11; M2:10; M3:1; M4:7; M4 eo t [16;16] ou inv [16]:4; M5:6; M6:1) and obtained 7,339 DEGs (3,733 upregulated and 3,606 downregulated). We intersected these DEGs with 4,724 genes from WGCNA and 1,330 genes related to hemolysis that were identified in the GeneCards database to obtain 190 target genes. After further screening these genes using the PPI network, we identified TLR4, PTPRC, FCGR3B, STAT1, and APOE, which are closely associated with hemolysis in patients with AML. Finally, we found a causal relationship between TLR4 and AML occurrence using MR analysis (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
We constructed a WGCNA-based co-expression network and identified hemolysis-associated AML genes.
2.Analysis of hemolysis‑associated acute myeloid leukemia genes obtained using weighted gene co‑expression network analysis and a Mendelian randomization study
Rui ZHANG ; Yan ZANG ; Linguo WAN ; Hui YU ; Zhanshan CHA ; Haihui GU
Blood Research 2025;60():24-
Purpose:
We used bioinformatics methods and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the hub genes involved in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and their causal relationship with hemolysis, to explore a new direction for molecular biology research of AML.
Methods:
We first differentially analyzed peripheral blood samples from 62 healthy volunteers and 65 patients with AML from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and intersected them with genes sourced from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and the GeneCards database to obtain target genes. Target genes were screened using protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and ROC curves to identify genes associated with AML. Finally, we analyzed the correlation between genes and immune cells and the relationship between toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and AML using MR.
Results:
We compared peripheral blood expression profiles using an array of 62 healthy volunteers (GSE164191) and 65 patients with AML (GSE89565) (M0:25; M1:11; M2:10; M3:1; M4:7; M4 eo t [16;16] ou inv [16]:4; M5:6; M6:1) and obtained 7,339 DEGs (3,733 upregulated and 3,606 downregulated). We intersected these DEGs with 4,724 genes from WGCNA and 1,330 genes related to hemolysis that were identified in the GeneCards database to obtain 190 target genes. After further screening these genes using the PPI network, we identified TLR4, PTPRC, FCGR3B, STAT1, and APOE, which are closely associated with hemolysis in patients with AML. Finally, we found a causal relationship between TLR4 and AML occurrence using MR analysis (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
We constructed a WGCNA-based co-expression network and identified hemolysis-associated AML genes.
3.Analysis of hemolysis‑associated acute myeloid leukemia genes obtained using weighted gene co‑expression network analysis and a Mendelian randomization study
Rui ZHANG ; Yan ZANG ; Linguo WAN ; Hui YU ; Zhanshan CHA ; Haihui GU
Blood Research 2025;60():24-
Purpose:
We used bioinformatics methods and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the hub genes involved in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and their causal relationship with hemolysis, to explore a new direction for molecular biology research of AML.
Methods:
We first differentially analyzed peripheral blood samples from 62 healthy volunteers and 65 patients with AML from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and intersected them with genes sourced from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and the GeneCards database to obtain target genes. Target genes were screened using protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and ROC curves to identify genes associated with AML. Finally, we analyzed the correlation between genes and immune cells and the relationship between toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and AML using MR.
Results:
We compared peripheral blood expression profiles using an array of 62 healthy volunteers (GSE164191) and 65 patients with AML (GSE89565) (M0:25; M1:11; M2:10; M3:1; M4:7; M4 eo t [16;16] ou inv [16]:4; M5:6; M6:1) and obtained 7,339 DEGs (3,733 upregulated and 3,606 downregulated). We intersected these DEGs with 4,724 genes from WGCNA and 1,330 genes related to hemolysis that were identified in the GeneCards database to obtain 190 target genes. After further screening these genes using the PPI network, we identified TLR4, PTPRC, FCGR3B, STAT1, and APOE, which are closely associated with hemolysis in patients with AML. Finally, we found a causal relationship between TLR4 and AML occurrence using MR analysis (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
We constructed a WGCNA-based co-expression network and identified hemolysis-associated AML genes.
4.Comparative analysis of characteristics and functions of exosomes from human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived platelets and apheresis platelets
Weihua HUANG ; Yan ZANG ; Aihua QIN ; Ziyang FENG ; Heshan TANG ; Fei GUO ; Chuyan WU ; Qiu SHEN ; Baohua QIAN ; Haihui GU ; Zhanshan CHA
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2025;38(9):1154-1161
Objective: To compare the biological characteristics of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived platelet exosomes (hiPSC-Plt-Exos) with those of conventional apheresis platelet exosomes (Plt-Exos), specifically focusing on their differential abilities to enhance the proliferation and migration of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs). Methods: Exosomes were isolated from hiPSC-derived Plt and apheresis Plt concentrate using size exclusion chromatography. These exosomes were then characterized through nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Western blotting. Co-culture experiments into hUC-MSCs were conducted with hiPSC-Plt-Exos and apheresis Plt-Exos, respectively. Their effects on the proliferation and migration of hUC-MSCs were assessed via cell proliferation assays and scratch tests. Results: hiPSC-Plt-Exos and apheresis Plt-Exos exhibited comparable particle sizes, morphological features (such as the characteristic cup-shaped structure), and surface markers (including CD9 and HSP70). Notably, hiPSC-Plt-Exos demonstrated a significantly greater ability to enhance the proliferation and migration of hUC-MSCs compared to apheresis Plt-Exos (P<0.05). These differences provide critical comparative data for their application in various clinical contexts. Conclusion: This study establishes a theoretical foundation for developing precise therapeutic strategies based on hiPSC-Plt-Exos. Furthermore, it underscores the necessity of selecting the appropriate type of exosomes according to the specific disease microenvironment to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes.
5.Progress in the application of intraoperative autologous blood transfusion in liver tumor surgery
Wenlong LI ; Baohua QIAN ; Haihui GU
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2025;38(9):1259-1266
In liver tumor surgery, owing to the characteristics such as the abundant blood supply of the liver and the abnormal hyperplasia of tumor blood vessels, the risk of intraoperative hemorrhage is significantly elevated. Frequently, it is necessary to rely on allogeneic blood transfusion to maintain hemodynamic stability. It is well established that allogeneic blood transfusion poses risks such as immunosuppression and transmission of infectious agents, which may compromise postoperative recovery and long-term patient outcomes. Intraoperative autologous blood transfusion (IOABT) serves as a crucial strategy for blood conservation. The use of allogeneic blood can be effectively reduced by recovering, washing, and centrifuging blood from the patient's surgical field before transfusion to the patient. This article provides an overview of the application and research advancements in IOABT technology within the context of liver tumor surgery. It outlines the evolution of blood salvage techniques, core operational principles, and strategies to mitigate tumor cell dissemination, including the use of leukocyte filters and irradiation. Furthermore, it examines the clinical efficacy and safety of IOABT in both liver resection and liver transplantation, with particular attention to the potential risk of tumor cell reinfusion. Current evidence does not indicate an increased risk of tumor recurrence associated with this technique. Looking ahead, the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, nanobiotechnology, and immunotherapy holds promise for further enhancing IOABT, ultimately enabling safer and more precise perioperative blood management strategies for patients undergoing liver tumor surgery.
6.Construction and function validation of inducible immortalized gene integration vectors
Wei YUE ; Yue YANG ; Baohua QIAN ; Yanxin LI ; Haihui GU
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2024;37(12):1341-1349
[Abstract] [Objective] To construct inducible immortalization gene vectors for transfection into primary cells, enabling the establishment of a conditionally immortalized cell line that support their sustained cultivation and proliferation in vitro. [Methods] Using gene homologous recombination technology, the coding sequences (CDS) of immortalization genes-including human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), simian virus 40 large T antigen (SV40LT), acute myeloid leukemia fusion genes NUP98-KDM5A (N/K) and CBFA2T3-GLIS2 (C/G), as well as the proto-oncogene KRAS were precisely inserted into the tetracycline (Tet)-inducible eukaryotic expression lentiviral vector pLV2-TRE3GS-EGFP-MCS-3×FLAG-hPGK-Tet-On-SV40-Neo and the transposon PB-TRE3G-3×FLAG-T2A-Puro-SV40-PA. Lentiviral packaging, cell transfection, mRNA expression analysis, Western blotting for protein detection, green fluorescent protein (GFP) visualization, and cell proliferation assays were conducted to evaluate transfection efficiency and assess the regulatory effects of Tet on gene expression in 293T and MEF cells. [Results] The Tet-inducible lentiviral vectors pLV2-Tet-SV40LT, pLV2-Tet-N/K, and pLV2-Tet-C/G, along with the transposon vectors PB-Tet-hTERT, PB-Tet-SV40LT, PB-Tet-N/K, PB-Tet-C/G, and PB-Tet-KRAS, were successfully constructed. In 293T cells, the expression levels of all target genes were upregulated after transfection. In MEF cells, the immortalizing functions of SV40LT and N/K were validated. By modulating Tet addition, cell proliferation levels were effectively regulated, leading to the successful establishment of conditionally immortalized pLV2-SV40LT-MEF and pLV2-N/K-MEF cell lines. [Conclusion] The construction of Tet-inducible immortalizing gene vectors provides a technical foundation for establishing conditionally immortalized primary cell lines, thereby facilitating research on the large-scale in vitro production and expansion of blood cells, such as erythrocytes and platelets.
7.Progress in the construction of immortalized cells
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2024;37(9):1081-1090
【Objective】 In the process of proliferation and division, normal human cells reach the mortality stage M1 and mortality stage M2, which makes the cells stop division and apoptosis. This irreversible physiological process is also an inherent anti-tumor mechanism. The limited ability of cell proliferation limits its role in basic research, clinical application, bioengineering and other fields. The development of immortalized cell lines with stable, continuous proliferation and normal structure and function has become a hot and difficult point in the research of cell biology.Immortalized cells are important sources for the production of engineered blood cells.This review discusses the molecular research process of immortalization technology which is widely used at present and describes the technology of immortalized cell de-immortalization.
8.Research progress of methodological techniques of generation of platelets from induced pluripotent stem cells in vitro
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2023;36(9):851-856
Platelets play a role in hemostasis in vivo, and platelet transfusion is the main means to treat bleeding diseases caused by thrombocytopenia or platelet dysfunction. However, platelets are in short supply due to the increasing demand for platelet products in clinical, the limited number of blood donors and the disadvantages of platelet products such as short shelf life and bacteria contamination. Currently, induced pluripotent stem cells are considered an ideal source for producing platelets in vitro. They have the potential for self-renewal and differentiation into any cell type, and can be obtained and manipulated easily. Given the recent advances in megakaryocytic series, bioreactors, feeder-free cell production and large-scale propagation research, platelet preparations derived from induced pluripotent stem cells have gradually shown great potential for clinical applications. Considering the minimal risk of alloimmunization and tumorigenesis with these blood products, they are promising to become the standard source of future blood transfusions. This paper reviews the research progress of the methodological techniques of in vitro generation of platelets from induced pluripotent stem cells.
9.The deubiquitinase OTULIN promotes aerobic glycolysis and proliferation of gastric cancer cells
Haihui WEN ; Yuchao GU ; Qin LIU ; Bin WANG
Tumor 2023;43(12):905-919
Objective:To examine the expression of OUT domain deubiquitinase with linear linkage specificity(OTULIN)in gastric cancer tissues and explore the impact of OTULIN silencing on the proliferation of gastric cancer MKN45 and AGS cells as well as its underlying mechanisms. Methods:Immunohistochemical staining was performed to detect the expression level of OTULIN in 73 gastric cancer tissues and 24 normal gastric mucosa.The association between OTULIN expression and the prognosis as well as the clinicopathological features of gastric cancer patients was analyzed.The above results were validated using public data from The Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)database and Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)database.CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology was used to construct OTULIN-knockout gastric cancer cells MKN45 and AGS.The efficiency of gene knockout was validated by Western blotting.The effects of OTULIN knockout on the proliferation of gastric cancer cells MKN45 and AGS were assessed by CCK-8 assay and soft agar colony formation assay.Immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry technique was exploited to identify potential protein substrates interacting with OTULIN and linear ubiquitin molecule INT-Ub.7KR.The changes in the activity of rate-limiting enzymes for glycolysis were measured using pyruvate kinase(PK)activity assay kit and lactate production was analyzed by lactate colorimetric/fluorometric assay kit in OTULIN-depleted cells.The effect of OTULIN on substrate linear ubiquitination was evaluated using co-immunoprecipitation and Western blotting. Results:The expression level of OTULIN in gastric cancer tissues was higher than that in normal gastric mucosa(P=0.004 1)as revealed by immunohistochemical analysis.Patients with higher OTULIN expression in the cancer tissues had a lower suvival time(P=0.007 7).Analysis of datasets from TCGA and GEO databases also confirmed that OTULIN was highly expressed in gastric tissues(P<0.05)and high OTULIN expression was associated with poor prognosis(P=0.011).Statistical analysis also showed that higher expression of OTULIN was correlated with later TNM stages(P=0.027 3)and was an independent indicator for shorter survival time of gastric cancer patients(P=0.04).Knockout of OTULIN significantly inhibited the proliferation(P<0.000 1),decreased the activity of PK(P<0.01)and reduced lactate production(P<0.01)of gastric cancer cells.OTULIN interacted with several key enzymes in the glycolysis pathway and downregulated the linear ubiquitination levels of these enzymes,including pyruvate kinase M1(PKM1),PKM2,lactate dehydrogenase A(LDHA)and LDHB. Conclusion:OTULIN is a novel biomarker for predicting the prognosis of gastric cancer patients.It activates the glycolytic pathway and promote the progression of gastric cancer possibly by downregulating the linear ubiquitination modification of rate-limiting enzymes in glycolysis.
10.An improved method to generate megakaryocytes from human induced pluripotent stem cells
Weihua HUANG ; Haihui GU ; Yang ZANG ; Yue YANG ; Zhanshan CHA ; Yanxin LI ; Baohua QIAN
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2022;35(9):900-903
【Objective】 To optimize the existing spin-EB method and promote human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) differentiate into megakaryocytes (MKs). 【Methods】 In this study, the initial inoculation amount of hiPSCs was increased from 3 500 cells/well to 8 000 cells/well, and the size of EB was increased. By observing the generation time of EB- hematopoietic cells during differentiation, and detecting the proliferation of CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells and CD41+ MKs in different stages, it was studied whether the optimized scheme could promote the differentiation of hiPSCs into hematopoietic progenitor cells(HPCs) and MKs. 【Results】 By increasing the initial inoculation amount of hiPSCs and the size of EB, the differentiation of hiPSCs into HPCs and MKs and the cell production efficiency can be promoted. 【Conclusion】 Our research describes an optimized and repeatable differentiation method, which can produce hematopoietic progenitor cells and mature MKs from hiPSCs in a relatively short time with higher yield. It is of great clinical significance and broad scientific research prospect to continuously optimize the culture scheme of hiPSCs differentiation to produce MKs and platelets in vitro, and to promote large-scale platelet generation in vitro in transfusion medicine.

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