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Background: Exploring the molecular mechanisms of primordial germ cell (PGC) migration and the involvement of gonadal somatic cells in gonad development is valuable for comprehending the origins and potential treatments of reproductive-related diseases. Methods: Diaphanous related formin 1 (Diaph1, also known as mDia1) was screened by analyzing publicly available datasets (ATAC-seq, DNase-seq, and RNA-seq). Subsequently, the CRISPR-Cas9 technology was used to construct Diaph1 knockout mice to investigate the role of Diaph1 in gonad development. Results: Based on data from public databases, a differentially expressed gene Diaph1, was identified in the migration of mouse PGC. Additionally, the number of PGCs was significantly reduced in Diaph1 knockout mice compared to wild type mice, and the expression levels of genes related to proliferation (Dicer1, Mcm9), adhesion (E-cadherin, Cdh1), and migration (Cxcr4, Hmgcr, Dazl) were significantly decreased. Diaph1 knockout also inhibited Leydig cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in the testis, as well as granulosa cell apoptosis in the ovary. Moreover, the sperm count in the epididymal region and the count of ovarian follicles were significantly reduced in Diaph1 knockout mice, resulting in decreased fertility, concomitant with lowered levels of serum testosterone and estradiol. Further research found that in Diaph1 knockout mice, the key enzymes involved in testosterone synthesis (CYP11A1, 3β-HSD) were decreased in Leydig cells, and the estradiol-associated factor (FSH receptor, AMH) in granulosa cells were also downregulated. Conclusions: Overall, our findings indicate that the knockout of Diaph1 can disrupt the expression of factors that regulate sex hormone production, leading to impaired secretion of sex hormones, ultimately resulting in damage to reproductive function. These results provide a new perspective on the molecular mechanisms underlying PGC migration and gonadal development, and offer valuable insights for further research on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative delirium (POD) and cognitive dysfunction (POCD) are common complications following thoracic surgery, particularly in patients aged 65 years and above. These complications can significantly affect recovery and increase healthcare costs. This study investigates the effects of low-dose S-ketamine on reducing POD and POCD in this patient demographic. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, medical records of patients aged ≥ 65 years who underwent elective thoracic surgery from January 2019 to August 2023 were reviewed. Patients were categorized into S-ketamine and Control groups based on intraoperative S-ketamine exposure. POD was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM), while cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months post-surgery. Intraoperative and postoperative parameters, including hemodynamic stability, blood loss, pain scores, and ICU stay length, were also recorded. Results: The study comprised 140 participants, with 70 in each group. The S-ketamine group demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of POD at 7 days post-surgery (12.0% vs. 26.7%, P < 0.001), and reduced POCD at 1 month (18.7% vs. 36.0%, P < 0.05) and 6 months (10.7% vs. 21.3%, P < 0.05). The Ketamine group had a significantly higher median MoCA score compared to the Control group both at 1 month (P = 0.021) and 6 months (P = 0.007). Adverse events, such as infection, bleeding, and respiratory failure, showed no significant differences between the groups, suggesting a safe profile for S-ketamine. Conclusion: Administering low-dose S-ketamine during thoracic surgery in patients aged 65 years and above significantly reduces the incidence of POD and POCD, highlighting its neuroprotective potential. These findings advocate for the inclusion of S-ketamine in anesthetic protocols to improve postoperative outcomes and reduce healthcare costs in this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]