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Background: Ferroptosis, a recently discovered iron-dependent cell death, is linked to various diseases but its role in endometriosis is still not fully understood. Methods: In this study, we integrated microarray data of endometriosis from the GEO database and ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) from the FerrDb database to further investigate the regulation of ferroptosis in endometriosis and its impact on the immune microenvironment. WGCNA identified ferroptosis-related modules, annotated by GO & KEGG. MNC algorithm pinpointed hub FRGs. Cytoscape construct a ceRNA network, and ROC curves evaluated diagnostic efficacy of hub FRGs. Consensus cluster analysis identified ferroptosis subclusters, and CIBERSORT assessed immune infiltration of these subclusters. Finally, RT-qPCR validated hub FRG expression in clinical tissues. Results: We identified two ferroptosis modules of endometriosis, and by enrichment analysis, they are closely linked with autophagy, mTOR, oxidative stress, and FOXO pathways. Furthermore, we identified 10 hub FRGs, and the ROC curve showed better predictive ability for diagnosing. RT-qPCR confirmed that the tissue expression of 10 hub FRGs was mostly consistent with the database results. Subsequently, we developed a ceRNA network based on 4 FRGs (BECN1, OSBPL9, TGFBR1, GSK3B). Next, we identified two ferroptosis subclusters of endometriosis and discovered that they are closely linked with endometriosis stage. Importantly, immune enrichment analysis illustrated that the expression levels of immune cells and immune checkpoint genes were significantly different in the two ferroptosis subclusters. Specifically, the ferroptosis subcluster with stage III-IV of endometriosis is more inclined to the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Conclusions: Our study showed that ferroptosis may jointly promote endometriosis progression by remodeling the immune microenvironment, offering new insights into pathogenesis and therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light provides the necessary energy for plant photosynthesis, which allows plants to produce organic matter and energy conversion, during plant growth and development. Light provides material energy to plants as the basis for cell division and differentiation, chlorophyll synthesis, tissue growth and stomatal movement, and light intensity, photoperiod, and light quality play important roles in these processes. There are several regulatory mechanisms involved in sugar metabolism in plants, and light, as one of the regulatory factors, affects cell wall composition, starch granules, sucrose synthesis, and vascular bundle formation. Similarly, sugar species and genes are affected in the context of light-regulated sugar metabolism. We searched the available databases and found that there are fewer relevant reviews. Therefore, this paper provides a summary of the effects of light on plant growth and development and sugar metabolism, further elaborates on the mechanisms of light effects on plants, and provides some new insights for a better understanding of how plant growth is regulated under different light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/objectives: Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a rare malignancy, with an indolent course in the early stages of the disease. However, due to major molecular and clinical heterogeneity, patients at an advanced stage of the disease have variable responses to treatment and considerably reduced life expectancy. Today, there is a lack of specific markers for the progression from early to advanced stages of the disease. To address these challenges, the non-interventional BIO-MUSE trial was initiated. Here, we report on a case study involving one patient, where combined omics analysis of tissue and blood was used to reveal the unique molecular features associated with the progression of the disease. Methods: We applied 10× genomics-based single-cell RNA sequencing to CD3+ peripheral T-cells, combined with T-cell receptor sequencing, to samples collected at multiple timepoints during the progression of the disease. In addition, GeoMx-based digital spatial profiling of T-helper (CD3+/CD8−), T-cytotoxic (CD3+/CD8+), and CD163+ cells was performed on skin biopsies. Results. The results pinpoint targets, such as transforming growth factor β1, as some of the mechanisms underlying disease progression, which may have the potential to improve patient prognostication and the development of precision medicine efforts. Conclusions: We propose that in patients with MF, the evolution of the malignant clone and the associated immune response need to be studied jointly to define relevant strategies for intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Madin–Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells are a key cell line for influenza vaccine production, due to their high viral yield and low mutation resistance. In our laboratory, we established a tertiary cell bank (called M60) using a standard MDCK cell line imported from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) in the USA. Due to their controversial tumourigenicity, we domesticated non-tumourigenic MDCK cells (named CL23) for influenza vaccine production via monoclonal screening in the early stage of this study, and the screened CL23 cells were characterised based on their low proliferative capacity, which had certain limitations in terms of expanding their production during cell resuscitation. It was thus our objective to enhance the proliferation efficiency of MDCK cells for influenza vaccine production following cell resuscitation, with a view to improving the production of non-tumourigenic MDCK cells for vaccines and enhancing the production of influenza virus lysate vaccines from MDCK cells through genetic intervention. We concentrated on the protein thrombosponin-1 (THBS1), which was markedly differentiated in the proteomics data of the two MDCK cells. By integrating this finding with related studies, we were able to ascertain that THBS1 exerts a significant influence on the level of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Consequently, our objective was to investigate the impact of THBS1 expression on MDCK cell apoptosis by verifying the differences in THBS1 expression between the two MDCK cells and by interfering with THBS1 expression in the MDCK cells. We found that the knockdown of THBS1 significantly increased the proliferation and apoptosis of CL23 cells without causing significant changes in cell migration and invasion, and its overexpression significantly decreased the proliferation of M60 cells and increased cell migration, invasion, and apoptosis. In addition, the TGF-β/Smad pathway target genes transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2 (Smad2), and mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3 (Smad3), were significantly down-regulated in CL23 cells after THBS1 knockdown and up-regulated in M60 cells after overexpression, with consistent expression identified at both the mRNA and protein levels. The treatment of cells with TGF-β activators and inhibitors further demonstrated that THBS1 regulated MDCK cell proliferation and apoptosis through the TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway. Finally, we found that THBS1 also regulated H1N1 influenza virus replication. These findings enable a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of THBS1 regarding MDCK cell proliferation and apoptosis functions and the effects of influenza virus replication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) genes are among the most frequently encountered molecular alterations in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). These neomorphic point mutations endow mutant IDH (mIDH) with the ability to generate an R-enantiomer of 2-hydroxyglutarate (R2HG), a metabolite that drives malignant transformation through aberrant epigenetic signaling. As a result, pharmacologic inhibition of mIDH has become an attractive therapeutic strategy in CCAs harboring this mutation. One such inhibitor, ivosidenib, has already undergone clinical validation and received FDA approval in this disease, but there is still much work to be done to improve outcomes in mIDH CCA patients. In this publication we will review the pathogenesis and treatment of mIDH CCA with special emphasis on novel agents and combinations currently under investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Social and emotional learning (SEL) is crucial for developing skills such as emotional regulation, cooperation, and goal achievement. Deficits in these skills are linked to later academic and behavioral problems. While SEL interventions have been widely implemented internationally, few have been tested in early childhood settings in Japan, and their effectiveness remains unclear. In 2022, the Fun FRIENDS social and emotional learning program was introduced in class units for 4–5-year-olds attending kindergartens and children's schools in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. Thus, this study examined the effectiveness of the Fun FRIENDS program in children aged 4–5 years in Japan. Methods: Fun FRIENDS is based on a cognitive-behavioral approach designed to teach participants how to cope with anxiety and stress, and to develop resilience and confidence. The program consists of 10 weekly sessions of approximately 1 h each. The intervention group comprised 115 children from two facilities, while the control group comprised 93 children from three facilities. Intervention effectiveness was evaluated through changes in externalizing (e.g., aggression, oppositional behavior) and internalizing behaviors (e.g., anxiety, depression), measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Finally, data from 94 participants in the intervention group and 66 participants in the control group were analyzed. Results: In the intervention group, externalizing behaviors showed a significant reduction both before and after the intervention and internalizing behaviors also decreased significantly. Conversely, the control group did not exhibit any significant changes in either externalizing or internalizing behaviors before or after the intervention. The effect size for externalizing behaviors in the target group was 0.744, while the effect size for internalizing behaviors was 0.653. Conclusions: Social and emotional learning programs in classrooms may effectively control problem behaviors in early childhood and prevent school maladjustment. A whole-class approach can reach more children, maximizing the preventive effects. The program can improve academic performance and social adaptation, contributing to the long-term development of psychological health and social skills. Nevertheless, further longitudinal research is required to assess the program's long-term effects. In summary, strengthening the focus on social-emotional learning in early childhood education policy is key to realizing long-term benefits for child development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a chronic disorder characterized by kidney fibrosis and extracellular matrix accumulation that can lead to end-stage kidney disease. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, inflammatory cytokines, the TGF-β pathway, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, the Notch pathway, and the NF-κB pathway all play crucial roles in the progression of fibrosis. Current medications, such as renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, try to delay disease development but do not stop or reverse fibrosis. This review emphasizes the growing need for tailored antifibrotic medications for CKD treatment. Precision medicine, which combines proteomic, metabolomic, and genetic data, provides a practical way to personalize treatment regimens. Proteomic signatures, such as CKD273, and genetic markers, such as APOL1 and COL4A5, help in patient stratification and focused therapy development. Two recently developed antifibrotic medications, nintedanib and pirfenidone, have been proven to diminish fibrosis in preclinical animals. Additionally, research is being conducted on the efficacy of investigational drugs targeting CTGF and galectin-3 in the treatment of kidney fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the impact of varying the formulation of a specific peptide hydrogel (PepGel) on the release kinetics of rhBMP-2 in vitro. Three PepGel formulations were assessed: (1) 50% v/v (peptides volume/total volume) PepGel, where synthetic peptides were mixed with crosslinking reagents and rhBMP-2 solution; (2) 67% v/v PepGel; (3) 80% v/v PepGel. Each sample was loaded with 12 µg of rhBMP-2 and incubated in PBS. Released rhBMP-2 was quantified by ELISA at 1 h, 6 h, and 1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 14, and 21 days. To explore how PepGel formulations influence rhBMP-2 release, the gel porosities, swelling ratios, and mechanical properties of the three PepGel formulations were quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that rhBMP-2 encapsulated with 50% v/v PepGel exhibited a sustained release over the 21-day experiment, while the 67% and 80% v/v PepGels demonstrated significantly lower rhBMP-2 release rates compared to the 50% formulation after day 7. Higher histological porosity of PepGel was significantly correlated with increased rhBMP-2 release rates. Conversely, the swelling ratio and elastic modulus of the 50% v/v PepGel were significantly lower than that of the 67% and 80% v/v formulations. In conclusion, this study indicates that varying the formulation of crosslinked PepGel can control rhBMP-2 release rates in vitro by modulating gel porosity, swelling ratio, and mechanical properties. Encapsulation with 50% v/v PepGel offers a sustained rhBMP-2 release pattern in vitro; if replicated in vivo, this could mitigate the adverse effects associated with burst release of rhBMP-2 in clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Canine multicentric lymphoma is a common neoplasm in dogs, and there is a need to discover diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers to aid veterinarians and pet owners in decision making. Although some protein biomarkers have been identified in the blood of dogs with multicentric lymphoma, there is still a need for new biomarkers are still required to predict the treatment outcome. This study investigated a novel protein biomarker called YKL-40, which is regarded as a prognostic biomarker in human cancers. YKL-40 could be detected in the blood or neoplastic cells. This study assessed the diagnostic and prognostic abilities of blood YKL-40. The findings from thirty dogs with multicentric lymphoma suggest that serum YKL-40 had the disease's severity in canine multicentric lymphoma. However, its ability to predict clinical outcome remains uncertain. Further large-scale studies are required to clarify the role of YKL-40 in canine multicentric lymphoma. YKL-40, a secretory glycoprotein, is known as a prognostic biomarker in human cancers, but its role in canine multicentric lymphoma is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate serum YKL-40 levels in thirty dogs with multicentric lymphoma to determine their prognostic value, association with patient characteristics, and potential to predict chemotherapy response. Serum samples were collected before, during, and after chemotherapy, and YKL-40 level was measured using ELISA. The results showed that the pretreatment serum YKL-40 levels were significantly higher in dogs with multicentric lymphoma (394.0 pg/mL, n = 30) than in healthy controls (218.6 pg/mL, n = 11) (p = 0.012). While a cutoff value of 445.1 pg/mL was observed, further studies are needed to clarify its diagnostic utility. Dogs with clinical stage V had the highest YKL-40 levels (p = 0.027), potentially reflecting disease severity. Furthermore, YKL-40 levels decreased after chemotherapy (p = 0.030). However, YKL-40 levels showed no significant association with progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 0.93, p = 0.830) or overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.99, p = 0.267). In conclusion, serum YKL-40 levels may potentially detect the disease severity, but its prognostic role remains uncertain. Further studies are required to evaluate serum YKL-40 levels as a potential indicator of treatment response or disease recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Pruritus is an unpleasant sensation that creates the urge to scratch. In many chronic conditions, relentless pruritus and scratching perpetuates a vicious itch-scratch cycle. Uncontrolled itch can detrimentally affect quality of life and may lead to sleep disturbance, impaired concentration, financial burden, and psychological suffering. Recent strides have been made to develop guidelines and investigate new therapies to treat some of the most common severely pruritic conditions, however, a large group of diseases remains underrecognized and undertreated. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the challenges hindering the treatment of pruritus. Methods: An online search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov from 1994 to 2024. Included studies were summarized and assessed for quality and relevance in treating pruritus. Results: Several barriers to treating pruritus emerged, including variable presentation, objective measurement of itch, and identifying therapeutic targets. Itch associated with autoimmune conditions, connective tissue diseases, genodermatoses, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and pruritus of unknown origin were among the etiologies with the greatest unmet needs. Conclusion: Treating pruritus poses many challenges and there are many itchy conditions that have no yet been addressed. There is an urgent need for large-scale controlled studies to investigate potential targets for these conditions and novel therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This research aims to better understand the causes of Mycosis fungoides (MF)—a disease where a type of immune cell, the T cell, malignantly transforms into cancer. It is not yet fully understood what triggers MF or how it progresses, partly because it varies so much between patients and because there is debate about whether the disease begins in immature T cells (thymocytes) or in more mature T cells (memory T cells). Recent findings suggest that bacteria living on the skin, particularly a harmful strain of Staphylococcus aureus, may aggravate MF by triggering specific pathways in T cells. To investigate this hypothesis, we explored the gene expression and microbial abundance of MF patients' skin with advanced statistical methods. We found that varied microbial skin colonization between patients may explain why the skin gene expression is so different from patient to patient. We also observed additional evidence that S. aureus might indeed trigger pathways in mature T cells that fuel cancer progression. Further, our statistical model suggested that certain viruses, like Epstein–Barr virus, could play a role in starting the disease by disrupting thymocytes (immature T cells). Based on these results, we speculate that both perspectives on the origin of MF could be correct, immature (thymocytes) and mature T cells: Thymocytes undergo malignant transformation, possibly caused by viruses, and bacteria like S. aureus fuel the malignant T cells to become prominent cancer cells. Our research could help uncover the complex interplay between bacteria, viruses, and T cells in MF. The findings may pave the way for new treatments targeting the skin microbiome or T cell pathways, offering hope for better management of this challenging disease. Background: Mycosis fungoides (MF) represents the most prevalent entity of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL). The MF aetiopathogenesis is incompletely understood, due to significant transcriptomic heterogeneity and conflicting views on whether oncologic transformation originates in early thymocytes or mature effector memory T cells. Recently, using clinical specimens, our group showed that the skin microbiome aggravates disease course, mainly driven by an outgrowing, pathogenic S. aureus strain carrying the virulence factor spa, which was shown by others to activate the T cell signalling pathway NF-κB. Methods: To explore the role of the skin microbiome in MF aetiopathogenesis, we here performed RNA sequencing, multi-omic data integration of the skin microbiome and skin transcriptome using Multi-Omic Factor Analysis (MOFA), virome profiling, and T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing in 10 MF patients from our previous study group. Results: We observed that inter-patient transcriptional heterogeneity may be largely attributed to differential activation of T cell signalling pathways. Notably, the MOFA model resolved the heterogenous activation pattern of T cell signalling after denoising the transcriptome from microbial influence. The MOFA model suggested that the outgrowing S. aureus strain evoked signalling by non-canonical NF-κB and IL-1B, which in turn may have fuelled the aggravated disease course. Further, the MOFA model indicated aberrant pathways of early thymopoiesis alongside enrichment of antiviral innate immunity. In line with this, viral prevalence, particularly of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), trended higher in both lesional skin and the blood compared to nonlesional skin. Additionally, TCRs in both MF skin lesions and the blood were significantly more likely to recognize EBV peptides involved in latent infection. Conclusions: First, our findings suggest that S. aureus with its virulence factor spa fuels MF progression through non-canonical NF-κB and IL-1B signalling. Second, our data provide insights into the potential role of viruses in MF aetiology. Last, we propose a model of microbiome-driven MF aetiopathogenesis: Thymocytes undergo initial oncologic transformation, potentially caused by viruses. After maturation and skin infiltration, an outgrowing, pathogenic S. aureus strain evokes activation and maturation into effector memory T cells, resulting in aggressive disease. Further studies are warranted to verify and extend our data, which are based on computational analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) is often missed by standard hearing tests, accounting for up to 10% of hearing impairments (HI) and commonly linked to variants in 23 genes. We assessed 122 children with HI, including 102 with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and 20 with ANSD. SNHL patients were genotyped for common GJB2 variants using qPCR, while ANSD patients underwent whole exome sequencing, with variants analyzed across 249 genes. Homozygous GJB2 variants were found in 54.9% of SNHL patients. In 60% of ANSD patients, variants were detected in OTOF (25%), CDH23, TMC1, COL11A1, PRPS1, TWNK, and HOMER2 genes, including eight novel variants. Transient evoked otoacoustic emissions testing revealed differences at 4000 Hz (p = 0.0084) between the ANSD and SNHL groups. The auditory steady-state response (ASSR) test showed significant differences at 500 Hz (p = 2.69 × 10−4) and 1000 Hz (p = 0.0255) compared to pure-tone audiometry (PTA) in ANSD patients. Our questionnaire shows that the parents of children with SNHL often report an improved quality of life with hearing aids or cochlear implants, while parents of children with ANSD frequently experience uncertainty about outcomes (p = 0.0026), leading to lower satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: YKL-40, a secretory glycoprotein, is involved in tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis in human cancers. Its overexpression has been correlated with unfavorable prognosis in many human cancers. In veterinary medicine, elevated YKL-40 levels in the serum of canine cutaneous mast cell tumors (cMCTs) were observed in our previous study. However, the expression pattern of YKL-40 in canine cMCT tissues, along with its association with clinical and pathological features, is still unknown. This study aims to retrospectively investigate the expression level of YKL-40 in the tissues of canine cMCTs and its correlation with clinical features, pathological characteristics, and clinical outcomes. Forty formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded cMCT tissues collected from forty dogs were diagnosed as low-grade (n = 20) or high-grade s(n = 20) MCT according to the Kiupel grading system. The expression level of YKL-40 in cMCT tissues was investigated using immunohistochemical staining and immunoreactivity score (IRS). Results: YKL-40 was expressed in all cMCTs at different levels, with significantly stronger expression in low-grade cMCTs compared to high-grade cMCTs. The expression level was also associated with tumor diameter, histological grade, mitotic counts, vessel density, and survival of cMCTs. The overall survival of cMCT dogs showed significant differences (p < 0.01) among mild (n = 15, MST 219 days), moderate (n = 19, MST not reached), and high (n = 6, MST not reached) YKL-40 expression groups. Among low-grade cMCTs, overall survival was significantly different between mild YKL-40 expression (MST 319 days) and moderate to high YKL-40 (MST not reached) expression (p < 0.01). In high-grade cMCTs, overall survival was not correlated with YKL-40 expression (p = 0.6589). Conclusions: This study found that the YKL-40 expression level was significantly stronger in low-grade than in high-grade canine cutaneous mast cell tumors and was associated with various clinical and pathological features. Stronger YKL-40 expression level correlated with longer survival time, especially in low-grade cMCTs. Therefore, YKL-40 could serve as a prognostic marker for cMCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a prevalent metabolic disease that reduces bacterial diversity, colonizes the epidermis with lipophilic bacteria, and increases intestinal pro-inflammatory species, all of which lead to impaired epithelial barriers. Adipose tissue secretes immunomodulatory molecules, such as adipokines, leptin, and adiponectin, which alters the morphology of adipocytes and macrophages as well as modulates T cell differentiation and peripheral Th2-dominated immune responses. Atopic dermatitis (AD) and obesity have similar pathological manifestations, including inflammation as well as insulin and leptin resistance. This review examines the major mechanisms between obesity and AD, which focus on the effect on skin and gut microbiota, immune responses mediated by the toll like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway, and changes in cytokine levels (TNF-a, IL-6, IL-4, and IL13). Moreover, we describe the potential effects of adipokines on AD and finally mechanisms by which PPAR-γ suppresses and regulates type 2 immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different supramolecular motifs are formed by the crystallisation of amino-substituted derivatives of quinoxaline, pyrimidine and pyridazine. These were made from the corresponding mono- or dichlorinated heterocycles by a nucleophilic displacement reaction. The pyridine-type nitrogen atoms activate the chlorine atoms because they can stabilise a negative charge, which forms when the amine attacks the ring. One amino group can be attached under mild conditions in hot ethanol or acetonitrile, but the first then deactivates the ring so the second requires more forceful conditions using a pressure vessel at 150 °C. Butylamine is frequently used because it reduces the polarity of the product, making it easier to purify and isolate. The extended structure of the quinoxaline derivatives 16–18 show a common 'pincer' hydrogen-bond motif, with a quinoxaline nitrogen atom accepting two N–H···N hydrogen bonds, giving a spiral or helical axis. The chain symmetries are 41, 21 and 31, respectively, depending on the substituents. A stereoview of each is shown. The pyrimidine derivatives 19, 12, 20, 14 and 21 form hydrogen-bonded tapes and compound 20 forms inversion dimers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chromosomal theory of inheritance dictates that genes on the same chromosome segregate together while genes on different chromosomes assort independently1. Extrachromosomal DNAs (ecDNAs) are common in cancer and drive oncogene amplification, dysregulated gene expression and intratumoural heterogeneity through random segregation during cell division2,3. Distinct ecDNA sequences, termed ecDNA species, can co-exist to facilitate intermolecular cooperation in cancer cells4. How multiple ecDNA species within a tumour cell are assorted and maintained across somatic cell generations is unclear. Here we show that cooperative ecDNA species are coordinately inherited through mitotic co-segregation. Imaging and single-cell analyses show that multiple ecDNAs encoding distinct oncogenes co-occur and are correlated in copy number in human cancer cells. ecDNA species are coordinately segregated asymmetrically during mitosis, resulting in daughter cells with simultaneous copy-number gains in multiple ecDNA species before any selection. Intermolecular proximity and active transcription at the start of mitosis facilitate the coordinated segregation of ecDNA species, and transcription inhibition reduces co-segregation. Computational modelling reveals the quantitative principles of ecDNA co-segregation and co-selection, predicting their observed distributions in cancer cells. Coordinated inheritance of ecDNAs enables co-amplification of specialized ecDNAs containing only enhancer elements and guides therapeutic strategies to jointly deplete cooperating ecDNA oncogenes. Coordinated inheritance of ecDNAs confers stability to oncogene cooperation and novel gene regulatory circuits, allowing winning combinations of epigenetic states to be transmitted across cell generations.Cooperative species of extrachromosomal DNAs are coordinately inherited through mitotic co-segregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rigakuryoho Kagaku is the property of International Press Editing Center Incorporation and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ABSTRACT: The internet significantly impacts the occurrence and prevalence of cyberchondria because it provides easy access to a large amount of health data that can describe any medical condition in detail. Cyberchondria develops due to exposure to the vast and easily accessible online health information that causes health worries. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of cyberchondria among Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) students and determine the impact of patient skepticism on medical decisions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among IMSIU students. A questionnaire was distributed to participants via Google Forms. Data were collected and analyzed by using SPSS. Results: This study involved 798 respondents. Female participants represented 51.1%. Most of the participants were between 21 and 23 years old. More than one-third of students studied in the College of Medicine (36%). Almost 20% of students panicked about their condition when they read online. Excessiveness was the most severely affected construct (63.7%), followed by the reassurance subscale (46.4%). Compulsion was the least affected construct, while distress was moderately affected. Divorced and married students showed significantly higher cyberchondria severity scores than single respondents (P value = 0.020). Conclusion: Our findings suggested that IMSIU students had a relatively high prevalence of cyberchondria. More efforts are required to raise public awareness of appropriate internet usage for health-related information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: With advances in techniques, arthroscopic repair of isolated subscapularis tendon tears has become increasingly popular in recent years. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical and structural results of arthroscopic repair versus the gold standard of open repair. It is a prospective cohort study with a control group; evidence level III. Methods: In a prospective study performed at two centers, 18 patients with an isolated subscapularis tear were treated with arthroscopic repair (ARG) and 16 patients with open repair (ORG) using a uniform single-row suture anchor repair technique in both groups. The subscapularis function was assessed using specific clinical tests (belly-press and lift-off tests), strength testing and shoulder function with the use of the Constant–Murley score (CMS). Standardized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate the postoperative subscapularis muscle-tendon status. Results: At a minimum follow-up of 48 months, the CMS increased from a mean of 54 points preoperatively to a mean of 86 points postoperatively in the ARG (p < 0.01) and from 50 points to 85 points postoperatively in the ORG (p < 0.01). Specific subscapularis tests (belly-press test and lift-off test) were significantly improved from the preoperative to the postoperative status in both repair groups (p < 0.05). Despite a subscapularis tendon healing rate of over 90% on MRI scans in both repair groups, the incomplete correction of specific muscle tests was a frequent postoperative finding. Conclusions: Arthroscopic repair of isolated subscapularis tears achieved equivalent clinical and structural results compared to the gold standard of open repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown beneficial effects of empagliflozin (Empa), a selective inhibitor of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2), on diabetes and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with diabetes. However, whether Empa could ameliorate diabetes mellitus (DM)-induced male spermatogenesis dysfunction remains unclear. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of Empa in the development of DM-induced male spermatogenesis dysfunction and to reveal the molecular mechanisms. DM mice were orally treated with Empa to investigate the effects of Empa on DM-induced male mice spermatogenesis dysfunction. We employed a cardiac-specific C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein 9 (CTRP9)-deficient mouse model and a cardiac-specific CTRP9 overexpression mouse model to investigate its role in the protection of Empa against diabetes-induced male subfertility. We found that Empa treatment could improve DM-induced male mice subfertility. Interestingly, we discovered that cardiac-derived CTRP9 was decreased in DM mice and this decrease was prevented by Empa treatment. A CTRP9 blocking antibody or cardiac-specific depletion of CTRP9 abolished the protection of Empa on DM-induced male subfertility. Cardiac-specific CTRP9 overexpression ameliorated DM-induced male subfertility. Mechanistically, we identified that cardiac-derived CTRP9 increased steroidogenesis in mice with diabetes in a PKA-dependent manner. We also provided direct evidence that activation of AMP activated protein kinase α (AMPKα)/nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) signalling pathway by CTRP9 was responsible for the attenuation of ferroptosis in Leydig cells. In conclusions, we supposed that Empa was a potential therapeutic agent against DM-induced male mice spermatogenesis dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are comorbidities and complications in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis that often occur after the appearance of skin inflammation. Statistically, data show that patients with psoriasis and atopic dermatitis have a shorter life expectancy than patients without psoriatic dermatitis, due to the occurrence of arteriosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and cerebral infarction. Many types of skin inflammation are treated with various antibody preparations, and marked improvement in patients' quality of life can be achieved. The next theme is to understand the pathogenesis of arteriosclerosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, and other complications associated with dermatitis and to find treatments and drugs to reduce their occurrence. The skin, a crucial immune organ, generates large amounts of inflammatory cytokines in response to various stimuli, leading to systemic inflammation and potential damage to internal organs. The link between inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis with serious health complications such as vascular disorders and systemic amyloidosis has been increasingly recognized. In psoriasis, biological treatments targeting Interleukin (IL)-17A, a key cytokine, have shown promise in reducing cardiovascular risks. Recent developments include treatments that target both IL-17A and IL-17F in the psoriasis field, though each cytokine's impact on internal organ damage is still under debate. Among visceral complications secondary to dermatitis, systemic amyloidosis and atherosclerosis have been reported to be controlled by suppressing IL-17 in the early stages of dermatitis. Still, it remains unclear whether suppressing IL-17 prevents organ damage in the late stages of persistent severe dermatitis. A study using a long-lasting dermatitis mouse model that overexpressed human caspase-1 in keratinocytes (Kcasp1Tg) investigated the effects of deleting IL-17A and IL-17F on visceral complications. Cross-mating Kcasp1Tg with IL-17A-, IL-17F-, and IL-17AF-deficient mice assessed the skin and visceral organs histologically, and RT-PCR analysis of aortic sclerosis markers was performed. Despite less improvement in dermatitis, deletion of IL-17A in Kcasp1Tg mice showed promising results in reducing multiple organ amyloidosis. On the other hand, the effect was observed in both IL-17A and IL-17F deleted mice for aortic sclerosis. The inhibition of IL-17A and IL-17F was suggested to reduce the risk of developing comorbidities in internal organs. IL-17A and IL-17F were found to act similarly or produce very different results, depending on the organ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of consequences of climate change, notably salinity, put global food security at risk by impacting the development and production of lentils. Salinity-induced stress alters lentil genetics, resulting in severe developmental issues and eventual phenotypic damage. Lentils have evolved sophisticated signaling networks to combat salinity stress. Lentil genomics and transcriptomics have discovered key genes and pathways that play an important role in mitigating salinity stress. The development of saline-smart cultivars can be further revolutionized by implementing proteomics, metabolomics, miRNAomics, epigenomics, phenomics, ionomics, machine learning, and speed breeding approaches. All these cutting-edge approaches represent a viable path toward creating saline-tolerant lentil cultivars that can withstand climate change and meet the growing demand for high-quality food worldwide. The review emphasizes the gaps that must be filled for future food security in a changing climate while also highlighting the significant discoveries and insights made possible by omics and other state-of-the-art biotechnological techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the biggest threats to global health that affects both individual health and global health is obesity. People have used traditional exercise programmes to deal with body fat for a long time but often have problems and limits. In the field of exercise science, blood flow restriction (BFR) training has gained popularity in the past few years. It could be a new way to deal with obesity. This review aims to examine previous research on the effectiveness of BFR training in treating obesity and provide an overview of the available data. Using particular search phrases associated with obesity, blood flow restriction training, and exercise interventions, several databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and MEDLINE, were examined. Understanding these processes could lead to the creation of more effective treatments for people who are overweight. In the end, this review gives a full look at the current data about the role of BFR training in managing obesity. While initial findings are promising, more investigation is needed to prove the effectiveness, safety, and long-term effects of BFR training as a treatment to control obesity. The information learned from this review could help shape future research and help healthcare professionals plan exercise programmes for people who are overweight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Treatment options for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), a highly malignant tumor with poor prognosis, are limited. Recent developments in immunotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have offered new hope for treating iCCA. However, several issues remain, including the identification of reliable biomarkers of response to ICIs and immune-based combinations. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of these hepatobiliary tumors has been evaluated and is under assessment in order to boost the efficacy of ICIs and to convert these immunologically "cold" tumors to "hot" tumors. Herein, we examine the role of iCCA TIME, highlighting its mechanisms, current applications and challenges, and future research directions. Treatment options for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), a highly malignant tumor with poor prognosis, are limited. Recent developments in immunotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have offered new hope for treating iCCA. However, several issues remain, including the identification of reliable biomarkers of response to ICIs and immune-based combinations. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of these hepatobiliary tumors has been evaluated and is under assessment in this setting in order to boost the efficacy of ICIs and to convert these immunologically "cold" tumors to "hot" tumors. Herein, the review TIME of ICCA and its critical function in immunotherapy. Moreover, this paper also discusses potential avenues for future research, including novel targets for immunotherapy and emerging treatment plans aimed to increase the effectiveness of immunotherapy and survival rates for iCCA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a mega‐staple for millions of the world's populations and its yield potential is impacted by soil salinization. This study investigated genotypic variation in salt tolerance among six wheat genotypes, Gladius, Drysdale, GD0014, GD0120, GD0180, and GD0185. The study also characterized shoot traits, photosynthetic traits, leaf Na and K concentrations, and phloem sucrose. The plants were grown under controlled growth room conditions at 0 mM NaCl (Control) and 100 mM NaCl. The results showed that the salt tolerance index (STISFW, SFW: shoot fresh weight) varied from 0.52 for GD0120 to 0.69 for GD0180. Based on the STISFW, salt tolerance for the wheat genotypes was in the order, GD0180 > Gladius > GD0185 > Drysdale > GD0014 > GD0120. Projected shoot area (PSA) at all growth stages, 14, 20, 27, 34, and 40 DAS were strongly correlated with SFW at 45 DAS. Salt treatment significantly increased phloem sucrose level in the salt intolerant, Drysdale, while having no effect on this parameter in Gladius. Gladius showed greater maintenance of stomatal conductance than Drysdale. The relative ratio of K/Na between treatment and control was strongly correlated with the relative ratio of SFW (r =.85). The correlation between PSA at 14 DAS and SFW at 45 DAS and the correlation between the relative ratio of K/Na between treatment and control with STISFW identify these parameters to be potential traits for screening salt tolerance in wheat. Higher salt tolerance in Gladius would be associated with higher maintenance of stomatal conductance and enhanced phloem sucrose transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) is highly nutritious and contains antioxidants that help reduce the risk of diseases. Light is a crucial factor in their growth and the stimulation of secondary metabolite production. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of light spectra on the development, physiological responses, and antioxidant capacity of radish varieties including cherry belle (CB), black Spanish (BS), hailstone white (HW), Malaga violet (MV), and sparkler white tip (SW) under a controlled environment. Various spectra of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) light were used. The study found that using a combination of red and blue light (3R:1B) resulted in the highest growth in root diameter, fresh weight, and dry weight across all five radish varieties, with values ranging from 1.83 to 4.63 cm, 13.58 to 89.33 g, and 1.20 to 4.64 g, respectively. In terms of physiological responses, the CB and BS varieties showed a higher photosynthetic rate after exposure to mixed red and blue light (1R:3B, 3R:1B). Additionally, adding green light to the red and blue light also enhanced the photosynthetic rate, with statistically significant differences ranging from 3.31 to 3.99 µmol m−2 s−1. The SW variety of radish exhibited an increase in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and anthocyanins when exposed to light spectra of 1R:1G:1B, 1R:2G:1B, 1R:3G:1B, and 1R:3B. The highest levels of phenolic compounds were 4.67–5.14 mg GAE/g DW, flavonoids were 1.62–1.96 mg Rutin/g DW, and anthocyanins were 1.20–1.58 µg/g DW. However, the antioxidant capacity of five radish varieties under different light spectra did not show significant differences. Thus, the growth, photosynthesis, and antioxidant capacity depend on the optimal light spectrum for each radish variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) is the key rate-limiting enzyme in starch biosynthesis pathway, and has been identified as a potential target for manipulation strategies aimed at improving crop yield and quality. Objective: To identify the AGPase gene family members in soybean, and explore the potential implications of GmAGPS2 in drought stress tolerance. Methods: The genome-wide identification and sequence analysis of soybean AGPase gene family was carried out by bioinformatics methods. The GmAGP gene expression was analyzed using transcriptome data and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Furthermore, transgenic yeast strains overexpressing GmAGPS2 were generated, and their growth was observed under drought stress. Results: In this study, we searched for AGPase genes (GmAGP) in the soybean genome and identified a total of 14 GmAGP genes. The GmAGP proteins had a unique conserved NTP_transferase domain and were mainly located in the chloroplast and cytosol. Evolutionarily, the GmAGP proteins can be clustered into two distinct subgroups; within the same subgroup, they displayed a similar distribution pattern of conserved motifs. The GmAGP genes exhibited an uneven distribution on 10 chromosomes, and segmental duplication contributed to AGPase gene family expansion in soybean. The GmAGP genes presented different tissue expression pattern, in which GmAGPL6, GmAGPL9, and GmAGPL10 mainly exhibited tissue-specific expression pattern. The promoter of GmAGP genes had multiple cis-acting elements related to phytohormones and stress responses, and 8 GmAGP genes contained drought-responsive cis-acting elements. qRT‒PCR analysis demonstrated a significant upregulation expression of GmAGPL6, GmAGPL10, and GmAGPS2 in response to drought stress. Further functional analysis indicated that GmAGPS2 gene could improve yeast growth under drought stress conditions and enhance the drought tolerance of yeast. Conclusion: These results will contribute to further elucidation of the function of GmAGP genes, and offer important candidate genes for the genetic improvement of starch and yield-related traits and the breeding of high drought stress tolerance varieties in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Rapid progress made in the management of atopic dermatitis (AD) in recent years and the differences in patient journey between Asian and non-Asian populations call for a review of current atopic dermatitis landscape in Asia. Methods: A roundtable meeting with nine regional dermatological experts was held in June 2023 to discuss the optimal management approaches for moderate-to-severe AD, focusing on the use of advanced therapies. Results: Disease burden on patients' quality of life, treatment adherence, and financial constraints were identified as major concerns when managing patients with moderate-to-severe AD in parts of Asia. It was agreed that the Hanifin and Rajka's criteria or the UK Working Party's Diagnostic Criteria for Atopic Dermatitis can be used to guide the clinical diagnosis of AD. Meanwhile, patient-reported outcome scales including the Dermatology Life Quality Index and Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool can be used alongside depression monitoring scales to monitor treatment outcomes in patients with AD, allowing a better understanding for individualized treatment. When managing moderate-to-severe AD, phototherapy should be attempted after failure with topical treatments, followed by conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and, subsequently, biologics or Janus kinase inhibitors. Systemic corticosteroids can be used as short-term therapy for acute flares. Although these advanced treatments are known to be effective, physicians have to take into consideration safety concerns and limitations when prescribing these treatments. Conclusions: Treatments in AD have evolved and its management varies country by country. Unique challenges across Asian countries necessitate a different management approach in Asian patients with AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving optimal coloration in red table grapes, especially in warm-climate regions, presents significant challenges due to high temperatures that inhibit anthocyanin biosynthesis. Conventional methods to enhance grape coloration, including the use of abscisic acid (ABA), ethephon, foliar nutrient supplementation, and viticultural practices like cluster trimming and girdling, have limitations related to cost, regulatory restrictions, and potential adverse effects on grapes quality. This study proposes the application of tsikoudia, a traditional Greek alcoholic beverage, as a novel, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative to conventional practices. Tsikoudia, applied during the veraison stage, significantly improved the coloration of 'Crimson Seedless' and 'Red Globe' grapes by enhancing anthocyanin accumulation and altering color parameters. Specifically, lightness (L*), chroma (C*), and hue angle (h), measured using the CIE-Lab color system, were reduced, while the Color Index for Red Grapes (CIRG) was increased. Additionally, total anthocyanin content, determined through spectrophotometric analysis, also showed an increase. These changes indicate a more intense red coloration. This research highlights the effectiveness of tsikoudia in improving grape coloration and contributes to the development of more sustainable viticultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cutaneous T cell lymphomas (CTCLs) are a group of rare lymphoproliferative malignancies manifesting in the skin. Cutaneous T cell lymphomas are an incurable, disfiguring, and life-threatening disease. Emerging studies have implicated the surrounding cells of malignant T cells (tumor microenvironment) in the disease evolution. This has revealed that targeting the tumor microenvironment has therapeutic potential in cutaneous T cell lymphomas. This review provides a detailed insight into the contribution of the tumor microenvironment in cutaneous T cell lymphomas and the targeting strategies. Cutaneous T cell lymphomas (CTCLs) are a heterogeneous group of non-Hodgkin lymphomas, with mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome being the two common subtypes. Despite the substantial improvement in early-stage diagnosis and treatments, some patients still progress to the advanced stage with an elusive underpinning mechanism. While this unsubstantiated disease mechanism coupled with diverse clinical outcomes poses challenges in disease management, emerging evidence has implicated the tumor microenvironment in the disease process, thus revealing a promising therapeutic potential of targeting the tumor microenvironment. Notably, malignant T cells can shape their microenvironment to dampen antitumor immunity, leading to Th2-dominated responses that promote tumor progression. This is largely orchestrated by alterations in cytokines expression patterns, genetic dysregulations, inhibitory effects of immune checkpoint molecules, and immunosuppressive cells. Herein, the recent insights into the determining factors in the CTCL tumor microenvironment that support their progression have been highlighted. Also, recent advances in strategies to target the CTCL tumor micromovement with the rationale of improving treatment efficacy have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of dry eye disease (DED), a multifactorial ocular surface disease characterized by tear film instability, is increasing yearly. Qingxuan Run Mu Yin (QXRMY) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) consisting of Radix Rehmanniae, Radix Scrophulariae, Rhizoma Atractylodis macrocephalae, Herba Dendrobii, Flos Lonicerae, Forsythia suspensa, Ophiopogon japonicus, Saposhnikovia divaricata, Radix Platycodi, and Radix Glycyrrhizae. It has excellent therapeutic effects on dry eye syndrome and a good anti-inflammatory effect on immune-related inflammation. However, the molecular mechanism of Qing Xuan Run Mu Yin in treating dry eye syndrome is largely unknown. The present study used an online database to identify potential target genes of QXRMY for treating DED. The possible mechanisms of these target genes for the treatment of DED were obtained through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases, Hub genes screened by Cytoscape and intersected with ferroptosis-related genes, and the essential genes were finally obtained based on the results of the analyses. DED cell model and rat model were constructed in this study to validate the critical genes and pathways, and it was confirmed that QXEMY alleviated DED by repressing ferroptosis through inhibiting the HMOX1/HIF-1 pathway. In conclusion, this study integrated network pharmacological analyses and experimental validation to provide an effective method to investigate the molecular mechanism of QXRMY in treating DED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays an important role in brain development and synaptic plasticity. Dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is observed in various human central nervous system diseases, including tuberous sclerosis complex, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. Numerous studies focused on the effects of hyperactivation of mTOR on cortical excitatory neurons, while only a few studies focused on inhibitory neurons. Here we generated transgenic mice in which mTORC1 signaling is hyperactivated in inhibitory neurons in the striatum, while cortical neurons left unaffected. The hyperactivation of mTORC1 signaling increased GABAergic inhibitory neurons in the striatum. The transgenic mice exhibited the upregulation of dopamine receptor D1 and the downregulation of dopamine receptor D2 in medium spiny neurons in the ventral striatum. Finally, the transgenic mice demonstrated impaired motor learning and dysregulated olfactory preference behavior, though the basic function of olfaction was preserved. These findings reveal that the mTORC1 signaling pathway plays an essential role in the development and function of the striatal inhibitory neurons and suggest the critical involvement of the mTORC1 pathway in the locomotor abnormalities in neurodegenerative diseases and the sensory defects in ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted an analysis on the combined effects of two light conditions (L1: greenhouse natural lighting; L2: greenhouse natural lighting plus supplemental lighting (SL)) and three nutrient solution concentrations (EC, NS1: 3.2 dS/m; NS2: 3.7 dS/m; NS3: 4.2 dS/m) on the growth, fruit production, and quality of two cherry tomato cultivars with different fruit coloring ('Baiyu' and 'Qianxi'). The plants subjected to NS2 exhibited enhanced growth, photosynthetic parameters, and fruit production. The utilization of SL further enhanced stem diameter, leaf number, and single fruit weight, resulting in higher fruit weight per plant in 'Baiyu', which was not observed in 'Qianxi'. The growth, fruit size, and fruit weight of both cultivars cultivated under NS3 conditions were suppressed, while these fruits exhibited elevated levels of total soluble solids (TSS), soluble sugars, vitamin C, polyphenols, fructose, glucose, sucrose, citric acid, and carotenoids. These levels were further enhanced by SL treatment. The improvement of fruit quality through the application of SL was found to be cultivar and EC dependent. In 'Baiyu', SL at NS1 significantly enhanced the accumulation of fruit water, minerals (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), TSS, vitamin C, fructose, sucrose, and carotenoids. However, this effect was not observed in 'Qianxi'. The combination of SL and EC 4.2 dS/m (NS3) generally contributes to the enhancement of fruit quality, while SL and EC 3.7 dS/m can ensure consistent fruit production. The yellowish-white fruit cultivar exhibited higher levels of soluble sugars, vitamin C, and polyphenols under L2NS3 conditions compared to the red fruit cultivar, whereas the carotenoid content showed an opposite trend. The findings are anticipated to establish a theoretical foundation for the consistent annual cultivation of cherry tomatoes in protected horticultural settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucan phosphorylase is present in plants in two isozymes, namely, a plastidial isoform (PHO1) and a cytosolic isoform (PHO2), and is involved in starch-related carbohydrate metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine whether mutations in the genes encoding glucan phosphorylase caused these plants to have increased resistance to short-term drought. One of the strategies plants use to defend themselves against drought stress is to change their starch content, which may be due to changes in glucan phosphorylase activity. In our greenhouse pot experiment, we used potato leaves from wild-type plants and transgenic mutant lines with reduced expression of genes encoding both PHO isozymes. The plants were exposed to drought or were grown under optimal conditions. A lack of water strongly affected the water saturation deficit (WSD) and leaf protein content. The activity of the plastidial glucan phosphorylase isoform (PHO1) in mutant plants increased under drought stress, in contrast to its activity in wild-type plants. After analyzing several physiological parameters, we found that suppressed expression of the gene encoding one of the subunits of plastidial glucan phosphorylase, PHO1a, resulted in increased tolerance to drought in potatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]