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Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are common environmental pollutants and may degrade differently with different resulting biotoxicity, when present together. This study investigated the toxicological effects of singular or combined exposure to dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in KM mice. Results indicated that combined exposure led to slower weight gain and an increased leukocyte count in the blood, as well as liver tissue lesions and downregulation of organ coefficients. Additionally, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were elevated in the liver, and glucose, pyruvate, triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (T-CHO) were significantly reduced, suggesting compromised liver function. Furthermore, mRNA levels of genes related to hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism were significantly altered. These findings suggest that combined exposure to DBP and MWCNTs can have severe impacts on liver function in mice, highlighting the importance of considering interactions between multiple contaminants in environmental risk assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of ginkgolide B on the proliferation and apoptosis of esophageal cancer cells and the related mechanisms. Human esophageal cancer OE19 cells were cultured in vitro. They were divided into control group (no intervention), low/medium/high dose test group (adding 6.25, 12.50 and 25.00 μmol/L ginkgolide B, respectively), ginkgolide B group (12.50 μmol/L ginkgolide B), positive drug group (4 mg/L cisplatin) and inhibitor group [12.50 μmol/L ginkgolide B+10.00 μmol/L janus kinase 2/transcriptional activator 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway inhibitor AG490] and activator group (12.50 μmol/L ginkgolide B+0.50 μmol/L JAK2/STAT3 pathway activator Colivelin), 24 h after intervention, cell count kit 8 (CCK-8), 5-acetyl-2' deoxyuridine (EdU) method, Hoechst 33258 staining, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and protein immunoblot (WB) were used to detect cell viability, proliferation rate, apoptosis rate and expression levels of related factors. The results show that: compared with the control group, the cell viability of the medium/high dose test group and positive drug group was decreased (P<0.05), therefore, in this study, 12.50 μmol/L ginkgolide B group with significant difference and lower concentration was selected as ginkgolide B group for follow-up tests. Compared with the control group, the cell proliferation rate, Cyclin D1 mRNA and protein expression levels, p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 protein expression levels of ginkgolide B group and positive drug group were decreased, while the apoptosis rate and Caspase-3 mRNA and protein expression levels were increased (P<0.05). Compared with the ginkgolide B group, the changes of all indexes in inhibitor group were further enhanced (P<0.05). while those in activator group were significantly reversed (P<0.05). Ginkgolide B can inhibit the proliferation of OE19 cells and promote apoptosis of esophageal cancer cells by down-regulating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. This study revealed a new anticancer mechanism of ginkgolide B and provided a theoretical basis for the study of esophageal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the effects of the differential expression of microRNA-126-3p (miR-126) on migration and invasion of human cutaneous melanoma (CM) cell line C8161, and the role of Janus tyrosine protein kinase 2/signaling and transcriptional activator 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process were investigated. Dysregulation of miR-126 was achieved by cell transfection, and miR-126-deregulated cells were treated with the JAK2/STAT3 pathway inhibitor AG490 or the agonist Coumermycin A1. Thus, C8161 cells were divided into 5 groups: control group (without transfection or drug treatment), negative control (NC) group (with mimics control transfection, but no drug treatment), miR-126 group (with miR-126 mimics transfection, but no drug treatment), miR-126 + pathway inhibitor group (with miR-126 mimics transfection and AG490 treatment), miR-126 + pathway agonist group (with miR-126 mimics transfection and Coumermycin A1 treatment). Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression level of miR-126. The expression levels of EMT key proteins and JAK2/STAT3 pathway proteins were determined by Western blotting. Cell viability, migration and invasion abilities were determined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), scratch healing assay and Transwell chamber combined with matrix gel, respectively. Compared with the NC group, transfection with miR-126 mimics significantly increased the expression level of miR-126 in the miR-126 group (#P<0.05), while the relative cell vitality, cell migration rate and cell invasion number significantly decreased (#P<0.05), accompanied with higher protein level of E-cadherin (#P<0.05), and lower protein levels of Vimentin, N-cadherin, fibronectin (FN), JAK2, STAT3, p-JAK2, and p-STAT3, and as well as lower ratios of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3 (#P<0.05). More importantly, compared with NC group and miR-126 group, the above indicators of JAK2 and STAT3 protein levels were further changed in miR-126 + pathway inhibitor group (#P<0.05 and &P<0.05), whereas all the above indexes were less changed in miR-126 + pathway activator group (#P<0.05 and &P<0.05), and cell invasion number and FN, JAK2 and STAT3 protein levels in miR-126 + pathway activator group were little different from NC group without significance. Overexpression of miR-126 inhibits cell viability, migration and invasion of human CM cells presumably by blocking EMT process and inhibiting the activation of JAK2/STAT3 pathway. These results were helpful to provide a new theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of human CM and a new strategy for its treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that leads to deformities and disabilities in patients. Conventional treatment focuses on delaying progression; therefore, new treatments are necessary. The present study reported a novel ionic liquid transdermal platform for efficient RA treatment, and the underlying mechanism was elucidated using FTIR, 1H-NMR, Raman, XPS, and molecular simulations. The results showed that the reversibility of the semi-ionic hydrogen bonding facilitated high drug loading and enhanced drug permeability. Actarit's drug loading had an approximately 11.34-times increase. The in vitro permeability of actarit and ketoprofen was improved by 5.46 and 2.39 times, respectively. And they had the same significant effect in vivo. Furthermore, through the integration of network pharmacology, Western blotting (WB), and radiology analyses, the significant osteoprotective effects of SIHDD-PSA (semi-ionic H-bond double-drug pressure-sensitive adhesive transdermal patch) were revealed through the modulation of the JAK-STAT pathway. The SIHDD-PSA significantly reduced paw swelling and inflammation in the rat model, and stimulatory properties evaluation confirmed the safety of SIHDD-PSA. In conclusion, these findings provide a novel approach for the effective treatment of RA, and the semi-ionic hydrogen bonding strategy contributes a new theoretical basis for developing TDDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The active components, targets, and pathways of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.-Jujubae Fructus in treating hepatocirrhosis and the mechanism of action were explored by means of network pharmacology. Firstly, the active components and related targets of Jujubae Fructus were screened by TCMSP database and standardized by Uniprot database. The compounds of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud. were obtained by searching the literature and finally screened by PubChem database, Swiss ADME, and SwissTargetPrediction. Hepatocirrhosis targets were obtained through Genecards database, PPI network analysis was conducted on common targets of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.-Jujubae Fructus and hepatocirrhosis by using String database, GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was conducted through Metascape database by using intersection targets of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.- Jujubae Fructus and hepatocirrhosis, and the results were drawn by using Weishengxin online drawing platform. Then, the network of drug-compound-target-pathway was constructed by the software of Cytoscape3.8.0. Finally, the above results were verified by molecular docking. 47 active compounds from Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.-Jujubae Fructus were screened out, which had 38 common targets, 162 intersection targets, and 340 signal pathways with hepatocirrhosis, mainly involving hepatitis C, JAK-STAT signal pathway and AGE-RAGE signal pathway. Targets, such as MAPK1, AKT1, TNF, JUN, IL6 and PTGS2, play important roles in the treatment. The findings suggested that the main active ingredients of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.-Jujubae Fructus in treating hepatocirrhosis are quercetin, scopolamine, physcion, 7-deoxyrangduin, 17-Hydroxyjolkinolide A, etc. Molecular docking results showed that the main active components and core targets might have a good binding capacity. This study preliminarily explored the potential mechanism of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.-Jujubae Fructus in treating hepatocirrhosis and provided a theoretical basis for the clinical application of Euphorbia fischeriana Steud.-Jujubae Fructus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) are endogenous lipids that act as agonists of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). Recently, an interest in the role of these lipids in malignant tumors has emerged. Nevertheless, the effects of OEA and PEA on human neuroblastoma cells are still not documented. Type I interferons (IFNs) are immunomodulatory cytokines endowed with antiviral and anti-proliferative actions and are used in the treatment of various pathologies such as different cancer forms (i.e., non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, melanoma, leukemia), hepatitis B, hepatitis C, multiple sclerosis, and many others. In this study, we investigated the effect of OEA and PEA on human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells treated with IFNβ. We focused on evaluating cell viability, cell proliferation, and cell signaling. Co-exposure to either OEA or PEA along with IFNβ leads to increased apoptotic cell death marked by the cleavage of caspase 3 and poly-(ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP) alongside a decrease in survivin and IKBα levels. Moreover, we found that OEA and PEA did not affect IFNβ signaling through the JAK-STAT pathway and the STAT1-inducible protein kinase R (PKR). OEA and PEA also increased the phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression both in full cell lysate and surface membranes. Furthermore, GW6471, a PPARα inhibitor, and the genetic silencing of the receptor were shown to lower PD-L1 and cleaved PARP levels. These results reveal the presence of a novel mechanism, independent of the IFNβ-prompted pathway, by which OEA and PEA can directly impair cell survival, proliferation, and clonogenicity through modulating and potentiating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in human SH-SY5Y cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, mounting evidence has indicated a co-morbid relationship between hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), however, the shared genetic factors underlying this association remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the common genetic architecture between hypothyroidism and RA. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics from recently published studies were utilized to examine the genetic correlation, shared genetic loci, and potential causal relationship between hypothyroidism and RA. Statistical methods included linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC), high-definition likelihood (HDL), cross-trait meta-analyses, colocalization analysis, multi-marker analysis of genomic annotation (MAGMA), tissue-specific enrichment analysis (TSEA), functional enrichment analysis, and latent causal variable method (LCV). Our study demonstrated a significant genetic correlation between hypothyroidism and RA(LDSC:rg=0.3803,p=7.23e-11;HDL:rg=0.3849,p=1.02e-21). Through cross-trait meta-analysis, we identified 1035 loci, including 43 novel genetic loci. By integrating colocalization analysis and the MAGMA algorithm, we found a substantial number of genes, such as PTPN22, TYK2, and CTLA-4, shared between the two diseases, which showed significant enrichment across 14 tissues. These genes were primarily associated with the regulation of alpha-beta T cell proliferation, positive regulation of T cell activation, positive regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion, T cell receptor signaling pathway, and JAK-STAT signaling pathway. However, our study did not reveal a significant causal association between the two diseases using the LCV approach. Based on these findings, there is a significant genetic correlation between hypothyroidism and RA, suggesting a shared genetic basis for these conditions. • The mutual co-morbidity between hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis has become more evident in recent years, but the shared genetic architecture is still unclear. This is the first genome-wide cross-trait analysis that provides novel evidence that hypothyroidism and RA are likely to be genetically interrelates. • The research methods we used is novel. We demonstrated a significant genetic correlation between the two traits through LDSC and HDL. Then, using cross-trait meta-analysis, pleiotropic loci and genes shared by hypothyroidism and RA were found. In addition, tissue-specific enrichment and functional enrichment were conducted to assess the gene expression. Finally, we analysed their causal associations using LCV. • Understanding the genetic basis of hypothyroidism and RA can help in early prediction and allow for drug development and personalized treatment of the comorbidities to improve prognosis, which can produce clinical benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toosendanin (TSN) is the main active component in the traditional herb Melia toosendan Siebold & Zucc, which exhibits promising potential for development due to its diverse pharmacological properties. However, the hepatotoxicity associated with TSN needs further investigation. Previous research has implicated autophagy dysregulation in TSN-induced hepatotoxicity, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, the mechanisms of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in TSN-induced autophagy inhibition and liver injury were explored using Stat3 knockout C57BL/6 mice and HepG2 cells. TSN decreased cell viability, increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) production in vitro , and elevated serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels as well as liver lesions in vivo , suggesting TSN had significant hepatotoxicity. TSN inhibited Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/STAT3 pathway and the expression of cathepsin C (CTSC). Inhibition of STAT3 exacerbated TSN-induced autophagy inhibition and hepatic injury, whereas activation of STAT3 attenuated these effects of TSN. Mechanistically, STAT3 transcriptionally regulated the level of CTSC gene, which in turn affected autophagy and the process of liver injury. TSN-administered Stat3 knockout mice showed more severe hepatotoxicity, CTSC downregulation, and autophagy blockade than wildtype mice. In summary, TSN caused hepatotoxicity by inhibiting STAT3/CTSC axis-dependent autophagy and lysosomal function. [Display omitted] • TSN inhibited JAK2/STAT3 pathway and autophagy in hepatocytes. • TSN inhibited autophagy by STAT3-mediated CTSC downregulation. • Stat3 KO mice were more susceptible to the hepatotoxicity of TSN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs) are pivotal for inhibition of autoimmunity. Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an autoimmune cholestatic liver disease of unknown etiology where contribution of Tregs is still unclear. Activation of the JAK‐STAT pathway critically modifies functions of Tregs. In PSC, we studied activation of STAT proteins and Treg functions in response to cytokines. Methods: In 51 patients with PSC, 10 disease controls (chronic replicative hepatitis C), and 36 healthy controls we analyzed frequencies of Foxp3+CD25+CD127lowCD4+ Tregs, their expression of ectonucleotidase CD39, and cytokine‐induced phosphorylation of STAT1, 3, 5, and 6 using phospho‐flow cytometry. In parallel, we measured cytokines IFN‐gamma, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐2, and IL‐4 in serum via bead‐based immunoassays. Results: In patients with PSC, ex vivo frequencies of peripheral Tregs and their expression of CD39 were significantly reduced (p <.05 each). Furthermore, serum levels of IFN‐gamma, IL‐6, IL‐2, and IL‐4 were markedly higher in PSC (p <.05 each). Unlike activation of STAT1, STAT5, and STAT6, IL‐6 induced increased phosphorylation of STAT3 in Tregs of PSC‐patients (p =.0434). Finally, STAT3 activation in Tregs correlated with leukocyte counts. Conclusions: In PSC, we observed enhanced STAT3 responsiveness of CD4+ Tregs together with reduced CD39 expression probably reflecting inflammatory activity of the disease. Lay summary: We demonstrated that PSC is associated with reduced Treg frequencies and low CD39 expression in combination with increased levels of inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6. Moreover, IL‐6 exposure leads to enhanced STAT3 activation in Tregs, which further contributes to reduced inhibitory function and increased inflammatory activity in PSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Keloid represents a benign skin tumor with many cancer‐like features. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs) play a role in cell migration of multiple diseases. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the impact of hADSC‐EVs on human keloid fibroblasts (HKFs). Methods: hADSCs were cultured to the 3rd generation, and subsequently assessed for their osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic differentiative abilities using flow cytometry, alizarin red, oil red O, and alcian blue staining techniques. hADSC‐EVs were isolated through ultracentrifugation and subsequently identified. HKFs at the 3rd generation were subjected to treatment with hADSC‐EVs to observe their endocytosis of EVs by immunofluorescence. CCK‐8, wound healing, and Transwell assays were performed to test HKF proliferation and migration. The levels of autophagy proteins, collagens, and Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) were determined through Western blot analysis. Suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) expression was determined by RT‐qPCR and Western blot. Results: hADSC‐EVs were successfully isolated from hADSCs. PKH67‐labeled hADSC‐EVs were observed to be endocytosed by HKFs, resulting the inhibition of HKF proliferation, migration, as well as a reduction in collagen deposition. hADSC‐EVs carried SOCS1 into HKFs to suppress HKF autophagy. SOCS1 downregulation in hADSC‐EVs partially nullified the inhibitory effect of hADSC‐EVs on HKFs. hADSC‐EV‐carried SOCS1 inhibited the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation partially abrogated the suppression of hADSC‐EVs on the proliferation, migration, and collagen deposition of HKF. Conclusion: hADSC‐EVs carried SOCS1 into HKFs and suppressed HKF autophagy, proliferation, migration, and collagen deposition by inactivating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging leads to a decrease in muscle function, mass, and strength in skeletal muscle of animals and humans. The transcriptome identified activation of the JAK/STAT pathway, a pathway that is associated with skeletal muscle atrophy, and endurance training has a significant effect on improving sarcopenia; however, the exact mechanism still requires further study. We investigated the effect of endurance training on sarcopenia. Six-month-old male SAMR1 mice were used as a young control group (group C), and the same month-old male SAMP8 mice were divided into an exercise group (group E) and a model group (group M). A 3-month running exercise intervention was performed on group E, and the other two groups were kept normally. Aging caused significant signs of sarcopenia in the SAMP8 mice, and endurance training effectively improved muscle function, muscle mass, and muscle strength in the SAMP8 mice. The expression of JAK2/STAT3 pathway factor was decreased in group E compared with group M, and the expression of SOCS3, the target gene of STAT3, and NR1D1, an atrophy-related factor, was significantly increased. Endurance training significantly improved the phenotypes associated with sarcopenia, and the JAK2/STAT3 pathway is a possible mechanism for the improvement of sarcopenia by endurance training, while NR1D1 may be its potential target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, discusses the antioxidant effects of medicinal plants in oro-dental medicine. It explores the potential of bioactive compounds extracted from plants to reduce the risk of oro-dental pathologies such as periodontitis and oral cancer. The article emphasizes the importance of further research to determine the effectiveness of these compounds in vivo. It also highlights the role of a balanced lifestyle and healthy diet in preventing and reducing the risk of pathologies associated with oxidative stress. The document provides a table of medicinal plants known for their antioxidant effects and discusses their potential use in the treatment of oral diseases. It also includes references related to the antioxidant properties of medicinal plants and their potential applications in healthcare. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the use of Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors for the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP), a chronic inflammatory condition. It discusses the role of the JAK-STAT pathway in the development of OLP and examines the current landscape of topical JAK inhibitors. The article highlights recent clinical trials and observational studies that suggest the potential of these agents in managing OLP. However, more research is needed to establish their efficacy and safety profiles. JAK inhibitors offer new hope for OLP patients, but further investigation is necessary. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "3Cpro of FMDV inhibits type II interferon-stimulated JAK-STAT signaling pathway by blocking STAT1 nuclear translocation" published in Virologica Sinica. The correction addresses mistakes in several figures, including incorrect positioning of bands and incorrect labeling. The authors apologize for the oversight and state that these corrections do not affect the scientific conclusions of the article. [Extracted from the article]

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) poses a significant threat to women's health worldwide. Eupatilin is a key bioactive component of the Chinese herbal medicine Artemisia asiatica Nakai. Recent research reports have proved the inhibitory function of Eupatilin in many diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 21–23 nucleotide‐long, single‐stranded, noncoding RNA molecules generated endogenously, and many studies have indicated that miRNAs are involved in the development of osteoporosis. This study explored the role and potential mechanism of Eupatilin underlying PMOP. First, rats were given intragastric administration of Eupatilin every day and subcutaneous injections of oligonucleotides or plasmids that interfered with miR‐211‐5p or janus kinase 2 (JAK2) once a week. After 4 weeks, the PMOP rat model was established. Then, serum alkaline phosphatase, calcium, and phosphorus levels, as well as femur bone mineral density and biomechanical parameters, were detected. Hematoxylin–eosin staining and Masson staining were applied for detecting the pathological condition of femur, and immunohistochemical staining was for detecting osteocalcin. MC3T3‐E1 cells were transfected with plasmid vectors interfering with miR‐211‐5p or JAK2; and cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase cytotoxicity, and cell mineralization were subsequently examined. The relationship between miR‐211‐5p and JAK2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway was analyzed. The targeting relation between miR‐211‐5p and JAK2 was also verified. The experimental results revealed that Eupatilin improved the pathological conditions of PMOP rats by promoting the proliferation and mineralization of osteoblasts. MiR‐211‐5p was down‐regulated and JAK2/STAT3 was upregulated in PMOP rats. Upregulation of miR‐211‐5p further improved the pathological conditions of PMOP rats based on Eupatilin treatment. MiR‐211‐5p inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. JAK2 offset the effects of elevated miR‐211‐5p on PMOP rats. Overall, Eupatilin attenuates PMOP through elevating miR‐211‐5p and repressing JAK2/STAT3 pathway, which suggests the utility of Eupatilin as a potential drug for POMP treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT RNA interference (RNAi) drives powerful antiviral immunity in plants and animals so that many viruses must express viral suppressor of RNAi (VSR) to establish virulent infection. However, little is known about the immune responses conferring resistance against viruses that have evolved the counter-defensive strategy to suppress antiviral RNAi. In this study, we discover that Drosophila cells infected with Drosophila C virus (DCV), a natural viral pathogen of Drosophila known to harbor a potent VSR, exhibit heightened expression of circular RNA circZfh1. circZfh1 confers virus resistance in the presence of viral suppression of antiviral RNAi. Furthermore, we validate that circZfh1 encodes a 274-amino acid protein, CRAV, essential for its antiviral activity. Notably, CRAV differs from its parental Zfh1 gene in a different reading frame, with the C-terminal 69 amino acids unique to CRAV. Our analysis also reveals the presence of CRAV in species within the melanogaster subgroup, with the C-terminal unique fragment undergoing accelerated evolution. Expression of CRAV upregulates the expression of the cytokine Upd3, which binds to its receptor, stimulating the JAK-STAT pathway and enhancing the immune response to DCV infection. Notably, CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of circZfh1 significantly enhances DCV replication in vitro and in vivo, with circZfh1-knockout adult flies displaying heightened disease susceptibility to DCV. In summary, our findings unveil a Drosophila protein-coding circular RNA that activates an innate immune signaling pathway crucial for virus resistance following the suppression of antiviral RNAi by viruses, thereby elucidating a novel counter-defensive strategy.IMPORTANCEEukaryotic hosts possess a complex, multilayered immune system that guards against pathogen invasion. In fruit flies, RNA interference (RNAi) drives robust antiviral immunity, prompting many viruses to express viral suppressors of RNAi (VSRs) to establish virulent infections. However, little is known about immune responses that confer resistance against viruses with potent VSRs. In this study, we discovered that Drosophila cells infected with Drosophila C virus (DCV), a natural viral pathogen possessing a potent VSR, upregulated the expression of circular RNA circZfh1. circZfh1 exhibits DCV-specific antiviral activity, encoding a 274-amino acid protein, CRAV, crucial for its antiviral effects. As a different reading frame from its parental Zfh1 gene, the C-terminal 69 amino acids are unique to CRAV, undergoing faster evolution. CRAV activates the JAK-STAT pathway, enhancing the immune response to DCV infection. Therefore, our work uncovers a new strategy for suppressing viral counter-defense through protein-coding circular RNA in fruit flies.

SOCS (Suppressor of Cytokine Signalling) proteins are intracellular negative regulators that primarily modulate and inhibit cytokine-mediated signal transduction, playing a crucial role in immune homeostasis and related inflammatory diseases. SOCS act as inhibitors by regulating the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway, thereby intervening in the pathogenesis of inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Recent studies have also demonstrated their involvement in central immunity and neuroinflammation, showing a dual functionality. However, the specific mechanisms of SOCS in the central nervous system remain unclear. This review thoroughly elucidates the specific mechanisms linking the SOCS-JAK-STAT pathway with the inflammatory manifestations of neurodegenerative diseases. Based on this, it proposes the theory that SOCS proteins can regulate the JAK-STAT pathway and inhibit the occurrence of neuroinflammation. Additionally, this review explores in detail the current therapeutic landscape and potential of targeting SOCS in the brain via the JAK-STAT pathway for neuroinflammation, offering insights into potential targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

The inflammatory microenvironment and neurotoxicity can hinder neuronal regeneration and functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Ruxolitinib, a JAK-STAT inhibitor, exhibits effectiveness in autoimmune diseases, arthritis, and managing inflammatory cytokine storms. Although studies have shown the neuroprotective potential of ruxolitinib in neurological trauma, the exact mechanism by which it enhances functional recovery after spinal cord injury, particularly its effect on astrocytes, remains unclear. To address this gap, we established a mouse model of T10 spinal cord contusion and found that ruxolitinib effectively improved hindlimb motor function and reduced the area of spinal cord injury. Transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that ruxolitinib alleviated inflammation and immune response after spinal cord injury, restored EAAT2 expression, reduced glutamate levels, and alleviated excitatory toxicity. Furthermore, ruxolitinib inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 in the injured spinal cord and decreased the phosphorylation level of nuclear factor kappa-B and the expression of inflammatory factors interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Additionally, in glutamate-induced excitotoxicity astrocytes, ruxolitinib restored EAAT2 expression and increased glutamate uptake by inhibiting the activation of STAT3, thereby reducing glutamate-induced neurotoxicity, calcium influx, oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis, and increasing the complexity of dendritic branching. Collectively, these results indicate that ruxolitinib restores glutamate homeostasis by rescuing the expression of EAAT2 in astrocytes, reduces neurotoxicity, and effectively alleviates inflammatory and immune responses after spinal cord injury, thereby promoting functional recovery after spinal cord injury.

Background: LINC00324 is a long-stranded non-coding RNA, which is aberrantly expressed in various cancers and is associated with poor prognosis and clinical features. It involves multiple oncogenic molecular pathways affecting cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. However, the expression, function, and mechanism of LINC00324 in glioma have not been reported. Material and methods: We assessed the expression of LINC00324 of LINC00324 in glioma patients based on data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) to identify pathways involved in LINC00324-related glioma pathogenesis. Results: Based on our findings, we observed differential expression of LINC00324 between tumor and normal tissues in glioma patients. Our analysis of overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) indicated that glioma patients with high LINC00324 expression had a poorer prognosis compared to those with low LINC00324 expression. By integrating clinical data and genetic signatures from TCGA patients, we developed a nomogram to predict OS and DSS in glioma patients. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that several pathways, including JAK/STAT3 signaling, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, STAT5 signaling, NF-κB activation, and apoptosis, were differentially enriched in glioma samples with high LINC00324 expression. Furthermore, we observed significant correlations between LINC00324 expression, immune infiltration levels, and expression of immune checkpoint-related genes (HAVCR2: r = 0.627, P = 1.54e-77; CD40: r = 0.604, P = 1.36e-70; ITGB2: r = 0.612, P = 6.33e-7; CX3CL1: r = -0.307, P = 9.24e-17). These findings highlight the potential significance of LINC00324 in glioma progression and suggest avenues for further research and potential therapeutic targets. Conclusion: Indeed, our results confirm that the LINC00324 signature holds promise as a prognostic predictor in glioma patients. This finding opens up new possibilities for understanding the disease and may offer valuable insights for the development of targeted therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The family of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS) acts as a controller of the duration and intensity of cytokine function by negatively regulating the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. SOCS’ role in inflammatory diseases in animal models is well demonstrated. However, its role in the development of human disease is still under investigation. SOCS3 plays an important role in tumor development where its downregulation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various solid tumors such as triple-negative breast cancer. Aim: The aim of this work was to study (1) the expression of SOCS3 in smokers’ lungs and its relation to the degree of inflammation and (2) SOCS3 regulation by microRNA (miRNA) in alveolar-macrophage (AM)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Methods: Group A: 35 smokers’ [19 with COPD (SC) and 16 without COPD (S)] and 9 nonsmokers (NS); SOCS3, TNFα in AM, and CD8+ T cells were quantified by immunohistochemistry, in lung tissue. Group B: additional 9 SC, 11 S, and 5 NS; AM-EVs expressing SOCS3 (CD14+SOCS3+) and SOCS3 suppressors miRNA-19a-3p and 221-3p in EVs were quantified by flow cytometry and PCR, in BAL. Results: The percentage of SOCS3+ AM was higher in SC [68 (6.6–99)%] and S [48 (8–100)%] than in NS [9.6 (1.9–61)%; p = 0.002; p = 0.03] and correlated with % of TNFα+AM (r = 0.48; p = 0.0009) and CD8+ T cells (r = 0.44; p = 0.0029). In BAL, the CD14+SOCS3+ EVs/μL were increased in SC [33 (21–74)] compared to S [16 (8–37); p = 0.03] and NS [9 (7–21); p = 0.003]. Conversely, miRNA-19a-3p and miRNA-221-3p expression were increased in S when compared to SC [19 (2–53) vs. 3 (0.6–8); p = 0.03 and 3 (0.005–9.6) vs. 0.2 (0.08–0.7); p = 0.05]. Conclusions: The suppressor function of SOCS3 in COPD seems to be overridden by other factors and does not follow the animal-model paradigm. Expression of SOCS3 in BAL macrophage-derived EVs might be useful to assess the degree of inflammation and possible progression of COPD. Downregulation of SOCS3, by miRNA, in smokers without COPD might contribute to the risk of developing cancer in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CCR5 serves as R5-tropic HIV co-receptor. Knocking out CCR5 in HIV patients, which has occurred <10 times, is believed important for cure. JAK/STAT inhibitors tofacitinib and ruxolitinib inhibit CCR5 expression in HIV+ viremic patients. We investigated the association of JAK/STAT signaling pathway with CCR5/CCR2 expression in human primary CD4+ T cells and confirmed its importance. Six of nine JAK/STAT inhibitors that reduced CCR5/CCR2 expression were identified. Inhibitor-treated CD4+ T cells were relatively resistant, specifically to R5-tropic HIV infection. Furthermore, single JAK2, STAT3, STAT5A, and STAT5B knockout and different combinations of JAK/STAT knockout significantly reduced CCR2/CCR5 expression of both RNA and protein levels, indicating that CCR5/CCR2 expression was positively regulated by JAK-STAT pathway in CD4+ T cells. Serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) knockout affected CCR2/CCR5 gene expression, suggesting that SGK1 is involved in CCR2/CCR5 regulation. If cell surface CCR5 levels can be specifically and markedly down-regulated without adverse effects, that may have a major impact on the HIV cure agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemoresistance is a challenge in cancer treatment, limiting the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Mushroom extracts have shown potential as treatments for cancer therapies, offering a possible solution to overcome chemoresistance. This systematic review aimed to explore the role of mushroom extracts in enhancing chemotherapy and reversing chemoresistance in cancer cells. We searched the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases, following the PRISMA guidelines, and registered on PROSPERO. The extracts acted by inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells, as well as enhancing the effect of chemotherapy. The mechanisms by which they acted included regulating anti-apoptotic proteins, inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 pathway, inhibiting the ERK1/2 pathway, modulating microRNAs and regulating p-glycoprotein. These results highlight the potential of mushroom extracts to modulate multiple mechanisms in order to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy. This work sheds light on the use of mushroom extracts as an aid to chemotherapy to combat chemoresistance. Although studies are limited, the diversity of mushrooms and their bioactive compounds show promising results for innovative strategies to treat cancer more effectively. It is crucial to carry out further studies to better understand the therapeutic potential of mushroom extracts to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy in cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac fibrosis is a serious health problem because it is a common pathological change in almost all forms of cardiovascular diseases. Cardiac fibrosis is characterized by the transdifferentiation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) into cardiac myofibroblasts and the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components produced by activated myofibroblasts, which leads to fibrotic scar formation and subsequent cardiac dysfunction. However, there are currently few effective therapeutic strategies protecting against fibrogenesis. This lack is largely because the molecular mechanisms of cardiac fibrosis remain unclear despite extensive research. The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling cascade is an extensively present intracellular signal transduction pathway and can regulate a wide range of biological processes, including cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, apoptosis, and immune response. Various upstream mediators such as cytokines, growth factors and hormones can initiate signal transmission via this pathway and play corresponding regulatory roles. STAT3 is a crucial player of the JAK/STAT pathway and its activation is related to inflammation, malignant tumors and autoimmune illnesses. Recently, the JAK/STAT3 signaling has been in the spotlight for its role in the occurrence and development of cardiac fibrosis and its activation can promote the proliferation and activation of CFs and the production of ECM proteins, thus leading to cardiac fibrosis. In this manuscript, we discuss the structure, transactivation and regulation of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway and review recent progress on the role of this pathway in cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, we summarize the current challenges and opportunities of targeting the JAK/STAT3 signaling for the treatment of fibrosis. In summary, the information presented in this article is critical for comprehending the role of the JAK/STAT3 pathway in cardiac fibrosis, and will also contribute to future research aimed at the development of effective anti-fibrotic therapeutic strategies targeting the JAK/STAT3 signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an inflammatory disease with a disrupted immune system, cytokine disorders in atopic dermatitis (AD) are closely related to the abnormal activation of JAKSTAT signal pathway. The critical relevance of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway to the pathogenesis of AD provides a strong rationale for JAK inhibitor research. Baricitinib, a small-molecule oral JAK inhibitor, has been proven to inhibit JAKSTAT signaling in a variety of diseases, including AD. It is currently available in China for off-label use. However, its efficacy in China and its mechanism are rarely reported. In our study, we found that the immune status of patients with moderate and severe AD was hyperactive. Among the 49 known immunotherapy targets, JAK1 and JAK2 genes on lymphocytes of AD patients were significantly upregulated, which was closely related to the symptom severity in moderate and severe AD patients. Baricitinib can improve immune hyperresponsiveness and clinical symptoms in moderate and severe AD by inhibiting the activation of Th2 cell subsets and the secretion of Th2-type cytokines through MAPK, mTOR and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, providing an important theoretical basis for clinical off-label use of Baricitinib to treat moderate and severe AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gypenoside is a natural extract of Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Thunb.) Makino, a plant in the Cucurbitaceae family. It has been reported to have antitumor effects on the proliferation, migration and apoptosis of various types of cancer cells. However, the use of gypenoside in the treatment of gastric cancer has not been studied. In the present study, we explored the therapeutic effect of gypenoside on gastric cancer and the potential molecular mechanism. Methods and Results: Our results showed that gypenoside induced apoptosis in HGC-27 and SGC-7901 cells in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner. Network pharmacology analyses predicted that gypenoside exerts its therapeutic effects through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Furthermore, molecular docking and western blot experiments confirmed that gypenoside induced the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In addition, network pharmacological analysis revealed that the common targets of gypenoside in gastric cancer were enriched in the immune effector process, PD-L1 expression, the PD-1 checkpoint pathway, and the Jak-STAT signaling pathway. Furthermore, molecular docking and western blot assays demonstrated that gypenoside could bind to STAT3 and reduce its phosphorylation. Thus, the transcription of PD-L1 was inhibited in gastric cancer cells. Moreover, coculture experiments of gastric cancer cells with gypenoside and primary mouse CD8+ T cells showed that gastric cancer cells treated with gypenoside could enhance the antitumor ability of T cells. Animal experiments confirmed the antitumor effect of gypenoside, and the expression of PD-L1 was significantly downregulated in the gypenoside-treated group. Conclusion: Gypenoside induced the apoptosis of gastric cancer cells by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and simultaneously inhibited the expression of PD-L1 in gastric cancer cells, thus enhancing the antitumor immunity of T cells. This study provides a theoretical basis for applying gypenoside as a new therapeutic agent to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy in gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) are congenital malformations of the central nervous system resulting from the incomplete closure of the neural tube during early embryonic development. Neuroinflammation refers to the inflammatory response in the nervous system, typically resulting from damage to neural tissue. Immune-related processes have been identified in NTDs, however, the detailed relationship and underlying mechanisms between neuroinflammation and NTDs remain largely unclear. In this study, we utilized integrated multi-omics analysis to explore the role of neuroinflammation in NTDs and identify potential prenatal diagnostic markers using a murine model. Methods: Nine public datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and ArrayExpress were mined using integrated multi-omics analysis to characterize the molecular landscape associated with neuroinflammation in NTDs. Special attention was given to the involvement of macrophages in neuroinflammation within amniotic fluid, as well as the dynamics of macrophage polarization and their interactions with neural cells at single-cell resolution. We also used qPCR assay to validate the key TFs and candidate prenatal diagnostic genes identified through the integrated analysis in a retinoic acid-induced NTDs mouse model. Results: Our analysis indicated that neuroinflammation is a critical pathological feature of NTDs, regulated both transcriptionally and epigenetically within central nervous system tissues. Key alterations in gene expression and pathways highlighted the crucial role of STATs molecules in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in regulating NTDs-associated neuroinflammation. Furthermore, single-cell resolution analysis revealed significant polarization of macrophages and their interaction with neural cells in amniotic fluid, underscoring their central role in mediating neuroinflammation associated with NTDs. Finally, we identified a set of six potential prenatal diagnostic genes, including FABP7, CRMP1, SCG3, SLC16A10, RNASE6 and RNASE1, which were subsequently validated in a murine NTDs model, indicating their promise as prospective markers for prenatal diagnosis of NTDs. Conclusions: Our study emphasizes the pivotal role of neuroinflammation in the progression of NTDs and underlines the potential of specific inflammatory and neural markers as novel prenatal diagnostic tools. These findings provide important clues for further understanding the underlying mechanisms between neuroinflammation and NTDs, and offer valuable insights for the future development of prenatal diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Ischemic stroke is a serious threat to human health. After ischemia and hypoxia, astrocyte expresses lipocalin-2 in large amounts to aggravate brain injury, but the specific mechanism is not clear. Hydroxysafflor yellow A has anti-ischemia, anti-oxidation, anti-thrombosis and anti-inflammatory effects. However, whether hydroxysafflor yellow A affects the expression of lipocalin-2 in astrocytes after cerebral ischemia and hypoxia and its mechanism are not clear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect and mechanism of hydroxysafflor yellow A on the expression of lipocalin-2 in astrocytes after cerebral ischemia and reperfusion. METHODS: (1) Thirty adult SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham operation group, middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion group, and hydroxysafflor yellow A group. The middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion model was established in the latter two groups, and hydroxysafflor yellow A group was intraperitoneally injected with 12 mg/kg hydroxysafflor yellow A after reperfusion. Longa score was used to evaluate the degree of neurological impairment. Infarct volume was determined by TTC staining. JAK2/STAT3 pathway and lipocalin-2 expression were detected by western blot assay and immunofluorescence. Levels of interleukin 1β, interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α were detected by ELISA. (2) Astrocytes were divided into four groups: Normal group, glucose-oxygen deprivation group, hydroxysafflor yellow A group and AG490 group. In the latter three groups, glucose-oxygen deprivation and glucose-oxygen recovery models were established. Astrocytes were treated with 75 μmol/L hydroxysafflor yellow A and 10 μmol/L tyrosine phosphorylation inhibitor AG490 for 8 hours during glucose-oxygen deprivation, respectively. The mechanism of hydroxysafflor yellow A on lipocalin-2 was further verified. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with the sham operation group, cerebral infarction was significantly increased in the middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion group, accompanied by aggravated neurological impairment (P < 0.01). Hydroxysafflor yellow A treatment could reduce cerebral infarction volume and improve neurological function (P < 0.01). (2) The expressions of p-JAK2, p-STAT3 and lipocalin-2 in the middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion group were higher than those in the sham operation group (P < 0.01). Hydroxysafflor yellow A treatment reduced the expressions of JAK2, STAT3 and lipocalin-2 (P < 0.01). (3) The expression levels of interleukin 1β, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor α in the middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion group were higher than those in the sham operation group (P < 0.01). Hydroxysafflor yellow A inhibited the expressions of interleukin 1β, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor α (P < 0.01). (4) In vitro, the expressions of p-JAK2, p-STAT3 and lipocalin-2 in the glucose-oxygen deprivation group were significantly higher than those in the normal group (P < 0.01). After adding AG490, the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 decreased, and the expression of lipocalin-2 was inhibited (P < 0.01). The results suggest that hydroxysafflor yellow A may inhibit the expression of lipocalin-2 in astrocytes after ischemia and hypoxia by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby reducing brain injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain metastasis is the most lethal metastatic site for patients with breast cancer, and the incidence of brain metastasis is increasing every year. Microglia act a pivotal part in promoting the proliferation and metastasis of breast cancer cells in the brain. Therefore, understanding the biological process of brain metastasis in breast cancer is important to improve therapeutic outcomes and prolong the survival of patients. The role of microglia on the prognosis of patients with breast cancer with brain metastasis was verified by immunohistochemistry and the Kaplan–Meier curve. Cell experiments in vitro were used to analyze the effect of microglia on cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Knockdown of cell migration-inducing hyaluronan-binding protein (CEMIP) expression and co-culture experiments were carried out to study the mechanism of microglia on the progression of brain metastasis of breast cancer. We found that microglia may shorten the survival time of patients with breast cancer by regulating the expression of CEMIP in brain metastatic tumors. Co-culture experiments in vitro indicated that microglia enhance the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of brain metastatic breast cancer cells; however, the knockdown of CEMIP expression suppresses this effect. In addition, we also found that CEMIP expression, increased by microglia, activates the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in brain metastatic breast cancer cells, which induces the secretion of CCL2, IL-6, TGF-β, and VEGF. CCL2 recruits microglia to gather around brain metastases, whereas IL-6, TGF-β, and VEGF induce high CEMIP expression, triggering a positive feedback loop between microglia and brain metastatic breast cancer cells. Our study proposes a possible mechanism of microglia promoting brain metastasis of breast cancer, indicating that both microglia and CEMIP may be valuable therapeutic targets for patients with breast cancer with brain metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) encompass a diverse spectrum of genetic disorders that disrupt the intricate mechanisms of the immune system, leading to a variety of clinical manifestations. Traditionally associated with an increased susceptibility to recurrent infections, IEIs have unveiled a broader clinical landscape, encompassing immune dysregulation disorders characterized by autoimmunity, severe allergy, lymphoproliferation, and even malignancy. This review delves into the intricate interplay between IEIs and the JAK–STAT signaling pathway, a critical regulator of immune homeostasis. Mutations within this pathway can lead to a wide array of clinical presentations, even within the same gene. This heterogeneity poses a significant challenge, necessitating individually tailored therapeutic approaches to effectively manage the diverse manifestations of these disorders. Additionally, JAK–STAT pathway defects can lead to simultaneous susceptibility to both infection and immune dysregulation. JAK inhibitors, with their ability to suppress JAK–STAT signaling, have emerged as powerful tools in controlling immune dysregulation. However, questions remain regarding the optimal selection and dosing regimens for each specific condition. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) holds promise as a curative therapy for many JAK–STAT pathway disorders, but this procedure carries significant risks. The use of JAK inhibitors as a bridge to HSCT has been proposed as a potential strategy to mitigate these risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a summary of a journal article titled "Interferons in Viral Infections." The article discusses the role of interferons (IFNs) in inhibiting viral replication in host cells by triggering innate immune responses. It explains how viral nucleic acids are recognized by cellular sensor proteins called pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which activate downstream signaling cascades that induce the production of type-I IFNs and other proinflammatory cytokines. The article also includes a compilation of studies on interferon signaling during viral infection, covering topics such as the influence of IFNLR1 isoforms on cellular responses to interferons, the activation of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in Varicella zoster virus infection, and the role of IRF3 and NF-κB in interferon production and antiviral activity. The review articles discuss the role of IFIT proteins in different pathologies, the involvement of STING in herpes simplex virus replication, and the transcriptional and non-transcriptional activation of IRF3 during viral infection. The conclusion highlights the importance of further research in understanding interferon production and signaling pathways and their potential for therapeutic applications. [Extracted from the article]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogenous malignancy underpinned by dysregulation of cellular signaling pathways. Previous literature has implicated aberrant JAK/STAT3 signal transduction in the development and progression of solid tumors. In this study we investigate the effectiveness of inhibiting JAK/STAT3 in diverse CRC models, establish in which contexts high pathway expression is prognostic and perform in depth analysis underlying phenotypes. In this study we investigated the use of JAK inhibitors for anti-cancer activity in CRC cell lines, mouse model organoids and patient-derived organoids. Immunohistochemical staining of the TransSCOT clinical trial cohort, and 2 independent large retrospective CRC patient cohorts was performed to assess the prognostic value of JAK/STAT3 expression. We performed mutational profiling, bulk RNASeq and NanoString GeoMx® spatial transcriptomics to unravel the underlying biology of aberrant signaling. Inhibition of signal transduction with JAK1/2 but not JAK2/3 inhibitors reduced cell viability in CRC cell lines, mouse, and patient derived organoids (PDOs). In PDOs, reduced Ki67 expression was observed post-treatment. A highly significant association between high JAK/STAT3 expression within tumor cells and reduced cancer-specific survival in patients with high stromal invasion (TSPhigh) was identified across 3 independent CRC patient cohorts, including the TrasnSCOT clinical trial cohort. Patients with high phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3) within the TSPhigh group had higher influx of CD66b + cells and higher tumoral expression of PDL1. Bulk RNAseq of full section tumors showed enrichment of NFκB signaling and hypoxia in these cases. Spatial deconvolution through GeoMx® demonstrated higher expression of checkpoint and hypoxia-associated genes in the tumor (pan-cytokeratin positive) regions, and reduced lymphocyte receptor signaling in the TME (pan-cytokeratin- and αSMA-) and αSMA (pan-cytokeratin- and αSMA +) areas. Non-classical fibroblast signatures were detected across αSMA + regions in cases with high pSTAT3. Therefore, in this study we have shown that inhibition of JAK/STAT3 represents a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with stromal-rich CRC tumors. High expression of JAK/STAT3 proteins within both tumor and stromal cells predicts poor outcomes in CRC, and aberrant signaling is associated with distinct spatially-dependant differential gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case report on the treatment of severe haemophilia B using a combination therapy of sodium valproate and sirolimus. The patient, an 18-year-old Chinese male, had been diagnosed with severe haemophilia B at a young age and had experienced joint bleeding and deterioration. Through quantitative transcriptome analysis, the researchers predicted and administered the combination therapy, which resulted in improved motor function and quality of life for the patient. However, the study acknowledges the limitation of a small sample size and the need for further validation and investigation of the mechanisms of action of these drugs. [Extracted from the article]

Angelicae pubescentis radix (APR) has been traditionally used for thousands of years in China to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disorder. As the main active coumarin of APR, columbianadin (CBN) exhibits a significant anti-inflammatory effect in vitro. However, the anti-inflammatory activity and underlying mechanism of CBN in vivo remain unclear. This work aimed to elucidate the anti-inflammatory activity of CBN in vivo and its related signaling pathways in a D-Gal-induced liver injury mouse model. Analysis of biochemical indices (ALT and AST) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) in serum indicated that CBN significantly ameliorated D-Gal-induced liver injury. CBN treatment also significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx), and decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) in liver tissue. Liver histology revealed that CBN treatment reduced hepatic inflammation. Western blot analysis indicated that CBN down-regulates the expression of phosphorylated JAK2, STAT3, MAPK, and NF-κB in the related signaling pathways. These findings support the traditional use of APR as a remedy for the immune system, and indicate that the JAK2/STAT3 and JAK2/p38/NF-κB signaling pathways may be important mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory activity of CBN in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: SHP1 has been documented as a tumor suppressor and it was thought to play an antagonistic role in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori infection. In this study, the exact mechanism of this antagonistic action was studied. Materials and Methods: AGS, MGC803, and GES‐1 cells were infected with H. pylori, intracellular distribution changes of SHP1 were first detected by immunofluorescence. SHP1 overexpression and knockdown were then constructed in these cells to investigate its antagonistic roles in H. pylori infection. Migration and invasion of infected cells were detected by transwell assay, secretion of IL‐8 was examined via ELISA, the cells with hummingbird‐like alteration were determined by microexamination, and activation of JAK2/STAT3, PI3K/Akt, and ERK pathways were detected by immunoblotting. Mice infection model was established and gastric pathological changes were evaluated. Finally, the SHP1 activator sorafenib was used to analyze the attenuating effect of SHP1 activation on H. pylori pathogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Results: The sub‐localization of SHP1 changed after H. pylori infection, specifically that the majority of the cytoplasmic SHP1 was transferred to the cell membrane. SHP1 inhibited H. pylori‐induced activation of JAK2/STAT3 pathway, PI3K/Akt pathway, nuclear translocation of NF‐κB, and then reduced EMT, migration, invasion, and IL‐8 secretion. In addition, SHP1 inhibited the formation of CagA‐SHP2 complex by dephosphorylating phosphorylated CagA, reduced ERK phosphorylation and the formation of CagA‐dependent hummingbird‐like cells. In the mice infection model, gastric pathological changes were observed and increased IL‐8 secretion, indicators of cell proliferation and EMT progression were also detected. By activating SHP1 with sorafenib, a significant curative effect against H. pylori infection was obtained in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: SHP1 plays an antagonistic role in H. pylori pathogenesis by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt pathways, NF‐κB nuclear translocation, and CagA phosphorylation, thereby reducing cell EMT, migration, invasion, IL‐8 secretion, and hummingbird‐like changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle often associated with viral infections and can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy. Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) is a small endosomal membrane protein with anti-viral activity against multiple viruses and is also implicated in non-infectious diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. Since the IFITM3 proteins are expressed both in T cells and in cardiomyocytes, it is reasonable to hypothesize that these molecules could affect myocarditis either through their effect on the autoimmune response or through direct modulation of cardiomyocyte damage. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of IFITM3 in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM)-mediated myocardial injury. Immunization of rats with cardiac myosin results in substantial cardiac inflammation and is associated with increased expression of IFITM3 after 21 days. In vivo IFITM3 shRNA knockdown using the lentivirus transfection method reduced cardiac injury while restoring IFITM3 expression reversed the protective effect of IFITM3 RNA interference. To determine the direct impact of IFITM3, the rat ventricular cell line, H9c2, was treated with palmitic acid which causes apoptosis in these cells. Suppressing IFITM3 expression protects H9c2 cells while overexpressing IFITM3 enhances cell injury. JAK inhibitors reduced IFITM3-mediated myocardial cell injury. In conclusion, IFITM3 may mediate myocardial injury in EAM rats and palmitic acid-induced damage to H9c2 cells through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. [Display omitted] • IFITM3 may mediate myocardial injury in EAM rats and palmitic acid-induced damage to H9c2 cells through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. • IFITM3 may be an effective target for the prevention and treatment of myocardial injury. • IFITM3 is expected to provide effective drug development strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron has been found to be involved in the tumor cell proliferation process, which can lead to the increased sensitivity of cancer cells to ferroptosis. Since erianin is associated with oxidative stress in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we hypothesized that the therapeutic effect and mechanism of erianin on HCC is related to ferroptosis. HCC cells were stimulated with increase of erianin concentrations for 24 h, and the survival rates of Huh‐7 and HepG2 cells gradually decreased. After intervention with different doses of erianin, cell proliferation, clone number, and invasion were prominently decreased, apoptosis ratio was increased. Moreover, Nec‐1, CQ, and Z‐VAD had no effect on the cell viability induced by erianin, while the combination of ferroptosis inhibitors (deferoxamine mesylate, ferrostatin‐1, and liproxstatin‐1) and erianin prominently increased cell survival rate. Erianin pretreatment induced ferroptosis by enhancing reactive oxygen species, MDA, and Fe2+ levels, and reducing GSH levels. Erianin activated JAK2/STAT3 pathway and inhibited SLC7A11 and GPX4 expression, thereby inducing ferroptosis. Besides, tumor growth was significantly inhibited in the erianin‐treated mice, and there was no obvious toxicity in the mice. Erianin reduced proliferation and invasion of HCC cells by inducing ferroptosis by blocking the JAK2/STAT3/SLC7A11 pathway, thereby impeding tumor growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The newly discovered zoonotic coronavirus swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) causes acute diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and high mortality rates in newborn piglets. Although SADS-CoV uses different strategies to evade the host's innate immune system, the specific mechanism(s) by which it blocks the interferon (IFN) response remains unidentified. In this study, the potential of SADS-CoV nonstructural proteins (nsp) to inhibit the IFN response was detected. The results determined that nsp1 was a potent antagonist of IFN response. SADS-CoV nsp1 efficiently inhibited signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) phosphorylation by inducing Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) degradation. Subsequent research revealed that nsp1 induced JAK1 polyubiquitination through K11 and K48 linkages, leading to JAK1 degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Furthermore, SADS-CoV nsp1 induced CREBbinding protein degradation to inhibit IFN-stimulated gene production and STAT1 acetylation, thereby inhibiting STAT1 dephosphorylation and blocking STAT1 transport out of the nucleus to receive antiviral signaling. In summary, the results revealed the novel mechanisms by which SADS-CoV nsp1 blocks the JAK-STAT signaling pathway via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. This study yielded valuable findings on the specific mechanism of coronavirus nsp1 in inhibiting the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and the strategies of SADS-CoV in evading the host's innate immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic biliary autoimmune liver disease characterized by intrahepatic cholestasis. Swertia mussotii Franch. (SMF) is a Tibetan medicine with hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of SMF on PBC were investigated by bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experimental validation, with the aim of promoting the progress of SMF and PBC research. Methods: We first explored the therapeutic effects and key targets of SMF on PBC using a network pharmacology approach, further screened the core targets using the GSE79850 dataset, and finally validated the results using molecular docking techniques and in vitro experiments. Results: By bioinformatics analysis, we identified core targets of SMF for PBC treatment (STAT3, JAK2, TNF-α, and IL-1β) and important signaling pathways: JAK-STAT, TNF, and PI3K-AKT. The molecular docking results showed that the significant components of SMF had good binding properties to the core targets. In vitro experiments showed that SMF extracts improved the extent of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells and had a significant reversal effect on epithelial-mesenchymal transition process markers and potential targets in PBC. Conclusion: SMF may exert its therapeutic effects on PBC by acting on important targets such as STAT3, JAK2, TNF-α, IL-1β, Vimentin, and E-cadherin and the pathways in which they are involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic inflammation is one of the key mechanisms of depression. Wenyang-Tianjin-Jie Decoction (WTJD) is an effective antidepressant found in the course of diagnosis and treatment, but the mechanism of therapeutic effect is not clear. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of WTJD in the kidney yang deficiency (KYD) type of depression rats and reveal its mechanisms. Materials and Methods: We selected forty 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats for the study. We established a KYD [Phellodendron amurense Rupr (Huangbai) solution oral gavage and 4°C environments; 8 weeks] type of depression (chronic unpredictable mild stimulus; 6 weeks) rat model first. After successful modeling, we used WTJD or fluoxetine on rats for 3 weeks. Then we evaluated the depression and KYD behavior. Finally, we observed the expression of key inflammatory factors and proteins in peripheral blood and hippocampus, and further investigated the immune balance of Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 cells and the activity of their main regulatory pathways JAK2/STAT3 and TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB. Results: The imbalance of Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 cells in rats were related to KYD and depressive symptoms. Through this study, we found that WTJD can inhibit the activity of JAK2/STAT3 and TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathways, balance Th17/Treg and Th1/Th2 cell homeostasis, regulate the levels of inflammatory factors in the hippocampus and peripheral blood, and reverse KYD and depression. Conclusion: This study confirmed that WTJD had a reliable effect on depression rats with KYD, and its mechanism was to regulate the immune homeostasis of hippocampal T cells and related inflammatory factors to improve KYD and depression symptoms in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African swine fever (ASF) is an acute, hemorrhagic, and severe infectious disease caused by ASF virus (ASFV) infection. At present, there are still no safe and effective drugs and vaccines to prevent ASF. Mining the important proteins encoded by ASFV that affect the virulence and replication of ASFV is the key to developing effective vaccines and drugs. In this study, ASFV pH240R, a capsid protein of ASFV, was found to inhibit the type I interferon (IFN) signaling pathway. Mechanistically, pH240R interacted with IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 to disrupt the interaction of IFNAR1-TYK2 and IFNAR2-JAK1. Additionally, pH240R inhibited the phosphorylation of IFNAR1, TYK2, and JAK1 induced by IFN-a, resulting in the suppression of the nuclear import of STAT1 and STAT2 and the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Consistent with these results, H240R-deficient ASFV (ASFV-ΔH240R) infection induced more ISGs in porcine alveolar macrophages compared with its parental ASFV HLJ/18. We also found that pH240R enhanced viral replication via inhibition of ISGs expression. Taken together, our results clarify that pH240R enhances ASFV replication by inhibiting the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which highlights the possibility of pH240R as a potential drug target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type I and type II IFNs are important immune modulators in both innate and adaptive immunity. They transmit signaling by activating JAK-STAT pathways. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a class III NAD+-dependent deacetylase, has multiple functions in a variety of physiological processes. Here, we characterized the novel functions of SIRT1 in the regulation of type I and type II IFN-induced signaling. Overexpression of SIRT1 inhibited type I and type II IFN-induced interferon-stimulated response element activation. In contrast, knockout of SIRT1 promoted type I and type II IFN-induced expression of ISGs and inhibited viral replication. Treatment with SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 had similar positive effects. SIRT1 physically associated with STAT1 or STAT3, and this interaction was enhanced by IFN stimulation or viral infection. By deacetylating STAT1 at K673 and STAT3 at K679/K685/K707/K709, SIRT1 downregulated the phosphorylation of STAT1 (Y701) and STAT3 (Y705). Sirt1+/- primary peritoneal macrophages and Sirt1+/- mice exhibited enhanced IFN-induced signaling and antiviral activity. Thus, SIRT1 is a novel negative regulator of type I and type II IFN-induced signaling through its deacetylase activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cells are critical for replenishment of cells lost to death, damage or differentiation. Drosophila testes are a key model system for elucidating mechanisms regulating stem cell maintenance and differentiation. An intriguing gene identified through such studies is the transcription factor, chronologically inappropriate morphogenesis (Chinmo). Chinmo is a downstream effector of the Jak-STAT signaling pathway that acts in testis somatic stem cells to ensure maintenance of male stem cell fate and sexual identity. Defects in these processes can lead to infertility and the formation of germ cell tumors. While Chinmo's effect on testis stem cell behavior has been investigated in detail, there is still much to be learned about its structure, function, and interactions with other proteins. Using a two-hybrid screen, we find that Chinmo interacts with itself, the small ubiquitin-like modifier SUMO, the novel protein CG11180, and four other proteins (CG4318, Ova (ovaries absent), Taf3 (TBP-associated factor 3), and CG18269). Since both Chinmo and CG11180 contain sumoylation sites and SUMO-interacting motifs (SIMs), we analyzed their interaction in more detail. Using site-directed mutagenesis of a unique SIM in CG11180, we demonstrate that Chinmo's interaction with CG11180 is SUMO-dependent. Furthermore, to assess the functional relevance of both SUMO and CG11180, we performed RNAi-mediated knockdown of both proteins in somatic cells of the Drosophila testis. Using this approach, we find that CG11180 and SUMO are required in somatic cells of adult testes, and that reduction of either protein causes formation of germ cell tumors. Overall, our work suggests that SUMO may be involved in the interaction of Chinmo and CG11180 and that these genes are required in somatic cells of the adult Drosophila testis. Consistent with the CG11180 knockdown phenotype in male testes, and to underscore its connection to Chinmo, we propose the name Chigno (Childless Gambino) for CG11180. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with psoriasis. The Janus kinase (JAK) - activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway plays a key role in the pathogenesis of PsA. JAK inhibitors have potential therapeutic value because they block the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and reduce the production and release of various cytokines. Currently, a variety of JAK inhibitors have been developed, and prospective clinical trials have been completed with JAK inhibitors for PsA treatment. This article reviews the research progress of JAK inhibitors in the treatment of PsA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytidine/uridine monophosphate kinase 2 (UMP‐CMP kinase 2, CMPK2) has been reported as an antiviral interferon‐stimulated gene (ISG). We previously observed that the expression of CMPK2 was significantly upregulated after Zika Virus (ZIKV) infection in A549 cells. However, the association and the underlying mechanisms between CMPK2 induction and ZIKV replication remain to be determined. We investigated the induction of CMPK2 during ZIKV infection and the effect of CMPK2 on ZIKV replication in A549, U251, Vero, IFNAR‐deficient U5A and its parental 2fTGH cells, Huh7 and its RIG‐I‐deficient derivatives Huh7.5.1 cells. The activation status of Jak‐STAT signaling pathway was determined by detecting the phosphorylation level of STAT1, the activity of interferon stimulated response element (ISRE) and the expression of several interferon stimulated genes (ISGs). We found that ZIKV infection induced CMPK2 expression through an IFNAR and RIG‐I dependent manner. Overexpression of CMPK2 inhibited while CMPK2 knockdown promoted ZIKV replication in A549 and U251 cells. Mechanically, we found that CMPK2 overexpression increased IFNβ expression and activated Jak/STAT signaling pathway as shown by the increased level of p‐STAT1, enhanced activity of ISRE, and the upregulated expression of downstream ISGs. These findings suggest that ZIKV infection induced CMPK2 expression, which inhibited ZIKV replication and serves as a positive feedback regulator for IFN‐Jak/STAT pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delved at how the natural substance dieckol (DCL) prevents prostate cancerous cells from proliferating and migrating by blocking the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in PC‐3 cells. For numerous tests, the cells were treated to DCL at a range of concentrations (0–20 μM) for 24 h. DCL mediated cytotoxicity was analyzed by MTT assay. To evaluate ROS, DCFH‐DA staining was employed. Dual (AO/EtBr) staining was utilized to examine apoptotic changes, and MMP levels in PC‐3 cells were examined using the appropriate fluorescent staining assays. By using flow cytometry and western blotting, the protein expressions of cell survival, cell cycle, proliferation, and apoptosis were assessed. The results showed that DCL significantly cytotoxically affects PC‐3, and the IC50 was discovered to be 12 μM for 24 h exposure. Furthermore, after DCL treatment in PC‐3, considerable ROS generation and increased apoptotic signals were detected. STAT3, JAK1, PCNA, and cyclins D1 and E1 are all suppressed by DCL in PC‐3. In addition, DCL therapy in PC‐3 dramatically increased pro‐apoptotic proteins such Bax, caspase‐3, and cytochrome C. Therefore, DCL has been regarded as a chemotherapeutic agent because to its ability to decrease the expression of proteins that control cell proliferation, including STAT3, JAK1, PCNA, and cyclins D1 and E1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) have been extensively detected in the atmospheric environment and implicated as a prominent threat to atherosclerosis, a chronic vascular inflammatory disease. Due to globalization and economic development, the dramatic shift in diet from traditional to high‐fat dietary patterns aggravated atherosclerosis progression induced by environmental factors. However, limited knowledge is available regarding vascular risks and underlying mechanisms of airborne MNPs in high‐risk populations with high‐fat dietary habits. Herein, we demonstrated that MNPs exerted a proatherogenic effect under high‐fat dietary patterns, leading to aortic wall thickening, elastic fiber disorganization, macrophage infiltration, and local inflammation. Based on the correlation analysis between MNPs and PM group, we identified that MNPs might be a key PM component in atherogenic toxicity. MNPs exposure disturbed the dynamic process of lipid metabolism, manifested as aortic lipid accumulation, dyslipidemia, and hepatic lipid metabolism disorder, which was modulated by the JAK–STAT pathway. Overall, these findings provide new insight into understanding the cardiovascular risks and mechanisms of MNPs among high‐risk populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: M1 macrophages (Mφs) are involved in osteogenic differentiation of ligamentum flavum (LF) cells and play an important role in heterotopic ossification. However, the mechanism by which M1 Mφs influence osteogenic differentiation of LF cells has not been studied. Methods: The effect of conditioned medium including secretions of M1 Mφs (CM‐M1) on LF cells was analyzed by GeneChip profiling and ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). THP‐1 cells were polarized into M1 Mφs and CM‐M1 was used to induce LF cells. In addition, LF cells were induced by CM‐M1 in the presence of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) inhibitors or oncostatin M (OSM)‐neutralizing antibodies. Based on the presence of OSM, knockout of OSMR or GP130 receptors, or addition of the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) inhibitor AZD1480 or signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) inhibitor Stattic were examined for effects on osteogenic differentiation of LF cells. OSM secretion was quantified by ELISA, while qPCR and western blot were used to evaluate expression of osteogenic genes and receptor and signaling pathway‐related proteins, respectively. Results: GeneChip and IPA results indicate that the OSM signaling pathway and its downstream signaling molecules JAK2 and STAT3 are significantly activated. ELISA results indicate that OSM is highly expressed in cells treated with CM‐M1 and lowly expressed in cells treated with CM‐M1 and a COX‐2 inhibitor. Besides, CM‐M1 induces osteogenic differentiation of LF cells, which is weakened when COX‐2 inhibitors or OSM‐neutralizing antibody are added to it. Recombinant OSM could induce osteogenic differentiation of LF cells and upregulate expression of OSMR, GP130, phosphorylated (P)‐JAK2, and P‐STAT3. Upon knockdown of OSMR or GP130, or the addition of AZD1480 or Stattic, P‐JAK2 and P‐STAT3 expression were decreased and osteogenic differentiation was reduced. Conclusion: M1 Mφ‐derived OSM induces osteogenic differentiation of LF cells and the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway plays an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: SLC25A17, a peroxisomal solute carrier, has been implicated in various physiological and pathological processes. However, its precise roles and underlying mechanisms in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remain incompletely understood. Methods: The expression and survival data of breast cancer were derived from TCGA and GEO databases. A variety of in vitro assays were conducted, including proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, and invasion. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. The levels of autophagy were assessed by mRFP-GFP-LC3 confocal microscopy scanning, western blotting, and electron microscopy. Results: SLC25A17 was highly expressed in breast cancer tissues, which was found to be associated with unfavorable prognosis. Functional assays demonstrated that SLC25A17 knockdown suppressed proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, and invasion. Moreover, it prompted apoptosis and autophagy. On the other hand, SLC25A17 knockdown promoted autophagy through triggering ROS accumulation, which was counteracted by N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC). Furthermore, the pro-apoptotic effect of SLC25A17 knockdown was reversed when treated with autophagy inhibitor 3-MA in TNBC cells, suggesting that SLC25A17 knockdown-induced autophagic cell death. Mechanistically, SLC25A17 performed its function through regulation JAK2/STAT3 signaling in TNBC. In a nude mice xenograft study, SLC25A17 knockdown markedly decreased breast tumor growth and metastasis. Conclusion: SLC25A17 up-regulation may be a critical factor driving TNBC progression by modulating ROS production and autophagy. Consequently, targeting SLC25A17 could be an effective therapeutic strategy against TNBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While genome-wide studies have identified genomic loci in hosts associated with life-threatening Covid-19 (critical Covid-19), the challenge of resolving these loci hinders further identification of clinically actionable targets and drugs. Building upon our previous success, we here present a priority index solution designed to address this challenge, generating the target and drug resource that consists of two indexes: the target index and the drug index. The primary purpose of the target index is to identify clinically actionable targets by prioritising genes associated with Covid-19. We illustrate the validity of the target index by demonstrating its ability to identify pre-existing Covid-19 phase-III drug targets, with the majority of these targets being found at the leading prioritisation (leading targets). These leading targets have their evolutionary origins in Amniota ('four-leg vertebrates') and are predominantly involved in cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions and JAK-STAT signaling. The drug index highlights opportunities for repurposing clinically approved JAK-STAT inhibitors, either individually or in combination. This proposed strategic focus on the JAK-STAT pathway is supported by the active pursuit of therapeutic agents targeting this pathway in ongoing phase-II/III clinical trials for Covid-19. A priority index solution to critical Covid-19 comprises both the target index and the drug index, serving as dual indexes to accelerate translational medicine for host genetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]