Integrative Molecular Phenotyping
INTEGRATIVE MOLECULAR
PHENOTYPING
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL
BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
WHEELOCK LABORATORY

PubMed

Universal, untargeted detection of bacteria in tissues using metabolomics workflows

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Nat Commun. 2025 Jan 2;16(1):165. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-55457-7.ABSTRACTFast and reliable identification of bacteria directly in clinical samples is a critical factor in clinical microbiological diagnostics. Current approaches require time-consuming bacterial isolation and enrichment procedures, delaying stratified treatment. Here, we describe a biomarker-based strategy that utilises bacterial small molecular metabolites and lipids for direct detection of bacteria in complex samples using mass spectrometry (MS). A spectral metabolic library of 233 bacterial species is mined for markers showing specificity at different phylogenetic levels. Using a univariate statistical analysis method, we determine 359 so-called taxon-specific markers (TSMs). We apply these TSMs to the in situ detection of bacteria using healthy and cancerous gastrointestinal tissues as well as faecal samples. To demonstrate the MS method-agnostic nature, samples are analysed using spatial metabolomics and traditional bulk-based metabolomics approaches. In this work, TSMs are found in >90% of samples, suggesting the general applicability of this workflow to detect bacterial presence with standard MS-based analytical methods.PMID:39747039 | DOI:10.1038/s41467-024-55457-7

E4F1 coordinates pyruvate metabolism and the activity of the elongator complex to ensure translation fidelity during brain development

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Nat Commun. 2025 Jan 2;16(1):67. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-55444-y.ABSTRACTPyruvate metabolism defects lead to severe neuropathies such as the Leigh syndrome (LS) but the molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal cell death remain poorly understood. Here, we unravel a connection between pyruvate metabolism and the regulation of the epitranscriptome that plays an essential role during brain development. Using genetically engineered mouse model and primary neuronal cells, we identify the transcription factor E4F1 as a key coordinator of AcetylCoenzyme A (AcCoA) production by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) and its utilization as an essential co-factor by the Elongator complex to acetylate tRNAs at the wobble position uridine 34 (U34). E4F1-mediated direct transcriptional regulation of Dlat and Elp3, two genes encoding key subunits of the PDC and of the Elongator complex, respectively, ensures proper translation fidelity and cell survival in the central nervous system (CNS) during mouse embryonic development. Furthermore, analysis of PDH-deficient cells highlight a crosstalk linking the PDC to ELP3 expression that is perturbed in LS patients.PMID:39747033 | DOI:10.1038/s41467-024-55444-y

Genome-wide characterization of 54 urinary metabolites reveals molecular impact of kidney function

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Nat Commun. 2025 Jan 2;16(1):325. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-55182-1.ABSTRACTDissecting the genetic mechanisms underlying urinary metabolite concentrations can provide molecular insights into kidney function and open possibilities for causal assessment of urinary metabolites with risk factors and disease outcomes. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics provides a high-throughput means for urinary metabolite profiling, as widely applied for blood biomarker studies. Here we report a genome-wide association study meta-analysed for 3 European cohorts comprising 8,011 individuals, covering both people with type 1 diabetes and general population settings. We identify 54 associations (p < 9.3 × 10-10) for 19 of 54 studied metabolite concentrations. Out of these, 33 were not reported previously for relevant urinary or blood metabolite traits. Subsequent two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis suggests that estimated glomerular filtration rate causally affects 13 urinary metabolite concentrations whereas urinary ethanolamine, an initial precursor for phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine, was associated with higher eGFR lending support for a potential protective role. Our study provides a catalogue of genetic associations for 53 metabolites, enabling further investigation on how urinary metabolites are linked to human health.PMID:39746953 | DOI:10.1038/s41467-024-55182-1

Pantothenate kinase 4 controls skeletal muscle substrate metabolism

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Nat Commun. 2025 Jan 2;16(1):345. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-55036-w.ABSTRACTMetabolic flexibility in skeletal muscle is essential for maintaining healthy glucose and lipid metabolism, and its dysfunction is closely linked to metabolic diseases. Exercise enhances metabolic flexibility, making it an important tool for discovering mechanisms that promote metabolic health. Here we show that pantothenate kinase 4 (PanK4) is a new conserved exercise target with high abundance in muscle. Muscle-specific deletion of PanK4 impairs fatty acid oxidation which is related to higher intramuscular acetyl-CoA and malonyl-CoA levels. Elevated acetyl-CoA levels persist regardless of feeding state and are associated with whole-body glucose intolerance, reduced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in glycolytic muscle, and impaired glucose uptake during exercise. Conversely, increasing PanK4 levels in glycolytic muscle lowers acetyl-CoA and enhances glucose uptake. Our findings highlight PanK4 as an important regulator of acetyl-CoA levels, playing a key role in both muscle lipid and glucose metabolism.PMID:39746949 | DOI:10.1038/s41467-024-55036-w

Discrimination of Healthy and Botrytis cinerea-Infected Grapes Using Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis with Direct Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Agric Food Chem. 2025 Jan 2. doi: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c08612. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTBotrytis cinerea infections of grapes significantly reduce yield and quality and increase phenolic compound oxidation, resulting in color loss, off-flavors, and odors in wine. In this study, metabolites were extracted from grape homogenates comprising healthy or infected grapes from different vintages, cultivars, regions, and maturity stages. Samples were randomly analyzed by direct injection into an ion trap mass spectrometer, with data collected from 50 to 2000 m/z for 1 min. Molecular feature abundances from 0.1 to 0.4 min were normalized prior to Principal Components Analysis assessment of workflow. Samples were randomly assigned to a calibration and independent test sample set, with feature reduction, a two-class model Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis, cross-validation, and permutation testing performed with the calibration data set. Prediction of sample class in the independent test samples demonstrated an overall predictive error of less than 5%. Feature importance was assessed using a combined variable importance in projection and selectivity ratio plot. Annotation of important molecular features using a high-resolution LC-QTOF mass spectrometry MS/MS of selected samples enabled key metabolites palmitic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids, succinate, and epicatechin to be identified and associated with infection. The proposed workflow establishes sensitive high-throughput rapid MS-based methods for phytosanitary testing of grape and fruit samples.PMID:39746708 | DOI:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c08612

Effects of muscle fatigue on urine metabolites in automobile manufacturing workers based on untargeted metabolomics

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Zhonghua Lao Dong Wei Sheng Zhi Ye Bing Za Zhi. 2024 Dec 20;42(12):911-917. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20240422-00180.ABSTRACTObjective: To investigate the changes of metabolites in urine of automobile manufacturing workers with muscle fatigue using metabolomics technology, and to explore potential biomarkers and disrupted metabolic pathways. Methods: In July 2022, urine samples were collected from 35 male workers in a certain automobile manufacturing industry before and after muscle fatigue, and metabolite analysis was conducted. Subsequently, multivariate statistical analysis was used for data processing to screen differential metabolites. Metabolic pathway enrichment was performed using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database (http: //www.kegg.jp), and potential biomarkers were screened through the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: Metabolomics analysis revealed that compared to pre-fatigue samples, a total of 363 differential metabolites were identified in the post-fatigue urine samples of the subjects. Among these, 201 metabolites (55.4%) showed increased relative expression, while 162 metabolites (44.6%) showed decreased relative expression. The metabolic pathways involved mainly included histidine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, caffeine metabolism, niacin and nicotinamide metabolism, and oxidative phosphorylation. The ROC curve analysis results showed that the areas under the ROC curves for 1-methylnicotinamide, 2-piperidinone, kojic acid and diferuloyl Putrescine were 0.992, 0.959, 0.937 and 0.902, respectively. Conclusion: Muscle fatigue could cause changes in urine metabolite profiles of automobile manufacturing workers. The metabolites represented by 1-methylnicotinamide in urine can be used as potential biomarkers of muscle fatigue in automobile manufacturing workers.PMID:39746681 | DOI:10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20240422-00180

Deficiency of the mitochondrial transporter SLC25A47 minimally impacts hepatic lipid metabolism in fasted and diet-induced obese mice

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Mol Metab. 2024 Dec 31:102092. doi: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.102092. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTThe peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPARα) plays a central role in lipid metabolism in the liver by stimulating the expression of hundreds of genes. Accordingly, regulation by PPARα could be a screening tool to identify novel genes involved in hepatic lipid metabolism. Previously, the mitochondrial transporter SLC25A47 was suggested to play a role in energy metabolism and liver-specific uncoupling, but further research is lacking. Here, we identify SLC25A47 as a PPARα-regulated and fasting-induced gene in human and mouse hepatocytes. We explored the potential role of SLC25A47 using mice overexpressing and lacking SLC25A47. Adenoviral-mediated overexpression of SLC25A47 minimally impacted metabolic parameters during fasting and high-fat feeding. During high-fat feeding, SLC25A47 ablation also did not influence any metabolic parameters, apart from a minor improvement in glucose tolerance. In fasted mice, SLC25A47 ablation was associated with modest, reproducible, and likely indirect reductions in plasma triglycerides and glycerol. SLC25A47 ablation did not influence energy expenditure. Depending on the nutritional status, metabolomics showed modest alterations in plasma, liver, and hepatic mitochondrial levels of various metabolites related to amino acid metabolism, TCA cycle, and fatty acid metabolism. No major and consistent alterations in levels of specific metabolites were found that establish the substrate for and function of SLC25A47. Collectively, our results hint at a role of SLC25A47 in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism, yet suggest that SLC25A47 is dispensable for hepatic lipid homeostasis during fasting and high-fat feeding.PMID:39746607 | DOI:10.1016/j.molmet.2024.102092

Intrahepatic levels of microbiome-derived hippurate associates with improved metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Mol Metab. 2024 Dec 31:102090. doi: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.102090. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is characterised by lipid accumulation in the liver and is often associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. The gut microbiome recently emerged as a significant player of liver metabolism and health through the production of bioactive compounds that are beneficial for its host - "postbiotics". Circulating hippurate, a host-microbial co-metabolite produced by conjugating microbial benzoate with glycine in the host-liver, is associated with human gut microbial gene richness and with metabolic health. Here, we first report significant associations among MASLD/MASH traits, plasma and hepatic hippurate in 318 individuals with obesity. Further analysis of the 318 patient's hepatic transcriptome showed that liver and plasma hippurate are inversely associated with MASLD, implicating lipid metabolism and regulation of inflammatory responses pathways. These observations strongly point towards a direct mechanistic role of hepatic hippurate in MASLD pathophysiology. To test a potential beneficial role for hippurate in hepatic insulin resistance, we profiled the metabolome of immortalised human hepatocytes (IHH) using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), and characterised intracellular triglyceride accumulation and glucose internalisation after a 24h insulin exposure. Hippurate treatment inhibited lipid accumulation and rescued insulin resistance induced by 24-hour chronic insulin in IHH. Hippurate also improved hepatocyte metabolic profiles by increasing the abundance of metabolites involved in energy homeostasis (that are depleted by chronic insulin treatment) while decreasing those involved in inflammation. Altogether, our results further highlight hippurate as a mechanistic marker of metabolic health, by its ability to improve metabolic homeostasis as a postbiotic candidate.PMID:39746606 | DOI:10.1016/j.molmet.2024.102090

Systems Biology of Dry Eye: Unraveling Molecular Mechanisms through Multi-Omics Integration

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Ocul Surf. 2024 Dec 31:S1542-0124(24)00145-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.12.010. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTDry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial condition with complex and incompletely understood molecular mechanisms. Advances in multi-omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, have provided new insights into the pathophysiology of DED. Genomic analyses have identified key genetic variants linked to immune regulation and lacrimal gland function. Transcriptomic studies reveal upregulated inflammatory pathways in ocular surface tissues, implicating these as core drivers of chronic inflammation. Proteomic research highlights significant alterations in tear protein composition, especially proteins involved in inflammation and tissue repair. Metabolomics studies focus on disrupted lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, which are crucial in maintaining tear film stability. Furthermore, microbiome research has demonstrated reduced microbial diversity and increased pathogenic bacteria, exacerbating inflammatory responses. The integration of multi-omics data allows for the identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets, enabling precision diagnostics and personalized treatments. Therefore, this review highlights the critical importance of multi-omics approaches in deepening our understanding of DED's complex molecular mechanisms and their potential to transform clinical management and therapeutic innovations in this challenging field.PMID:39746576 | DOI:10.1016/j.jtos.2024.12.010

Multi-omic Approaches for Endotype Discovery in Allergy/Immunology

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2024 Dec 31:S0091-6749(24)02473-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2024.12.1083. Online ahead of print.NO ABSTRACTPMID:39746555 | DOI:10.1016/j.jaci.2024.12.1083

Exploration of advanced omics tools and resources for the improvement of industrial oil crops

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Plant Sci. 2024 Dec 31:112367. doi: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112367. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTThe rapid advancement in the field of omics approaches plays a crucial role in the development of improved industrial oil crops. Industrial oil crops play a crucial role across sectors like food processing, biofuels, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, making them indispensable contributors to global economies and these crops serve as vital elements in a multitude of industrial processes. Significant improvements in genomics have revolutionized the agricultural sector, particularly in the realm of oil crops. Cutting-edge advancements have facilitated the efficient sequencing of genomes for key commercial oil crops. This breakthrough not only enhances our understanding of the genetic makeup of these crops but also empowers breeders with invaluable insights for targeted genetic manipulation and breeding programs. Moreover, integrating transcriptomics with genomic data has assisted in a new era of precision agriculture. This approach provides an in-depth understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in traits of interest, such as oil content, yield potential, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Proteomics methods are instrumental in deciphering the intricacies of protein structure, interactions, and function, while metabolomics and ionomics shed light on the intricate network of metabolites and ions within biological systems. Each omics discipline offers unique insights, and their integration holds the promise of enriching our understanding and furnishing invaluable insights for enhancing oil crops. This review delves into the efficacy and constraints of various omics approaches in the context of refining industrial oil crops. Moreover, it underscores the importance of multi-omics strategies and explores their convergence with genetic engineering techniques to cultivate superior oil crop varieties.PMID:39746452 | DOI:10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112367

Integrated bioinformatics and multi-omics to investigate the mechanism of Rhododendron molle Flos-induced hepatotoxicity

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Ethnopharmacol. 2024 Dec 31:119308. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.119308. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an important and common adverse drug event. Rhododendron molle Flos (RMF), as one of toxic Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), holds a prominent position in clinical practice for treating rheumatoid arthritis. However, the toxicity of RMF limits its safe. Most of the concerns are about its rapid neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity, with less attention paid to its hepatotoxicity, and the mechanism of which is still unclear.AIM OF THE STUDY: To reveal the mechanism of RMF-induced hepatotoxicity by bioinformatics and multi-omics.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rats were intragastric administered RMF at doses of 0.8 g/kg, 0.4 g/kg, and 0.2 g/kg once daily for 2 weeks. Initially, hepatotoxicity was then evaluated using liver function enzymes, antioxidant enzymes, and histopathology. Subsequently, network toxicology, transcriptomics, and metabolomics were used to identify the genes and metabolites. In addition, molecular docking and Western blot were employed to verify toxic components and key targets.RESULTS: RMF caused abnormal levels of ALT, γ-GT, TBIL, and TBA in the serum of rats, as well as abnormal levels of MDA, GSH-Px, and SOD in the liver, leading to inflammatory infiltration of liver cells, with a dose-dependent manner. RMF disordered the steroid hormone biosynthesis, pyruvate metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and arachidonic acid metabolism. Six key targets were identified- UGT1A6, CYP2E1, ACOT1, ACSL5, CTH, and PKLR, along with their corresponding metabolites, namely 17β-estradiol, estriol, arachidonic acid, octadecanoic acid, and pyruvic acid. The hepatotoxicity could be attributed to five diterpenoid components, including grayanotoxin-III, rhodojaponin (RJ)-I, RJ-II, RJ-III, and RJ-V.CONCLUSIONS: This study comprehensively identified the toxic components, upstream targets, and downstream metabolites of RMF-induced liver toxicity, providing a basis for evaluating and monitoring liver function in patients during clinical application.PMID:39746411 | DOI:10.1016/j.jep.2024.119308

Serum pharmacochemistry combined with network pharmacology reveals the hepatotoxicity mechanism of Alangium chinense (Lour.) Harms

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Ethnopharmacol. 2024 Dec 31:119312. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.119312. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Alangium chinense (Lour.) Harms, commonly known as A. chinense, is a member of the Alangiaceae family. This plant is traditionally utilized by the Miao nationality of Guizhou as a medicinal remedy for rheumatic discomfort, employing a method that targets and eliminates toxins. Research has demonstrated its efficacy in dispelling wind, reducing dampness, breaking up blood stagnation, and alleviating pain. Nonetheless, there have been indications that A. chinense may possess toxic properties; however, the exact mechanism underlying its toxicity remains not fully understood.AIM OF THE STUDY: Employing an integrated strategy that combines serum metabolomics and network pharmacology, this work intends to elucidate the toxic elements and comprehensively explore the fundamental processes of toxicity connected to A. chinense.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rats were divided into thirteen groups, including normal control group and low-medium-high dose groups of water extract and ethanol extract of fibrous root and root, over 14 consecutive days. Toxic effects were evaluated through serum biochemistry and pathohistological examinations. Serum metabolomics were analyzed using UPLC-MS/MS to identify the main blood-absorbed constituents of A. chinense. Additionally, hepatotoxicity-related targets were compiled from OMIM, CTD, GeneCards, and DisGeNET databases alongside primary blood-absorbed component targets sourced from TCMSP and Swiss Target Prediction databases. We elucidated the toxic mechanism of A. chinense through compound-target and target-pathway networks. Finally, we verified the mechanism of A. chinense-induced hepatotoxicity in rats by molecular docking, qRT-PCR , western blotting and in vitro experiments .RESULTS: In vivo experiments revealed that A. chinense increased the levels of AST and ALT in serum. The sectioning results indicated that different medicinal parts and different extracts of A. chinense caused varying degrees of liver damage in a dose-dependent manner, with the water extract of fibrous root resulting in the greatest damage. The UPLC-MS/MS analysis revealed 75 blood-absorbed components in A. chinense, with 18 significantly linked to liver injury factors, such as Anabasine, Brucine, Tricin, and quercetin-3,4'-dimethyl ether. Additionally, network pharmacology revealed 123 potential targets associated with A. chinense-induced hepatotoxicity. KEGG pathway analysis revealed 247 signaling pathways associated with these common targets, emphasizing key pathways such as the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, lipid and atherosclerosis signaling pathway, and chemical carcinogenesis-receptor activation signaling pathway. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that Mansonone D, Sudachitin, Mansonone E, Tricin, Brucine, and (-)-Anabasine exhibit strong affinity and low binding energy with PIK3CA, AKT1, mTOR, MAP2K1, and MAPK1 among the identified blood-absorbed ingredients. In addition, qRT-PCR combined with Western blotting analysis showed that compared with the control group, A. chinense water extract significantly increased the mRNA expression of PIK3CA, AKT1, mTOR, MAP2K1, MAPK1 and rheb in rat liver tissue. Abnormal activation of pmTOR/mTOR, pPI3K/PI3K, pAKT/AKT protein expression levels and the enzyme activity levels of caspase3/7 and caspase1, thereby activating PI3K/ALT/mTOR pathway to play hepatotoxic role through autophagy or apoptosis. This suggests an intensive activation of this specific biochemical transformation channel. Finally, the in vitro experiment showed that Anabasine, the alkaloids of fibrous root and root could significantly increase AST and ALT levels in mouse AML-12 cells.CONCLUSIONS: Through network pharmacology and serum metabolomics analysis, we investigated the possible mechanism of A. chinense's hepatotoxicity and confirmed that A. chinense may be caused by abnormal activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. This study elucidates the potential mechanism of A. chinense-related hepatotoxicity, provides a theoretical basis for in-depth exploration of its toxicity mechanism and mitigation strategies, and provides valuable insights and scientific support for understanding the intrinsic toxicity mechanism of ethnomedicine from a holistic perspective.PMID:39746409 | DOI:10.1016/j.jep.2024.119312

Liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry reveals the inhibitory effects of Huangkuisiwu formula on biosynthesis of protein-binding uremic toxins in rats with chronic kidney disease

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci. 2024 Dec 28;1252:124445. doi: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2024.124445. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTChronic kidney disease (CKD) is recognized as a common disorder worldwide. Protein-binding uremic toxins that cannot be efficiently removed by extracorporeal renal replacement therapies, such as indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (PCS), are associated with high risks of cardiovascular complications and high mortality in CKD population. This study aimed to explore the therapeutical effects of Huangkuisiwu formula (HKSWF) on CKD rats. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms of HKSWF to inhibit the biosynthesis of IS and PCS were studied. Untargeted metabolomics based on UHPLC-QTOF/MS was conducted to analyze the alterations of endogenous metabolites in plasma. Levels of IS and PCS in plasma and peripheral tissues, as well as levels of amino acids in colonic contents were analyzed by UHPLC-TQ/MS. Levels of indole and p-cresol, the precursors of IS and PCS, in feces and colonic contents were quantified by HPLC-FLD. mRNA and protein expression of sulfotransferase 1 a1 (SULT1A1) were determined by qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. The ability of colonic microbiota to metabolize amino acids into precursors, as well as the activity of sulfotransferase to catalyze precursors into uremic toxins were evaluated by detecting corresponding products from specific substrates. 16S rRNA sequencing were conducted to analyze the profile of gut microbiota. The results showed that HKSWF significantly alleviated the structural and functional impairment of kidney, as well as improved the global metabolic disorders in CKD rats. IS and PCS were identified as the key differential metabolites that contributed to the effects of HKSWF. HKSWF significantly reduced the levels of IS and PCS in plasma, kidney, liver and heart of CKD rats. HKSWF showed no significant effects on the expression of SULT1A1 or the activity of sulfotransferase. HKSWF significantly decreased the levels of indole and p-cresol in the colonic contents and feces of CKD rats, by inhibiting the ability of colonic microbiota to metabolize tryptophan and tyrosine into indole and p-cresol. Alterations in the profile of amino acids and gut microbiota in CKD rats were significantly improved by HKSWF treatment. Conclusively, HKSWF inhibited gut-microbiota mediated biosynthesis of indole and p-cresol, to alleviate the accumulation of IS and PCS in CKD rats.PMID:39746293 | DOI:10.1016/j.jchromb.2024.124445

Proposing Bromo-epi-androsterone (BEA) for perioperative neurocognitive disorders with Interleukin-6 as a druggable target

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Clin Anesth. 2025 Jan 1;101:111736. doi: 10.1016/j.jclinane.2024.111736. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTCognitive impairment following surgery is a significant complication, affecting multiple neurocognitive domains. The term "perioperative neurocognitive disorders" (PND) is recommended to encompass this entity. Individuals who develop PND are typically older and have increases in serum and brain pro-inflammatory cytokines notwithstanding the type of surgery undergone. Surgical trauma induces production of small biomolecules, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMP), particularly the DAMP known as high molecular group box 1 protein (HMGB1). Mechanistically, peripheral surgical trauma promotes pro-inflammatory cytokines that stimulate central nervous system (CNS) inflammation by disrupting the blood-brain barrier (BBB) causing functional neuronal disruption that leads to PND. PND is strongly linked to elevations in serum and CNS pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα); these cytokines cause further release of HMGB1 creating a positive feedback loop that amplifies the inflammatory response. The cytokine IL-6 is necessary and sufficient for PND. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a principal component of the steroid metabolome and is involved in immune homeostasis. DHEA has been shown to suppress expression of several pro-inflammatory cytokines by regulation of the NF-kB pathway. Bromo-epi-androsterone (BEA) is a potent synthetic analog of DHEA; unlike DHEA, it is non-androgenic, non-anabolic and is an effective modulator of immune dysregulation. In a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, BEA effected significant and sustained decreases in IL-1β, TNFα and IL-6. This article presents BEA as a potential candidate for clinical trials targeting PND and further suggests the use of BEA in elective total hip arthroplasty as a well-documented surgical entity relevant to the management of PND.PMID:39746239 | DOI:10.1016/j.jclinane.2024.111736

Proteomic and Metabolomic Signatures in Prediabetes Progressing to Diabetes or Reversing to Normoglycemia Within 1 Year

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Diabetes Care. 2025 Jan 2:dc241412. doi: 10.2337/dc24-1412. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTOBJECTIVE: Progression of prediabetes to type 2 diabetes has been associated with β-cell dysfunction, whereas its remission to normoglycemia has been related to improvement of insulin sensitivity. To understand the mechanisms and identify potential biomarkers related to prediabetes trajectories, we compared the proteomics and metabolomics profile of people with prediabetes progressing to diabetes or reversing to normoglycemia within 1 year.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: The fasting plasma concentrations of 1,389 proteins and the fasting, 30-min, and 120-min post-oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) plasma concentrations of 152 metabolites were measured in up to 134 individuals with new-onset diabetes, prediabetes, or normal glucose tolerance. For 108 participants, the analysis was repeated with samples from 1 year before, when all had prediabetes.RESULTS: The plasma concentrations of 14 proteins were higher in diabetes compared with normoglycemia in a population with prediabetes 1 year before, and they correlated with indices of insulin sensitivity. Higher levels of dicarbonyl/L-xylulose reductase and glutathione S-transferase A3 in the prediabetic state were associated with an increased risk of diabetes 1 year later. Pathway analysis pointed toward differences in immune response between diabetes and normoglycemia that were already recognizable in the prediabetic state 1 year prior at baseline. The area under the curve during OGTT of the concentrations of IDL particles, IDL apolipoprotein B, and IDL cholesterol was higher in new-onset diabetes compared with normoglycemia. The concentration of glutamate increased in prediabetes progressing to diabetes.CONCLUSIONS: We identify new candidates associated with the progression of prediabetes to diabetes or its remission to normoglycemia. Pathways regulating the immune response are related to prediabetes trajectories.PMID:39746149 | DOI:10.2337/dc24-1412

Magnesium modulates phospholipid metabolism to promote bacterial phenotypic resistance to antibiotics

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Elife. 2025 Jan 2;13:RP100427. doi: 10.7554/eLife.100427.ABSTRACTNon-inheritable antibiotic or phenotypic resistance ensures bacterial survival during antibiotic treatment. However, exogenous factors promoting phenotypic resistance are poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that Vibrio alginolyticus are recalcitrant to killing by a broad spectrum of antibiotics under high magnesium. Functional metabolomics demonstrated that magnesium modulates fatty acid biosynthesis by increasing saturated fatty acid biosynthesis while decreasing unsaturated fatty acid production. Exogenous supplementation of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids increased and decreased bacterial susceptibility to antibiotics, respectively, confirming the role of fatty acids in antibiotic resistance. Functional lipidomics revealed that glycerophospholipid metabolism is the major metabolic pathway remodeled by magnesium, where phosphatidylethanolamine biosynthesis is reduced and phosphatidylglycerol production is increased. This process alters membrane composition, increasing membrane polarization, and decreasing permeability and fluidity, thereby reducing antibiotic uptake by V. alginolyticus. These findings suggest the presence of a previously unrecognized metabolic mechanism by which bacteria escape antibiotic killing through the use of an environmental factor.PMID:39745871 | DOI:10.7554/eLife.100427

Diterpene chemical space of Aeollanthus buchnerianus Briq. aerial part

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Nat Prod Bioprospect. 2025 Jan 2;15(1):6. doi: 10.1007/s13659-024-00491-7.ABSTRACTThe Plectranthinae clade, which includes genera such as Plectranthus, Ocimum, and Aeollanthus, is well known for its diverse array of diterpenoids. While numerous studies have deepened the understanding of diterpene diversity across the clade, Aeollanthus species remain underexplored, with only two studies focusing on their diterpene profiles. The NMR-based chemical profiling of the EtOAc leaf extract of the rocky and succulent species Aeollanthus buchnerianus Briq. reveals a range of diterpenes with isopimarane and abietane skeletons including several previously unreported analogues. Interestingly, the isolated compounds provided insights into the breakdown patterns of both diterpene classes by examining the product ions in their MS2 spectra. These data offer valuable information for evaluating the taxonomic position of this species in relation to other species within the clade.PMID:39745518 | DOI:10.1007/s13659-024-00491-7

Dietary Methionine Restriction Alleviates Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer's Disease Mice via Sex-Dependent Modulation on Gut Microbiota and Tryptophan Metabolism: A Multiomics Analysis

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
J Agric Food Chem. 2025 Jan 2. doi: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c09878. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTPlant-based foods with low methionine contents have gained increasing interest for their potential health benefits, including neuroprotective effects. Methionine restriction (MR) linked to a plant-based diet has been shown to mitigate neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) through mechanisms that involve the gut microbiota. In this study, a 16-week MR diet (0.17% methionine, w/w) improved working memory and reduced neuronal damage exclusively in 4-month-old male APP/PS1 AD mice. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the activation of serum- and glucose-corticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) pathways. Furthermore, metabolomics demonstrated increased serum indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) levels and an enhanced expression of gut barrier proteins Claudin-1 and MUC2 in male mice. MR significantly altered the gut microbiota composition, notably increasing indole-producing bacteria such as Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri). Multiomics integration linked L. reuteri, IPA, and PPARα signaling to improved cognitive outcomes. Molecular docking and RT-qPCR analyses confirmed IPA's interaction with PPARα, leading to the activation of neuroprotective targets (Bdnf, Pparα, Acsbg1, Scd2, and Scd3). These results highlight the role of methionine restriction in modulating gut microbiota and metabolites, offering a promising dietary approach to managing neurodegenerative diseases with sex-specific effects.PMID:39745486 | DOI:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c09878

Short-term effects of follicle stimulating hormone on immune function, lipid, and vitamin metabolism in transiently castrated men

Thu, 02/01/2025 - 12:00
Endocr Connect. 2025 Jan 1:EC-24-0587. doi: 10.1530/EC-24-0587. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTBACKGROUND: Prostate cancer therapy with surgical or chemical castration with GnRH agonists has been linked to elevated FSH levels, which may contribute to secondary health disorders, including atherosclerosis and diabetes. Although recent findings suggest a role for FSH beyond the reproductive system, its metabolic impact remains unclear and difficult to disentangle from that of androgens. In this study, we examined the metabolic changes induced by FSH and distinguished them from those caused by testosterone.METHODS: Plasma samples from temporarily medically castrated young men (n=33) treated with FSH and/or testosterone were characterized by proteomics and metabolomics approaches. All subjects received GnRH antagonists. Sixteen men were randomized to recombinant FSH (rFSH, 300 IU 3 times/week) for 5 weeks, while seventeen men served as controls. After 3 weeks, all men received 1000 mg testosterone undecanoate intramuscular. Blood samples were collected at the start, after 3 weeks, and after 5 weeks. The proteome and metabolome signatures were characterized in all samples.RESULTS: FSH significantly upregulates key proteins involved in the modulation of inflammatory response and innate immune system (p≤0.03) and dysregulates lipid metabolism, evidenced by downregulation of multiple apolipoproteins (p≤0.04) and increased levels of cholesterol and glycerophospholipids (p≤0.03). Additionally, low FSH levels were correlated with a reduction in the active form of vitamin D (p<0.02). These results highlight the short-term metabolic impacts of FSH in males.CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Our findings underlined the FSH effect on extra-gonadal systems and its connection to metabolic disorders often seen as secondary effects of prostate cancer treatment.PMID:39745472 | DOI:10.1530/EC-24-0587

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