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

PubMed

High fatty acid accumulation and coloration molecular mechanism of the elm mushroom (Pleurotus citrinopileatus)

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2024 Jan 3:zbad183. doi: 10.1093/bbb/zbad183. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTPleurotus citrinopileatus is a low-cholesterol, protein-rich, and high-nutrient food. The molecular mechanisms of the compounds and coloration have not been reported. Metabolome and transcriptome were used to clarify the molecular mechanisms of key compounds biosynthesis. K-means analysis identified 19 compounds in P. citrinopileatus, mainly lipids and alkaloids in class 8. In addition, 84 lipids were higher and that the different compounds were mainly enriched in linoleic acid metabolism. 14 compounds detected in the linoleic acid metabolism pathway were significantly up-regulated, while three SREBP transcription factors were screened. Tryptophan metabolism and riboflavin biosynthesis pathway analysis indicated that three Unigenes had TDC similar elements, which belonged to tyrosine decarboxylase 1. Moreover, CL15618.Contig5_All had high homology with MFS. In conclusion, the expression of three SREBP, the synthesis of isobavachalcone D, and the regulation of riboflavin transport by MCH5 were the reasons for fatty acid accumulation and yellow cap formation in the P. citrinopileatus.PMID:38171531 | DOI:10.1093/bbb/zbad183

Metabolomics study on the difference of tongue coating metabolites between patients with intra-oral halitosis and healthy individual

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Shanghai Kou Qiang Yi Xue. 2023 Oct;32(5):525-531.ABSTRACTPURPOSE: To analyze the difference of metabolites of tongue coating between patients with intra-oral halitosis and healthy individuals by untargeted metabolomics, and to explore significant differences in metabolites of intra-oral halitosis as biomarkers.METHODS: The untargeted metabolomics of tongue coating samples from 12 patients with intra-oral halitosis and 12 healthy individuals were studied by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry combined with principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis. The value of variable importance in projection >1 and P<0.05 of Student's t test in the orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis model were used as the criteria to screen and determine the differential metabolites.RESULTS: There were differences in the metabolites of tongue coating between patients with intra-oral halitosis and healthy individuals, and 11 different metabolites were identified. They were valyl-arginine, glycine-phenylalanine, tryptophyl-proline, deoxyadenosine, 4,5-dihydroniveusin A, N-acetyl-DL-tryptophan, paramethasone acetate, cyclopentanol, [(2-hexylcyclopentylidene) amino]thiourea, L-pipecolic acid and taurine. In the intra-oral halitosis group, the expressions of Glycine-phenylalanine and N-acetyl-DL-tryptophan were significantly up-regulated, while the expressions of taurine were significantly down-regulated.CONCLUSIONS: There are differences in the metabolites of tongue coating between patients with intra-oral halitosis and healthy individuals. The differential metabolites with diagnostic value may be used as diagnostic markers of intra-oral halitosis.PMID:38171524

Disrupting the gut microbiota/metabolites axis by Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate drives intestinal inflammation via AhR/NF-κB pathway in mice

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Environ Pollut. 2024 Jan 1:123232. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123232. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTDi-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used plasticizer known for its environmental endocrine-disrupting properties, posing potential risks to various organs. However, the precise impact of DEHP on intestinal health and its contribution to the initiation of intestinal inflammation remains elucidated. This study aims to investigate the underlying mechanisms of DEHP-induced intestinal inflammation in mice, specifically focusing on the complex interplay between the gut microbiota-metabolite axis and associated pathophysiological alterations. Our findings showed that DEHP-induced damage of multiple organs systemically, as indicated by abnormal liver and kidney biochemical markers, along with a disrupted ileum morphology. Additionally, DEHP exposure disrupted gut barrier function, causing intestinal inflammation characterized by bacterial translocation and alterations in defense and inflammation-related gene expressions. Moreover, 16S rRNA analysis suggested that DEHP-induced gut microbial remodeling is characterized by an upregulation of detrimental bacteria (Erysipelotrichaceae) and a downregulation of beneficial bacteria (Muribaculaceae, Ruminococcaceae, and Lachnospiraceae). Metabolomics analysis revealed DEHP perturbed gut metabolic homeostasis, particularly affecting the degradation of aromatic compounds, which generated an aberrant activation of the AhR and NF-κB, subsequently causing intestinal inflammation. Consequently, our results elucidate the mechanistic link between disrupted gut microbiota and metabolome and the initiation of DEHP-induced intestinal inflammation, mediated through the AhR/NF-κB signaling pathway.PMID:38171427 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123232

The roles and mechanisms of TGFB1 in acute myeloid leukemia chemoresistance

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Cell Signal. 2024 Jan 1:111027. doi: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.111027. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTRelapsed or Refractory (R/R) Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) patients usually have very poor prognoses, and drug-resistance is one of the major limiting factors. In this study, we aimed to explore the functions of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGFB1) in AML drug-resistance. First, TGFB1 levels in serum and bone marrow are higher in R/R patients compared with newly diagnosed patients, this phenomenon could be due to different sources of secreted TGFB1 according to immunohistochemistry of marrow biopsies. Similarly, TGFB1 expression in AML drug-resistant cell lines is higher than that in their parental cell lines, and blocking the TGFB signaling pathway by specific inhibitors decreased resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. On the other hand, exogenous TGFB1 can also promote AML parental cells senescence and chemotherapy resistance. Next, we found SOX4 level is upregulated in drug-resistant cells, and parental cells treated with exogenous TGFB1 induced upregulation of SOX4 levels. Interference of SOX4 expression by siRNA diminished the TGFB1-induced sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents. Finally, we conduct metabolomic analysis and find Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism pathway, and Glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway are decreased after inhibiting TGFB signaling pathway or interfering SOX4 expression. This study concludes that TGFB1 level in R/R AML patients and drug-resistant strains is significantly increased. Blocking the TGFB signaling pathway can enhance the chemosensitivity of drug-resistant cells by suppressing SOX4 expression and metabolic reprogramming.PMID:38171389 | DOI:10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.111027

Deciphering the metabolic heterogeneity of hematopoietic stem cells with single-cell resolution

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Cell Metab. 2024 Jan 2;36(1):209-221.e6. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.12.005.ABSTRACTMetabolic status is crucial for stem cell functions; however, the metabolic heterogeneity of endogenous stem cells has never been directly assessed. Here, we develop a platform for high-throughput single-cell metabolomics (hi-scMet) of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). By combining flow cytometric isolation and nanoparticle-enhanced laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry, we routinely detected >100 features from single cells. We mapped the single-cell metabolomes of all hematopoietic cell populations and HSC subpopulations with different division times, detecting 33 features whose levels exhibited trending changes during HSC proliferation. We found progressive activation of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (OxiPPP) from dormant to active HSCs. Genetic or pharmacological interference with OxiPPP increased reactive oxygen species level in HSCs, reducing HSC self-renewal upon oxidative stress. Together, our work uncovers the metabolic dynamics during HSC proliferation, reveals a role of OxiPPP for HSC activation, and illustrates the utility of hi-scMet in dissecting metabolic heterogeneity of immunophenotypically defined cell populations.PMID:38171334 | DOI:10.1016/j.cmet.2023.12.005

Serine synthesis via reversed SHMT2 activity drives glycine depletion and acetaminophen hepatotoxicity in MASLD

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Cell Metab. 2024 Jan 2;36(1):116-129.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.12.013.ABSTRACTMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects one-third of the global population. Understanding the metabolic pathways involved can provide insights into disease progression and treatment. Untargeted metabolomics of livers from mice with early-stage steatosis uncovered decreased methylated metabolites, suggesting altered one-carbon metabolism. The levels of glycine, a central component of one-carbon metabolism, were lower in mice with hepatic steatosis, consistent with clinical evidence. Stable-isotope tracing demonstrated that increased serine synthesis from glycine via reverse serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) is the underlying cause for decreased glycine in steatotic livers. Consequently, limited glycine availability in steatotic livers impaired glutathione synthesis under acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress, enhancing acute hepatotoxicity. Glycine supplementation or hepatocyte-specific ablation of the mitochondrial SHMT2 isoform in mice with hepatic steatosis mitigated acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity by supporting de novo glutathione synthesis. Thus, early metabolic changes in MASLD that limit glycine availability sensitize mice to xenobiotics even at the reversible stage of this disease.PMID:38171331 | DOI:10.1016/j.cmet.2023.12.013

Alterations in mitochondrial structure and function in response to environmental temperature changes in Apostichopus japonicus

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Mar Environ Res. 2023 Dec 30;194:106330. doi: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106330. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTGlobal temperatures have risen as a result of climate change, and the resulting warmer seawater will exert physiological stresses on many aquatic animals, including Apostichopus japonicus. It has been suggested that the sensitivity of aquatic poikilothermal animals to climate change is closely related to mitochondrial function. Therefore, understanding the interaction between elevated temperature and mitochondrial functioning is key to characterizing organisms' responses to heat stress. However, little is known about the mitochondrial response to heat stress in A. japonicus. In this work, we investigated the morphological and functional changes of A. japonicus mitochondria under three representative temperatures, control temperature (18 °C), aestivation temperature (25 °C) and heat stress temperature (32 °C) temperatures using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation of mitochondrial morphology combined with proteomics and metabolomics techniques. The results showed that the mitochondrial morphology of A. japonicus was altered, with decreases in the number of mitochondrial cristae at 25 °C and mitochondrial lysis, fracture, and vacuolization at 32 °C. Proteomic and metabolomic analyses revealed 103 differentially expressed proteins and 161 differential metabolites at 25 °C. At 32 °C, the levels of 214 proteins and 172 metabolites were significantly altered. These proteins and metabolites were involved in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, substance transport, membrane potential homeostasis, anti-stress processes, mitochondrial autophagy, and apoptosis. Furthermore, a hypothetical network of proteins and metabolites in A. japonicus mitochondria in response to temperature changes was constructed based on proteomic and metabolomic data. These results suggest that the dynamic regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism, resistance to oxidative stress, autophagy, apoptosis, and mitochondrial morphology in A. japonicus may play important roles in the response to elevated temperatures. In summary, this study describes the response of A. japonicus mitochondria to temperature changes from the perspectives of morphology, proteins, and metabolites, which provided a better understanding the mechanisms of mitochondrial regulation under environment stress in marine echinoderms.PMID:38171258 | DOI:10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106330

Emerging role of the crosstalk between gut microbiota and liver metabolome of subterranean herbivores in response to toxic plants

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2024 Jan 2;269:115902. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115902. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTPlant secondary metabolites (PSMs) are a defense mechanism against herbivores, which in turn use detoxification metabolism to process ingested and absorbed PSMs. The feeding environment can cause changes in liver metabolism patterns and the gut microbiota. Here, we compared gut microbiota and liver metabolome to investigate the response mechanism of plateau zokors (Eospalax baileyi) to toxic plant Stellera chamaejasme (SC) in non-SC and SC grassland (-SCG and +SCG). Our results indicated that exposure to SC in the -SCG population increased liver inflammatory markers including prostaglandin (PG) in the Arachidonic acid pathway, while exposure to SC in the +SCG population exhibited a significant downregulation of PGs. Secondary bile acids were significantly downregulated in +SCG plateau zokors after SC treatment. Of note, the microbial taxa Veillonella in the -SCG group was significantly correlated with liver inflammation markers, while Clostridium innocum in the +SCG group had a significant positive correlation with secondary bile acids. The increase in bile acids and PGs can lead to liver inflammatory reactions, suggesting that +SCG plateau zokors may mitigate the toxicity of SC plants by reducing liver inflammatory markers including PGs and secondary bile acids, thereby avoiding liver damage. This provides new insight into mechanisms of toxicity by PSMs and counter-mechanisms for toxin tolerance by herbivores.PMID:38171231 | DOI:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115902

cGMP modulates hemin-mediated platelet death

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Thromb Res. 2023 Dec 21;234:63-74. doi: 10.1016/j.thromres.2023.12.008. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTBACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hemolysis is a known risk factor for thrombosis resulting in critical limb ischemia and microcirculatory disturbance and organ failure. Intravasal hemolysis may lead to life-threatening complications due to uncontrolled thrombo-inflammation. Until now, conventional antithrombotic therapies failed to control development and progression of these thrombotic events. Thus, the pathophysiology of these thrombotic events needs to be investigated to unravel underlying pathways and thereby identify targets for novel treatment strategies.METHODS: Here we used classical experimental set-ups as well as high-end flow cytometry, metabolomics and lipidomic analysis to in-depth analyze the effects of hemin on platelet physiology and morphology.RESULTS: Hemin does strongly and swiftly induce platelet activation and this process is modulated by the sGC-cGMP-cGKI signaling axis. cGMP modulation also reduced the pro-aggregatory potential of plasma derived from patients with hemolysis. Furthermore, hemin-induced platelet death evokes distinct platelet subpopulations. Typical cell death markers, such as ROS, were induced by hemin-stimulation and the platelet lipidome was specifically altered by high hemin concentration. Specifically, arachidonic acid derivates, such as PGE2, TXB2 or 12-HHT, were significantly increased. Balancing the cGMP levels by modulation of the sGC-cGMP-cGKI axis diminished the ferroptotic effect of hemin.CONCLUSION: We found that cGMP modulates hemin-induced platelet activation and thrombus formation in vitro and cGMP effects hemin-mediated platelet death and changes in the platelet lipidome. Thus, it is tempting to speculate that modulating platelet cGMP levels may be a novel strategy to control thrombosis and critical limb ischemia in patients with hemolytic crisis.PMID:38171216 | DOI:10.1016/j.thromres.2023.12.008

Mixed probiotics modulated gut microbiota to improve spermatogenesis in bisphenol A-exposed male mice

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2024 Jan 2;270:115922. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115922. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTBisphenol A (BPA), an environmental endocrine disruptor (EDC), has been implicated in impairing intestinal and male reproductive dysfunction. The efficacy of gut microbiota modulation for BPA-exposed testicular dysfunction has yet to be verified through research. Therefore, this study explored the potential of mixed probiotics in restoring spermatogenesis damage through the gut-testis axis under BPA exposure. We selected two probiotics strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus plantarum) with BPA removal properties in vitro and the BPA-exposed male mice model was established. The probiotics mixture effectively reduced BPA residue in the gut, serum, and testis in mice. Through 16 S rDNA-seq and metabolomics sequencing, we uncovered that vitamin D metabolism and bile acid levels in the gut was abolished under BPA exposure. This perturbation was linked to an increased abundance of Faecalibaculum and decreased abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and Ligilactobacillus. The probiotics mixture restored this balance, enhancing intestinal barrier function and reducing oxidative stress. This improvement was accompanied by a restored balance of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Remarkably, the probiotics ameliorated testicular dysfunction by repairing structures of seminiferous tubules and reversing arrested spermiogenesis. Further, the probiotics mixture enhanced testosterone-driven increases in spermatogonial stem cells and all stages of sperm cells. Testicular transcriptome profiling linked these improvements to fatty acid degradation and peroxisome pathways. These findings suggest a significant interplay between spermatogenesis and gut microbiota, demonstrating that probiotic intake could be a viable strategy for combating male subfertility issues caused by BPA exposure.PMID:38171106 | DOI:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115922

Effects of X-ray cranial irradiation on metabolomics and intestinal flora in mice

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2024 Jan 2;270:115898. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115898. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTCranial radiotherapy is an important treatment for intracranial and head and neck tumors. To investigate the effects of cranial irradiation (C-irradiation) on gut microbiota and metabolomic profile, the feces, plasma and cerebral cortex were isolated after exposing mice to cranial X-ray irradiation at a dose rate of 2.33 Gy/min (5 Gy/d for 4 d consecutively). The gut microorganisms and metabolites were detected by 16 S rRNA gene sequencing method and LC-MS method, respectively. We found that compared with sham group, the gut microbiota composition changed at 2 W and 4 W after C-irradiation at the genus level. The fecal metabolomics showed that compared with Sham group, 44 and 66 differential metabolites were found to be annotated into metabolism pathways at 2 W and 4 W after C-irradiation, which were significantly enriched in the arginine and proline metabolism. Metabolome analysis of serum and cerebral cortex showed that, at 4 W after C-irradiation, the expression pattern of metabolites in serum samples of mice was similar to that of sham group, and the cerebral cortex metabolites of the two groups were completely separated. KEGG functional analysis showed that serum and brain tissue differential metabolites were respectively enriched in tryptophan metabolism, and arginine proline metabolism. The correlation analysis showed that the changes of gut microbiota genera were significantly correlated with the changes of metabolism, especially Helicobacter, which was significantly correlated with many different metabolites at 4 W after C-irradiation. These data suggested that C-irradiation could affect the gut microbiota and metabolism profile, even at relatively long times after C-irradiation.PMID:38171101 | DOI:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115898

Integration of metagenome and metabolome analysis reveals the correlation of gut microbiota, oxidative stress, and inflammation in Coilia nasus under air exposure stress and salinity mitigation

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Comp Biochem Physiol Part D Genomics Proteomics. 2023 Dec 29;49:101175. doi: 10.1016/j.cbd.2023.101175. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTDue to the strong response to air exposure, high mortality was occurred in Coilia nasus. Previous studies reported that 10 ‰ NaCl could significantly reduce mortality in C. nasus under air exposure. To investigate the mechanisms that 10 ‰ NaCl can alleviate stress, community structure and metabolism of the intestinal flora of C. nasus were detected via metagenome and metabolome. In this study, C. nasus were divided into control group (C), air exposure group without 10 ‰ NaCl (AE), and air exposure group with 10 ‰ NaCl (AES). After air exposure stress and salinity mitigation, the mortality, intestinal microorganisms, metabolites, and physiological biomarkers were analyzed. The results showed that the mortality rate of C. nasus was reduced after salinity reduction; the antioxidant capacity was elevated compared to the AE group; and anti-inflammatory capacity was increased in the AES group compared to the AE group. Metagenomic sequencing results showed that the levels of harmful bacteria (E. coli, Aeromonas) in the Candida nasus gut increased after air exposure; beneficial bacteria (Actinobacteria, Corynebacteria) in the C. nasus gut increased after salinity reduction. Metabolomics analyses showed that AE decreased the expression of beneficial metabolites and increased the expression of harmful metabolites; AES increased beneficial metabolites and decreased harmful metabolites. Correlation analysis showed that in the AE group, beneficial metabolites were negatively correlated with oxidative stress and inflammatory response, while harmful metabolites were positively correlated with oxidative stress and inflammatory response, and were associated with bacterial communities such as Gillisia, Alkalitalia, Avipoxvirus, etc.; the correlation of metabolites with oxidative stress and inflammatory response was opposite to that of AE in the case of AES, and was associated with Lentilactobacillus, Cyanobacterium, and other bacterial communities. Air exposure caused damage to Candida rhinoceros and 10 ‰ salinity was beneficial in alleviating C. nasus stress. These results will provide new insights into methods and mechanisms to mitigate stress in fish.PMID:38171069 | DOI:10.1016/j.cbd.2023.101175

Microbial, proteomic, and metabolomic profiling of the estrous cycle in wild house mice

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Microbiol Spectr. 2024 Jan 3:e0203723. doi: 10.1128/spectrum.02037-23. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTOur data revealed dynamic changes in vaginal, but not salivary, microbiome composition during the reproductive cycle of wild mice. With multiple OMICs platforms, we provide evidence that changes in microbiota in the vaginal environment are accompanied by changes in the proteomic and metabolomics profiles of the host. This study describes the natural microbiota of wild mice and may contribute to a better understanding of microbiome-host immune system interactions during the hormonal and cellular changes in the female reproductive tract. Moreover, analysis of volatiles in the vaginal fluid shows particular substances that can be involved in chemical communication and reproductive behavior.PMID:38171017 | DOI:10.1128/spectrum.02037-23

Guanosine diphosphate-mannose suppresses homologous recombination repair and potentiates antitumor immunity in triple-negative breast cancer

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Sci Transl Med. 2024 Jan 3;16(728):eadg7740. doi: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adg7740. Epub 2024 Jan 3.ABSTRACTTriple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer with poor prognosis. TNBCs with high homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) scores benefit from DNA-damaging agents, including platinum drugs and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, whereas those with low HRD scores still lack therapeutic options. Therefore, we sought to exploit metabolic alterations to induce HRD and sensitize DNA-damaging agents in TNBCs with low HRD scores. We systematically analyzed TNBC metabolomics and identified a metabolite, guanosine diphosphate (GDP)-mannose (GDP-M), that impeded homologous recombination repair (HRR). Mechanistically, the low expression of the upstream enzyme GDP-mannose-pyrophosphorylase-A (GMPPA) led to the endogenous up-regulation of GDP-M in TNBC. The accumulation of GDP-M in tumor cells further reduced the interaction between breast cancer susceptibility gene 2 (BRCA2) and ubiquitin-specific peptidase 21 (USP21), which promoted the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of BRCA2 to inhibit HRR. Therapeutically, we illustrated that the supplementation of GDP-M sensitized DNA-damaging agents to impair tumor growth in both in vitro (cancer cell line and patient-derived organoid) and in vivo (xenograft in immunodeficient mouse) models. Moreover, the combination of GDP-M with DNA-damaging agents activated STING-dependent antitumor immunity in immunocompetent syngeneic mouse models. Therefore, GDP-M supplementation combined with PARP inhibition augmented the efficacy of anti-PD-1 antibodies. Together, these findings suggest that GDP-M is a crucial HRD-related metabolite and propose a promising therapeutic strategy for TNBCs with low HRD scores using the combination of GDP-M, PARP inhibitors, and anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.PMID:38170790 | DOI:10.1126/scitranslmed.adg7740

Gut metabolite L-lactate supports <em>Campylobacter jejuni</em> population expansion during acute infection

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2024 Jan 9;121(2):e2316540120. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2316540120. Epub 2024 Jan 3.ABSTRACTHow the microaerobic pathogen Campylobacter jejuni establishes its niche and expands in the gut lumen during infection is poorly understood. Using 6-wk-old ferrets as a natural disease model, we examined this aspect of C. jejuni pathogenicity. Unlike mice, which require significant genetic or physiological manipulation to become colonized with C. jejuni, ferrets are readily infected without the need to disarm the immune system or alter the gut microbiota. Disease after C. jejuni infection in ferrets reflects closely how human C. jejuni infection proceeds. Rapid growth of C. jejuni and associated intestinal inflammation was observed within 2 to 3 d of infection. We observed pathophysiological changes that were noted by cryptic hyperplasia through the induction of tissue repair systems, accumulation of undifferentiated amplifying cells on the colon surface, and instability of HIF-1α in colonocytes, which indicated increased epithelial oxygenation. Metabolomic analysis demonstrated that lactate levels in colon content were elevated in infected animals. A C. jejuni mutant lacking lctP, which encodes an L-lactate transporter, was significantly decreased for colonization during infection. Lactate also influences adhesion and invasion by C. jejuni to a colon carcinoma cell line (HCT116). The oxygenation required for expression of lactate transporter (lctP) led to identification of a putative thiol-based redox switch regulator (LctR) that may repress lctP transcription under anaerobic conditions. Our work provides better insights into the pathogenicity of C. jejuni.PMID:38170751 | DOI:10.1073/pnas.2316540120

A sound mind in a sound body: a novel concept unravelling heterogeneity of depression

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Neuropsychopharmacol Hung. 2023 Dec;25(4):183-193.ABSTRACTDepression is a highly prevalent and debilitating condition, yet we still lack both in-depth knowledge concerning its etiopathology and sufficiently efficacious treatment options. With approximately one third of patients resistant to currently available antidepressants there is a pressing need for a better understanding of depression, identifying subgroups within the highly heterogeneous illness category and to understand the divergent underlying biology of such subtypes, to help develop and personalise treatments. The TRAJECTOME project aims to address such challenges by (1) identifying depression-related multimorbidity subgroups and shared molecular pathways based on temporal disease profiles from healthcare systems and biobank data using machine learning approaches, and by (2) characterising these subgroups from multiple aspects including genetic variants, metabolic processes, lifestyle and environmental factors. Following the identification of multimorbidity trajectories, a disease burden score related to depression and adjusted for multimorbidity was established summarising the current state of the patient to weigh the molecular mechanisms associated with depression. In addition, the role of genetic and environmental factors, and also their interactions were identified for all subgroups. The project also attempted to identify potential metabolomic markers for the early diagnostics of these multimorbidity conditions. Finally, we prioritized molecular drug candidates matching the multimorbidity pathways indicated for the individual subgroups which would potentially offer personalised treatment simultaneously for the observable multimorbid conditions yet minimising polypharmacy and related side effects. The present paper overviews the TRAJECTOME project including its aims, tasks, procedures and accomplishments. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2023; 25(4): 183-193)PMID:38170729

Can the gut microbiome inform the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation trials on cognition?

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2023 Dec 26. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000001007. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTPURPOSE OF REVIEW: Most omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) supplementation clinical trials report inconsistent or null findings on measures of cognition or Alzheimer's disease (AD) with a relatively large variability in the response to n-3 PUFA supplementation. The purpose of this review is to identify whether the gut microbiome together with the metabolome can provide critical insights to understand this heterogeneity in the response to n-3 PUFA supplementation.RECENT FINDINGS: A Western diet with high saturated fat and omega-6 fatty acid content, obesity, and lack of exercise puts strain on the gut microbiome resulting in imbalance, dysbiosis, reduced bacterial diversity, and increased abundance of the pro-inflammatory taxa. A plant-based diet has beneficial effects on the gut microbiota even when deficient in n-3 PUFAs. Human and animal studies show that increased intake of the n-3 PUFAs correlates with increased beneficial intestinal bacteria when compared to a Western diet.SUMMARY: The composition of the gut microbiota can help define the effects of n-3 PUFA supplementation on the brain and lead to more personalized nutritional interventions.PMID:38170690 | DOI:10.1097/MCO.0000000000001007

Protocol for visualizing complex volatile metabolomics data in clinical setups using EDaViS software

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
STAR Protoc. 2024 Jan 1;5(1):102808. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102808. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTHere, we present a protocol for using Early Data Visualization Script, a user-friendly software tool to visualize complex volatile metabolomics data in clinical setups. We describe steps for tabulating data and adjusting visual output to visualize complex time-resolved volatile omics data using simple charts and graphs. We then demonstrate possible modifications by detailing procedures for the adaptation of four basic functions. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Sukul et al. (2022)1 and Remy et al. (2022).2.PMID:38170664 | DOI:10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102808

Stem Cell-Based Strategies: The Future Direction of Bioartificial Liver Development

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Stem Cell Rev Rep. 2024 Jan 3. doi: 10.1007/s12015-023-10672-5. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTAcute liver failure (ALF) results from severe liver damage or end-stage liver disease. It is extremely fatal and causes serious health and economic burdens worldwide. Once ALF occurs, liver transplantation (LT) is the only definitive and recommended treatment; however, LT is limited by the scarcity of liver grafts. Consequently, the clinical use of bioartificial liver (BAL) has been proposed as a treatment strategy for ALF. Human primary hepatocytes are an ideal cell source for these methods. However, their high demand and superior viability prevent their widespread use. Hence, finding alternatives that meet the seed cell quality and quantity requirements is imperative. Stem cells with self-renewing, immunogenic, and differentiative capacities are potential cell sources. MSCs and its secretomes encompass a spectrum of beneficial properties, such as anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-ROS (reactive oxygen species), anti-apoptotic, pro-metabolomic, anti-fibrogenesis, and pro-regenerative attributes. This review focused on the recent status and future directions of stem cell-based strategies in BAL for ALF. Additionally, we discussed the opportunities and challenges associated with promoting such strategies for clinical applications.PMID:38170319 | DOI:10.1007/s12015-023-10672-5

Fermentation of waste water from agar processing with Bacillus subtilis by metabolomic analysis

Wed, 03/01/2024 - 12:00
Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2024 Dec;108(1):1-15. doi: 10.1007/s00253-023-12891-9. Epub 2024 Jan 3.ABSTRACTFungal infection has become a major threat to crop loss and affects food safety. The waste water from agar processing industries extraction has a number of active substances, which could be further transformed by microorganisms to synthesize antifungal active substances. In this study, Bacillus subtilis was used to ferment the waste water from agar processing industries extraction to analyze the antifungal activity of the fermentation broth on Alternaria alternata and Alternaria spp. Results showed that 25% of the fermentation broth was the most effective in inhibited A. alternata and Alternaria spp., with fungal inhibition rates of 99.9% and 96.1%, respectively, and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 0.156 μg/mL. Metabolomic analysis showed that flavonoid polyphenols such as coniferyl aldehyde, glycycoumarin, glycitin, and procyanidin A1 may enhance the inhibitory activity against the two pathogenic fungal strains. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that polyphenols involved in the biosynthesis pathways of isoflavonoid and phenylpropanoid were upregulated after fermentation. The laser confocal microscopy analyses and cell conductivity showed that the cytoplasm of fungi treated with fermentation broth was destroyed. This study provides a research basis for the development of new natural antifungal agents and rational use of seaweed agar waste. KEY POINTS: • Bacillus subtilis fermented waste water has antifungal activity • Bacillus subtilis could transform active substances in waste water • Waste water is a potential raw material for producing antifungal agents.PMID:38170310 | DOI:10.1007/s00253-023-12891-9

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