Comprehensive modular analyses of scar subtypes illuminate underlying molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.

Pathological scarring resulting from traumas and wounds, such as hypertrophic scars and keloids, pose significant aesthetic, functional and psychological challenges. This study provides a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of these conditions, aiming to illuminate underlying molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. We employed a co-expression and module analysis tool to identify significant gene clusters associated with distinct pathophysiological processes and mechanisms, notably lipid metabolism, sebum production, cellular energy metabolism and skin barrier function. This examination yielded critical insights into several skin conditions including folliculitis, skin fibrosis, fibrosarcoma and congenital ichthyosis. Particular attention was paid to Module Cluster (MCluster) 3, encompassing genes like BLK, TRPV1 and GABRD, all displaying high expression and potential implications in immune modulation. Preliminary immunohistochemistry validation supported these findings, showing elevated expression of these genes in non-fibrotic samples rich in immune activity. The complex interplay of different cell types in scar formation, such as fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, keratinocytes and mast cells, was also explored, revealing promising therapeutic strategies. This study underscores the promise of targeted gene therapy for pathological scars, paving the way for more personalised therapeutic approaches. The results necessitate further research to fully ascertain the roles of these identified genes and pathways in skin disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutics. Nonetheless, our work forms a strong foundation for a new era of personalised medicine for patients suffering from pathological scarring.

Genetic and Biological Characteristics of Duck-Origin H4N6 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated in China in 2022.

The interaction between migratory birds and domestic waterfowl facilitates viral co-infections, leading to viral reassortment and the emergence of novel viruses. In 2022, samples were collected from duck farms around Poyang Lake in Jiangxi Province, China, which is located within the East Asia-Australasia flyway. Three strains of H4N6 avian influenza virus (AIV) were isolated. Genetic and phylogenetic analyses showed that the isolated H4N6 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) belonged to new genotypes, G23 and G24. All isolated strains demonstrated dual receptor binding properties. Additionally, the isolated strains were able to replicate efficiently not only in avian cells but also in mammalian cells. Furthermore, the H4N6 AIV isolates could infect chickens, with viral replication detected in the lungs and extrapulmonary organs, and could transmit within chicken flocks through contact, with viral shedding detected only in oropharyngeal swabs from chickens in the contact group. Notably, the H4N6 AIV could infect mice without prior adaptation and replicate in the lungs with high viral titers, suggesting that it is a potential threat to humans. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insight into the characteristics of H4N6 strains currently circulating in China.

Oridonin-loaded poly(epsilon-caprolactone)-poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(epsilon-caprolactone) copolymer nanoparticles: preparation, characterization, and antitumor activity on mice with transplanted hepatoma.

The aim of the present study was to develop a polymeric delivery system for water-insoluble drug oridonin. Amphiphilic block copolymers, poly(epsilon-caprolactone)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly (epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL-PEO-PCL), were synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of caprolactone initiated by the hydroxyl groups of poly(ethylene glycol)6000 (PEG-6000) with stannous octoate as catalyzer. Oridonin-loaded PCL-PEO-PCL copolymer nanoparticles (ORI-PCL-PEO-PCL-NPs) were prepared by the interfacial deposition method. The mean particle size of the drug-loaded nanoparticles was 97.5 nm and the zeta potential was - 25 mV. The entrapment efficiency and actual drug loading of the nanoparticles were 87.52% +/- 1.86% and 8.63% +/- 0.49%, respectively. The antitumor activity of ORI-PCL-PEO-PCL-NPs was evaluated by measuring changes in tumor volumes, tumor weights, and survival rates of mice with grafted hepatoma (H22). The results indicated that ORI-PCL-PEO-PCL-NPs prolonged the survival time of mice and exhibited higher therapeutic efficacy compared with free oridonin. Thus, ORI-PCL-PEO-PCL-NPs may be used as a promising delivery system for liver cancer treatment.