CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing: from basic research to gene therapy

CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing is one of the most significant molecular tools discovered to edit the desired genes. It has ushered in a new era of novel possibilities of gene therapy. CRISPR/Cas9 system was originally observed as a part of the adaptive immune system in bacteria. It later on was adapted to carry precise and targeted alterations to the DNA in human cells to be used for gene therapy to correct genetic disorders and treat various severe diseases associated with the genetic changes. Besides this, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been employed in pharmacogenomics to develop new drugs based on the patient’s genes, in modifying the organisms for research and even for diagnostic purposes in developing CRISPR based COVID-9 test. The recent approval of a CRISPR/Cas9 cellular gene therapy by FDA named “Casgevy” to treat sickle cell anemia is a testimonial to the potentials of CRISPR/Cas9 system in developing innovative gene therapies. This review details the mechanisms of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and its utilization in the ongoing clinical trials in the treatment of not only the monogenic disorders like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and genetic blindness but also in treating multi-factorial diseases like cancers, cardiac diseases, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, viral infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) etc. An attempt has also been made to discuss the various limitations, challenges and ethical frameworks encompassing CRISPR/Cas9 based gene therapy in clinical settings.

Vitiligo and depression: an observational study in patients attending tertiary care centre

Background: Vitiligo, a chronic skin disorder characterized by depigmentation and white patch formation, not only poses a cosmetic challenge but also imposes a significant psychological burden. The relationship between vitiligo and depression remains underexplored, despite growing recognition of their potential association. This observational study aimed to investigate the prevalence of depression and assess the quality of life (QoL) among patients with vitiligo attending a tertiary care center. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the dermatology and psychiatry departments of SRVS Medical College, Shivpuri, involving 150 vitiligo patients aged 18 to 60 years. Participants were assessed using the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), vitiligo area scoring index (VASI), and dermatology life quality index (DLQI). Statistical analyses were performed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results: The mean age of participants was 38.55±14.82 years, with 69.3% being female. Nonsegmental vitiligo accounted for 84% of cases, and 42.6% had active disease. The mean DLQI score was 8.45±6.12, with female gender and active disease significantly associated with lower QoL scores. A strong correlation was observed between depressive symptoms and impaired QoL (DLQI). The prevalence of depression (PHQ-9 score ?9) was 14.6%, with employed individuals showing a significantly higher prevalence compared to other groups. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the significant burden of depression and impaired QoL among vitiligo patients attending a tertiary care center. Addressing the psychosocial aspects of vitiligo alongside its dermatological manifestations is crucial for optimizing patient care and enhancing overall well-being. Further longitudinal research is warranted to elucidate the complex relationship between vitiligo and depression.

Neural and Neural Crest-Derived Stem Cell Distribution in the Adult Human Dental Pulp / Distribución de Células Madre Neurales y Derivadas de la Cresta Neural en la Pulpa Dental Humana Adulta

SUMMARY: Despite comprehensive studies and reports about the properties of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in vitro, we still need to confirm whether these in vitro characteristics coincide with the nature of DPSCs in situ. The anatomical location of DPSCs populations in the dental pulp has yet to be investigated. Moreover, the mesenchymal DPSCs have been much more studied than the neural crest-derived DPSCs. In this study, well-recognized neural/neural crest stem cell markers NCAM1, Nestin, SNAIL/SLUG, SOX9, and S100 are being investigated by immunohistochemistry to localize the precise location of these populations of DPSCs within the human adult dental pulp.All previously mentioned markers were expressed in the dental pulp, and their intensity and location of expression were reported.

A pesar de estudios e informes exhaustivos sobre las propiedades de las células madre de la pulpa dental (DPSC) in vitro, todavía necesitamos confirmar si estas características in vitro coinciden con la naturaleza de las DPSC in situ. La ubicación anatómica de las poblaciones de DPSC en la pulpa dental aún no se ha investigado. Además, las DPSC mesenquimales han sido mucho más estudiadas que las DPSC derivadas de la cresta neural. En este estudio, se están investigando mediante inmunohisto química marcadores de células madre de la cresta neural/ neural NCAM1, Nestin, SNAIL/SLUG, SOX9 y S100 para localizar la ubicación precisa de estas poblaciones de DPSC dentro de la pulpa dental humana adulta. Todos los marcadores mencionados anteriormente se expresaron en la pulpa dental y se informó su intensidad y ubicación de expresión.

Differential biological activity of two extracts of ripe fruits of Carica candamarcensis Hook on human neutrophils / Actividad biologica diferencial de dos extractos de frutos maduros de Carica candamarcensis Hook en neutrófilos humanos

We evaluated the effect of the total macerate (TM) and seed oil (SO) of mature Carica candamarcensis fruits, on the release of Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and the phosphorylation of MAPK in neutrophils. The antioxidant capacity of these extracts was evaluated by ABTS assay. Neutrophils stimulated with different dilutions of TM or SO were analyzed for cytotoxicity, MMP9 release, and MAPK phosphorylation, using trypan blue exclusion assays, zymography, and immunoblotting, respectively. Both extracts show antioxidant activity, being higher in TM; none presented cytotoxic effect. The 5% and 2.5% dilutions of TM significantly reduced MMP9 release, and all decreased MAPK phosphorylation. SO significantly increased the release o f MMP9 and MAPK phosphorylation, the effect being greater when they were prestimulated with lipopolysaccharide.TM may have anti - inflammatory potential, while SO could have a priming effect that needs to be confirmed

Evaluamos el efecto del macerado total (MT) y aceite de semillas (AV) de frutos maduros de Carica candamarcensis , en la liberación de Matriz metaloproteinasa 9 (MMP9) y la fosfor ilación de MAPK en neutrófilos. La capacidad antioxidante de estos extractos se evaluó por ensayo ABTS. En neutrófilos estimulados con diferentes diluciones de MT o AV se analizó la citotoxicidad, liberación de MMP9 y fosforilación de MAPK, mediante ensayo s de exclusión con azul de tripano, zimografía e inmunotransferencia, respectivamente. Ambos extractos muestran actividad antioxidante, siendo mayor en MT; ninguno presentó efecto citotóxico. Las diluciones 5% y 2,5% de MT redujeron significativamente la l iberación de MMP9, y todas disminuyeron la fosforilación de MAPK. El AV incrementó significativamente la liberación de MMP9 y la fosforilación de MAPK, el efecto fue mayor cuando se preestimularon con lipopolisacárido. El MT puede tener potencial antiinfla matorio, mientras que el AV podría tener un efecto "priming" que necesita ser corroborado.

Novelty in improvement of CAR T cell-based immunotherapy with the aid of CRISPR system

Abstract Introduction Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cells have tremendous potentials for cancer treatment; however, various challenges impede their universal use. These restrictions include the poor function of T cells in tumor microenvironments, the shortage of tumor-specific antigens and, finally, the high cost and time-consuming process, as well as the poor scalability of the method. Creative gene-editing tools have addressed each of these limitations and introduced next generation products for cell therapy. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated endonuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) system has triggered a revolution in biology fields, as it has a great capacity for genetic manipulation. Method In this review, we considered the latest development of CRISPR/Cas9 methods for the chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T)-based immunotherapy. Results The ability of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to generate the universal CAR T cells and also potent T cells that are persistent against exhaustion and inhibition was explored. Conclusion: We explained CRISPR delivery methods, as well as addressing safety concerns related to the use of the CRISPR/Cas9 system and their potential solutions.

Inhibition of the ITGB1 gene attenuates crystalline silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis via epithelial-mesenchymal transformation

Silicosis is a systemic disease caused by long-term exposure to high concentrations of free silica dust particles in the workplace. It is characterized by a persistent inflammatory response, fibroblast proliferation, and excessive collagen deposition, leading to pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. Epithelial interstitial transformation (EMT) can cause epithelial cells to lose their tight junctions, cell polarity, and epithelial properties, thereby enhancing the properties of interstitial cells, which can lead to the progression of fibrosis and the formation of scar tissue. Integrin 1 (ITGB1) is considered an important factor for promoting EMT and tumor invasion in a variety of tumors and also plays an important role in the progression of fibrotic diseases. Therefore, ITGB1 can be used as a potential target for the treatment of silicosis. In this study, we found that silica exposure induced epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in rats and that the expression of integrin ITGB1 was elevated along with the EMT. We used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to construct integrin ITGB1 knockdown cell lines for in vitro experiments. We compared the expression of the EMT key proteins E-cadherin and vimentin in the ITGB1 knockdown cells and wild-type cells simultaneously stimulated by silica and detected the aggregation point distribution of E-cadherin and vimentin in the cells using laser confocal microscopy. Our results showed that ITGB1 knockout inhibited the ITGB1/ILK/Snail signaling pathway and attenuated the EMT occurrence compared to control cells. These results suggested that ITGB1 is associated with silica-induced EMT and may be a potential target for the treatment of silicosis.

25-hydroxycholesterol aggravates oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation-induced pyroptosis through promoting activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in H9C2 cardiomyocytes

25-hydroxycholesterol (25-HC) plays a role in the regulation of cell survival and immunity. However, the effect of 25-HC on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury remains unknown. Our present study aimed to investigate whether 25-HC aggravated MI/R injury through NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. The overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in MI/R were identified from the GSE775, GSE45818, GSE58486, and GSE46395 datasets in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted using the database of Annotation, Visualization and Integration Discovery (DAVID). The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the overlapping DEGs was established using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database. These bioinformatics analyses indicated that cholesterol 25-hydroxylase (CH25H) was one of the crucial genes in MI/R injury. The oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) cell model was established to simulate MI/R injury. Western blot and RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that CH25H was significantly upregulated in OGD/R-stimulated H9C2 cardiomyocytes. Moreover, knockdown of CH25H inhibited the OGD/R-induced pyroptosis and nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, as demonstrated by cell counting kit-8 (CCK8), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), RT-qPCR, and western blotting assays. Conversely, 25-HC, which is synthesized by CH25H, promoted activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in OGD/R-stimulated H9C2 cardiomyocytes. In addition, the NLRP3 inhibitor BAY11-7082 attenuated 25-HC-induced H9C2 cell injury and pyroptosis under OGD/R condition. In conclusion, 25-HC could aggravate OGD/R-induced pyroptosis through promoting activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in H9C2 cells.

Asociación entre la depresión y variables sociodemográficas en el adulto mayor en el Perú / Association between Depression and Sociodemographic Variables in the Elderly in Peru / Associação entre depressão e variáveis sociodemográficas em idosos no Peru

en el artículo se analizan la depresión, variables sociodemográficas y su asociación entre ellas en adultos mayores en el Perú. Materiales y métodos: se usó un estudio transversal, descriptivo y correlacional a una submuestra de 5247 adultos mayores. Se emplearon los datos generados por la Encuesta Demográfica y de Salud (endes) del 2019, utilizando el instrumento de investigación: Patient Healtth Questionnarie (phq-9) de nueve preguntas y las variables sociodemográficas, incluidas en los cuestionarios de salud, características del hogar y la vivienda, de la endes 2019. Para el estudio estadístico se usó el modelo de regresión logística múltiple,para establecer si existía asociación entre depresión y variables sociode-mográficas. Resultados: los resultados señalan que el 15.3 % de las personas de 60 años a más presenta una depresión moderada, moderadamente severa y severa. Asimismo, se encontró que la depresión y las variables sociodemográficas (nivel de instrucción, diabetes, índice de riqueza, sexo y grupo etario) están relacionadas; sin embargo, no están relacionadas con las variables hábito de fumar, obesidad, tener pareja y lugar de residencia. Conclusiones: la depresión está relacionada con algunas variables sociodemográficas consideradas en este estudio. La depresión en adultos mayores se está convirtiendo en un significativo problema de salud pública, más frecuente en mujeres, edades avanzadas, áreas rurales, niveles socioe-conómicos bajos, menores niveles educativos, presión arterial, discapacidad y consumo problemático de alcohol; condiciones que deben tenerse en cuenta para la implementación de políticas públicas.

We analyzed depression, sociodemographic variables, and the association between them in older adults in Peru. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and correlational study was conducted, including 5,247 older adults. The data was extracted from the 2019 Demographic and Health Survey (endes) using the Patient Health Questionnaire (phq-9) of nine questions. The health questionnaires also included sociodemographic variables, household characteristics, and housing-related questions. A multiple logistic regression model was used to determine if there was an association between depression and sociodemographic variables. Results: Approximately 15.3% of older adults had a history of depression (moderate, moderately severe, and severe). We identified a relationship between depression and some sociodemographic variables (education level, diabetes, wealth index, sex, and age group). However, depres-sion was not related to smoking habits, obesity, having a partner, and place of residence. Conclusions: Depression was related to some of the sociodemographic variables considered in this study. Depression in older adults is becoming a significant public health problem, more frequent in women, advanced ages, rural areas, low socioeconomic levels, lower educational levels, blood pressure, disability, and problem-atic alcohol consumption. These conditions must be considered in the implementation of public policies

Introdução: no presente artigo analisa-se a depressão, variáveis sociodemográficas e a associação entre elas em idosos no Peru. Materiais e métodos: estudo transversal, descritivo e correlacional, com uma suba-mostra de 5247 idosos. Foram utilizados os dados gerados pela "Pesquisa Demográfica e de Saúde" (do espanhol endes) do ano de 2019, utilizando como instrumento de pesquisa o: Patient Health Questionnarie (phq-9) de nove questões e as variáveis sociodemográficas, incluídas nos questionários de saúde, domiciliar e características de moradia, do endes 2019. Para o estudo estatístico, foi utilizado o modelo de regres-são logística múltipla para verificar se havia associação entre depressão e variáveis sociodemográficas. Resultados: os resultados indicam que 15,3 por cento das pessoas com 60 anos ou mais apresentam um nível de depressão moderada, moderadamente grave e grave. Da mesma forma, verificou-se que a depressão e as variáveis sociodemográficas (escolaridade, diabetes, índice de riqueza, sexo e faixa etária) estão relacionadas; entretanto, não estão relacionados com as variáveis hábito de fumar, obesidade, ter companheiro e local de residência. Conclusões: a depressão está relacionada com algumas das variáveis sociodemográficas consideradas neste estudo. A depressão em idosos está se tornando um problema sig-nificativo de saúde pública, mais frequente em mulheres, idades avançadas, áreas rurais, níveis socioeco-nómicos baixos, níveis educacionais mais baixos, pressão arterial, deficiência e consumo problemático de álcool; condições que devem ser levadas em conta para a implementação de políticas públicas.

Effect of ANKRD49 on migration of human lung adenocarcinoma cells and its mechanism / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To study the effect of ankyrin repeat domain 49(ANKRD49)on the migration of human lung adenocarcinoma cell line NCI-H1299 and its mechanism.Methods NCI-H1299 cells were infected with lentivirus vector carrying ANKRD49 gene and shRNA targeting ANKRD49 to construct the cell models stably overexpressing and knocking down ANKRD49. Meanwhile,the control cell models infected with empty lentivirus vector and lentivirus vector with scramble sequences were constructed respectively. The expression levels of ANKRD49 mRNA and protein were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot. The effect of ANKRD49 on cell migration was measured by scratch test. The mRNA and protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-2/9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase(TIMP)-1/2 were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot. The protein expression levels of p65,p-p65,IκBα and p-IκBα were detected by Western blot.Results The levels of ANKRD49 mRNA and protein in the ANKRD49 overexpression group were significantly higher than those in the control group(t = 70. 02 and 45. 68,respectively,each P < 0. 001). Compared with the control group,the migration ability of cells in the ANKRD49 overexpression group significantly increased at 24 h and 48 h(t = 5. 343 and 3. 282,P = 0. 005 9 and 0. 030 4,respectively);The mRNA transcription levels and protein expression levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 significantly increased(t = 9. 304 and 6. 193,P =0. 000 7 and 0. 003 5,respectively),while the mRNA and protein expression of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 decreased significantly(t = 3. 858 and 3. 517,P = 0. 018 2 and 0. 024 5,respectively),and the values of MMP-2/TIMP-1 and MMP-9/TIMP-2 significantly increased(t = 17. 7 and 9. 682,P < 0. 001 and < 0. 01,respectively);The expression of p-p65 and pIκBα significantly increased,the total protein levels of p65 and IκBα showed no obvious change,and the values of p-p65/p65 and p-IκBα/IκBα significantly increased(t = 3. 962 and 5. 370,P = 0. 016 7 and 0. 005 8,respectively). However,knocking down of ANKRD49 presented the opposite results.Conclusion ANKRD49 promotes the migration of NCI-H1299cells by enhan-cing the expression of MMP-2/9,the values of MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 via activating NF-κB/p65 signa-ling pathway.

Research advances in the immunomodulatory mechanism of galectin-9 and its role in liver diseases / 临床肝胆病杂志

Galectin-9 （Gal-9） is a member of the galectin family that can specifically recognize and bind to galactosides. Recent studies have shown that Gal-9 is highly expressed in the liver and can help to maintain intrahepatic immune homeostasis and perform biological functions in various liver diseases. This article reviews the immunomodulatory functions of Gal-9 and its role in different liver diseases. Studies have shown that Gal-9 has important biological functions in different liver diseases through multiple pathways. Research on the specific immunomodulatory mechanisms and functions of Gal-9 may help to discover the therapeutic role of Gal-9 in liver diseases.

Expression of Gn protein of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus and its immunogenicity / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To express the Gn protein of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus(SFTSV) through adeno-associated virus 9(AAV9) expression system and evaluate its immunogenicity.Methods SFTSV Gn gene was inserted into viral vector pAAV-CMV-FH and the recombinant plasmid was transfected into HEK293T cells to obtain recombinant virus AAV9-Gn.The expression of Gn protein was determined by immunofluorescence and Western blot.Eighteen fernale BALB/c mice were randomly divided into three groups:Mock group(serum-free DMEM),AAV9-GFP group(1 × 10~(11) vg) and AAV9-Gn group(1 × 10~(11) vg),all of which were injected intramuscularly into the right hind limb at a dose of 100 μL per mouse.The body mass,diet,behavior and mental state of mice in each group were monitored continuously for 21 d,and the change rate of body mass was calculated;At 2,4,8 and 16 weeks after immunization,the levels of SFTSV neutralizing antibody in serum of mice in each group were detected by fluorescent reduction neutralization test(FRNT),and the levels of specific IgGl and IgG2a in serum of mice in AAV9-Gn group were detected by ELISA.Results After incubation with specific antibody,Vero cells transfected with AAV9-Gn showed specific green fluorescence under fluorescence microscope,and had specific binding to mouse anti-SFTSV Gn monoclonal antibody,and the specific binding bands were found at a relative molecular mass of about 61 000.The body mass of the three groups showed an increasing trend,there was no significant difference between the three groups(F=0.158—2.621,P> 0.05),and the diet,behavior and mental state were normal.At 2,4,8 and 16 weeks after immunization,the titer of SFTSV neutralizing antibody in serum of mice in AAV9-Gn group was significantly higher than that of Mock group and AAV9-GFP group(H=13.332—14.538,each P <0.001),and the titer peak appeared at 8 weeks;The level of specific IgG1 in serum of mice was significantly higher than that of IgG2a(F=4.373—12.975,each P <0.05) at different time points.Conclusion SFTSV Gn protein can be expressed correctly through AAV9 expression system,and has low toxicity to mice with good immunogenicity,which is expected to be a candidate component of SFTSV vaccine.

The predictive value of serum MMP-9 and sTREM-1 in postoperative urinary tract infection in patients with ureteral calculi / 国际检验医学杂志

Objective To investigate the predictive value of serum matrix metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9)and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1(sTREM-1)in postoperative urinary tract infec-tion(UTI)in patients with ureteral calculi.Methods Among the ureteral calculi patients admitted to the De-partment of Urology in a hospital from October 2021 to October 2022,68 patients with postoperative UTI(UTI group)and 68 patients without UTI(non-UTI group)were selected as the study objects.Serum MMP-9 and sTREM-1 levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Spearman method was used to analyze the correlation between serum MMP-9 and sTREM-1 levels and clinical data in UTI group,and the predictive value of serum MMP-9 and sTREM-1 levels in postoperative UTI in ureteral calculi patients was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curve.The influencing factors of postoperative UTI in ureter-al calculi patients were analyzed by multivariate Logistic regression.Results Compared with non-UTI group,serum MMP-9 and sTREM-1 levels in UTI group were significantly increased,with statistical significance(P＜0.05).Correlation analysis showed that serum MMP-9 and sTREM-1 levels were positively correlated in UTI group(r=0.585,P＜0.001).The combined prediction of the area under the curve(AUC)for postopera-tive UTI in ureteral calculi patients was 0.961(95％CI:0.934-0.988).The sensitivity and specificity were 73.36％and 85.68％,respectively.The AUC predicted by MMP-9 and sTREM-1 was higher than that predic-ted by MMP-9 and STREM-1 alone(Z=25.420,P＜0.001;Z=21.531,P＜0.001).The levels of MMP-9 and sTREM-1 were the influencing factors of postoperative UTI in ureteral calculi patients(P＜0.05).Conclusion The serum levels of MMP-9 and sTREM-1 in postoperative UTI in ureteral calculi patients are increased,and the detec-tion of both levels has important predictive value for the occurrence of postoperative UTI in ureteral calculi patients.

Regulatory Mechanism of Drug-Containing Serum of Jinghou Zengzhi Prescription on GDF9 Expression and Apoptosis of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Rats with Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation / 广州中医药大学学报

Objective To observe the regulatory mechanism of drug-containing serum of Jinghou Zengzhi Prescription based on qi and blood replenishing method on the expression of growth and differentiation factor 9(GDF9)and apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in rats with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation(COH).Methods Serum of COH rats(blank serum)and serum of COH rats gavaged by the Jinghou Zengzhi Prescription were prepared.A COH rat model was established and ovarian granulosa cells were collected.The experiment was divided into 5 groups:blank serum group,drug-containing serum group,drug-containing serum+SB203580[p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase(p38MAPK)inhibitor]group,drug-containing serum + PDTC[nuclear transcription factor κB(NF-κB)inhibitor]group,drug-containing serum + SB203580 + PDTC group.The mRNA expression levels of p38MAPK,casein kinase 2(CK2),nuclear transcription factor κB inhibitor α(IκBα),NF-κB and GDF9 were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),and GDF9 protein expression level was detected by Western Blot,and ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis was detected by terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling(TUNEL).Results The drug-containing serum of Jinghou Zengzhi Prescription decreased the mRNA expressions of p38MAPK and NF-κB,elevated the mRNA expressions of CK2 and IκBα,increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of GDF9,and decreased the apoptosis rate of ovarian granulosa cells in COH rats.The addition of p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 alone and the addition of NF-κB inhibitor PDTC alone both promoted the mRNA and protein expressions of GDF9 and reduced the apoptosis rate of granulosa cells.Conclusion The drug-containing serum of Jinghou Zengzhi Prescription based on qi and blood replenishing method can promote the expression of GDF9 and inhibit the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in rats with COH,and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of the expression of genes of the dual signaling pathways of p38MAPK and NF-κB.

Clinical Observation on the Effect of Postmenstrual Proliferative Prescription Through Replenishing Qiand Blood on Ovulation Induction in Patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome / 广州中医药大学学报

Objective To observe the effects of Postmenstrual Proliferative Prescription(mainly composed of Codonopsis Radix,Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma,Poria,Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata,Paeoniae Radix Alba,Angelicae Sinensis Radix,Chuanxiong Rhizoma,Cervi Cornu Degelatinatum,Corni Fructus,Cuscutae Semen,and Eucommiae Cortex)through replenishing qi and blood on the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in patients with ovulatory dysfunction infertility caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome(PCOS)during ovulation-induction treatment,and to explore the therapeutic effects and possible therapeutic mechanism.Methods Sixty patients with ovulatory dysfunction infertility due to PCOS were randomly divided into a treatment group and a control group,with 30 patients in each group.The control group was given Clomifene Citrate Capsules to promote ovulation,and the treatment group was given Postmenstrual Proliferative Prescription on the basis of the ovulation-induction program of the control group starting from the fifth day of menstruation or progesterone withdrawal bleeding.The two groups were treated for one menstrual cycle as a course of treatment.The changes in the serum sex hormones of estradiol(E2),follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH),luteinizing hormone(LH),and progesterone(P)on the 2nd to 5th day of menstruation,as well as the changes in serum growth differentiation factor 9(GDF9)and bone morphogenetic protein 15(BMP15)levels on the 2nd to 5th day of menstruation and on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection were observed in the two groups.Moreover,the ovulation rate,pregnancy rate and clinical efficacy of the patients in the two groups were analyzed.Results(1)No statistically significant differences in serum levels of sex hormones E2,FSH,LH and P on the 2nd to 5th day of menstruation were shown between the two groups of patients(P＞0.05).(2)On the 2nd to 5th day of menstruation and on the day of HCG injection,there were no significant differences in the serum GDF9 and BMP15 levels between the two groups(P＞0.05).(3)The ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in the treatment group were 93.33%(28/30)and 26.67%(8/30)respectively,which were significantly higher than 70.00%(21/30)and 13.33%(4/30)in the control group.And the differences tested by chi-square test were statistically significant between the two groups(P＜0.05).(4)The total effective rate of the treatment group was 93.33%(28/30),and that of the control group was 70.00%(21/30).The intergroup comparison(tested by rank sum test)showed that the therapeutic efficacy of the treatment group was significantly superior to that of the control group,and the difference was statistically significant(P＜0.05).Conclusion Postmenstrual Proliferative Prescription through replenishing qi and blood can improve the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate during ovulation-induction treatment in the patients with ovulatory dysfunction infertility due to PCOS.It is indicated that Postmenstrual Proliferative Prescription can enhance the quality of the oocytes and the potential of embryo implantation during the ovulation-induction treatment.

Clinical Observation on Acupuncture Combined with Rehabilitation Training in Treating Patients with Qi Deficiency and Blood Stasis Type of Hypertensive Cerebral Hemorrhage in the Recovery Period / 广州中医药大学学报

Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training in treating qi deficiency and blood stasis type of hypertensive cerebral hemorrhage in the recovery stage.Methods A total of 132 patients with qi deficiency and blood stasis type of hypertensive cerebral hemorrhage in the recovery period were randomly divided into observation group and control group,with 66 cases in each group,the control group was given western medicine conventional treatment combined with rehabilitation training,and the observation group was treated with acupuncture on the basis of the control group.Both groups of patients were treated for 12 consecutive weeks.After 12 weeks of treatment,the clinical efficacy of the two groups was evaluated.The changes of simplified Fugl-Meyer Assessment(FMA),National Institutes of Health Neurological Impairment Scale(NIHSS),and traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)syndrome scores,as well as the changes of serum interleukin 6(IL-6),homocysteine(Hcy),and endothelin 1(ET-1),serum matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP-9),and brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF)levels were observed before and after the treatment of the patients in the two groups.The changes of serum serine-threonine protein kinase(AKT),phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase(PI3K),and Bcl-2-related X protein(bax)levels were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.Results(1)After treatment,the serum IL-6,Hcy,ET-1 levels of patients in the two groups were significantly improved(P＜0.05),and the observation group was significantly superior to the control group in improving the serum IL-6,Hcy,ET-1 levels,and the difference was statistically significant(P＜0.05).(2)After treatment,the serum MMP-9 and BDNF levels of patients in the two groups were significantly improved(P＜0.05),and the observation group was significantly superior to the control group in improving serum MMP-9 and BDNF levels,with statistically significant differences(P＜0.05).(3)After treatment,the serum AKT,PI3K,bax levels of patients in the two groups were significantly improved(P＜0.05),and the observation group was significantly superior to the control group in improving serum AKT,PI3K,bax levels,and the difference was statistically significant(P＜0.05).(4)After treatment,the FMA score,TCM syndrome scores,and NIHSS score of patients in the two groups were significantly improved(P＜0.05),and the observation group was significantly superior to the control group in improving the FMA score,TCM syndrome scores,and NIHSS score,and the differences were statistically significant(P＜0.05).(5)The total effective rate was 93.34%(62/66)in the observation group and 81.82%(54/66)in the control group.The efficacy of the observation group was superior to that of the control group,and the difference was statistically significant(P＜0.05).Conclusion Acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training for the treatment of patients recovering from hypertensive cerebral hemorrhage of qi deficiency and blood stasis type can significantly reduce the patient's inflammatory response,regulate the level of neurofactors,inhibit neuronal apoptosis,and promote the recovery of neurological function,and the clinical efficacy is remarkable.

Association between index-ring finger length ratio and polymorphisms of 6 phalange-bone development related genes / 解剖学报

Objective To investigate the association of 13 single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP)sites in 6 phalange-bone development related genes[fibroblast growth factor receptor 2(FGFR2),indian hedgehog signaling molecule(IHH),Msh homeobox 1(MSX1),Runx family transcription factor 2(RUNX2),SRY-box transcription factor 9(SOX9),Wnt family member 5A(WNT5A)]with human index-ring finger length ratio(2D∶4D).Methods Digital cameras were used to take frontal photographs of the hands of 731 college students(358 males and 373 females)in Ningxia,and image analysis software was used to mark anatomical points and measure finger lengths of index(2th)and ring(4th);genotyping of 13 SNP sites(rs1047057,rs755793,rs41258305,rs3731881,rs3100776,rs12532,rs3821949,rs45585135,rs3749863,rs1042667,rs12601701,rs1829556,rs3732750)for 6 genes by multiplex PCR;One-Way ANOVA or independent sample t-test indirectly assessed the association between 2D∶4D and 13 SNP sites.Results Both left and right hand 2D∶4D were significantly higher in females than males in Ningxia college students(all P<0.01);no statistically significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies of the 13 SNP sites among different sexes(all P>0.05);among different sexes,male left hand 2D∶4D was significantly associated with the genotype of SOX9 gene rs12601701 site(P<0.05)and right hand 2D∶4D was significantly associated with the genotype of WNT5A gene rs1829556 site(P<0.05);the female right hand 2D∶4D was significantly associated with the MSX1 gene rs12532(P<0.01)and rs3821949(P<0.05)sites genotypes.Conclusion SOX9(rs12601701),WNT5A(rs1829556)and MSX1(rs12532 and rs3821949)gene polymorphisms may be associated with the formation of 2D∶4D in Ningxia population.

Analysis of recognition sites and application for commercial and homemade antibodies to aquaporin 9 / 解剖学报

Objective To analyze the antigen recognition sites of commercial and homemade antibodies against aquaporin(AQP)9,and to identify the application effect.Methods Western blotting was used to compare the efficacy of three commercial antibodies and self-made antibody in identifying AQP9 genotypes.The antigen recognition sites of four antibodies and their specificities in practical applications were analyzed.Results Western blotting showed that protein bands of three commercial antibodies were detected in both WT and Aqp9-/-mice.The keyhole limpet hemocyanin(KLH)conjugated synthetic peptides corresponding to the three commercial antibodies were derived from rat,human and human,respectively.And The sequences of these three synthetic peptides were different from those of mice.AQP3/7 and AQP9 have similar molecular weight and were expressed in the liver with high homology.An obvious band of self-made antibody was observed at the 27 kD position in WT mice,but no band was observed at the corresponding position in Aqp9-/-mice.Conclusion Commercial antibodies 1 and 3 can be used to assist in the identification of genotypes in Aqp9-/-mice.Homemade antibodies can accurately identify genotypes at the protein level.

Expression of bone morphogenetic protein 9 in patients with sepsis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome and its role in early recognition and prognosis prediction of disease / 中华急诊医学杂志

Objective:To observe the expression level of bone morphogenetic protein 9 (bone morphogenetic protein 9,BMP9) in patients with sepsis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (acute respiratory distress syndrome,ARDS), and to explore the role of BMP9 in early recognition and prognosis prediction of sepsis-associated ARDS.Methods:From May 2022 to May 2023, total of 56 patients with sepsis-associated ARDS in Shanxi Bethune Hospital were selected as the ARDS group, 49 patients with cardiogenic pulmonary edema as the case control group, and 46 adults who underwent physical examination in the physical examination center of our hospital as the healthy control group.The patients in the ARDS group were followed up for 28 days and divided into survival group ( n = 26) and death group ( n = 30). The expression level of serum BMP9 and its correlation with clinical indicators in each group were analyzed and compared. The risk factors of sepsis-associated ARDS were analyzed by Logistic regression, and the diagnostic efficacy and prognostic value of related indicators were analyzed. Results:The serum level of BMP9 in sepsis-associated ARDS group [1401.14 (856.59,1982.86) ]pg/mL was significantly higher than that in case control group (438.26±128.52) pg/mL and healthy control group (398.96±96.55)pg/mL, the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.01). In addition, BMP9 expression significantly correlated with procalcitonin, lymphocyte count and SOFA score ( P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that BMP9 was a high risk factor for the development of sepsis-associated ARDS ( P<0.01). The area under the ROC curve (area under the ROC curve,AUC) of BMP9 to predict the occurrence of sepsis-associated ARDS was 0.930. The specificity was 100.0% and the sensitivity was 80.4%, which was significantly higher than the specificity (89.8%) and sensitivity (67.9%) of the oxygenation index. Follow-up and comparison of BMP9 levels in patients with different prognosis of sepsis-associated ARDS showed that the expression level of BMP9 in the death group was higher than that in the survival group, and the difference was statistically significant ( P < 0.05). The ROC curve of BMP9 in predicting the prognosis of patients with sepsis-associated ARDS. The area under the ROC curve was 0.699, the sensitivity was 43.3%, and the specificity was 100.0%. Conclusions:The expression of BMP9 in sepsis-associated ARDS patients significantly increased, and its high expression was significantly correlated with inflammatory markers such as procalcitonin, lymphocyte count and SOFA score. BMP9 is an independent risk factor in patients with sepsis-associated ARDS, and it is promising as a new biomarker for early identification of sepsis-associated ARDS. However, it do not show a good predictive effect on the prognosis of the disease.

The Predictive Value of MMP-9 the and NLR Values for Bleeding Transformation after the Revascularization in Acute Ischemic Stroke / 昆明医科大学学报

Objective To study the correlation between the changes of matrix metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9)and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio(NLR)before and after the revascularization of acute ischemic stroke(AIS),so as to find biomarkers to predict the bleeding transformation risk of AIS patients.Methods From February 2022 to December 2022,161 patients admitted to the Stroke Center of Qujing Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University with AIS werre divided in to the hemorrhagic transformation group and the non-hemorrhagic transfor-mation groupand treated with revascularization(intravenous thrombolysis,endovascular treatment,combined the intravenous thrombolysis with endovascular treatment).Among them,there were 46 cases in the hemorrhagic transformation group and 115 cases in the non hemorrhagic transformation group.And the general data,NLR value and MMP-9 before and after the revascularization were compared between the two groups.Results There was no statistical difference in general data between the two groups(all P>0.05)except for C-reactive protein in hemorrhagic transformation group and in non-hemorrhagic transformation group(P<0.001).The white blood cells,neutrophils,neutrophil percentage,neutrophil absolute value,lymphocyte absolute value,NLR and MMP-9 value in hemorrhagic transformation group were significantly higher than those in non-hemorrhagic transformation group before the treatment and there was a statistical significance(P<0.05).After revascularization,the indexes of blood routine and MMP-9 were significantly higher than those before the revascularization,and the increase in hemorrhagic transformation group was more obvious than that in non-hemorrhagic transformation group and there was a statistical significance(P<0.001),The ROC curve showed that the area under the curve(AUC)of NLR and MMP-9 predicting bleeding transformation after AIS revascularization were 0.74 and 0.90.Conclusion NLR,MMP-9 are associated with the risk of bleeding transformation in AIS patients after the revascularization and can they can be used as the predictive factors for bleeding transformation risk.

Predictive Value of Peripheral Blood Septin9 Gene Methylation Assay in Colorectal Adenoma / 昆明医科大学学报

Objective To investigate the predictive significance of Septin9 gene methylation(mSEPT9)in peripheral blood in the diagnosis of colorectal adenoma.Methods A total of 52 subjects were included,31 patients with colorectal adenomas were collected as the experimental group in the Department of Pathology and 21 subjects with negative colonoscopy in the gastroenterology outpatient clinic were used as the control group from October 2020 to May 2022.mSEPT9 was detected in the two groups,and the results of CEA level in peripheral blood were collected.All the results were statistically analyzed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic(ROC).Results The area under the curve(area of the ROC:AUC)of mSEPT9detectionto predict the development of adenoma was 0.7205(P<0.05),And the cut-off value(CT value)was 39.55,the corresponding sensitivity was 90.91%and the specificity was 56.67%.The AUC of CEA detection for predicting adenoma was 0.5333(P>0.05).Conclusions The detection of mSEPT9 is better than that of CEA tumor marker detection in peripheral blood for screening colorectal adenomas with good sensitivity and relative specificity.Invasive colonoscopy for people with positive mSEPT9 screening results can be easier to accept by the general population.