Construction of an immune predictive model and identification of TRIP6 as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target of CRC by integration of single-cell and bulk RNA-seq data.

BACKGROUND: Investigations elucidating the complex immunological mechanisms involved in colorectal cancer (CRC) and accurately predicting patient outcomes via bulk RNA-Seq analysis have been notably limited. This study aimed to identify the immune status of CRC patients, construct a prognostic model, and identify prognostic signatures via bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq). METHODS: The scRNA-seq data of CRC were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The UCSC Xena database was used to obtain bulk RNA-seq data. Differentially expressed gene (DEG), functional enrichment, and random forest analyses were conducted in order to identify core genes associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) that were relevant to prognosis. A molecular immune prediction model was developed using logistic regression after screening features using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). The differences in immune cell infiltration, mutation, chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity, cellular senescence, and communication between patients who were at high and low risk of CRC according to the predictive model were investigated. The prognostic genes that were closely associated with CRC were identified by random survival forest (RSF) analysis. The expression levels and clinical significance of the hub genes were analyzed in vitro. The LoVo cell line was employed to ascertain the biological role of thyroid hormone receptor-interacting protein 6 (TRIP6). RESULTS: A total of seven main cell subtypes were identified by scRNA-seq analysis. A molecular immune predictive model was constructed based on the risk scores. The risk score was significantly associated with OS, stage, mutation burden, immune cell infiltration, response to immunotherapy, key pathways, and cell-cell communication. The functions of the six hub genes were determined and further utilized to establish a regulatory network. Our findings unequivocally confirmed that TRIP6 upregulation was verified in the CRC samples. After knocking down TRIP6, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of LoVo cells were inhibited, and apoptosis was promoted. CONCLUSIONS: The molecular predictive model reliably distinguished the immune status of CRC patients. We further revealed that TRIP6 may act as an oncogene in CRC, making it a promising candidate for targeted therapy and as a prognostic marker for CRC.

LncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression promoted GPX4-mediated ferroptosis to suppress radioresistance in colorectal cancer

Background Radiotherapy is widely employed in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment but is often compromised by developed radioresistance. This study explored the mechanism of long non-coding RNA ovarian tumor domain containing 6B-antisense RNA1 (lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1) in CRC radioresistance through tripartite motif 16 (TRIM16). Methods CRC and non-cancerous tissues were collected and radioresistant CRC cells were established, with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction to determine gene expression in tissues and cells. Radioresistance was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 assay and immunofluorescence (γ-H2AX) and ferroptosis was tested by Western blot assay (ACSL4/GPX4) and assay kits (Fe2+/ROS/MDA/GSH). The association between ferroptosis and lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1-inhibited radioresistance was testified using ferroptosis inhibitor. The subcellular localization of lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 was tested by the nuclear/cytoplasmic fractionation assay, with RNA immunoprecipitation assay to validate gene interactions. Rescue experiments were conducted to analyze the role of TRIM16 in CRC radioresistance. Results LncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 and TRIM16 were poorly expressed (P < 0.01) in CRC tissues and cells and further decreased (P < 0.01) in radioresistant CRC cells. OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression decreased cell survival (P < 0.01), increased γ-H2AX levels (P < 0.01), and elevated ferroptosis and oxidative stress (P < 0.01) after X-ray radiation. Ferroptosis inhibitor attenuated radioresistance (P < 0.01) caused by lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression. LncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 stabilized TRIM16 mRNA via binding to HuR. TRIM16 knockdown reduced ferroptosis and increased radioresistance (P < 0.05). Conclusion OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression stabilized TRIM16 via binding to HuR and increased GPX4-mediated ferroptosis, thus attenuating CRC radioresistance. Our study provided a new rationale for the treatment of CRC (AU)

Efficacy and Safety of Butylphthalide in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: DL-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) is a drug for treating acute ischemic stroke and may play a neuroprotective role by acting on multiple active targets. The efficacy of NBP in patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving reperfusion therapy remains unknown. Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of NBP in patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving reperfusion therapy of intravenous thrombolysis and/or endovascular treatment. Design, Setting, and Participants: This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted in 59 centers in China with 90-day follow-up. Of 1236 patients with acute ischemic stroke, 1216 patients 18 years and older diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ranging from 4 to 25 who could start the trial drug within 6 hours from symptom onset and received either intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) or endovascular treatment or intravenous rt-PA bridging to endovascular treatment were enrolled, after excluding 20 patients who declined to participate or did not meet eligibility criteria. Data were collected from July 1, 2018, to May 22, 2022. Interventions: Within 6 hours after symptom onset, patients were randomized to receive NBP or placebo in a 1:1 ratio. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of patients with a favorable outcome based on 90-day modified Rankin Scale score (a global stroke disability scale ranging from 0 [no symptoms or completely recovered] to 6 [death]) thresholds of 0 to 2 points, depending on baseline stroke severity. Results: Of 1216 enrolled patients, 827 (68.0%) were men, and the median (IQR) age was 66 (56-72) years. A total of 607 were randomly assigned to the butylphthalide group and 609 to the placebo group. A favorable functional outcome at 90 days occurred in 344 patients (56.7%) in the butylphthalide group and 268 patients (44.0%) in the placebo group (odds ratio, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.35-2.14; P < .001). Serious adverse events within 90 days occurred in 61 patients (10.1%) in the butylphthalide group and 73 patients (12.0%) in the placebo group. Conclusions and Relevance: Among patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving intravenous thrombolysis and/or endovascular treatment, NBP was associated with a higher proportion of patients achieving a favorable functional outcome at 90 days compared with placebo. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03539445.

m6A­mediated LINC02038 inhibits colorectal cancer progression via regulation of the FAM172A/PI3K/AKT pathway via competitive binding with miR­552­5p.

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a type of regulatory molecule with potential roles in the development of several different malignancies. However, the underlying mechanisms of lncRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC) are incompletely understood. The present study investigated the molecular mechanism of LINC02038 in CRC. LINC02038 expression was decreased in CRC tissues compared to the para­cancerous tissues and LINC02038 overexpression markedly reduced the proliferation, vitality, migration and invasive ability and greatly accelerated apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells. Bioinformatics examination indicated that LINC02038 may have targeted microRNA (miR)­552­5p. RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays showed that LINC02038 served as a sponge for miR­552­5p, hindering target gene FAM172A of miR­552­5p degradation. Moreover, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP)­qualitative PCR assays revealed that YTHDF2 could identify and regulate the METTL3­mediated LINC02038 N6­methyladenosine (m6A) modification and increase its degradation, thereby promoting CRC progression via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Based on the CRC clinical specimens, it was shown that LINC02038 was negatively associated with lymphatic metastasis and distant metastasis. These results revealed that m6A/LINC02038/miR­552­5p/FAM172A may be a novel anti­tumor axis and LINC02038 may serve as a biomarker and treatment option for colorectal cancer.

LncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression promoted GPX4-mediated ferroptosis to suppress radioresistance in colorectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Radiotherapy is widely employed in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment but is often compromised by developed radioresistance. This study explored the mechanism of long non-coding RNA ovarian tumor domain containing 6B-antisense RNA1 (lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1) in CRC radioresistance through tripartite motif 16 (TRIM16). METHODS: CRC and non-cancerous tissues were collected and radioresistant CRC cells were established, with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction to determine gene expression in tissues and cells. Radioresistance was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 assay and immunofluorescence (γ-H2AX) and ferroptosis was tested by Western blot assay (ACSL4/GPX4) and assay kits (Fe2+/ROS/MDA/GSH). The association between ferroptosis and lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1-inhibited radioresistance was testified using ferroptosis inhibitor. The subcellular localization of lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 was tested by the nuclear/cytoplasmic fractionation assay, with RNA immunoprecipitation assay to validate gene interactions. Rescue experiments were conducted to analyze the role of TRIM16 in CRC radioresistance. RESULTS: LncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 and TRIM16 were poorly expressed (P < 0.01) in CRC tissues and cells and further decreased (P < 0.01) in radioresistant CRC cells. OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression decreased cell survival (P < 0.01), increased γ-H2AX levels (P < 0.01), and elevated ferroptosis and oxidative stress (P < 0.01) after X-ray radiation. Ferroptosis inhibitor attenuated radioresistance (P < 0.01) caused by lncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression. LncRNA OTUD6B-AS1 stabilized TRIM16 mRNA via binding to HuR. TRIM16 knockdown reduced ferroptosis and increased radioresistance (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: OTUD6B-AS1 overexpression stabilized TRIM16 via binding to HuR and increased GPX4-mediated ferroptosis, thus attenuating CRC radioresistance. Our study provided a new rationale for the treatment of CRC.

Identification and validation of a new pyroptosis-associated lncRNA signature to predict survival outcomes, immunological responses and drug sensitivity in patients with gastric cancer.

BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer (GC) ranks fifth in prevalence among carcinomas worldwide. Both pyroptosis and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in the occurrence and development of gastric cancer. Therefore, we aimed to construct a pyroptosis-associated lncRNA model to predict the outcomes of patients with gastric cancer. METHODS: Pyroptosis-associated lncRNAs were identified through co-expression analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). Prognostic values were tested through principal component analysis, a predictive nomogram, functional analysis and Kaplan‒Meier analysis. Finally, immunotherapy and drug susceptibility predictions and hub lncRNA validation were performed. RESULTS: Using the risk model, GC individuals were classified into two groups: low-risk and high-risk groups. The prognostic signature could distinguish the different risk groups based on principal component analysis. The area under the curve and the conformance index suggested that this risk model was capable of correctly predicting GC patient outcomes. The predicted incidences of the one-, three-, and five-year overall survivals exhibited perfect conformance. Distinct changes in immunological markers were noted between the two risk groups. Finally, greater levels of appropriate chemotherapies were required in the high-risk group. AC005332.1, AC009812.4 and AP000695.1 levels were significantly increased in gastric tumor tissue compared with normal tissue. CONCLUSIONS: We created a predictive model based on 10 pyroptosis-associated lncRNAs that could accurately predict the outcomes of GC patients and provide a promising treatment option in the future.

Immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy in the treatment for rare primary mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the liver: a case report.

Primary mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the liver (PMCL) is rare in the hepatic system, with no standard treatment and poor prognosis with a median overall survival of only 120 days. PMCL with immunotherapy has not been reported yet. Here, we present a case of PMCL treated by immunotherapy and chemotherapy. A 64-year-old male with PMCL underwent partial right hepatectomy and liver lesion resection on 19 June 2020. Two months later, the chest computed tomography indicated the presence of multiple nodules in both lungs with higher tumor markers. Considering the presence of a tumor metastasis, the patient received four courses of immunotherapy plus mGEMOX chemotherapy from 8 September 2020. The patient tolerated the combined therapy well, with red moles on the face and chest which were considered as grade 1 reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation. He also had grade 2 thrombocytopenia and leucopenia after the first course of chemotherapy, but no neutropenia, fatigue, vomiting or diarrhea. However, his disease progressed. The patient refused further treatment and died on 20 April 2021. The overall survival time after diagnosis was 301 days. We describe here the first case report on immunotherapy treatment for PMCL. That suggested immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy may be an option after a hepatic lobectomy for PMCL.

M6A Promotes Colorectal Cancer Progression via Regulating the miR-27a-3p/BTG2 Pathway.

Long noncoding (lnc) RNAs regulate cancer progression. However, the importance of lncRNAs and how they are regulated in colorectal cancer (CRC) are unclear. We aim to evaluate the function of lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS2 in CRC and its fundamental mechanism. Levels of ADAMTS9-AS2, miR-27a-3p, and B-cell translocation gene 2 (BTG2) were measured by qPCR. Cell viability was analyzed by CCK-8 and colony formation. Migration and invasion were tested by transwell assay. The interactions among ADAMTS9-AS2, miR-27a-3p, BTG2, and YTHDF2 were analyzed by luciferase test, immunoblotting, RNA pull-down, or RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). An animal model was adopted to assess ADAMTS9-AS2's function. Overexpressing ADAMTS9-AS2 inhibited cell migration, invasion, colony formation capacity, and proliferation in vitro. The direct targeting of miR-27a-3p by ADAMTS9-AS2 abrogated the latter's effect in CRC cells. BTG2 was identified a target of miR-27a-3p, and silencing BTG2 weakened miR-27a-3p's effect. Knocking down ADAMTS9-AS2 abolished sh-YTHDF2's inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and invasion. Finally, overexpressing ADAMTS9-AS2 restrained xenograft growth. M6A reader YTHDF2-mediated degradation of ADAMTS9-AS2 promotes colon carcinogenesis via miR-27a-3p/BTG2 axis.

DPEP1 promotes drug resistance in colon cancer cells by forming a positive feedback loop with ASCL2.

BACKGROUND: Drug resistance is an important factor affecting the efficacy of chemotherapy in patients with colon cancer. However, clinical markers for diagnosing drug resistance of tumor cells are not only a few in number, but also low in specificity, and the mechanism of action of tumor cell drug resistance remains unclear. METHODS: Dipeptidase 1 (DPEP1) expression was analyzed using the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) and genotype-Tissue Expression pan-cancer data. Survival analysis was performed using the survival package in R software to assess the prognostic value of DPEP1 expression in colon cancer. Correlation and Venn analyses were adopted to identify key genes. Immunohistochemistry, western blot, qRT-PCR, Co-immunoprecipitation, and dual-luciferase reporter experiments were carried out to explore the underlying associations between DPEP1 and Achaete scute-like 2 (ASCL2). MTT assays were used to evaluate the role of DPEP1 and ASCL2 in colon cancer drug resistance. RESULTS: DPEP1 was highly expressed in colon cancer tissues. DPEP1 expression correlated negatively with disease-specific survival but not with overall survival. Bioinformatics analysis and experiments showed that the expressions of DPEP1 and ASCL2 in colon cancer tissues were markedly positively correlated. Mechanistic research indicated that DPEP1 enhanced the stability of protein ASCL2 by inhibiting its ubiquitination-mediated degradation. In turn, ASCL2 functioned as a transcription factor to activate the transcriptional activity of the DPEP1 gene and boost its expression. Furthermore, DPEP1 also could enhance the expression of colon cancer stem cell markers (LGR5, CD133, and CD44), which strengthened the tolerance of colon cancer cells to chemotherapy drugs. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings reveal that the DPEP1 enhances the stemness of tumor cells by forming a positive feedback loop with ASCL2 to improve resistance to chemotherapy drugs.

Let-7b-5p inhibits colon cancer progression by prohibiting APC ubiquitination degradation and the Wnt pathway by targeting NKD1.

Naked cuticle homolog 1 (NKD1), which is expressed at low levels in many tumors, is considered an inhibitor of the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway, but it is highly expressed in colon cancer and can promote colon cancer cell proliferation. miRNAs are involved in the occurrence and progression of many tumors. However, miRNAs that can regulate NKD1 and the mechanisms by which NKD1 regulates tumor progression remain ambiguous. This research aims to reveal the potential regulatory network of NKD1 in colon cancer. miRNA data downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases were analyzed by bioinformatics to screen for potential miRNAs targeting NKD1. Let-7b-5p was found to inhibit proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells targeting NKD1. Further studies suggested that let-7b-5p can modulate Wnt signaling activity, and the nuclear accumulation of ß-catenin was significantly restrained by let-7b-5p through targeting NKD1. Moreover, NKD1 could prohibit the expression of the APC protein. Further studies manifested that NKD1 bound to APC and promoted the ubiquitination degradation of APC through restraining the expression of the deubiquitinating enzyme USP15 and blocking the combination between USP15 and APC. Functionally, NKD1 enhanced the proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells by inhibiting APC expression. This research revealed a novel mechanism by which the let-7b-5p-NKD1-APC-ß-catenin signaling pathway inhibited colon cancer cell progression.

Construction and validation of an immune-related genes prognostic index (IRGPI) model in colon cancer.

Background: Though immunotherapy has become one of the standard therapies for colon cancer, the overall effective rate of immunotherapy is very low. Constructing an immune-related genes prognostic index (IRGPI) model may help to predict the response to immunotherapy and clinical outcomes. Methods: Differentially expressed immune-related genes (DEIRGs) between normal tissues and colon cancer tissues were identified and used to construct the co-expression network. Genes in the module with the most significant differences were further analyzed. Independent prognostic immune-related genes (IRGs) were identified by univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis. Independent prognostic IRGs were used to construct the IRGPI model using the multivariate cox proportional hazards regression model, and the IRGPI model was validated by independent dataset. ROC curves were plotted and AUCs were calculated to estimate the predictive power of the IRGPI model to prognosis. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to screen the enriched KEGG pathways in the high-risk and low-risk phenotype. Correlations between IRGPI and clinical characteristic, immune checkpoint expression, TMB, immune cell infiltration, immune function, immune dysfunction, immune exclusion, immune subtype were analyzed. Results: Totally 680 DEIRGs were identified. Three independent IRGs,NR5A2, PPARGC1A and LGALS4, were independently related to survival. NR5A2, PPARGC1A and LGALS4 were used to establish the IRGPI model. Survival analysis showed that patients with high-risk showed worse survival than patients in the low-risk group. The AUC of the IRGPI model for 1-year, 3-year and 5-year were 0.584, 0.608 and 0.697, respectively. Univariate analysis and multivariate cox regression analysis indicated that IRGPI were independent prognostic factors for survival. Stratified survival analysis showed that patients with IRGPI low-risk and low TMB had the best survival, which suggested that combination of TMB and IRGPI can better predict clinical outcome. Immune cell infiltration, immune function, immune checkpoint expression and immune exclusion were different between IRGPI high-risk and low-risk patients. Conclusion: An immune-related genes prognostic index (IRGPI) was constructed and validated in the current study and the IRGPI maybe a potential biomarker for evaluating response to immunotherapy and clinical outcome for colon cancer patients.

Identification and validation of a novel cellular senescence-related lncRNA prognostic signature for predicting immunotherapy response in stomach adenocarcinoma.

Background: Cellular senescence is a novel hallmark of cancer associated with patient outcomes and tumor immunotherapy. However, the value of cellular senescence-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response for stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) patients needs further investigation. Methods: The transcriptome and corresponding clinical information of STAD and cellular senescence-related genes were, respectively, downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and CellAge databases. Differential expression analysis and coexpression analysis were performed to obtain cellular senescence-related lncRNAs. Univariate regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox analysis were conducted to establish the cellular senescence-related lncRNA prognostic signature (CSLPS). Next, the survival curve, ROC curve, and nomogram were developed to assess the capacity of predictive models. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA), gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), and tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) score analysis were performed between high- and low-risk groups. Results: A novel CSLPS involving fifteen lncRNAs (REPIN1-AS1, AL355574.1, AC104695.3, AL033527.2, AC083902.1, TYMSOS, LINC00460, AC005165.1, AL136115.1, AC007405.2, AL391152.1, SCAT1, AC129507.1, AL121748.1, and ADAMTS9-AS1) was developed. According to the nomogram, the risk model based on the CSLPS was an independent prognostic factor and could predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival for STAD patients. GSEA suggested that the high-risk group was mainly associated with Toll-like receptor, JAK/STAT, NOD-like receptor, and chemokine signaling pathways. Further analysis revealed that STAD patients in the low-risk group with better clinical outcomes had a higher TMB, higher proportion of high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), better immune infiltration, and lower TIDE scores. Conclusion: A fifteen-CSlncRNA prognostic signature could predict survival outcomes, and patients in the low-risk group may be more sensitive to immunotherapy.

A comprehensive analysis and validation of cuproptosis-associated genes across cancers: Overall survival, the tumor microenvironment, stemness scores, and drug sensitivity.

Background: Cuproptosis is a novel type of cell death induced by copper. Cuproptosis-associated genes play a crucial part in oncogenesis and the growth and metastasis of tumors. However, the correlations among cuproptosis-associated genes, overall survival, the tumor microenvironment, and drug sensitivity remain unclear. Therefore, we performed an analysis of cuproptosis-associated genes across cancers. Methods: We downloaded RNA sequence expression data, clinical and survival data, stemness score data, and immune subtype data of cuproptosis-associated genes from the UCSC Xena. Next, we conducted differential analysis, expression analysis and correlation analysis across cancers with various R packages. Moreover, survival analysis and Cox hazard analysis were conducted to investigate the relationships between cuproptosis-associated genes and survival outcomes in various cancer types. Finally, we also analyzed the relationship among the levels of cuproptosis-associated genes across cancers, immune types, the tumor microenvironment, stemness scores, and drug sensitivity. Expression validation of cuproptosis-associated genes in renal cancer and normal tissues by immunohistochemical staining. Results: We found that 10 cuproptosis-associated genes (FDX1, LIAS, LIPT1, DLD, DLAT, PDHA1, PDHB, MTF1, GLS, and CDKN2A) were differently expressed in 18 tumors and normal tissues. Survival outcomes showed that cuproptosis-associated genes had prognostic value in various cancer types. Moreover, we identified that cuproptosis-associated genes had different levels in six immune subtypes. The study also indicated that the levels of most cuproptosis-associated genes were positively correlated with the RNAss and DNAss. FDX1, LIAS, LIPT1, DLD, DLAT, PDHA1, and PDHB were negatively correlated with immune scores and ESTIMATE scores. In addition, we identified the top 16 drugs strongly sensitivity to cuproptosis-associated genes according to the correlation coefficient. Finally, we also found that cuproptosis-associated genes were significantly correlated with immune subtype, clinical features, the tumor microenvironment, and drug sensitivity in Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma. And the results of immunohistochemical staining analysis was very consistent with the previous analysis. Conclusion: We performed an overall analysis to uncover the roles of cuproptosis-associated genes in differential expression, survival outcomes, immune subtypes, the tumor microenvironment, stemness scores, and cancer drug sensitivity across cancers.

Changes in heart rate during the peri-ictal period in focal epilepsy

Objective: We explored changes in heart rate during the peri-ictal period in patients with focal epilepsy, and differences in heart rate changes according to epileptic site and side were assessed. Methods: A total of 198 epileptic seizures in 102 patients with focal epilepsy, who had a definite epileptogenic focus and had undergone surgical treatment, were assessed from 2014 to 2019. Heart rate was measured manually during the peri-ictal period. Change in heart rate and the time it occurred were assessed and compared between different epileptic sites and sides. Results: Heart rate increased in 177 (89.4%) of 198 seizures. In 82 (44.8%) of 183 seizures, the change in heart rate occurred before seizure onset. The median period of heart rate change was seven seconds (interquartile range: 3­11 seconds) in seizures with heart rate change before seizure onset. The number of seizures with heart rate increase before seizure onset was significantly greater for medial temporal lobe epilepsy compared to lateral temporal lobe epilepsy (p=0.019) and extratemporal lobe epilepsy (p=0.002). Significance: A change in heart rate prior to seizure onset is more likely to occur in patients with medial temporal lobe epilepsy, compared to those with lateral temporal lobe epilepsy and extratemporal lobe epilepsy. Patients with medial temporal lobe epilepsy may likely benefit from seizure warning and detection devices.

A novel KCNT1 mutation in a Chinese family with severe autosomal-dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy.

We describe a Chinese family with severe autosomal-dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy (ADNFLE) and psychiatric problems in whom whole-exome family trio sequencing identified a heterozygous mutation in the potassium channel subfamily T, member 1 (KCNT1), a sodium-gated potassium channel gene, which was a novel missense mutation c.2153A>T (p. Asp718Val). The typical characteristics of the three patients in the family were refractory epilepsy, acquired cognitive impairment, and psychiatric problems, which include hallucinations and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The age at onset was found to be earlier in son and daughter of the proband than that of the proband, as proven by the proband's history of an epileptic seizure at the age of 16 years and her son's and daughter's history of seizures at the age of 8 years. Magnetic resonance imaging findings were negative for any abnormalities. Because of psychiatric symptoms, these three patients were administered risperidone at different times during their illness. The protestor's son had tried fenofibrate treatment, but clinical remission was unclear. In summary, our findings broadened the mutation database in relation to KCNT1 and implicated the sodium-gated potassium channel complex in ADNFLE, more broadly, in the pathogenesis of focal epilepsies.

Identification of colon tumor marker NKD1 via integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer is an important death-related disease in the worldwide. However, specific colon cancer tumor markers currently used for diagnosis and treatment are few. The purpose of this study is to screen the potential colon cancer markers by bioinformatics and verify the results with experiments. METHODS: Gene expression data were downloaded from two different databases: TCGA database and GEO datasets, which were then analyzed by two different methods (difference analysis and WGCNA method). Venn and PPI analysis obtained the potential core genes, which were then performed the GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis. Expressions levels of NKD1 in colon carcinoma tissues were further confirmed by immunohistochemical staining and western blot assays. Moreover, the function was measured by MTT, clone formation, and tumor transplantation experiments. Importantly, co-immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and protein stability assays were further performed to explore the underlying mechanism of NKD1 promoting cell proliferation. RESULTS: Nine potential core genes highly expressed in colon cancer samples were screened out by bioinformatics analysis. NKD1, one of the hub genes, highly expressed in the colon carcinoma tissues could enhance the proliferation of colon cancer cells. Mechanism research demonstrated that NKD1 was essential for the combination between Wnt signalosome (DVL) and ß-catenin, and that NKD1 knockout remarkably decreased the ß-catenin expression. Immunofluorescence assays further implied that NKD1 knockout significantly inhibited ß-catenin nuclear accumulation. Importantly, the stability of ß-catenin proteins was maintained by NKD1 in the colon cancer cells. CONCLUSION: We believe that NKD1 well expressed in the colorectal carcinoma tissues can enhance the proliferation of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, the functions that NKD1 may have in colon cancer cells should be different from that NKD1 has played in the zebrafish. Thus, NKD1 could be a specific colorectal cancer marker.

A modified technique of transanal specimen extraction in the laparoscopic anterior rectal resection for upper rectal or lower sigmoid colon cancer: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) has become a field of special interest for colorectal surgeons. Some researchers have reported transanal specimen extraction in the laparoscopic anterior rectal resection, including intersphincteric resection (ISR) and rectal eversion-resection. However, these surgical procedures have certain limitations. Based on the proven expertise in laparoscopic surgery, our center has developed a modified technique of transanal specimen extraction. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and feasibility of a modified technique of transanal specimen extraction in the laparoscopic anterior rectal resection. METHODS: From January 2011 to January 2014, the patients with upper rectal or lower sigmoid colon cancer who had undergone laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with specimen extraction by a modified transanal technique were enrolled in the observation group, and the patients who had undergone laparoscopic anterior rectal resection with specimen extraction via an abdominal incision by the same surgeons during the same period were enrolled in the control group. RESULTS: A total of 36 patients were included in the observation group and 128 patients were included in the control group. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) between the two groups in terms of the mean operative time [144 ± 10 min vs. 141 ± 11 min], mean intraoperative blood loss [63 ± 6 ml vs. 61 ± 7 ml], and the mean time to anal exhaust [67 ± 7 h vs. 65 ± 8 h]. However, there were significant differences (P < 0.05) between the two groups in terms of the mean postoperative Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores [3.4 ± 1.1 vs. 4.5 ± 1.2], mean postoperative hospital stay [6.0 ± 1.1 days ± vs. 7.2 ± 1.2 days], and incidence of postoperative complications (4/36 vs. 15/128). Long-term follow-up results showed that there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the two groups in terms of the 3- or 5-year overall survival. CONCLUSIONS: The modified technique of transanal specimen extraction in the laparoscopic anterior rectal resection fulfilled the principle of no-neoplasm touch technique, with advantages, such as minimal trauma, rapid recovery, and fewer complications. Long-term follow-up results also showed satisfactory oncological outcomes.

Hsa_circ_0088233 Alleviates Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Prostate Cancer by Targeting hsa-miR-185-3p.

Prostate cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the urinary system. The mechanisms of the initiation and progression of prostate cancer have not been fully elucidated. Increasing evidence suggests that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in cancer pathogenesis. In this study, we aimed to identify differentially expressed circRNAs in prostate cancer tissues and explored the role of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer. By screening a circRNA microarray assay, we found that circ_0088233 was upregulated in prostate cancer tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues, and this upregulation can be verified in 46 pairs of prostate cancer and adjacent normal tissues examined using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. The level of circ_0088233 correlated with the TNM stage. Knockdown of circ_0088233 reduced cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and induced G1 phase arrest and apoptosis. In addition, miR-185-3p was identified as the downstream target of circ_0088233 using luciferase reporter assays and a biotinylated circ_0088233 probe pull-down assay. The miR-185-3p level showed a negative correlation with the circ_0088233 level in prostate cancer tissues. Overexpression of circ_0088233 blocked the effects of miR-185-3p on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle, and apoptosis. In conclusion, circ_0088233 may function as an oncogene and play an oncogenic role by sponging hsa-miR-185-3p. This study increases the understanding of circRNAs in the progression of prostate cancer. These results implicate circ_0088233 as a potential therapeutic target for prostate cancer.

DPEP1 promotes the proliferation of colon cancer cells via the DPEP1/MYC feedback loop regulation.

DPEP1 is highly expressed in the colorectal carcinoma tissues and colon cancer cells. However, the function and underlying mechanism of DPEP1 in the colon cancer cells are still poorly understood. Here, we found that transcription factor MYC could occupy on the DPEP1 promoter and activate its activities, and DPEP1 was up-regulated by MYC proteins in mRNA and protein levels in a dose-dependent manner in colon cancer cells. The expression levels of DPEP1 were positively correlated with that of MYC in colorectal tumor tissues. Moreover, Laser confocal images and Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) revealed that DPEP1 and MYC proteins could bind to each other in the colon cancer cells. In turn, DPEP1 could enhance the stability of MYC proteins by extending the half-life of MYC proteins in colon cancer cells. Thus, DPEP1 and MYC proteins might form a positive feedback loop to maintain their high expression levels in colon cancer cells. In function, the MTT, EdU, Clone Formation assays and xenograft tumors assays demonstrated that DPEP1 could boost the proliferation of colon cancer cells through the DPEP1/MYC positive feedback loop in vitro and in vivo. Theoretically, DPEP1 may serve as a colon cancer biomarker and a novel target of colorectal carcinogenesis therapy.

Study of anorectal dynamics in patients undergoing laparoscopic ultra-low resection and transanal intersphincteric resection for rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Quite a few studies on anal functions after open total mesorectal excision combined with transanal intersphincteric resection (ISR) have been reported, but there is little literature on anal function after laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LTME) combined with transanal ISR. The aim of this study was to explore the post-operative anorectal dynamic changes in ultra-low rectal cancer patients undergoing LTME combined with transanal ISR. METHODS: The data of 26 ultra-low rectal cancer patients undergoing LTME + transanal ISR were analysed. A total of 30 patients undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection by the same surgeons during the same period were randomly enrolled into the control group. RESULTS: There were no differences in the preoperative anorectal manometry data and Wexner anal function scores between the observation group and the control group (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the mean operation time, the mean amount of bleeding and the mean post-operative hospital stay between the two groups (P > 0.05). The mean follow-up time was 16 months. No recurrence and metastasis were found in all cases. At 3 and 6 months after the operation, there were significant differences in the anorectal manometry data and Wexner anal function scores between the two groups (P < 0.05). However, at 1 year after the operation, there were no significant differences in the anorectal manometry data and Wexner anal function scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic ISR for ultra-low rectal cancer is technically feasible, but the surgical indications should be strictly defined.