Hormonal Regulation Research Articles

Advances in the study of the relationship between gut microbiota and erectile dysfunction.

In recent years, in-depth research has revealed that gut microbiota has an inseparable relationship with erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. (1) To review the correlation between gut microbiota and ED from the perspective of its impact on men's mental health, metabolism, immunity, and endocrine regulation and (2) to provide reference to further explore the pathogenesis of ED and the improvement of clinical treatment plans. PubMed was used for the literature search to identify publications related to ED and gut microbiota. Gut microbiota may induce depression and anxiety through the microbiota-gut-brain axis, leading to the occurrence of psychological ED. It may also cause vascular endothelial dysfunction and androgen metabolism disorder by interfering with lipid metabolism, immunity, and endocrine regulation, leading to the occurrence of organic ED. Gut microbiota and its metabolites play an important role in the occurrence and development of ED. As a new influencing factor of ED, gut microbiota disorder is expected to become a target for treatment.

Diacerein mitigates endocrine and cardio-metabolic disruptions in experimental PCOS mice model by modulating AdipoR1/ PON 1

BackgroundThis study aimed to explore the impact of Diacerein (DIC) on endocrine and cardio-metabolic changes in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) mouse model.MethodsA total of 18 adult female mice (Parkes strain), aged 4–5 weeks, were randomly assigned to three groups, each comprising 6 animals, as follows: Group I (control), received normal diet and normal saline as vehicle for 51 days; Group II received Letrozole (LET; 6 mg/kg bw) for 21 days to induce PCOS; Group III received LET, followed by daily oral gavage administration of DIC (35 mg/kg bw) for 30 days.ResultsThis study indicates that treatment with LET resulted in PCOS with characteristics such as polycystic ovaries, elevated testosterone, weight gain, visceral adiposity, high levels of insulin as well as fasting blood glucose in addition to insulin resistance, improper handling of ovarian lipids, atherogenic dyslipidemia, impaired Na + /K + -ATPase activity and serum, cardiac, and ovarian oxidative stress. Serum/ovarian adiponectin levels were lowered in LET-treated mice. In mice treated with LET, we also discovered a reduction in cardiac and serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1). Interestingly, DIC restored ovarian andcardio-metabolic abnormalities in LET-induced PCOS mice. DIC prevented the endocrine and cardio-metabolic changes brought on by letrozole-induced PCOS in mice.ConclusionThe ameliorative effects of DIC on letrozole-induced PCOS with concurrent oxidative stress, abdominal fat deposition, cardiac and ovarian substrate mishandling, glucometabolic dysfunction, and adiponectin/PON1 activation support the idea that DIC perhaps, restore compromised endocrine and cardio-metabolic regulators in PCOS.

HcGr76 responds to fructose and chlorogenic acid and is involved in regulation of peptide expression in the midgut of Hyphantria cunea larvae.

Sensing dietary components in the gut is important to ensure an appropriate hormonal response and metabolic regulation after food intake. The fall webworm, Hyphantria cunea, is a major invasive pest in China and has led to significant economic losses and ecosystem disruption. The larvae's broad host range and voracious appetite for leaves make H. cunea a primary cause of serious damage to both forests and crops. To date, however, the gustatory receptors (Grs) of H. cunea and their regulatory function remain largely unknown. We identified the fall webworm gustatory receptor HcGr76 as a fructose and chlorogenic acid receptor using Ca2+ imaging and determination of intracellular Ca2+ concentration by a microplate reader. Moreover, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis revealed that HcGr76 is highly expressed in the anterior and middle midgut. Knockdown of HcGr76 caused a significant reduction in the expression of neuropeptide F 1 (NPF1) and CCHamide-2, and led to a decrease in carbohydrate and lipid levels in the hemolymph. Our studies provide circumstantial evidence that HcGr76 expressed in the midgut is involved in sensing dietary components, and regulates the expression of relevant peptide hormones to alter metabolism in H. cunea larvae, thus providing a promising molecular target for the development of new insect-specific control products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Differential response of roots and leaves to combined heat and salinity stresses in tomato plants

Despite our understanding of plant responses to single stresses, knowledge on how plants respond to combined abiotic factors and the underlying hormonal regulation is still very limited. Here, we aimed to examine the plant response to combined heat and salt stresses in tomato plants, the underlying hormonal response and the effectiveness of methyl jasmonate application in its alleviation. We measured fruit production and various stress markers in both roots and leaves, together with endogenous contents of stress-related phytohormones (including abscisic acid, salicylic acid and jasmonates) in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Micro-Tom), exposed to combined stress. In addition, we evaluated the effectiveness of a methyl jasmonate treatment as a priming agent to alleviate the negative effects of stress, with an emphasis on evaluating the effects of this hormone on triggering antioxidant protection by enhancement of vitamin E contents. Plants responded differently to combined stress treatment than to single stresses, but this differential response was organ-specific, with roots being more sensitive to stress than leaves. Both abscisic acid and jasmonates were involved in the plant response to combined stress but leaves and roots responded differently. Furthermore, abscisic acid and jasmonates correlated with vitamin E accumulation, most particularly in roots. Foliar application of methyl jasmonate at the flowering stage in plants challenged with combined stress did not improve fruit production but resulted in enhanced vitamin E accumulation in leaves. It is concluded that (i) roots and leaves show a differential sensitivity to both single and combined heat and salt stresses, (ii) the response of abscisic acid and jasmonates in plant stress responses seems to be markedly organ dependent, and (iii) foliar methyl jasmonate increased vitamin E accumulation under combined stress in tomato plants.

Pharmacological actions of the bioactive compounds of Epimedium on the male reproductive system: current status and future perspective.

Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium, icariin, and its metabolites (icaritin, icariside I, and icariside II), which have similar molecular structures. Modern pharmacological research and clinical practice have proved that Epimedium and its active components have a wide range of pharmacological effects, especially in improving sexual function, hormone regulation, anti-osteoporosis, immune function regulation, anti-oxidation, and anti-tumor activity. To date, we still need a comprehensive source of knowledge about the pharmacological effects of Epimedium and its bioactive compounds on the male reproductive system. However, their actions in other tissues have been reviewed in recent years. This review critically focuses on the Epimedium, its bioactive compounds, and the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the male reproductive system. Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on the Epimedium and its bioactive compounds that protect the male reproductive system and provide some guidances for clinical treatment of related male reproductive disorders.

A Glance into the Near Future: Cultivated Meat from Mammalian and Insect Cells

The increasing global population and demand for meat have led to the need to find sustainable and viable alternatives to traditional production methods. One potential solution is cultivated meat (CM), which involves producing meat in vitro from animal stem cells to generate products with nutritional and sensory properties similar to conventional livestock‐derived meat. This article examines current approaches to CM production and investigates how using insect cells could enhance the process. Cell sources are a critical issue in CM production, alongside advances in culture media, bioreactors for scalability, and scaffold development. Insect cells, compared to commonly used mammalian cells, may offer advantages in overcoming technological challenges that hinder cell culture development and expansion. The objective of this review is to emphasize how insects, as a cell source for CM production, could offer a more sustainable option. A crucial aspect for achieving this goal is a comprehensive understanding of the physiology of muscle and fat cells. In this work, the characteristics of insect and mammalian cells are compared, focusing particularly on muscle and fat cell development, regulatory pathways, hormonal regulation, and tissue composition. Insect cells are a promising source for CM, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.

Genome-Wide Analysis of the Auxin/Indoleacetic Acid (Aux/IAA) Gene Family in Autopolyploid Sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum).

The auxin/indoleacetic acid (Aux/IAA) family plays a central role in regulating gene expression during auxin signal transduction. Nonetheless, there is limited knowledge regarding this gene family in sugarcane. In this study, 92 members of the IAA family were identified in Saccharum spontaneum, distributed on 32 chromosomes, and classified into three clusters based on phylogeny and motif compositions. Segmental duplication and recombination events contributed largely to the expansion of this superfamily. Additionally, cis-acting elements in the promoters of SsIAAs involved in plant hormone regulation and stress responsiveness were predicted. Transcriptomics data revealed that most SsIAA expressions were significantly higher in stems and basal parts of leaves, and at nighttime, suggesting that these genes might be involved in sugar transport. QRT-PCR assays confirmed that cold and salt stress significantly induced four and five SsIAAs, respectively. GFP-subcellular localization showed that SsIAA23 and SsIAA12a were localized in the nucleus, consistent with the results of bioinformatics analysis. In conclusion, to a certain extent, the functional redundancy of family members caused by the expansion of the sugarcane IAA gene family is related to stress resistance and regeneration of sugarcane as a perennial crop. This study reveals the gene evolution and function of the SsIAA gene family in sugarcane, laying the foundation for further research on its mode of action.

A gibberellin-assisted study of the transcriptional and hormonal changes occurring at floral transition in peach buds (Prunus persica L. Batsch)

BackgroundFlower load in peach is an important determinant of final fruit quality and is subjected to cost-effective agronomical practices, such as the thinning, to finely balance the sink-source relationships within the tree and drive the optimal amount of assimilates to the fruits. Floral transition in peach buds occurs as a result of the integration of specific environmental signals, such as light and temperature, into the endogenous pathways that induce the meristem to pass from vegetative to reproductive growth. The cross talk and integration of the different players, such as the genes and the hormones, are still partially unknown. In the present research, transcriptomics and hormone profiling were applied on bud samples at different developmental stages. A gibberellin treatment was used as a tool to identify the different phases of floral transition and characterize the bud sensitivity to gibberellins in terms of inhibition of floral transition.ResultsTreatments with gibberellins showed different efficacies and pointed out a timeframe of maximum inhibition of floral transition in peach buds. Contextually, APETALA1 gene expression was shown to be a reliable marker of gibberellin efficacy in controlling this process. RNA-Seq transcriptomic analyses allowed to identify specific genes dealing with ROS, cell cycle, T6P, floral induction control and other processes, which are correlated with the bud sensitivity to gibberellins and possibly involved in bud development during its transition to the reproductive stage. Transcriptomic data integrated with the quantification of the main bioactive hormones in the bud allowed to identify the main hormonal regulators of floral transition in peach, with a pivotal role played by endogenous gibberellins and cytokinins.ConclusionsThe peach bud undergoes different levels of receptivity to gibberellin inhibition. The stage with maximum responsiveness corresponded to a transcriptional and hormonal crossroad, involving both flowering inhibitors and inductors. Endogenous gibberellin levels increased only at the latest developmental stage, when floral transition was already partially achieved, and the bud was less sensitive to exogenous treatments. A physiological model summarizes the main findings and suggests new research ideas to improve our knowledge about floral transition in peach.

Insights into Alhagi sparsifolia Seedlings Adaptations to Drought Stress under Nitrogen Addition: Regulation of Sugar Metabolism, Hormones, and Anti-Oxidant Potential

Insights into Alhagi sparsifolia Seedlings Adaptations to Drought Stress under Nitrogen Addition: Regulation of Sugar Metabolism, Hormones, and Anti-Oxidant Potential

Exploring hormonal regulation and candidate genes in leaflet nyctinasty of Averrhoa carambola

Averrhoa carambola, a commonly cultivated tree, exhibits leaflet nyctinastic movement. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The pulvinus, as a motor organ, coordinates the motion of its attached leaflet. During the leaflet expansion, flexor cells shift from contraction to expansion, with concurrent expansion and fusion of vacuole. In contrast, the extensor cells move from expansion to contraction, causing vacuole contraction and increased vacuole numbers. During the process of leaflet expansion and closure, the contents of IAA and IPA in flexor muscles increased significantly, but did not show significant changes in extensor muscles, BR content showed an opposite trend in extensor and flexor muscles, and the content of ZR increased significantly in extensor muscles but decreased significantly in flexor muscles, and ZR content only decreased in extensor muscles, but did not show significant changes in flexor muscles. Exogenous IAA (50–100 μM) significantly aids in leaflet unfolding during night time. Transcriptome analysis reveals gene enrichment in circadian rhythms, hormone signaling, ion channels, and other pathways during leaflet opening and closure. The expression of AcaCRY3, AcaPHOT1–1, AcaAPRR2, AcaLHY, and AcaAKT1–1 is prominent during expansion, while AcaAUX22–1 stands out during closure. These findings suggest a potential regulatory pathway in A. carambola 'Daguo Tianyangtao 2′ leaflets, involving light, circadian rhythm, hormone signaling, and ion channels. Findings of this study can do a great deal to broaden the plant nyctinastic movement research.

P-600 Development of human ovarian spheroids as an innovating 3D model to study female hormone-related disorders

Abstract Study question Can spheroids of theca and granulosa cells serve as a new model to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in female hormone-related disorders? Summary answer Layered theca-granulosa cell spheroids can be successfully assembled with preserved cellular viability, β-estradiol production, and significant upregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. What is known already Spheroid models can revolutionize reproductive biology research, faithfully replicating the ovarian microenvironment for insights into hormonal regulation, cell-cell interactions, and pathologies like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). These models can replicate the spatial configuration of the theca cells (TCs) and granulosa cells (GCs), which are the primary components of the follicle’s somatic compartment. Studies using rodent spheroids demonstrate improved estradiol and progesterone secretion, suggesting potential applicability. Though challenging to obtain, recent studies have successfully derived TCs through the differentiation of stromal cells (SCs), introducing new possibilities for spheroid reproductive research in the context of human models. Study design, size, duration The study included GCs from around 15 IVF patients and SCs from postmortem ovaries of 3 postmenopausal women were used to be differentiated into TCs. Participants/materials, setting, methods TCs and GCs were used to construct three spheroid types: layered theca-collagen-granulosa (TCG), layered theca-granulosa (TG), and non-layered. In TCG, GCs formed granulosa-spheroids, which were coated with collagen-I and combined with TCs. TG-spheroids were produced similarly without the collagen layer. Non-layered spheroids were assembled using isolated GCs and TCs. All embedded in PEGylated fibrin hydrogel. Media estradiol synthesis was measured via enzyme-linked immune assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence was employed to characterize cellular functionality and ECM. Main results and the role of chance In GCs, positive expressions for AMHR, CYP19A1, and FHSR were observed, while following differentiation, TCs exhibited positivity for CYP17A1, LHR and CD13. A notable distinction emerged when comparing TCs within the spheroids to those in 2D cultures, as the former demonstrated an improvement in longevity. Layered TG-spheroids exhibited significant increases in collagen-IV, EMILIN-1, and collagen type I compared to G-spheroids. Interestingly, TCG-spheroids exhibited a distinct decrease in collagen type IV. Across all spheroid types, collagen type VI and laminin were notably absent from their ECM. Moreover, all spheroids had a significant increase in β-estradiol production. Non-layered spheroids showed a significant viability decrease inside the PEGylated fibrin over 30 days, in contrast to the sustained viability observed in the layered TG- and TCG-spheroids. Limitations, reasons for caution Utilizing primary cells, particularly specific patient-derived cells, poses a limitation due to their short availability, which could impact the study’s size. Wider implications of the findings Theca-granulosa spheroids deepen our understanding of reproductive health, offering insights into conditions such as POI and menopausal symptoms. By investigating the nuanced endocrine interplay, this 3D model paves the way for new toxicity studies, provides insights into PCOS, and hints at potential applications in hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Trial registration number Not applicable

P-283 Spatial transcriptomics identifies dysregulated pathways in adenomyosis proposing potential re-purposed lesion-specific treatments

Abstract Study question How does the transcriptome of adenomyosis lesions compare to the matched eutopic endometrium, and can they be targeted with lesion-specific treatments? Summary answer Adenomyosis lesions are transcriptionally distinct from matched eutopic endometrium, exhibiting upregulated cell motility pathways, increased cilia, and altered hormonal regulation, providing targets for lesion-specific treatments. What is known already Adenomyosis affects 10% of women of reproductive age and is caused by the presence of ectopic endometrium within the myometrium, causing heavy periods, chronic pain, and subfertility. The only definitive treatment is hysterectomy and there are no current fertility-sparing treatments available. Spatial transcriptomics allows interrogation of the transcriptome with spatial context, overcoming the limitations of bulk and sc-RNA sequencing technology. In the endometrium, spatial transcriptomics has providing insight into how cellular functions differ depending on their location and communication with neighbouring cells, however it has not yet been used to investigate adenomyosis. Study design, size, duration A retrospective observational study of ten women undergoing hysterectomy for heavy, painful periods, with a histological diagnosis of adenomyosis. All women were in the secretory phase of menstrual cycle and had not taken exogenous hormones for the preceding three months. Paired full-thickness endometrial and myometrial biopsies containing adenomyosis lesions were obtained from each woman. The presence of adenomyosis lesions was confirmed by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma >2.5mm from the endo-myometrial junction. Participants/materials, setting, methods Whole transcriptome profiling of the following regions of interest was performed: luminal epithelium, functionalis, basalis, and adenomyosis lesions, and immunofluorescent morphology markers were employed to identify epithelial, stromal, endothelial, and immune cells within each region. A generalised linear-mixed model was designed and unsupervised clustering, differential gene expression comparison, gene set enrichment analysis (GO and Reactome), ligand-receptor signalling, and in silico drug screening was performed. Statistical analyses were adjusted for a false discovery rate of (<0.05). Main results and the role of chance Adenomyosis lesions were more similar to endometrial basalis than functionalis, with 102 significantly DEG’s between adenomyosis lesions and endometrial basalis, and 282 significantly DEG’s between adenomyosis lesions and endometrial functionalis (adjusted p < 0.05). Adenomyosis lesion epithelium, stroma, and immune cells consistently revealed significantly downregulated DEG’s involved with cellular proliferation and apoptosis (FOS, JUNB, DUSP1) compared to the endometrium (adjusted p = 0.002). Pathway analysis revealed that adenomyosis lesion epithelium was positively enriched for terms relating to ciliation compared to the endometrium (adjusted p < 0.0001), and immunostaining confirmed an increased number of ciliated cells in adenomyosis lesions compared with eutopic endometrium in the same samples (n = 10, p < 0.01). Androgen receptor signalling was negatively enriched in the stroma of adenomyosis lesions compared to endometrial functionalis (adjusted P < 0.0001). Ligand-receptor signalling analysis revealed prominent crosstalk between endothelial-epithelial, and immune-epithelial cells in adenomyosis lesions, and a loss of stromal-epithelial cross-talk. TNFSF10 ligand from endothelial and immune cells showed high regulatory potential of gene receptors on epithelial cells known to be involved in cellular response to stress, regulation of growth, and apoptosis (DUSP1, DUSP5, EGR1, FOS, IER3, JUNB, PPP1R15A, SGK1). In-silico drug repurposing analysis revealed key compounds which may target adenomyosis lesions and spare the eutopic endometrium. Limitations, reasons for caution This is an observational study with a small sample size of ten which is a limitation, although is larger than the sample size of most published transcriptional studies of this type. Further validation work is needed to confirm the exploratory transcriptional findings outlined. Wider implications of the findings Fertility sparing, effective, lesion-specific treatments are urgently needed for women with adenomyosis. This study provides region and cell-type specific comparative transcriptional data between adenomyosis lesions and eutopic endometrium, identifying lesion-specific dysregulated pathways, insight into their biological relevance, and potential treatment targets to be trialled in future pre-clinical studies. Trial registration number Not applicable

P-312 Transcriptional profiling of SSEA-1+ endometrial epithelial cells highlights their role in endometrial regeneration, remodelling and homeostasis

Abstract Study question Will the transcriptional profile of SSEA-1+ endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) explain their functional role, which can be explored in an in vitro endometrial organoid model? Summary answer SSEA-1+ EECs demonstrate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and associated functional pathways expected from a basal stem/progenitor cell (SPC) population, agreeing with the in vitro experiments. What is known already Endometrial SPCs are postulated to reside in the basalis and to be responsible for the full phenotypic and functional restoration of the endometrial functionalis layer. SSEA-1+ EECs assume the postulated basalis SPC niche. Previous studies demonstrated isolated SSEA-1+ EECs to have a higher capacity to generate organoids in 3D matrix and display growth like that observed after endometrial denudation. They have lower steroid hormone expression and higher telomerase activity with longer telomere lengths, all suggesting a SPC phenotype. SSEA-1+ EECs co-express nuclear SRY-box transcription factor 9 (nSOX9) and nuclear b-catenin, suggesting an activated Wnt pathway. Study design, size, duration Endometrial samples were collected from eight pre-menopausal women attending the Liverpool Women’s Hospital for benign gynaecological procedures, aged 30-47 years. These patients were having regular menstrual cycles and had not been on any hormonal therapy for at least three months prior to enrolment. Three further endometrial samples were obtained for 3D EEC organoid culture studies. Participants/materials, setting, methods Magnetic-activated cell sorting was used to isolate SSEA-1 enriched/depleted EECs from freshly harvested endometrial samples. Microarray analysis was performed using Agilent human arrays. DEGs and pathway enrichment analysis were explored using R-studio and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Internal and external validation used RT-qPCR, dual-immunofluorescence, and comparison against publicly available endometrial single cell spatial transcriptomic data. Human EEC organoids models were employed to assess hormonal regulation of SSEA-1 expression using immunohistochemistry. Main results and the role of chance SSEA-1+ EECs have a distinct transcriptional profile, with 1,059 DEGs compared with SSEA-1- EECs. Pathway analysis highlighted their role in endometrial regeneration, adhesion, remodelling, and neovascularisation, enriching for pathways such as ‘extracellular matrix structural constituent’, ‘epithelial to mesenchymal transition’, ‘angiogenesis’, ‘TNFα signalling via NFKB’ and ‘Notch signalling’. IPA’s biological functions demonstrated their involvement in tissue homeostasis, tumour suppression and their more quiescent SPC phenotype, with activation of ‘organismal death’ and inhibition of ‘cell movement/migration’ and ‘cell movement/migration of tumour cell lines’. The activation of canonical pathways such as ‘PTEN signalling’ and ‘endocannabinoid cancer inhibition’ demonstrated their fine equilibrium to drive proliferation during regeneration, whilst providing protection from hyperplastic/carcinogenic transformation. Ten selected DEGs were internally validated using RT-qPCR, demonstrating concordance. Dual-immunofluorescence of gene products of DEGs MMP7, MMP26, C11orf52 and CD47 confirmed co-localisation alongside SSEA-1 in an external biological cohort of endometrial samples. External in silico validation using the Garcia-Alonso et al endometrial single-cell transcriptomics dataset, mapped significantly upregulated DEGs MMP7 and MMP26 to mainly SOX9+ and SOX9+/LGR5+ EECs. EEC organoids exposed to hormones (including oestradiol) demonstrated an induction of proliferation and higher proportion of organoids expressing SSEA-1 (46.8% vs 67%) simulating endometrial glandular regeneration process. Limitations, reasons for caution Freshly isolated/sorted EECs were obtained from women at different menstrual cycle phases. Our organoid model system only contained EECs without the stromal component, thus, was not suitable to assess progestogenic response of EECs that occur in vivo. Wider implications of the findings This study provides novel information on human SSEA-1+ EECs, suggesting their pivotal role in endometrial regeneration. Since endometrial epithelial SPCs make a vital contribution to endometrial repair and pregnancy establishment, characterising of these cells in health will allow the development of targeted novel therapies on aberrant SPCs within gynaecological disease. Trial registration number Not applicable

BIOCHEMICAL IMBALANCE IN ISCHEMIC HEART DAMAGE COMBINED WITH STEATOHEPATOSIS

The development of steatohepatosis in most cases is the primary process and consequence of the metabolic syndrome. This disease has a long asymptomatic course. The connection of steatohepatosis with the development and progression of coronary heart disease occurs when steatohepatosis is associated with metabolic syndrome and obesity. Patients with steatohepatosis usually have signs of metabolic syndrome: arterial hypertension, abdominal obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, which are considered risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Biochemical parameters were determined in coronary artery disease complicated by steatohepatosis. 101 people were examined. When examining the serum level of brain natriuretic peptide in patients with ischemic heart disease in combination with steatohepatosis, a higher level was found than in uncomplicated coronary heart disease, which indicates a deeper violation of the functional state of the myocardium in ischemic heart disease in combination with steatohepatosis. When examining the cytolytic syndrome markers LDH, AST and ALT, a probable increase in their activity is observed. The detected activation of LDH is associated with damage, tissue necrosis, which is observed in the case of damage to the myocardium and hepatocytes in the examined groups, which indicates an inflammatory type of pathogenesis. Apparently, activation of transaminases is associated with cytolytic syndrome in myocardial damage and increased energy expenditure of hepatocytes in fatty hepatosis. Signs of impaired glucose tolerance were found in the examined subjects: the fasting glucose level and the postprandial glucose level probably exceeded normal values, the HbA1c level was 1.5 times higher than the control in myocardial ischemia, and 1.7 times higher in coronary heart disease and steatohepatosis (p< 0.05). Disruption of hormonal regulation of carbohydrate metabolism was detected in both examined groups. An elevated level of total cholesterol and dyslipoproteinemia were also found in both groups of examined patients, however, the most pronounced changes are observed in the case of complications of steatohepatosis. The obtained results indicate complex disorders of lipid metabolism in myocardial ischemia and ischemic heart damage in combination with steatohepatosis, which confirms the development of metabolic syndrome.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of histone deacetylase and histone acetyltransferase genes in response to drought in poplars

BackgroundHistone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs) are involved in plant growth and development as well as in response to environmental changes, by dynamically regulating gene acetylation levels. Although there have been numerous reports on the identification and function of HDAC and HAT in herbaceous plants, there are fewer report related genes in woody plants under drought stress.ResultsIn this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis of the HDAC and HAT families in Populus trichocarpa, including phylogenetic analysis, gene structure, conserved domains, and expression analysis. A total of 16 PtrHDACs and 12 PtrHATs were identified in P. trichocarpa genome. Analysis of cis-elements in the promoters of PtrHDACs and PtrHATs revealed that both gene families could respond to a variety of environmental signals, including hormones and drought. Furthermore, real time quantitative PCR indicated that PtrHDA906 and PtrHAG3 were significantly responsive to drought. PtrHDA906, PtrHAC1, PtrHAC3, PtrHAG2, PtrHAG6 and PtrHAF1 consistently responded to abscisic acid, methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid under drought conditions.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that PtrHDACs and PtrHATs may respond to drought through hormone signaling pathways, which helps to reveal the hub of acetylation modification in hormone regulation of abiotic stress.

The impact of non-lethal doses of pyriproxyfen on male and female Aedes albopictus reproductive fitness.

Control of the mosquito Aedes albopictus is confounded by its behavior due to females preferring to oviposition in small natural and artificial containers that are often difficult to remove or treat with insecticides. Autodissemination strategies utilizing highly potent insect growth regulators (IGRs) have emerged as promising tools for the control of this container-inhabiting species. The intended goal of autodissemination approaches is to use mosquitoes to self-deliver an IGR to these cryptic oviposition locations. Previous studies have focused on the efficacy of these approaches to impact natural populations, but little focus has been placed on the impacts on mosquitoes when exposed to non-lethal doses of IGRs similar to the levels they would be exposed to with autodissemination approaches. In this study, the impact of non-lethal doses of pyriproxyfen (PPF) on the reproductive fitness of Ae. albopictus was investigated. Female and male Ae. albopictus mosquitoes were exposed to non-lethal doses of PPF and their fecundity and fertility were measured. To examine the impact of non-lethal doses of PPF, the expression of the ecdysone-regulated genes USP, HR3, and Vg, which are involved in vitellogenesis, was determined. Our results demonstrated a significant reduction in female fecundity and in the blood feeding and egg hatching rates upon exposure to non-lethal doses of PPF. Oocyte development was also delayed in PPF-treated females. Furthermore, exposure to non-lethal doses of PPF altered the expression of the genes involved in vitellogenesis, indicating disruption of hormonal regulation. Interestingly, PPF exposure also reduced the sperm production in males, suggesting a potential semi-sterilization effect. These findings suggest that non-lethal doses of PPF could enhance the efficacy of autodissemination approaches by impacting the reproductive fitness of both males and females. However, further research is needed to validate these laboratory findings in field settings and to assess their practical implications for vector control strategies.

From macro to micro: slow-wave sleep and its pivotal health implications

Research on slow-wave sleep (SWS) began almost a century ago, not long after the discovery of electroencephalography. From maintaining homeostasis to memory function, the pivotal role of SWS in health has been established. The elucidation of its mechanisms and functions is directly related to the fundamental question of why people sleep. This comprehensive review first summarizes the basic science of SWS from anatomical and physiological aspects. It describes the fundamental mechanisms and functions of SWS, including hormonal regulation, developmental changes in SWS across the lifespan, and associations between SWS and optimal physical, psychological, and cognitive functions. Next, the relationship between SWS and physical and mental disorders, for which increasing knowledge has accumulated in recent years, is discussed from both research and clinical perspectives. Conditions such as memory impairment, sleep-disordered breathing, neurodevelopmental disorders, and various psychiatric disorders are of concern. The relationship between SWS and the glymphatic system, which is responsible for waste clearance in the brain, has also been explored, highlighting the potential neuroprotective role of SWS. Finally, we discuss the future direction of the field regarding whether interventions in SWS can improve health. We also address the problem of the inconsistent definitions of SWS, slow-wave activity, and slow oscillations. This review emphasizes the importance of discussing SWS from both macro- and microarchitectural perspectives and highlights its potential clinical and research impacts. By reviewing these aspects, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of SWS and the future development of this research field.

The Efficacy of Letrozole Co-Treatment in an Antagonist Protocol for Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Undergoing IVF: A Retrospective Study.

Our objective was to investigate the efficacy of letrozole co-treatment in an antagonist protocol for infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This retrospective cohort study included infertile women with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI with and without letrozole co-treatment in an antagonist protocol from 2007-2021 at Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital (Shanghai, China). A total of 1559 participants were enrolled, with 1227 women in the antagonist group and 332 women in the letrozole co-treatment group. Propensity score-based patient-matching model was conducted to balance covariates between the groups. The primary outcome was the number of retrieved oocytes, with secondary outcomes including endocrine parameters, ovarian stimulation outcomes, pregnancy outcomes, and obstetrical and neonatal complications. Letrozole co-treatment induced significant changes in hormonal regulation, increased the percentage of large follicles, and resulted in fewer retrieved oocytes (P < 0.05). However, there was no negative impact on the number of usable embryos or good-quality embryos (P > 0.05). The live birth rates following fresh embryo transfer were comparable between the letrozole and control groups (single embryo transfer: 28.9% vs 29.7%, P > 0.05; double embryo transfer: 37.3% vs 45.6%, P > 0.05). Additionally, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the live birth rate per patient after frozen embryo transfer and the cumulative live birth rate (P > 0.05). No significant differences in obstetrical and neonatal complications were observed between the groups (P > 0.05). The addition of letrozole to the antagonist protocol for women with PCOS undergoing IVF induces a higher percentage of large follicles during oocyte retrieval, while reducing the overall number of retrieved oocytes. Moreover, the use of letrozole demonstrates comparable clinical outcomes following embryo transfers. These findings highlight the potential application of letrozole in an antagonist protocol for women with PCOS.

Epigenomic features associated with body temperature stabilize tissues during cold exposure in cold-resistant pigs

Cold stress in low-temperature environments can trigger changes in gene expression, but epigenomics regulation of temperature stability in vital tissues, including the fat and diencephalon, is still unclear. Here, we explore the cold-induced changes in epigenomic features in the diencephalon and fat tissues of two cold-resistant Chinese pig breeds, Min and Enshi black (ES) pigs, utilizing H3K27ac CUT&Tag, RNA-seq, and selective signature analysis. Our results show significant alterations in H3K27ac modifications in the diencephalon of Min pigs and the fat of ES pigs after cold exposure. Dramatic changes in H3K27ac modifications in the diencephalon of Min pig are primarily associated with genes involved in energy metabolism and hormone regulation, whereas those in the fat of ES pig are primarily associated with immunity-related genes. Moreover, transcription factors PRDM1 and HSF1, which show evidence of selection, are enriched in genomic regions presenting cold-responsive alterations in H3K27ac modification in the Min pig diencephalon and ES pig fat, respectively. Our results indicate the diversity of epigenomic response mechanisms to cold exposure between Min and ES pigs, providing unique epigenetic resources for studies of low-temperature adaptation in large mammals.

Mycoprotein nanoparticles in agriculture

A32 kDa protein from fungi can be used to produce nanoparticles which might be use as nanofertilisers needed by plants. There are large numbers of fungi which can be used for the efficient synthesis of nanofertiliser particles. Generally, the formation of nanoparticles by fungi involves metal capture, enzymatic reduction and capping on their surface. Metal ions are located either on the outer surface or inside fungal cells and then chemically reduced to nanoparticles in the presence of fungal enzymes. The best way to apply fungus-synthesised nanoparticles/nanofertiliser is to foliage but they can also be applied to soil or through seed soaking. They may also apply through drip, sprinkler, hydroponic, aeroponic and aquaponic. The major effects of nanoparticles as nanofertilisers are on the elevation of antioxidant enzyme activities and photosynthetic pigments. They help to improve in plant tolerance to stresses and defence against pest and diseases after retaining important physiological and biochemical functions. The net results are increased seed germination, vigour index, chlorophyll level, hormonal regulation, photosynthetic rate, electrolytic levels, plant biomass and crop yields. Mycoprotein nanoparticles may alter plant metabolic pathways, regulating energy dissipation, and improved membrane permeability and stability, at the same time as increasing plant health and growth kinetic traits. They are also known to trigger to produce more microbial polysaccharide from polysaccharide secreting fungi that help in soil aggregation, moisture retention, carbon build - up. However, they should be applied only in recommended doses to avoid adverse effects on plant growth and toxicity