Membrane Structure Research Articles

Dual-mode SPR/SERS optical fiber sensor for ultra-trace mercury ions detection

The detection of mercury ions (Hg2+) is crucial due to its harmful effects on health and environment. In this article, what we believe to be a novel dual-mode optical fiber sensor incorporating surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is proposed for ultra-trace Hg2+ detection. The sensing probe comprises gold (Au)/graphene oxide (GO) composite membrane structure and Au nanospheres (AuNPs), which are connected via double-stranded DNA. In the presence of Hg2+, two single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) modified on the sensing region and AuNPs asymmetrically pair to form a thymine (T) - Hg2+ - T structure, facilitating AuNPs attachment to the sensing region. This attachment induces spectral changes, thereby enabling Hg2+ detection. In the SPR mode, the limit of detection (LOD) for Hg2+ is 1.82 × 10−12 M. In the SERS mode, AuNPs generate numerous “hot spots” that amplify the Raman signal through electromagnetic enhancement mechanism (EM), the Au/GO composite membrane can undergo charge transfer with Raman molecule to further enhance the Raman signal through chemical enhancement mechanism (CM), thus achieving detection of Hg2+ with a LOD of 3.94 × 10−13 M. The synergy between SPR mode and SERS mode enhances cross-validation of results and improves accuracy and reliability of the assay. Therefore, the sensor proposed in this paper demonstrates strong potential for diverse practical applications.

Morphometrics and First Ultrastructural Characterizations of Intra-Erythrocytic Stages of So-Called Haemogregarina damiettae Ramadan etal. (1996) With Special Reference to Its Cytopathological Effects on the Infected Erythrocytes.

The current study provides the first ultrastructural observations on the intraerythrocytic stages of so-called Haemogregarina damiettae and their cytopathological effects on the infected erythrocytes (IEs) in addition to the recording of new morphometric data. The intraerythrocytic stages are attributed to the immature forms or trophozoites (Ts), and mature gamonts (Gs). Ts are typically bowling-bottle shaped with nucleus (TN) occupying its globose part, while Gs are typically banana- shaped. Ts measure 9.60-13.77 (12.53 ± 0.95) × 3.29-5.72 (4.18 ± 0.52) μm, however, Gs measure 14.05-16.13 (15.15 ± 0.60) × 3.38-4.74 (4.06 ± 0.32). Parasite shape index, nuclear/body, and nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio are calculated for both Ts and Gs. Moreover, shape index, nuclear/erythrocytic ratio, nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio are determined for both uninfected erythrocytes (UIEs) and IEs. At ultrastructural level, the parasite exhibited numerous unique features such as the presence of unsutured covering capsule (Ca), intracytoplasmic membraneous structures (ICM), and electron-dense connecting structures (CS) between the degradable cytoplasmic mass (DC) of IEs and parasite itself which are postulated to perform a feeding function. The cytopathological effects on IEs include erythrocytic shape distortion, hypertrophy, dehemoglobinization, as well as nucleus size and shape changes. Erythrocytic karyolysis is confirmed by light and electron microscopy. In addition, all IEs showed characteristics two lateral polar projections or flape-like extensions (FE) supported by microtubules-like structures. Moreover, parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) form in most cases a thick internal lining (IL) of homogenous electron-lucent materials at parasite-facing side and knob-like thickenings (K) of electron-dense materials on erythrocytic cytoplasm-facing side.

Investigations of Microstructures and Properties of SPEEK‐[BMIm][OTf] Ionic Liquid Composite Membrane for Fuel Cells

AbstractUtilizing ionic liquids in proton exchange membranes can greatly enhance the performance of fuel cells, enabling their application in high‐temperature and dry conditions. Further advancements in this field depend on a fundamental comprehension of their structural characteristics. This study focuses on the sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK)‐1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate [BMIm][OTf] composite membrane system. Effects of sulfonation degree, ionic liquid content, and temperature on the structure and conductivity of the composite membrane are investigated by dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Results show that [BMIm][OTf] is predominantly distributed around the sulfonic acid groups of SPEEK. At an optimal sulfonation degree and ionic liquid content, interconnected ionic liquid channels can be formed. Nevertheless, an excessively high sulfonation degree may jeopardize the stability of the membrane structure. Moreover, the aggregation of ionic liquid occurs at a high level of ionic liquid content, which hinders the efficient transfer of protons. Generally, increasing the temperature is more conducive to the formation of monodisperse ionic liquid channels within the SPEEK‐[BMIm][OTf] composite membrane; however, overhigh temperature may compromise the integrity of the composite membrane structure. The findings of this study offer molecular insights for the development of high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell systems.

Coacervate vesicles assembled by liquid-liquid phase separation improve delivery of biopharmaceuticals.

Vesicles play critical roles in cellular materials storage and signal transportation, even in the formation of organelles and cells. Natural vesicles are composed of a lipid layer that forms a membrane for the enclosure of substances inside. Here we report a coacervate vesicle formed by the liquid-liquid phase separation of cholesterol-modified DNA and histones. Unlike a phospholipid-based membrane-bounded vesicle, a coacervate vesicle lacks a membrane structure on the surface and is organized with a high-density liquid layer and a water-filled cavity. Through a straightforward coacervation process, we demonstrate that various biological agents, including virus particles, mRNA, cytokines and peptides, can be innocuously and directly enriched in the liquid phase. In contrast to the droplet-like coacervates that are prone to aggregation challenges, coacervate vesicles display superior kinetic stability, positioning them as a versatile delivery vehicle for biopharmaceuticals. We validate that incorporating oncolytic viruses into these coacervate vesicles endows them with potent oncolytic efficacy and elicits robust anti-tumour immune responses in mouse models.

Experimental study of extracellular vesicle-small intestine submucosa novel biological composite for urethral stricture repair and reconstruction

Background Urethral stricture (US) is a common condition that considerably affects patients’ quality of life. Objectives This study aimed to explore the adoption value of the extracellular vesicle (EV)- small intestinal submucosa (SIS) complex in the repair of USs. Methods EVs were extracted from healthy male New Zealand white rabbits, and SIS was prepared using peracetic acid (PAA) oxidation and decellularization. The morphology and particle size of the prepared EV-SIS complex were evaluated using electron microscopy and qNano nanoparticle analyzer, and the labeled proteins of EVs were detected using Western blot method. EV-SIS the complex was implanted in a rabbit model of US, and urodynamic parameters were assessed. Results The EV-SIS complex displayed a full morphology, intact membrane structure, and uniform particle size. The protein concentration of EVs in the complex was approximately 0.351 µg/µL, with a yield of approximately 1.86 µg/106 cells. The complex exhibited remarkable repair effects in the rabbit model of US, with bladder capacity, maximal urethral pressure, and minimal urethral pressure all markedly superior to those in the US group ( P < 0.05). Conclusion The EV-SIS complex demonstrates potential clinical value in the repair of USs, improving urodynamic parameters, and offering a promising therapeutic option for patients with US.

SELECTION OF POLYMER FOR STENT-GRAFT COATING IN TERMS OF BIOCOMPATIBILITY AND BIODEGRADATION CHARACTERISTICS

HighlightsCoated stents or stent-grafts are widely used in endovascular surgery to close arterial perforations, dissections and aneurysms, as well as in stenting of arteries with loose atherosclerotic plaques in order to reduce the risk of emboli and strokes. The material of stent coating is of great importance in the prevention of early thrombosis and restenosis of stent grafts. Biodegradable polymers have an advantage over non-biodegradable polymers because they do not remain in the patient's tissues for a long period of time and do not cause chronic inflammation. The study of the dynamics and biodegradation characteristics of polymer coating can provide information about its suitability and safety in the stent graft. Annotation Aim. To screen potentially suitable polymers for stent-graft coating with the following assessment of biocompatibility and biodegradation dynamics in an in vivo experiment.Methods. The coating was applied on the stent by electrospinning from a solution of polymers: Polycaprolactone (PCL); polydioxanone (PDO); polylactide-co-caprolactone (P(LA/CL)) with lactide: caprolactone ratio – 70:30; polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) with lactide: glycolide ratio – 50:50. Chloroform (CHCl3) and 1,1,1,1,3,3,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFP) were used as a solvent. Gore-Tex polymer membrane made of polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) was used as control. In order to evaluate biocompatibility and biodegradation dynamics in vivo, the studied polymeric samples were implanted subcutaneously in male Wistar rats for periods of 7 and 14 days, 1, 2, 3 and 6 months. After explantation all samples were studied histologically.Results. 14 days after implantation a moderate inflammatory reaction developed on all polymer specimens. The PTFE material was separated from the surrounding tissues by a thin ordered fibrous capsule, confirming its satisfactory biocompatible properties. The porous structure of PCL membranes was filled by fibroblasts and the specimens were tightly integrated into the surrounding tissues. P(LA/CL) degrades with the formation of large fragments. The composite polymer P(LA/CL)/PDO degraded to form small fragments that are tightly integrated with the fibrous capsule. PLGA membranes showed high rates of degradation - membrane fragments were detected 3 months after implantation, after 6 months the samples were completely degraded.Conclusion. The results of biocompatibility and biodegradation assessment in vivo indicate that the most promising polymers for stent-graft creation are PCL, PLGA and composite polymer P(LA/CL)/PDO. In order to finalize the choice of polymer, it is necessary to conduct further studies to assess the biocompatibility and degradation of polymer coating during implantation of stent-grafts into the arterial bed of large laboratory animals.

Red blood cell changes due to cancer and cancer treatments: a narrative review.

To date, there is relatively limited research investigating changes in red blood cells (RBCs), particularly qualitative changes, in cancer patients and cancer patients receiving treatment. These changes may be important in better understanding cancer-associated anemia, which is the most prevalent hematological disorder in cancer patients with wide-ranging implications on patient care and quality of life. This review aims to summarize available evidence regarding qualitative and quantitative changes in RBCs in individuals with cancer prior to treatment and in patients undergoing treatment. The most commonly reported changes in RBCs in cancer patients were increased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and decreased hemoglobin, RBC count, and hematocrit. There were increased lipid peroxidation products and decreased antioxidants. There were increased polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and decreased monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and saturated fatty acids (FAs). Additionally, RBC shape alterations with various atypical morphologies, membrane structure abnormalities, and impaired fluidity were also reported. These and various other reported findings are discussed in depth. There are several reported quantitative and qualitative RBC changes in individuals with cancer, with some studies exhibiting conflicting results. Further research is needed to solidify the data and to better understand hematological-associated comorbidities in those patients.

Activation of TMEM16E scramblase induces ligand independent growth factor receptor signaling and macropinocytosis for membrane repair

The calcium-dependent phospholipid scramblase TMEM16E mediates ion transport and lipid translocation across the plasma membrane. TMEM16E also contributes to protection of membrane structure by facilitating cellular repair signaling. Our research reveals that TMEM16E activation promotes macropinocytosis, essential for maintaining plasma membrane integrity. This scramblase externalizes phosphatidylserine, typically linked to resting growth factor receptors. We demonstrate that TMEM16E can interact with and signal through growth factor receptors, including epidermal growth factor receptor, even without ligands. This interaction stimulates downstream phosphoinositide 3-kinase and facilitates macropinocytosis and internalization of annexin V bound to the membrane, a process sensitive to amiloride inhibition. Although TMEM16E is internalized during this process, it returns to the plasma membrane. TMEM16E- driven macropinocytosis is proposed to restore membrane integrity after perturbation, potentially explaining pathologies in conditions like muscular dystrophies, where TMEM16E functionality is compromised, highlighting its critical role in muscle cell survival.

Characterization of Key Lipid Components in the Cell Membrane of Freeze-Drying Resistant Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Strains Using Nontargeted Lipidomics.

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are usually freeze-dried into powder for transportation and storage, with the bacterial membrane playing a crucial role in this process. However, different strains exhibit different levels of freeze-drying resistance in their cell membranes. In this study, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (L. paracasei) strains 1F20, K56, and J5, demonstrating survival rates of 59.51, 25.86, and 4.05% after freeze-drying, respectively, were selected. The membrane structure and composition of these strains were subsequently analyzed. Bacterial live/dead staining results indicated that strain 1F20 maintained the highest membrane integrity after drying. Nontargeted lipidomics analysis revealed six differential lipid species that differed in membrane lipid compositions. KEGG functional enrichment analysis revealed 13 significantly different pathways, with glycerophospholipid metabolism being the most critical. This study explored the membrane composition of L. paracasei at the cellular level and identified key lipid species associated with freeze-drying resistance, providing a reference for screening highly resistant strains.

Origanum syriacum Induces Apoptosis in Lung Cancer Cells by Altering the Ratio of Bax/Bcl2.

The lung cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Although methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy are used for treatment, these treatments are sometimes inadequate. In addition, the number of chemotherapeutic agents used is very limited, and it is very important to use new natural agents that can increase the effect of these methods used in treatment. The present study was designed to determine the suppression of proliferation and induction of apoptosis activities and phenolic content of Origanum syriacum methanol extract (OsME) on lung cancer cells (A549). For this purpose, the cell viability of A549 cells exposed to OsME was first determined. The morphological changes of the cell were observed by an inverted phase contrast microscope. Moreover, the percentage of apoptotic and necrotic cells was determined by FACS with AnnexinV/Propodium iodide staining. Additionally, proapoptotic Bax and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 mRNA levels were determined by Real-time PCR. Phenolic compounds of OsME were detected by LC-MS-MS. It was observed that the viability and proliferation of lung cancer cells decreased after the treatment of different concentrations of OsME. At a concentration of 200 mg/ml of OsME, most of the cell membrane structures were observed to disintegrate. Meanwhile, a 25 μg/ml concentration of OsME increased the Bax expression and percentage of late apoptotic cells. Vanillic acid and luteolin were identified as the main phenolic compounds of OsME. OsME exhibited antiproliferation activity on A549 cells and induced apoptosis at low doses.

Photoinduced Shape Changes of Giant Vesicles Comprising Phospholipids and Azobenzene-Containing Cationic Amphiphiles.

For the development of new functional materials for various applications, such as drug or gene delivery and environmental remediation, the relationship between function and morphology has been considered an important aspect for controlling affinity to the targets. However, there are only a few reports on this relationship because the molecular strategy for the precise control of vesicle shape has been restricted. Herein, we report the photocontrol of vesicle shape using azobenzene-containing amphiphilic switches. The addition of the photoswitches to vesicles composed of phospholipids yielded non-spherical vesicles. They exhibited reversible deformation between a non-spherical and spherical shape in response to ultraviolet and visible light illumination, respectively. From the results of the 1H NMR analyses, fluorescence spectra of the environmentally responsive probes, and Π-A isotherm measurements, the reversible photoresponsivity can be attributed to the changes in the vesicular membrane structures caused by migration of the photoswitches between the aqueous phase and membrane through their photoisomerization.

Simultaneous Removal of Antibiotic-resistant Bacteria, Genes, and Inhibition of Horizontal Transfer using Vis-rGO-CNCF-enhanced Peroxymonosulfate Activation Process

As emerging contaminants, antibiotic-resistant bacteria （ARBs） and antibiotic-resistant genes （ARGs） pose a serious threat to human health and ecological security. Here, a reduced graphene oxide and g-C3N4 co-doped copper ferrite （rGO-CNCF） were synthesized. The composite material was characterized using XRD, FTIR, XPS, SEM-EDS, TEM, and DRS analysis methods, and a visible-light-assisted rGO-CNCF-activated PMS system was constructed for the removal of ARB and ARGs in water. The results showed that the complete inactivation of 8.01 log SA-ARB could be achieved within 30 min when the catalyst dosage was 0.2 g·L-1, The PMS dosage was 0.3 g·L-1, and the initial pH value of the solution was 7.0. The Vis-rGO-CNCF/PMS system was able to effectively reduce the horizontal transfer of SA-ARGs, and this system had a good destructive ability for intracellular and extracellular SA-ARGs. The destruction ability of the advanced oxidation process for the two pollutants together, SMT and SA-ARB, was maintained at a high level. This system could destroy the cell membrane structure of resistant bacteria, causing cell fragmentation, and quenching experiments showed that singlet oxygen （1O2） played a major role in the system. This study can provide a promising method for controlling ARB and ARG pollution in water and controlling the horizontal transfer of ARGs.

Toxic Effects of Butanol in the Plane of the Cell Membrane.

Solvent toxicity limits n-butanol fermentation titer, increasing the cost and energy consumption for subsequent separation processes and making biobased production more expensive and energy-intensive than petrochemical approaches. Amphiphilic solvents such as n-butanol partition into the cell membrane of fermenting microorganisms, thinning the transverse structure, and eventually causing a loss of membrane potential and cell death. In this work, we demonstrate the deleterious effects of n-butanol partitioning upon the lateral dimension of the membrane structure, called membrane domains or lipid rafts. Lipid rafts are regions of the cell membrane enriched with certain lipids, providing a reservoir of high melting temperature lipids and a platform for membrane protein partitioning and oligomerization. Neutron scattering experiments and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that n-butanol increased the size of the lipid domains in a model membrane system. The data showed that n-butanol partitions more into the disordered lipid regions than into the raft-like phase, leading to a differential thinning of these coexisting phases in the plane of the membrane and increasing the hydrophobic mismatch. The resulting increase in line tension at the interface favors domain coalescence to minimize the ratio of the interfacial length to domain area. A detailed computational investigation of the lipid domain interface identifies the boundary as a site of membrane disorder and thinning due to an accumulation of n-butanol. Solvent-induced changes to domain morphology and membrane instability at the domain interface are unrecognized modes of solvent-induced stress to fermenting microbes, representing targets for new solvent tolerance strategies to increase the n-butanol titer.

Enhanced evaporation-induced electricity generation of reduced graphene oxide membrane via graphene quantum dots

Evaporation-induced electricity generation (EIEG) presents a promising alternative to conventional energy conversion technologies by enabling the harvesting of green energy from water. In this study, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were employed to enhance the performance of EIEG in two-dimensional (2D) reduced graphene oxide (RGO) membranes. The GQDs rich in oxygen-containing functional group enhanced the hydrophilicity of the RGO matrix and modified the laminar structure of the RGO membrane, thereby facilitating the transport of water molecules. Moreover, GQDs with a high surface charge reduced the internal resistance of the composite membrane, resulting in an increased open-circuit voltage of 0.12 V and a short-circuit current of 1.11 μA, compared to the pristine RGO. Additionally, the effects of GQDs content, ambient humidity, and evaporating solvent on the performance of EIEG in GQDs/RGO (G-RGO) membrane were investigated. This study demonstrates the key role of GQDs in enhancing the performance of EIEG in graphene-based materials, providing crucial insights for material design.

The Effect of a Secondary Stressor on the Morphology and Membrane Structure of an Already Challenged Maternal and Foetal Red Blood Cell Population.

The red blood cell (RBC) membrane is unique and crucial for maintaining structural-functional relationships. Maternal smoking induces significant changes in the morphological, rheological, and functional parameters of both maternal and foetal RBCs, mainly due to the continuous generation of the free radicals. The major aim of this study was to follow the consequences of a secondary stressor, like fungal infection, on the already compromised RBC populations. The impact of Candida infection, a growing health concern, was investigated on four blood sample groups: mothers and their neonates originating from non-smoking versus smoking populations. Here, we searched for phenotypical and molecular markers that precisely reflected the effect of Candida infection on the RBC membrane; this included the level of hemolysis, appearance of morphological variants, formation of the lipid peroxidation marker 4-hydroxyl-nonenal, arrangement of the Band 3 molecules and activation of the Caspase 3. In most of the examined cases, the fungal infection increased the adverse symptoms induced by smoking, indicating a general stress response, likely due to an altered redox state of the cells. However, we were able to identify an atypical phenotype (clustered populations with shrinkage and membrane blebbing) in both the non-smoking and smoking populations, which might be a unique marker for Candida spp. infection.

Antioxidant and membrane-protective effects of the 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid-cannabigerol system on UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes.

The lack of effective protection against UVB radiation, that severely disrupts the metabolism of keratinocytes, underlines the search for bioactive compounds that would provide effective protection without causing side effects. Therefore, the aim of the study has been to assess the effect of two compounds, that are different in terms of structure and properties: 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid-EAA (a stable derivative of vitamin C) and cannabigerol-CBG, used separately or concurrently, on the metabolism of keratinocytes previously exposed to UVB. The obtained results indicate diverse, yet mutually reinforcing localization of the tested compounds, both within the membrane structures and cytosol. When used concurrently, EAA+CBG effectively prevent modifications of the structure of cell membranes, particularly the increase in their fluidity and permeability caused by UVB. It promotes cell survival and enhances the expression of membrane transporters, especially BCRP. Moreover, the concurrent use of both compounds, by reducing the level of ROS and regulating the expression of both Nrf2 activators (p62, MAPK) and inhibitors (Keap1, Bach1, PAGM5), supports the antioxidant efficiency of cells, visible in the increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD1/2, CAT) and the effectiveness of GSH- and Trx-dependent antioxidant systems. Consequently, oxidative modifications of lipids (assessed as 4-HNE and isoprostanes) and proteins (measured as 4-HNE-protein adducts and carbonyl groups) are reduced. The tested compounds also reveal anti-inflammatory effects by modifying the expression of the activator (p62) and inhibitors (IKKα, IKKβ) of NFκB. The observed EAA+CBG effect in preventing changes in the structure and functionality of keratinocyte membranes, maintaining redox balance, and mitigating inflammatory effects caused by UVB provides the basis for further research.

The influence of temperature induced changes in the composition of MFGM on membrane phase transition and nanomechanical properties.

Biomimetic membrane was investigated as model systems to mimic the structure of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) and to study the effects of thermal processing-induced changes in MFGM fractions on membrane morphology and physical properties. Molecular docking was utilized to screen xanthine oxidase (XO) as the MFGM protein most likely to bind to phospholipid molecules on MFGM. Fluorescence spectroscopy verified that XO formed stable complexes with DOPE, DPPC, and PS 18:0-18:1, with the strongest binding to DOPE. Two types of artificial fat globule membrane (AFGM) were further constructed using XO with phospholipid molecules, including N-AFGM (simulating MFGM in raw milk) and P-AFGM (mimicking MFGM in ultra-pasteurized milk). The results of atomic force microscopy showed that the P-AFGM had significantly less liquid ordered phase (Lo), more aggregation of XO, smoother surface, higher Young's modulus, and more prone to rupture compared to N-AFGM. These results contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between changes of MFGM composition induced by thermal processing and fat globule stability.

Platelet ultrastructural changes stored at room temperature versus cold storage observed by electron microscopy and structured illumination microscopy

Our study seeks to provide a theoretical foundation for the clinical use of Cold-stored platelets (CSPs) by interpreting ultrastructural images and quantitatively analyzing structural changes. CSPs, room temperature-stored platelets (RTPs), and delayed cold stored platelets(Delayed-CSPs) were continuously observed using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy at 8 time points. Super-resolution fluorescence microscopy was employed to observe changes in platelet microtubules and mitochondrial structure and function, while platelet counts, metabolism, and relevant functional indicators were measured concurrently. Quantitative statistical analysis of platelet size, morphology, canalicular systems, and five organelles was performed under electron microscopy. CSPs stored for 1 day, platelet shape changed from circular or elliptical to spherical, with size decreasing from 2.8 × 2.2µm to 2.0 × 2.0µm. CSPs occurred wrinkling and reorganization of platelet microtubule proteins, with organelles aggregating towards the central region. CSPs stored for 14 days and Delayed-CSPs for 10 days exhibited numerous structurally intact and active cells. The structure-intact active cells in both group were 92% . RTPs stored for 5 and 7 days showed minimal changes in size, a normal microtubule skeleton, and were primarily in a resting state. However, RTPs stored for 10 and 14 days displayed swelling, irregular disintegration of the microtubule skeleton, and the presence of membranous structures and vacuolated cells,the structure-intact active cells was only 45% and 7%, respectively. Our findings confirmed that the maximum storage time of platelets was 5-7 days for RTPs, within 10 days for Delayed-CSPs, and 14 days for CSPs.

Cold stimulated bronchial epithelial cells derived exosomes HMGB1 aggravates bronchial epithelial cells injury.

The aim of this study was to reveal the mechanism of cold stimulation (CS)-bronchial epithelial cells (BECs) derived exosomes (CS-BECs-exo) aggravated sepsis induced acute lung injury (SALI). CS-BECs-exo were separated by differential centrifugation and were characterized. Proteomics, immunoprecipitation, and RAGE knockout (RAGE) mice were used to investigate the mechanism of CS-BECs-exo aggravated SALI. The results of transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed that CS-BECs-exo showed a double-layer membrane structure like a saucer. Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) particle size analysis showed that the average particle size of CS-BECs-exo was 123.6 nm. The results of proteomics showed that the expression level HMGB1 was significantly increased in CS-BECs-exo compared with BECs-exo. CS-BECs-exo significantly increased oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction of SALI. In addition, CS-BECs-exo significantly increased RAGE and decreased the levels of Nrf-2 and OH-1. RAGE knockout (RAGE KO) and silence of RAGE (RAGE siRNA) significantly canceled the effects of CS-BECs-exo on SALI. HMGB1 knockout (HMGB1) and silence of HMGB1 also significantly (HMGB1 siRNA) canceled the effects of CS-BECs-exo on SALI. In conclusion, CS-BECs-exo aggravated ALI in sepsis via HMGB1/RAGE/Nrf-2/OH-1 signal pathway.

The role of lipid metabolism in cognitive impairment

AbstractAlzheimer's disease (AD), diabetic cognitive impairment (DCI), and vascular dementia (VD) are considered the most common causes of severe cognitive impairment in clinical practice. Numerous factors can influence their progression, and many studies have recently revealed that metabolic disorders play crucial roles in the progression of cognitive impairment. Mounting evidence indicate that the regulation of lipid metabolism is a major factor in maintaining brain homeostasis. Generally, abnormalities in lipid metabolism can affect amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition, tau hyperphosphorylation, and insulin resistance through lipid metabolic signaling cascades; affect the neuronal membrane structure, neurotransmitter synthesis and release; and promote synapse growth, which can impact neural signal transmission and exacerbate disease progression in individuals with cognitive impairment, including AD, DCI, and VD. Moreover, apolipoprotein E (APOE), a key protein in lipid transport, is involved in the occurrence and development of the aforementioned diseases by regulating lipid metabolism. The present article mainly discusses how lipid metabolic disorders in the brain microenvironment are involved in regulating the progression of cognitive impairment, and it explores the regulatory effects of targeting the key lipid transport protein APOE in the context of the role of lipid metabolism in the common pathogenesis of three diseases—Aβ deposition, tau hyperphosphorylation, and insulin resistance—which will help elucidate the potential of targeting lipid metabolism for the treatment of cognitive impairment.