S100A4 Expression Research Articles

EXTH-78. A NOVEL BISPECIFIC S100A4/TFR ANTIBODY TO REPROGRAM THE GLIOMA TUMOR MICROENVIRONMENT AND TARGET GLIOMA STEM CELLS

Abstract GBM (glioblastoma) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. While immunotherapy is a promising treatment modality for GBM, most clinical trials have thus far only provided a modest benefit to GBM patients. We propose that enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy for GBM requires approaches that increase T cell infiltration and reprogram the myeloid cells to a more pro-inflammatory state. S100A4 is a major regulator of stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and a critical regulator of immune suppressive myeloid and T cell phenotypes in GBM. Targeting S100A4 in either glioma or stromal cells is sufficient to reprogram the tumor immune landscape and extend survival of glioma bearing mice, indicating that S100A4 is a promising immunotherapy target. We recently developed a S100A4 blocking monoclonal antibody; however, this antibody does not cross the blood brain barrier (BBB) efficiently to confer significant therapeutic benefit, limiting its efficacy in treating GBM. To overcome this challenge, we generated a bispecific S100A4-TfR antibody (BsA) that allows robust BBB penetration, and tested this in a pre-clinical syngeneic, orthotopic mouse model of GBM. Using ELISA, confocal immunofluorescent microscopy, flow cytometry, and bulk RNA sequencing, we report that systemic administration of the S100A4-TfR BsA results in increased immune cell infiltration with a preferential increase in CD4 T cell infiltration, and potent immune remodeling of the tumor microenvironment to a more pro-inflammatory state. Furthermore, the BsA is taken up by glioma cells intracellularly, which is correlated with depletion of intracellular S100A4 and decreased nuclear SOX2 localization, which would reduce stemness of glioma cells. Functionally, in vitro BsA treatment of primary glioma cell cultures shows decreased S100A4 expression, proliferation, and self-renewal. Our results suggest that S100A4-TfR BsA is a novel dual activity inhibitor to simultaneously reprogram the GBM immune landscape and reduce glioma stemness.

Role of the alarmin S100A9 in the pathogenesis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Abstract Background A systemic low-grade inflammation induced by comorbidities is recognized to underlie heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)-specific remodelling. Recent evidence states that the innate immunity member S100A9, which is mainly present as the heterodimer S100A8/9, is an important contributor of sterile inflammation in the comorbidities of HFpEF, with adipose tissue being an important source. Though, its specific involvement in HFpEF has not been explored so far. Purpose The present study aimed to unravel the role of S100A9 in the pathogenesis of HFpEF via the two-hit HFpEF mouse model, S100A8/9 stimulation on murine left ventricle (LV) and C4 fibroblasts (Fb) and gene expression analysis of endomyocardial biopsy (EMB)-derived Fb from HFpEF and HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients. Methods Wild type (WT) C57BL/6JN or S100A9 knock-out (ko) mice were exposed to a high-fat diet (HFD) and L-NAME (1 g/L in drinking water) over 15 weeks. Controls received standard diet. LV function was characterized via conductance catheter measurements. At the day of sacrifice, the LV, spleen, blood, and adipose tissue were collected for subsequent analyses. In vitro, murine LV-derived Fb and C4 Fb were stimulated with the heterodimer S100A8/9. EMB-Fb from HFpEF and HFrEF patients were screened for S100A9 and downstream components of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Results WT HFD+L-NAME mice exhibited a preserved EF, combined with a reduced LV relaxation (dP/dtmin; p<0.01), elevated LV relaxation time (Tau; p<0.05), and impaired LV contractility (dP/dtmax; p<0.05), in parallel to a low-grade systemic inflammation evident by increased C-reactive protein levels. S100A9+, CD68+ and Ly6G+ cells, and CD68+ and Ly6G+ cells expressing S100A9 were increased in the LV, spleen and adipose tissue of WT HFD+L-NAME mice compared to WT mice on chow diet. Changes in LV function were less pronounced in S100A9ko HFD+L-NAME mice, which were characterized by lower systemic C-reactive protein levels, and lower presence of CD68+ and Ly6G+ cells in the LV, spleen and adipose tissue versus WT HFD+L-NAME mice, in the absence of S100A9. Moreover, S100A9ko HFD+L-NAME exhibited lower expression of pro-inflammatory and fibrosis-related genes versus WT HFD+L-NAME mice. Stimulation of murine LV-Fb and C4 Fb with S100A8/A9 increased the mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory chemokines chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL) 2 and CCL7, and the % of NLRP3-, ASC-, caspase 1-, and IL-1ß-expressing cells, respectively. Finally, mRNA expression of S100A9 and components of the NLRP3 inflammasome was higher in EMB-Fb of HFpEF versus HFrEF patients. Conclusion These data support that adipose tissue is an extra-cardiac source of S100A9 contributing to systemic low-grade inflammation. S100A8/9 in the heart can boost the inflammatory potential of cardiac fibroblasts, further supporting the pro-inflammatory role of S100A9 in the pathogenesis of HFpEF development.

Single-cell RNA sequencing uncovers molecular mechanisms of intravenous immunoglobulin plus methylprednisolone in Kawasaki disease: attenuated monocyte-driven inflammation and improved NK cell cytotoxicity

IntroductionIntravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) plus methylprednisolone as initial intensive therapy or additional therapy in Kawasaki disease (KD) has been used in clinical practice. However, its molecular and cellular mechanism is unclear.MethodsWe performed single-cell analysis on 14 peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples obtained from 7 KD patients who received either IVIG monotherapy or IVIG plus methylprednisolone therapy. This encompassed 4 samples from KD patients collected before and after IVIG treatment, as well as 3 samples from KD patients before and after IVIG plus methylprednisolone therapy.ResultsBoth IVIG monotherapy and IVIG plus methylprednisolone therapy can increase lymphocyte counts (e.g. CD4+T, CD8+T, and gdT cells) to address lymphopenia. They can also decrease monocyte counts and repress the expression of S100A12, NLRP3, and genes associated with immune-cell migration in monocytes. IVIG combined with methylprednisolone downregulates more monocyte-driven inflammatory pathways than IVIG alone. Additionally, this combination uniquely enhances NK cell cytotoxicity by modulating receptor homeostasis, while significantly upregulating interferon-related genes in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and B cells, particularly type I interferons.ConclusionThe combination of IVIG with methylprednisolone attenuated monocyte-driven inflammation and improved NK cell cytotoxicity which might provide clues for pediatricians to consider treatment options for children with KD. Whether the monocyte-driven hyperinflammatory state and NK cell function can be indicators for the clinical choice of IVIG with methylprednisolone therapy in KD needs further investigation.

SnRNA-seq of adipose tissues reveals the potential cellular and molecular mechanisms of cold and disease resistance in Mongolian cattle

BackgroundMongolian cattle are local breeds in northern China with excellent adaptability to harsh environmental conditions. Adipose tissues play essential roles in tolerance to cold and disease, but the associated cellular and molecular mechanisms are unclear.MethodsSingle-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) was performed on the adipose tissues from the subcutaneous (SAT), greater omentum (OAT) and perirenal (PAT) of 3 healthy cattle. The adipogenic trajectory was analyzed, and the functional roles of gene of interest were verified in vitro.ResultsThere were different cell subpopulations in adipose tissues. The lipid-deposition adipocytes identified by the PTGER3 marker exhibited outstanding characteristics in SAT. In PAT and OAT, aldosterone was expressed to provide clues for the differential brown adipocytes. Among the DEGs by comparing OAT with SAT and PAT with OAT, C3 was significantly expressed in most of the cell populations in SAT. G0S2, LIPE, LPIN1, PTGER3 and RGCC took part in the adipogenic trajectory from preadipocyte commitment to mature adipocytes. S100A4 expression affected Ca2+ signaling and the expression of UCP1 ~ 3, FABP4 and PTGER3.ConclusionThe cell heterogeneity and genes expressed in adipose tissues of Mongolian cattle not only determine the endocrine and energy storage, but contribute to adapt to cold and disease resistance.

S100A16 stabilizes the ITGA3‑mediated ECM‑receptor interaction pathway to drive the malignant properties of lung adenocarcinoma cells via binding MOV10.

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is highly associated with lung cancer‑associated mortality. Notably, S100 calcium‑binding protein A16 (S100A16) has been increasingly considered to have prognostic value in LUAD; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, S100A16 expression levels in LUAD tissues and cells were respectively analyzed by the UALCAN database and western blotting. Cell Counting Kit‑8 and 5‑ethynyl‑2'‑deoxyuridine assays were used to examine cell proliferation, whereas wound healing, Transwell and tube formation assays were used to assess cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis, respectively. Western blotting was also used to examine the expression levels of proteins associated with metastasis, angiogenesis, focal adhesion and the extracellular matrix (ECM)‑receptor interaction pathways. The relationship between S100A16 and Mov10 RNA helicase (MOV10) was predicted by bioinformatics tools, and was verified using a co‑immunoprecipitation assay. Furthermore, the interaction between MOV10 and integrin α3 (ITGA3) was verified by RNA immunoprecipitation assay, and the actinomycin D assay was used to detect ITGA3 mRNA stability. The results demonstrated that S100A16 expression was increased in LUAD tissues and cell lines, and was associated with unfavorable outcomes. Knocking down S100A16 expression hindered the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of LUAD cells. Furthermore, S100A16 was shown to bind to MOV10 and positively modulate MOV10 expression in LUAD cells, while MOV10 overexpression partially reversed the suppressive role of S100A16 knockdown on the aggressive phenotypes of LUAD cells. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that S100A16 regulated the stability of ITGA3 mRNA via MOV10 to mediate ECM‑receptor interactions. In conclusion, S100A16 may bind to MOV10 to stabilize ITGA3 mRNA and regulate ECM‑receptor interactions, hence contributing to the malignant progression of LUAD.

MiR-24 regulates obstructive pulmonary disease in rats via S100A8

Purpose Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a persistent inflammatory disorder characterized by minor airway inflammation and emphysema involving various cell types and cytokines. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators in the pathogenesis of lung diseases. This study investigates the impact of microRNA-24 (miR-24) on airway inflammatory responses in a rat model of COPD. Materials and methods The model was established by combining cigarette smoke exposure and lipopolysaccharide stimulation, and rat lung tissues were transfected with adeno-associated viruses overexpressing miR-24. Pathological changes in the lung were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and interleukin-8, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of miR-24 and S100A8 was detected through quantitative reverse transcription PCR, while protein levels of S100A8, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) were assessed using western blotting. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assay were performed to determine the relationship between S100A8 and miR-24. Results The results demonstrated the downregulation of miR-24 in rats with COPD, and its overexpression resulted in a significant decrease in S1008 mRNA levels. Additionally, the protein level of S100A8 was significantly increased in the lung tissues of COPD rats. The upregulation of miR-24, however, not only inhibited the protein expression of S100A8, TLR4, and MyD88 in lung tissues but also reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, thereby attenuating inflammatory responses and pathological injuries in the lung. Conclusions Our data suggest that miR-24 attenuates airway inflammatory responses in COPD by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88 pathway via targeting S100A8.

Unveiling the pan-cancer landscape of S100A16: A comprehensive analysis of prognostic significance, drug sensitivity, and immunomodulatory roles.

Accumulating evidence supports the notion that S100A16 exhibits differential expression in many human cancers, affecting cellular functions associated with tumorigenesis through various signaling pathways. While extensive research has been conducted on S100A16 in specific cancer types, a comprehensive evaluation of its role across diverse cancers remains lacking. To explore the prognostic significance, drug sensitivity, and immunomodulatory roles of S100A16, a thorough analysis was conducted at a pan-cancer level using multiple databases. Our findings revealed high expression of S100A16 RNA in various human cancers. Importantly, this elevated expression was linked to disease prognosis and drug sensitivity across a spectrum of cancers. Genetic alterations in S100A16 were characterized across multiple cancer types, and a confirmed correlation was observed in the prognosis of skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM). Furthermore, our study demonstrated a significant association between S100A16 expression and the infiltrating levels of diverse cell types in the tumor microenvironment (TME), suggesting its potential as a prognosis predictor for immunotherapy. Novel collections of miRNAs, such as has-miR-423-5p, has-miR-769-5p, has-miR-151a-3p, and has-miR-550a-5p, targeting S100A16 at a pan-cancer level were predicted through various databases. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding the role of S100A16 in prognosis prediction, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, providing valuable insights for identifying novel targets in cancer treatment.

S100A7 orchestrates neutrophil chemotaxis and drives neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation to facilitate lymph node metastasis in cervical cancer patients

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been shown to promote the metastatic potential of many kinds of tumors. Our study aimed to investigate the role and mechanisms of NETs in lymph node metastasis (LNM) of cervical cancer (CCa), and evaluated the therapeutic value of targeting NETs in CCa. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that neutrophil infiltration and NETs formation were increased in CCa patients with LNM, as well as confirming a positive correlation between S100A7 expression and neutrophil infiltration in CCa. NETs enhanced the migratory capability of CCa by activating the P38-MAPK/ERK/NFκB pathway through interaction with TLR2. Digesting NETs with deoxyribonuclease 1 (DNase 1) or inhibiting TLR2 with chloroquine eliminated the NETs-induced metastatic potential of CCa. Additionally, NETs promoted lymphangiogenesis and increased the permeability of lymphatic vessels, thus facilitating translymphatic movement of CCa. CCa-derived S100A7 exhibited a chemotactic effect on neutrophils and promoted NETs generation by elevating ROS levels rather than activating autophagy in neutrophils. The mouse model with footpad implantation illustrated that DNase 1 effectively reduced LNM in LPS-induced mice and in mice seeded with S100A7-overexpressing CCa cells. In conclusion, our study reveals a new tumor-promoting mechanism of S100A7, clarifies the crucial role and mechanism of NETs in LNM of CCa, and indicates that the NETs-targeted therapy emerges as a promising anti-metastasis therapy in CCa.

Amlexanox reduces new-onset atrial fibrillation risk in sepsis by downregulating S100A12: a Mendelian randomization study.

Sepsis is characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates, alongside limited therapeutic efficacy. Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia, has been closely linked to sepsis in prior research. However, the specific mechanisms through which sepsis leads to new-onset AF remain poorly understood. This study focuses on identifying critical genes that are dysregulated in the development of new-onset AF within the context of sepsis, with the goal of uncovering new potential targets for its diagnosis and prevention. Our study began by applying Mendelian Randomization (MR) to assess the causal link between sepsis and AF. We then sourced sepsis and AF datasets from the Gene expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), we pinpointed key modules and genes associated with both sepsis and AF conditions. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. The Transcriptional Regulatory Relationships Unravelled by Sentence-based Text-mining (TRRUST) database helped build the transcription factor (TF) interaction network. Key genes were scrutinized through Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) to delve into their roles in new-onset AF's pathophysiology during sepsis. We employed the CIBERSORT algorithm to evaluate immune infiltration and the association between key genes and immune cells. The Connectivity Map (CMap) database facilitated the prediction of potential small molecule compounds targeting key genes. To culminate, an acute sepsis mouse model was developed to validate the implicated mechanisms of key genes involved in new-onset AF during sepsis, and to assess the prophylactic effectiveness of identified drug candidates. MR revealed potential independent risk factors for new-onset AF in sepsis. S100A12 was identified as a core interaction gene with elevated levels in sepsis and AF, underscoring its diagnostic and predictive significance. S100A12, along with associated genes, was mainly linked to immune and inflammatory response signaling pathways, correlating with immune cell levels. Targeting S100A12 identifies five potential small molecule therapeutics: amlexanox, balsalazide, methandriol, olopatadine, and tiboloe. In animal studies, acute sepsis increased S100A12 expression in serum and atrial tissues, correlating positively with inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and negatively with heart rate, indicating a predisposition to AF. Early amlexanox administration can reduced S100A12 expression, dampened inflammation, and lessened new-onset AF risk in sepsis. This study demonstrates that sepsis may independently increase the risk of new-onset AF. We identified S100A12 as a key gene influencing the new-onset AF in sepsis through immune regulation, presenting considerable diagnostic and predictive value. Notably, amlexanox, by targeting S100A12 emerges as the most clinical relevant intervention for managing new-onset AF in sepsis patients.

S100A2 activation promotes interstitial fibrosis in kidneys by FoxO1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition

BackgroundRenal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is a common feature of chronic kidney diseases (CKD), with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) being one of its important mechanisms. S100A2 is a protein associated with cell proliferation and differentiation, but its specific functions and molecular mechanisms in RIF remain to be determined.MethodsS100A2 levels were evaluated in three mouse models, including unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), and aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN), as well as in TGF-β1- treated HK-2 cells and in kidney tissue samples. Furthermore, the role of S100A2 and its interaction with FoxO1 was investigated using RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence staining, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), transcriptome sequencing, and gain- or loss-of-function approaches in vitro.ResultsElevated expression levels of S100A2 were observed in three mouse models and TGF-β1-treated HK2 cells, as well as in kidney tissue samples. Following siRNA silencing of S100A2, exposure to TGF-β1 in cultured HK-2 cells suppressed EMT process and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Conversely, Overexpression of S100A2 induced EMT and ECM deposition. Notably, we identified that S100A2-mediated EMT depends on FoxO1. Immunofluorescence staining indicated that S100A2 and FoxO1 colocalized in the nucleus and cytoplasm, and their interaction was verified in Co-IP assay. S100A2 knockdown decreased TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of FoxO1 and increased its protein expression, whereas S100A2 overexpression hampered FoxO1 activation. Furthermore, pharmacological blockade of FoxO1 rescued the induction of TGF-β1 on EMT and ECM deposition in S100A2 siRNA-treated cells.ConclusionS100A2 activation exacerbates interstitial fibrosis in kidneys by facilitating FoxO1-mediated EMT.Graphical abstractA schematic diagram of the underlying mechanisms by which S100A2 regulates EMT and renal fibrosis. Following injury, the cytoplasmic expression of S100A2 in renal tubular epithelial cells is markedly elevated. This increase promotes the phosphorylation of FoxO1, preventing its translocation into the nucleus and enhances EMT and extracellular matrix ECM deposition, thereby exacerbating renal interstitial fibrosis.

The levels of amino acid metabolites in serum induce the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis by mediating the inflammatory protein S100A12

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting tens of millions of people globally. The causal relationship between metabolites and AD pathology has not yet been formally indicated, and the mediating mechanism by which metabolites affect AD has not yet been explored. This study aimed to determine the genetic relationship between metabolites and AD and to determine the pathways through which amino acid metabolites affect AD. Meta-analysis integrates the results of multiple GWAS analyses using METAL software. Using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR), we analyzed the causal relationships between metabolites and AD. The principal MR test of causal effects was conducted using inverse-variance weighted regression, and we used reverse MR analysis to exclude reverse causality. We also performed the MR-PRESSO test to detect and correct for possible pleiotropic effects, and used the Cochran Q test to assess heterogeneity. Two-step MR was utilized to analyze the mediating factors between amino acid metabolites and the onset of AD. The correlation between mediating factors (inflammatory protein S100A12) and immune cell infiltration was analyzed using the edgeR and GSVA software packages. Using single-cell sequencing data from skin tissues of patients with AD, we studied the regulatory role of the S100A12 gene in immune cells. Multiple drug databases and macromolecular docking were used to search for S100A12-targeting drugs. Bidirectional two-sample MR analyses indicated that twenty-two metabolites and one inflammatory protein (S100A12) were significantly associated with AD pathogenesis. S100A12 is a mediator of amino acid metabolites (N6-methyllysine; N2-acetyl,N6,N6-dimethyllysine and N6,N6-dimethyllysine) that are genetically associated with AD. S100A12 was positively correlated with the infiltration of multiple immune cell types in lesional AD skin. The amino acid metabolites N6-methyllysine; N2-acetyl,N6,N6-dimethyllysine and N6,N6-dimethyllysine influence AD pathogenesis by mediating S100A12 expression.

TMT-Based Quantitative Proteomic Profiling of Human Esophageal Cancer Cells Reveals the Potential Mechanism and Potential Therapeutic Targets Associated With Radioresistance.

The recurrence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in radiation therapy treatment presents a complex challenge due to its resistance to radiation. However, the mechanism underlying the development of radioresistance in ESCC remains unclear. In this study, we aim to uncover the mechanisms underlying radioresistance in ESCC cells and identify potential targets for radiosensitization. We established two radio-resistant cell lines, TE-1R and KYSE-150R, from the parental ESCC cell lines TE-1 and KYSE-150 through fractionated irradiation. A TMT-based quantitative proteomic profiling approach was applied to identify changes in protein expression patterns. Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, γH2AX foci immunofluorescence and comet assays were utilized to validate our findings. The downstream effectors of the DNA repair pathway were confirmed using an HR/NHEJ reporter assay and Western blot analysis. Furthermore, we evaluated the expression of potential targets in ESCC tissues through immunohistochemistry combined with mass spectrometry. Over 2,000 proteins were quantitatively identified in the ESCC cell lysates. A comparison with radio-sensitive cells revealed 61 up-regulated and 14 down-regulated proteins in the radio-resistant cells. Additionally, radiation treatment induced 24 up-regulated and 12 down-regulated proteins in the radio-sensitive ESCC cells. Among the differentially expressed proteins, S100 calcium binding protein A6 (S100A6), glutamine gamma-glutamyltransferase 2 (TGM2), glycogen phosphorylase, brain form (PYGB), and Thymosin Beta 10 (TMSB10) were selected for further validation studies as they were found to be over-expressed in the accumulated radio-resistant ESCC cells and radio-resistant cells. Importantly, high S100A6 expression showed a positive correlation with cancer recurrence in ESCC patients. Our results suggest that several key proteins, including S100A6, TGM2, and PYGB, play a role in the development of radioresistance in ESCC. Our results revealed that several proteins including Protein S100-A6 (S100A6), Protein-glutamine gamma-glutamyltransferase 2 (TGM2), Glycogen phosphorylase, brain form (PYGB) were involved in radio-resistance development. These proteins could potentially serve as biomarkers for ESCC radio-resistance and as therapeutic targets to treat radio-resistant ESCC cells.

S100A9 induces tissue remodeling of human nasal epithelium in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyp.

Chronic inflammation triggers tissue remodeling in human nasal epithelial (HNE) cells. S100A9, a protein secreted by inflammatory cells, exhibits potent proinflammatory activity. However, its effect on HNE cell remodeling, such as squamous metaplasia, remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effects and underlying pathways of S100A9 on HNE cell remodeling and investigate its clinical implications in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Cultured HNE cells were treated with S100A9. Bulk RNA sequencing was performed to analyze gene ontology (GO). Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were also analyzed. Additionally, immunohistochemistry and multiplex immunofluorescence were performed on tissue samples obtained from 60 patients, whose clinical informations were also reviewed. GO enrichment analysis indicated that S100A9 induced tissue remodeling in HNE cells toward squamous metaplasia. IPA and KEGG commonly showed that S100A9 affected HNE cells associated with the IL-17 signaling pathway, including target molecules such as matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) and small proline-rich protein 2A (SPRR2A). Squamous metaplasia with a marked expression of S100A9 was observed in 50% of CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNPs). In addition, in multiplex immunofluorescence, the S100A9 in sub-epithelium was co-expressed with myeloperoxidase, a neutrophil marker, and MMP1 and SPRR2A were strongly expressed in epithelial remodeling. Clinically, the expression of S100A9 correlated with sino-nasal outcome test-22 (r=0.294, p=0.022) and Lund-Mackay scores (r=0.348, p=0.006). S100A9 induces tissue remodeling in HNE cells. Its increased expression in CRSwNP, particularly squamous epithelium, correlates with disease severity. This suggests the clinical potential of S100A9 as a biomarker for CRS severity.

Immune Subtypes and Characteristics of Endometrial Cancer Based on Immunogenes.

The aim of this study was to explore the immune subtypes of endometrial cancer (EC) and its characteristics by immunogenes from the perspective of multidimensional genomics (multi-omics). Immune subtypes were carried out using an unsupervised non-negative matrix factorization clustering (NMF) method and their characteristics were analysed. Key genes were identified using random forest analysis. A predictive model for immune subtypes and their clinical prognosis were constructed. The relationship between immune subtypes and molecular subtypes was investigated. Two immune subtypes C1 and C2 were available. C2 patients were younger, less graded, had significantly higher immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint expression, tumor neoantigens, tumor mutation load than C1 (P<005). S100A9, CD3D, CD3E, HLA-DRB1 and IL2RB were the key genes with significant survival outcomes. S100A9 expression was lower in C2 than C1, and IL2RB, HLA-DRB1, CD3E and CD3D expression was higher than C1 (P<0.05). The predictive accuracy of five key genes for immune subtypes was good, with a Receiver operating characteristic of 0.941. The incidence of TP53abn type in C2 was significantly lower than that of C1, and the incidence of POLE type was significantly higher than that of C1 (P<0.0001). EC can be divided into two immune subtypes based on immunogenes. Low expression of S100A9 and high expression of IL2RB, HLA-DRB1, CD3E, and CD3D suggest sensitivity to immunotherapy and a good prognosis.

RelB and C/EBPα critically regulate the development of Peyer’s patch mononuclear phagocytes

To establish protection against harmful foreign antigens, the small intestine harbors guardian sites called Peyer’s patches (PPs). PPs take up antigens through microfold (M) cells and transfer them to the sub-epithelial dome (SED), which contains a high density of mononuclear phagocytes (MPs), for T cell-priming. Accumulating evidence indicates that SED-MPs have unique functions other than T cell-priming to facilitate mucosal immune responses; however, the crucial factors regulating the functions of SED-MPs have not been determined. Here we performed transcriptome analysis, and identified the gene signatures of SED-MPs. Further data interpretation with transcription factor (TF) enrichment analysis estimated TFs responsible for the functions of SED-MPs. Among them, we found that RelB and C/EBPα were preferentially activated in SED-MPs. RelB-deficiency silenced the expression of IL-22BP and S100A4 by SED-MPs. On the other hand, C/EBPα-deficiency decreased the expression of lysozyme by SED-MPs, resulting the increased invasion of orally administered pathogenic bacteria into PPs and mesenteric lymph nodes. Our findings thus demonstrate that RelB and C/EBPα are essential to regulate the functions of SED-MPs.

Pyroptosis-related genes features on prediction of the prognosis in liver cancer: An integrated analysis of bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing

ObjectiveThis study explores the impact of pyroptosis-related genes (PRG) on the prognosis of liver cancer (LC). Methods421 samples (371 tumor samples and 50 normal samples) from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were included in this study. GSE14520 dataset (data of RNA expression and relevant clinicopathological features), GSE125449 dataset (single-cell data in LC) and HCCDB18 dataset (validation on the reliability of the model) were downloaded as appropriate. Download the PRG and its corresponding pathway information from the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) website. The consensus clustering was performed by ConsensusClusterPlus package. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using limma package, and prognostic features were constructed using un/multivariate and Lasso Cox regression. Pathway enrichment analysis was conducted by ssGSEA method. Receiver Operating Characteristic and the survival analysis were conducted by timeROC and Survminer packages. The Seurat package was used for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. For cellular validation, following the quantification on the key genes via reverse-transcription quantitative PCR, the Transwell and scratch assays were applied to evaluate the in-vitro invasion and migration of LC cells Huh-7. Results12 prognosis-related genes were identified to be related to the progression of LC. Three subtypes including C1, C2 and C3 were categorized using the 12 prognosis-related genes and PRGs significantly related to the prognosis of LC patients. The worst and best prognosis was seen in C3 subtype and C2 subtype, respectively. Hallmark pathway enrichment analysis has shown the concurrent immunoactivation and immune escape in C3 subtype. A RiskScore model was constructed using 8 key genes (KPNA2, UCK2, FTCD, CBX2, RAB32, HMMR, S100A9 and ANXA10) from the DEGs of three subtypes. The RiskScore system as an independent prognostic factor dividing the patients into high and low risk groups, and patients of the high-risk group had poor prognosis in both test set and validation set. A nomogram model combining the risk score had the extreme higher benefit. Further, 6 subclusters were identified from scRNA-seq analysis, where the highest PYROPTOSIS score was seen in Monocytic-Macrophages. The quantification on the key genes has suggested the high expressions of KPNA2, UCK2, CBX2, RAB32, HMMR and S100A9 and the low expressions of FTCD and ANXA10 in LC cells Huh-7. Particularly, UCK2 knockdown evidently diminished the number of invaded and migrated LC cells in vitro. ConclusionThe risk model associated with pyproptosis is crucial for the tumor immunity of LC and may serve as a prognostic indicator for patients suffering from LC. Our findings will offer new perspectives for immunotherapies targeting LC.

Dysregulated S100A9 Expression Impairs Matrix Deposition in Chronic Wounds.

Chronic non-healing wounds are characterized by persistent inflammation, excessive matrix-degrading proteolytic activity and compromised extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis. Previous studies showed that S100A8/A9 are strongly dysregulated in delayed wound healing and impair the proper function of immune cells. Here, we demonstrate an unrecognized pathological function of S100A9 overexpression in wounds with impaired healing that directly affects ECM functions in fibroblasts. S100A9 was analyzed in two different mouse models mimicking the features of the two most prominent types of non-healing wounds in humans. Db/db mice were used as a model for diabetes-associated impaired wound healing. Iron-overloaded mice were used to mimic the conditions of impaired wound healing in chronic venous leg ulcers. The skin wounds of both mouse models are characterized by delayed wound closure, high and sustained expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and a substantially decreased ECM deposition, all together the hallmarks of non-healing wounds in humans. The wounds of both mouse models also present a solid and prolonged expression of S100A8 and S100A9 that coincides with a compromised ECM deposition and that was confirmed in chronic wounds in humans. Mechanistically, we reveal that S100A9 directly affects ECM deposition by shifting the balance of expression of ECM proteins and ECM degrading enzymes in fibroblasts via toll-like-receptor 4-dependent signaling. Consequently, blocking S100A9 during delayed wound healing in db/db mice restores fibroblast ECM functions eliciting increased matrix deposition. Our data indicate that the dysregulation of S100A9 directly contributes to a compromised ECM deposition in chronic wounds and further suggests S100A9 as a promising therapeutic target to improve tissue repair in chronic wounds.

Netrin-1-CD146 and netrin-1-S100A9 are associated with early stage of lymph node metastasis in colorectal cancer

BackgroundThe netrin-1/CD146 pathway regulates colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastasis, angiogenesis, and vascular development. However, few investigations have yet examined the biological function of netrin-1/CD146 complex in CRC. In this work, we investigated the relationship between the netrin-1/CD146 axis and S100 proteins in sentinel lymph node, and revealed a possible new clue for vascular metastasis of CRC.MethodsThe expression levels of netrin-1 and CD146 proteins in CRC, as well as S100A8 and S100A9 proteins in the sentinel lymph nodes were determined by immunohistochemistry. Using GEPIA and UALCAN, we analyzed netrin-1 and CD146 gene expression in CRC, their association with CRC stage, and their expression levels and prognosis in CRC patients.ResultsThe expression level of netrin-1 in N1a+1b (CRC lymphatic metastasis groups, exculded N1c) was positively increased with N0 (p = 0.012). The level of netrin-1 protein was positively correlated with CD146 protein (p < 0.05). The level of S100A9 protein was positively correlated with CD146 protein (r = 0.492, p = 0.007). Moreover, netrin-1 expression was obviously correlated with S100A9 expression in the N1 stage (r = 0.867, p = 0.000). CD146 level was correlated with S100A9 level in the N2 stage (r = 0.731, p = 0.039). CD146 mRNA expression was higher in normal colorectal tissues than in CRC (p < 0.05). Netrin-1 and CD146 expression were not significantly associated with the tumor stages and prognosis of patients with CRC (p > 0.05).ConclusionsThe netrin-1/CD146 and netrin-1/S100A9 axis in CRC tissues might related with early stage of lymph node metastasis, thus providing potential novel channels for blocking lymphatic metastasis and guiding biomarker discovery in CRC patients.

Microbiota-induced S100A11-RAGE axis underlies immune evasion in right-sided colon adenomas and is a therapeutic target to boost anti-PD1 efficacy

BackgroundTumourigenesis in right-sided and left-sided colons demonstrated distinct features.ObjectiveWe aimed to characterise the differences between the left-sided and right-sided adenomas (ADs) representing the early stage of colonic tumourigenesis.DesignSingle-cell and spatial...

Diterpene glycosides from Fructus Rubi ameliorates benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats through the androgen and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

Fructus Rubi (FR), a food material with medicinal value, is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treatment of various kidney-related problems, such as impotence, spermatorrhea, and frequent urination. It is also frequently used to produce diverse functional foods in China. The purpose of this research was to assess the therapeutic effects of FR diterpene glycosides on RWPE-1 epithelial cell (RWPE-1), a human normal prostatic epithelial cell, and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) rats, both of which had been exposed to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and testosterone propionate (TP), respectively, and to investigate the mechanism of action. Target proteins that could stably bind to certain diterpene glycosides were screened through drug affinity responsive target stability combined with mass spectrometry (DARTS/MS). DHT-induced RWPE-1cells were used to detect drug activity. TP was subcutaneously injected to induce BPH in rats. The extract of diterpene glycosides from FR (FDS) was orally administered for 28 days. The DHT levels in the serum and prostate tissue of the rats were measured through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and to analyze cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), the protein expression of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), androgen receptor (AR), steroid 5α-reductase type 2 (SRD5A2), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), S100 calcium-binding protein A2 (S100A2), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), E-cadherin, vimentin, and Smad4 was determined through western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), or immunofluorescence (IF). FDS reduced the proliferation of DHT-induced RWPE-1cells. It also significantly inhibited rat prostate enlargement; decreased DHT levels in the serum and prostate tissue; inhibited the protein expression of AR, PSA, PCNA, S100A2, TGF-β1, E-cadherin, and Smad4; and increased the protein expression of E-cadherin. The present study is the first to report that diterpene glycosides isolated from FR inhibited BPH at the cellular level, regulated the proliferation of prostate cells through the androgen signaling pathway, and prevented EMT in the prostate through the S100A2-mediated TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. These results indicate that FDS is a promising multitarget therapy for BPH.