Transition Process Research Articles

NAT10 regulates zygotic genome activation and the morula-to-blastocyst transition.

As the first acetylated nucleoside to be discovered, N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10)-catalyzed RNA N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) modification is involved in the occurrence of various diseases. However, the roles of RNA ac4C in preimplantation embryo development still need more detailed studies. Here, we analyzed the role of RNA ac4C in preimplanted embryonic development in mice through Nat10 siRNA microinjection and growing oocyte stage-specific Nat10 knockout (Zp3-Nat10lox/lox). We found that NAT10 was indispensable for both the morula-to-blastocyst transition and zygotic genome activation (ZGA). Nat10 knockdown by Nat10 siRNA microinjection caused most embryos to arrest at the morula stage, and the expression levels of NANOG and CDX2 were significantly decreased. Moreover, the mRNA stability of Nanog was also significantly decreased in morulae after Nat10 knockdown. Zp3-Nat10lox/lox female mice were completely sterile, and the embryos from Zp3-Nat10lox/lox females were arrested at the 2-cell stage. Both the degradation of maternal mRNA and ZGA were deficient in 2-cell embryos from Zp3-Nat10lox/lox females. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that NAT10 is crucial for both ZGA and the morula-to-blastocyst transition processes during mouse preimplantation embryonic development.

Signature of Strange Star as the Central Engine of GRB 240529A

Abstract GRB 240529A is a long-duration gamma-ray burst (GRB) whose light curve of prompt emission is composed of a triple-episode structure, separated by quiescent gaps of tens to hundreds of seconds. More interestingly, its X-ray light curve of afterglow exhibits two plateau emissions, namely, an internal plateau emission that is smoothly connected with a ∼t −0.1 segment and followed by a ∼t −2 power-law decay. The three episodes in the prompt emission, together with two plateau emissions in X-ray, are unique in the Swift era. They are very difficult to explain with the standard internal/external shock model by invoking a black hole central engine. However, it could be consistent with the prediction of a supramassive magnetar as the central engine, the physical process of phase transition from a magnetar to a strange star, as well as the cooling and spin-down of the strange star. In this paper, we propose that the first- and second-episode emissions in the prompt gamma ray of GRB 240529A are from the jet emission of a massive star collapsing into a supramassive magnetar and the reactivity of the central engine, respectively. Then, the third-episode emission of the prompt is attributed to the phase transition from a magnetar to a strange star. Finally, the first and second plateau emissions of the X-ray afterglow are powered by the cooling and spin-down of the strange star, respectively. The observational data of each component of GRB 240529A are roughly coincident with the estimations of the above physical picture.

Institutional prefiguration: community energy development through spaces of orchestration

Abstract As a response to calls for decentralised energy infrastructure and inclusive decision-making processes in energy transitions, renewable energy communities (RECs) have emerged as innovative instruments to combat energy poverty and promote low-carbon energy. During 2021–2024, the Eurosolar4All project developed four solar photovoltaic (PV) RECs in four local contexts in Rome (Italy), Almada (Portugal), Coeur de Savoie (France), and Barcelona (Spain). Funded through the Horizon 2020 framework programme, the project aimed to produce diverse replicable models to alleviate energy poverty in vulnerable households. This paper examines the Eurosolar4All project and its pilots through the lens of prefigurative politics focused on local institutions. We draw on two questionnaires implemented across the four pilots, 18 semi-structured interviews with prospective beneficiaries, eight expert interviews with practitioners and participant observation during project meetings and site visits. The empirical analysis shows how the pilots worked to identify and empower vulnerable households while facing challenges related to path dependence and institutional inertia. These challenges relate to the project leaders’ (1) intramunicipal, (2) intermunicipal, and (3) trans-local work towards the enablement of pro-poor solar RECs. We show how the prefigurative politics of implementing the Eurosolar4All scheme surface in diverse ways in and across the cases and a related community of practice with ten follower municipalities and theorise the different levels as spaces of orchestration for prefigurative politics. We discuss how orchestration can counter an incumbent preference for centralised large-scale energy infrastructure, deeply embedded in modern energy systems (path dependence), to realise the potential social benefits of energy communities. In closing, we reflect upon how this enhances our understanding of the systemic limits to rapid upscaling of energy communities.

ABI3BP can inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition of non-small-cell lung cancer cells

Abstract Lung cancer, especially non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), has a poor 5-year survival rate below 20%, with factors like smoking, air pollution, and genetic mutations contributing to its development. ABI3BP, an extracellular matrix protein, inhibits NSCLC progression by regulating key signaling pathways; however, its exact mechanisms remain elusive. This study aimed to explore ABI3BP’s role in NSCLC and its impact on these pathways. We found that ABI3BP expression was significantly reduced in NSCLC cells compared to normal controls. Overexpression of ABI3BP in NSCLC cells resulted in a substantial reduction in cell growth and motility and induced cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, its overexpression suppressed the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in NSCLC cells. In addition, ABI3BP overexpression inhibited the MAPK/ERK pathway in NSCLC cells. Collectively, ABI3BP functions as a tumor suppressor in NSCLC by targeting the MAPK/ERK axis, thereby regulating cell proliferation, motility, and EMT. These findings suggest that ABI3BP represents a potential therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.

Linking social capital accumulation and information-seeking practices of international students in Germany

While existing studies have extensively explored various facets of international students’ experiences, a gap remains in understanding the connection between their social capital accumulation and information-seeking practices that shape the incoming students’ extended transition process. Successful information-seeking is not solely related to academic outcome; it is also influenced by the social capital resources available within and beyond familiar cultural groups. This article sheds light on how international students’ social capital accumulation shapes their information searches across various online and offline social networks. A total of ten international students were interviewed at the beginning and the end of their first semester in Germany during the 2022–23 academic year. The findings demonstrate that the incoming students’ information-seeking strategies and social capital accumulation change over time. The students rely on their previously established social connections offline and online when preparing for their departure. Upon arrival in Germany, the students continue to search for information within their linguistic and cultural familiar groups, but their information-seeking process shifts to local in-person contexts. During the semester, lecturers and fellow students become useful information sources at the university while the students develop confidence in their foreign language skills.

Regulating Crystallization for Pure-Iodide 1.68 eV Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells with a Fill Factor over 86.

Mixed halide wide-bandgap (WBG) perovskites, widely used as a top-cell absorber in tandem solar cells, exhibit severe photoinduced halide phase segregation. A feasible solution is to exploit pure-iodide WBG perovskites, essentially increasing Cs content instead of Br to achieve bandgap widening. However, the efficiency of pure-iodine WBG perovskite solar cells (PSCs) reported so far has been inferior to that of the typical mixed halide WBG PSCs due to complex nucleation and phase transition processes, leading to poor crystallization quality and a high density of defect states in pure-iodine WBG perovskites. Here, by combining lead thiocyanate (Pb(SCN)2) and oleylamine hydrochloride (OAmCl) with the Cs0.3DMA0.2MA0.5PbI3 perovskite precursor, a homogeneous phase distribution is obtained, resulting in enhanced crystallization and a reduction of excess lead source defects. With this approach, the resulting film quality is improved along with fewer surface-bulk defects as well as beneficial surface electronic properties. As a result, the pure-iodide WBG PSCs deliver a high efficiency of 21.55%, an extremely high fill factor of 86.03%, and superior photostability. The target film is fundamentally free of phase segregation under continuous light for 12 h (AM 1.5 G illumination, xenon lamp, 1 sun).

Modulation of the Epithelial–mesenchymal transition process by Forkhead Box C2 in the repair of airway epithelium after injury

BackgroundEpithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is regarded as a key process in repair of airway epithelium after injury. Forkhead Box C2 (FOXC2) is a transcription factor involved in EMT process, whether it is involved in repair of bronchial epithelium remains unknown.MethodsC57BL/6 mice were subjected to intraperitoneal injection with naphthalene (NAPH; 200 mg/kg) to induce airway injury model. qPCR, immunoblot and FOXC2 immunohistochemistry assays were conducted to detect the expression of FOXC2 in bronchial epithelium. To explore the function of FOXC2 in NAPH-induced airway injury, the mice were given intratracheal administration of shFOXC2- or shNC-lentivirus particles, followed by NAPH treatment. Hematoxylin-and-eosin staining was used to assess the histopathology of the bronchial epithelium. Immunofluorescence analysis of CCSP, a club cell marker confirmed the CCSP expression in bronchial epithelium. Immunoblot and immunofluorescence assays determined the expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, and N-cadherin. In mouse primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBECs), we overexpressed and silenced FOXC2 by lentivirus particles, respectively. Cell migration was analyzed using wound healing assay. Immunoblot assays determined the E-cadherin, vimentin, FN-EDA expression in TGF-β1-induced PBECs. mRNA sequencing (mRNA-seq) and FOXC2 ChIP sequencing (ChIP-seq) to reveal the downstream genes of FOXC2 in TGF-β1-induced PBECs. Luciferase assay, ChIP-PCR and functional rescue experiments were performed to confirm the interaction of FOXC2/formin binding protein 1 (FNBP1) in TGF-β1-induced PBECs.ResultsFOXC2 expression was up-regulated in the lung tissues of mice at 2, 3 and 6 days post-NAPH. FOXC2 knockdown in bronchial epithelium of mice delayed CCSP+ club cell regeneration and normal repair of the airway epithelium within 14 days after injury. Knockdown of FOXC2 increased E-cadherin but decreased vimentin and N-cadherin, EMT markers during early phase after injury. In vitro, knockdown of endogenous FOXC2 repressed the migration of cells and increased TGF-β1-induced E-cadherin but decreased vimentin, N-cadherin and FN-EDA. Exogenous FOXC2 addition exerted opposite effects. Furthermore, mRNA-seq and FOXC2 ChIP-seq revealed that FNBP1 might be a downstream target of FOXC2. Overexpression of FNBP1 reversed the inhibitory role of FOXC2 knockdown in EMT.ConclusionsThese data highlight the important function of FOXC2 as a regulator in repair of bronchial epithelium after injury.Graphical

Role of PROP1 in postnatal pituitary gland maturation.

Mutations in the pituitary-specific transcription factor PROP1 are the most common, known cause of hypopituitarism in humans. Prop1 is the first pituitary-specific gene in the hierarchy of transcription factors that regulate pituitary development. It is essential for regulating the transition of pituitary stem cells to hormone-producing cells in an epithelial to mesenchymal-like transition process. It is also critical for activation of the lineage specific transcription factor POU1F1 in early organogenesis. Prop1 deficient mice have pituitary dysmorphology and lack the cells that produce growth hormone (GH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and prolactin (PRL). Prop1 is expressed in stem cells postnatally, but it is not known whether postnatal expression is necessary for completion of pituitary gland growth or organ maintenance. We tested whether PROP1 has a role in postnatal pituitary development by generating a conditional allele and deleting a crucial exon after birth. We determined that postnatal expression of Prop1 is important for appropriate expansion of the POU1F1 lineage and for robust expression of TSH, GH, and PRL in the early postnatal period. However, by 2 weeks of age, compensatory proliferation of committed POU1F1-expressing cells, but not SOX2-expressing stem cells, have normalized pituitary function. Thus, PROP1 appears to be dispensable after birth in mice.

Solvent-regulable interfacial groups enable on-demand superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic silica aerogels

Silica aerogel, as the earliest synthetic and commercially available one among all known aerogels, holds significant value in fields including thermal and acoustic insulation, optics, catalysis, sorption, etc. However, throughout its nearly century-long history, the influence of solvent used during synthesis on the properties of silica aerogels has been neglected, resulting in inaccurate and ambiguous performance evaluation. Herein, we have uncovered and systematically investigated the solvent-regulable interfacial groups that enable on-demand superhydrophobicity/superhydrophilicity of silica aerogels. During either sol-gel transition or solvent exchange process both required for aerogel synthesis, the alteration of solvent either from water to ethanol or vice versa leads to silica interfacial groups switch from superhydrophilic Si-OH to superhydrophobic Si-OEt or reversely due to reversible esterification, thus enabling on-demand superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic silica aerogels. It is worth noting that on-demand solvent-regulated hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity holds true regardless of used silica precursors (the mixture of trimethoxymethylsilane (MTMS)/tetramethoxysilane (TMOS), MTMS/tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), or sodium methicosilicate (SMS)/TMOS), thereby indicating its universality, which wakes up considerable attention for producers involved in silica aerogels. Additionally, the discovery also provides a green, economical, and efficient way to achieve silica aerogels with on-demand hydrophilic/hydrophobic performance for specific sorption, etc.

Newly graduated nurses' experiences of moral distress during transition process: a convergent mixed methods study.

Newly graduated nurses are particularly vulnerable to moral distress due to limited experience, low self-confidence, and inadequate ethical knowledge, which impact their ability to make and act on ethical decisions. This study aims to describe their moral distress experiences during the transition to professional practice and identify predictive factors affecting moral distress levels. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was used. The quantitative and qualitative data were collected in parallel using the Measure of Moral Distress for Healthcare Professionals and a semi-structured questionnaire. The analysis was conducted separately and then integrated. In the quantitative part of the study, 205 new nurses with 1-18 months of working experience were recruited, and 25 new nurses were recruited in the qualitative part. Gender, type of hospital, experience time, caregiver and manager role level, and subjective perception of levels were significant predictors of moral distress. Qualitative data revealed four main themes: (1) causes of moral distress, (2) effect of moral distress, (3) coping with moral distress, and (4) suggestions for reducing moral distress. The moral distress experienced by newly graduated nurses may become more pronounced during the transition to professional life. During this period, lack of experience, low self-confidence, and insufficient ethical knowledge can increase moral distress and affect future experiences by making it difficult to make and implement ethical decisions. This study showed that individual, organizational, and systemic factors influence moral distress in new graduate nurses. It highlights that ethical challenges in developing professional identity are closely tied to organizational structure and systemic regulations, emphasizing the need for individual support and improvements in education and organizational systems to reduce moral distress. Not applicable.

From Legacy Systems to Digital Solutions: Change Management in IT Transformations

The transition from legacy systems to modern digital solutions is a pivotal aspect of IT transformations that demands meticulous planning and execution. This study examines the role of change management in IT transformations by exploring key factors such as stakeholder engagement, risk mitigation, and alignment of technology with organizational goals. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The qualitative aspect involved expert interviews and case studies from multiple industries, while the quantitative approach utilized statistical regression analysis on survey responses from IT professionals. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as project success rates, adoption levels, and cybersecurity resilience were analyzed to assess the impact of change management strategies. The study identifies a strong correlation between agile methodologies and increased organizational adaptability, emphasizing the importance of iterative development, continuous feedback, and cross-functional collaboration. Findings highlight that integrating change management frameworks with IT project delivery enhances efficiency and reduces resistance to digital transformation. This research provides a comprehensive framework for organizations aiming to optimize their IT transition processes and maximize the benefits of digital transformation.

RUSSIA’S DEMOCRATIC TRANSIT IN THE RUSSIAN ACADEMIC DISCOURSE

The article presents the results of a quantitative analysis of scientific publications on the subject of Russia’s democratic transit for the period of 2003-2023. Besides, on the basis of a secondary analysis of the researches the nonlinearity of the process of democratic transit of Russia is confirmed. Based on the fact that the political process determines academic discourse, the author argues that currently in Russia the search for an optimal national-specific model of democratic homeostasis continues in the context of the weakness of democratic traditions, the complicated geopolitical situation and the actualized traditionalist views of Russian society.

Organizational citizenship behaviour roles in the energy transition: a narrative review from a Malaysian perspective

Purpose This study aims to review recent conceptualizations and theories of organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and its role in the energy transition from Malaysia’s perspective. It examines how factors of OCB, such as individual values, attitudes, motivations, leadership style, organizational culture and policies, affect the energy transition process. The research findings have implications for future studies on energy transition, highlighting the role of OCB in shaping the country’s strategies, addressing challenges and contributing to the transition process. Design/methodology/approach This study conducts a narrative review of past literature and documents OCB in the context of energy transition; factors influencing OCB (individual, organizational and external factors); OCB in the context of energy transition; and insights into energy transition in Malaysian organizations. Findings This study finds support in the literature for the impact of OCB on energy transition efforts from the Malaysian perspective. OCB, which extends beyond formal role expectations, can significantly support the effective implementation of energy policies and contribute to organizational objectives. By encouraging OCB within organizations, Malaysia can facilitate the adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency practices, thereby playing a crucial role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and advancing the energy transition, instilling hope for a more sustainable future. Originality/value This study encourages future research to explore the relationship between discussed variables and their impact on OCB, which is crucial for organizational policies aimed at advancing the energy transition in Malaysia. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on OCB within the context of energy transition and provide a foundation for further related research.

Transactional Leadership and Change Sustainability: Evaluating Principals’ Long Term Impact on School Development

Leadership styles significantly impact the success of change initiatives. Common leadership styles include transformational, transactional, democratic, autocratic, and laissez-faire. This study investigates the Transactional Leadership and Change Sustainability: Evaluating Principals’ Long Term Impact on School Development. A principal's primary accountability is to support the leadership, path, and direction of abundant college-related activities. The principal's main responsibility is to inaugurate and keep a first-rate teaching-learning situation for the college's educational programs. The objectives of this study were to 1) To analyse the relationship between leadership styles of Principals and their efficacy in change management at secondary school level.2) To measure the principal’s efficacy in change management at secondary school level. This research specifically focuses on Federal Government Educational Institutions (FGEI) in the Chaklala and Rawalpindi regions. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from 142 secondary school teachers through a structured questionnaire, ensuring balanced gender representation (71 males and 71 females). This methodological framework enabled an in-depth analysis of teachers' perceptions regarding their principals' leadership behaviors and capabilities in change management. Data analysis incorporated descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis, providing a robust understanding of the interplay between leadership and change management. Results indicate that principals significantly inspire their staff by articulating a compelling vision for the future, fostering innovative thinking, and supporting teachers' professional development. Teachers expressed strong agreement regarding their principals’ abilities to cultivate a creative environment, exemplify desired behaviors, and acknowledge individual contributions. Furthermore, principals were found to be effective communicators during change initiatives and adept at addressing challenges that arise throughout the transition process. The findings suggest that principals who demonstrate flexibility, actively involve teachers in decision-making, and proactively anticipate potential challenges are more likely to succeed in implementing change initiatives. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed a substantial positive correlation (r = 0.764, p < 0.01) between leadership styles and change management efficacy, underscoring the critical role of effective leadership in facilitating successful educational transformation. Ethical considerations were strictly upheld, ensuring participant confidentiality and voluntary involvement throughout the research process. Findings suggest that effective leadership styles employed by principals significantly enhance their ability to manage change effectively in secondary schools. This strong correlation emphasizes the importance of leadership in fostering successful change initiatives within educational institutions.

How aerospace clusters respond to the challenge of sustainability: a comparison of the Toulouse and Montreal clusters

Abstract This paper examines how aerospace clusters help shape the innovation dynamics of aerospace manufacturers in the environmental transition to develop sustainable commercial aircraft. It intersects the economic geography, innovation, and sustainability literatures to develop a theoretical framework about the conditions that facilitate such a transition, and uses the case of two major aerospace clusters, Montreal and Toulouse, as a testing ground. Using a mixed-methods approach combining social network analysis and a series of interviews with some of the key actors in each cluster, the main findings of the study highlight a major difference between the two clusters: while in Toulouse the transition towards sustainability is a top-down approach orchestrated by the crucial role of public authorities, in Montreal the transition is a bottom-up one initiated by an active group of actors from aerospace firms and university research centers. The study also suggests some paradoxical outcomes of collaboration and competition between the two aerospace clusters during this process of environmental transition. Our study aims to contribute new insights to the literature on sustainability transitions in clusters and to develop implications for cluster research and policy-making.

BALIKPAPAN MICRO, SMALL, AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (MSMES) AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ADOPTION: TOE FRAMEWORK

This study examines the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Balikpapan, Indonesia, using the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. Through qualitative interviews with seven MSME owners and employees, we explored their perspectives on AI, current technology use, challenges in digital adoption, and external support needs. Findings indicate that while MSME owners recognize the potential of AI to enhance competitiveness, its adoption remains limited, with most relying on basic digital tools like POS systems and social media for marketing. Key challenges include financial constraints, limited digital literacy among staff, and a lack of technical training. Moreover, external support, such as government-backed training programs and financial incentives, is minimal, slowing the digital transition process. This study suggests that expanding AI awareness and providing targeted training could address these barriers, while government policies that promote digital infrastructure and collaboration with tech providers could further support MSME digital transformation. Future research should consider broader variables within the TOE framework, such as cultural and policy-related factors, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of AI adoption in MSMEs across various sectors.

Transitioning relational arts for persons living with dementia to a virtual space

ABSTRACT Background While a growing body of literature explores the potentials and challenges of transitioning in-person to online arts for persons living with dementia (PLwD), little research has examined the translation of relational arts to virtual spaces. This paper explores the experiences and transition of a relational arts Academy to a virtual space for community artists with dementia. Methods Using participatory action research, we conducted 10 research conversations with artist facilitators, collaborators, and leaders involved in the transition process, and 13 observations of online arts sessions and team member huddles. Results Team members successfully translated relational arts virtually by intentionally embedding relational literacies, leveraging relational supports, and embracing creativity. Although initially reluctant, artist facilitators, collaborators, and leaders were opened to the possibilities of relational arts in virtual spaces. Conclusion This research demonstrates the feasibility of relational arts for PLwD in virtual spaces, and offers insights to inform other virtual art programs for PLwD and their care partners.

Relationship between Transactional Leadership Style of Principals and Their Efficacy in Change Management at Secondary Level

This study investigates the relationship between transactional leadership style adopted by principals and their effectiveness in managing change within secondary schools. Effective change management in educational institutions, particularly at the secondary level, is crucial for adapting to evolving educational landscapes and meeting the diverse needs of stakeholders. Principals play a pivotal role in facilitating and implementing change initiatives, making their leadership styles integral to the success of these endeavors. The objectives of this study were to 1) To investigate the leadership styles of Principal’s at secondary school level.2) To measure the principal’s efficacy in change management at secondary school level. 3) To analyse the relationship between leadership styles of Principals and principal’s efficacy in change management at secondary school level. This research specifically focuses on Federal Government Educational Institutions (FGEI) in the Chaklala and Rawalpindi regions. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from 142 secondary school teachers through a structured questionnaire, ensuring balanced gender representation (71 males and 71 females). This methodological framework enabled an in-depth analysis of teachers' perceptions regarding their principals' leadership behaviors and capabilities in change management. Data analysis incorporated descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis, providing a robust understanding of the interplay between leadership and change management. Results indicate that principals significantly inspire their staff by articulating a compelling vision for the future, fostering innovative thinking, and supporting teachers' professional development. Teachers expressed strong agreement regarding their principals’ abilities to cultivate a creative environment, exemplify desired behaviors, and acknowledge individual contributions. Furthermore, principals were found to be effective communicators during change initiatives and adept at addressing challenges that arise throughout the transition process. The findings suggest that principals who demonstrate flexibility, actively involve teachers in decision-making, and proactively anticipate potential challenges are more likely to succeed in implementing change initiatives. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed a substantial positive correlation (r = 0.764, p < 0.01) between leadership styles and change management efficacy, underscoring the critical role of effective leadership in facilitating successful educational transformation. Ethical considerations were strictly upheld, ensuring participant confidentiality and voluntary involvement throughout the research process. This study contributes to the existing literature on educational leadership by highlighting the significance of adaptive leadership styles in fostering positive change management outcomes. The findings emphasize the necessity for principals to nurture a supportive school culture that embraces innovation and continuous improvement, ultimately enhancing overall educational effectiveness.

Understanding the process and mechanism of agricultural land transition in China: Based on the interactive conversion of cropland and natural ecological land.

Understanding the process and mechanism of agricultural land transition in China: Based on the interactive conversion of cropland and natural ecological land.

CENPF interaction with PLA2G4A promotes glioma growth by modulating mTORC1 and NF-κB pathways

BackgroundGlioma is the most common primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system, and due to the limited effectiveness of traditional single-target therapies, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic targets. Centromere protein F (CENPF) belongs to the centromere protein family and is mainly involved in the regulation of the cell cycle. CENPF has recently been found to play a key role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression, but its role in gliomas has not been well studied.MethodsThe expression level and clinical information of CENPF were obtained by analyzing the TCGA, CGGA and GEO databases. Immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis were used to quantitatively detect the expression of CENPF in glioma tissues and cell lines. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of TCGA and GSE16011 datasets was used to explore the molecular mechanism of the CENPF. CENPF-interacting proteins were detected by molecular docking and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). After silencing CENPF, CCK-8 assay, Transwell assay and flow cytometry were used to detect changes in cell proliferation, invasion, cell cycle and apoptosis, and Western blot was used to detect changes in signaling pathway protein levels.ResultsBioinformatics analysis showed that CENPF was generally highly expressed in gliomas and was associated with poor prognosis. This result was confirmed in glioma samples from our hospital. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that CENPF was an independent prognostic marker for gliomas. Western blot analysis in vitro showed that CENPF was overexpressed in the U251 and LN229 cell lines; therefore, these two cell lines were selected for subsequent experiments. GSEA analysis showed that CENPF was mainly involved in the G2/M phase-mediated cell cycle and P53 signaling pathway. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed that silencing CENPF induced G2/M phase arrest and increased apoptosis in glioma cells. Subsequent experiments confirmed that CENPF influences the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process through the mTORC1 signaling pathway. Molecular docking and Co-IP assay revealed that CENPF exerts its effects by interacting with PLA2G4A promoting the downstream signaling pathway. Finally, we found that silencing CENPF combined with a PLA2G4A inhibitor (AACOCF3) induced glioma cell apoptosis and exhibited anti-glioma effects.ConclusionsThis study found that CENPF plays a key role in promoting tumorigenesis through its interaction with PLA2G4A. This study provides a theoretical foundation for advancing multi-targeted therapies in glioma and for developing strategies to overcome tumor drug resistance.