Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (59)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = C-C motif chemokine ligand 5

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
17 pages, 515 KB  
Article
Serum CCL18 May Reflect Multiorgan Involvement with Poor Outcome in Systemic Sclerosis
by Kristóf Filipánits, Gabriella Nagy, Dávid Kurszán Jász, Tünde Minier, Diána Simon, Szabina Erdő-Bonyár, Tímea Berki and Gábor Kumánovics
Biomolecules 2026, 16(1), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16010136 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 163
Abstract
Background: Serum C–C motif chemokine ligand 18 (seCCL18) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been primarily associated with progressive interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) and mortality. However, its relationship with non-pulmonary organ involvement, disease activity, and long-term outcome has not been comprehensively evaluated. We therefore [...] Read more.
Background: Serum C–C motif chemokine ligand 18 (seCCL18) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been primarily associated with progressive interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) and mortality. However, its relationship with non-pulmonary organ involvement, disease activity, and long-term outcome has not been comprehensively evaluated. We therefore examined the clinical relevance of seCCL18 in a single-center SSc cohort. Methods: A total of 151 patients with SSc (83 diffuse cutaneous (dcSSc), 68 limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc); median (IQR) disease duration: 9 (4;16) years) and 47 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. Serum CCL18 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Elevated seCCL18 was defined as >130 ng/mL (mean + 2 SD of the healthy control group). Organ involvement and disease activity (EUSTAR Activity Index, EUSTAR-AI) were assessed at baseline, while survival was analysed longitudinally. Results: Patients with SSc had significantly higher seCCL18 levels than HCs (mean ± SD: 99.9 ± 43.2 vs. 75.0 ± 27.5 ng/mL, p < 0.01). Elevated seCCL18 was associated with SSc-ILD (81.1% vs. 60.5%, p = 0.022), reduced forced vital capacity (FVC < 70%: 16.2% vs. 3.5%, p = 0.006), and reduced diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO < 70%: 80.6% vs. 54.4%, p = 0.005). Higher seCCL18 levels were observed in patients with myocardial disease (104.8 ± 41.8 vs. 83.8 ± 44.2 ng/mL, p = 0.008), left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (107.1 ± 40.5 vs. 84.5 ± 45.0 ng/mL, p < 0.001), and oesophageal involvement (110.7 ± 38.3 vs. 93.3 ± 43.1 ng/mL, p = 0.009). SeCCL18 levels above the cut-off were more frequently associated with tendon friction rubs (51.4% vs. 27.4%, p = 0.007), active disease (EUSTAR-AI ≥ 2.5: 73% vs. 44%, p = 0.002), and elevated inflammatory markers (CRP > 5 mg/L: 51.4% vs. 19.3%, p < 0.001; ESR > 28 mm/h: 37.8% vs. 18.4%, p = 0.015). During a median follow-up of 87 months, 22 patients (15%) died. Elevated baseline seCCL18 predicted poorer survival in univariate analysis (log-rank p = 0.013) and remained an independent predictor of mortality in multivariable Cox regression (HR 1.789; 95% CI 1.133–2.824; p = 0.013), together with declining DLCO and reduced six-minute walk test performance. Conclusions: Elevated seCCL18 may identify patients with systemic sclerosis who exhibit a more severe multisystem phenotype, including cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal involvement, increased inflammatory activity, and reduced long-term survival. These findings suggest that seCCL18 may have some clinical utility as a prognostic biomarker reflecting widespread disease involvement beyond the lungs, even in patients with long-standing disease; however, the lack of an established cut-off value requires further validation in prospective, multicentre studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomarkers in Musculoskeletal and Orthopedic Disorders)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1913 KB  
Article
A Machine Learning Framework for Cancer Prognostics: Integrating Temporal and Immune Gene Dynamics via ARIMA-CNN
by Rui-Bin Lin, Linlin Zhou, Yu-Chun Lin, Yu Yu, Hung-Chih Yang and Chen-Wei Yu
Biomedicines 2025, 13(11), 2751; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13112751 - 11 Nov 2025
Viewed by 681
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma remains a global health challenge with high mortality rates. The tumor immune microenvironment significantly impacts disease progression and survival. However, traditional analyses predominantly focus on single immune genes, overlooking the critical interplay among multiple immune gene signatures. Our study explores [...] Read more.
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma remains a global health challenge with high mortality rates. The tumor immune microenvironment significantly impacts disease progression and survival. However, traditional analyses predominantly focus on single immune genes, overlooking the critical interplay among multiple immune gene signatures. Our study explores the prognostic significance of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) expression and associated immune genes through an innovative combination of Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models. Methods: A time series dataset of CCL5 expression, comprising 230 liver cancer patients, was analyzed using an ARIMA model to capture its temporal dynamics. The residuals from the ARIMA model, combined with immune gene expression data, were utilized as input features for a CNN to predict survival outcomes. Survival analyses were conducted using the Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan–Meier curves. Furthermore, the ARIMA-CNN framework’s results were systematically compared with traditional median-based stratification methods, establishing a benchmark for evaluating model efficacy and highlighting the enhanced predictive power of the proposed integrative approach. Results: CNN-extracted features demonstrated superior prognostic capability compared to traditional median-split analyses of single-gene datasets. Features derived from CD8+ T cells and effector T cells achieved a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.7324 (p = 0.0008) with a statistically significant log-rank p-value (0.0131), highlighting their critical role in anti-tumor immunity. Hierarchical clustering of immune genes further identified distinct survival associations. Notably, a cluster comprising B cells, Th2 cells, T cells, and NK cells demonstrated a moderate protective effect (HR: 0.8714, p = 0.1093) with a significant log-rank p-value (0.0233). Conversely, granulocytes, Tregs, macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells showed no significant survival association, emphasizing the complex regulatory landscape within the tumor immune microenvironment. Conclusions: Our study provides the first ARIMA-CNN framework for modeling gene expression and survival analysis, marking a significant innovation in integrating temporal dynamics and machine learning for biological data interpretation. This model offers deeper insights into the tumor immune microenvironment and underscores the potential for advancing precision immunotherapy strategies and identifying novel biomarkers, contributing significantly to innovative cancer management solutions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2172 KB  
Communication
Integrated Meta-Analysis of Scalp Transcriptomics and Serum Proteomics Defines Alopecia Areata Subtypes and Core Disease Pathways
by Li Xi, Elena Peeva, Yuji Yamaguchi, Zhan Ye, Craig L. Hyde and Emma Guttman-Yassky
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9662; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199662 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1558
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by non-scarring hair loss, with subtypes ranging from patchy alopecia (AAP) to alopecia totalis and universalis (AT/AU). The aim of this research is to investigate molecular features across AA severity by performing an integrated [...] Read more.
Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by non-scarring hair loss, with subtypes ranging from patchy alopecia (AAP) to alopecia totalis and universalis (AT/AU). The aim of this research is to investigate molecular features across AA severity by performing an integrated analysis of scalp transcriptomic datasets (GSE148346, GSE68801, GSE45512, GSE111061) and matched serum proteomic data from GSE148346. Differential expression analysis indicated that, relative to normal scalp, non-lesional AA tissue shows early immune activation—including Type 1 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 9 (CXCL9), CXCL10, CD8a molecule (CD8A), C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5)) and Type 2 (CCL13, CCL18) signatures—together with reduced expression of hair-follicle structural genes (keratin 32(KRT32)–35, homeobox C13 (HOXC13)) (FDR < 0.05, |fold change| > 1.5). Lesional AAP and AT/AU scalp showed stronger pro-inflammatory upregulation and greater loss of keratins and keratin-associated proteins (KRT81, KRT83, desmoglein 4 (DSG4), KRTAP12/15) compared with non-lesional scalp (FDR < 0.05, |fold change| > 1.5). Ferroptosis-associated genes (cAMP responsive element binding protein 5 (CREB5), solute carrier family 40 member 1 (SLC40A1), (lipocalin 2) LCN2, SLC7A11) and IRS (inner root sheath) differentiation genes (KRT25, KRT27, KRT28, KRT71–KRT75, KRT81, KRT83, KRT85–86, trichohyalin (TCHH)) were consistently repressed across subtypes, with the strongest reductions in AT/AU lesions versus AAP lesions, suggesting that oxidative-stress pathways and follicular structural integrity may contribute to subtype-specific pathology. Pathway analysis of lesional versus non-lesional scalp highlighted enrichment of IFN-α/γ, cytotoxic, and IL-15 signaling. Serum proteomic profiling, contrasting AA vs. healthy controls, corroborated scalp findings, revealing parallel alterations in immune-related proteins (CXCL9–CXCL10, CD163, interleukin-16 (IL16)) and structural markers (angiopoietin 1 (ANGPT1), decorin (DCN), chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1)) across AA subtypes. Together, these data offer an integrated view of immune, oxidative, and structural changes in AA and found ferroptosis-related and IRS genes, along with immune signatures, as potential molecular indicators to support future studies on disease subtypes and therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Immunology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 10998 KB  
Article
NONO Protein Regulates the Immune Response in Human Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
by Carmelina Antonella Iannuzzi, Iris Maria Forte, Marianna Tomeo, Anna Sfera, Francesco Pagano, Riziero Esposito Abate, Michelino De Laurentiis, Antonio Giordano and Luigi Alfano
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178542 - 2 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1737
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with limited treatment options for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The RNA-binding protein non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein (NONO) has emerged as a critical regulator of tumorigenesis, but its role in immune signaling remains [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with limited treatment options for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The RNA-binding protein non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein (NONO) has emerged as a critical regulator of tumorigenesis, but its role in immune signaling remains unexplored. We analyzed the effect of NONO protein by modulating its expression using short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and a chemical inhibitor (R)-SKBG-1. We demonstrate that NONO depletion in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells leads to cytoplasmic DNA accumulation, micronuclei formation, and activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase—stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) pathway, resulting in enhanced modulation of the immune response. NONO-deficient cells showed increased cGAS and STING activation, Tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) phosphorylation, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) nuclear localization, and transcription of pro-inflammatory genes such as CC Motif Chemokine Ligand 5 (CCL5). These effects were recapitulated by pharmacological inhibition using (R)-SKBG-1, confirming NONO’s immunosuppressive function. Our findings establish NONO as a key modulator of immune activation in TNBC and suggest that its inhibition may enhance anti-tumor immunity. This work paves the way for potential combination strategies involving NONO inhibitors and immune checkpoint blockade, particularly in tumors with homologous recombination deficiencies or limited immune infiltration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 2268 KB  
Article
Hydnocarpin, a Natural Flavonolignan, Induces the ROS-Mediated Apoptosis of Ovarian Cancer Cells and Reprograms Tumor-Associated Immune Cells
by Jae-Yoon Kim, Yejin Kim, Soo-Yeon Woo, Jin-Ok Kim, Hyunsoo Kim, So-Ri Son, Dae Sik Jang and Jung-Hye Choi
Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070846 - 10 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1257
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, the most lethal form of gynecological cancer worldwide with a poor prognosis, is largely driven by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of hydnocarpin, a natural flavonolignan derived from the flowers of Pueraria lobata, [...] Read more.
Ovarian cancer, the most lethal form of gynecological cancer worldwide with a poor prognosis, is largely driven by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of hydnocarpin, a natural flavonolignan derived from the flowers of Pueraria lobata, focusing on its effects on ovarian cancer and tumor-associated immune cells, including ovarian cancer-stimulated macrophages (MQs) and T cells. Hydnocarpin exhibited potent cytotoxicity against multiple ovarian cancer cell lines but only minimal toxicity against normal ovarian surface epithelial cells. Mechanistically, hydnocarpin triggered caspase-dependent apoptosis, as evidenced by the activation of caspase-9 and -3, with limited involvement of caspase-8, indicating the activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Experimental data implicated reactive oxygen species generation as a key mediator of hydnocarpin cytotoxicity, and reactive oxygen species inhibition significantly inhibited this cytotoxicity. In addition to its direct tumoricidal effects, hydnocarpin reprogrammed the tumor-associated immune cells, ovarian cancer-stimulated macrophages and T cells, by downregulating the levels of M2 MQ markers and pro-tumoral factors (matrix metalloproteinase-2/9, C–C motif chemokine ligand 5, transforming growth factor-β, and vascular endothelial growth factor) and enhancing MQ phagocytosis. Additionally, hydnocarpin promoted T-cell activation (interferon-γ and interleukin-2) and reduced the expression levels of immune evasion markers (CD80, CD86, and VISTA). Overall, this study demonstrated the dual anti-tumor effects of hydnocarpin on both ovarian cancer cells and immunosuppressive immune components in the tumor microenvironment, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic candidate for ovarian cancer. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

27 pages, 6312 KB  
Article
Transcriptomic Redox Dysregulation in a Rat Model of Metabolic Syndrome-Associated Kidney Injury
by Chien-Lin Lu, Yi-Yun Wang, Yih-Jeng Tsai, Hsuan-Ting Chen, Ming-Chieh Ma and Wen-Bin Wu
Antioxidants 2025, 14(6), 746; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14060746 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1042
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS), characterized by obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, is a major risk factor for renal injury. Oxidative stress (OxS) plays a pivotal role in its progression; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we established a [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS), characterized by obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, is a major risk factor for renal injury. Oxidative stress (OxS) plays a pivotal role in its progression; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we established a rat model of MetS using a high-fat diet combined with a single-dose streptozotocin injection in male Wistar rats. MetS rats exhibited systemic OxS, evidenced by elevated circulating levels of free oxygen radicals and decreased antioxidant defense capacity, as well as hypertension, renal lipid peroxidation, glomerular hyperfiltration, and renal tubular injury. Transcriptomic profiling of renal tissue revealed significant downregulation of six OxS-related genes: C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit, glutathione peroxidase 6, recombination activating gene 2, NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1, and selenoprotein P-1. Among these downregulated genes, CCL5 was further confirmed to be repressed at both mRNA and protein levels across intrarenal and systemic compartments. Given its documented functions in immune signaling and redox homeostasis, CCL5 downregulation may contribute to enhanced oxidative damage in MetS-associated renal injury. These findings highlight the role of redox gene dysregulation in the pathogenesis of MetS-related kidney disease and support the potential of CCL5 as a biomarker for oxidative renal injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2014 KB  
Review
GPR75: Advances, Challenges in Deorphanization, and Potential as a Novel Drug Target for Disease Treatment
by Jingyi Han, Jiaojiao Li, Sirui Yao, Zao Wei, Hui Jiang, Tao Xu, Junwei Zeng, Lin Xu and Yong Han
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4084; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094084 - 25 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5673
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptor 75 (GPR75), a novel member of the rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, has been identified across various tissues and organs, where it contributes to biological regulation and disease progression. Recent studies suggest potential interactions between GPR75 and ligands such [...] Read more.
G protein-coupled receptor 75 (GPR75), a novel member of the rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, has been identified across various tissues and organs, where it contributes to biological regulation and disease progression. Recent studies suggest potential interactions between GPR75 and ligands such as 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5/RANTES); however, its definitive endogenous ligand remains unidentified, and GPR75 is currently classified as an orphan receptor by International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (IUPHAR). Research on GPR75 deorphanization has underscored its critical roles in disease models, particularly in metabolic health, glucose regulation, and stability of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. However, the signaling pathways of GPR75 across different pathological conditions require further investigation. Importantly, ongoing studies are targeting GPR75 for drug development, exploring small molecule inhibitors, antibodies, and gene silencing techniques, positioning GPR75 as a promising GPCR target for treating related diseases. This review summarizes the recent advancements in GPR75 deorphanization research, examines its functions across tissues and systems, and highlights its links to metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders, thereby providing a resource for researchers to better understand the biological functions of this receptor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue G Protein-Coupled Receptors)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3287 KB  
Article
The C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 5, Which Exerts an Antioxidant Role by Inducing HO-1 Expression, Is C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 2-Dependent in Human Prostate Stroma and Cancer Cells
by Kang-Shuo Chang, Syue-Ting Chen, Shu-Yuan Hsu, Hsin-Ching Sung, Wei-Yin Lin, Ke-Hung Tsui, Yu-Hsiang Lin, Chen-Pang Hou and Horng-Heng Juang
Antioxidants 2024, 13(12), 1489; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13121489 - 5 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2085
Abstract
While the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CXCL5) is recognized as an inflammatory mediator and a potent attractant for immune cells, its functions within the human prostate remain unclear. This study explored the expression, functions, and regulatory mechanisms of CXCL5 in prostate stroma [...] Read more.
While the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CXCL5) is recognized as an inflammatory mediator and a potent attractant for immune cells, its functions within the human prostate remain unclear. This study explored the expression, functions, and regulatory mechanisms of CXCL5 in prostate stroma and cancer cells. CXCL5 secreted from prostate cancer cells enhanced neutrophil migration. CXCL5 induced cell proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells in vitro and tumorigenesis in a xenograft animal model. C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) has been identified on the surface of prostate fibroblasts and cancer cells. The supernatant of LNCaP cells or CXCL5 overexpression enhanced the migration and contraction of prostate myofibroblast WPMY-1 cells; however, pretreatment with SB225002, a CXCR2 inhibitor, can reverse these effects. CXCL5 evinces antioxidant properties by upregulating heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) to counteract H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a CXCR2-dependent manner in WPMY-1 and prostate cancer cells. Our findings illustrate that CXCL5, through HO-1, plays a role in antioxidation, and determine that the CXCL5/CXCR2/HO-1 pathway facilitates antioxidative communication between fibroblasts and cancer cells in the prostate. Therefore, targeting the CXCL5/CXCR2 signaling pathway could provide a new strategy for managing oxidative stress within the prostate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Cancer Biology)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 1875 KB  
Article
Co-Stimulation with TWEAK and TGF-β1 Induces Steroid-Insensitive TSLP and CCL5 Production in BEAS-2B Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
by Sumiko Abe, Norihiro Harada, Yuuki Sandhu, Hitoshi Sasano, Yuki Tanabe, Shoko Ueda, Takayasu Nishimaki, Yoshihiko Sato, Tomohito Takeshige, Sonoko Harada, Hisaya Akiba and Kazuhisa Takahashi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(21), 11625; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252111625 - 29 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2212
Abstract
Steroid-resistant asthma is a common cause of refractory asthma. Type 2 inflammation is the main inflammatory response in asthma, and the mechanism underlying the steroid-resistance of type 2 inflammation has not been completely elucidated. Tumor-necrosis-factor-like apoptosis-inducing factor (TWEAK) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 [...] Read more.
Steroid-resistant asthma is a common cause of refractory asthma. Type 2 inflammation is the main inflammatory response in asthma, and the mechanism underlying the steroid-resistance of type 2 inflammation has not been completely elucidated. Tumor-necrosis-factor-like apoptosis-inducing factor (TWEAK) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 are involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the production of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5). We herein hypothesize that the combined exposure to TWEAK and TGF-β1 may result in the development of steroid resistance in bronchial epithelial cells. The bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B was cultured with or without TGF-β1 or TWEAK, in the presence or absence of dexamethasone (DEX). The roles of Smad-independent pathways and MAP kinase phosphatase 1 (MKP-1) were also explored. Co-stimulation of TWEAK and TGF-β1 induced E-cadherin reduction, N-cadherin upregulation, and TSLP and CCL5 production, which were not suppressed by DEX. Inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways downregulated steroid-unresponsive TSLP and CCL5 production, whereas knockdown of MKP-1 improved steroid-unresponsive TSLP production, induced by co-stimulation with TWEAK and TGF-β1. Therefore, co-stimulation with TWEAK and TGF-β1 can induce the steroid-insensitive production of TSLP and CCL5 in the bronchial epithelium and may contribute to airway inflammation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research of Epithelial Function and Barrier Dysfunction)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1747 KB  
Article
The Role of Biomarkers in the Early Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer: A Study on CCR5, CCL5, PDGF, and EphA7
by Süleyman Bademler, Berkay Kılıç, Muhammed Üçüncü, Alisan Zirtiloglu and Burak İlhan
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(9), 10651-10661; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46090632 - 23 Sep 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1925
Abstract
Despite the use of screening programs, gastric cancer (GC) diagnosis may only be possible at an advanced stage. In this study, we examined the serum levels of C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5), C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), [...] Read more.
Despite the use of screening programs, gastric cancer (GC) diagnosis may only be possible at an advanced stage. In this study, we examined the serum levels of C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5), C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and EphrinA7 (EphA7) in patients with gastric carcinoma and healthy controls to investigate the significance and usability of these potential biomarkers in the early diagnosis of GC. The study enrolled 69 GC patients and 40 healthy individuals. CCR5, CCL5, PDGF-BB, and EphA7 levels, which have been identified in the carcinogenesis of many cancers, were measured in the blood samples using the ELISA method. CCR5, CCL5, PDGF-BB, and EphA7 were all correlated with GC diagnosis (CCR5, p < 0.001, r = −0.449; CCL5, p = 0.014, r = −0.234; PDGF-BB, p < 0.001, r = −0.700; EPHA7, p < 0.001, r = −0.617). The serum CCR5, EphA7, and especially the PDGF-BB levels of the patients diagnosed with GC were discovered to be significantly higher compared to the healthy controls. PDGF-BB had the highest positive and negative predictive values when evaluated in ROC analysis to determine its diagnostic significance (cut-off value: 59.8 ng/L; AUC: 0.92 (0.87–0.97)). As far as we know, this is the first study to investigate the potential connection between GC and these four biomarkers. The fact that serum CCR5, CCL5, EphA7, and especially PDGF-BB levels in the patient group were significantly higher compared to healthy controls indicates that they can be used with high accuracy in the early diagnosis of GC. In addition, the levels of CCR5, PDGF-BB, and EphA7 can be used as important indicators to predict the biological behavior and prognosis of GC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 15284 KB  
Article
Syndecan-1 Plays a Role in the Pathogenesis of Sjögren’s Disease by Inducing B-Cell Chemotaxis through CXCL13–Heparan Sulfate Interaction
by Nan Young Lee, Hirut Yadeta Ture, Eun Ju Lee, Ji Ae Jang, Gunwoo Kim and Eon Jeong Nam
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9375; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179375 - 29 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1793
Abstract
In Sjögren’s disease (SjD), the salivary glandular epithelial cells can induce the chemotaxis of B cells by secreting B-cell chemokines such as C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 13 (CXCL13). Syndecan-1 (SDC-1) is a major transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) predominantly expressed on epithelial cells [...] Read more.
In Sjögren’s disease (SjD), the salivary glandular epithelial cells can induce the chemotaxis of B cells by secreting B-cell chemokines such as C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 13 (CXCL13). Syndecan-1 (SDC-1) is a major transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) predominantly expressed on epithelial cells that binds to and regulates heparan sulfate (HS)-binding molecules, including chemokines. We aimed to determine whether SDC-1 plays a role in the pathogenesis of SjD by acting on the binding of HS to B-cell chemokines. To assess changes in glandular inflammation and SDC-1 concentrations in the submandibular gland (SMG) and blood, female NOD/ShiLtJ and sex- and age-matched C57BL/10 mice were used. In the SMG of NOD/ShiLtJ mice, inflammatory responses were identified at 8 weeks of age, but increased SDC-1 concentrations in the SMG and blood were observed at 6 weeks of age, when inflammation had not yet started. As the inflammation of the SMG worsened, the SDC-1 concentrations in the SMG and blood increased. The expression of the CXCL13 and its receptor C-X-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CXCR5) began to increase in the SMG at 6 weeks of age and continued until 12 weeks of age. Immunofluorescence staining in SMG tissue and normal murine mammary gland cells confirmed the co-localization of SDC-1 and CXCL13, and SDC-1 formed a complex with CXCL13 in an immunoprecipitation assay. Furthermore, NOD/ShiLtJ mice were treated with 5 mg/kg HS intraperitoneally thrice per week for 6–10 weeks of age, and the therapeutic effects in the SMG were assessed at the end of 10 weeks of age. NOD/ShiLtJ mice treated with HS showed attenuated salivary gland inflammation with reduced B-cell infiltration, germinal center formation and CXCR5 expression. These findings suggest that SDC-1 plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of SjD by binding to CXCL13 through the HS chain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Sjögren's Syndrome 3.0)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3814 KB  
Article
Association of Inflammation and Immune Cell Infiltration with Estrogen Receptor Alpha in an Estrogen and Ionizing Radiation-Induced Breast Cancer Model
by Tania Koning and Gloria M. Calaf
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(16), 8604; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25168604 - 7 Aug 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2374
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in the world, and it is the primary cause of cancer death for women. The risk of breast cancer is increased by endogenous factors like hormones and exogenous factors like radiation exposure that causes damage to [...] Read more.
Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in the world, and it is the primary cause of cancer death for women. The risk of breast cancer is increased by endogenous factors like hormones and exogenous factors like radiation exposure that causes damage to the mammary epithelial cells leading to an inflammatory response. Chronic inflammation creates a microenvironment composed of, among other factors, chemokines, and interleukins, which promote cancer. The gene expression of the interleukin 1 receptor type 1, the interleukin 1 receptor antagonist, the Interleukin 1 Receptor Accessory Protein, the interleukin 6 cytokine family signal transducer, the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 3, the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 5, and the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 6 were analyzed in an estrogen and radiation experimental breast cancer model. Furthermore, the expression of these genes was correlated with immune cell infiltration, estrogen receptor expression, and their clinical relevance in breast cancer patients based on data provided by The Cancer Genome Atlas database online. Results given by the experimental breast cancer model showed that all genes related to inflammation respond to ionizing radiation alone or in combination with estrogen. On the other hand, the immune response depended on the breast cancer type and on the expression of the gene that encoded the estrogen receptor. Finally, the importance of the expression of these genes in breast cancer is such that high IL1R1 or IL1RAP is strongly related to patient survival. These findings may help to improve the understanding of the role of immune molecules in carcinogenesis and enhance therapeutic approaches. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1244 KB  
Article
A Cross-Sectional Exploratory Study of Cardiovascular Risk Biomarkers in Non-Obese Women with and without Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Association with Vitamin D
by Manjula Nandakumar, Priya Das, Thozhukat Sathyapalan, Alexandra E. Butler and Stephen L. Atkin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(12), 6330; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126330 - 7 Jun 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3653
Abstract
Vitamin D is proposed to have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease, though the mechanism is unclear. Vitamin D deficiency is common in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where it is strongly related to obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and risk of cardiovascular disease. To [...] Read more.
Vitamin D is proposed to have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease, though the mechanism is unclear. Vitamin D deficiency is common in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where it is strongly related to obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and risk of cardiovascular disease. To determine if the inherent pathophysiology of PCOS or vitamin D levels are linked to dysregulation of cardiovascular risk proteins (CVRPs), a study in non-obese women with PCOS and without IR was undertaken. Our hypothesis was that the levels of vitamin D3 and its active metabolite would be associated with CVRPs comparably in women with and without PCOS. In women with PCOS (n = 29) and controls (n = 29), 54 CVRPs were determined by Slow Off-rate Modified Aptamer (SOMA)-scan plasma protein measurement and correlated to 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) and the active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) measured by gold standard isotope-dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Women with PCOS had comparable IR and systemic inflammation (normal C-reactive protein) to control women, though had higher free androgen index and anti-Mullerian hormone levels. 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 levels did not differ between groups. Nine CVRPs were higher in PCOS (p < 0.05) (Galectin-9, Brother of CDO, C-motif chemokine 3, Interleukin-18 receptor-1, Thrombopoietin, Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein, Programmed cell death 1 ligand-2, Low-affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc-region receptor II-b and human growth hormone), whilst 45 CVRPs did not differ. 25(OH)D3 correlated with five CVRPs in PCOS and one in controls (p < 0.05). Despite the women with PCOS not exhibiting overt systemic inflammation, 9 of 54 CVRPs were elevated, all relating to inflammation, and 5 of these correlated with 25(OH)D3, suggesting an ongoing underlying inflammatory process in PCOS even in the absence of obesity/IR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insight to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2670 KB  
Article
Prognostic and Predictive Potential of CCL5 Expression in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Patients
by Cedric Smolka, Markus Eckstein, Rudolf Jung, Verena Lieb, Danijel Sikic, Robert Stöhr, Veronika Bahlinger, Simone Bertz, Astrid Kehlen, Arndt Hartmann, Bernd Wullich, Helge Taubert and Sven Wach
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(12), 6325; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126325 - 7 Jun 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2207
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is the 12th most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Although there are several well-established molecular and immunological classifications, prognostic and predictive markers for tumor cells and immune cells are still needed. Using a tissue microarray, we analyzed the expression of the [...] Read more.
Bladder cancer (BC) is the 12th most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Although there are several well-established molecular and immunological classifications, prognostic and predictive markers for tumor cells and immune cells are still needed. Using a tissue microarray, we analyzed the expression of the chemokine CC motif ligand 5 (CCL5) by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 175 muscle-invasive BC samples. The application of a single cutoff for the staining status of tumor cells (TCs; positive vs. negative) and immune cells (ICs; positive vs. negative) revealed 75 patients (42.9%) and 123 patients (70.3%) with CCL5-positive TCs or ICs, respectively. IHC results were associated with prognostic and predictive data. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that positive CCL5 staining in TCs was associated with significantly shorter disease-specific survival (DSS; RR = 1.51; p = 0.047), but CCL5-negative ICs were associated with significantly shorter overall survival (OS; RR = 1.66; p = 0.005), DSS (RR = 2.02; p = 0.001) and recurrence-free survival (RFS; RR = 1.94; p = 0.002). Adjuvant chemotherapy was favorable for patients with CCL5-negative ICs for OS (RR = 0.30; p = 0.006), DSS (RR = 0.36; p = 0.022) and RFS (RR = 0.41; p = 0.046) but not for patients with CCL5-positive ICs, except in the subgroup of N1 + N2 patients, where it was associated with better OS. We suggest that CCL5 expression can be a prognostic and predictive marker for muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Diagnostics and Therapeutic Target in Bladder Cancer)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 9983 KB  
Article
Prognostic Function and Immunologic Landscape of a Predictive Model Based on Five Senescence-Related Genes in IPF Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid
by Cheng Zhong, Yuqiong Lei, Jingyuan Zhang, Qi Zheng, Zeyu Liu, Yongle Xu, Shan Shan and Tao Ren
Biomedicines 2024, 12(6), 1246; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12061246 - 3 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1965
Abstract
Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a type of interstitial lung disease characterized by unknown causes and a poor prognosis. Recent research indicates that age-related mechanisms, such as cellular senescence, may play a role in the development of this condition. However, the relationship [...] Read more.
Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a type of interstitial lung disease characterized by unknown causes and a poor prognosis. Recent research indicates that age-related mechanisms, such as cellular senescence, may play a role in the development of this condition. However, the relationship between cellular senescence and clinical outcomes in IPF remains uncertain. Methods: Data from the GSE70867 database were meticulously analyzed in this study. The research employed differential expression analysis, as well as univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, to pinpoint senescence-related genes (SRGs) linked to prognosis and construct a prognostic risk model. The model’s clinical relevance and its connection to potential biological processes were systematically assessed in training and testing datasets. Additionally, the expression location of prognosis-related SRGs was identified through immunohistochemical staining, and the correlation between SRGs and immune cell infiltration was deduced using the GSE28221 dataset. Result: The prognostic risk model was constructed based on five SRGs (cellular communication network factor 1, CYR61, stratifin, SFN, megakaryocyte-associated tyrosine kinase, MATK, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1, CXCL1, LIM domain, and actin binding 1, LIMA1). Both Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves (p = 0.005) and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis affirmed the predictive accuracy of this model in testing datasets, with respective areas under the ROC curve at 1-, 2-, and 3-years being 0.721, 0.802, and 0.739. Furthermore, qRT-RCR analysis and immunohistochemical staining verify the differential expression of SRGs in IPF samples and controls. Moreover, patients in the high-risk group contained higher infiltration levels of neutrophils, eosinophils, and M1 macrophages in BALF, which appeared to be independent indicators of poor prognosis in IPF patients. Conclusion: Our research reveals the effectiveness of the 5 SRGs model in BALF for risk stratification and prognosis prediction in IPF patients, providing new insights into the immune infiltration of IPF progression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop