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Search Results (219)

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Keywords = PTEN/AKT signalling

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18 pages, 964 KB  
Review
PRMT5 as a Key Driver of Stemness and Metastatic Potential in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
by Jae Jin Jeong, Mauli Maniar, Shahrzad Ghane, Sakshi Deshpande, Claire Ellis and Ashakumary Lakshmikuttyamma
Biomolecules 2026, 16(6), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16060916 - 20 Jun 2026
Viewed by 423
Abstract
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) mediates arginine methylation of a wide range of proteins and plays context-dependent oncogenic or tumor-suppressive roles. In cancer, PRMT5 represses several tumor suppressor genes, including E-cadherin, TP53BP1, ST7, PTEN, and RB (retinoblastoma). Elevated PRMT5 expression has been reported [...] Read more.
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) mediates arginine methylation of a wide range of proteins and plays context-dependent oncogenic or tumor-suppressive roles. In cancer, PRMT5 represses several tumor suppressor genes, including E-cadherin, TP53BP1, ST7, PTEN, and RB (retinoblastoma). Elevated PRMT5 expression has been reported across multiple cancer types, notably triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). In TNBC, high PRMT5 levels are associated with enhanced cancer stem cell self-renewal, increased tumor growth and metastasis, and reduced patient survival. Mechanistically, PRMT5 promotes breast cancer stem cell maintenance and proliferation through stabilization of the transcription factors KLF4 and KLF5. Disruption of the PRMT5–KLF4 axis results in significant tumor reduction in TNBC models. Moreover, increased PRMT5 expression has been linked to resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy in TNBC. Notably, PRMT5 inhibitors demonstrate synergistic anticancer activity when combined with inhibitors of key oncogenic signaling pathways, including EGFR, PARP, and AKT. While several PRMT5 inhibitors are currently being evaluated in clinical trials for other malignancies, no clinical trials have yet been initiated specifically for TNBC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Epigenetics of Breast Cancer)
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20 pages, 17576 KB  
Article
Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity Attenuation by Schizophyllum commune Through Regulating Mitochondria-Associated Signaling, Apoptosis, Autophagy, and PINK1/Parkin-Mediated Mitophagy
by Yu-Wen Sun, Te-Kai Sun, Wen-Ping Jiang and Guan-Jhong Huang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5302; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125302 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Associated with high morbidity and mortality, cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical complication characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondria-associated signaling. Although multiple signaling pathways have been implicated in AKI progression, effective interventions targeting these complex mechanisms are still lacking. [...] Read more.
Associated with high morbidity and mortality, cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical complication characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondria-associated signaling. Although multiple signaling pathways have been implicated in AKI progression, effective interventions targeting these complex mechanisms are still lacking. As a medicinal fungus with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Schizophyllum commune (SC) has shown potential biological activities; however, its renoprotective effects in cisplatin-induced AKI remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate SC’s protective effects and underlying mechanisms in a cisplatin-induced AKI mouse model. SC treatment improved renal function and attenuated histopathological damage. It reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, as evidenced by the modulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, SC regulated multiple signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B (TLR4/ NF-κB), PI3K/AKT, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1), and the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase–AMP-activated protein kinase–sirtuin 1 (CaMKK–AMPK–Sirt1) axis. In addition, SC modulated apoptosis, autophagy, and PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin-mediated mitophagy, suggesting improved mitochondrial homeostasis. These findings indicate that SC exerts renoprotective effects and may contribute to cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity mitigation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Antioxidant Activity)
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25 pages, 1311 KB  
Article
Integrative Analysis of Oxidative Stress and Cellular Senescence Pathways in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
by Yanina Timasheva, Gulnaz Korytina, Vitaly Markelov, Timur Nasibullin, Leysan Akhmadishina, Yulia Aznabaeva, Shamil Zulkarneev, Olga Kochetova and Naufal Zagidullin
Genes 2026, 17(6), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17060685 - 10 Jun 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 473
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasingly viewed as a disorder of impaired cellular adaptation to chronic stress, involving oxidative injury, mitochondrial dysfunction, and accelerated cellular senescence. We investigated whether genetic variation in these pathways contributes to disease susceptibility, lung function [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasingly viewed as a disorder of impaired cellular adaptation to chronic stress, involving oxidative injury, mitochondrial dysfunction, and accelerated cellular senescence. We investigated whether genetic variation in these pathways contributes to disease susceptibility, lung function impairment, and polygenic risk prediction. Methods: Thirty-three single-nucleotide variants were analysed in 747 patients with COPD and 703 controls. Associations with disease susceptibility and lung function parameters were assessed using regression models with correction for multiple testing. Weighted and unweighted polygenic scores were constructed from associated variants and evaluated using receiver operating characteristic and net reclassification improvement analyses. Results: Significant associations were identified in genes involved in antioxidant defence (NFE2L2, HMOX1, GSR), PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling (PIK3R1, PTEN), mitochondrial function (TOMM40), cellular stress responses (FOXO3A), and long non-coding RNA regulation (MEG3, CDKN2B-AS1). The strongest association was observed for PIK3R1 rs831125 (OR = 2.31, p = 2.53 × 10−10). Variants in NFE2L2, PIK3R1, MEG3, MALAT1, and SIRT3 were additionally associated with pulmonary function parameters. The weighted polygenic score demonstrated good discriminative ability (AUC 68.8%, 95% CI 65.9–71.7%) and substantially improved prediction when combined with age, sex, and smoking exposure (AUC 88.1%, 95% CI 86.3–89.8%; NRI = 0.62, p = 2.21 × 10−28). Conclusions: The identified loci converge on interconnected pathways involved in cellular stress adaptation, mitochondrial homeostasis, and senescence, supporting their contribution to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease susceptibility and functional decline. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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18 pages, 7987 KB  
Article
Insulin Pathway Changes in Localized Prostate Cancer: A Multi-Institutional Analysis
by Evan R. Adler, Anwaruddin Mohammad, Pankaj Kumar, Robert J. Rounbehler, Michelle L. Churchman, Laura S. Graham, Eric A. Singer, Bodour Salhia, Adanma Ayanambakkam, Kenneth G. Nepple, Zin W. Myint, Qiang Li, Saum Ghodoussipour, Jennifer M. King, G. Daniel Grass, Sumati V. Gupta and Paul V. Viscuse
Cancers 2026, 18(10), 1636; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18101636 - 19 May 2026
Viewed by 523
Abstract
Background: Prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease with variable clinical outcomes. If localized, the patient may be cured. However, prostate cancer is lethal if recurrence/progression to metastatic castrate resistant disease occurs. Thus, there is an unmet need to further understand the molecular underpinnings [...] Read more.
Background: Prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease with variable clinical outcomes. If localized, the patient may be cured. However, prostate cancer is lethal if recurrence/progression to metastatic castrate resistant disease occurs. Thus, there is an unmet need to further understand the molecular underpinnings of this progression. Epidemiologic studies show that increased risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer has been associated with elevated serum IGF-1 levels, hyperinsulinemia and metabolic syndrome. Alterations in insulin pathway genes, such as PTEN, FOXO, and PIK3CA, are mutated in up to 32%, 15%, and 11% of localized prostate tumors, respectively. We aimed to further characterize expression of insulin pathway genes in localized prostate cancers in an effort to (1) provide insights into potential mechanisms of progression to metastatic disease and (2) try to further enrich for those prostate tumors that portend worse survival outcomes. Methods: Using the multi-institutional Oncology Research Information Exchange Network (ORIEN) database, gene expression data was analyzed from localized prostate cancer tumors. The raw counts were first normalized, and 176 genes related to the insulin receptor and its downstream pathways were then subset and used for clustering using the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). The NMF cluster analysis was performed in an attempt to separate gene expression into two groups. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was then performed between the two groups that had been separated by cluster analysis to determine homology between other GSEA sets. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to assess median overall survival. Cox analysis was performed to generate the adjusted KM curve. Mediation analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between cluster status, TN stage, and survival. Results: Cluster analysis revealed two distinct groups of insulin gene expression, cluster 1 (n = 96) and cluster 2 (n = 337). Compared with cluster 2, cluster 1 consisted of decreased expression of PTEN (p < 0.001) and PIK3R1 (p < 0.001), along with increases in the expression of AKT1 (p < 0.001), IRS1/2 (p < 0.001), FASN (p < 0.001), IGFBP2 (p < 0.001), and MTOR (p < 0.001). GSEA analysis revealed changes in lipid metabolism and WNT secretion pathways in cluster 1. Cluster 2 GSEA showed pathway changes related to DNA damage repair and testosterone. Patient characteristics between clusters differed significantly in the T and N stages of tumor but not in other ways. In unadjusted analysis, median overall survival was estimated at 117 months and 232 months for cluster 1 and cluster 2, respectively (p < 0.05). The proportion of patients who went on to develop metastases (p < 0.05) or need chemotherapy (p < 0.05) was increased in cluster 1 compared to cluster 2. Repeat survival analysis adjusted for confounders (T stage, N stage, age at diagnosis, pathologic grade) showed no difference in survival between clusters. Mediation analysis showed that the contribution of cluster status to survival was independent of T or N stage. Conclusions: A subset of localized prostate cancer patients demonstrated linked insulin pathway changes that are consistent with prior studies describing a pattern of insulin dysregulation. Though the group characterized by insulin dysregulation initially showed worse survival outcomes, this difference disappeared when controlling for confounders. Though baseline differences in tumor stage seemed to most readily explain the difference in survival between clusters, mediation analysis showed that the effect of cluster status on survival was independent of tumor stage. This suggests that other confounders, such as pathologic grade or baseline age, may explain the survival difference. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research of Cancer)
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14 pages, 411 KB  
Review
Capivasertib as a Therapeutic Agent for Breast Cancer: Targeting AKT to Overcome Endocrine Resistance
by Christos Damaskos, Nikolaos Garmpis, Nikolaos Arkadopoulos, Nikolaos V. Michalopoulos, Anna Garmpi, Miltiadis-Panagiotis Papandroudis and Eleni I. Effraimidou
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(10), 3803; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15103803 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 685
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Capivasertib is a selective pan-AKT inhibitor recently approved in combination with fulvestrant for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2- breast cancer with alterations in the PI3K/AKT pathway. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade represents a critical indication of endocrine resistance and tumor progression [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Capivasertib is a selective pan-AKT inhibitor recently approved in combination with fulvestrant for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2- breast cancer with alterations in the PI3K/AKT pathway. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade represents a critical indication of endocrine resistance and tumor progression in this subtype of breast cancer. The present review summarizes current clinical data regarding the efficacy of capivasertib, either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapeutic agents and discusses emerging biomarkers and mechanisms of resistance. Methods: A literature search of the PubMed database was conducted to identify clinical trials evaluating capivasertib in breast cancer. Studies on capivasertib as monotherapy or in combination with fulvestrant, paclitaxel, or olaparib were included. Results: Findings from phase I–III clinical trials indicate that capivasertib in combination with fulvestrant significantly prolongs progression-free survival in patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer, particularly in tumors containing PIK3CA, AKT1, or PTEN alterations. Drug combination approaches with paclitaxel or olaparib have demonstrated additive or synergistic effects in triple-negative and DNA repair-deficient contexts, respectively. Monotherapy studies confirm effective pathway inhibition with modest clinical benefit, primarily in AKT1-mutant tumors. Translational analyses suggest that persistent mTORC1-mediated protein synthesis and compensatory signaling activation contribute to acquired resistance. Conclusions: Capivasertib constitutes a clinically validated therapeutic approach for the inhibition of AKT signaling in breast cancer. Its efficacy is most evident when combined with endocrine therapy; however, optimization of patient selection and rational combination strategies remains necessary to overcome resistance associated with mTORC1 activation and signaling redundancy. Full article
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24 pages, 2293 KB  
Review
Biomaterial Engineering for Spatiotemporal Regulation of Exosome Functions: From Design Principles to Key Applications in Regenerative Medicine
by Shan Long, Bo Wang, Shaodong Tian, Honglan Tang, Hanbing Wu, Xiaofeng Yang and Chuyue Zhang
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(5), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19050672 - 25 Apr 2026
Viewed by 542
Abstract
As natural nanoscale intercellular messengers, exosomes exhibit considerable potential in modulating inflammation, angiogenesis, immunoregulation, and tissue remodeling, making them attractive candidates for regenerative medicine. However, their clinical translation remains limited by rapid systemic clearance, nonspecific biodistribution, insufficient lesion retention, and functional attenuation in [...] Read more.
As natural nanoscale intercellular messengers, exosomes exhibit considerable potential in modulating inflammation, angiogenesis, immunoregulation, and tissue remodeling, making them attractive candidates for regenerative medicine. However, their clinical translation remains limited by rapid systemic clearance, nonspecific biodistribution, insufficient lesion retention, and functional attenuation in hostile pathological microenvironments. In this review, we propose that biomaterial engineering should evolve from providing passive exosome carriers to constructing active regulatory platforms capable of precise spatiotemporal control. We summarize engineering strategies along two complementary dimensions. In the temporal dimension, biomaterials can enable sustained, sequential, or microenvironment-responsive release to match the dynamic phases of tissue repair. In the spatial dimension, biomaterials can improve local retention, tissue anchoring, structural guidance, endogenous cell recruitment, and lesion-specific delivery. Using cutaneous wound healing, osteochondral regeneration, myocardial repair, and neural regeneration as representative examples, we further analyze these strategies through a “clinical challenge–engineering strategy–biological mechanism” framework, with particular attention to how engineered systems influence key signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, and PTEN/PI3K/Akt/mTOR. We also discuss translational barriers, including exosome heterogeneity, safety concerns inherited from parental cells, large-scale GMP-compliant manufacturing, product standardization, storage stability, and regulatory classification of exosome–biomaterial hybrids. Finally, we highlight emerging directions, including multi-mechanism combinational systems, closed-loop responsive platforms, and artificial intelligence-assisted design for personalized exosome therapeutics. This review provides a design-oriented framework to accelerate the bench-to-bedside development of biomaterial-enabled precision exosome therapy. Full article
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13 pages, 916 KB  
Article
USP13 Downregulation Distinguishes Malignant from Adjacent Non-Neoplastic Prostate Tissue and Suggests Altered PTEN-Related Regulatory Pathways in a Korean Cohort
by Jae Heon Kim, Miho Song, Kwang Woo Lee, Suyeon Park, Eunkyung Han, Ahrim Moon and Yun Seob Song
Life 2026, 16(5), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16050712 - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 308
Abstract
Ubiquitin-specific protease 13 (USP13) is a deubiquitinating enzyme that stabilizes phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), a well-established tumor suppressor involved in PI3K/AKT signaling. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between USP13 immunohistochemical staining intensity and clinicopathological factors associated [...] Read more.
Ubiquitin-specific protease 13 (USP13) is a deubiquitinating enzyme that stabilizes phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), a well-established tumor suppressor involved in PI3K/AKT signaling. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between USP13 immunohistochemical staining intensity and clinicopathological factors associated with prostate cancer progression. USP13 staining was scored as grade 0 (negative), 1 (weak), 2 (moderate), or 3 (strong) in 242 prostate cancer tissues and 22 adjacent non-neoplastic control tissues. Higher USP13 grades were exhibited by adjacent non-neoplastic tissues than prostate carcinoma. In comparison, lower USP13 grades were observed in 88.6% of the neoplastic regions (p < 0.001). No differences in PSA level, Gleason’s score, disease stage, involvement of either the seminal vesicle or lymph nodes, surgical margin positivity, biochemical or clinical recurrence rates, or overall survival statistics were found. Cox proportional hazards modeling showed no significant association between USP13 expression and biochemical recurrence-free survival or overall survival. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated no statistically significant differences in survival outcomes according to USP13 expression, although a descriptive trend was observed. USP13 immunohistochemical staining distinguished malignant prostate tissue from adjacent non-neoplastic tissue in tissue microarrays. However, USP13 expression was not independently associated with pathological aggressiveness or survival outcomes in this cohort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Treatment and Prognosis of Prostate Cancer—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 8006 KB  
Article
The RhoG-Binding Domain of ELMO1 Rescues the PTENopathy-like Phenotype in Oligodendroglial FBD-102b Cells
by Mikito Takahashi, Mei Tanaka, Hideji Yako, Yuki Miyamoto and Junji Yamauchi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(8), 3457; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27083457 - 12 Apr 2026
Viewed by 626
Abstract
Oligodendroglial cells are the myelinating glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS), and their morphological differentiation is a prerequisite for efficient myelin formation, which is essential for proper neuronal function. While oligodendroglial morphological changes normally proceed through tightly regulated developmental transitions, disruption [...] Read more.
Oligodendroglial cells are the myelinating glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS), and their morphological differentiation is a prerequisite for efficient myelin formation, which is essential for proper neuronal function. While oligodendroglial morphological changes normally proceed through tightly regulated developmental transitions, disruption of the underlying molecular mechanisms can lead to aberrant cellular phenotypes characterized by either premature, insufficient, or excessive differentiation. Although the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and its downstream Akt kinase signaling are well established as major drivers of oligodendrocyte morphological differentiation, myelination, and CNS white matter formation, how its negative regulator, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), is involved in the regulation of oligodendroglial morphogenesis remains incompletely understood. Recent genetic studies have highlighted a spectrum of disorders caused by PTEN dysfunction, conceptually established but currently evolving as PTENopathy, which has been partially associated with white matter abnormalities. Here, we report that, in an experimental model using the FBD-102b cell line, a well-established model of oligodendroglial cell differentiation, chemical inhibition of PTEN enhances pronounced morphological changes characterized by widespread membranes, accompanied by increased expression of differentiation and/or myelin marker proteins. We then focused on Rho family small GTPases, central regulators of cell morphogenesis, and examined their potential involvement downstream of this signaling. Expression of the RhoG-binding domain (RBD) of engulfment and cell motility 1 (ELMO1) attenuated the increased morphological changes. Similarly, inhibition of downstream Akt signaling also reversed these changes. Taken together, these results provide insight into how balanced regulation between PTEN and downstream signaling molecules governs oligodendroglial cell differentiation and suggest that dysregulation of this signaling equilibrium may contribute to cellular phenotypes relevant to disease-associated cellular alterations. Full article
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23 pages, 375 KB  
Review
Endometriosis and Endometrial Cancer—Association Between Biological Mechanisms and Its Clinical Implications
by Karolina Maria Marczuk, Mateusz Bartosz Mamala, Ewa Magdalena Szuster and Marek Murawski
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(8), 2891; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15082891 - 10 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1189
Abstract
Endometriosis and endometrial cancer are distinct gynecological conditions that share overlapping biological mechanisms with implications for clinical management. Endometriosis is a chronic, benign disorder characterized by the ectopic implantation of functional tissue lining the uterus, primarily affecting women of reproductive age. It commonly [...] Read more.
Endometriosis and endometrial cancer are distinct gynecological conditions that share overlapping biological mechanisms with implications for clinical management. Endometriosis is a chronic, benign disorder characterized by the ectopic implantation of functional tissue lining the uterus, primarily affecting women of reproductive age. It commonly causes chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility. The disease is marked by persistent inflammation, hormonal dysregulation, and alterations in cellular signaling, which mirror some neoplastic processes despite lacking malignant potential. Endometrial cancer is a malignant tumor of the uterine lining, most frequently diagnosed in postmenopausal women. Its incidence is rising due to aging, obesity, and prolonged estrogen exposure. Epidemiological studies suggest a modest increase in endometrial cancer risk among women with endometriosis. However, detection bias and metabolic confounders may influence this association. Both conditions share estrogen dependence, chronic inflammatory microenvironments, and dysregulated pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR. Somatic mutations in genes, including PTEN and ARID1A, further underline molecular intersections. Clinical management is tailored to disease type and severity. Endometriosis therapy emphasizes stepwise hormonal treatment, multidisciplinary pain management, and surgery when indicated. Endometrial cancer management relies on staging, with particular emphasis on molecular classification and histopathology to guide surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy in advanced cases. Emerging noninvasive biomarkers and precision medicine strategies may enhance diagnosis, monitoring, and targeted treatment in both conditions. Understanding their shared and divergent mechanisms aids risk stratification, individualized therapy, and improved quality of life. Further prospective studies are needed to optimize patient-specific management and translate mechanistic insights into clinical practice. Full article
30 pages, 51650 KB  
Article
Jingangteng Capsule Attenuates Ulcerative Colitis via Maintaining the Homeostasis of Intestinal Microbiota and Metabolites, Inhibiting the PI3K-AKT-mTOR Signaling Pathway
by Jing Li, Yue Xiong, Shiyuan Cheng, Dan Liu, Qiong Wei and Xiaochuan Ye
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(4), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19040589 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 770
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Ulcerative colitis (UC) involves inflammatory response, oxidative stress, changes in metabolites, and the gut microbiota. Jingangteng capsule (JGTC) has been utilized clinically for the treatment of inflammatory diseases for many years. However, the efficacy of JGTC in ameliorating UC remains unclear, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Ulcerative colitis (UC) involves inflammatory response, oxidative stress, changes in metabolites, and the gut microbiota. Jingangteng capsule (JGTC) has been utilized clinically for the treatment of inflammatory diseases for many years. However, the efficacy of JGTC in ameliorating UC remains unclear, and the underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. This study aims to investigate the effect and mechanism of JGTC on UC. Methods: The chemical compositions of JGTC were examined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-fight mass spectrometry. The anti-UC effect of JGTC was evaluated by assessing the disease activity index (DAI), colon length, intestinal barrier recovery, and inflammatory factors in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model. Mechanisms were investigated through fecal 16S rDNA sequencing, metabolomics analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Western blotting, and network pharmacology analysis. Results: JGTC significantly reduced the DAI scores in UC mice, increased their body weight and colon length (p < 0.001), repairing damaged intestinal tissue. It decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and LPS (p < 0.01, p < 0.001), alleviating intestinal inflammation. It also raised the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1, Claudin-1, and Occludin (p < 0.05, p < 0.001), thereby enhancing intestinal barrier function. Fecal metabolomic analysis revealed that the favorable alterations in amino acid and lipid metabolites were more pronounced. Heat maps showed strong correlations between pharmacological indicators and gut microbiota, as well as between the main differential metabolites and gut microbial communities. UPLC-QTOF-MS detection yielded 33 components of JGTC, and network pharmacology analysis based on these components predicted pathways of action of JGTC in UC. Functional pathways closely associated with significantly differential metabolites and metabolic pathways were also investigated. The PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway was one of them, which is consistent with the conclusions drawn from network pharmacology. JGTC significantly modulated key factors in this pathway, inhibiting the expression of PI3K, Akt, PDK1, and mTOR, while augmenting the expression of PTEN (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001). It also mitigated the levels of related oxidative stress factors MDA, MPO, and D-LA, and raised SOD levels (p < 0.01, p < 0.001). Conclusions: JGTC improved the excessive inflammatory response in UC by regulating intestinal flora and metabolic disorders, affecting the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway, restoring intestinal tissue damage and intestinal barrier, and inhibiting inflammatory and oxidative stress factors. Full article
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19 pages, 11001 KB  
Article
An Exploratory Biomarker Study of First-Trimester Circulating miRNAs Associated with Later Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
by Miguel Angel Déctor, Valeria Carmen Macías-González, Adriana Sánchez-García, Armando Hernández-Mendoza, Natalia Martínez-Acuña, Ana María Rivas-Estilla, José Gerardo González-González and María Carmen Barboza-Cerda
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(4), 1920; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27041920 - 17 Feb 2026
Viewed by 789
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) develops silently during early pregnancy, yet its earliest circulating molecular signatures remain poorly defined. In this exploratory biomarker study, we characterized first-trimester circulating microRNA (miRNAs) associated with later GDM using a pool-based small RNA sequencing approach. Using a systematic [...] Read more.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) develops silently during early pregnancy, yet its earliest circulating molecular signatures remain poorly defined. In this exploratory biomarker study, we characterized first-trimester circulating microRNA (miRNAs) associated with later GDM using a pool-based small RNA sequencing approach. Using a systematic and unbiased sequencing strategy with locus-level miRNA resolution, we profiled the first-trimester plasma miRNome and prioritized a set of 18 mature miRNAs from among 255 detected species. Set-level functional enrichment analyses based on curated and predicted miRNA–target interactions derived primarily from cellular and tissue-based studies showed annotation-based convergence on pathways related to Ca2+ homeostasis, glucagon–insulin regulatory circuits, and PI3K–AKT signaling. Network analysis indicated coordinated associations among these miRNAs and shared target pathways involved in insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity. Key contributors—including miR-29a-3p, miR-29c-3p, miR-146a-5p, let-7a-5p, and miR-182-5p—were linked, through in silico target annotation, to central metabolic regulators such as PTEN, PIK3R1, AKT1, AKT2, and components of Ca2+ signaling (ATP2A2, CALM1/3, ITPR1, RYR2). These circulating miRNAs should be interpreted primarily as biomarkers reflecting coordinated metabolic states rather than as direct causal mediators. Most identified miRNAs have not been previously reported in the context of first-trimester GDM, supporting the exploratory and hypothesis-generating nature of this circulating miRNA signature in early gestational metabolic research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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16 pages, 6757 KB  
Article
Poricoic Acid A Attenuates Osteoarthritis Progression by Stabilizing PTEN and Suppressing PI3K/AKT Signaling
by Yaoyu Zhang, Meng Zheng, Tingxuan Tang, Jun Xiao and Changyu Liu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(4), 1835; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27041835 - 14 Feb 2026
Viewed by 779
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by chronic inflammation, and progressive cartilage degradation. Poricoic acid A (PAA), a triterpenoid compound derived from Poria cocos, exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic activities, but its therapeutic potential in OA remains unknown. Here, we investigated the protective effects and [...] Read more.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by chronic inflammation, and progressive cartilage degradation. Poricoic acid A (PAA), a triterpenoid compound derived from Poria cocos, exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic activities, but its therapeutic potential in OA remains unknown. Here, we investigated the protective effects and mechanisms of PAA in IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes and a destabilization of a medial meniscus (DMM) mouse model. PAA significantly restored cartilage matrix synthesis, reduced inflammatory catabolism, and alleviated cartilage degeneration in vivo. RNA-seq identified PI3K/AKT signaling as a major pathway regulated by PAA. Mechanistically, PAA stabilized PTEN protein, suppressed PI3K/AKT phosphorylation, and reversed IL-1β-induced cartilage catabolism. PTEN inhibition abolished the beneficial effects of PAA. These findings identify PAA as a promising therapeutic candidate for OA and reveal PTEN-PI3K-AKT as its major regulatory axis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pharmacology)
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21 pages, 7888 KB  
Article
Bacterial Cyclodipeptides Inhibit Invasiveness and Metastasis Progression in the Triple-Negative Breast Cancer MDA-MB-231 Mouse Model
by Mayra Xochitl Durán-Maldonado, Ximena Hernández-Ramos, Marlene Estefania Campos-Morales, Lorena Martínez-Alcantar, Laura Hernández-Padilla and Jesús Campos-García
Molecules 2026, 31(3), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31030543 - 4 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1041
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subtype linked to a high rate of metastasis and low survival rates worldwide. Bacterial cyclodipeptides (CDPs) demonstrate anticancer properties by targeting multiple signaling pathways. The impact of CDPs on TNBC metastasis was evaluated both in [...] Read more.
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subtype linked to a high rate of metastasis and low survival rates worldwide. Bacterial cyclodipeptides (CDPs) demonstrate anticancer properties by targeting multiple signaling pathways. The impact of CDPs on TNBC metastasis was evaluated both in vitro and in advanced-stage tumors in immunosuppressed female mice. CDPs significantly decreased the migratory and invasive capabilities of the MDA-MB-231 cell line, outperforming methotrexate (MTX). This effect was associated with the inhibition of Akt/mTOR/S6K phosphorylation, as well as Gab1, Vimentin, and FOXO1. Mice bearing MDA-MB-231 xenografts treated with CDPs alone or in combination with MTX showed near-complete suppression of primary tumors and metastatic sites in organs; notably, the combined treatment displayed a synergistic effect. Consequently, key proteins involved in tumor progression and metastasis, including p-Akt, p-Gab1, and FOXO1, were markedly inhibited in tumors from CDP-treated mice. Additionally, genes related to EMT, invasiveness, and immune modulation—including PTEN, SNAIL, CXCL1, BRCA1, GADD45A, and PD-L1—were dysregulated in the livers of TNBC-bearing mice; however, CDP treatment restored their expression more effectively than MTX. These findings suggest that the anti-metastatic effects of CDPs in the TNBC xenograft model involve modulation of the Akt/mTOR/S6K pathway, EMT, invasiveness, and immune modulation, highlighting their potential for further preclinical development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Anticancer Compounds and Therapeutic Strategies)
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18 pages, 2530 KB  
Article
Glyoxalase 2 Drives D-Lactate Oncometabolite Signaling to Promote Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness via FAK/Src Activation
by Dominga Manfredelli, Camilla Torcoli, Veronica Ceccarelli, Tatiana Armeni, Guido Bellezza, Vincenzo N. Talesa, Angelo Sidoni and Cinzia Antognelli
Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020171 - 28 Jan 2026
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Abstract
Glyoxalase 2 (Glo2) is a key enzyme of the glyoxalase system that catalyzes the conversion of S-lactoylglutathione (LSG) into glutathione (GSH) and D-lactate. In prostate cancer (PCa), we previously demonstrated that the oncogenic PTEN-PI3K–AKT–mTOR–ERα signaling pathway upregulates Glo2, leading to intracellular D-lactate accumulation [...] Read more.
Glyoxalase 2 (Glo2) is a key enzyme of the glyoxalase system that catalyzes the conversion of S-lactoylglutathione (LSG) into glutathione (GSH) and D-lactate. In prostate cancer (PCa), we previously demonstrated that the oncogenic PTEN-PI3K–AKT–mTOR–ERα signaling pathway upregulates Glo2, leading to intracellular D-lactate accumulation and enhanced cell migration, invasiveness, and expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated markers. However, whether D-lactate acts as a bioactive metabolic signal contributing to tumor aggressiveness remains unclear. Here, after confirming our previous findings, we demonstrate—using Glo2 silencing, ectopic expression, pharmacological inhibitors, and exogenous D-lactate supplementation—that Glo2-dependent D-lactate accumulation promotes EMT-like plasticity, migration, and invasion in PTEN-deficient PCa cells via a functional link with FAK/Src signaling. Collectively, these results suggest that the Glo2–D-lactate axis may contribute to metabolic rewiring associated with aggressive behavior in PTEN-deficient PCa, warranting further in vivo studies to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic target to limit tumor progression. Full article
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Article
Chronic Resistance Exercise Combined with Nutrient Timing Enhances Skeletal Muscle Mass and Strength While Modulating Small Extracellular Vesicle miRNA Profiles
by Dávid Csala, Zoltán Ádám, Zoltán Horváth-Szalai, Balázs Sebesi, Kitti Garai, Krisztián Kvell and Márta Wilhelm
Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010127 - 8 Jan 2026
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Abstract
Background: The anabolic window hypothesis suggests a limited post-exercise period for optimal nutrient uptake and utilization. Prior research indicates that miRNAs in extracellular vesicles (EVs) may regulate post-exercise adaptation by influencing protein synthesis. This study aimed to examine the effects of resistance [...] Read more.
Background: The anabolic window hypothesis suggests a limited post-exercise period for optimal nutrient uptake and utilization. Prior research indicates that miRNAs in extracellular vesicles (EVs) may regulate post-exercise adaptation by influencing protein synthesis. This study aimed to examine the effects of resistance exercise (RE) on physiological parameters and the expression and function of miRNAs transported in EVs. Methods: Twenty resistance-trained male participants (22 ± 2 years) completed a five-week RE program designed for hypertrophy. They consumed maltodextrin and whey protein based on assigned nutrient timing: immediately post-exercise (AE), three hours post-exercise (AE3), or no intake (CTRL). Body composition and knee extensor strength were assessed. Small EVs were isolated and then validated via three methods. Nanoparticle tracking analysis determined EV concentration and size, followed by pooled miRNA profiling and signaling pathway analysis. Results: Skeletal muscle mass significantly increased in AE (p = 0.001, g = 2) and AE3 (p = 0.028, g = 1), and it was higher in AE compared to CTRL (p = 0.013, η2 = 0.41), while knee extensor strength improved only in AE (p = 0.032, g = 0.9). Body fat percentage significantly decreased in all groups, AE (p = 0.005, g = 1.5), AE3 (p = 0.024, g = 1), and CTRL (p = 0.005, g = 1.7). Vesicle concentration significantly increased in the AE group (p = 0.043, r = 0.7), while it decreased in the CTRL group (p = 0.046, r = 0.8). Distinct miRNA expression profiles emerged post-intervention: 20 miRNAs were upregulated in AE, while 13 in AE3 and 15 in CTRL were downregulated. Conclusions: Nutrient timing influences training adaptation but is not more critical than total macronutrient intake. Changes in EV-transported miRNAs may regulate anabolic processes via the PI3K-AKT-mTOR and FoxO pathways through PTEN regulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue MicroRNA and Its Role in Human Health, 2nd Edition)
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