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22 pages, 3110 KB  
Article
Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside-Rich Black Rice Fraction Attenuates IL-1β/IL-6-Driven A549 Lung Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion and Modulates JAK1/STAT3 Signaling
by Warathit Semmarath, Punnida Arjsri, Kamonwan Srisawad, Intranee Intanil, Sansanee Jamjod, Chanakan Prom-u-thai and Pornngarm Dejkriengkraikul
Nutrients 2026, 18(8), 1198; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18081198 - 10 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Inflammatory mediators within the tumor microenvironment contribute to lung cancer progression by enhancing cellular motility and invasive capacity through cytokine-dependent signaling networks. Modulation of these inflammation-associated pathways by dietary bioactive compounds may provide complementary strategies for limiting cancer aggressiveness. Our objective was [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Inflammatory mediators within the tumor microenvironment contribute to lung cancer progression by enhancing cellular motility and invasive capacity through cytokine-dependent signaling networks. Modulation of these inflammation-associated pathways by dietary bioactive compounds may provide complementary strategies for limiting cancer aggressiveness. Our objective was to examine the inhibitory effects of a cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G)-rich fraction from Kum Akha pigmented black rice (CKAB-P1) on inflammation-stimulated A549 cancer cell progression. Methods: CKAB-P1 was obtained through solvent-partition extraction and chemically characterized using the pH differential method and high-performance liquid chromatography. A549 cells were pretreated with CKAB-P1 or C3G, followed by stimulation with conditioned medium predominantly containing IL-6 and IL-1β derived from LPS-exposed THP-1 macrophages (THP-1-CS). Effects on cancer cell migration and invasion were evaluated using wound-healing, Transwell invasion, gelatin zymography, and Western blot analyses. Results: CKAB-P1 contained 106.62 ± 3.54 mg/g extract of total anthocyanins, with C3G representing the major constituent (59.42 ± 2.54 mg/g extract). Exposure of THP-1-CS stimulated migration and invasion of A549 lung cancer, and neutralization of IL-6 and IL-1β reduced these pro-migratory effects, confirming cytokine involvement. Treatment with CKAB-P1 (10–40 μg/mL) or C3G (2.5–20 μg/mL) markedly attenuated inflammation-enhanced migration and invasion (p < 0.05). A reduction in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity, along with decreased expression of invasion-associated protein expressions (uPA, uPAR, and MT1-MMP), was observed. Furthermore, both CKAB-P1 and C3G attenuated phosphorylation of JAK1 and STAT3. Conclusions: These findings suggest that anthocyanin-enriched black rice fraction may limit inflammation-driven A549 lung cancer cell aggressiveness through modulation of the cytokine-driven JAK1/STAT3 signaling cascade, indicating its potential relevance as a bioactive dietary component targeting tumor-associated inflammatory signaling. Full article
19 pages, 719 KB  
Article
Severity of Hypoxia-Induced Effects on 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Secretory Function Is Attenuated Dose-Dependently by Individual Short-Chain Fatty Acids
by Jessie L. Burns, Kelsey Van, Ala Alzubi, Clara E. Cho and Jennifer M. Monk
Nutrients 2026, 18(6), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18060942 - 17 Mar 2026
Viewed by 399
Abstract
Background: Microbial fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates and proteins produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are critical communication signals in the gut–adipose tissue axis. Individual SCFA can differentially modulate the adipocyte secretory profile and adipose tissue metabolic function; however, their dose-dependent effects on [...] Read more.
Background: Microbial fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates and proteins produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are critical communication signals in the gut–adipose tissue axis. Individual SCFA can differentially modulate the adipocyte secretory profile and adipose tissue metabolic function; however, their dose-dependent effects on adipocyte function in combined inflammatory and hypoxic environmental conditions that reflect the obesity-associated adipose tissue phenotype remain unknown. Methods: Mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes were cultured for 24 h with lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 10 ng/mL) plus 100 µM of cobalt chloride (CoCl2) to chemically induce hypoxia ± individual SCFAs, namely acetate (Ace), propionate (Pro), and butyrate (But), in a dose-dependent manner (0.25 mM, 0.5 mM, and 1 mM). Results: Ace, Pro and But reduced secretion of IL-6, MCP-1/CCL7 and Rantes/CCL5 in a dose-dependent manner, whereas Pro and But reduced MCP3/CCL7 secretion and only But reduced resistin and increased adiponectin secretion compared to control (p < 0.05). Intracellular protein expression of the ratio of phosphorylated–to–total NFκB p65 was reduced by 1 mM But, whereas the ratio of phosphorylated–to–total STAT3 expression was reduced by 1 mM Ace, Pro and But and 0.5 mM Pro and But compared to control (p < 0.05). There was no difference in insulin-stimulated or non-insulin-stimulated glucose uptake between control and any individual SCFAs (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Adipocyte adipokine secretory function in combined inflammation and hypoxic environmental conditions is dose-dependently attenuated by individual SCFA, which exhibit both individual and overlapping effects. Full article
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19 pages, 1547 KB  
Systematic Review
From Biomaterial Innovation to Surgical Practice: A Systematic Review of RADA16 Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogel in Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery
by Antonio Moffa, Domiziana Nardelli, Francesco Iafrati, Giannicola Iannella, Annalisa Pace, Peter Baptista and Manuele Casale
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2113; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062113 - 10 Mar 2026
Viewed by 592
Abstract
Background: Postoperative bleeding is a frequent complication in otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, often leading to readmissions and increased healthcare costs. Objectives: This systematic review evaluates the clinical efficacy, safety, and impact of RADA16, a synthetic self-assembling peptide hydrogel, as [...] Read more.
Background: Postoperative bleeding is a frequent complication in otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, often leading to readmissions and increased healthcare costs. Objectives: This systematic review evaluates the clinical efficacy, safety, and impact of RADA16, a synthetic self-assembling peptide hydrogel, as a topical haemostatic adjunct in this surgical field. Methods: In adherence with PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted through December 2025. Eligible studies included adult patients undergoing otolaryngological or head and neck surgical procedures where RADA16 (CAS 289042-25-7, PuraBond®/PuraStat®/PuraGel®, ®, 3-D Matrix SAS; Caluire et Cuire, Lyon, France) was applied intraoperatively. Exclusion criteria included non-English publications, reviews, and studies without clinical outcome data. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for RCTs and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies. A narrative synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity in outcome reporting. Results: Eight studies involving 1761 patients were included. In oropharyngeal surgery, RADA16 significantly reduced postoperative haemorrhage (6.3% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.016) and was associated with faster resumption of normal diet and lower pain scores (p = 0.016). In nasal surgery, it significantly lowered epistaxis rates (0.4% vs. 2.2%, adjusted OR 0.027, p = 0.026) and reduced the need for nasal packing. In cervical endocrine surgery, the rate of hematoma requiring revision was low (0.84%), with no delayed bleeding beyond 24 h. Surgeons consistently reported high satisfaction and ease of application. No serious device-related adverse events were reported. Discussion: Current evidence suggests RADA16 is a safe and effective haemostatic adjunct that can improve postoperative recovery and reduce readmission rates in specific surgical contexts. Limitations include heterogeneity in study designs, small sample sizes in some domains, and a lack of long-term follow-up. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to quantify its economic impact and formalize its role in surgical pathways. Funding: This study was funded by 3-D Matrix Medical Technology for article processing charges. The funder had no role in study design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, or writing. Registration: This review was not registered in a systematic review registry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Otolaryngology)
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17 pages, 4462 KB  
Article
Nitroxoline Enhances Radiosensitivity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer by Suppressing STAT3-AKT-MTOR Survival Signaling
by Eun-Young Gong, Hye Won Lee, Hyunseung Oh, Jae-Ho Lee, Sang Jun Byun, Jeong-Woo Hwang, Sung Uk Bae, Hyowon Hong and Young Woo Do
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(5), 2504; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27052504 - 9 Mar 2026
Viewed by 482
Abstract
Radiotherapy is the central component in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment. Nonetheless, its therapeutic effectiveness is frequently compromised by adaptive engagement of prosurvival signaling pathways that foster radioresistance. STAT3 functions as the central signaling node that orchestrates cellular survival responses following radiation [...] Read more.
Radiotherapy is the central component in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment. Nonetheless, its therapeutic effectiveness is frequently compromised by adaptive engagement of prosurvival signaling pathways that foster radioresistance. STAT3 functions as the central signaling node that orchestrates cellular survival responses following radiation exposure. This study investigated whether nitroxoline, a clinically approved antimicrobial agent with STAT3-inhibitory activity, enhances radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells and how these effects are mechanistically regulated. We examined the combined effects of nitroxoline and radiation on cell viability and associated signaling pathways in NSCLC cells. Nitroxoline significantly enhanced radiation-induced cytotoxicity and suppressed clonogenic survival compared with radiation alone. Irradiation increased STAT3, AKT, and mTOR phosphorylation, whereas nitroxoline effectively suppressed the basal and radiation-induced activation of these pathways. The combination treatment markedly augmented radiation-induced apoptosis, as demonstrated by increased p53 expression and enhanced PARP and caspase-3 cleavage. Additionally, nitroxoline amplified radiation-induced DNA damage signaling, resulting in pronounced γ-H2AX and DNA-PKcs accumulation. Nitroxoline enhanced NSCLC cell radiosensitivity by suppressing STAT3–AKT–mTOR survival signaling, promoting apoptosis, and amplifying radiation-induced DNA damage, indicating the potential of repurposing nitroxoline as a radiosensitizer to improve radiotherapy outcomes in patients with NSCLC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Cancer Biomarkers)
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17 pages, 47750 KB  
Article
Resveratrol and AG490 Overcome Glioblastoma Cells’ Resistance to Monotherapy by Inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 Signalling Pathway
by Aziz Ullah and Chuanchun Han
Cancers 2026, 18(5), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050794 - 28 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 452
Abstract
Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive malignancy of the central nervous system (CNS) and is characterized by poor prognosis and significant resistance to available treatments. Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are the standard treatments; however, their efficacy is often limited by [...] Read more.
Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive malignancy of the central nervous system (CNS) and is characterized by poor prognosis and significant resistance to available treatments. Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are the standard treatments; however, their efficacy is often limited by resistance. Resveratrol (RES), a naturally occurring polyphenol with antioxidant properties, has shown significant anticancer effects through inhibition of multiple cellular pathways. However, our earlier research revealed that the LN428 cell exhibited resistance, while the U251 cell showed sensitivity to RES monotherapy. Hence, RES and AG490, a JAK2 inhibitor, were used to overcome GBM cell resistance, which might enhance therapeutic efficacy. Methods: Human GBM cell lines LN428 and U251 were used. CCK-8, H&E staining, transwell, wound healing, calcein AM/PI, and flow cytometry assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. Molecular docking was performed to analyze the binding energy. Western blot, immunocytochemistry (ICC), and immunofluorescence (IF) were used to assess protein expression following treatment with RES, AG490, and their combination. Results: The results revealed that U251 cells were more sensitive to RES, AG490, and RES + AG490 than LN428 cells. Additionally, the combination of both compounds significantly reduced cell viability, proliferation, and migration, while increasing apoptosis in the LN428 and U251 cell lines. Moreover, the combination of RES and AG490 led to increased BAX protein expression while decreasing BCL-2 expression in LN428 and U251 cell lines. Notably, the monotherapy administration of RES did not significantly inhibit STAT3 or pSTAT3 protein expression in LN428 cells, while combination therapy significantly inhibited the expression of these proteins in LN428 and U251 cell lines. Conclusions: The concurrent administration of RES and AG490 effectively inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway and enhanced antitumor effects in GBM cells, indicating their potential as a therapeutic strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Cancer Biology)
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25 pages, 3677 KB  
Review
Gout Inflammation Time Programming: Molecular Clock from Crystal Triggering to Tissue Remodeling
by Xin Chen, Chunyuan Zhang, Hanwen Zheng, Qingping Shi, Beiyan Chen and Jieru Han
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(3), 1523; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27031523 - 4 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 837
Abstract
This review introduces and elaborates a novel temporal paradigm, the “Gout Inflammation Time Programming” model, conceptualized through the Gout-STAT™ framework. This model redefines gout inflammation as a dynamic continuum progressing through three precisely timed phases: an acute Perception phase (0–24 h) initiated by [...] Read more.
This review introduces and elaborates a novel temporal paradigm, the “Gout Inflammation Time Programming” model, conceptualized through the Gout-STAT™ framework. This model redefines gout inflammation as a dynamic continuum progressing through three precisely timed phases: an acute Perception phase (0–24 h) initiated by monosodium urate (MSU) crystal recognition, triggering the NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and neutrophil-driven burst; a critical Adaptation phase (24–72 h) where outcomes are determined by immunometabolic reprogramming of macrophages and synovial fibroblasts; and a chronic Tissue Injury phase (>72 h) driven by epigenetic memory, leading to irreversible osteoarticular destruction. Deciphering this programmed timeline reveals distinct therapeutic windows. We propose a shift towards stage-specific precision interventions, targeting upstream triggers (e.g., mitochondrial reactive oxygen species(ROS), neutrophil extracellular trap formation (NETosis)) in the acute phase, correcting metabolic checkpoints (e.g., succinate accumulation, impaired autophagy) during adaptation, and employing tissue-protective strategies (e.g., epigenetic modulators) in the chronic phase. Furthermore, we highlight the pivotal role of cutting-edge translational technologies, such as intelligent drug delivery systems and digital twin joint models, in achieving spatiotemporal precision. Understanding this intrinsic molecular clock is fundamental for advancing gout management from reactive treatment to a predictive, preventive, and personalized 4P medicine approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Immunology)
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27 pages, 4785 KB  
Article
Rational Design, Synthesis, and Molecular Docking of Novel Terpene Analogues of Imatinib, and Their Inhibition on Downstream BCR-ABL Signaling
by Rositsa Mihaylova, Asine Dailova-Barzeva, Irena Philipova, Georgi Momekov, Irini Doytchinova, Mariyana Atanasova and Georgi Stavrakov
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(2), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19020198 - 23 Jan 2026
Viewed by 662
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Imatinib, the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor, marks the beginning of a revolution in clinical oncology. Disrupting oncogenic kinase-dependent signaling pathways represents a key strategy for advancing targeted cancer therapies. Terpene analogues of imatinib were developed to probe the influence of terminal [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Imatinib, the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor, marks the beginning of a revolution in clinical oncology. Disrupting oncogenic kinase-dependent signaling pathways represents a key strategy for advancing targeted cancer therapies. Terpene analogues of imatinib were developed to probe the influence of terminal ring modifications on BCR-ABL inhibition and downstream oncogenic signaling. Methods: Nine novel imatinib analogues bearing bulky aliphatic moieties were designed, synthesised, and structurally characterized by 1H/13C NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Molecular docking calculations were performed to assess the binding modes and intermolecular interactions. The cytotoxicity of the newly synthesized imatinib derivatives was evaluated across a panel of BCR-ABL+ leukemia cell lines. Results: Molecular docking analyses demonstrated conserved interactions within the ATP-binding site of BCR-ABL for all derivatives, with calculated docking scores ranging between 123 and 128, while modifications at the terminal ring introduced subtle changes in electrostatic and steric profiles. Biological evaluation using MTT-based cytotoxicity assays in BCR-ABL+ leukemic cell lines revealed enhanced antiproliferative activity compared with imatinib, with compounds 6a (flexible cyclohexyl) and 6d (rigid camphane-type (+)-isopinocampheyl) exhibiting the lowest micromolar activity in the AR-230 model (IC50 values of 1.1 and 1.2 μM, respectively). Proteome-wide phosphokinase profiling demonstrated shared suppression of STAT5/3/6, RSK1/2, S6K1/p70, and Pyk2, confirming effective disruption of canonical BCR-ABL pathways. Critically, the terpene moiety dictated downstream pathway bias: 6a preferentially attenuated CREB activation, whereas 6d more effectively suppressed the PI3K/Akt oncogenic axis and strongly activated proapoptotic p53-mediated stress responses. Conclusions: Our findings establish terpene-engineered imatinib analogues as tunable modulators and promising candidates for targeting downstream BCR-ABL signaling pathways in leukemia treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Enzymes in Drug Design and Discovery)
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13 pages, 2663 KB  
Article
Heritability and Transcriptional Impact of JAK3, STAT5A and STAT6 Variants in a Tyrolean Family
by Hye Kyung Lee, Teemu Haikarainen, Yasemin Caf, Priscilla A. Furth, Ludwig Knabl, Olli Silvennoinen and Lothar Hennighausen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020913 - 16 Jan 2026
Viewed by 432
Abstract
The Janus Kinase (JAK) and Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STAT) pathways regulate a range of biological processes, including immune response and hematopoiesis. While a major research focus has been on somatic human mutations in disease, less is known about the heritability [...] Read more.
The Janus Kinase (JAK) and Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STAT) pathways regulate a range of biological processes, including immune response and hematopoiesis. While a major research focus has been on somatic human mutations in disease, less is known about the heritability of germline variants and their physiological impact. This study addresses an important issue in population genetics: the context-dependent effects and incomplete penetrance of rare genetic variants in immune pathways. Here we identify the rare JAK3P151R, JAK3R925S, STAT5AV494L, and STAT6Q633H variants in an extended family spanning three generations, integrate in silico analyses and AlphaFold 3 structural predictions, and investigate the immune transcriptomes in probands carrying one or more variants. All four variants are inherited through the germline without any evident clinical or physiological manifestations in the carriers. As individual variants, not all persons carrying a specific variant showed the same immune transcriptome. The presence of activated basal transcriptomes was limited to some, but not all, individuals carrying the above variants. A next step in understanding the role of germline variants will be to understand how and why other factors, including both other germline variants and environmental and developmental factors, influence the likelihood of expression of an activated basal transcriptome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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13 pages, 728 KB  
Article
Threshold Effect of Time to Admission on Long-Term Mortality in Geriatric Hip Fractures: A 24-H Critical Window Identified
by Bin-Fei Zhang and Ming-Xu Wang
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020752 - 16 Jan 2026
Viewed by 354
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between time to admission (TTA) and long-term mortality in patients with hip fractures, enabling surgeons to assess individual risks and prevent adverse outcomes. Methods: Demographic and clinical data of patients with hip fractures were obtained [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between time to admission (TTA) and long-term mortality in patients with hip fractures, enabling surgeons to assess individual risks and prevent adverse outcomes. Methods: Demographic and clinical data of patients with hip fractures were obtained from medical records in our hospital. Patients aged 65 years or older were included. TTA was defined as the time from injury to first presentation at our institution. The primary outcome was long-term all-cause mortality. The regular multivariate Cox regression, restricted cubic spline, and two-piecewise model were used to explain the linear and curvilinear association between TTA and long-term mortality. The analyses were performed using EmpowerStats and R. Results: A total of 2361 patients were included in our study. There were 743 males and 1618 females, with a mean age of 79.44 ± 6.71 years. There were 1745 intertrochanteric fractures and 616 femoral neck fractures. We divided the patients into four groups according to TTA distribution: TTA ≤ 6 h, 6 h < TTA ≤ 12 h, 12 h < TTA ≤ 24 h, and TTA > 24 h, and the corresponding long-term mortality rates were 254 (25.53%), 85 (32.20%), 127 (32.56%), and 267 (37.50%). A curvilinear association was observed between TTA delay and long-term mortality in geriatric hip fractures, with 24 h serving as an inflection point. When TTA was less than 24 h, every one-hour increase in TTA was associated with a 1.6% increase in long-term mortality (HR = 1.016, 95% CI: 1.008–1.024; p < 0.001). When TTA exceeded 24 h, the long-term mortality risk showed no significant further increase with TTA (HR = 1.000, 95% CI: 1.000–1.000; p = 0.531). Conclusions: This study suggests that delayed admission is associated with a worse prognosis, and the mortality risk increases by approximately 1.6% per hour of delay within the first 24 h, after which the risk appears to stabilize. The first 24 h post-injury may represent a critical window for intervention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geriatric Fracture Care: Bridging Orthopedics and Gerontology)
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27 pages, 4713 KB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence-Enhanced Molecular Profiling of JAK-STAT Pathway Alterations in FOLFOX-Treated Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
by Fernando C. Diaz, Brigette Waldrup, Francisco G. Carranza, Sophia Manjarrez and Enrique Velazquez-Villarreal
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010479 - 2 Jan 2026
Viewed by 693
Abstract
Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) continues to rise, with the steepest increases observed among Hispanic/Latino (H/L) populations, underscoring the urgency of identifying ancestry- and treatment-specific biomarkers. The JAK-STAT signaling axis plays a central role in colorectal tumor biology, yet its relevance under FOLFOX-based chemotherapy [...] Read more.
Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) continues to rise, with the steepest increases observed among Hispanic/Latino (H/L) populations, underscoring the urgency of identifying ancestry- and treatment-specific biomarkers. The JAK-STAT signaling axis plays a central role in colorectal tumor biology, yet its relevance under FOLFOX-based chemotherapy in EOCRC remains poorly defined. In this study, we evaluated 2515 colorectal cancer (CRC) cases (266 H/L; 2249 non-Hispanic White [NHW]), stratifying analyses by ancestry, age of onset, and FOLFOX exposure. Statistical comparisons were performed using Fisher’s exact and chi-square tests, and survival patterns were assessed via Kaplan–Meier analysis. To extend conventional analytics, we deployed AI-HOPE and AI-HOPE-JAK-STAT, conversational artificial intelligence platforms capable of harmonizing genomic, clinical, demographic, and treatment variables through natural language queries, to accelerate multi-parameter biomarker exploration. JAK-STAT pathway alterations showed marked variation by ancestry and treatment context. Among H/L EOCRC cases, alterations were significantly enriched in patients who did not receive FOLFOX compared with those who did (21.2% vs. 4.1%; p = 0.003). A similar pattern emerged in late-onset CRC (LOCRC) NHW patients, where alterations were more frequent without FOLFOX exposure (13.3% vs. 7.5%; p = 0.0002). Notably, JAK-STAT alterations were significantly more common in untreated H/L EOCRC compared with untreated NHW EOCRC (21.2% vs. 9.9%; p = 0.002). Survival analyses revealed that JAK-STAT pathway alterations conferred improved overall survival across several NHW strata, including EOCRC treated with FOLFOX (p = 0.0008), EOCRC not treated with FOLFOX (p = 0.07), and LOCRC not treated with FOLFOX (p = 0.01). These findings suggest that JAK-STAT alterations may function as ancestry- and treatment-dependent prognostic markers in EOCRC, particularly among disproportionately affected H/L patients. However, prognostic interpretation in H/L subgroups is limited by small mutation-positive sample sizes, reflecting historical underrepresentation and highlighting the need for larger ancestry-balanced studies. The integration of AI-enabled platforms streamlined analyses and reveals the potential of artificial intelligence to accelerate discovery and advance precision medicine for populations historically underrepresented in cancer genomics research. Full article
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20 pages, 3745 KB  
Article
In Vitro Effects of Extracellular Vesicles from Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells on the Growth and Metastasis of Cultured Breast Cancer Cells via Downregulation of Interleukin-6 Expression and the Microtubule Network
by Huyen Thi La, Hai Manh Tran, Phuc Minh Thi Le, Huyen Thi Ngo, Hanh Hong Hoang, Da Thi Nguyen, Linh Thuy Nguyen, Nghia Trong Nguyen, Lien Ha Thi Nghiem, Van Hanh Nguyen, Long Hoang Nguyen, Van Ngoc Bui, Nam Trung Nguyen and Ha Hoang Chu
Biology 2026, 15(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15010052 - 28 Dec 2025
Viewed by 711
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy worldwide and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have attracted increasing attention for their potential to modulate inflammatory signaling and influence tumor cell behavior. This [...] Read more.
Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy worldwide and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have attracted increasing attention for their potential to modulate inflammatory signaling and influence tumor cell behavior. This in vitro study was designed to investigate the effects of ADSC-EVs on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. EVs were isolated from ADSC culture supernatants and applied to MCF-7 cells at concentrations ranging from 0 to 80% (v/v). Cell viability, migration, and expression of IL-6/STAT3 pathway-related genes were evaluated using MTT, scratch assays, and qRT-PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05. The results showed that 20% EV treatment markedly inhibited MCF-7 cell activity, significantly reducing viability and almost completely blocking migration, with wound closure rates of 35.4% ± 3.80 at 24 h and 47.6% ± 4.2 at 48 h, compared with 48% ± 4.6 and 67% ± 4.2 in the control group, respectively. Notably, expression levels of IL-6, IL-6RST, and STAT3 were significantly downregulated (fold changes 0.155 ± 0.02 and 0.258 ± 0.012, p < 0.01), accompanied by severe disruption of the microtubule network. Immunofluorescence imaging revealed a disorganized microtubule architecture and irregular filament distribution in EV-treated cells, corresponding with decreased expression of TubA1 and CALR genes. These findings indicate that ADSC-EVs not only suppress IL-6/STAT3 inflammatory signaling but also destabilize the intracellular microtubule system, collectively contributing to the inhibition of MCF-7 breast cancer cell migration and survival. This provides an important molecular basis for developing novel EV-based therapeutic strategies in breast cancer treatment. Full article
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21 pages, 2736 KB  
Article
Finding the True Responders: Stratifying dMMR/MSI-H Tumors for ICI Response
by Nari Kim, Seongwon Na, Jisung Jang, Mihyun Kim, Jun Hee Pyo and Kyung Won Kim
Cancers 2026, 18(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18010018 - 19 Dec 2025
Viewed by 782
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show durable efficacy in tumors with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) or high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), yet clinical responses remain heterogeneous. This study aimed to define immune subgroups within dMMR/MSI-H tumors and develop a reproducible transcriptomic signature predictive [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show durable efficacy in tumors with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) or high microsatellite instability (MSI-H), yet clinical responses remain heterogeneous. This study aimed to define immune subgroups within dMMR/MSI-H tumors and develop a reproducible transcriptomic signature predictive of ICI response. Methods: Four MSI-H-enriched cancer types (UCEC, COAD, READ, STAD) from The Cancer Genome Atlas were analyzed. Tumors were stratified by immune cell infiltration (MCP-counter immune composite score) and T-cell-inflamed gene expression profiles (GEP score). Integrating these two axes defined four immune subgroups. Differential expression, random forest feature selection, and pathway enrichment were performed to identify immune programs. A 20-gene immune signature representing the most immune-active subgroup was developed and validated across TCGA, GEO (GSE39582), and IMvigor210 cohorts. Results: Among the four subgroups, the most immune-active group showed strong activation of interferon signaling, antigen presentation, and T-cell-mediated pathways. The 20-gene signature—including CD74, STAT1, TAP1, and HLA-class genes—achieved high reproducibility (mean AUC = 0.95 ± 0.02; accuracy ≈ 89%). In the IMvigor210 cohort, this signature identified tumors with higher PD-L1 blockade response (55.6% vs. 32.8%, p = 0.034) and improved survival trends in the TMB-high subset. Conclusions: The proposed 20-gene signature quantitatively captures immune heterogeneity in dMMR/MSI-H tumors and serves as a practical, interpretable biomarker to identify true ICI responders and guide precision immunotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy)
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12 pages, 1455 KB  
Article
Effects on Condylar Position of Head Flexion Typically Induced by the Use of Portable Electronic Devices: An Observational Study
by Marian Turbatu, Laura Pittari, Francesco Ferrini, Teresa Laborante, Alessandro Nota and Simona Tecco
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(24), 13245; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152413245 - 17 Dec 2025
Viewed by 729
Abstract
The widespread use of portable electronic devices has increasingly promoted the prolonged maintenance of non-physiological postures, particularly anterior and downward head flexion. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the condylar and incisor relationship displacement induced by this improper posture. A total of 20 [...] Read more.
The widespread use of portable electronic devices has increasingly promoted the prolonged maintenance of non-physiological postures, particularly anterior and downward head flexion. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the condylar and incisor relationship displacement induced by this improper posture. A total of 20 adult subjects (9 F, 11 M; mean age 27 ± 5) were recruited at the Department of Dentistry, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy. Mandibular kinematics was recorded using JMA-Optic AG (Zebris Medical GmbH, Isny, Germany). The protocol adopted consisted of three phases: (1) Habitual occlusion with light clenching, (2) Neuromuscular rest position (RP) verified by surface electromyography (sEMG), (3) Anterior head flexion (40–60°) (HF), simulating the posture typically observed during portable digital device use. Millimetric measurements of condylar displacement from RP to HF and incisal plane changes were collected. Data were analyzed descriptively with Microsoft Excel, and inferentially with StatPlus Pro (AnalystSoft, StatPlus: mac Pro, version 8). The right condyle exhibited a mean displacement of 1.9 mm in the downward direction (p < 0.001), while the left condyle showed a downward displacement of 1.5 mm (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed between the two sides. At the dental level, the lower incisor revealed a mean shift of 1.0 mm superiorly (p < 0.001) and 0.7 mm anteriorly (p < 0.001). The HF determines a significant condylar and incisal plane displacement, and may predispose individuals to TMJ disorders, supporting the hypothesis of an emerging cranio-cervico-mandibular condition linked to prolonged use of high-tech display terminals, here proposed as ED-TMD (Electronic Device-Induced Temporomandibular Disorder). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Materials and Technologies in Orthodontics)
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20 pages, 6780 KB  
Article
The Mitigating Effect and Mechanism of Polydeoxyribonucleotide Against Zoledronic Acid-Induced Growth Suppression of Human Gingival Fibroblasts
by Shailashree Pachhapure, Young-Min Shin, Duk Gyu Kim, Dong-Rak Choi, Jong-IL Yun, Jae-Hong Kim and Byeong-Churl Jang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(23), 11367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262311367 - 24 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1013
Abstract
Zoledronic acid (ZA), a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate, is widely used to treat osteoporosis and bone metastases. However, its clinical application is limited by adverse effects, notably bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), which is associated with cytotoxicity in oral mucosal cells. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a [...] Read more.
Zoledronic acid (ZA), a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate, is widely used to treat osteoporosis and bone metastases. However, its clinical application is limited by adverse effects, notably bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), which is associated with cytotoxicity in oral mucosal cells. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a salmon sperm-derived DNA polymer with regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown therapeutic potential in tissue repair; however, its ability to mitigate ZA-induced cytotoxicity remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of ZA-induced toxicity in HGF-1 cells, a human gingival fibroblast line, and evaluated the protective effects of PDRN. ZA treatment (50 µM, 48 h) significantly inhibited HGF-1 cell growth, accompanied by reduced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (PKB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT-3), along with increased phosphorylation of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1). TBK1 silencing restored cell growth under ZA exposure, whereas silencing PKB or STAT-3 further suppressed cell growth even without ZA. Co-treatment with PDRN (100 µg/mL) effectively prevented and reversed ZA-induced HGF-1 cytotoxicity. Mechanistically, PDRN inhibited ZA-induced TBK1 phosphorylation and partially restored PKB phosphorylation, though it did not reverse the reduction in p-STAT-3. Additionally, ZA significantly elevated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels at 8 h, which were attenuated by PDRN. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) similarly reduced ZA-induced ROS and p-TBK1 levels and improved cell growth, although it had limited effects on p-PKB at 8 h. Importantly, delayed PDRN treatment following ZA exposure reversed ZA-induced cell growth inhibition and TBK1 activation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In summary, these findings demonstrate that ZA suppresses HGF-1 cell growth through ROS production, TBK1 activation, and inhibition of PKB and STAT-3, whereas PDRN counteracts these effects primarily by suppressing TBK1 activation and oxidative stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biotechnology to Dental Treatment)
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20 pages, 5526 KB  
Article
Staphylococcus aureus Mastitis: A Time-Course Transcriptome of Immune Activation in Small-Tailed Han Sheep
by Xiaoli Zhang, Li Wang, Wenzhe Chen, Xiaoyu Song, Meng Wang, Xiaojun Ma, Lijiao Yan and Chuan Wang
Pathogens 2025, 14(11), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14111133 - 7 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1189
Abstract
Mastitis is a common mammary gland disease in mammals that severely impairs lactation function, with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) being the primary pathogenic bacterium. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying S. aureus-induced mastitis in sheep remain incompletely elucidated. This study employed [...] Read more.
Mastitis is a common mammary gland disease in mammals that severely impairs lactation function, with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) being the primary pathogenic bacterium. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying S. aureus-induced mastitis in sheep remain incompletely elucidated. This study employed RNA sequencing (RNA-SEq) technology to systematically analyze the dynamic transcriptomic characteristics of mammary tissue in small-tailed sheep (SHT) after S. aureus infection, aiming to clarify the molecular regulatory mechanism of the host immune response and its relationship with the occurrence of mastitis. Twelve lactating STH were selected to establish an S. aureus-induced mastitis model. Blood, milk, and tissue samples were collected at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h post-infection (hpi). The infected sheep exhibited typical mastitis symptoms, including exacerbated breast swelling, reduced milk yield, elevated udder temperature, and darker, more viscous milk. Hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining revealed significant pathological changes over time, such as stromal hyperplasia, extensive inflammatory cell infiltration, severe necrosis and sloughing of mammary epithelial cells, and compromised tissue integrity. RNA-Seq analysis identified 1299 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), among which 75 core genes maintained stable expression throughout the infection time (24 hpi, 48 hpi, and 72 hpi). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses indicated that these DEGs were associated with metabolic processes, protein binding, Toll-like receptor signaling, and the NF-κB pathway. The PPI network analysis identified core hub genes including PTK2B, STAT3, and JAK1/3, providing critical evidence for therapeutic target screening. Furthermore, qPCR verification indicated that the expressions of innate immune receptors TLR2, TLR4, TLR7, and TLR10, as well as pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-16, TNF-α, type I interferon (IFN-α), and nuclear transcription factor NF-κB were significantly upregulated in a time-dependent manner (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study delineated the dynamic response of ovine mammary tissue to S. aureus infection, systematically elucidated temporal gene expression patterns, and revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying the tissue’s initial defense against inflammatory challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases of Animals)
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