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19 pages, 1016 KiB  
Article
Genetic Associations of ITGB3, FGG, GP1BA, PECAM1, and PEAR1 Polymorphisms and the Platelet Activation Pathway with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in the Korean Population
by Eun Ju Ko, Eun Hee Ahn, Hyeon Woo Park, Jae Hyun Lee, Da Hwan Kim, Young Ran Kim, Ji Hyang Kim and Nam Keun Kim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7505; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157505 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 217
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is defined as the occurrence of two or more pregnancy losses before 20 weeks of gestation. RPL is a common medical condition among reproductive-age women, with approximately 23 million cases reported annually worldwide. Up to 5% of pregnant women [...] Read more.
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is defined as the occurrence of two or more pregnancy losses before 20 weeks of gestation. RPL is a common medical condition among reproductive-age women, with approximately 23 million cases reported annually worldwide. Up to 5% of pregnant women may experience two or more consecutive pregnancy losses. Previous studies have investigated risk factors for RPL, including maternal age, uterine pathology, genetic anomalies, infectious agents, endocrine disorders, thrombophilia, and immune dysfunction. However, RPL is a disease caused by a complex interaction of genetic factors, environmental factors (e.g., diet, lifestyle, and stress), epigenetic factors, and the immune system. In addition, due to the lack of research on genetics research related to RPL, the etiology remains unclear in up to 50% of cases. Platelets play a critical role in pregnancy maintenance. This study examined the associations of platelet receptor and ligand gene variants, including integrin subunit beta 3 (ITGB3) rs2317676 A > G, rs3809865 A > T; fibrinogen gamma chain (FGG) rs1049636 T > C, rs2066865 T > C; glycoprotein 1b subunit alpha (GP1BA) rs2243093 T > C, rs6065 C > T; platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM1) rs2812 C > T; and platelet endothelial aggregation receptor 1 (PEAR1) rs822442 C > A, rs12137505 G > A, with RPL prevalence. In total, 389 RPL patients and 375 healthy controls (all Korean women) were enrolled. Genotyping of each single nucleotide polymorphism was performed using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism and the TaqMan genotyping assay. All samples were collected with approval from the Institutional Review Board at Bundang CHA Medical Center. The ITGB3 rs3809865 A > T genotype was strongly associated with RPL prevalence (pregnancy loss [PL] ≥ 2: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.505, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.262–4.969, p = 0.009; PL ≥ 3: AOR = 3.255, 95% CI = 1.551–6.830, p = 0.002; PL ≥ 4: AOR = 3.613, 95% CI = 1.403–9.307, p = 0.008). The FGG rs1049636 T > C polymorphism was associated with a decreased risk in women who had three or more pregnancy losses (PL ≥ 3: AOR = 0.673, 95% CI = 0.460–0.987, p = 0.043; PL ≥ 4: AOR = 0.556, 95% CI = 0.310–0.997, p = 0.049). These findings indicate significant associations of the ITGB3 rs3809865 A > T and FGG rs1049636 T > C polymorphisms with RPL, suggesting that platelet function influences RPL in Korean women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research in Gynecological Diseases—2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 2212 KiB  
Review
Antiphospholipid Syndrome—Diagnostic and Methodologic Approach
by Agata Stańczewska, Karolina Szewczyk-Golec and Iga Hołyńska-Iwan
Metabolites 2025, 15(8), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15080500 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 511
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by venous and arterial thrombosis and obstetric complications, driven by antiphospholipid antibodies (APLAs). This review synthesizes the latest advancements and current understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of APS. APLAs, including lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin (aCL), and [...] Read more.
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by venous and arterial thrombosis and obstetric complications, driven by antiphospholipid antibodies (APLAs). This review synthesizes the latest advancements and current understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of APS. APLAs, including lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin (aCL), and anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2-GPI), interfere with coagulation and endothelial function, as well as with placental health. APS can be primary or secondary; it is often associated with systemic autoimmune diseases like lupus. The pathogenesis of APS remains only partially understood. APLAs promote thrombosis through endothelial damage, platelet activation, and inflammatory signaling pathways. Laboratory diagnosis relies on persistent positivity for APLAs and LAC through tests like ELISA and clotting assays, following a three-step confirmation process. New integrated test systems have been introduced to improve standardization. Classification criteria have evolved, with the 2023 EULAR-ACR criteria providing a weighted, domain-based scoring system, enhancing diagnostic precision. Catastrophic APS (CAPS) is a severe, rare manifestation of APS, characterized by multi-organ failure due to rapid, widespread microthrombosis and systemic inflammation, which requires urgent anticoagulation. Seronegative APS is proposed for patients with clinical features of APS but negative standard antibody tests, possibly due to non-criteria antibodies or transient immunosuppression. Treatment primarily involves long-term anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists; direct oral anticoagulants are generally not recommended. APS diagnosis and management remain complex due to clinical heterogeneity and laboratory challenges. Continued refinement of diagnostic tools and criteria is essential for improving outcomes in this life-threatening condition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Clinical Metabolic Research)
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4 pages, 461 KiB  
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Platelet Satellitism in a Patient with Underlying Infection, Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) and Multiple Sclerosis
by Athanasios Liaskas, Natali El-Gkotmi, Anestis Karapaschalidis, Dimitrios Tzanetakos and Serena Valsami
Diagnostics 2025, 15(11), 1319; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15111319 - 24 May 2025
Viewed by 497
Abstract
Platelet satellitism (PS) is an in vitro phenomenon of platelets adhering around white blood cells, especially in blood samples anticoagulated with K3EDTA. This, in some cases, can lead to spurious thrombocytopenia, without platelet dysfunction or bleeding events. Diagnosis is made by [...] Read more.
Platelet satellitism (PS) is an in vitro phenomenon of platelets adhering around white blood cells, especially in blood samples anticoagulated with K3EDTA. This, in some cases, can lead to spurious thrombocytopenia, without platelet dysfunction or bleeding events. Diagnosis is made by peripheral blood smear examination. The potential mechanism for PS remains largely unknown; however, it possibly involves the formation of IgG antibodies against the platelet glycoprotein receptor IIb/IIIa (GPIIb/IIIa). PS has been observed in various medical conditions, including infectious, autoimmune, and lymphoproliferative disorders, without an obvious causative relationship. Here, we describe a case of PS in a patient who presented with infection in the setting of underlying Immune Thombocytopenic Purpura and Multiple Sclerosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Laboratory Medicine)
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16 pages, 2287 KiB  
Article
Automated Quantitative Immunofluorescence Microscopy Approach for Diagnosis of Hereditary Thrombopathies: A Proof of Concept Using Bernard–Soulier Syndrome and Glanzmann Thrombasthenia
by Kevin Loos, Rawya Al-Rifai, Sandra Ohlenforst, Claudia Klein, Johannes Oldenburg, Anna Pavlova and Behnaz Pezeshkpoor
Genes 2025, 16(6), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16060621 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
Inherited platelet disorders (IPDs) are rare bleeding disorders characterized by impaired platelet function and/or reduced blood platelet count. Their diagnosis typically relies on complex laboratory methods, including flow cytometry, aggregometry, and molecular genetic analysis. In recent years, immunofluorescence microscopy has been established as [...] Read more.
Inherited platelet disorders (IPDs) are rare bleeding disorders characterized by impaired platelet function and/or reduced blood platelet count. Their diagnosis typically relies on complex laboratory methods, including flow cytometry, aggregometry, and molecular genetic analysis. In recent years, immunofluorescence microscopy has been established as an alternative diagnostic method for IPDs. Background/Objectives: This study aims to validate a quantitative approach enhancing reproducibility through automated image analysis for diagnosing IPDs using immunofluorescence microscopy, with Bernard–Soulier Syndrome (BSS) and Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) as model IPDs. Methods: Native blood smears from patients with suspected BSS or GT were stained using a standardized immunofluorescence protocol targeting platelet surface glycoproteins, granules, and cytoskeletal components. The slides were analyzed using an automated fluorescence microscope, and a rule-based subpopulation analysis was implemented to quantify fluorescence signals. The results were compared to those of a healthy control group, as well as data from flow cytometry and molecular genetic testing. Results: The automated analysis successfully differentiated BSS and GT patients from healthy controls based on distinct fluorescence signal patterns. In BSS samples, CD42b (GPIbα) expression was absent or severely reduced, while GT samples showed a deficiency of CD41/CD61 (GPIIb/IIIa). The platelet size distribution confirmed macrothrombocytopenia in BSS patients. Flow cytometry and molecular genetic testing corroborated these findings, supporting the diagnostic reliability of the automated immunofluorescence microscopy approach. Conclusions: This proof-of-principle study demonstrates that automated quantitative immunofluorescence microscopy is a viable alternative for diagnosing IPDs, offering a standardized, objective, and efficient method, particularly in settings where flow cytometry is not feasible. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases)
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28 pages, 1697 KiB  
Review
IL-6 as a Mediator of Platelet Hyper-Responsiveness
by Connor Elliot Webb, Jordan Vautrinot and Ingeborg Hers
Cells 2025, 14(11), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14110766 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 1400
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine with critical roles in immune regulation, inflammation, and haematopoiesis. While its functions in host defence and tissue repair are well established, accumulating evidence suggests that IL-6 also can directly and indirectly modulate megakaryocyte and platelet biology. This [...] Read more.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine with critical roles in immune regulation, inflammation, and haematopoiesis. While its functions in host defence and tissue repair are well established, accumulating evidence suggests that IL-6 also can directly and indirectly modulate megakaryocyte and platelet biology. This review examines the mechanistic basis supporting IL-6-mediated platelet hyper-responsiveness, in addition to its effect on megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis in thromboinflammatory disease states. We discuss how IL-6-mediated trans-signalling may sensitizes platelets to activation, and that this may be exclusive to glycoprotein VI (GPVI) stimulation due to Janus kinase (JAK)–signal transducer 2 crosstalk, in addition to other mechanisms that may contribute to priming platelets. We further highlight clinical evidence linking IL-6 to thrombotic complications in cardiovascular disease and infection (e.g., COVID-19 and sepsis). Given the emerging interest in IL-6-targeting therapies as anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic agents, a thorough understanding of how IL-6 can drive platelet responsiveness is crucial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Cellular Insights into Platelet Function)
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16 pages, 15521 KiB  
Article
Contrasting Effects of Platelet GPVI Deletion Versus Syk Inhibition on Mouse Jugular Vein Puncture Wound Structure
by Irina D. Pokrovskaya, Kelly K. Ball, Michael W. Webb, Smita Joshi, Sung W. Rhee, Jerry Ware and Brian Storrie
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4294; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094294 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 386
Abstract
Platelet glycoprotein (GP)VI is a transmembrane protein that was originally characterized as a collagen receptor supporting platelet adhesion and activation through its association with the Fc receptor γ-chain (FcRγ). The FcRγ subunit contains immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs) that recruit and activate Syk [...] Read more.
Platelet glycoprotein (GP)VI is a transmembrane protein that was originally characterized as a collagen receptor supporting platelet adhesion and activation through its association with the Fc receptor γ-chain (FcRγ). The FcRγ subunit contains immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs) that recruit and activate Syk (spleen tyrosine kinase), a key player in intracellular signaling pathways. The absence or dysfunction of GPVI produces a mild bleeding defect in humans like the impaired hemostasis reported in the murine knockout. Here, we took an ultrastructure approach to examine the impact of ligand binding to GPVI versus the downstream pharmacologic inhibition of the GPVI-dependent ITAM signaling pathway. Clots were generated for analysis following a puncture wound in the mouse external jugular vein. Images were obtained using mice genetically missing GPVI and mice pretreated with the Syk inhibitor, BI 1002494. Our study was designed to test the hypothesis that the predominant contribution of GPVI to hemostasis is mediated by a Syk-dependent signaling cascade. If true, the clot structure observed with a Syk inhibitor versus the GPVI knockout would be similar. If the extracellular domains of the protein had a Syk-independent platelet adhesion role, then significant comparative differences in the thrombus structure would be expected. Our results clearly indicate an important, Syk-independent role of the GPVI extracellular domain in the adherence of platelets within the intravascular crown of a growing venous clot, a site distant from exposed collagen-rich adventitia. In striking contrast, the adventitial proximal role of GPVI was Syk-dependent, with the GPVI knockout and Syk inhibitor giving the same, limited structural outcome of collagen-proximal platelet cytosol loss and a thinned extravascular cap. Consistent with the lesser role of Syk-dependent processes on the thrombus structure, the Syk inhibitor had no detectable effect on jugular puncture wound bleeding times, while the knockout had a statistically significant, but modest effect on bleeding time. Based on this contrast, we suggest that Syk inhibition may be the more selective approach to modulating the role of GPVI in occlusive clotting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein and Protein Interactions)
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10 pages, 582 KiB  
Article
Leucine-Rich Alpha-2 Glycoprotein 1 as a Biomarker for Evaluation of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity in Children
by Betül Aksoy, Yeliz Çağan Appak, Murat Akşit, Serenay Çetinoğlu, Sinem Kahveci, Şenay Onbaşı Karabağ, Selen Güler, İlksen Demir, İnanç Karakoyun and Maşallah Baran
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2803; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082803 - 18 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 505
Abstract
Background: Leucine rich α-2 glycoprotein (LRG) is a glycoprotein that is an acute-phase protein produced by neutrophils, macrophages, hepatocytes, and intestinal epithelial cells. This study aimed to determine the serum LRG (s-LRG) and urine LRG (u-LRG) expression levels in children with inflammatory bowel [...] Read more.
Background: Leucine rich α-2 glycoprotein (LRG) is a glycoprotein that is an acute-phase protein produced by neutrophils, macrophages, hepatocytes, and intestinal epithelial cells. This study aimed to determine the serum LRG (s-LRG) and urine LRG (u-LRG) expression levels in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and evaluated their correlation with clinical disease activity, other inflammatory markers, laboratory results, and endoscopic activity scoring. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary centre and included children aged 2–18 years with IBD. Clinic activity scoring was used to assess clinical disease activity. Haemoglobin levels, platelet counts, albumin, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were analysed in the blood sample. LRG levels were measured in both blood and urine samples. The endoscopic assessment was scored according to the simple endoscopic score and Mayo endoscopic score. Serum and urine LRG levels were measured using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Disease activation was defined based on clinical activity scoring, laboratory results, and endoscopic evaluation. The results were compared between the active IBD and remission groups. Results: Forty-two (50%) patients with active IBD and forty-two (50%) patients in remission were included in this study. The serum levels of LRG were elevated in the patients with active IBD compared with the levels in the patients with IBD in remission (p = 0.020). However, there was no difference in the u-LRG level between the two groups (p = 0.407). In patients with IBD, positive correlations were observed between s-LRG, platelet count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The serum LRG was negatively correlated with albumin and haemoglobin levels. Urine LRG was not correlated with s-LRG in any patients with IBD included or in patients with active IBD. The cutoff value for s- LRG (77.03 μg/mL) had a sensitivity and specificity of 40.4% (95% CI 25.6–56.7%) and 88.1% (95% CI 74.3–96.0%), respectively. It was found that s-LRG was a more significant parameter than CRP in predicting disease activation. Conclusions: This prospective study demonstrated that the s-LRG level is a useful biomarker for predicting disease activation in children with IBD and appears to be a more significant parameter than the CRP level. However, the u-LRG level is not effective in predicting disease activation in children with IBD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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12 pages, 3376 KiB  
Article
Role of Liver Kinase 1B in Platelet Activation and Host Defense During Klebsiella pneumoniae-Induced Pneumosepsis
by Osoul Chouchane, Valentine Léopold, Christine C. A. van Linge, Alex F. de Vos, Joris J. T. H. Roelofs, Cornelis van ‘t Veer and Tom van der Poll
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(8), 3714; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26083714 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 593
Abstract
Pneumonia is the most common cause of sepsis, with Klebsiella pneumoniae frequently implicated as a causative pathogen. Platelets play a crucial role in host defense during sepsis, and their activation is essential for effective immune responses, which is at least in part induced [...] Read more.
Pneumonia is the most common cause of sepsis, with Klebsiella pneumoniae frequently implicated as a causative pathogen. Platelets play a crucial role in host defense during sepsis, and their activation is essential for effective immune responses, which is at least in part induced through activation of the collagen receptor glycoprotein (GP)VI. Platelets require energy for their activation, and Liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is a key regulator of energy metabolism. We sought to determine the role of LKB1 in platelet function and host response during K. pneumoniae-induced pneumosepsis. Platelet-specific-Lkb1-deficient mice were generated and compared to control littermates. Platelet counts were unaffected by Lkb1 deficiency in naïve mice. However, Lkb1-deficient platelets exhibited significant hyperreactivity to GPVI stimulation, an effect not observed after stimulation of the thrombin receptor protease-activated receptor 4. During K. pneumoniae infection, platelets of both Lkb1-deficient and control mice became equally hyporesponsive to GPVI stimulation, without differences between genotypes. Platelet-specific Lkb1 deficiency did not alter bacterial outgrowth or dissemination, inflammatory responses, or lung pathology. These findings suggest that while Lkb1 plays a role in regulating platelet activation in response to GPVI stimulation, it does not significantly impact platelet activation or the host response during pneumonia-induced sepsis. Full article
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18 pages, 3599 KiB  
Article
FRET Visualization of High Mechanosensation of von Willebrand Factor to Hydrodynamic Force
by Mingxing Ouyang, Yao Gao, Binqian Zhou, Jia Guo, Lei Lei, Yingxiao Wang and Linhong Deng
Biosensors 2025, 15(4), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15040248 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 520
Abstract
von Willebrand factor (vWF) is a large glycoprotein in the circulation system, which senses hydrodynamic force at vascular injuries and then recruits platelets in assembling clots. How vWF mechanosenses shear flow for molecular unfolding is an important topic. Here, a Förster resonance energy [...] Read more.
von Willebrand factor (vWF) is a large glycoprotein in the circulation system, which senses hydrodynamic force at vascular injuries and then recruits platelets in assembling clots. How vWF mechanosenses shear flow for molecular unfolding is an important topic. Here, a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor was developed to monitor vWF conformation change to hydrodynamic force. The vWF-based biosensor is anchored on the cell surface, in which the A2 domain is flanked with a FRET pair. With 293T cells seeded into microfluidic channels, 2.8 dyn/cm2 of shear force (i.e., 28 μN/cm2, or 264.1/s in shear rate) induced a remarkable FRET change (~60%) in 30 min. A gradient micro-shear below 2.8 dyn/cm2 demonstrated FRET responses positively related to flow magnitudes, with 0.14 dyn/cm2 (1.4 μN/cm2) inducing an obvious change (~16%). The FRET increases indicate closer positioning of A2’s two terminals in vWF or the addition of a more parallel orientation of the FRET pair, supported with the high FRET of the A2-only-based biosensor, which probably resulted from flow-induced A2 dissociation from vWF intramolecular binding such as that in A1/A3 domains. Interestingly, gradient flow increases from 2.8 to 28 dyn/cm2 led to decreasing FRET changes, suggesting the second-level unfolding in the A2 domain. The LOCK-vWF biosensor with bridged A2 two terminals or an A2-only biosensor could not sense the shear, indicating a structure-flexible A2 and large vWF molecules that are important in the mechanosensation. In conclusion, the developed vWF-based biosensor demonstrated the high mechanosensation of vWF with two-level unfolding to shear force: the dissociation of the A2 domain from vWF intramolecular binding under a micro-shear, and then the unfolding of A2 in vWF under a higher shear; the FRET response to shear force at a very low scale may support the observed clot formation at microvascular wounds. This study provides new insights into the vWF’s mechanosensitive feature for its physiological functions and implicated disorders. Full article
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21 pages, 1511 KiB  
Review
Bone Modelling and Remodelling in Cold Environment
by Leyi Xue, Qiao Guan and Lingli Zhang
Biomolecules 2025, 15(4), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15040564 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1004
Abstract
People engaged in various activities in cold environments—such as those living in cold climates, polar workers, cold storage workers, and athletes engaged in winter sports—are frequently affected by cold environments. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the modelling and remodelling of [...] Read more.
People engaged in various activities in cold environments—such as those living in cold climates, polar workers, cold storage workers, and athletes engaged in winter sports—are frequently affected by cold environments. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the modelling and remodelling of bones in cold environments. Cold environments can shorten the length of bones, thin the thickness of bones, decrease bone mineral density (BMD), change the biomechanical properties of bones, and lead to bone loss. In addition, cold directly affects the bone microenvironment. Exposure to cold causes spindle-like and fibroblast-like changes in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and decreases their proliferation, and cold exposure promotes the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs partly through the p38 MAPK pathway. Cold also alters the dendritic differentiation of OBs by reducing the transmembrane glycoprotein E11/podoplanin and damages endothelial cells (ECs) by elevating levels of VEGF, resulting in a reduced blood supply and thus fewer OBs. In addition, cold promotes lipolysis of marrow adipose tissue (MAT), but in combination with exercise, it can promote the differentiation of BMSCs into MAT. Cold environments interfere with angiogenesis and inhibit bone growth by affecting factors such as platelet-derived growth factor type BB (PDGF-BB), slit guidance ligand 3 (SLIT3), Notch, and VEGF. In addition, cold environments may promote bone resorption by activating sympathetic nerves to activate β-adrenergic receptors and regulating leptin secretion, and regulate bone metabolism by activating the p38 MAPK signalling pathway and increasing the synthesis of brown fat, which ultimately inhibit bone formation and enhance bone resorption. In this paper, we describe the effects of cold environments on bones in the locomotor system in terms of bone structure, bone mass, biomechanical properties, and various skeletal cells, bone blood vessels, and bone fat systems in the bone microenvironment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biological Factors)
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14 pages, 1008 KiB  
Article
A Genetic Risk Score for Recurrent Miscarriages Based on Polymorphisms in Platelet Glycoproteins and Adhesion Molecules Genes
by Nikolaos Vlachadis, Chryssi Christodoulaki, Vassilios Tsamadias, Panagiotis Peitsidis, Nikolaos Machairiotis, Dimos Sioutis, Nikolaos F. Vlahos, Emmanuel Economou and Periklis Panagopoulos
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2355; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072355 - 29 Mar 2025
Viewed by 604
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The objective of the study was to explore the combined effect of polymorphisms in the platelet glycoproteins Ia (GpIa) and IIIa (GpIIIa), along with the platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) and P-Selectin genes, on the risk of recurrent pregnancy loss. Methods: This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The objective of the study was to explore the combined effect of polymorphisms in the platelet glycoproteins Ia (GpIa) and IIIa (GpIIIa), along with the platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) and P-Selectin genes, on the risk of recurrent pregnancy loss. Methods: This study involved 162 women with primary unexplained recurrent miscarriages and 60 fertile controls who had at least one uncomplicated full-term pregnancy without experiencing fetal loss. All participants were of Greek origin and were genotyped for four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), GpIa-C807T, GpIIIa-PlA1/PlA2, PECAM-1-C373G, and P-Selectin-A37674C, using pyrosequencing. A genetic risk score (GRS) was calculated in two forms: one based on the number of SNPs (dominant model) and the other based on the number of polymorphic alleles (additive model), utilizing logistic regression and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analyses. Results: A statistically significant increase in the risk of miscarriage was observed with the number of polymorphic genes, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.2 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5 to 3.2, p < 0.001) for each additional SNP. The ROC analysis revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.689 (95% CI: 0.614 to 0.763, p < 0.001). The presence of two or more polymorphic genes demonstrated a sensitivity of 69.8% and specificity of 65%, with an OR = 4.3 (95% CI: 2.3 to 8.0, p < 0.001). The performance of the GRS improved in younger patients and those experiencing late miscarriages. An AUC = 0.839 (95% CI: 0.749 to 0.930, p < 0.001) and an OR = 7.0 (95% CI: 2.8 to 17.8, p < 0.001) per SNP were achieved for the age group < 30 years. For subjects with second trimester fetal loss, the GRS yielded an AUC = 0.742 (95% CI: 0.610 to 0.874, p = 0.002) and an OR = 3.6 (95%OR = 7.0, 95% CI: 2.8 to 17.8) per SNP. The allelic GRS produced similar or slightly diminished results. Conclusions: This study highlights the promising potential of a genetic risk score based on four SNPs in predicting unexplained recurrent miscarriages, particularly in younger individuals and in cases of late miscarriage. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the epidemiology of unexplained recurrent miscarriage, emphasizing the role of platelet thrombophilia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Pregnancy-Related Complications: 2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 1146 KiB  
Article
Circulating Thrombospondin-1 and Endothelin-1 Levels Tend to Decline with Increasing Obesity Severity in Women: Evidence from a Pilot, Cross-Sectional Study
by Marta Greco, Maria Mirabelli, Luciana Sicilia, Francesco Dragone, Stefania Giuliano, Francesco S. Brunetti, Rosa Scalise, Eusebio Chiefari, Aikaterini Andreadi, Davide Lauro, Daniela P. Foti and Antonio Brunetti
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2143; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072143 - 21 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 750
Abstract
Background: Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) is a multimeric glycoprotein that is increasingly recognized as a mediator of metabolic, thrombotic, and inflammatory processes. Although TSP1 expression has been associated with adipose tissue dysfunction and insulin resistance, the precise relationship with obesity severity remains unclear. Endothelin-1 (ET1), [...] Read more.
Background: Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) is a multimeric glycoprotein that is increasingly recognized as a mediator of metabolic, thrombotic, and inflammatory processes. Although TSP1 expression has been associated with adipose tissue dysfunction and insulin resistance, the precise relationship with obesity severity remains unclear. Endothelin-1 (ET1), another important regulator of vascular homeostasis, may also contribute to obesity-related cardiometabolic risk, with evidence suggesting sex-specific differences, including delayed onset in women. The study aimed to investigate circulating TSP1 and ET1 levels in a cohort of nondiabetic obese female adults, evaluate their associations with metabolic and inflammatory parameters, and determine whether these markers differ according to obesity severity and related disease risk. Methods: Fifty-five nondiabetic women with obesity and no history of cardiovascular events were enrolled at the Endocrinology Unit (“R. Dulbecco” Univ. Hospital, Catanzaro, Italy). Anthropometric and clinical data, together with hematological and coagulation parameters and metabolic indices (HOMA-IR, HbA1c, and lipid profile), were evaluated. TSP1 and ET1 concentrations were measured using automated enzyme immunoassays (ELISAs). The participants were stratified by BMI (30–34.9 vs. ≥35 kg/m2) into low-risk and moderate/high-risk obesity based on the WHO classification, and correlations between biomarkers and metabolic/inflammatory parameters were evaluated. Results: The median BMI was 33.7 kg/m2, with 52% of participants having moderate/high-risk obesity (WHO Class II/III). A significant proportion (69.8%) showed insulin resistance (HOMA-IR > 2.5). TSP1 was positively correlated with white blood cell count (WBC, r = 0.354, p < 0.01), platelet count (PLT, r = 0.411, p < 0.01), and glycated hemoglobin (r = 0.391, p < 0.01), suggesting an association with both inflammation and glycemic control. ET1 was positively correlated with liver enzymes and triglycerides but negatively correlated with PLT and D-dimer. Women with moderate/high-risk obesity had significantly higher HOMA-IR, D-dimer, and inflammatory markers, in addition to a lower TSP1-to-PLT ratio. Conclusions: In this pilot study, TSP1 and ET1 levels tended to decrease with increasing obesity severity in women but were associated with distinct metabolic and inflammatory profiles. The results support the potential role of TSP1 as a biomarker for obesity-related cardiometabolic risk and highlight the complex interplay between TSP1, ET1, and obesity progression. Further studies may clarify whether targeting TSP1 can ameliorate chronic inflammation and insulin resistance in obesity and the potential sex-specific influences on these mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
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14 pages, 2275 KiB  
Article
The Ligand Binding Domain of the Cell Wall Protein SraP Modulates Macrophage Apoptosis and Inflammatory Responses in Staphylococcus aureus Infections
by He Sun, Robert W. Li, Thomas T. Y. Wang and Lin Ding
Molecules 2025, 30(5), 1168; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30051168 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 874
Abstract
The Staphylococcus aureus cell wall protein serine rich adhesin for platelets (SraP) belongs to a large surface glycoprotein family of adhesins. Here, we provide experimental evidence that SraP mediates macrophage functions in a human monocyte-derived macrophage model via its N-terminal L-lectin module (LLM) [...] Read more.
The Staphylococcus aureus cell wall protein serine rich adhesin for platelets (SraP) belongs to a large surface glycoprotein family of adhesins. Here, we provide experimental evidence that SraP mediates macrophage functions in a human monocyte-derived macrophage model via its N-terminal L-lectin module (LLM) in the ligand binding region. Our flow cytometry data demonstrated that macrophages infected by the LLM deletion strain profoundly impacted apoptosis, reducing the percentage of apoptotic cells by approximately 50%, whereas LLM overexpression significantly increased the percentage of early-stage apoptotic cells (p < 0.001). LLM deletion significantly enhanced phagocytosis by macrophages by increasing the number of engulfed bacteria, resulting in a significant increase in bacterial killing and leading to a notable decrease in bacterial survival within macrophages (p < 0.001). Furthermore, LLM modulated the ability of S. aureus to elicit inflammatory responses. The LLM deletion strain dampened the expression of proinflammatory factors but increased the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL10. Our evidence suggests that SraP likely plays a dual role in S. aureus pathogenesis, by acting as a virulence factor involved in bacterial adhesion and invasion and by mediating macrophage functions. Our future work will focus on the identification of small molecule inhibitors of LLM using molecular docking-based in silico screening and in vivo validation. Developing LLM inhibitors, alone or in combination with conventional antibiotics, may represent a novel strategy for combating S. aureus infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue NUCLEO-OMICS24)
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15 pages, 8637 KiB  
Article
SSL5-AnxA5 Fusion Protein Constructed Based on Human Atherosclerotic Plaque scRNA-Seq Data Preventing the Binding of Apoptotic Endothelial Cells, Platelets, and Inflammatory Cells
by Yifei Zhao, Xingyu He, Teng Hu, Tianli Xia, Fangyang Huang, Changming Li, Yiming Li, Fei Chen, Mao Chen, Jun Ma and Yong Peng
Biomedicines 2025, 13(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13010008 - 24 Dec 2024
Viewed by 987
Abstract
Background and aims: Coronary obstruction following plaque rupture is a critical pathophysiological change in the progression of stable angina (SAP) to acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The accumulation of platelets and various inflammatory cells on apoptotic endothelial cells is a key factor in arterial [...] Read more.
Background and aims: Coronary obstruction following plaque rupture is a critical pathophysiological change in the progression of stable angina (SAP) to acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The accumulation of platelets and various inflammatory cells on apoptotic endothelial cells is a key factor in arterial obstruction after plaque rupture. Through single-cell sequencing analysis (scRNA-seq) of plaques from SAP and ACS patients, we identified significant changes in the annexin V and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 pathways. Staphylococcal superantigen-like 5 (SSL5) is an optimal antagonist P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL1), while annexin V (AnxA5) can precisely detect dead cells in vivo. We constructed the SSL5-AnxA5 fusion protein and observed its role in preventing the interaction between apoptotic endothelial cells, platelets, and inflammatory cells. Methods: The scRNA-seq data were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Single-cell transcriptome analysis results and cell–cell communication were analyzed to identify the ACS and SAP cell clusters and elucidate the intercellular communication differences. Then, we constructed and verified a fusion protein comprising SSL5 and AnxA5 domains via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot. The binding capacity of the fusion protein to P-selectin and apoptotic cells was evaluated by flow cytometry and AnxA5-FITC apoptosis detection kit, respectively. Furthermore, co-incubation and immunofluorescence allowed us to describe the mediation effect of it between inflammatory cells and endothelial cells or activated platelets. Results: Our analysis of the scRNA-seq data showed that SELPLG (PSGL1 gene) and ANNEXIN had higher information flowing in ACS compared to SAP. The SELPLG signaling pathway network demonstrated a higher number of interactions in ACS, while the ANNEXIN signaling pathway network revealed stronger signaling from macrophages toward monocytes in ACS compared to SAP. Competition binding experiments with P-selectin showed that SSL5-AnxA5 induced a decrease in the affinity of PSGL1. SSL5-AnxA5 effectively inhibited the combination of endothelial cells with inflammatory cells and the interaction of activated platelets with inflammatory cells. Additionally, this fusion protein exhibited remarkable capability in binding to apoptotic cells. Conclusions: The bifunctional protein SSL5-AnxA5 exhibits promising potential as a protective agent against local inflammation in arterial tissues, making it an excellent candidate for PSGL1-related therapeutic interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Angiogenesis and Related Disorders)
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16 pages, 763 KiB  
Article
Description and Modeling of Relevant Demographic and Laboratory Variables in a Large Oncology Cohort to Generate Virtual Populations
by Laura Pérez-Ramos, Laura Ibarra-Gómez, Rubin Lubomirov, María García-Cremades, Eduardo Asín-Prieto, Salvador Fudio and Pablo Zubiaur
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(12), 1548; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16121548 - 3 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1081
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pathophysiological variability in patients with cancer is associated with differences in responses to pharmacotherapy. In this work, we aimed to describe the demographic characteristics and hematological, biochemical, and coagulation variables in a large oncology cohort and to develop, optimize, and provide [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pathophysiological variability in patients with cancer is associated with differences in responses to pharmacotherapy. In this work, we aimed to describe the demographic characteristics and hematological, biochemical, and coagulation variables in a large oncology cohort and to develop, optimize, and provide open access to modeling equations for the estimation of variables potentially relevant in pharmacokinetic modeling. Methods: Using data from 1793 patients with cancer, divided into training (n = 1259) and validation (n = 534) datasets, a modeling network was developed and used to simulate virtual oncology populations. All analyses were conducted in RStudio 4.3.2 Build 494. Results: The simulation network based on sex, age, biogeographic origin/ethnicity, and tumor type (fixed or primary factors) was successfully validated, able to predict age, height, weight, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, albumin, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein and lactate dehydrogenase serum levels, platelet–lymphocyte and neutrophil–lymphocyte ratios, and hematocrit. This network was then successfully extrapolated to simulate the laboratory variables of eight oncology populations (n = 1200); only East Asians, Sub-Saharan Africans, Europeans, only males, females, patients with an ECOG performance status equal to 2, and only patients with pancreas cancer or ovarian cancer. Conclusions: this network constitutes a valuable tool to predict relevant characteristics/variables of patients with cancer, which may be useful in the evaluation and prediction of pharmacokinetics in virtual oncology populations, as well as for model-based optimization of oncology treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Pharmacokinetics in Drug Development and Evaluation)
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