UA-2012 (and related non-myristoylated analog UA-1907) is a lead alpha-helical cyclic peptide which inhibits the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-paxillin protein-protein interaction (PPI) and is being evaluated for the treatment of cutaneous melanoma. However, the development of an empirical approach to measure PPI inhibitor selectivity remains an important need. We report the development of a pulldown-MS proteomic approach, including a custom synthesized non-myristoylated UA-1907-agarose probe, to evaluate the binding selectivity of candidate FAK PPI inhibitors. Melanoma lysates were probed with UA-1907-conjugated agarose beads and eluted associated proteins were analyzed through untagged mass-spectroscopy proteomics. The identified proteins led to the development of a custom focal adhesion (FA) selectivity panel comprised of recombinant VinT, VinH, PARVA, PARVB, Talin-1 Rod 8, and the FAK FAT domain. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) screening of these FA proteins against UA-1907 determined that only the FAK-FAT domain has a nanomolar binding affinity (KD) for UA-1907, whereas other FA proteins have no binding. Overall, we report the development of a customized pulldown-MS approach to characterize PPI drug selectivity that has utility in the FAK drug discovery field.
UA-2012(以及相关的非肉豆荚酰化类似物UA-1907)是一种α -螺旋环肽,可抑制局点粘附激酶(FAK)-paxillin蛋白-蛋白相互作用(PPI),目前正在评估用于治疗皮肤黑色素瘤。然而,开发一种经验方法来测量PPI抑制剂的选择性仍然是一个重要的需求。我们报告了一种下拉- ms蛋白质组学方法的发展,包括一种定制合成的非豆蔻酰基化ua -1907琼脂糖探针,以评估候选FAK PPI抑制剂的结合选择性。用ua -1907偶联琼脂糖珠探测黑色素瘤裂解物,通过无标记质谱蛋白质组学分析洗脱的相关蛋白。鉴定出的蛋白导致了由重组VinT、VinH、PARVA、PARVB、Talin-1 Rod 8和FAK FAT结构域组成的定制焦点粘附(FA)选择性面板的开发。表面等离子体共振(SPR)筛选这些FA蛋白对抗UA-1907的结果表明,只有FAK-FAT结构域对UA-1907具有纳米摩尔结合亲和力(KD),而其他FA蛋白则没有结合。总体而言,我们报告了一种定制的下拉-质谱方法的发展,以表征PPI药物选择性,该方法在FAK药物发现领域具有实用性。
{"title":"Establishing selectivity of FAK-paxillin PPI inhibitor using pulldown proteomics and a focal adhesion protein selectivity panel","authors":"Hunter O'Brien , Brock Hay , Huzaifah Sheikh , Liam McCreary , Krishna Parsawar , Timothy Marlowe","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102410","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102410","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>UA-2012 (and related non-myristoylated analog UA-1907) is a lead alpha-helical cyclic peptide which inhibits the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-paxillin protein-protein interaction (PPI) and is being evaluated for the treatment of cutaneous melanoma. However, the development of an empirical approach to measure PPI inhibitor selectivity remains an important need. We report the development of a pulldown-MS proteomic approach, including a custom synthesized non-myristoylated UA-1907-agarose probe, to evaluate the binding selectivity of candidate FAK PPI inhibitors. Melanoma lysates were probed with UA-1907-conjugated agarose beads and eluted associated proteins were analyzed through untagged mass-spectroscopy proteomics. The identified proteins led to the development of a custom focal adhesion (FA) selectivity panel comprised of recombinant VinT, VinH, PARVA, PARVB, Talin-1 Rod 8, and the FAK FAT domain. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) screening of these FA proteins against UA-1907 determined that only the FAK-FAT domain has a nanomolar binding affinity (K<sub>D</sub>) for UA-1907, whereas other FA proteins have no binding. Overall, we report the development of a customized pulldown-MS approach to characterize PPI drug selectivity that has utility in the FAK drug discovery field.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102410"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145797521","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-12DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102411
Aynaz Khalafi, Fatemeh Safari
The second most prevalent cause of mortality worldwide is cancer. Pancreatic cancer, known as the “king of cancers” due to its unfavorable prognosis and absence of symptoms, is among the fatal types of cancer. Despite the availability of various cancer therapy options, current strategies are often ineffective. Therefore, there is a constant need to explore novel platforms with low side effects and high efficacy. The application of stem cells or their derivatives in treating diseases including cancer, has become well-established. This study, focuses on investigating the effects of the secretome of human mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) on Panc1 pancreatic cancer cells through the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Caspase 3 signaling pathways. A co-culture system using 6-well plates transwell was utilized for this purpose. After 72 h, cell death in hAMSCs-treated Panc1 cells was analyzed through the TNF-α/NF-κB (p50/p65)/Caspase 3 signaling pathways using Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). DAPI staining was used to visualize cell death in hAMSCs-treated Panc1 cells. The results showed an up-regulation of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, p-IKK, p-IKKα, p-IKKβ, p-IκB, p53, PUMA, Caspase 3, and NF-κB (p50/p65) as well as a down-regulation of IKβ. These findings suggest that the secretome of hAMSCs promotes both inflammation and apoptosis in Panc1 pancreatic cancer cells simultaneously.
{"title":"Exploring the impact of hAMSCs secretome on Panc1 cells via TNF-α/NF-κB (p50/p65)/Caspase 3 signaling pathways: An in vitro study","authors":"Aynaz Khalafi, Fatemeh Safari","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102411","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102411","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The second most prevalent cause of mortality worldwide is cancer. Pancreatic cancer, known as the “king of cancers” due to its unfavorable prognosis and absence of symptoms, is among the fatal types of cancer. Despite the availability of various cancer therapy options, current strategies are often ineffective. Therefore, there is a constant need to explore novel platforms with low side effects and high efficacy. The application of stem cells or their derivatives in treating diseases including cancer, has become well-established. This study, focuses on investigating the effects of the secretome of human mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) on Panc1 pancreatic cancer cells through the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Caspase 3 signaling pathways. A co-culture system using 6-well plates transwell was utilized for this purpose. After 72 h, cell death in hAMSCs-treated Panc1 cells was analyzed through the TNF-α/NF-κB (p50/p65)<strong>/</strong>Caspase 3 signaling pathways using Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). DAPI staining was used to visualize cell death in hAMSCs-treated Panc1 cells. The results showed an up-regulation of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, p-IKK, p-IKKα, p-IKKβ, p-IκB, p53, PUMA, Caspase 3, and NF-κB (p50/p65) as well as a down-regulation of IKβ. These findings suggest that the secretome of hAMSCs promotes both inflammation and apoptosis in Panc1 pancreatic cancer cells simultaneously.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102411"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145747998","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-11DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102405
Mohammad Jahanpanah, Abtin Ghasempour, Diana Mokhtari, Shirin Eshghi, Mahsa Mousakhan Bakhtiari, Mohammad Taha Salmanifard Ardestani, Leila Jafari, Maryam Behfar, Amir Ali Hamidieh
The exact etiology of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is not yet fully understood. Inherited genetic abnormalities and exposure to environmental risk factors are implicated in pathogenesis of ALL patients. Over the past two decades, epigenetic factors like microRNAs (miRs) have been in the spotlight and shown to have a pivotal role in the pathogenicity of ALL. MiRs are a group of small non-coding single-stranded RNAs (∼22 nucleotides) involved in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. MiR-181a has been shown to have a dual behavior in different types of cancers. This dual behavior of miR-181a shows that it should be investigated in a disease-specific manner. In this study, 24 studies were reviewed in different sections including the expression pattern of miR-181a, its target genes, and its potential as a biomarker in ALL from January 2000 to March 2025. Results of the reviewed studies conclusively indicate that miR-181a-5p is upregulated in pediatric ALL patients compared to normal control groups, and miR-181a-5p acts as an oncomir in pediatric ALL patients. Nevertheless, there are only a few studies in adults with inconclusive results. Furthermore, miR-181a-5p might be the upstream activator of the leukemic T-cell proliferation by having direct and indirect effects on several genes. Recent studies indicate that this miR can be implemented in diagnosing and classifying central nervous system (CNS) involvement in ALL patients, which is a devastating challenge in the field of hematology-oncology.
{"title":"MicroRNA-181a in acute lymphoblastic leukemia: expression pattern, target genes and its potential as a biomarker","authors":"Mohammad Jahanpanah, Abtin Ghasempour, Diana Mokhtari, Shirin Eshghi, Mahsa Mousakhan Bakhtiari, Mohammad Taha Salmanifard Ardestani, Leila Jafari, Maryam Behfar, Amir Ali Hamidieh","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102405","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102405","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The exact etiology of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is not yet fully understood. Inherited genetic abnormalities and exposure to environmental risk factors are implicated in pathogenesis of ALL patients. Over the past two decades, epigenetic factors like microRNAs (miRs) have been in the spotlight and shown to have a pivotal role in the pathogenicity of ALL. MiRs are a group of small non-coding single-stranded RNAs (∼22 nucleotides) involved in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. MiR-181a has been shown to have a dual behavior in different types of cancers. This dual behavior of miR-181a shows that it should be investigated in a disease-specific manner. In this study, 24 studies were reviewed in different sections including the expression pattern of miR-181a, its target genes, and its potential as a biomarker in ALL from January 2000 to March 2025. Results of the reviewed studies conclusively indicate that miR-181a-5p is upregulated in pediatric ALL patients compared to normal control groups, and miR-181a-5p acts as an oncomir in pediatric ALL patients. Nevertheless, there are only a few studies in adults with inconclusive results. Furthermore, miR-181a-5p might be the upstream activator of the leukemic T-cell proliferation by having direct and indirect effects on several genes. Recent studies indicate that this miR can be implemented in diagnosing and classifying central nervous system (CNS) involvement in ALL patients, which is a devastating challenge in the field of hematology-oncology.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102405"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145748907","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The Yes-associated protein (YAP) family of transcriptional coactivators has emerged as a potent promoter of cell proliferation in many types of stem/progenitor cells and cancers. Skin is a squamous epithelium that is continuously regenerated by stem/progenitor cells in the basal layer and is capable of wound healing, and YAP also plays an important role in maintaining skin homeostasis and cellular proliferation. Therefore, we focused on YAP and investigated the importance of YAP regulation in allergic contact dermatitis from the perspective of wound healing and regeneration.
Methods
We investigated the expression and pathological characteristics of Transmembrane protein 207 (TMEM207), focusing on YAP-mediated regulation in atopic models, as abnormal TMEM207 expression may cause various functional abnormalities or regulate the function of YAP.
Results
TMEM207 was detected not only in the stomach and large intestine but also in the bulge region of the sebaceous glands and hair roots in mice expressing TMEM207. In addition, ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1) expression decreased in the sebaceous glands, and MIB E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase 1 (MIB-1) expression diminished in the epidermis. Furthermore, although we were unable to confirm the binding of TMEM207 to NEDD4, we confirmed the binding of TMEM207 to the Yes1-associated transcription factor (YAP) by immunoprecipitation, and a decrease in the nuclear localization of YAP was observed by immunohistochemical staining.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that abnormal expression of TMEM207 is involved in the decline of skin regeneration capacity through YAP, leading to the aggravation of Allergic contact dermatitis.
yes相关蛋白(YAP)转录共激活因子家族已成为许多类型的干细胞/祖细胞和癌症中细胞增殖的有效促进子。皮肤是一种鳞状上皮,由基底层的干细胞/祖细胞不断再生,具有伤口愈合的能力,YAP在维持皮肤稳态和细胞增殖方面也起着重要作用。因此,我们以YAP为研究对象,从伤口愈合和再生的角度探讨YAP调控在变应性接触性皮炎中的重要性。方法研究跨膜蛋白207 (Transmembrane protein 207, TMEM207)的表达及病理特征,重点研究YAP在特应性模型中的调控作用,因为TMEM207的异常表达可能导致各种功能异常或调控YAP的功能。结果表达TMEM207的小鼠不仅在胃和大肠中检测到stmem207,而且在皮脂腺凸起区和毛根中也检测到stmem207。此外,ATP结合盒B亚家族成员1 (ABCB1)在皮脂腺中的表达降低,MIB E3泛素蛋白连接酶1 (MIB-1)在表皮中的表达降低。此外,虽然我们无法证实TMEM207与NEDD4的结合,但我们通过免疫沉淀证实了TMEM207与yes1相关转录因子(YAP)的结合,并且通过免疫组织化学染色观察到YAP的核定位减少。结论TMEM207的异常表达通过YAP参与皮肤再生能力下降,导致变应性接触性皮炎加重。
{"title":"TMEM207-mediated the impairment of skin regeneration through YAP sequestration in an allergic contact dermatitis model","authors":"Shusuke Nomura, Yusuke Kito, Chiemi Saigo, Tamotsu Takeuchi","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102409","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102409","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>The Yes-associated protein (YAP) family of transcriptional coactivators has emerged as a potent promoter of cell proliferation in many types of stem/progenitor cells and cancers. Skin is a squamous epithelium that is continuously regenerated by stem/progenitor cells in the basal layer and is capable of wound healing, and YAP also plays an important role in maintaining skin homeostasis and cellular proliferation. Therefore, we focused on YAP and investigated the importance of YAP regulation in allergic contact dermatitis from the perspective of wound healing and regeneration.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We investigated the expression and pathological characteristics of Transmembrane protein 207 (TMEM207), focusing on YAP-mediated regulation in atopic models, as abnormal TMEM207 expression may cause various functional abnormalities or regulate the function of YAP.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>TMEM207 was detected not only in the stomach and large intestine but also in the bulge region of the sebaceous glands and hair roots in mice expressing TMEM207. In addition, ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1) expression decreased in the sebaceous glands, and MIB E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase 1 (MIB-1) expression diminished in the epidermis. Furthermore, although we were unable to confirm the binding of TMEM207 to NEDD4, we confirmed the binding of TMEM207 to the Yes1-associated transcription factor (YAP) by immunoprecipitation, and a decrease in the nuclear localization of YAP was observed by immunohistochemical staining.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Our findings indicate that abnormal expression of TMEM207 is involved in the decline of skin regeneration capacity through YAP, leading to the aggravation of Allergic contact dermatitis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102409"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145747950","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is one of the most promising vectors for gene therapy. It consists of a protein capsid that encapsulates the genetic material. However, during the production process, except for the full particles containing the genome, a variety of types of particles are also produced concomitantly, such as empty particles (no DNA encapsulated in the capsid), viral fragments, damaged viruses, and viral aggregates. Empty particles have been reported to induce unnecessary immune response and reduce transduction efficiency. Therefore, a quantitative method that objectively assesses the content of rAAV particles containing the genome is crucial for quality measurement. In this study, we developed a technique to detect the proportion of empty capsids in rAAV samples by using cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). This method not only accurately quantifies the percentage of empty capsids, but also allows for the characterization and analysis of other different particle types within the sample. Our comprehensive evaluation of specificity, precision, accuracy, linearity, and limit of quantitation (LOQ) demonstrates the advantages of cryo-TEM technology for the quantitative analysis of rAAV empty capsid ratio. Moreover, this research offers a thorough, multidimensional approach to enhance the understanding and implementation of quality control for rAAV.
{"title":"Methodological validation of a cryo-TEM-based detection method for empty capsid ratio in recombinant adeno-associated virus","authors":"Lingyi Xu , Jinhuan Chen , Wei Zhu , Yaokun Zhao , Fangfang Zheng , Rong Du , Yuwei Jiang , Yidan Yang , Yuanyuan Chen , Yuanshu Dong , Zhengxi Zhang , Yong Tong","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102397","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102397","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is one of the most promising vectors for gene therapy. It consists of a protein capsid that encapsulates the genetic material. However, during the production process, except for the full particles containing the genome, a variety of types of particles are also produced concomitantly, such as empty particles (no DNA encapsulated in the capsid), viral fragments, damaged viruses, and viral aggregates. Empty particles have been reported to induce unnecessary immune response and reduce transduction efficiency. Therefore, a quantitative method that objectively assesses the content of rAAV particles containing the genome is crucial for quality measurement. In this study, we developed a technique to detect the proportion of empty capsids in rAAV samples by using cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). This method not only accurately quantifies the percentage of empty capsids, but also allows for the characterization and analysis of other different particle types within the sample. Our comprehensive evaluation of specificity, precision, accuracy, linearity, and limit of quantitation (LOQ) demonstrates the advantages of cryo-TEM technology for the quantitative analysis of rAAV empty capsid ratio. Moreover, this research offers a thorough, multidimensional approach to enhance the understanding and implementation of quality control for rAAV.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102397"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145747999","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-09DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102396
Jiakai Li , Ping Fei , Xiang Zhang , Yuqing Rao , Jing Li , Peiquan Zhao
Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) are two prominent retinal diseases. The role of macrophages/microglia in the vascular dynamics of FEVR and DR is unknown and thus addressed in this study. FZD4 knockout mouse, a model for FEVR in human characterized by genetic mutations affecting angiogenesis, exhibited reduced b-wave amplitudes and decreased vascular density, replicating human FEVR symptoms. Conversely, STZ-treated C57/BL6 mouse developed heightened fasting glucose levels, reduced insulin content, and increased retinal vasculature, aligning with DR features. Further analysis revealed significant differences in macrophage/microglia populations between the two diseases. In DR, a marked increase in both number and M2-like polarization of retinal macrophages/microglia was observed, contrasting with FEVR. Moreover, DR induced substantial proinflammatory differentiation of macrophages/microglia, evidenced by elevated cytokines such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IFNɣ. Both conditions significantly upregulated Ang-1 and IL-10, with a more pronounced IL-10 increase in DR, suggesting a more active role in tissue and vessel remodeling. Notably, DR induced higher levels of anti-inflammatory factors like bFGF, TIMP-1, TGFβ1, and VEGF-A compared to FEVR, suggesting a balance of inflammation initiation, progression and resolution. These findings highlight the distinct roles of macrophages/microglia in FEVR and DR, providing insights into their contributions to disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies through reprogramming macrophages/microglia.
{"title":"Comparative analysis of activation of macrophages/microglia in diabetic retinopathy and Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy","authors":"Jiakai Li , Ping Fei , Xiang Zhang , Yuqing Rao , Jing Li , Peiquan Zhao","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102396","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102396","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) are two prominent retinal diseases. The role of macrophages/microglia in the vascular dynamics of FEVR and DR is unknown and thus addressed in this study. FZD4 knockout mouse, a model for FEVR in human characterized by genetic mutations affecting angiogenesis, exhibited reduced b-wave amplitudes and decreased vascular density, replicating human FEVR symptoms. Conversely, STZ-treated C57/BL6 mouse developed heightened fasting glucose levels, reduced insulin content, and increased retinal vasculature, aligning with DR features. Further analysis revealed significant differences in macrophage/microglia populations between the two diseases. In DR, a marked increase in both number and M2-like polarization of retinal macrophages/microglia was observed, contrasting with FEVR. Moreover, DR induced substantial proinflammatory differentiation of macrophages/microglia, evidenced by elevated cytokines such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IFNɣ. Both conditions significantly upregulated Ang-1 and IL-10, with a more pronounced IL-10 increase in DR, suggesting a more active role in tissue and vessel remodeling. Notably, DR induced higher levels of anti-inflammatory factors like bFGF, TIMP-1, TGFβ1, and VEGF-A compared to FEVR, suggesting a balance of inflammation initiation, progression and resolution. These findings highlight the distinct roles of macrophages/microglia in FEVR and DR, providing insights into their contributions to disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies through reprogramming macrophages/microglia.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102396"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145747997","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-09DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102403
Jayanta Das , Bhupen Barman , Phulen Sarma , Bipul Kumar Das , Rajiv Chetia , Partha Pratim Kalita
HCC is one of the deadliest malignancies with a rising global occurrence and poor prognosis. Metastasis and invasion are essential processes in the HCC progression, and have a profound bearing on clinical outcome. This review explores the key signalling pathways involved in HCC metastasis and invasion, focusing on their molecular mechanisms, crosstalk, and therapeutic implications. Alongside the discussion of the Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, HGF/c-MET, Notch and Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathways, are known to contribute to promoting aggressive HCC behaviour. Stromal interactions, extracellular matrix remodelling, hypoxia and angiogenesis as well as the tumour microenvironment are also highlighted. These pathways are subject to current therapeutic treatments in the form of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, and research prospective of the Wnt/β-catenin blocker, TGF-β inhibitors, etc. The variations in tumours and resistance patterns to treatment and their existing problems in treating HCC are addressed. The review evaluates new therapeutic targets offering a foundation for further research and clinical advancements in this challenging field.
{"title":"Signalling pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis and invasion: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications","authors":"Jayanta Das , Bhupen Barman , Phulen Sarma , Bipul Kumar Das , Rajiv Chetia , Partha Pratim Kalita","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102403","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102403","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>HCC is one of the deadliest malignancies with a rising global occurrence and poor prognosis. Metastasis and invasion are essential processes in the HCC progression, and have a profound bearing on clinical outcome. This review explores the key signalling pathways involved in HCC metastasis and invasion, focusing on their molecular mechanisms, crosstalk, and therapeutic implications. Alongside the discussion of the Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, HGF/c-MET, Notch and Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathways, are known to contribute to promoting aggressive HCC behaviour. Stromal interactions, extracellular matrix remodelling, hypoxia and angiogenesis as well as the tumour microenvironment are also highlighted. These pathways are subject to current therapeutic treatments in the form of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, and research prospective of the Wnt/β-catenin blocker, TGF-β inhibitors, etc. The variations in tumours and resistance patterns to treatment and their existing problems in treating HCC are addressed. The review evaluates new therapeutic targets offering a foundation for further research and clinical advancements in this challenging field.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102403"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145748906","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-09DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102398
Pan Zhu , Xinyi Sun , Yuting Fang , Yufei Li , Liang Guo
Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene trioxane derived from the plant Artemisia annua, possesses a distinctive peroxide bridge structure that endows it with remarkable biological activity, primarily through its interaction with heme. Given artemisinin's well-established clinical safety profile, researchers are increasingly investigating its potential applications in antifungal, anticancer, and antiviral treatments. This review employs heme as a foundational element to dissect the mechanisms underlying the diverse pharmacological actions of artemisinin, thereby expanding its application prospects. It also offers valuable insights for the development of novel pharmaceuticals and innovative therapeutic strategies targeting various human diseases.
{"title":"Heme as activator and target for artemisinin: Towards multiple pharmacological bioactivity","authors":"Pan Zhu , Xinyi Sun , Yuting Fang , Yufei Li , Liang Guo","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102398","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102398","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene trioxane derived from the plant <em>Artemisia annua</em>, possesses a distinctive peroxide bridge structure that endows it with remarkable biological activity, primarily through its interaction with heme. Given artemisinin's well-established clinical safety profile, researchers are increasingly investigating its potential applications in antifungal, anticancer, and antiviral treatments. This review employs heme as a foundational element to dissect the mechanisms underlying the diverse pharmacological actions of artemisinin, thereby expanding its application prospects. It also offers valuable insights for the development of novel pharmaceuticals and innovative therapeutic strategies targeting various human diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102398"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145748905","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-08DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102401
Rena Ubukata, Hiroyuki Suzuki, Mika K. Kaneko, Yukinari Kato
Cadherin (CDH)-mediated extracellular homophilic binding is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis. The epithelial cell-cell adhesion molecule cadherin 1 (CDH1/E‐cadherin) forms the adherens junctions in epithelial cells, and the loss of CDH1 facilitates the migration and invasion of carcinoma cells. Although several anti-CDH1 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are available for western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC), a highly sensitive anti-CDH1 mAb suitable for flow cytometry has not been developed. We developed anti-CDH1 mAbs through a flow cytometry-based high-throughput screening. Two anti-CDH1 mAb clones, Ca1Mab-3 (IgG1, κ) and Ca1Mab-5 (IgG1, κ), reacted with human CDH1-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary-K1 (CHO/CDH1) cells in flow cytometry. Furthermore, Ca1Mab-3 and Ca1Mab-5 recognized endogenous CDH1-expressing human luminal-type breast cancer cells, such as MCF-7, but not triple-negative breast cancer cells, like MDA-MB-231. The dissociation constant values of Ca1Mab-3 and Ca1Mab-5 for CHO/CDH1 were determined as 5.9 × 10−10 M and 1.8 × 10−9 M, respectively. Ca1Mab-3 and Ca1Mab-5 can detect endogenous CDH1 in western blotting and IHC using a cell block. Furthermore, Ca1Mab-5 is available for IHC in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues. These results indicate that Ca1Mab-3 and Ca1Mab-5 are versatile for basic research and are expected to contribute to clinical applications, such as tumor diagnosis and therapy.
{"title":"Development of novel anti-CDH1/E-cadherin monoclonal antibodies for versatile applications","authors":"Rena Ubukata, Hiroyuki Suzuki, Mika K. Kaneko, Yukinari Kato","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102401","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102401","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cadherin (CDH)-mediated extracellular homophilic binding is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis. The epithelial cell-cell adhesion molecule cadherin 1 (CDH1/E‐cadherin) forms the adherens junctions in epithelial cells, and the loss of CDH1 facilitates the migration and invasion of carcinoma cells. Although several anti-CDH1 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are available for western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC), a highly sensitive anti-CDH1 mAb suitable for flow cytometry has not been developed. We developed anti-CDH1 mAbs through a flow cytometry-based high-throughput screening. Two anti-CDH1 mAb clones, Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-3 (IgG<sub>1</sub>, κ) and Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-5 (IgG<sub>1</sub>, κ), reacted with human CDH1-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary-K1 (CHO/CDH1) cells in flow cytometry. Furthermore, Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-3 and Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-5 recognized endogenous CDH1-expressing human luminal-type breast cancer cells, such as MCF-7, but not triple-negative breast cancer cells, like MDA-MB-231. The dissociation constant values of Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-3 and Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-5 for CHO/CDH1 were determined as 5.9 × 10<sup>−10</sup> M and 1.8 × 10<sup>−9</sup> M, respectively. Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-3 and Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-5 can detect endogenous CDH1 in western blotting and IHC using a cell block. Furthermore, Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-5 is available for IHC in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues. These results indicate that Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-3 and Ca<sub>1</sub>Mab-5 are versatile for basic research and are expected to contribute to clinical applications, such as tumor diagnosis and therapy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102401"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145748903","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-08DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102402
Mahsa Mohammadian , Shima Asfia , Ralf Seemann
Lipid droplets (LDs) maintain cellular lipid homeostasis through dynamic interactions with other organelles. Understanding how these contact sites form is crucial for uncovering the mechanisms of lipid exchange and signaling. In this study, we used an in vitro model to investigate how lipid composition and the LD-associated protein perilipin 5 (PLIN5) influence contact formation between an LD monolayer and a bilayer membrane. Artificial LDs consisting of triolein and coated with either a DOPE or DOPC monolayer containing PLIN5 or not were incubated with large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) that mimic the bilayer membrane of the organelle. Using double fluorescence labeling of the LUV bilayer and the core, we can distinguish between fusion of the LUV bilayer with the LDs and stable attachment of LUVs to the LD’s surface. Our results show that the probability of fusion between LDs and LUVs is greatly increased for DOPE-coated LDs, while PLIN5 promotes the stable attachment of LUVs to the LD’s surface and prevents fusion. These observations illustrate how certain lipid and protein components can modulate contact formation between LDs and membranes in a controlled in vitro system, and provide a basis for future studies on the molecular mechanisms of organelle communication.
{"title":"Influence of PLIN5 and lipid composition on lipid droplet contact sites with other organelles","authors":"Mahsa Mohammadian , Shima Asfia , Ralf Seemann","doi":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102402","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.bbrep.2025.102402","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lipid droplets (LDs) maintain cellular lipid homeostasis through dynamic interactions with other organelles. Understanding how these contact sites form is crucial for uncovering the mechanisms of lipid exchange and signaling. In this study, we used an in vitro model to investigate how lipid composition and the LD-associated protein perilipin 5 (PLIN5) influence contact formation between an LD monolayer and a bilayer membrane. Artificial LDs consisting of triolein and coated with either a DOPE or DOPC monolayer containing PLIN5 or not were incubated with large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) that mimic the bilayer membrane of the organelle. Using double fluorescence labeling of the LUV bilayer and the core, we can distinguish between fusion of the LUV bilayer with the LDs and stable attachment of LUVs to the LD’s surface. Our results show that the probability of fusion between LDs and LUVs is greatly increased for DOPE-coated LDs, while PLIN5 promotes the stable attachment of LUVs to the LD’s surface and prevents fusion. These observations illustrate how certain lipid and protein components can modulate contact formation between LDs and membranes in a controlled in vitro system, and provide a basis for future studies on the molecular mechanisms of organelle communication.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":8771,"journal":{"name":"Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 102402"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145748904","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}