{"title":"Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Jointly Explore the Mechanism of Pod Color Variation in Purple Pod Pea.","authors":"Xiaojuan Zhong, Mei Yang, Xiaoyan Zhang, Yuanfang Fan, Xianshu Wang, Chao Xiang","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020094","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020094","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Although the pod color was one of the seven characteristics Mendel studied in peas, the mechanism of color variation in peas with purple pods has not been reported. This study systemically analyzed the difference between two pea accessions with green pods (GPs) and purple pods (PPs) at two pod developmental stages from the metabolome and transcriptome levels, aiming to preliminarily explore the mechanism and of color variation in PPs and screen out the candidate genes. A total of 180 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) belonged to seven flavonoid subgroups and 23 flavonoid-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the analysis of the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment, respectively. Among the 180 flavonoid metabolites, ten anthocyanin compounds, which were the principal pigments in PPs and might be the major reason for the purple color formation, were significantly up-accumulated in both of the different pod development stages of PPs. A transcriptome analysis revealed that eight genes encoding enzymes (C4H, CHI, F3H, F3'H, F3'5'H, DFR, ANS, and FLS) involved in the flavonoid synthesis pathway were significantly upregulated in PPs and finally resulted in the significant accumulation of flavonoid and anthocyanin metabolites. The joint analysis of two omics and a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) also screened out that the WD-40 protein-encoding gene, one WRKY and three MYB transcription factor genes exhibited significant upregulation in PPs, and highly correlated with several structural genes in flavonoid synthesis pathways, indicating that these genes are involved in the regulation of pod color formation in PPs. Overall, the results of this study first explored the mechanism underlying the purple color variation between PPs and GPs, and then preliminarily screened out some candidate genes responsible for the pod color formation in PPs.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854479/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491182","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Electroporation Induces Unexpected Alterations in Gene Expression: A Tip for Selection of Optimal Transfection Method.","authors":"Taiji Hamada, Seiya Yokoyama, Toshiaki Akahane, Kei Matsuo, Ikumi Kitazono, Tatsuhiko Furukawa, Akihide Tanimoto","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020091","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020091","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Electroporation is an efficient method for nucleotide and protein transfer, and is used for clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated genome editing. In this study, we investigated the effects of electroporation on platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (<i>PDGFRA</i>) and receptor tyrosine kinase (<i>RTK</i>) expression in U-251 and U-87 MG cells. <i>PDGFRA</i> mRNA and protein expression decreased 2 days after electroporation in both cell lines, with recovery observed after 13 days in U-87 MG cells. However, in U-251 MG cells, PDGFRα expression remained suppressed, despite mRNA recovery after 13 days. Similar expression profiles were observed for lipofection in the U-251 MG cells. Comprehensive RNA sequencing confirmed electroporation-induced up- and down-regulation of <i>RTK</i> mRNA in U-251 MG cells 2 days post-electroporation. In contrast, recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) transfected with mNeonGreen fluorescent protein or Cas9 did not affect <i>PDGFRA</i>, <i>RTKs</i>, or inflammatory cytokine expression, suggesting fewer adverse effects of rAAV on U-251 MG cells. These findings emphasize the need for adequate recovery periods following electroporation or the adoption of alternative methods, such as rAAV transfection, to ensure the accurate assessment of CRISPR-mediated gene editing outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854308/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491119","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Chimeric Antigen Receptor Cell Therapy: Empowering Treatment Strategies for Solid Tumors.","authors":"Tang-Her Jaing, Yi-Wen Hsiao, Yi-Lun Wang","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020090","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020090","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cell therapy has demonstrated impressive efficacy in the treatment of blood cancers; however, its effectiveness against solid tumors has been significantly limited. The differences arise from a range of difficulties linked to solid tumors, including an unfriendly tumor microenvironment, variability within the tumors, and barriers to CAR-T cell infiltration and longevity at the tumor location. Research shows that the reasons for the decreased effectiveness of CAR-T cells in treating solid tumors are not well understood, highlighting the ongoing need for strategies to address these challenges. Current strategies frequently incorporate combinatorial therapies designed to boost CAR-T cell functionality and enhance their capacity to effectively target solid tumors. However, these strategies remain in the testing phase and necessitate additional validation to assess their potential benefits. CAR-NK (natural killer), CAR-iNKT (invariant natural killer T), and CAR-M (macrophage) cell therapies are emerging as promising strategies for the treatment of solid tumors. Recent studies highlight the construction and optimization of CAR-NK cells, emphasizing their potential to overcome the unique challenges posed by the solid tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia and metabolic barriers. This review focuses on CAR cell therapy in the treatment of solid tumors.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854309/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491086","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"NGF in Neuropathic Pain: Understanding Its Role and Therapeutic Opportunities.","authors":"Mario García-Domínguez","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020093","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020093","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Nerve growth factor (NGF) is one of the essential components that have been implicated in the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain, a condition that develops following nerve injury or dysfunction. This neurotrophin is critical for the survival and maintenance of sensory neurons, and its dysregulation has been implicated in the sensitization of pain pathways. NGF interacts with its receptor TrkA and p75<sup>NTR</sup> to activate intracellular signaling pathways associated with nociception and the emergence of allodynia and hyperalgesia. Therapeutic approaches employing neutralizing antibodies and molecule inhibitors have been highly effective at both preclinical and clinical levels, hence giving hope again for the use of NGF as an important biomarker and therapeutic target in the management of neuropathic pain. By exploiting the unique properties of NGF and its interactions within the nervous system, new therapeutic modalities could be designed to enhance efficacy while minimizing side effects. In conclusion, taking advantage of the multifaceted dynamics of NGF could provide effective pain management therapies to finally respond to the unmet needs of patients experiencing neuropathic pain.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854882/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491206","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Poojitha Yanamala, Jeong-Yun Youn, Prakash Thangavel, Ju-Young Moon, Young-Chul Lee
{"title":"Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Potential of Microwave-Assisted <i>Opuntia humifusa</i> (Korean Cheonnyencho) Aqueous Extract.","authors":"Poojitha Yanamala, Jeong-Yun Youn, Prakash Thangavel, Ju-Young Moon, Young-Chul Lee","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020088","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020088","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>O. humifusa</i> (Korean Cheonnyencho), a prickly pear cactus species, has garnered increased attention owing to its rich phytochemical composition and potential health benefits. In this study, the antioxidant and anti-cancer activities of a microwave-assisted aqueous extract derived from O. <i>humifusa</i> were investigated, and its phytochemical content was characterized. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to identify various bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and other antioxidants known for their potential health-promoting properties. Furthermore, the individual compounds in the flavonoids were separated using the HPLC fractionation technique. The antioxidant potential of the aqueous extract was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity. The results demonstrated the significant antioxidant activity of the extract, as evidenced by its ability to scavenge free radicals and effectively reduce oxidized molecules. The experiments involved treating colon cancer cells with varying concentrations of the extract (25 to 125 mg/mL) over a 24-h period, resulting in a remarkable dose-dependent inhibition of cell growth. Notably, this inhibitory effect was absent in HDFa cells, highlighting the potential selectivity of O. <i>humifusa</i> in targeting colon cancer cells.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854608/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491130","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Genetic Variation in a Crossing Population of <i>Camellia oleifera</i> Based on ddRAD Sequencing and Analysis of Association with Fruit Traits.","authors":"Lexin Zhou, Yu Li, Ling Ye, Jiani Li, Tian Liang, Yanxuan Liu, Weiwei Xie, Yiqing Xie, Shipin Chen, Hui Chen","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020092","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020092","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Tea oil is an important high-quality edible oil derived from woody plants. <i>Camellia oleifera</i> is the largest and most widely planted oil-producing plant in the <i>Camellia</i> genus in China, and its seeds are the most important source for obtaining tea oil. In current research, improving the yield and quality of tea oil is the main goal of oil tea genetic breeding. The aim of this study was to investigate the degree of genetic variation in an early crossing population of <i>C. oleifera</i> and identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genes significantly associated with fruit traits, which can provide a basis for marker-assisted selection and gene editing for achieving trait improvement in the future. In this study, we selected a crossing population of approximately 40-year-old <i>C. oleifera</i> with a total of 330 samples. Then, ddRAD sequencing was used for SNP calling and population genetic analysis, and association analysis was performed on fruit traits measured repeatedly for two consecutive years. The research results indicate that over 8 million high-quality SNPs have been identified, but the vast majority of SNPs occur in intergenic regions. The nucleotide polymorphism of this population is at a low level, and Tajima's D values are mostly greater than 0, indicating that the change in this population was not suitable for the model of central evolution. The population structure analysis shows that the population has seven theoretical sources of genetic material and can be divided into seven groups, and the clustering analysis results support the population structure analysis results. Association analysis identified significant SNPs associated with genes related to the seed number of a single fruit and seed kernel oil content. Our findings provide a basis for molecular breeding and future genetic improvement of cultivated oil tea.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854439/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491147","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Katarzyna Napiórkowska-Baran, Paweł Treichel, Anita Dardzińska, Agata Majcherczak, Anastazja Pilichowicz, Maciej Szota, Bartłomiej Szymczak, Ewa Alska, Justyna Przybyszewska, Zbigniew Bartuzi
{"title":"Immunomodulatory Effects of Selected Non-Nutritive Bioactive Compounds and Their Role in Optimal Nutrition.","authors":"Katarzyna Napiórkowska-Baran, Paweł Treichel, Anita Dardzińska, Agata Majcherczak, Anastazja Pilichowicz, Maciej Szota, Bartłomiej Szymczak, Ewa Alska, Justyna Przybyszewska, Zbigniew Bartuzi","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020089","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020089","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The contemporary approach to nutrition increasingly considers the role of non-nutritive bioactive compounds in modulating the immune system and maintaining health. This article provides up-to-date insight into the immunomodulatory effects of selected bioactive compounds, including micro- and macronutrients, vitamins, as well as other health-promoting substances, such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics (including butyric acid and sodium butyrate), coenzyme Q10, lipoic acid, and plant-derived components such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, polyacetylenes, saponins, carotenoids, and terpenoids. Micro- and macronutrients, such as zinc, selenium, magnesium, and iron, play a pivotal role in regulating the immune response and protecting against oxidative stress. Vitamins, especially vitamins C, D, E, and B, are vital for the optimal functioning of the immune system as they facilitate the production of cytokines, the differentiation of immunological cells, and the neutralization of free radicals, among other functions. Omega-3 fatty acids exhibit strong anti-inflammatory effects and enhance immune cell function. Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics modulate the intestinal microbiota, thereby promoting the integrity of the intestinal barrier and communication between the microbiota and the immune system. Coenzyme Q10, renowned for its antioxidant attributes, participates in the protection of cells from oxidative stress and promotes energy processes essential for immune function. Sodium butyrate and lipoic acid exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and facilitate the regeneration of the intestinal epithelium, which is crucial for the maintenance of immune homeostasis. This article emphasizes the necessity of an integrative approach to optimal nutrition that considers not only nutritional but also non-nutritional bioactive compounds to provide adequate support for immune function. Without them, the immune system will never function properly, because it has been adapted to this in the course of evolution. The data presented in this article may serve as a foundation for further research into the potential applications of bioactive components in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with immune dysfunction.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854453/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491168","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Respiratory Muscle Injury Following Acute Monocled Cobra (<i>Naja kaouthia</i>) Envenoming: Histopathological Study in Rat Diaphragm.","authors":"Wanida Chuaikhongthong, Wipapan Khimmaktong, Natyamee Thipthong, Nissara Lorthong, Janeyuth Chaisakul","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020086","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020086","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Clinical symptoms of monocled cobra (<i>Naja kaouthia</i>) envenoming include the paralysis of extraocular muscles, local tissue necrosis and death through respiratory failure. These neurotoxic outcomes are mainly due to the inhibitory action of postsynaptic neurotoxins to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. However, injuries involving respiratory muscles have rarely been investigated. In this study, we determined the effect of <i>N. kaouthia</i> envenoming on morphological changes in the rat diaphragm. The efficacy of cobra monovalent antivenom in neutralising the histopathological effects of <i>N. kaouthia</i> venom was also evaluated. The intramuscular (i.m.) administration of <i>N. kaouthia</i> venom (2 mg/kg) caused skeletal muscle fibre atrophy and ruptures of myofibrils shown via a light microscope study. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the zig-zagging of the Z-band, mitochondrial damages and degeneration of the synaptic fold of the neuromuscular junction following experimental cobra envenoming for 4 h. Intravenous administration of cobra antivenom at manufacturer-recommended doses diminished histopathological changes in the diaphragm following the administration of cobra venom. The expression of NF-kB and MuRF1 in the experimentally <i>N. kaouthia-</i>envenomed diaphragm indicated inflammation and tissue atrophy in the immunofluorescence analysis, respectively. In this study, we found that there were respiratory muscle injuries following <i>N. kaouthia</i> envenoming. The early administration of monovalent <i>N. kaouthia</i> antivenom is capable of neutralising neurotoxic outcomes following cobra envenoming.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854468/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143490400","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Insights on the Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Melanogenic Effects of 2'-Hydroxy-2,6'-dimethoxychalcone in RAW 264.7 and B16F10 Cells.","authors":"Sung-Min Bae, Chang-Gu Hyun","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020085","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020085","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Chalcones are recognized for their diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-melanogenic effects. However, studies on 2'-hydroxy-2-methoxychalcone derivatives remain limited. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and melanin synthesis-inhibitory effects of three derivatives: 2'-hydroxy-2,4-dimethoxychalcone (2,4-DMC), 2'-hydroxy-2,5'-dimethoxychalcone (2,5'-DMC), and 2'-hydroxy-2,6'-dimethoxychalcone (2,6'-DMC). In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, 2,6'-DMC demonstrated a superior inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) compared to the other derivatives. A mechanistic analysis revealed that 2,6'-DMC modulates the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways to attenuate inflammation. Additionally, 2,6'-DMC exhibited a significant inhibition of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced melanin synthesis in B16F10 melanoma cells by downregulating tyrosinase, TRP-1, TRP-2, and MITF expression. This regulation was achieved through the suppression of the Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and PKA/CREB pathways. Compared to 2,4-DMC and 2,5'-DMC, 2,6'-DMC's structural configuration, characterized by methoxy groups at the 2- and 6'-positions, contributed to its enhanced molecular stability and binding affinity, amplifying its inhibitory effects. A primary skin irritation test confirmed that 2,6'-DMC exhibited minimal irritation, demonstrating its safety for dermal applications. These findings suggest that 2,6'-DMC holds promise as a dual-function agent for managing inflammatory conditions and hyperpigmentation-related disorders.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854153/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491072","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Significance of Malic Enzyme 1 in Cancer: A Review.","authors":"Rina Fujiwara-Tani, Chie Nakashima, Hitoshi Ohmori, Kiyomu Fujii, Yi Luo, Takamitsu Sasaki, Ruiko Ogata, Hiroki Kuniyasu","doi":"10.3390/cimb47020083","DOIUrl":"10.3390/cimb47020083","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Malic enzyme 1 (ME1) plays a key role in promoting malignant phenotypes in various types of cancer. ME1 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and enhances stemness via glutaminolysis, energy metabolism reprogramming from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. As a result, ME1 promotes the malignant phenotypes of cancer cells and poor patient prognosis. In particular, ME1 expression is promoted in hypoxic environments associated with hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1) α. ME1 is overexpressed in budding cells at the cancer invasive front, promoting cancer invasion and metastasis. ME1 also generates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADPH), which, together with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1), expands the NADPH pool, maintaining the redox balance in cancer cells, suppressing cell death by neutralizing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and promoting stemness. This review summarizes the latest research insights into the mechanisms by which ME1 contributes to cancer progression. Because ME1 is involved in various aspects of cancer and promotes many of its malignant phenotypes, it is expected that ME1 will become a novel drug target in the near future.</p>","PeriodicalId":10839,"journal":{"name":"Current Issues in Molecular Biology","volume":"47 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-01-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11854147/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143491058","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}