Sajad Khodabandelu, Susan Jahankhah, Narges Moonesi Shabestari, Yaseen Eghbal, Sara Khaleghi, Amirmohammad Hajizadeh, Seyedeh Zeinab Ghaheri, Mohammadsadegh Jafari, Massoud Vosough, Mohammad Rahmanian
{"title":"The Association Between Telomere Length and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.","authors":"Sajad Khodabandelu, Susan Jahankhah, Narges Moonesi Shabestari, Yaseen Eghbal, Sara Khaleghi, Amirmohammad Hajizadeh, Seyedeh Zeinab Ghaheri, Mohammadsadegh Jafari, Massoud Vosough, Mohammad Rahmanian","doi":"10.2174/0115665240360593250805102356","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240360593250805102356","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Studies have stated that there has been a close association between the telomere length (TL) and the incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The goal of this report is to explore the possible association between TL and NAFLD.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. An extensive literature search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. The \"meta\" package in the R programming language, version 4.3.1, was used for statistical analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The meta-analysis of the included studies showed a pooled standard mean difference (SMD) of -0.25 (95% CI: -0.39 to -0.10), indicating shorter TL in NAFLD patients. Subgroup analyses revealed significant TL shortening in NAFLD patients with body mass index (BMI) <28 (SMD = -0.68, 95% CI: -0.96 to -0.39) and in case-control (-0.35, 95% CI: -0.51 to -0.20) and cohort studies (-0.68, 95% CI: -1.19 to -0.17). An odds ratio (OR) meta-analysis of six studies found that individuals with short TL had 1.72 times higher odds of NAFLD, which was statistically significant (95% CI: 1.23- 2.42, I2 = 85%). Excluding one study reduced heterogeneity (I2 = 37%) and increased the OR to 1.93 (95% CI: 1.45-2.56), confirming a strong association between short TL and NAFLD risk.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The findings suggest a potential link between shorter TL and NAFLD. The odds ratio analyses further emphasized the increased risk of NAFLD in individuals with short TL. Nevertheless, the residual heterogeneity highlights the need for further high-quality, standardized research.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Our findings supported the connection between reduced TL and NAFLD. Regardless of significant between-study diversity, the results remained consistent even after repeated sensitivity evaluations. Despite these findings, the high heterogeneity highlights the need for further well-designed studies to confirm TL as a reliable biomarker for NAFLD risk and progression.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145063539","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Role of Gut Microbiota in Modulating Inflammation and Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Implications for Complication Management.","authors":"Yahia A Kaabi","doi":"10.2174/0115665240393897250826074023","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240393897250826074023","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and severe complications, including cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. This article examines the role of gut microbiota in modulating inflammation and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as well as its implications for managing complications associated with the disease. We analyzed published literature to elucidate mechanisms linking microbial dysbiosis, impaired gut barrier function, and chronic inflammation to glycemic control and T2DM complications. Key findings suggest that gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to systemic inflammation and insulin resistance, thereby exacerbating the complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therapeutic strategies, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, promise to improve glycemic control and mitigate complications by restoring microbial balance. This review provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of the gut microbiota in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and highlights potential therapeutic interventions to enhance the management of complications.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144999814","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Anti-Glioblastoma Effects of Dorzolamide Alone and in Combination with Temozolomide on U87 Cells and CD133+Glioblastoma Stem Cells.","authors":"Iffat Raza, Kanwal Naz, Sahar Mubeen, Lubna Khan, Nadia Naeem, Bushra Wasim, Shahrukh Shaikh, Najia Karim Ghanchi, Farina Hanif","doi":"10.2174/0115665240391781250731145446","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240391781250731145446","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with a poor prognosis, primarily due to therapy resistance mediated by CD133+ glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). The BCL3 gene contributes to this resistance and is potentially regulated by Carbonic Anhydrase II (CA II). Additionally, BCL3 enhances β-catenin-mediated transcription, promoting tumor growth. Since CA II may modulate both BCL3 expression and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, its inhibition represents a promising therapeutic strategy. Therefore, this study investigated the antiglioblastoma potential of the CA II inhibitor Dorzolamide, alone and in combination with Temozolomide (TMZ), in U87 cells and CD133+ GSCs.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>U87 cells were treated with Dorzolamide, TMZ, or both. MTT, migration, invasion, TUNEL, and cell cycle assays assessed proliferation, motility, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. CD133+ GSCs were isolated by MACS and characterized by flow cytometry. Neurosphere assays and RT-qPCR analyzed neurosphere formation and mRNA expression of CA II, BCL3, β- catenin, and Twist, respectively. β-catenin protein expression was evaluated by immunocytochemistry.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Dorzolamide and TMZ significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion while promoting apoptosis in U87 cells; the combination had the strongest effect (P<0.001). Cell cycle arrest occurred in G0/G1. Neurosphere formation by CD133+ GSCs was markedly reduced (P<0.001). Expression of CA II, BCL3, β-catenin, and Twist was significantly downregulated in all treatment groups (P<0.001).</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>This study highlights FDA-approved CA II inhibitor Dorzolamide as a promising adjunct to TMZ therapy, effectively targeting GBM cells and therapy-resistant CD133+ GSCs. Its ability to inhibit CAII, BCL3, β-catenin, and Twist indicates its disruption of critical survival pathways in GSCs. However, further in vivo studies are required to confirm its therapeutic potential against GBM.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Dorzolamide inhibits GSC proliferation, promotes apoptosis in U87 cells, affects the cell cycle, and enhances TMZ activity, suggesting potential in GBM treatment.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144999811","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lucas da Silva Lopes, Tiago Silveira Gontijo, Ana Alice Maia Gonçalves, Vinicius Silva Belo, José Guilherme Prado Martin, Kamila Alves Silva, Thais da Silva Correa, Mariana Campos-da-Paz, Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino
{"title":"A Comprehensive Bibliometric Investigation on Antimicrobials from Fungal Origins with a Biotechnological Perspective.","authors":"Lucas da Silva Lopes, Tiago Silveira Gontijo, Ana Alice Maia Gonçalves, Vinicius Silva Belo, José Guilherme Prado Martin, Kamila Alves Silva, Thais da Silva Correa, Mariana Campos-da-Paz, Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino","doi":"10.2174/0115665240372278250630073325","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240372278250630073325","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Interest in fungal research has increased in recent years due to its relevance in producing bioactive compounds, which serve as promising sources of bacteriostatic and fungistatic agents. Their use represents a significant alternative to traditional antibiotics, minimizing the risks associated with microbial resistance. In this context, the present work aimed to: assess the volume of annual publications on the subject and identify key players, analyze the collaboration network among researchers, and check the patents filed on this topic For this purpose, the Bibliometrix R-package, as well as scientific metadata from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, were used (n=506). In total, 256 sources, authors (n=2,526), keywords (n=1,812), and references (n=19,315), from 1989 to 2023, were analyzed. The academic debate on the subject has been promoted by India (29%), the United Kingdom (UK) (7%), China (6%), and the United States of America (USA) (6%). The authors identified as the most cited were Liu J (n = 142), followed by Jesu Arockiaraj (n = 106). A knowledge predominance of publications focusing on the life science disciplines. The most prolific institutions were the National Research Center (n=20) and the University of Pittsburgh (n=13). The most cited journals were the World Journal of Microbiology & Biotechnology (n=719) and Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (n=661). Finally, the United States Patent and Trademark Office represented 85% of the patents filed on the subject (n=28,303). Collectively, the findings herein can guide researchers and biotechnology industries in identifying the most relevant sources for antimicrobial biotechnology.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144946036","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Transcriptome Analysis, Machine Learning, and Experimental Identification of CDK7 Affecting the Progression of Pregnancyinduced Hypertension by Influencing Macrophage Polarization.","authors":"Suyan Gu, Xiuqing Zhou, Xueyan Shen, Chunhui Xiao, Cuihong Gao, Xuan Zhang","doi":"10.2174/0115665240384035250807100445","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240384035250807100445","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a severe pregnancy complication characterized by placental insufficiency, abnormal vascular remodeling, and immune dysregulation, but personalized therapeutic markers remain unclear. This study aimed to identify key genes and explore immune mechanisms in PIH using transcriptome analysis, machine learning, and experimental validation.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We analyzed the GSE204835 transcriptomic dataset to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and performed Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Reactome, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) for functional annotation. Immune infiltration analysis was also performed to examine the immune landscape in PIH. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression identified key genes, which were validated in a PIH cell model. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence assays assessed the effect of CDK7 knockdown on macrophage polarization.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 1,598 DEGs (1,123 upregulated, 475 downregulated) were identified. Enrichment analyses highlighted associations with embryonic organ development, oxidative phosphorylation, angiogenesis, and oxidative stress. Immune infiltration analysis revealed altered eosinophil and macrophage polarization in PIH. LASSO regression selected 12 key genes, with CDK7 showing the most significant upregulation in the PIH model. CDK7 knockdown promoted macrophage polarization toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>These findings link CDK7 to immune dysregulation in PIH by modulating macrophage polarization, expanding our understanding of PIH's molecular mechanisms. The study's limitations include reliance on public datasets and in vitro models, warranting in vivo validation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>CDK7 emerges as a potential therapeutic target for PIH, offering new insights into immunoregulatory interventions for this complication.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144946007","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Akriti Gaurav, Zeeshan Fatima, Ahmed Yaqinuddin, Saif Hameed
{"title":"Integrating Traditional Medicine with Conventional Therapies to Combat Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Review.","authors":"Akriti Gaurav, Zeeshan Fatima, Ahmed Yaqinuddin, Saif Hameed","doi":"10.2174/0115665240392305250802095145","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240392305250802095145","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Tuberculosis (TB) poses a serious public health risk and is a hot topic in the international health forums. Global health organizations emphasize the importance of effectively managing and eradicating TB. The emergence of drug-resistant TB and the elevated risk of hepatotoxicity associated with anti-TB medications have highlighted the need for reevaluation of existing TB drugs. These challenges have led to prolonged dosing schedules and increased dosages to combat resistance and effectively eliminate the disease. In India, the government revised the National Tuberculosis Control Program to address this growing concern. India is home to six well-established traditional medical systems: Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, Naturopathy, and Homoeopathy (collectively known as AYUSH). This review compares the effectiveness of traditional medicinal regimens with conventional TB treatment. Herbal extracts used in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani offer promising alternatives for TB treatment, potentially reducing hepatotoxicity and liver damage while combating antibiotic resistance. These natural remedies are generally safe for consumption in larger quantities, cost-effective to produce, and free from harmful toxins. The findings in this article provide scientific support for the anti-TB potential of the diverse medical systems recognized by India's Ministry of AYUSH.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144946038","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mamta Goswami, Sibashish Kityania, Rajat Nath, Priyakshi Nath, Deepa Nath, Sayak Das, Bipin Kumar Sharma, Anupam Das Talukdar
{"title":"Genistein - A Broad-spectrum Bioactive Compound with Diverse Pharmacological Potential: A Systematic Review.","authors":"Mamta Goswami, Sibashish Kityania, Rajat Nath, Priyakshi Nath, Deepa Nath, Sayak Das, Bipin Kumar Sharma, Anupam Das Talukdar","doi":"10.2174/0115665240377727250703130718","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240377727250703130718","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Genistein is an isoflavone primarily extracted from soybeans and the Dyer's broom (Genista tinctora L.). It has been extensively studied using various extraction methods and characterized via NMR for structural elucidation. Its pharmacological potential, mediated through interactions with multiple receptors and signalling pathways, has been validated through numerous preclinical studies globally.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>To analyze the pharmaceutical profile of genistein using PASS software, we correlated it with existing literature, and evaluated its efficacy against various diseases. The study aims to explore the broad-spectrum potential of genistein as a lead compound against the various diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), neurodegenerative and viral diseases.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>It is a broad-spectrum drug that is effective against - cancer, heart associated diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and viral diseases. It is a potential anticancer drug that modulates apoptosis, cell cycle, metastasis, and regulates the cancer signalling pathways. Based on the compilation of reports from the literature reviews, it is effective against breast cancer (23%), neuroblastoma (12.77%), prostate and lung cancer (10.64%). Secondly, it has cardio protectant properties and supports cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function and lowering cholesterol. It is reported to be effective against cardiac dysfunction (38.46%), atherosclerosis (26.92%), and cardiotoxicity (15.39%). Thirdly, it offers various neuroprotective benefits in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's (69.84%) and Parkinson's (19.05%). Lastly, it was also reported to be effective against HSV (23.08%), HIV (23.08%) and HPV (15.39%) viral infections.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>Genistein exhibits a wide range of therapeutic properties, including anticancer, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antiviral effects. It has shown notable efficacy in treating cancers such as breast, prostate, and lung, as well as neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Additionally, its benefits in improving cardiovascular health and combating viral infections further support its potential as a multifunctional therapeutic agent. Although genistein has a broad pharmacological spectrum, its clinical relevance is hampered by a suboptimal pharmacokinetic profile, such as poor bioavailability, rapid systemic clearance, extensive first-pass metabolism, and low aqueous solubility, which limit its therapeutic efficacy.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This systematic review highlights genistein's pharmacological profile, demonstrating its efficacy against various diseases and its potential as a lead candidate for drug development in oncology, cardiovascular health, and neurodegenerative therapies. Thus, underscoring its potential, Genistein can be considered a versatile therapeutic agent.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144741535","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Functional Analysis of miR-148a: A Differentially Expressed microRNA in Hemifacial Microsomia.","authors":"Nan Huang, Mengzhe Sun, Yan Zhang, Qun Zhang","doi":"10.2174/0115665240371562250710210716","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240371562250710210716","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Hemifacial Microsomia (HFM) is the second most common congenital deformity, yet its etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to identify differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) between healthy and affected bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from HFM patients, focusing on the functional roles of miR-148a in osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The specific expression of microRNAs was screened by sequencing and verified by PCR. Through the use of mimics, inhibitors, and knockout technology, we controlled the expression of miR-148a in vivo and in vitro. Osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis induction, PCR, western blot, ALP staining, alizarin red staining, TRAP staining, micro-CT, and tissue sections were performed to explore the effects of miR-148 on osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>MiR-148a was identified and confirmed through our research as a differentially expressed miRNA in HFM. Overexpression of miR-148a increased osteogenesis-related gene and protein expression and mineralized calcium nodule formation while decreasing osteoclast-related gene and protein levels. Silencing or knockout of miR-148a produced opposite effects. miR-148a knockout mice were smaller than wild-type, with reduced osteogenesis, fewer trabeculae, increased trabecular bone separation in the mandible, and decreased ramus length. Additionally, local overexpression of miR-148a in knockout mice increased local bone mass.</p><p><strong>Discussions: </strong>The current study findings demonstrate that miR-148a can influence the bone volume, and its role in chondrogenesis deserves further research. Additionally, further studies on the changes upstream of miR-148a that lead to differences in miR-148a expression between the healthy and affected sides of HFM patients and the differences in bone size are warranted to better understand HFM pathogenesis.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Our findings suggest that the opposing effects of miR-148a on osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis lead to decreased bone mass in HFM. Local overexpression can reverse bone defects caused by miR-148a, suggesting its promising role in future treatments. We anticipate that further investigations will enhance our understanding and ultimately pave the way for the application of these insights in clinical settings for disease treatment.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-07-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144706624","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Cross-sectional Data Analysis between Serum Total Bilirubin and Potential Obesity Indices in US Adults.","authors":"Libing Tian, Jian-Gang Zhang, Yanshen Chen, Yong Feng, Qing Liu, Cunbao Ling","doi":"10.2174/0115665240379393250715115218","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0115665240379393250715115218","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Obesity is a major risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Recently, emerging biomarkers, such as the Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) and Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP), have garnered attention for their utility in assessing visceral obesity. Bilirubin, a potent endogenous antioxidant, has been associated with protective effects against various diseases. This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum total bilirubin (STB) levels and VAI/LAP in adults.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This cross-sectional study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2003 and 2020. The calculation of VAI and LAP was performed computationally. Weighted multivariate regression models were used to explore the potential correlation between STB levels and VAI or LAP. RCS curves were used to identify the potential non-linear relationship. Moreover, subgroup analyses were conducted to examine heterogeneity across different populations.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The analysis included a cohort of 10,625 individuals aged 20 to 85 years. Both unadjusted and adjusted statistical models revealed a significant negative association between STB levels and VAI or LAP (all P< 0.001). RCS indicates that these relationships are linear. Subgroup analyses identified particularly strong associations in non-smokers aged 20-59 without hypertension/diabetes (P < 0.05).</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>Our study's strengths include the use of nationally representative data with appropriate weighting, comprehensive adjustment for confounding variables, and pioneering research on the link between serum bilirubin levels and visceral fat indices, which may indicate early metabolic risk markers. This finding highlights the significant role of bilirubin in body fat distribution and lipid metabolism.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study revealed that STB was associated with VAI or LAP among the specific general American population aged 20-59 without hypertension/diabetes. Further prospective investigations are warranted to clarify the temporal relationship between STB and novel obesity indices.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-07-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144706623","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers of Cordocentesis Blood in Response to Fetal Anemia","authors":"Fuanglada Tongprasert, Sirinart Kumfu, Nipon Chattipakorn, Theera Tongsong","doi":"10.2174/1573405617666210204211744","DOIUrl":"10.2174/1573405617666210204211744","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Hypothetically, fetal anemic hypoxia causes cellular damage with an increase in oxidative stress levels. This study, using hemoglobin (Hb) Bart’s disease as a study model, aims to compare the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers as well as fetal hemodynamics in anemic fetuses with those of non-anemic fetuses.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>Forty pregnancies at risk of fetal Hb Bart’s disease scheduled for cordocentesis at 18 to 22 weeks were recruited into the study. Fetal blood was collected to measure the levels of 8-Isoprostane (8-Isop), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and hemoglobin as well as for hemoglobin typing.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>There was no significant difference in cord blood 8-Isop, TNF-α, and IL-10 levels between the Hb Bart’s disease group and the unaffected group, whereas several hemodynamic parameters, such as cardiac output, cardiac size, cardiac performance, middle cerebral artery – peak systolic velocity, etc., were significantly changed in the fetal Hb Bart’s group. In the subgroup analysis, the level of serum 8-Isop in the severe anemia group tended to increase, though not significantly, compared with the nonanemic group (275.3±141.8 vs. 203.9±49.2 pg/mL; p=0.079).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>In response to anemia, fetuses might have a high capacity of hemodynamic adaptation without significant cellular damage, though a trend of an increase in oxidative stress marker was found in severe fetal anemia. Theoretically, intrauterine blood transfusion for fetal anemia during adaptive compensation may result in no residual insults.</p>","PeriodicalId":10873,"journal":{"name":"Current molecular medicine","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-07-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"25350369","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}