Current Medicinal Chemistry - Volume 33, Issue 1, 2026

We aimed to develop Ferroptosis-Related Gene (FRG) signatures to predict overall survival (OS) along with disease-free survival (DFS) in individuals with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Prediction of CRC prognosis is challenging. Ferroptosis constitutes a newly reported kind of cell death, and its association with CRC prognosis remains unexplored.

This research endeavored to establish a prognostic risk signature for colorectal cancer by leveraging ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs), with the objective of refining prognostic precision in clinical settings.

The clinical data and mRNA expression profiles were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) colorectal cancer cohorts. The Lasso algorithm was employed to develop the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) prediction models. These models were subsequently validated using independent data from GSE38832.

Our research unveiled a significant difference in the expression levels of 85% of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) between CRC tissues and paracancer tissues. Out of these, 11 prognostic genes were pinpointed through univariate Cox analysis. By employing two models, patients were stratified into low- and high-risk groups based on predicted risk scores, which were subsequently validated as independent prognostic factors via multivariate Cox analysis. The robustness of these models was further confirmed through Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Functional enrichment analysis indicated a predominance of cancer-associated pathways in the high-risk group, including WNT signaling, along with variations in immune status between the two risk categories. Leveraging the Connectivity Map (CMap) database, a total of sixteen potential therapeutic drugs were identified. Additionally, in vitro experiments corroborated that Farnesyl-Diphosphate Farnesyltransferase 1 (FDFT1) was underexpressed in CRC and exhibited tumor suppressive properties. More specifically, FDFT1 may augment ferroptosis in CRC by modulating the expression of the Iron-Sulfur Cluster Assembly Enzyme (ISCU).

Our study highlighted the significance of ferroptosis-related genes in the pathogenesis of CRC and underscored the potential of ferroptosis-related gene-based risk signatures as valuable tools for improving prognostic accuracy and tailoring therapeutic strategies. However, the validity of these predictive models required further validation through real-world studies to ensure their reliability and applicability.

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone malignancy in the world. Increasing studies indicate that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in ferroptosis and OS progression. Therefore, this study aims to identify ferroptosis-related lncRNAs (FRlncRNAs), explore potential competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, and establish a new model for predicting OS prognosis.

Firstly, we downloaded data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), and FerrDB, and screened for differentially expressed FRlncRNAs (DEFRlncRNAs) between OS patients and healthy controls. Then, we constructed the ceRNA network using the Lncbase 3.0, starBase, miRDB, miRTarBase, and TargetScan databases. Subsequently, prognosis-related DEFRlncRNAs were selected through Cox analysis, and a prognostic model was constructed. Next, the proportions of different immune cells in high and low-risk groups were quantified and evaluated using the “CIBERSORT” algorithm. Finally, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed on prognosis-related DEFRlncRNAs to identify top-ranked biological processes and pathways.

We identified 247 DEFRlncRNAs and constructed the ceRNA network comprising 37 lncRNAs, 84 microRNAs (miRNAs), and 865 messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Subsequently, we obtained 8 prognosis-related DEFRlncRNAs (AL645728.1, AL161785.1, LINC00539, AL590764.1, OLMALINC, AC110995.1, AC091180.2, and AL160006.1) and constructed a prognostic model, where metastasis and risk score were identified as important clinical factors for predicting OS prognosis. Additionally, only OLMALINC and AL160006.1 had corresponding target miRNAs in the prognosis-related ceRNA network. Lastly, we revealed the infiltration proportions of different immune cells in OS, with higher proportions of macrophages (M0 and M2 subgroups) and T cells (T cells CD4 memory resting and T cells CD8) observed.

This study explored the ferroptosis-related lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in OS, constructed a ferroptosis-related prognostic model, and characterized its association with immune infiltration, providing new insights into the pathological mechanisms and targeted therapy development for OS.

Internal or external stress can induce cellular senescence, which reduces cell division. These metabolically active cells contribute to medication resistance. We examined the potential for edaravone (Eda) to cause apoptosis in dasatinib (Das)-induced senescent gastric adenocarcinoma cells (AGS). Our goal was to develop a new stomach cancer treatment.

All Eda doses evaluated were nontoxic to cells. Das decreased AGS cell survival in a dose-dependent manner. The study found that Das (5-10 μM) and Eda (100 μM) caused cell senescence in AGS cells. This was shown by increased β-galactosidase enzyme activity and reactive oxygen species levels and decreased telomerase enzyme activity. These are the biggest signs of aging.

This combination therapy also upregulated the expression of cell-senescence genes p53, p16, p21, and p38. This resulted in increased expression of inflammation genes such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.

The scratch assay showed that this combination medication down-regulated the cell migration-regulating matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) gene. Both Das and Eda decreased AGS cell proliferation, suggesting treatment with Eda may prevent metastasis.

To build an innovative telomere-associated scoring model to predict prognosis and treatment responsiveness in acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

AML is a highly heterogeneous malignant hematologic disorder with a poor prognosis. While telomere maintenance is frequently observed in tumors, investigations into telomere-related genes (TRGs) in AML remain limited.

This study aimed to identify prognostic TRGs using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression, evaluate their predictive value, explore the association between TRG scores and immune cell infiltration, and assess the sensitivity of high-scoring AML patients to chemotherapeutic agents.

Univariate Cox regression analysis was conducted on the TCGA cohort to identify prognostic TRGs and to develop the TRG scoring model using LASSO-Cox and multivariate Cox regression. Validation was performed on the GSE37642 cohort. Immune cell infiltration patterns were assessed through computational analysis, and the sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents was evaluated.

Thirteen prognostic TRGs were identified, and a seven-TRG scoring model (including NOP10, OBFC1, PINX1, RPA2, SMG5, MAPKAPK5, and SMN1) was developed. Higher TRG scores were associated with a poorer prognosis, as confirmed in the GSE37642 cohort, and remained an independent prognostic factor even after adjusting for other clinical characteristics. The high-score group was characterized by elevated infiltration of B cells, T helper cells, natural killer cells, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, regulatory T (Treg) cells, M2 macrophages, neutrophils, and monocytes, along with reduced infiltration of gamma delta T cells, CD4- T cells, and resting mast cells. Moreover, high infiltration of M2 macrophages and Tregs was associated with poor overall survival compared to low infiltration. Notably, high-risk AML patients were resistant to Erlotinib, Parthenolide, and Nutlin-3a, but sensitive to AC220, Midostaurin, and Tipifarnib. Additionally, using RT-qPCR, we observed significantly higher expression of two model genes, OBFC1 and SMN1, in AML tissues compared to control tissues.

This innovative TRG scoring model demonstrates considerable predictive value for AML patient prognosis, offering valuable insights for optimizing treatment strategies and personalized medicine approaches. The identified TRGs and associated scoring models could aid in risk stratification and guide tailored therapeutic interventions in AML patients.

Astaxanthin (AXT), a natural antioxidant recognized for its therapeutic potential in cancer and cardiovascular diseases, holds promise in mitigating adriamycin-induced cardiotoxicity (AIC). Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms of AXT in AIC mitigation remain to be elucidated. Consequently, this study endeavors to elucidate the mechanism of AXT against AIC, employing an integrated approach.

Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations were harnessed to explore the molecular mechanism underlying AXT's action against AIC. Furthermore, the in-vitro AIC model was established with the H9c2 cell to generate transcriptome data for validation.

A total of 533 putative AXT targets and 1478 AIC-related genes were initially screened by database retrieval and bioinformatics analysis. A total of 248 potential targets of AXT against AIC and several signaling pathways were identified by network pharmacology and enrichment analysis. Two core genes (CCL2 and NOS3) and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications were further highlighted by transcriptome validation based on the AIC in-vitro model. Additionally, molecular docking and dynamics analyses supported the robust binding affinity of AXT with the core targets.

The study suggested that AXT might ameliorate AIC through the inhibition of CCL2 and NOS3 as well as AGE-RAGE signaling, which provide a theoretical basis for the development of a strategy against AIC.

The pathogenesis of Delayed Encephalopathy After Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning (DEACMP) remains mysterious, and specific predictive markers are lacking. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular underpinnings and identify predictive biomarkers of DEACMP through multi-omics and single-nucleusRNA sequencing (snRNA-seq).

Clinical data and blood samples were collected from 105 participants. Untargeted metabolomics sequencing was employed to profile serum metabolites across these participants. Additionally, individuals from the Healthy Controls (HCs), Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning patients (ACOP), Non-Delayed Encephalopathy After ACOP (DEACMP-N), and DEACMP groups (n=3 each) were randomly selected for transcriptome sequencing to identify potential predictive targets and pivotal signaling pathways associated with DEACMP. Furthermore, Severe DEACMP and Control rat models were established. Three rats from the Control, DEACMP, and DEACMP + Dexamethasone + Selenomethionine groups were selected for snRNA-seq. Immunofluorescence multiplexing and qRT-PCR (quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) were then performed to validate the identified predictive targets.

Analysis of clinical data from 105 participants highlights the pivotal role of inflammation in influencing the prognosis of carbon monoxide poisoning. Metabolomics analysis identified 19 metabolites that significantly differed between the DEACMP-N and DEACMP groups. Transcriptomics analysis of 12 participants indicated that DEACMP is primarily associated with six signaling pathways, including lysosome and tuberculosis. Considering that microglia are central nervous system immune effectors, the snRNA-seq analysis revealed altered gene expression and signaling pathways in microglia during DEACMP, with KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) analysis highlighting neutrophil extracellular trap formation, lysosome, and tuberculosis as the predominant pathways. Differential gene analysis from transcriptome and snRNA-seq identified 28 genes differentially expressed in DEACMP. The STRING (Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins) database, immune multiplexing, and qRT-PCR confirmed the pivotal role of the Ifngr1/Stat1/Ctss axis in DEACMP.

This research identifies the Ifngr1/Stat1/Ctss axis as a key inflammatory mechanism in the pathogenesis of DEACMP, thereby clarifying previous uncertainties regarding the sequelae of carbon monoxide poisoning. The intersection of lysosomal and tuberculosis pathways, as revealed through metabolomic, transcriptomic, and single-nucleus RNA sequencing analyses—especially within microglia—offers novel mechanistic insights that could inform therapeutic interventions. While the integration of multiple omics methodologies enhances the robustness of these findings, their biological relevance to the pathogenesis of DEACMP requires rigorous validation through independent cohort verification approaches.

This study provides a comprehensive overview of serum metabolite expression, differential gene expression, and signaling pathways in DEACMP, offering a theoretical foundation for understanding the pathogenesis of DEACMP.

Escherichia coli strains are known to cause various gastrointestinal disorders, with Shiga toxin 2, a potent cytotoxin, being a key virulence factor contributing to disease severity. Targeting Shiga toxin 2 presents a promising approach for therapeutic intervention in controlling E. coli O157 infections. This study aims to explore natural and synthetic inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents against Shiga toxin 2 through in-silico molecular docking and drug-likeness predictions.

An in-silico molecular docking study was conducted using AutoDock Vina and Chimera to assess the binding affinity of various natural and synthetic inhibitors against Shiga toxin 2. The selected inhibitors were evaluated for their drug-likeness based on adsorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties, applying Lipinski's rule of five and the Boiled-Egg technique to predict their suitability as potential drugs in biological systems.

During the screening process, luteolin, a natural flavonoid, exhibited the highest binding affinity to Shiga toxin 2, with a notable negative binding energy of -8.7 kcal/mol, indicating strong interaction potential.

The findings suggest that luteolin holds promise as a lead molecule for further development as a therapeutic agent against E. coli infections, warranting additional studies to validate its efficacy and safety.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) syndrome on various aspects of acne exacerbation. Additionally, we aimed to explore the risk factors for acne exacerbation after COVID-19 syndrome.

A total of 211 subjects with acne were enrolled, and their key demographic characteristics and lifestyle factors were recorded. They were asked whether acne exacerbation occurred after COVID-19 syndrome, as well as the latency of exacerbation, the exacerbation location, and the form of skin lesions. The risk factors were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazard regression model. Overall, 41.2% of cases reported exacerbation of acne after COVID-19 syndrome. Age was found to be a protective factor. Additionally, sufficient fruit intake may slightly prevent exacerbation. For participants engaging in daily physical exercise, the likelihood of exacerbation was significantly increased after COVID-19 syndrome.

The probability of exacerbation was significantly higher if an acne itch was present. Patients who experienced exacerbation in the chin area were more likely to develop acne-induced anxiety. Males had a higher risk of aggravation of the cyst form. Interestingly, those with lower education levels were more likely to have aggravation in the right cheek after COVID-19 syndrome. Moreover, physical exercise might prevent aggravation in the front or back areas.

Finally, fish intake of ≥240 g per week was related to the aggravation of the hard nodule form. In conclusion, age and adequate fruit intake may play a protective role, while acne itch and daily exercise may be risk factors for acne exacerbation.

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular issue caused by diabetes. Idebenone (IDE) is a coenzyme Q10 analog and antioxidant that has been utilized in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Our goal was to investigate how IDE might treat diabetic retinopathy. An in vivo DR model was established by injecting a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ). Rats were treated with IDE, and their vascular function was measured by ultrasound. The retina structure was checked by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The expression of biomarkers of autophagy and apoptosis was measured by Western blotting assay. The retina endothelial cell line RF/6A was stimulated with high glucose (HG) and treated with IDE. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed using the Edu assay, TUNEL assay, and flow cytometry, respectively.

Reduced peak systolic velocity (PSV), mean velocity (MV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), and increased pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) were observed in diabetic rats; however, these traits were reversed by IDE therapy. IDE alleviated the STZ-induced disordered retina structure. The IDE administration suppressed DR-induced apoptosis and autophagy both in vivo and in vitro. IDE suppressed the activation of Phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) signaling. Activation of PI3K abolished the IDE-alleviated retina damage and cell death.

IDE regulated the autophagy of retina cells to alleviate diabetic retinopathy via regulating the PI3K signaling pathway.

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) results from impaired vascular endothelial cell function, disrupting key processes such as hemostasis, vascular tone regulation, vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. These processes are mediated by a complex signaling network involving hormones, cytokines, and chemokines. ED is recognized as a major contributor to the onset and progression of several micro- and macrovascular diseases, including diabetes. Our previous study demonstrated that the polyphenol Rosolic acid (RA) protects against endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced ED in vitro by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Additionally, RA enhanced the proliferation and survival of pancreatic β-cells in a co-culture model with endothelial cells under ER stress conditions.

In this study, we investigated RA's protective effects against diabetes-induced ED using high-fat diet (HFD)-fed and streptozotocin-induced type-2 diabetic rat models. We evaluated RA’s impact on vascular function and metabolic parameters in these models.

RA significantly mitigated diabetes-induced ED in the aortic tissues of HFD-fed diabetic Wistar rats. RA treatment improved glucose tolerance and reduced hyperlipidemia, showing efficacy comparable to the anti-diabetic drug Gliclazide. Moreover, RA elevated Nrf2 levels and its downstream target genes in aortic tissues while reducing ED markers such as Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), and endothelin-1.

These findings highlight RA as a promising therapeutic agent for diabetes and its associated vascular complications, with potential for broader clinical applications.