Journal of Medical Biochemistry

Association between Elevated Iron Status and the Risk of Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Changhong Li — 2026-02-12

Background: This review aims to conduct a comprehensive and systematic report of the currently published information on the association between elevated hepcidin levels and the risk of preeclampsia by meta-analysis of published prospective case-control studies or cross-sectional studies combined with follow-up to provide a comprehensive and reliable basis for early intervention and clinical decision making in the disease.

Methods: We searched five databases such as Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WAN FANG DATA to retrieve articles related to the relationship between elevated levels of hepcidin and the risk of preeclampsia up to February 2025. We calculated the standardized mean deviation (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for comparison using a random-effects model.

Results: A total of 8 articles were included in this review. The results found that higher serum hepcidin and serum iron levels and lower serum transferrin levels were observed in pregnant women presenting with preeclampsia compared with normotensive pregnant women (serum hepcidin: SMD = 1.08, 95%CI: 0.03, 2.14; serum iron: SMD = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.41, 0.86; serum transferrin: SMD = -0.50, 95%CI: -0.73, -0.27).

Conclusions: Similar to the previous review, this systematic review and meta-analysis showed that high serum iron levels might be associated with a higher risk for preeclampsia. In addition, this meta-analysis summarized two mechanisms for the failure of hepcidins to reduce serum iron levels in pregnant mothers with preeclampsia in late pregnancy. And this meta-analysis would guide further clinical studies.

Correlation analysis of cytokines level and peripheral blood T lymphocyte subsets in systemic vascular inflammatory disease

Zhonghan Lin — 2025-11-12

Objective: To measure the levels of T-cell subsets and cytokines in the peripheral blood of patients with systemic vascular inflammatory disease and to analyze the influence of different clinical characteristics of systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients on the levels of T-cell subsets and cytokines in the peripheral blood.

Methods: The case group consisted of 80 systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients who were diagnosed and treated at our hospital between January 2021 and December 2024. Forty healthy volunteers were selected from our hospital's health assessment center to form the control group. The expression of helper T-cell (Th)1, Th17 and regulatory T-cell (Treg) subsets in the peripheral circulation was determined via flow cytometry. The levels of the cytokines interleukin and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in the serum were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, and IL-6.

Results: Compared with those in the control group, the expression levels of total T lymphoid subsets and CD8+ T and Th1 cells in systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients were significantly greater, and there was no statistically significant difference in Th, Th17, or Treg cell expression between the groups (P>0.05). However, there were statistically significant differences between the two groups [68.75 (54.23, 80.32)] and [72.10 (62.23, 86.45)], [23.44 (12.89, 33.76)] and [31.46 (20.13, 45.26)], [10.67 (8.23, 12.35)] and [10.26, 17.96 [25.39)], Z = -3.13, -4.54, -3.97 (all P values <0.05). Compared with those in the control group, systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients had significantly higher serum levels of IL-17, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4, and IFN-γ, whereas their serum levels of IL-10 were significantly lower. The differences were statistically significant (Z = -4.32, -5.01, -8.18, -8.70, -3.48, and -8.30). The P values were all <0.05. Compared with that in patients without related manifestations, IL-6 expression was noticeably higher in systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients with arthritic symptoms and those with active systemic vascular inflammatory disease, and the difference was statistically significant {pg/mL: [3.23 (2.98, 5.35)] compared with [10.51 (6.72, 23.21)], [6.32 (4.79, 8.93)] compared with [9.68 (6.97, 18.73)], Z = 5.47, 8.76, P values < 0.05}. Compared with those in patients without relevant clinical manifestations, the levels of TNF-α in patients with arthritis manifestations, ocular manifestations, digestive tract manifestations and active systemic vascular inflammatory disease were significantly greater, whereas the levels of IFN-γ in systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients with digestive system lesions were significantly greater. The differences were statistically significant {pg/mL: [7.74 (6.89, 10.19)] compared with [39.84 (30.37, 50.61)], [6.12 (5.36, 9.89)] compared with [31.35 (15.71, 30.46)], [6.49 (4.78, 10.21)] compared with [19.89 (14.36, 36.21)]. [5.89 (4.61, 8.96)] than [27.91 (15.32, 37.81)], [6.89 (5.43, 14.86)] than [26.79 (15.41, 31.56)], Z = 7.70, 6.84, 6.94, 9.47, 5.70, P values < 0.05}. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the expression levels of IL-4 and IL-17 between systemic vascular inflammatory disease patients without relevant clinical manifestations and those with relevant clinical manifestations (P>0.05).

Conclusion: Patients with systemic vascular inflammatory disease have an imbalance of T lymphocyte subsets and cytokines, and disease activity and clinical classification may involve an imbalance of T-cell subsets and cytokines.

Serum Omentin-1 and CS846: Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Post-TKA Functional Outcomes in Knee Osteoarthritis

Yingzhao Qi — 2025-11-11

Objective: To determine the synergistic diagnostic value of serum Omentin-1 and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein epitope CS846 (CS846) in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and to explore their link to functional recovery following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), thereby contributing to improved early screening and prognostic strategies.

Methods: We designed a prospective cohort study involving 84 subjects (42 with KOA and 42 healthy controls). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was employed to measure serum Omentin-1, CS846, and inflammatory indices (hs-CRP and ESR). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves determined diagnostic efficacy, and a logistic regression model was established for combined diagnosis. Functional outcomes, measured by WOMAC scores, and rehabilitation status was reviewed 6 months post-surgery.

Results: Analysis revealed reduced Omentin-1 and elevated CS846 in KOA patients versus controls. The diagnostic performance (AUC=0.851) of the biomarker combination surpassed that of individual tests. Patients with KL1-2 grades exhibited elevated Omentin-1 but lower CS846 levels compared to those with KL3-4 grades (P<0.05). An inverse correlation was observed between Omentin-1 and inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, ESR), contrasting with the positive correlation for CS846. Post-treatment, poor recovery was associated with more pronounced decreases in Omentin-1 and increases in CS846 (P<0.05). The combined model effectively predicted suboptimal rehabilitation outcomes (AUC=0.857).

Conclusion: The synergistic use of serum Omentin-1 and CS846 biomarkers boosts early detection capability for KOA while accurately forecasting post-TKA functional outcomes.

Correlation of Bone Metabolism with Serum Pain Mediators and Inflammatory Cytokines in Knee Osteoarthritis and Their Role in Predicting Suboptimal Rehabilitation Outcomes

Yan Tao — 2025-11-11

Objective: The present study was designed to investigate how bone metabolism markers—specifically Procollagen Type I N-Terminal Propeptide (PINP) and C-Telopeptide of Type I Collagen (CTX)—correlate with serum pain mediators (Prostaglandin E₂ [PGE₂], Norepinephrine [NE], Substance P [SP]) and inflammatory cytokines (Interleukin-1β [IL-1β], Interleukin-6 [IL-6], Tumor Necrosis Factor-α [TNF-α]) in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). A further aim was to develop a multi-biomarker predictive model for identifying patients at risk of suboptimal rehabilitation outcomes to guide targeted clinical management.

Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 184 KOA patients and an equal number of matched healthy controls were enrolled between January 2023 and May 2024. Using baseline serum, biomarker levels were assessed; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was employed for all analytes except SP, which was determined by radioimmunoassay. The primary endpoint, suboptimal rehabilitation outcome, was determined as either a <30% enhancement in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score or a <2-point decrease on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Model construction utilized multivariate logistic regression, with its performance evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, obtaining the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity.

Results: KOA patients exhibited significantly lower serum PINP levels but elevated levels of CTX, PGE₂, NE, SP, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α compared to controls (P<0.05). PINP demonstrated significant inverse correlations with the pain and inflammatory biomarkers, while CTX showed strong positive correlations with them (P<0.05). The integrative logistic regression model, integrating PINP, CTX, inflammatory cytokines, and pain mediators, demonstrated excellent predictive value for poor outcomes, with an AUC of 0.862, 83.58% sensitivity, and 78.63% specificity (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Dysregulated bone metabolism (characterized by low PINP and high CTX) in KOA is significantly linked to heightened expression of pain-associated and inflammatory markers. A combined panel of these biomarkers serves as an effective tool for predicting individuals likely to experience suboptimal rehabilitation results.

Correlation analysis of serum NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7 and CTRP12 levels in chronic heart failure patients

Zhen Fan — 2025-11-09

Objective: To investigate serum N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP), insulin-like growth factor binding protein-7 (IGFBP-7), and C1q tumor necrosis factor-related protein 12 (CTRP12) levels and significance in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).

Methods: The CHF group consisted of 116 CHF patients who received care at this hospital between October 2023 and March 2025. The patients were classified into Grade II (47 patients), Grade III (41 patients), or Grade IV (28 patients) based on the heart function classification of the New York Heart Association (NYHA). The control group consisted of 64 healthy patients who were examined physically in the hospital throughout the same time period. Using multivariate logistic regression, the factors impacting MACEs in patients with congestive heart failure were examined. Through the use of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, researchers were able to assess the predictive power of blood NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, and CTRP12 for MACEs in chronic heart failure patients.

Results: Comparing the CHF group to the control group, the LVEDD increased, the LVEF and serum CTRP12 decreased, and the levels of NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, Hcy, and hs-CRP climbed (P<0.05). Among patients with CHF of different grades, serum NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, Hcy, hs-CRP, and LVEDD levels were all lower in Grade II patients than in Grade III patients. Furthermore, the differences between any two grades were statistically significant (P<0.05). The levels of LVEF and serum CTRP12 in the MACE group decreased, the LVEDD increased, and the levels of serum Hcy, hs-CRP, NT-pro-BNP and IGFBP-7 increased (P<0.05). MACEs in CHF patients were influenced by serum NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, and CTRP12 (P<0.05). The areas under the curve (AUCs) of serum NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, CTRP12 alone and the combination of the three for predicting MACEs in patients with CHF were 0.862 (95% CI: 0.786–0.919), 0.805 (95% CI: 0.721–0.872), and 0.860 (95% CI: 0.784–0.918) and 0.961 (95% CI: 0.908–0.988), respectively. The AUCs of the three combined predictions were significantly greater than those of the individual predictions of NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, and CTRP12 (Z=3.050, 3.883, 3.218, all P<0.05).

Conclusion: Serum levels of IGFBP-7 and NT-pro-BNP increase in CHF patients, whereas the level of CTRP12 decreases. Additionally, once functional classification was applied, NT-pro-BNP, IGFBP-7, and CTRP12 levels changed. The combined detection of these three parameters has better efficacy in predicting MACEs in patients with CHF.

Analysis of inflammatory immune correlation of the coagulation spectrum, PT, FBG, FDP, D-D in autoimmune diseases

Yinghong Zhong — 2025-11-04

Objective: To investigate the expression of coagulation markers and their correlations with immunological function and inflammation in patients with autoimmune diseases (sjogren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis).

Methods: A total of 183 patients were selected for the study: 61 RA patients who made up the RA group were admitted to our hospital between December 2023 and December 2024, 61 pSS patients composed the pSS group, and 61 normal physical examinees who were in the physical examination center of our hospital during the same period composed the control group. Baseline clinical indicators of patients in each group before treatment were collected, including the plasma prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), thrombin time (TT), plasma fibrinogen (FBG), partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen degradation products (FDP), and plasma D-dimer (D-D).

Results: The expression levels of PT, FBG, TT, FDP and DD in the RA group, the pSS group and the normal group were significantly different. The expression levels of PT, FBG, FDP and D-D in the RA group were all greater than those in the pSS group and the control group. The expression level of PT in the pSS group was greater than that in the control group. The expression levels of PT, FBG, FDP and D-D in the RA group were all greater than those in the pSS group and the control group. The expression level of PT in the pSS group was greater than that in the control group. Analysis of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that, in contrast to those in the normal group, the area under the curve (AUC) of PT in the RA group were 0.638, the AUC of FBG was 0.899, the AUC of FDP was 0.866, and the AUC of D-D was 0.919. The AUC of the combined diagnosis of RA by coagulation indicators was greater than that of the individual detection of each indicator. Compared with that in the normal group, the AUC of PT in the pSS group was 0.618 (P=0.025), and the AUC of TT was 0.645 (P=0.006). The AUC of the combined diagnosis of coagulation indicators for pSS was greater than that of the individual detection of each indicator. Higher D-D in RA patients was significantly linked to higher hs-CRP, CCP, and RF, while higher FBG was significantly linked to higher hs-CRP, ESR, RF, and CCP. Correlation analysis revealed that in the RA group, PT, INR, FBG, FDP, and D-D were positively correlated with CRP and ESR, whereas TT was negatively correlated with CRP and ESR. FBG, FDP and D-D in the pSS group were positively correlated with CRP and ESR. In addition, the coagulation indicators in the RA group were positively correlated with the immune indicators, whereas in the pSS group, they were partially negatively correlated, both of which were significant. In addition, the coagulation indicators in the RA group were positively correlated with the immune indicators, whereas in the pSS group, they were partially negatively correlated, both of which were significant. In patients with pSS, FBG and FDP are positively correlated with hs-CRP, and APTT and FBG are positively correlated with the ESR.

Conclusion: Compared with those of pSS, PT, FBG, FDP and D-D have greater reference value for the early diagnosis of RA and the determination of disease severity and can be used as important predictive indicators for the confirmed diagnosis of RA.

Urinary biomarkers in the early diagnosis of diabetic kidney disease and diabetic retinopathy

Brankica Terzic — 2025-12-13

Introduction/Aim

Urinary biomarkers are increasingly recognized as important indicators of renal injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and some may also serve as early predictors of microvascular complications. Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common microvascular complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure. Although microalbuminuria is the established early marker of renal injury, its limited sensitivity and specificity necessitate novel urinary biomarkers for earlier detection. This study aimed to assess whether urinary type IV collagen, transferrin, and liver-type fatty acid–binding protein (L-FABP) could serve as early biomarkers of DKD and to evaluate their association with diabetic retinopathy.

Methods

Eighty T2DM patients were divided into two groups: normoalbuminuric (≤30 mg/day) and microalbuminuric (30–300 mg/day). Ten healthy individuals served as controls. All participants were older than 18 years, had diabetes duration >1 year, and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >60 ml/min/1.73 m². Urinary concentrations of type IV collagen, transferrin, and L-FABP were measured in 24-hour and first-morning urine samples using ELISA. Statistical analyses included group comparisons, correlation testing, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve assessment.

Results

Urinary levels of all biomarkers were negligible in controls but significantly higher in microalbuminuric compared with normoalbuminuric patients (p < 0.05). Type IV collagen showed the highest diagnostic accuracy (90.4%) for early DKD. All biomarkers correlated positively with DKD, while urinary transferrin was additionally associated with diabetic retinopathy

Conclusion

Urinary type IV collagen, transferrin, and L-FABP are promising early biomarkers of diabetic kidney disease, demonstrating superior diagnostic potential to albuminuria. Moreover, urinary transferrin may serve as a noninvasive marker for early detection of diabetic retinopathy, supporting its role in monitoring microvascular complications in T2DM

Correlation analysis of serum FGF9, Sestrin 2 and HBDH with the severity of sepsis

Jian He — 2025-11-15

Objective: To explore the correlation between serum fibroblast growth factor 9(FGF9), Sestrin2 and hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (HBDH) and the severity of sepsis, and to analyze the predictive value of FGF9, Sestrin2 and HBDH for clinical outcome.

Methods: A retrospective examination of 125 patients with sepsis admitted to our institution between May 2022 and May 2025 was carried out. According to the severity of the disease, There were 50 cases in the septic shock group and 75 cases in the sepsis group. According to the clinical outcomes of the patients, they were divided into a death group of 103 cases and a survival group of 22 cases. Observe the levels of serum FGF9, Sestrin2 and HBDH in each group. Analysis of the relationships between FGF9, Sestrin2, HBDH, and the severity of sepsis was done using the Spearman correlation coefficient model. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, the factors influencing the prognosis of patients with sepsis were investigated. FGF9, Sestrin2, and HBDH were evaluated for their prognostic usefulness for the prognosis of sepsis patients using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results: Compared with the sepsis group, The level of FGF9 in the septic shock group was lower [(122.41±21.45) pg/mL vs (145.36±23.68) pg/mL], while the levels of Sestrin2 and HBDH were both higher [(15.75±2.34) ng/mL] vs (8.36 + 0.93) ng/mL, (232.14-34.77) U/L vs (166.25 + 24.85) U/L], the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). Compared with the survival group, The level of FGF9 in the death group was lower [(112.05±20.61) pg/mL vs (133.25±22.14) pg/mL], while the levels of Sestrin2 and HBDH were both higher [(19.25±2.85)ng/mL] vs (12.42 + 2.33) ng/mL, (261.25-37.25) U/L vs (204.25 + 32.18) U/L]. Spearman correlation coefficient analysis showed that FGF9 was negatively correlated with the severity of sepsis (P<0.05), whereas the degree of sepsis was positively connected with both Sestrin2 and HBDH (P<0.05). Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II), procalcitonin, FGF9, Sestrin2, and HBDH are risk factors that impact the prognosis of sepsis patients, according to multivariate logistics regression analysis (P<0.05). The results of ROC curve analysis showed that the combined detection of FGF9, Sestrin2 and HBDH had a better predictive effect on the prognosis of patients with sepsis (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The amount of FGF9 in septic shock patients is comparatively low, while the levels of Sestrin2 and HBDH are relatively high. As the severity of the disease increases, the level of FGF9 gradually decreases, while the levels of Sestrin2 and HBDH gradually increase, which have a certain correlation with the severity of the disease. The prognosis of sepsis patients can be ascertained by measuring the levels of FGF9, Sestrin2, and HBDH.

serum level of IgA, IgG, IgM, CA125, CEA, migration inhibitory factor-related protein 14 (MRP14), stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP-1), and C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) in gastric cancer after treatment

Ying Huang — 2025-12-23

Objective: The current study was undertaken to assess the effects of the treatment on ( IgA, IgG, IgM, CA125, CEA, migration inhibitory factor-related protein 14 (MRP14), stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP-1), and C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) in patients with advanced gastric cancer.

Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 100 patients with gastric cancer were recruited after excluding 8 ineligible cases and assigned to receive either oxaliplatin (reference group) or the SOX regimen (observation group) via random number table method at a ratio of 1:1, with 50 patients in each group. The primary clinical endpoint was clinical efficacy, and secondary endpoints included immune function, tumor markers, and chemotherapy toxicities.

Results: The SOX regimen was associated with significantly higher clinical efficacy versus oxaliplatin monotherapy, as indicated by the higher disease control rate and objective remission rate (P<0.05). The SOX regimen provided better immunity recovery of patients versus oxaliplatin alone, evidenced by the higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), CD3+, CD4+ and natural killer (NK) cells and lower CD8+ levels in the observation group (P<0.05). The SOX regimen provided markedly higher anti-tumor benefits than oxaliplatin monotherapy, evinced by the significantly reduced serum concentrations of tumor markers, including cancer antigen 125 (CA125), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), migration inhibitory factor-related protein 14 (MRP14), stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP-1), and C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) (P<0.05). The SOX regimen was associated with a higher safety profile versus single oxaliplatin by reducing the occurrence of nausea and vomiting and leukopenia in patients (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The SOX regimen provides a viable treatment alternative for advanced gastric cancer management with favorable clinical efficacy. It enhances immune function, reduces tumor marker concentrations and toxic side effects of chemotherapy, and offers substantial prognostic benefits.

The influence of serum Sterol Sulfotransferase, ANGPTL8, and SDC1 on liver function in patients with intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy

Qixin Wang — 2026-01-21

[Objective] To explore the relationships between serum Sterol Sulfotransferase, Recombinant Angiopoietin Like Protein 8 (ANGPTL8), and Recombinant Syndecan (SDC1) and liver function in patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), as well as their influence on perinatal outcomes.

[Methods] The control group consisted of 200 healthy pregnant women who had physical tests over the same time period, while the study group consisted of 210 ICP patients who were admitted to our hospital between June 2023 and December 2024. The study group's and the control group's serum Sterol Sulfotransferase, ANGPTL8, SDC1, and liver function markers were compared. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlations between the levels of serum Sterol Sulfotransferase, ANGPTL8, and SDC1 and various liver function indicators. The patients in the study group were divided into a poor outcome group (86 patients) and a good outcome group (124 patients) according to perinatal outcomes. Serum Sterol Sulfotransferase, ANGPTL8, and SDC1 levels were examined between the groups with negative and positive outcomes. The factors predicting unfavorable perinatal outcomes in patients with ICPs were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

[Results] Despite having a lower serum Sterol Sulfotransferase level, the study group had higher levels of ANGPTL8 and SDC1 than the control group. P<0.05 indicated that the differences were statistically significant. The study group's levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were considerably higher than the control group's (P<0.05). The findings of the Pearson correlation analysis showed that while the levels of ANGPTL8 and SDC1 were positively connected with the levels of AST, ALT, and ALP (P<0.05), the level of serum Sterol Sulfotransferase was adversely connected with these levels. Compared to the group that experienced a positive outcome, the unfavorable outcome group's serum Sterol Sulfotransferase level was lower, whereas SDC1 and ANGPTL8 levels were greater than those in the group with favorable results. Decreased serum Sterol Sulfotransferase levels (≤23 μmol/L), increased ANGPTL8 levels (≥650 pg/mL), and poor perinatal outcomes were associated with elevated SDC1 levels (≥53 ng/mL) in patients with ICP (P<0.05).

[Conclusion] Serum Sterol Sulfotransferase, ANGPTL8 and SDC1 are closely related to liver function and perinatal outcomes in patients with ICP. As the level of serum Sterol Sulfotransferase decreases and the levels of ANGPTL8 and SDC1 increase, it can lead to aggravated liver function impairment in patients with ICP, and it leads to adverse perinatal outcomes.

Integrated inflammation–immune–matrix remodeling biomarkers for diagnosis and stage stratification of primary laryngeal cancer

Kaisheng Lin — 2026-01-23

Background: aryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is characterized by complex interactions among systemic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Circulating biomarkers reflecting these biological processes may provide valuable tools for disease detection and stratification; however, their integrated diagnostic value in primary LSCC remains insufficiently defined.

Methods: We conducted a case–control study including 50 treatment-naïve LSCC patients and 50 healthy controls. Levels of YKL-40, soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in serum were quantified using ELISA. Systemic inflammation was evaluated via the CRP/albumin ratio and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves assessed the diagnostic performance of individual and combined biomarkers, and associations with tumor stage were analyzed according to the AJCC 8th edition.

Results: LSCC patients exhibited significantly higher serum levels of YKL-40 (112.6 ± 28.4 vs. 54.3 ± 15.7 ng/mL), suPAR (4.32 ± 0.98 vs. 2.15 ± 0.61 ng/mL), and MMP-9 (386.5 ± 82.3 vs. 201.7 ± 56.9 ng/mL), along with increased CRP/Alb ratio (0.186 ± 0.072 vs. 0.062 ± 0.028) and NLR (3.21 ± 1.04 vs. 1.68 ± 0.52) (all P < 0.001), compared to healthy controls. ROC analysis demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy for individual biomarkers (AUC values 0.74 to 0.85), while MMP-9 showed the highest individual performance (AUC = 0.85). An integrated multivariate model combining YKL-40, suPAR, MMP-9, CRP/Alb ratio, and NLR achieved superior diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.92), with 88.0% sensitivity and 90.0% specificity. Furthermore, advanced-stage patients had higher levels of YKL-40, suPAR, and MMP-9 than early-stage patients (P < 0.001), indicating a close association between biomarker expression and tumor progression.

Conclusions: An integrated panel of inflammation–immune–matrix remodeling biomarkers is markedly dysregulated in primary LSCC and demonstrates strong diagnostic and stage-stratification value. The combined biomarker model outperforms individual markers, supporting its utility in clinical evaluation and risk assessment.

Clinical Biochemical Significance of STAT6, ERG, and miR-647 Expression in Prostate Cancer: Associations With Tumor Aggressiveness and Patient Prognosis

Xin Hong — 2026-01-23

Background: Reliable molecular indicators that can facilitate early detection and prognosis prediction in prostate cancer are still insufficient. Although Transcription 6 (STAT6), ERG, and microRNA-647 (miR-647) have recently been recognized as key participants in tumor-related signaling pathways, their specific biochemical functions in the context of prostate cancer have yet to be clearly defined. This study evaluated the expression profiles of STAT6 mRNA, ERG mRNA, and miR-647 in prostate cancer tissue and explored their associations with clinicopathological features and patient outcomes.

Methods: Surgical specimens were obtained from 70 patients, including both prostate cancer tissues and their corresponding adjacent non-tumorous counterparts. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to measure STAT6 mRNA, ERG mRNA, and miR-647 expression. The relationships between biomarker expression and clinical parameters—including age, tumor diameter, lymph node involvement, T stage, and pathological differentiation—were examined. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier curves with log-rank comparisons, while Spearman correlation analysis was employed to determine the associations among the examined molecular markers.

Results: Levels of STAT6 mRNA, ERG mRNA, and miR-647 were markedly higher in prostate cancer specimens than in the paired non-tumorous tissues (P<0.05). Elevated expression of these molecules corresponded to the presence of lymph node metastasis, higher T stage, and unfavorable histological differentiation, whereas no significant associations were observed with patient age or tumor dimensions. Patients with high STAT6, ERG, or miR-647 expression exhibited significantly reduced OS and PFS compared with low-expression groups (all P<0.05). miR-647 expression positively correlated with STAT6 mRNA (r=0.867) and ERG mRNA (r=0.724) (P<0.05).

Conclusion: STAT6, ERG, and miR-647 exhibit pronounced overexpression in prostate cancer, and their elevated levels are closely linked to more aggressive tumor behavior and unfavorable clinical outcomes. Their coordinated dysregulation suggests a potential molecular axis involved in prostate cancer progression. These molecular indicators have the potential to enhance biochemical risk stratification and support more refined molecular assessments in routine clinical settings.

Tenascin-C, presepsin (sCD14-ST), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as complementary circulating biomarkers for sepsis-associated organ dysfunction and 28-day all-cause mortality: a biomarker-enriched prognostic model

Yuxiang Xie — 2026-02-23

Background: Sepsis is characterized by dysregulated host responses with subsequent organ dysfunction. Conventional biomarkers (e.g., procalcitonin) incompletely reflect tissue injury and immune activation. We evaluated the clinical laboratory value of circulating Tenascin-C (TNC), presepsin (sCD14-ST), and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as complementary biomarkers of organ dysfunction severity and short-term prognosis in sepsis.
Methods: This retrospective observational study enrolled 103 adult ICU patients fulfilling Sepsis-3 criteria (June 2023–June 2025). Peripheral blood was collected within 12 h of ICU admission. Serum TNC was measured by ELISA; sCD14-ST was quantified by chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay; NLR was calculated from routine blood counts. Associations with organ dysfunction were assessed using Spearman correlation with SOFA scores. Independent associations with 28-day all-cause mortality were examined using multivariable logistic regression. Predictive performance of a clinical baseline model (age, SOFA, PCT) versus a biomarker-enriched model (baseline + TNC, sCD14-ST, NLR) was evaluated by ROC analysis.
Results: TNC, sCD14-ST, and NLR were higher in septic shock than sepsis and were elevated in non-survivors versus survivors (all P < 0.05). TNC showed the strongest correlation with SOFA (r = 0.466, P < 0.001), followed by sCD14-ST (r = 0.352, P < 0.001) and NLR (r = 0.299, P = 0.002). In multivariable analysis, TNC, sCD14-ST, and NLR remained independently associated with 28-day all-cause mortality. The biomarker-enriched model improved discrimination compared with the baseline model (AUC 0.928 vs. 0.867), with higher sensitivity (84.4% vs. 71.9%).
Conclusions: Admission TNC, sCD14-ST, and NLR capture complementary biochemical dimensions of sepsis (tissue injury, innate immune activation, and immune imbalance) and improve risk stratification for organ dysfunction and 28-day all-cause mortality when added to routine clinical variables. These findings support a pragmatic, laboratory-based multimarker approach for early prognostic assessment in sepsis. Keywords: Tenascin-C; Presepsin (sCD14-ST); Sepsis-associated organ dysfunction; Biomarker-based risk stratification; 28-day all-cause mortality.

Effects of Nutritional Intervention on Insulin Resistance–Associated Inflammatory Biomarkers and Gene Polymorphisms in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Jiayu Li — 2026-01-26

Background: Insulin resistance is a central biochemical abnormality in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and is closely linked to chronic low-grade inflammation. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and adiponectin (APN), play key roles in metabolic dysregulation during pregnancy. This study investigated the effects of nutritional intervention on insulin resistance–related inflammatory biomarkers and their gene polymorphisms in pregnant women with GDM.

Methods: In this retrospective comparative cohort study, 400 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM at Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center between October 2023 and December 2024 were enrolled and assigned to a conventional treatment group (CT, n = 200) or a nutritional intervention group (NC, n = 200). Both groups received standard glycemic management, while the NC group additionally underwent individualized nutritional intervention. Serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and APN were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and polymorphisms of the corresponding genes were analyzed using fluorescence quantitative PCR. Glycemic and lipid parameters were evaluated concurrently. Clinical efficacy and pregnancy outcomes were assessed as secondary endpoints.

Results: The genotype distributions of TNF-α, IL-6, and APN showed no significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05). Baseline inflammatory, glycemic, and lipid indices were comparable between groups. After intervention, both groups demonstrated significant improvements in inflammatory markers, blood glucose, and lipid profiles compared with baseline (P < 0.05). Notably, post-treatment levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly lower, while APN levels were more favorably regulated in the NC group compared with the CT group (P < 0.05). The NC group also exhibited superior metabolic control and a lower incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusion: Nutritional intervention significantly improves insulin resistance–associated inflammatory and metabolic profiles in pregnant women with GDM, independent of TNF-α, IL-6, and APN gene polymorphisms. These findings highlight the biochemical benefits of nutritional modulation in attenuating inflammation and improving metabolic homeostasis in GDM.

Biochemical Alterations in Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Urinary Biomarkers Associated With Renal Damage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Rui Zhang — 2026-01-16

Background: Renal damage is a major complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is closely linked to biochemical disturbances involving inflammation, oxidative stress, and renal tubular injury. However, the biochemical signatures that differentiate SLE patients with and without renal involvement remain insufficiently characterized. To evaluate the biochemical profiles of inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and urinary renal-injury biomarkers in SLE patients with and without renal damage, and to explore their associations with microbial alterations.

Methods: Sixty-four SLE patients were classified into a renal damage group (n = 36; positive urine protein) and an SLE-only group (n = 28; negative urine protein). Serum cytokines (TGF-β, IL-4, IL-17, IL-1β) and oxidative stress indicators (SOD, T-AOC, MDA) were quantified using ELISA. Urinary microprotein, microglobulin, and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) were used as biochemical markers of renal injury. Oral and intestinal microbial profiles were analyzed by sequencing, and correlations between biochemical markers and microbial alterations were assessed.

Results: SLE patients with renal damage showed significantly elevated urinary microprotein, microglobulin, and NAG (all p < 0.001). Inflammatory cytokines were markedly increased in the renal damage group (TGF-β, IL-4, IL-17, IL-1β; all p < 0.05), whereas oxidative stress capacity was significantly reduced (SOD, T-AOC, MDA; all p < 0.05). Several microbial taxa correlated positively or negatively with key biochemical markers, suggesting potential metabolic-immune interactions contributing to renal injury.

Conclusions: Renal damage in SLE is characterized by distinct biochemical abnormalities involving intensified inflammation, impaired antioxidant defenses, and elevated urinary renal-injury biomarkers. These biochemical changes, together with specific microbial shifts, may contribute to the progression of SLE-related renal impairment and hold diagnostic value for early biochemical screening.

Cardiometabolic parameters and novel hematological indices in women with migraine

Aleksandra Klisic — 2026-01-04

Objective: The pathophysiological aspect of migraine has not been fully elucidated. It is assumed that inflammation is at the root of this disease. The goal of the research is to examine cardiometabolic and novel hematological indices in patients with migraine.

Methods: A total of 50 women diagnosed with migraine were included in the study. Women were recruited during pain-free periods between pain attacks. The control group consisted of 25 age-matched healthy women. The MIDAS score (Migraine Disability Assessment score) was calculated.

Results: Women with migraine had higher levels of uric acid (P=0.045) and higher activity of transaminases, AST (P<0.001) and ALT (P=0.003). Significantly lower numbers of neutrophils and RDW-CV (%), and higher platelet count (PLT) and PCT were shown in subjects with migraine. The derived hematological parameters, i.e., NLR, dNLR, M-GLR, and PDW/PCT, were significantly lower in the group of women with migraine compared to the control group, while PNR was significantly higher in the migraine group. Among the examined hematological indicators, PNR showed an excellent diagnostic accuracy (AUC=0.727), while other parameters (RDW, PLT, neutrophils, PDW/PCT, NLR, dNLR, M-GLR) showed good diagnostic accuracy (0.600<AUC<0.700). The largest number of women suffering from migraine (52.9%) had a MIDAS score of 11-20. Creatinine showed good diagnostic accuracy in predicting high MIDAS score (AUC=0.678).

Conclusion: Women suffering from migraine have less favorable cardiometabolic status in comparison to healthy women. Blood count parameters and calculated indexes have good diagnostic accuracy for migraine. These parameters are cost-effective and easily available.

MTHFR Gene Polymorphisms and Their Biochemical Associations with Serum Vitamin D and IL-17 in Ulcerative Colitis

Guang Chen — 2026-01-15

Background: Disturbances in homocysteine metabolism and immune-inflammatory pathways may contribute to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) plays a central biochemical role in homocysteine remethylation, and its genetic variants may influence downstream biomarkers such as vitamin D and interleukin-17 (IL-17). This study examined the associations of three MTHFR polymorphisms (rs110298, rs132981, rs167281) with UC susceptibility, disease characteristics, and related biochemical markers.

Patients and methods: A total of 124 UC patients and 128 healthy controls were enrolled. Genotyping of MTHFR SNPs was performed by PCR amplification followed by ligase detection reaction. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was measured using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, and IL-17 levels were quantified by ELISA. Associations between MTHFR genotypes, UC onset, disease location, severity, and biochemical markers were statistically evaluated.

Results: All polymorphisms conformed to Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The rs110298 GG genotype and rs132981 TT genotype were significantly more frequent in UC patients than controls (P < 0.05), whereas rs167281 showed no association with UC. Both rs110298 and rs132981 were linked to UC disease location and severity (P < 0.05). UC patients exhibited significantly reduced serum vitamin D and elevated IL-17 levels compared with controls (P < 0.05). Importantly, rs110298 (AG/GG) and rs132981 (TT) genotypes were associated with lower vitamin D and higher IL-17 concentrations in UC patients (P < 0.05), indicating a biochemical effect of MTHFR variants on inflammatory and immunomodulatory pathways.

Conclusions: MTHFR polymorphisms rs110298 and rs132981 are significantly associated with UC susceptibility and clinical phenotype and exert measurable biochemical effects on serum vitamin D and IL-17 levels. These findings highlight the potential value of MTHFR-related pathways as biomarkers for disease characterization and as mechanistic contributors to UC-related immune dysregulation.

Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase and Amylase in Severe Acute Pancreatitis: A Clinical Biochemistry–Based Evaluation

Jie Zheng — 2026-01-30

Summary

Background: Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is characterized by extensive acinar-cell injury, metabolic dysregulation, and systemic inflammatory activation. Reliable biochemical markers for early risk stratification remain limited. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and amylase (AMY), routinely measured enzymes reflecting cellular damage and pancreatic exocrine dysfunction, may provide prognostic value. To evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum LDH and AMY in identifying SAP and predicting short-term outcomes.

Methods: This retrospective study included 200 patients with acute pancreatitis. Serum LDH and AMY were measured on admission using standardized clinical chemistry assays with internal quality control. Patients were categorized as MAP, MSAP, or SAP, and SAP cases were further stratified into good and poor 2-week prognosis groups. Logistic regression and ROC analyses were used to determine the predictive value of LDH and AMY.

Results: LDH and AMY levels increased significantly with disease severity (P<0.05). Both biomarkers were independent predictors of SAP (LDH OR=1.644; AMY OR=1.670) and poor prognosis (LDH OR=1.684; AMY OR=1.730). Combined LDH+AMY demonstrated superior predictive accuracy for SAP (AUC=0.854) and short-term poor prognosis (AUC=0.884), outperforming individual markers.

Conclusions: Serum LDH and AMY are clinically valuable biochemical indicators for early identification of SAP and prediction of short-term outcomes. Their combined use significantly enhances diagnostic accuracy, supporting their integration into early biochemical risk assessment models.

Circulating lncRNA DRAIC as a Potential Serum Biomarker for Predicting Lymphatic and Vascular Spread in Pancreatic Cancer

Ying Che — 2026-03-05

Background: Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its aggressive behavior and poor prognosis, largely due to delayed diagnosis and early dissemination. Identifying reliable serum biomarkers could enhance early detection and risk stratification. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been recognized as regulators of tumor biology, however, the clinical and biochemical relevance of lncRNA DRAIC in pancreatic cancer has not been fully elucidated.

Methods: Serum samples were obtained from 100 patients diagnosed with pathologically confirmed pancreatic cancer and 100 age- and sex-matched controls. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was employed to quantify the circulating DRAIC expression levels. We analyzed the associations between serum DRAIC levels and clinicopathological characteristics, including vascular involvement and lymph node metastasis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to assess the diagnostic and predictive performance of DRAIC. Paired serum samples obtained before and after surgical resection were additionally analyzed.

Results: Serum DRAIC expression was significantly elevated in patients with pancreatic cancer compared with controls. ROC analysis demonstrated robust diagnostic potential (AUC = 0.943). Elevated DRAIC levels were significantly associated with lymph node metastasis and vascular involvement. DRAIC showed strong predictive performance for lymph node metastasis (AUC = 0.906), whereas its predictive value for vascular involvement was moderate. Notably, serum DRAIC levels were significantly reduced following surgical resection.

Conclusion: Circulating lncRNA DRAIC is markedly dysregulated in pancreatic cancer and demonstrates potential utility as a serum-based biochemical biomarker, particularly for evaluating lymph node metastasis. These findings provide a basis for further mechanistic studies and validation in larger cohorts.

Biochemical Monitoring–Guided Clinical Management Improves Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Profiles in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Yafang Luo — 2026-01-13

Background: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is strongly linked to dysregulated inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. However, the biochemical impact of applying these biomarkers to guide clinical management remains unclear. This study evaluated whether inflammation- and oxidative stress–based biochemical monitoring can optimize treatment responses and improve clinical outcomes in SSNHL.

Methods: A total of 102 patients with SSNHL were randomly allocated to either a routine-management group or a biomarker-guided management group. Serial serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were quantified by ELISA before and after intervention. Hearing thresholds and quality-of-life indices were assessed concurrently.

Results: Compared with routine care, biomarker-guided clinical management resulted in significantly greater reductions in CRP (12.33±1.08 vs. 18.76±1.62 mg/L), IL-6 (10.41±1.59 vs. 15.07±1.82 pg/mL), TNF-α (1.67±0.18 vs. 2.86±0.34 ng/mL), MDA (2.16±0.36 vs. 2.83±0.41 μmol/L), and SOD (1.82±0.15 vs. 2.40±0.22 KU/L) (all P < 0.001). These biochemical improvements were accompanied by larger decreases in air-conduction thresholds and better psychological, physical, general health, and social function scores. The incidence of treatment-related complications was also lower in the biomarker-guided group (5.88% vs. 21.57%).

Conclusion: Biochemical monitoring of inflammation and oxidative stress pathways provides a structured and mechanism-oriented framework for managing SSNHL. Integrating serial CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, MDA, and SOD measurements into clinical decision-making can improve pathophysiological control, promote hearing recovery, and reduce adverse events. These results underscore the importance of biochemical biomarkers as actionable indicators for optimizing SSNHL management.

Serum sCD40L and Galectin-3 in the prognosis prediction of patients with acute ischemic stroke

Zhiqin Chen — 2025-11-17

[Objective] To explore the value of serum soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) and galectin-3 (galectin-3) for predicting the therapeutic effect and prognosis of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

[Methods] 180 AIS patients who were admitted to the hospital between March 2023 and March 2025 were chosen to serve as research participants. All patients received emergency treatment with tenalplase (TNK-tPA) combined with Xuesaitong. Based on the therapeutic impact, patients were split into two groups: an effective group and an ineffective group. The levels of serum sCD40L and galectin-3 in the two groups before treatment and 4 weeks after treatment were detected and compared. Following discharge, all patients were monitored for three months, and based on their modified RANKIN scale (mRS) score, those with a good prognosis and those with a bad outlook were divided into two groups. Utilizing multivariate logistic regression analysis, the risk factors impacting poor prognosis and inadequate treatment in AIS patients were examined. Serum levels of sCD40L and Galectin-3 were analyzed using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to determine their prognostic value for poor prognosis and ineffective treatment in AIS patients.

[Results] Among the 180 research subjects, 146 were effectively treated (effective group), and 34 were ineffective (ineffective group). There were 142 patients with a good prognosis and 38 patients with a poor prognosis, with an incidence of poor prognosis of 21.11%. After four weeks of treatment, serum levels of sCD40L and Galectin-3 were lower in the successful group than in the unsuccessful group (P<0.05). Serum levels of sCD40L and galectin-3 were both greater in the group with a poor prognosis than in the group with a favorable one (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that AIS patients with high serum levels of galectin-3 and sCD40L were at risk for both insufficient treatment and a poor outcome (P<0.05). The areas under the curve (AUCs) of serum Calectin-3 and sCD40L for predicting treatment ineffectiveness in AIS patients were 0.665 and 0.691, respectively, according to the results of the ROC curve analysis; the corresponding specificities were 70.08% and 77.51%, and the corresponding sensitivities were 62.53% and 62.58%. The AUC for the combined prediction of ineffective treatment in AIS patients by serum Calectin-3 and sCD40L was 0.784, and the specificity and sensitivity were 65.18% and 81.25%, respectively. Serum Galectin-3 and sCD40L had respective AUCs of 0.774 and 0.838 for predicting a bad prognosis in AIS patients; their respective specificities were 67.58% and 75.36%, and their respective sensitivities were 75.06% and 80.04%. The combined prediction of serum Galectin-3 and sCD40L for the poor prognosis of AIS patients was not good. The AUC was 0.919, with a specificity and sensitivity of 60.05% and 90.63%, respectively.

[Conclusion] Both the sCD40L level and the serum Galectin-3 level have some prognostic power for poor prognosis and ineffective treatment in AIS patients, and the combined detection of these two indicators can significantly improve the predictive efficacy.

The predictive value of serum ox-LDL and 25-(OH)-D levels for cerebral edema in patients with hypertensive cerebral hemorrhage

Chao Xu — 2025-11-15

[Objective] To analyze the predictive value of serum oxidation-modified low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D[25-(OH)-D] levels before minimally invasive hematoma evacuation in patients with hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH) for cerebral edema.

[Methods] 300 patients with HICH in our hospital from August 2022 to August 2024 were selected as research subjects. Patients were divided into a high-level ox-LDL group (ox-LDL≥50 μg/dL) and a low-level ox-LDL group (ox-LDL<50 μg/dL) according to their preoperative serum ox-LDL level. The patients were separated into two groups based on the amount of serum 25-(OH)-D: high-level 25-(OH)-D (25-(OH)-D≥30 ng/mL) and low-level 25-(OH)-D (25-(OH)-D<30 ng/mL). The incidence of cerebral edema within 48 hours after surgery was compared among the groups. Following minimally invasive hematoma evacuation in patients with HICH, the predictive value of preoperative serum ox-LDL and 25-(OH)-D levels for cerebral edema was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

[Results] The hematoma volume varied in statistically meaningful ways, fibrinogen level and incidence of cerebral edema among patients with different serum ox-LDL and 25-(OH)-D levels (P<0.05). The results of point–bisenteric correlation analysis revealed that the occurrence of cerebral edema in HICH patients was positively correlated with the serum ox-LDL level (r=0.455, P<0.05) and negatively correlated with the serum 25-(OH)-D level (r=-0.534, P<0.05). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that there was a negative correlation between the serum ox-LDL level and the 25-(OH)-D level (r=-0.444, P<0.05). The areas under the curve (AUCs) of preoperative serum ox-LDL, 25-(OH)-D alone, and combined detection for predicting cerebral edema following minimally invasive hematoma evacuation in patients with HICH were 0.777, 0.768, and 0.839, respectively, according to the results of the ROC curve analysis. The AUC of combined detection was the largest.

[Conclusion] Before minimally invasive hematoma evacuation in patients with HICH, the serum ox-LDL level was high, and the 25-(OH)-D level was low. Preoperative serum ox-LDL and 25-(OH)-D levels have high predictive value for cerebral edema after minimally invasive hematoma evacuation in patients with HICH.

Correlation analysis of serum CHI3L1, HMGB1 and CD62E detection with the prognosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children

Hui Yang — 2026-03-16

[Objective] To evaluate the clinical value of serum Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1), high mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1), and CD62E detection for determining the severity and prognosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children.

[Methods] A total of 476 children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae who were diagnosed and treated at this hospital from January 2023 to March 2025 were selected as the Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection group. The healthy control group consisted of 120 kids who had hospital examinations over the same time period. Serum CHI3L1, HMGB1, and CD62E levels were examined between the Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection group and the healthy control group. To investigate the risk factors for a bad outcome in kids infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed. Serum CHI3L1, HMGB1, and CD62E levels were investigated in relation to Mycoplasma pneumoniae severity and their predictive power for a poor outcome.

[Results] HMGB1, CD62E, and CHI3L1 serum levels were significantly greater in the Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection group than in the healthy control group (P<0.05), and they increased as Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection severity increased (P<0.05). The proportion of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae with pleural effusion, the proportion of children with a treatment course of ≥7 days, the white blood cell count, the duration of antibacterial drug use, and the levels of serum CHI3L1, HMGB1 and CD62E in the poor prognosis group were significantly greater than those in the good prognosis group (P<0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were seen in CRP levels, age, or sex (P>0.05). Elevated serum CHI3L1, HMGB1, and CD62E levels were found to be independent risk factors for the prognosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae by multivariate analysis (P<0.05). The levels of serum CHI3L1, HMGB1 and CD62E have relatively high efficacy in predicting the poor prognosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae patients. The sensitivity of the combined detection of the three was 97.9%, the specificity was 90.2%, and the area under the curve was 0.785, which was significantly greater than that of the individual detection of CHI3L1, HMGB1 and CD62E (Z=3.257, 3.429, 4.650, P<0.05).

[Conclusion] The levels of serum CHI3L1, HMGB1 and CD62E are indicators reflecting the severity of Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The combined detection method has high efficacy in predicting the poor prognosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae patients.

PLANT-BASED SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE SUPPLEMENTATION IN THE ATHLETE POPULATION

Olina Dudašova Petrovičova — 2026-01-05

Physical exercise significantly influences the redox balance, with its intensity, duration, and type affecting the production of free radicals, including reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. An excess of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress. Elite athletes, due to rigorous training and often insufficient rest, are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress, which can negatively affect their health and sports performance. Plant-based superoxide dismutase (SOD), combined with gliadin isolated from wheat, is a relatively new dietary supplement known for its antioxidant properties. Aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of SOD/gliadin supplementation among athletes. We examined the impact of this supplementation on redox status, inflammatory markers, indicators of muscle damage, and sports performance. Overall, the analysis of the data indicated some beneficial effects on all observed aspects of athletes' health and performance. The effects of supplementation appear to depend on the type of sport, the athlete's training status, and the design of the supplementation study. However, very few studies have been published on this topic; therefore, further research is needed to clarify the potential benefits of SOD/gliadin supplementation for athletes. Future studies should include a larger number of participants and implement controlled conditions with standardized dosage regimens, enabling more robust, comparable, and reliable outcomes.