A better understanding of genetic bases of growth regulation is essential for bivalve breeding,which is helpful to improve the yield of the commercially important bivalves.While previous studies have identified some c...A better understanding of genetic bases of growth regulation is essential for bivalve breeding,which is helpful to improve the yield of the commercially important bivalves.While previous studies have identified some candidate genes accounting for variation in growth-related traits through genotype-phenotype association analyses,seldom of them have verified the functions of these putative,growth-related genes beyond the genomic level due to the difficulty of culturing commercial bivalves under laboratory conditions.Fortunately,dwarf surf clam Mulinia lateralis can serve as a model organism for studying marine bivalves given its short generation time,the feasibility of being grown under experimental conditions and the availability of genetic and biological information.Using dwarf surf clam as a model bivalve,we characterize E2F3,a gene that has been found to account for variation in growth in scallops by a previous genome-wide association study,and verify its function in growth regulation through RNA interference(RNAi)experiments.For the first time,E2F3 in dwarf surf clam,which is termed as MulE2F3,is characterized.The results reveal that dwarf surf clams with MulE2F3 knocked down exhibit a reduction in both shell size and soft-tissue weight,indicating the functions of MulE2F3 in positively regulating bivalve growth.More importantly,we demonstrate how dwarf surf clam can be used as a model organism to investigate gene functions in commercial bivalves,shedding light on genetic causes for variation in growth to enhance the efficiency of bivalve farming.展开更多
Model organisms have long been important in biology and medicine due to their specific characteristics. Amphibians, especially Xenopus, play key roles in answering fundamental questions on developmental biology, regen...Model organisms have long been important in biology and medicine due to their specific characteristics. Amphibians, especially Xenopus, play key roles in answering fundamental questions on developmental biology, regeneration, genetics, and toxicology due to their large and abundant eggs, as well as their versatile embryos, which can be readily manipulated and developed in vivo. Furthermore, amphibians have also proven to be of considerable benefit in human disease research due to their conserved cellular developmental and genomic organization. This review gives a brief introduction on the progress and limitations of these animal models in biology and human disease research, and discusses the potential and challenge of Microhyla fissipes as a new model organism.展开更多
The ascidian Ciona intestinalis is a model organism of developmental and evolutionary biology and may provide orucial clues concerning two fundamental matters, namely, how chordates originated from the putative deuter...The ascidian Ciona intestinalis is a model organism of developmental and evolutionary biology and may provide orucial clues concerning two fundamental matters, namely, how chordates originated from the putative deuterostome ancestor and how advanced chordates originated from the simplest chordates. In this paper, a whole-life-span culture of C. intestinalis was conducted. Fed with the diet combination of dry Spirulina, egg yolk, Dicrateria sp., edible yeast and weaning diet for shrimp, C. intestinalis grew up to average 59 mm and matured after 60 d cultivation. This culture process could be repeated using the artificially cultured mature ascidians as material. When the fertilized eggs were maintained under 10, 15, 20, 25 ℃, they hatched within 30 h, 22 h, 16 h and 12 h 50 min respectively experiencing cleavage, blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation, tailbud stage and tadpole stage, The tadpole larvae were characterized as typical but simplified chordates because of their dorsal nerve cord, notochord and primordial brain. After 8-24 h freely swimming, the tadpole larvae settled on the substrates and metamorphosized within 1-2 d into filter feeding sessile juvenile ascidians. In addition, unfertilized eggs were successfully dechorionated in filtered seawater containing 1% Tripsin, 0.25% EDTA at pH of 10.5 within 40 min. After fertilization, the dechorionated eggs developed well and hatched at normal hatching rate. In conclusion, this paper presented feasible methodology for rearing the tadpole larvae of C. intestinalis into sexual maturity under controlled conditions and detailed observations on the embryogenesis of the laboratory cultured ascidians, which will facilitate developmental and genetic research using this model system.展开更多
Rare neurological diseases,while individually are rare,collectively impact millions globally,leading to diverse and often severe neurological symptoms.Often attributed to genetic mutations that disrupt protein functio...Rare neurological diseases,while individually are rare,collectively impact millions globally,leading to diverse and often severe neurological symptoms.Often attributed to genetic mutations that disrupt protein function or structure,understanding their genetic basis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and targeted therapies.To investigate the underlying pathogenesis of these conditions,researchers often use non-mammalian model organisms,such as Drosophila(fruit flies),which is valued for their genetic manipulability,cost-efficiency,and preservation of genes and biological functions across evolutionary time.Genetic tools available in Drosophila,including CRISPR-Cas9,offer a means to manipulate gene expression,allowing for a deep exploration of the genetic underpinnings of rare neurological diseases.Drosophila boasts a versatile genetic toolkit,rapid generation turnover,and ease of large-scale experimentation,making it an invaluable resource for identifying potential drug candidates.Researchers can expose flies carrying disease-associated mutations to various compounds,rapidly pinpointing promising therapeutic agents for further investigation in mammalian models and,ultimately,clinical trials.In this comprehensive review,we explore rare neurological diseases where fly research has significantly contributed to our understanding of their genetic basis,pathophysiology,and potential therapeutic implications.We discuss rare diseases associated with both neuron-expressed and glial-expressed genes.Specific cases include mutations in CDK19 resulting in epilepsy and developmental delay,mutations in TIAM1 leading to a neurodevelopmental disorder with seizures and language delay,and mutations in IRF2BPL causing seizures,a neurodevelopmental disorder with regression,loss of speech,and abnormal movements.And we explore mutations in EMC1 related to cerebellar atrophy,visual impairment,psychomotor retardation,and gain-of-function mutations in ACOX1 causing Mitchell syndrome.Loss-of-function mutations in ACOX1 result in ACOX1 deficiency,characterized by very-long-chain fatty acid accumulation and glial degeneration.Notably,this review highlights how modeling these diseases in Drosophila has provided valuable insights into their pathophysiology,offering a platform for the rapid identification of potential therapeutic interventions.Rare neurological diseases involve a wide range of expression systems,and sometimes common phenotypes can be found among different genes that cause abnormalities in neurons or glia.Furthermore,mutations within the same gene may result in varying functional outcomes,such as complete loss of function,partial loss of function,or gain-of-function mutations.The phenotypes observed in patients can differ significantly,underscoring the complexity of these conditions.In conclusion,Drosophila represents an indispensable and cost-effective tool for investigating rare neurological diseases.By facilitating the modeling of these conditions,Drosophila contributes to a deeper understanding of their genetic basis,pathophysiology,and potential therapies.This approach accelerates the discovery of promising drug candidates,ultimately benefiting patients affected by these complex and understudied diseases.展开更多
MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are important regulators in gene expression.The dysregulation of miRNA expression is widely reported in the transformation from physiological to pathological states of cells.A large number of differen...MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are important regulators in gene expression.The dysregulation of miRNA expression is widely reported in the transformation from physiological to pathological states of cells.A large number of differentially expressed miRNAs(DEMs)have been identified in various human cancers by using high-throughput technologies,such as microarray and miRNAseq.Through mining of published studies with high-throughput experiment information,the database of DEMs in human cancers(dbDEMC)was constructed with the aim of providing a systematic resource for the storage and query of the DEMs.Here we report an update of the dbDEMC to version 3.0,which contains two-fold more data entries than the second version and now includes also data from mice and rats.The dbDEMC 3.0 contains 3268 unique DEMs in 40 different cancer types.The current datasets for differential expression analysis have expanded to 9 generalized categories.Moreover,the current release integrates functional annotations of DEMs obtained by using experimentally validated targets.The annotations can be of great benefit to the intensive analysis of the roles of DEMs in cancer.In summary,dbDEMC 3.0 provides a valuable resource for characterizing molecular functions and regulatory mechanisms of DEMs in human cancers.The dbDEMC 3.0 is freely accessible at https://www.biosino.org/dbDEMC.展开更多
Eusocial bumble and honey bees are important pollinators for global ecology and the agricultural economy.Although both the bumble and honey bees possess similar and host-restricted gut microbiota,they differ in aspect...Eusocial bumble and honey bees are important pollinators for global ecology and the agricultural economy.Although both the bumble and honey bees possess similar and host-restricted gut microbiota,they differ in aspects of morphology,autonomy,physiology,behavior,and life cycle.The social bee gut bacteria exhibit host specificity that is likely a result of long-term co-evolution.The unique life cycle of bumblebees is key for the acquisition and development of their gut microbiota,and affects the strain-level diversity of the core bacterial species.Studies on bumblebee gut bacteria show that they retain less functional capacity for carbohydrate metabolism compared with that of the honeybee.We discuss the potential roles of the bumblebee gut microbiota against pathogenic threats and the application of host-specific probiotics for bumblebees.Given the advantages of the bumblebee microbiome,including the simple structure and host specificity,and the ease of manipulating bumblebee colonies,we propose that bumblebees may provide a valuable system for understanding the general principles of host-microbe interactions,gut-brain axis,and vertical transmission.展开更多
Comprehending the diversity of the regenerative potential across metazoan phylogeny represents a fundamental challenge in biology. Invertebrates like Hydra and planarians exhibit amazing feats of regeneration, in whic...Comprehending the diversity of the regenerative potential across metazoan phylogeny represents a fundamental challenge in biology. Invertebrates like Hydra and planarians exhibit amazing feats of regeneration, in which an entire organism can be restored t^om minute body segments. Vertebrates like teleost fish and amphibians can also regrow large sections of the body. While this regenerative capacity is greatly attenuated in mammals, there are portions of major organs that remain regenerative. Regardless of the extent, there are common basic strategies to regeneration, including activation of adult stem cells and proliferation of differentiated cells. Here, we discuss the cellular features and molecular mechanisms that are involved in regeneration in different model organisms, including 14ydra, planarians, zebrafish and newts as well as in several mammalian organs.展开更多
The aquatic ferns of the genus Azolla are nitrogen-fixing plants that have great potentials in agricultural production and environmental conservation. Azolla in many aspects is qualified to serve as a model organism f...The aquatic ferns of the genus Azolla are nitrogen-fixing plants that have great potentials in agricultural production and environmental conservation. Azolla in many aspects is qualified to serve as a model organism for genomic studies because of its importance in agriculture, its unique position in plant evolution, its symbiotic relationship with the N2-fixing cyanobacterium, Anabaena azollae, and its moderate-sized genome. The goals of this genome project are not only to understand the biology of the Azolla genome to promote its applications in biological research and agriculture practice but also to gain critical insights about evolution of plant genomes. Together with the strategic and technical improvement as well as cost reduction of DNA sequencing, the deciphering of their genetic code is imminent.展开更多
Objective:Under the guidance of model organism Caenorhabditis elegans with fine olfactory system,small molecular metabolites sensitive to high dose radiation were screened as biomarkers of acute radiation-induced inju...Objective:Under the guidance of model organism Caenorhabditis elegans with fine olfactory system,small molecular metabolites sensitive to high dose radiation were screened as biomarkers of acute radiation-induced injury,and their metabolic pathways were elucidated by enrichment.Methods:Rats were irradiated with 12 Gyγ-rays to establish an acute radiation injury model,and their urine was fingerprinted using UPLC-Q/TOF-MS.Further,under the guidance of Caenorhabditis elegans as olfactory-sensitive model organism,the key differential metabolites in urine were found as biomarkers of radiation-induced injury.Results:After rats were irradiated,the radiation injury urine showed a difference from control(sham-irradiated)urine,which could be distinguished by Caenorhabditis elegans.Based on metabolomics analysis,a total of 21 key differential metabolites with P value<0.05 and fold change either>2 or<0.5 were identified,which can be used as sensitive and reliable biomarkers of radiation-induced injury.The pathways were further enriched,and it was found that disorders of five metabolic pathways,including citric acid cycle and amino acid metabolism,play an important role in radiation-induced injury.Conclusions:Due to radiation injury,the metabolites in urine will change significantly.The study on biomarkers guided by model organism Caenorhabditis elegans provides a new perspective to explain the details of metabolic disorders,and also provides experimental basis for the development of new biological dosimeters.展开更多
An ever-growing number of resources on model organisms have emerged with the continued development of sequencing technologies. In this paper, we review 13 databases of model organisms, most of which are reported by th...An ever-growing number of resources on model organisms have emerged with the continued development of sequencing technologies. In this paper, we review 13 databases of model organisms, most of which are reported by the National Institutes of Health of the United States（NIH; http：//www.nih.gov/science/models/）. We provide a brief description for each database, as well as detail its data source and types, functions, tools, and availability of access. In addition,we also provide a quality assessment about these databases. Significantly, the organism databases instituted in the early 1990s––such as the Mouse Genome Database（MGD）, Saccharomyces Genome Database（SGD）, and Fly Base––have developed into what are now comprehensive, core authority resources. Furthermore, all of the databases mentioned here update continually according to user feedback and with advancing technologies.展开更多
The increasing global concern regarding plastic pollution has prompted the research into the consequences of microplastics(MPs)on aquatic ecosystems.Fairy shrimp Branchinella kugenumaensis are freshwater planktonic or...The increasing global concern regarding plastic pollution has prompted the research into the consequences of microplastics(MPs)on aquatic ecosystems.Fairy shrimp Branchinella kugenumaensis are freshwater planktonic organisms that have existed for 250 million years.This study aimed to uncover the harmful effects of MPs,with a particular focus on their size variations(0.1,1,and 5μm),on the fairy shrimp.We focused on how MPs could significantly affect the survival and growth of fairy shrimp.Notably,larger MPs,especially those measuring 5μm,caused higher mortality rates and hindered the growth compared to smaller ones.The impact of MPs continued even subsequent to depuration in clean water.The accumulation of MPs within the intestines of fairy shrimp resulted in intestinal blockages,disrupted excretory functions,and harmed intestinal epithelial cells.Examinations at the histological,cellular,and molecular levels showed that exposure to MPs triggered necroptosis in intestinal cells,accompanied by alterations in pathways related to transcription,translation,digestion,energy metabolism,and neurological functions.Furthermore,the effects of MPs on gene expression and pathways varied based on particle size,with larger MPs having a more significant effect and causing a strong response in xenobiotic biodegradation and metabolism pathways.We suggest that the increasing severity of MPs pollution could pose a significant threat to the survival of fairy shrimp.This study provided vital insights into the complex relationship between microplastics and aquatic organisms,and highlighted the urgent need to address the potential devastating impact of plastic pollution on freshwater ecosystems.Additionally,due to their rapid growth,strong reproductive capacity,sensitivity,and ease of cultivation,fairy shrimp hold the potential candidate to serve as a model organism for studying the effects of MPs and other pollutants on freshwater ecosystems.展开更多
A low-viscosity emulsion of crude oil in water can be believed to be the bulk of a flow regime in a pipeline.To differentiate which crude oil would and which would not counter the blockage of flow due to gas hydrate f...A low-viscosity emulsion of crude oil in water can be believed to be the bulk of a flow regime in a pipeline.To differentiate which crude oil would and which would not counter the blockage of flow due to gas hydrate formation in flow channels,varying amount of crude oil in water emulsion without any other extraneous additives has undergone methane gas hydrate formation in an autoclave cell.Crude oil was able to thermodynamically inhibit the gas hydrate formation as observed from its hydrate stability zone.The normalized rate of hydrate formation in the emulsion has been calculated from an illustrative chemical affinity model,which showed a decrease in the methane consumption（decreased normalized rate constant） with an increase in the oil content in the emulsion.Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy（FTIR） of the emulsion and characteristic properties of the crude oil have been used to find the chemical component that could be pivotal in selfinhibitory characteristic of the crude oil collected from Ankleshwar,India,against a situation of clogged flow due to formation of gas hydrate and establish flow assurance.展开更多
To achieve the purpose of applying design patterns which are various in ldnd and constant in changing in MDA from idea and application, one way is used to solve the problem of pattern disappearance which occurs at the...To achieve the purpose of applying design patterns which are various in ldnd and constant in changing in MDA from idea and application, one way is used to solve the problem of pattern disappearance which occurs at the process of pattern instantiation, to guarantee the independence of patterns, and at the same time, to apply this process to multiple design pattems. To solve these two problons, the modeling method of design pattern traits based on meta-models is adopted, i.e., to divide the basic operations into atoms in the metamodel tier and then combine the atoms to complete design pattem units meta-models withtout business logic. After one process of conversion, the purpose of making up various pattem traits meta-model and dividing business logic and pattern logic is achieved.展开更多
The adsorb model of formic acid on NaX derived from TPD was discussed. It was showed that the adsorb sites were various exposed framework O2- centers bearing different basic intensity and spatial resistance. The h-pea...The adsorb model of formic acid on NaX derived from TPD was discussed. It was showed that the adsorb sites were various exposed framework O2- centers bearing different basic intensity and spatial resistance. The h-peak was attributed to O2- near S-III in supercage and l-peak to O2- near S-II in beta-cage of faujusite zeolite. The model can explain the experimental results. Meanwhile, a relative standard of basic intensity based on TPD of formic acid was founded.展开更多
In this paper, the studies show that the framework of the original organizational models based on the philosophy view is constructed. The driving forces are also expatiated in the paper. Matching with the time and spa...In this paper, the studies show that the framework of the original organizational models based on the philosophy view is constructed. The driving forces are also expatiated in the paper. Matching with the time and space in which the organization exists, fitted with the extra environment, making the organization take effect and properly controlling the important potential factors for the organizations further are the four driving forces development. The supporting pillars are cooperation in the competition, communication, negotiation and proper equal culture environment. At last, the researches point out that organization is a process, while organizational model is only a tool for us to realize the world.展开更多
The objective of this research is to show a new methodology for modeling phenomena present in complex economic systems. The case study we analyzed is the adoption of open organization model among firms operating in a ...The objective of this research is to show a new methodology for modeling phenomena present in complex economic systems. The case study we analyzed is the adoption of open organization model among firms operating in a particular industry. A firm with an open system model creates and captures value taking advantage not only from the internal resource but also from external. The organization could approach to open model acquisition using different focus： external focus namely looking out of its boundary, acting and reacting to competitor innovation, costumers＇ changing, demand growth, or internal focus remaining inside its boundary improving its best capabilities ignoring what happened outside （Vagnani, Moran, ＆ Simoni, 2010）. The actors involved are firms, customers and suppliers linked together through a business to business model. The methodology is based on an Object-Oriented Analysis Field Model that allows to intuitively describe systems characterized by a large number of objects that interact, as in this case of a system composed by different organizational entities. The system simulation allows to analyze how the actors influence the acquisition and diffusion of the open organization model. This approach permits the generation of different classes of objects to represent all actors involved in the evolution of the system and to define the dynamics that determine their interaction. The solution of the model can be approximated using the Mean-Field analysis technique （Kurtz, 1978）, following the results proposed in Bobbio, Gribaudo, and Yelek （2008）. A qualitative result is illustrated in order to show the applicability of the proposed methodology and to emphasize its relevant features： flexible modeling approach, capacity of solving complex systems and output management facilities. The presented model is comprehensive and its scope is wide; it could be used to study the behavior of enterprises changing model in many different scenarios and situations. In future works quantitative results will be given, and different situations will be analyzed.展开更多
This paper discusses an organizational model to be used for both conventional and virtual organizations. The model deals with variable relationships within an organization and provides a framework for overall organiza...This paper discusses an organizational model to be used for both conventional and virtual organizations. The model deals with variable relationships within an organization and provides a framework for overall organizational design that may include relationship among different design variables and external relationship with environment. Based on the researches of virtual organization, this paper also illustrates the new model of organization in the real world such as Beijing 2008 Olympic games and Dongfeng Automobile group.展开更多
People continue to recognize the important role of Chinese medicine in the treatment of diseases,and there is an urgent need to clarify the mechanism of Chinese medicine.Because of the multi-target and multi-component...People continue to recognize the important role of Chinese medicine in the treatment of diseases,and there is an urgent need to clarify the mechanism of Chinese medicine.Because of the multi-target and multi-component characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine,it is difficult to elaborate from a single perspective.As a high-quality animal model,Caenorhabditis elegans with the characteristics of small size and fast reproduction,has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine activity experiments.In this article,Caenorhabditis elegans,as model organisms used to screen the active components of traditional Chinese medicine were reviewed.展开更多
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 （HIV-1） Vpr induces cell death in mammalian and fssion yeast cells, suggesting that Vpr may affect a conserved cellular process. It is unclear, however, whether Vpr-induced yeast ...Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 （HIV-1） Vpr induces cell death in mammalian and fssion yeast cells, suggesting that Vpr may affect a conserved cellular process. It is unclear, however, whether Vpr-induced yeast cell death mimics Vpr-mediated apoptosis in mammalian cells. We have recently identified a number of Vpr suppressors that not only suppress Vpr-induced cell death in fission yeast, but also block Vpr-induced apoptosis in mammalian cells. These findings suggest that Vpr-induced cell death in yeast may resemble some of the apoptotic processes of mammalian cells. The goal of this study was to develop and validate a fission yeast model system for future studies of apoptosis. Similar to Vpr-induced apoptosis in mammalian cells, we show here that Vpr in fission yeast promotes phosphatidylserine externalization and induces hyperpolarization of mitochondria, leading to changes of mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, Vpr triggers production of reactive oxygen species （ROS）, indicating that the apoptotic-like cell death might be mediated by ROS. Interestingly, Vpr induces unique morphologic changes in mitochondria that may provide a simple marker for measuring the apoptotic-like process in fission yeast. To verify this possibility, we tested two Vpr suppressors （EF2 and Hspl6） that suppress Vpr-induced apoptosis in mammalian cells in addition to a newly identified Vpr suppressor （Skpl）. All three proteins abolished cell death mediated by Vpr and restored normal mitochondrial morphology in the yeast cells. In conclusion, Vpr-induced cell death in fission yeast resembles the mammalian apoptotic process. Fission yeast may thus potentially be used as a simple model organism for the future study of the apoptotic-like process induced by Vpr and other proapoptotic agents.展开更多
Model invertebrate organism Caenorhabditis elegans has become an ideal model to unravel the complex processes of memory. C. elegans has three simple forms of memory： memory for thermosensation, memory for chemosensat...Model invertebrate organism Caenorhabditis elegans has become an ideal model to unravel the complex processes of memory. C. elegans has three simple forms of memory： memory for thermosensation, memory for chemosensation, and memory for mechanosensation. In the form of memory for mechanosensation, short-term memory, intermediate-term memory, and long-term memory have been extensively studied. The short-term memory and intermediate-term memory may occur in the presynaptic sensory neurons, whereas the long-term memory may occur in the postsynaptic interneurons. This review will discuss the recent progress on genetic and molecular regulation of memory in C. elegans.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U2106231)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFD2400303)the Key R&D Project of Shandong Province(No.2022 TZXD003).
文摘A better understanding of genetic bases of growth regulation is essential for bivalve breeding,which is helpful to improve the yield of the commercially important bivalves.While previous studies have identified some candidate genes accounting for variation in growth-related traits through genotype-phenotype association analyses,seldom of them have verified the functions of these putative,growth-related genes beyond the genomic level due to the difficulty of culturing commercial bivalves under laboratory conditions.Fortunately,dwarf surf clam Mulinia lateralis can serve as a model organism for studying marine bivalves given its short generation time,the feasibility of being grown under experimental conditions and the availability of genetic and biological information.Using dwarf surf clam as a model bivalve,we characterize E2F3,a gene that has been found to account for variation in growth in scallops by a previous genome-wide association study,and verify its function in growth regulation through RNA interference(RNAi)experiments.For the first time,E2F3 in dwarf surf clam,which is termed as MulE2F3,is characterized.The results reveal that dwarf surf clams with MulE2F3 knocked down exhibit a reduction in both shell size and soft-tissue weight,indicating the functions of MulE2F3 in positively regulating bivalve growth.More importantly,we demonstrate how dwarf surf clam can be used as a model organism to investigate gene functions in commercial bivalves,shedding light on genetic causes for variation in growth to enhance the efficiency of bivalve farming.
基金supported by a grant from the Key Programs of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(KJZD-EW-L13)2015 Western Light Talent Culture Project of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Y6C3021)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31471964)
文摘Model organisms have long been important in biology and medicine due to their specific characteristics. Amphibians, especially Xenopus, play key roles in answering fundamental questions on developmental biology, regeneration, genetics, and toxicology due to their large and abundant eggs, as well as their versatile embryos, which can be readily manipulated and developed in vivo. Furthermore, amphibians have also proven to be of considerable benefit in human disease research due to their conserved cellular developmental and genomic organization. This review gives a brief introduction on the progress and limitations of these animal models in biology and human disease research, and discusses the potential and challenge of Microhyla fissipes as a new model organism.
基金Project supported by the Hi-Tech Research and Development Pro-gram (863) of China (No. 2003AA603440) and the Knowledge In-novation Program from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (No.KZCX2-211)
文摘The ascidian Ciona intestinalis is a model organism of developmental and evolutionary biology and may provide orucial clues concerning two fundamental matters, namely, how chordates originated from the putative deuterostome ancestor and how advanced chordates originated from the simplest chordates. In this paper, a whole-life-span culture of C. intestinalis was conducted. Fed with the diet combination of dry Spirulina, egg yolk, Dicrateria sp., edible yeast and weaning diet for shrimp, C. intestinalis grew up to average 59 mm and matured after 60 d cultivation. This culture process could be repeated using the artificially cultured mature ascidians as material. When the fertilized eggs were maintained under 10, 15, 20, 25 ℃, they hatched within 30 h, 22 h, 16 h and 12 h 50 min respectively experiencing cleavage, blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation, tailbud stage and tadpole stage, The tadpole larvae were characterized as typical but simplified chordates because of their dorsal nerve cord, notochord and primordial brain. After 8-24 h freely swimming, the tadpole larvae settled on the substrates and metamorphosized within 1-2 d into filter feeding sessile juvenile ascidians. In addition, unfertilized eggs were successfully dechorionated in filtered seawater containing 1% Tripsin, 0.25% EDTA at pH of 10.5 within 40 min. After fertilization, the dechorionated eggs developed well and hatched at normal hatching rate. In conclusion, this paper presented feasible methodology for rearing the tadpole larvae of C. intestinalis into sexual maturity under controlled conditions and detailed observations on the embryogenesis of the laboratory cultured ascidians, which will facilitate developmental and genetic research using this model system.
基金supported by Warren Alpert Foundation and Houston Methodist Academic Institute Laboratory Operating Fund(to HLC).
文摘Rare neurological diseases,while individually are rare,collectively impact millions globally,leading to diverse and often severe neurological symptoms.Often attributed to genetic mutations that disrupt protein function or structure,understanding their genetic basis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and targeted therapies.To investigate the underlying pathogenesis of these conditions,researchers often use non-mammalian model organisms,such as Drosophila(fruit flies),which is valued for their genetic manipulability,cost-efficiency,and preservation of genes and biological functions across evolutionary time.Genetic tools available in Drosophila,including CRISPR-Cas9,offer a means to manipulate gene expression,allowing for a deep exploration of the genetic underpinnings of rare neurological diseases.Drosophila boasts a versatile genetic toolkit,rapid generation turnover,and ease of large-scale experimentation,making it an invaluable resource for identifying potential drug candidates.Researchers can expose flies carrying disease-associated mutations to various compounds,rapidly pinpointing promising therapeutic agents for further investigation in mammalian models and,ultimately,clinical trials.In this comprehensive review,we explore rare neurological diseases where fly research has significantly contributed to our understanding of their genetic basis,pathophysiology,and potential therapeutic implications.We discuss rare diseases associated with both neuron-expressed and glial-expressed genes.Specific cases include mutations in CDK19 resulting in epilepsy and developmental delay,mutations in TIAM1 leading to a neurodevelopmental disorder with seizures and language delay,and mutations in IRF2BPL causing seizures,a neurodevelopmental disorder with regression,loss of speech,and abnormal movements.And we explore mutations in EMC1 related to cerebellar atrophy,visual impairment,psychomotor retardation,and gain-of-function mutations in ACOX1 causing Mitchell syndrome.Loss-of-function mutations in ACOX1 result in ACOX1 deficiency,characterized by very-long-chain fatty acid accumulation and glial degeneration.Notably,this review highlights how modeling these diseases in Drosophila has provided valuable insights into their pathophysiology,offering a platform for the rapid identification of potential therapeutic interventions.Rare neurological diseases involve a wide range of expression systems,and sometimes common phenotypes can be found among different genes that cause abnormalities in neurons or glia.Furthermore,mutations within the same gene may result in varying functional outcomes,such as complete loss of function,partial loss of function,or gain-of-function mutations.The phenotypes observed in patients can differ significantly,underscoring the complexity of these conditions.In conclusion,Drosophila represents an indispensable and cost-effective tool for investigating rare neurological diseases.By facilitating the modeling of these conditions,Drosophila contributes to a deeper understanding of their genetic basis,pathophysiology,and potential therapies.This approach accelerates the discovery of promising drug candidates,ultimately benefiting patients affected by these complex and understudied diseases.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 91959106, 31871255, 9173131081827901)+1 种基金the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Grant No.XDB38030100)the Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology (Grant No. 2017SHZDZX01)
文摘MicroRNAs(miRNAs)are important regulators in gene expression.The dysregulation of miRNA expression is widely reported in the transformation from physiological to pathological states of cells.A large number of differentially expressed miRNAs(DEMs)have been identified in various human cancers by using high-throughput technologies,such as microarray and miRNAseq.Through mining of published studies with high-throughput experiment information,the database of DEMs in human cancers(dbDEMC)was constructed with the aim of providing a systematic resource for the storage and query of the DEMs.Here we report an update of the dbDEMC to version 3.0,which contains two-fold more data entries than the second version and now includes also data from mice and rats.The dbDEMC 3.0 contains 3268 unique DEMs in 40 different cancer types.The current datasets for differential expression analysis have expanded to 9 generalized categories.Moreover,the current release integrates functional annotations of DEMs obtained by using experimentally validated targets.The annotations can be of great benefit to the intensive analysis of the roles of DEMs in cancer.In summary,dbDEMC 3.0 provides a valuable resource for characterizing molecular functions and regulatory mechanisms of DEMs in human cancers.The dbDEMC 3.0 is freely accessible at https://www.biosino.org/dbDEMC.
基金This work was supported by the National Key R&D Pro-gram of China(Grant No.2019YFA0906500)National Natural Science Foundation of China Project 32170495.
文摘Eusocial bumble and honey bees are important pollinators for global ecology and the agricultural economy.Although both the bumble and honey bees possess similar and host-restricted gut microbiota,they differ in aspects of morphology,autonomy,physiology,behavior,and life cycle.The social bee gut bacteria exhibit host specificity that is likely a result of long-term co-evolution.The unique life cycle of bumblebees is key for the acquisition and development of their gut microbiota,and affects the strain-level diversity of the core bacterial species.Studies on bumblebee gut bacteria show that they retain less functional capacity for carbohydrate metabolism compared with that of the honeybee.We discuss the potential roles of the bumblebee gut microbiota against pathogenic threats and the application of host-specific probiotics for bumblebees.Given the advantages of the bumblebee microbiome,including the simple structure and host specificity,and the ease of manipulating bumblebee colonies,we propose that bumblebees may provide a valuable system for understanding the general principles of host-microbe interactions,gut-brain axis,and vertical transmission.
基金supported in part by the grants from the National Basic Research Program of China (Nos.MOST945300 and MOST944500 to TPZ)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.31172173 to TPZ)
文摘Comprehending the diversity of the regenerative potential across metazoan phylogeny represents a fundamental challenge in biology. Invertebrates like Hydra and planarians exhibit amazing feats of regeneration, in which an entire organism can be restored t^om minute body segments. Vertebrates like teleost fish and amphibians can also regrow large sections of the body. While this regenerative capacity is greatly attenuated in mammals, there are portions of major organs that remain regenerative. Regardless of the extent, there are common basic strategies to regeneration, including activation of adult stem cells and proliferation of differentiated cells. Here, we discuss the cellular features and molecular mechanisms that are involved in regeneration in different model organisms, including 14ydra, planarians, zebrafish and newts as well as in several mammalian organs.
基金supported by a NSF CAREER Award(DEB 0093012)supported by two grants from Chinese High-tech Program"863"of the Ministry of Science and Technology(2001AA231061 and 2002AA229021)
文摘The aquatic ferns of the genus Azolla are nitrogen-fixing plants that have great potentials in agricultural production and environmental conservation. Azolla in many aspects is qualified to serve as a model organism for genomic studies because of its importance in agriculture, its unique position in plant evolution, its symbiotic relationship with the N2-fixing cyanobacterium, Anabaena azollae, and its moderate-sized genome. The goals of this genome project are not only to understand the biology of the Azolla genome to promote its applications in biological research and agriculture practice but also to gain critical insights about evolution of plant genomes. Together with the strategic and technical improvement as well as cost reduction of DNA sequencing, the deciphering of their genetic code is imminent.
基金This work was supported by the grants from the National NaturalScience Foundation of China(Nos.81572969 and 81730086).
文摘Objective:Under the guidance of model organism Caenorhabditis elegans with fine olfactory system,small molecular metabolites sensitive to high dose radiation were screened as biomarkers of acute radiation-induced injury,and their metabolic pathways were elucidated by enrichment.Methods:Rats were irradiated with 12 Gyγ-rays to establish an acute radiation injury model,and their urine was fingerprinted using UPLC-Q/TOF-MS.Further,under the guidance of Caenorhabditis elegans as olfactory-sensitive model organism,the key differential metabolites in urine were found as biomarkers of radiation-induced injury.Results:After rats were irradiated,the radiation injury urine showed a difference from control(sham-irradiated)urine,which could be distinguished by Caenorhabditis elegans.Based on metabolomics analysis,a total of 21 key differential metabolites with P value<0.05 and fold change either>2 or<0.5 were identified,which can be used as sensitive and reliable biomarkers of radiation-induced injury.The pathways were further enriched,and it was found that disorders of five metabolic pathways,including citric acid cycle and amino acid metabolism,play an important role in radiation-induced injury.Conclusions:Due to radiation injury,the metabolites in urine will change significantly.The study on biomarkers guided by model organism Caenorhabditis elegans provides a new perspective to explain the details of metabolic disorders,and also provides experimental basis for the development of new biological dosimeters.
基金supported by the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences of China(Grant No.XDB13040500)
文摘An ever-growing number of resources on model organisms have emerged with the continued development of sequencing technologies. In this paper, we review 13 databases of model organisms, most of which are reported by the National Institutes of Health of the United States（NIH; http：//www.nih.gov/science/models/）. We provide a brief description for each database, as well as detail its data source and types, functions, tools, and availability of access. In addition,we also provide a quality assessment about these databases. Significantly, the organism databases instituted in the early 1990s––such as the Mouse Genome Database（MGD）, Saccharomyces Genome Database（SGD）, and Fly Base––have developed into what are now comprehensive, core authority resources. Furthermore, all of the databases mentioned here update continually according to user feedback and with advancing technologies.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.32371704,32373178)。
文摘The increasing global concern regarding plastic pollution has prompted the research into the consequences of microplastics(MPs)on aquatic ecosystems.Fairy shrimp Branchinella kugenumaensis are freshwater planktonic organisms that have existed for 250 million years.This study aimed to uncover the harmful effects of MPs,with a particular focus on their size variations(0.1,1,and 5μm),on the fairy shrimp.We focused on how MPs could significantly affect the survival and growth of fairy shrimp.Notably,larger MPs,especially those measuring 5μm,caused higher mortality rates and hindered the growth compared to smaller ones.The impact of MPs continued even subsequent to depuration in clean water.The accumulation of MPs within the intestines of fairy shrimp resulted in intestinal blockages,disrupted excretory functions,and harmed intestinal epithelial cells.Examinations at the histological,cellular,and molecular levels showed that exposure to MPs triggered necroptosis in intestinal cells,accompanied by alterations in pathways related to transcription,translation,digestion,energy metabolism,and neurological functions.Furthermore,the effects of MPs on gene expression and pathways varied based on particle size,with larger MPs having a more significant effect and causing a strong response in xenobiotic biodegradation and metabolism pathways.We suggest that the increasing severity of MPs pollution could pose a significant threat to the survival of fairy shrimp.This study provided vital insights into the complex relationship between microplastics and aquatic organisms,and highlighted the urgent need to address the potential devastating impact of plastic pollution on freshwater ecosystems.Additionally,due to their rapid growth,strong reproductive capacity,sensitivity,and ease of cultivation,fairy shrimp hold the potential candidate to serve as a model organism for studying the effects of MPs and other pollutants on freshwater ecosystems.
基金the financial assistance provided by University Grants Commission, New Delhi, India, under Special Assistance Program (SAP) to the Department of Petroleum Engineering, Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad, India
文摘A low-viscosity emulsion of crude oil in water can be believed to be the bulk of a flow regime in a pipeline.To differentiate which crude oil would and which would not counter the blockage of flow due to gas hydrate formation in flow channels,varying amount of crude oil in water emulsion without any other extraneous additives has undergone methane gas hydrate formation in an autoclave cell.Crude oil was able to thermodynamically inhibit the gas hydrate formation as observed from its hydrate stability zone.The normalized rate of hydrate formation in the emulsion has been calculated from an illustrative chemical affinity model,which showed a decrease in the methane consumption（decreased normalized rate constant） with an increase in the oil content in the emulsion.Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy（FTIR） of the emulsion and characteristic properties of the crude oil have been used to find the chemical component that could be pivotal in selfinhibitory characteristic of the crude oil collected from Ankleshwar,India,against a situation of clogged flow due to formation of gas hydrate and establish flow assurance.
文摘To achieve the purpose of applying design patterns which are various in ldnd and constant in changing in MDA from idea and application, one way is used to solve the problem of pattern disappearance which occurs at the process of pattern instantiation, to guarantee the independence of patterns, and at the same time, to apply this process to multiple design pattems. To solve these two problons, the modeling method of design pattern traits based on meta-models is adopted, i.e., to divide the basic operations into atoms in the metamodel tier and then combine the atoms to complete design pattem units meta-models withtout business logic. After one process of conversion, the purpose of making up various pattem traits meta-model and dividing business logic and pattern logic is achieved.
文摘The adsorb model of formic acid on NaX derived from TPD was discussed. It was showed that the adsorb sites were various exposed framework O2- centers bearing different basic intensity and spatial resistance. The h-peak was attributed to O2- near S-III in supercage and l-peak to O2- near S-II in beta-cage of faujusite zeolite. The model can explain the experimental results. Meanwhile, a relative standard of basic intensity based on TPD of formic acid was founded.
文摘In this paper, the studies show that the framework of the original organizational models based on the philosophy view is constructed. The driving forces are also expatiated in the paper. Matching with the time and space in which the organization exists, fitted with the extra environment, making the organization take effect and properly controlling the important potential factors for the organizations further are the four driving forces development. The supporting pillars are cooperation in the competition, communication, negotiation and proper equal culture environment. At last, the researches point out that organization is a process, while organizational model is only a tool for us to realize the world.
文摘The objective of this research is to show a new methodology for modeling phenomena present in complex economic systems. The case study we analyzed is the adoption of open organization model among firms operating in a particular industry. A firm with an open system model creates and captures value taking advantage not only from the internal resource but also from external. The organization could approach to open model acquisition using different focus： external focus namely looking out of its boundary, acting and reacting to competitor innovation, costumers＇ changing, demand growth, or internal focus remaining inside its boundary improving its best capabilities ignoring what happened outside （Vagnani, Moran, ＆ Simoni, 2010）. The actors involved are firms, customers and suppliers linked together through a business to business model. The methodology is based on an Object-Oriented Analysis Field Model that allows to intuitively describe systems characterized by a large number of objects that interact, as in this case of a system composed by different organizational entities. The system simulation allows to analyze how the actors influence the acquisition and diffusion of the open organization model. This approach permits the generation of different classes of objects to represent all actors involved in the evolution of the system and to define the dynamics that determine their interaction. The solution of the model can be approximated using the Mean-Field analysis technique （Kurtz, 1978）, following the results proposed in Bobbio, Gribaudo, and Yelek （2008）. A qualitative result is illustrated in order to show the applicability of the proposed methodology and to emphasize its relevant features： flexible modeling approach, capacity of solving complex systems and output management facilities. The presented model is comprehensive and its scope is wide; it could be used to study the behavior of enterprises changing model in many different scenarios and situations. In future works quantitative results will be given, and different situations will be analyzed.
文摘This paper discusses an organizational model to be used for both conventional and virtual organizations. The model deals with variable relationships within an organization and provides a framework for overall organizational design that may include relationship among different design variables and external relationship with environment. Based on the researches of virtual organization, this paper also illustrates the new model of organization in the real world such as Beijing 2008 Olympic games and Dongfeng Automobile group.
基金This work was financially supported by Scientific Research Fund Project of Education Department of Liaoning Province(LJKZ0960)Science Foundation of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University(GGJJ2021105).
文摘People continue to recognize the important role of Chinese medicine in the treatment of diseases,and there is an urgent need to clarify the mechanism of Chinese medicine.Because of the multi-target and multi-component characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine,it is difficult to elaborate from a single perspective.As a high-quality animal model,Caenorhabditis elegans with the characteristics of small size and fast reproduction,has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine activity experiments.In this article,Caenorhabditis elegans,as model organisms used to screen the active components of traditional Chinese medicine were reviewed.
文摘Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 （HIV-1） Vpr induces cell death in mammalian and fssion yeast cells, suggesting that Vpr may affect a conserved cellular process. It is unclear, however, whether Vpr-induced yeast cell death mimics Vpr-mediated apoptosis in mammalian cells. We have recently identified a number of Vpr suppressors that not only suppress Vpr-induced cell death in fission yeast, but also block Vpr-induced apoptosis in mammalian cells. These findings suggest that Vpr-induced cell death in yeast may resemble some of the apoptotic processes of mammalian cells. The goal of this study was to develop and validate a fission yeast model system for future studies of apoptosis. Similar to Vpr-induced apoptosis in mammalian cells, we show here that Vpr in fission yeast promotes phosphatidylserine externalization and induces hyperpolarization of mitochondria, leading to changes of mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, Vpr triggers production of reactive oxygen species （ROS）, indicating that the apoptotic-like cell death might be mediated by ROS. Interestingly, Vpr induces unique morphologic changes in mitochondria that may provide a simple marker for measuring the apoptotic-like process in fission yeast. To verify this possibility, we tested two Vpr suppressors （EF2 and Hspl6） that suppress Vpr-induced apoptosis in mammalian cells in addition to a newly identified Vpr suppressor （Skpl）. All three proteins abolished cell death mediated by Vpr and restored normal mitochondrial morphology in the yeast cells. In conclusion, Vpr-induced cell death in fission yeast resembles the mammalian apoptotic process. Fission yeast may thus potentially be used as a simple model organism for the future study of the apoptotic-like process induced by Vpr and other proapoptotic agents.
文摘Model invertebrate organism Caenorhabditis elegans has become an ideal model to unravel the complex processes of memory. C. elegans has three simple forms of memory： memory for thermosensation, memory for chemosensation, and memory for mechanosensation. In the form of memory for mechanosensation, short-term memory, intermediate-term memory, and long-term memory have been extensively studied. The short-term memory and intermediate-term memory may occur in the presynaptic sensory neurons, whereas the long-term memory may occur in the postsynaptic interneurons. This review will discuss the recent progress on genetic and molecular regulation of memory in C. elegans.
