Cripto-1 acts as a molecular bridge linking nodal to ALK4 via distinct structural domains.

The TGF-β family ligand Nodal is an essential regulator of embryonic development, orchestrating key processes such as germ layer specification and body axis formation through activation of SMAD2/3-mediated signaling. Significantly, this activation requires the co-receptor Cripto-1. However, despite their essential roles in embryogenesis, the molecular mechanism through which Cripto-1 enables Nodal to activate the SMAD2/3 pathway has remained elusive.

Improved Ammonia Synthesis and Energy Output from Zinc-Nitrate Batteries by Spin-State Regulation in Perovskite Oxides.

Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia (eNRA) is a promising route toward environmental sustainability and clean energy. However, its efficiency is often limited by the slow conversion of intermediates due to spin-forbidden processes. Here, we introduce a novel A-site high-entropy strategy to develop a new perovskite oxide (LaPrNdBaSr)CoO (LPNBSC) for eNRA.

Multi-omic insights into molecular mechanism and therapeutic targets in spinocerebellar ataxia type 7.

Recent advances in molecular science have significantly enlightened our mechanistic understanding of spinocerebellar ataxia type 7. To further close remaining gaps, we performed a multi-omics analysis using SCA7 mice. Entire brain tissue samples were collected from 12-week-old mice, and RNA sequencing, methylation analysis, and proteomic analysis were performed.

Associations between serum cytokine levels and postmenopausal depression in postmenopausal women with and without menopause hormone therapy.

Background: The etiology of depression involves many biological and environmental factors, among which the inflammatory process is an important contributor. However, the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines in postmenopausal depression is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the association between the serum concentrations of four pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α) and depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women who had been receiving menopause hormone therapy (MHT) for at least 6 months and postmenopausal women who had not received MHT.

Dual-Nano Composite Design with Grain Boundary Segregation for Enhanced Strength and Plasticity in CoCrNi-CuZr Thin Films.

Enhancing both strength and plasticity simultaneously in nanostructured materials remains a significant challenge. While grain refinement is effective in increasing strength, it typically leads to reduced plasticity due to localized strain. In this study, we propose a novel design strategy featuring a dual-nano composite structure with grain boundary segregation to enhance the deformation stability of nanostructured materials.