Glucose-Sensing Carbohydrate Response Element-Binding Protein in the Pathogenesis of Diabetic Retinopathy.

Glucose-sensing ChREBP and MondoA are transcriptional factors involved in the lipogenic, inflammatory, and insulin signaling pathways implicated in metabolic disorders; however, limited ocular studies have been conducted on these proteins. We aimed to investigate the potential role of ChREBP in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). We used diabetic human and mouse retinal cryosections analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Gut Bacteria Encode Reductases that Biotransform Steroid Hormones.

The metabolism of steroids by the gut microbiome affects hormone homeostasis, impacting host development, mental health, and reproductive functions. In this study, we identify the Δ-3-ketosteroid 5β-reductase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ isomerase, and Δ-3-ketosteroid reductase enzyme families encoded by common human gut bacteria. Through phylogenetic reconstruction and mutagenesis, We show that 5β-reductase and Δ-3-ketosteroid reductase have evolved to specialize in converting diverse 3-keto steroid hormones into their 5β- and Δ-reduced derivatives.

Neighborhood Social Vulnerability and Access to Expedited Partner Therapy Prescriptions: A Secret Shopper Audit Survey.

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) disproportionately impact populations with higher social vulnerability. Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT), which allows the treatment of partners without requiring a medical visit, reduces STI reinfection rates and expands treatment access for underserved groups. However, EPT remains underutilized, particularly in the electronic prescription era, which introduces logistical complexities.