PubMed Trending Research Digest — October 17, 2026

Automated digest · 98 articles · 15 research areas · October 17, 2026

Overview

Across this week’s set of studies, a dominant theme is immune modulation—especially via interferon pathways and targeted immune therapies. Multiple papers connect interferon signaling to tissue protection or immune regulation (e.g., mucosal IFN-λ limiting HSV-2 immunopathology; IRF7-driven cyclic interferon programs in hypothalamic tanycytes; and type I interferon–linked ISG15 programs in diabetic retinopathy). In parallel, real-world and mechanistic work on immunomodulators and biologics (from recurrent pericarditis with optimized anakinra discontinuation to CD20 depletion effects in MS) underscores how immune-targeted drugs can reshape systemic inflammation and disease trajectories beyond their primary targets.

A second major thread is precision and systems-level biology to improve prediction and therapeutic design. Cancer-focused studies emphasize biomarker refinement (e.g., exceptional responder analysis in HR+/HER2− breast cancer, DLL3 and CD8 TIL assessment for tarlatamab in LCNEC, and PSMA radiomics–augmented prognostication for [177Lu]Lu-PSMA). Complementing these, genomics and methodological advances (SV-PheWAS mapping, improved somatic variant detection benchmarking, and near-T2T genome insights into mutation hotspots) aim to make risk interpretation more complete and actionable. In parallel, several mechanistic “platform” efforts—AI for protein/enzyme design, improved AAV capsid separation, and multi-omics atlases (lung, muscle, nodules)—highlight a push toward reproducible, high-resolution biological maps.

Finally, the digest shows strong momentum in aging, ferroptosis/senescence, and tissue regeneration—often with explicit therapeutic angles. Studies link STING–NAD+–osteogenesis, endothelial senescence regulators (MTR4), and ferro-aging programs (NOX4/ACSL4/iron-chelation strategies; mito-ferroptosis in cancer) to functional decline and potential intervention points. Alongside this, neurocircuit and sleep/pain mechanism work (zona incerta analgesia via NTS; Drosophila sleep-pressure circuitry; dendritic computation for rule-based decisions) reflects continued progress from circuit-level understanding toward more personalized symptom control.

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Mucosal & Type I/III Interferon Immunity

IRF7 signalling in tanycytes controls brain-body-immune response across the ovarian cycle.

This study investigated how interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) signaling in tanycytes regulates brain–body immune responses across the ovarian cycle in mice and humans. Using single-cell transcriptomics to map mediobasal hypothalamic tanycytes and characterize sex-, estrous-cycle-, and diet-dependent interferon programs, the authors identified a cyclic interferon response in tanycytes and showed that IRF7 signaling controls the resulting immune communication. The work links a specific immune signaling pathway (IRF7) in a defined hypothalamic cell type (tanycytes) to physiological hormonal state, providing mechanistic insight into sex-specific immune regulation.

Nampoothiri S, Fernandois D, Journiac N et al. · Nature metabolism · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Interferon-λ inhibits immunopathology and boosts T cell-mediated immunity in a mouse model of mucosal viral infection.

The study examined how mucosal interferon-lambda (IFN-λ) modulates immune regulation and antiviral protection in a mouse model of genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. Mucosal IFN-λ delivery abrogated HSV-2-induced vaginal tissue immunopathology by drastically inhibiting IL-6 production and rescued local CD4+ T cell–dependent IFN-γ needed to prevent toxic megacolon. These findings support IFN-λ as a mucosal immunomodulatory strategy that can both limit inflammation and preserve protective T cell immunity during genital HSV-2 infection.

Feng E, Mansour A, Balint E et al. · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Gene Editing & Regenerative Cell Therapies

GBA1 Canada initiative (G-can), a pre-competitive, open science platform for GBA1 research.

GBA1 Canada (G-Can) was studied as a pre-competitive, open-science platform uniting basic, translational, and clinical researchers working on GBA1, the gene encoding lysosomal acid beta-glucocerebrosidase (GCase), in Canada and internationally. The initiative established and continuously expands shared biological, clinical, and analytical resources (including the C-BIG Repository) to reduce duplication and broaden access for the GBA1 research community. This open infrastructure is significant because it accelerates coordinated discovery and translation for GBA1-associated Parkinson’s disease and related lysosomal disorders by standardizing and sharing key datasets and materials.

Halder P, Chebon-Bore L, Sommerville EN et al. · Journal of Parkinson’s disease · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Edited HSPCs rescue frataxin deficiency and inflammation-driven multisystemic pathology in Friedreich’s ataxia mice.

The study tested whether ex vivo CRISPR/Cas9 excision of the GAA repeat expansion in intron 1 of the frataxin gene (FXN) in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) can correct disease biology in Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA) mouse models. A single infusion of gene-edited Sca1+ HSPCs (mPPL-001) into myeloablative humanized YG8JR mice produced durable engraftment, increased FXN expression, and corrected multiple inflammation-driven multisystemic pathologies across hematopoietic and FRDA-affected tissues. This provides preclinical evidence that targeted genome editing of the FXN mutation in HSPCs could offer a systemic, durable therapy for FRDA beyond symptomatic treatment.

Sivakumar A, Corl AN, Muñoz KJ et al. · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Neurofilament Light Chain and Mutant Huntingtin Across Huntington’s Disease Integrated Staging System Stages in Huntington Disease: A Cross-Sectional Multimodal Analysis.

This study developed an optimized iodixanol density gradient ultracentrifugation method to separate recombinant AAV (rAAV) capsids into empty, partial, and full populations with high resolution. The abstract provided is truncated, so the quantitative performance metrics (e.g., purity/enrichment and recovery) cannot be extracted from the text shown. Improved capsid-quality separation is scientifically and clinically significant because it can enhance gene therapy efficacy and safety by reducing empty/partial capsid impurities.

Pérez-Pérez J, Olmedo-Saura G, Puig Davi A et al. · Movement disorders : official journal of the Movement Disorder Society · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Cancer Precision Oncology & Biomarkers

Machine Learning Models Combining [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET Radiomics and Clinical Features to Predict Overall Survival for Metastatic Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer Treated with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA Radioligand Therapy.

This study developed and compared machine learning models to predict overall survival in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) treated with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA radioligand therapy using pre-treatment clinical and imaging features. Integrating [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET radiomics with clinical and biochemical variables, the models improved pretherapeutic prognostication and aimed to identify patients unlikely to benefit from [177Lu]Lu-PSMA RLT. Clinically, this supports the use of PSMA PET radiomics–based ML risk stratification to better select candidates for [177Lu]Lu-PSMA therapy and guide treatment planning.

Edouard L, Papillon L, Ferrer L et al. · European urology oncology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Perioperative enfortumab vedotin-pembrolizumab, gemcitabine-cisplatin-durvalumab, and dose-dense MVAC in cisplatin-eligible muscle-invasive bladder cancer: A benefit-risk Bayesian network meta-analysis.

This Bayesian network meta-analysis compared perioperative regimens for cisplatin-eligible muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) in the absence of head-to-head trials. Across phase III evidence identified up to March 2026, it evaluated enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab (EV+P), gemcitabine-cisplatin plus durvalumab (GC+Durva), and dose-dense MVAC (dd-MVAC) for event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and pathological complete response (pCR), using SUCRA rankings and RoB-2 risk-of-bias assessment. The results are intended to support benefit–risk decision-making for selecting perioperative therapy combinations in cisplatin-eligible MIBC.

Subiela JD, González-Padilla DA, Scilipoti P et al. · Urologic oncology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Neoadjuvant Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy Before Inferior Vena Cava Thrombectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Phase 2 Nonrandomized Clinical Trial.

This single-center prospective phase 2 nonrandomized trial studied neoadjuvant stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) delivered to inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombus in patients with newly diagnosed renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and Mayo level II to IV IVC tumor thrombus. The trial evaluated feasibility and safety and reported exploratory biomarker effects alongside clinical outcomes after SABR before nephrectomy and thrombectomy. If effective, this strategy could provide a local preoperative treatment option for a high-risk RCC subgroup with substantial perioperative risk and recurrence despite surgery.

Hannan R, Lin L, Assadi R et al. · JAMA oncology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Organ Preservation and Quality of Life After Total Neoadjuvant Treatment in Rectal Cancer.

This unplanned post hoc cohort study used data from two phase 2 rectal cancer trials (CAO/ARO/AIO-12 and CAO/ARO/AIO-16) to examine how organ preservation after total neoadjuvant treatment relates to quality of life and functional outcomes compared with total mesorectal excision (TME). The analysis focused on patient-reported and functional domains including bowel, urinary, sexual function, and other QOL measures in the context of watch-and-wait (WW) versus surgery. The findings are clinically important for counseling patients on long-term tradeoffs between organ preservation and standard TME after TNT.

Diefenhardt M, Fokas E, Kosmala R et al. · JAMA network open · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Selective estrogen receptor degraders and their effect on the breast cancer immune microenvironment.

The article reviewed how selective estrogen receptor degraders/downregulators (SERDs), including fulvestrant (faslodex), affect the breast cancer immune microenvironment, with emphasis on ERα (ESR1) biology and ESR1 hotspot mutations. It highlights that tumors with activating ESR1 mutations may retain partial sensitivity to fulvestrant but often require higher doses to inhibit mutant ERα, which can influence downstream transcriptional programs relevant to immune contexture. Clinically, this frames SERDs as not only endocrine agents but also modulators of tumor–immune interactions, informing future combination strategies and dosing considerations in ESR1-mutant disease.

Young KS, Fanning SW · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Multimodal assessment of exceptional responders refines subtyping-directed precision treatment in HR+/HER2- breast cancer.

The study analyzed multimodal data (transcriptomics, genomics, digital pathology, and clinical outcomes) from the FASCINATE-N trial (n=230) to refine subtype-directed precision treatment in locally advanced HR+/HER2− breast cancer, focusing on exceptional responders. In the SNF1 canonical luminal subtype, perineural invasion was associated with reduced endocrine therapy benefit, suggesting a need to refine subtyping and treatment assignment beyond the original four HR+/HER2− categories. This supports more granular, biomarker-informed stratification to improve pathologic complete response rates and guide precision therapy selection in HR+/HER2− breast cancer.

Xiao Y, Yang F, Qi YJ et al. · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Histopathologic features and subtypes of invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: A comprehensive review.

This comprehensive review studied the histopathologic spectrum of invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), focusing on major subtypes and their diagnostic, immunohistochemical, and molecular implications. It found that invasive cSCC includes many heterogeneous variants (e.g., acantholytic, sarcomatoid/spindle cell, clear cell, verrucous, adenosquamous, signet ring cell, lymphoepithelial, and others) that can be diagnostically challenging and may carry distinct clinical behavior. The significance is improved pathologic recognition and more accurate subtype classification, which can guide prognosis and downstream molecular/clinical decision-making.

Cazzato G, Harnisch K, Kalmykova A et al. · Histology and histopathology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Cancer risks associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2: Overview and management.

This narrative review summarized cancer risks and management considerations for individuals with germline pathogenic variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2, focusing on both canonical cancers (e.g., female breast and ovarian) and additional reported associations (e.g., prostate, pancreatic, and others). The abstract provided does not include specific risk estimates or management recommendations, so detailed conclusions cannot be stated from the excerpt alone. Clinically, consolidating BRCA1/2-associated cancer spectra and surveillance/management strategies supports risk-adapted care and informed genetic counseling.

Breen KE, Vashisth S, Liu YL · Cancer · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Immunotherapy & Cellular Therapy (CAR T/Bispecific/Antibodies)

Novel antibody-based regimens for large B-cell lymphoma: latest updates from the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting.

This narrative update summarized 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting advances for large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL), focusing on antibody-based regimens including tafasitamab (Fc-modified anti-CD19), polatuzumab vedotin (CD79b-directed antibody-drug conjugate), and CD20×CD3 bispecific antibodies. The key finding highlighted randomized evidence from the phase 3 frontMIND trial supporting tafasitamab plus lenalidomide with R-CHOP in newly diagnosed high-risk disease, alongside ongoing exploration of CD20×CD3 bispecific strategies (e.g., OLYMPIA-3). The clinical significance is an expanding, mechanism-diverse antibody toolkit for high-risk and relapsed/refractory LBCL that may improve outcomes across disease stages.

Luo G, Jiang H, Chen Z et al. · Journal of hematology & oncology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Radiopharmaceutical Therapy with [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE in Refractory Meningiomas: Results from the French Multicenter MELUTE Cohort.

This retrospective multicenter MELUTE cohort study assessed the efficacy and safety of [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE radiopharmaceutical therapy in patients with refractory meningiomas treated across 18 French centers. Patients received 7.4 GBq every 8 weeks for up to 4 cycles, and outcomes were analyzed in relation to clinical characteristics including WHO grade and prior treatments. The study helps consolidate real-world evidence for [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE dosing and performance in refractory meningioma, informing compassionate-use practice and future prospective trials.

Garabedian N, Zaragori T, Tabouret E et al. · Journal of nuclear medicine : official publication, Society of Nuclear Medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Loncastuximab and Rituximab in Elderly Unfit/Frail Patients With Previously Untreated Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.

This phase 2 LOTIS-9 trial studied loncastuximab tesirine plus rituximab (Lonca-R) in elderly unfit (cohort A) and frail (cohort B) patients with previously untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Lonca-R produced clinically meaningful responses with dosing adapted to response in a population largely ineligible for standard trials due to age and comorbidities. These findings support Lonca-R as a feasible, potentially effective chemo-sparing option for DLBCL patients who are elderly and medically unfit or frail.

Nair R, Kumar A, Chapman AE et al. · Blood advances · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Nivolumab-Ipilimumab for Localized Microsatellite Instability-High Gastric/Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma: The Phase 2 NEONIPIGA Nonrandomized Clinical Trial.

This report from the NEONIPIGA phase 2 French multicenter single-arm trial studied long-term outcomes of neoadjuvant nivolumab plus ipilimumab in patients with localized deficient mismatch repair (dMMR)/microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. Beyond previously reported pathological complete response (pCR), the study evaluated event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) as secondary endpoints with longer follow-up. These results help define the durability of benefit from checkpoint blockade in dMMR/MSI-H upper GI cancers and support risk-benefit discussions for neoadjuvant immunotherapy.

Samaille T, Henriques J, Tougeron D et al. · JAMA oncology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Clinicopathological Features of DLL3 Expression and T-Cell Infiltration in LCNEC: Insights From Pathology and Clinical Response to Tarlatamab.

This retrospective clinicopathological study evaluated DLL3 expression and CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and related these biomarkers to clinical response to the DLL3-targeted bispecific T-cell engager tarlatamab. It found that DLL3 positivity (defined as staining in ≥1% of tumor cells) and the degree of CD8+ T-cell infiltration were assessed for their clinical significance and association with tarlatamab efficacy. The significance is that it supports biomarker-driven prediction of response to tarlatamab in LCNEC, potentially guiding patient selection for DLL3-targeted immunotherapy.

Kaneko S, Furuya N, Sugiura Y et al. · Thoracic cancer · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Outcomes of ibrutinib plus lenalidomide combination in patients with large Bcell lymphoma refractory to or relapsing after CAR-T-cell therapy and who failed or were ineligible for bispecific antibodies: a multicenter real-world REALI-T study.

This multicenter real-world REALI-T study evaluated outcomes of the ibrutinib plus lenalidomide combination in patients with large B-cell lymphoma refractory to or relapsing after CAR-T-cell therapy and who failed or were ineligible for bispecific antibodies. The abstract provided no results, but the study’s focus was on post–CAR-T treatment effectiveness in a heavily pretreated population. Clinically, the findings (once available) would inform therapeutic sequencing and regimen selection for patients with limited options after CAR-T and bispecific antibody failure/ineligibility.

Rudebeck CJ, Fornecker LM, Guffroy B et al. · Haematologica · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Cord blood-derived natural killer cells engineered with a novel, highaffinity chimeric antigen receptor can eliminate acute myeloid leukemia cells with minimal C-type lectin-like molecule-1 expression.

Cord blood-derived NK cells were engineered with a novel high-affinity C-type lectin-like molecule 1 (CLL-1) CAR using an anti-CLL-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) 2-23 (higher affinity than M26) to test killing of CLL-1dim acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells in vitro. CAR NK cells transduced with the 2-23–derived CAR, but not the M26-derived CAR, eliminated CLL-1dim AML cells despite minimal CLL-1 expression. This supports using a higher-affinity CLL-1 CAR design to overcome antigen-low AML escape and improve the therapeutic robustness of CAR NK cell strategies.

Suga M, Kida S, Mizutani Y et al. · Haematologica · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

CAR T-cell activity for autoimmune diseases across EBMT centers: an international survey on behalf of the Autoimmune Diseases Working Party and the Cellular Therapy and Immunobiology Working Party.

An international survey across EBMT centers assessed CAR T-cell activity for autoimmune diseases, focusing on how treatment effects and patient enrollment differed across centers. The abstract was not available, so the specific findings and effect estimates cannot be determined from the provided text. Clinically, this type of multicenter analysis is important for identifying variability in CAR T performance and informing safer, more standardized autoimmune CAR T deployment.

Orofino G, Greco R, Badoglio M et al. · Haematologica · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Inflammation, Autoimmunity & Targeted Immunomodulation

Early Introduction and Prolonged Full-Dose Anakinra Reduce Recurrence Risk After Discontinuation in Recurrent Pericarditis: An International Multicenter Cohort.

This international multicenter retrospective cohort studied 185 adults with corticosteroid-dependent, colchicine-resistant recurrent pericarditis who achieved remission and then permanently discontinued anakinra after early introduction and prolonged full-dose treatment. The key finding was that early initiation and maintaining full-dose anakinra for a longer period before discontinuation reduced the risk of pericarditis recurrence after stopping therapy. Clinically, this supports a more durable anakinra treatment strategy to improve sustained remission in refractory recurrent pericarditis.

Malandrino D, Bettiol A, Andreis A et al. · Journal of the American Heart Association · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

IgM- and IgA-Enriched Polyclonal Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy in Sepsis: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study.

This single-center retrospective cohort study included 50 adults with sepsis or septic shock (Sepsis-3) treated between 2006 and 2010 to evaluate whether adjunctive IgM- and IgA-enriched polyclonal intravenous immunoglobulin (IgGAM) improves outcomes versus standard management alone. The key finding was an association between IgGAM therapy and improved clinical outcomes at 28 days (including ICU-related endpoints), with additional post hoc analyses stratified by the appropriateness of initial empiric antibiotic therapy. The clinical significance is that IgGAM may be a potentially beneficial adjunct in sepsis, particularly when antibiotic management is appropriate, though randomized confirmation is needed.

Yılmaz H, Tulunay M, Yılmaz AA · Journal of clinical medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

[Recommendations of the Groupe Francophone des Myélodysplasies (GFM) - Diagnostic approach and management of myelodysplastic syndromes, chronic myelomonocytic leukemias, and VEXAS syndrome].

This article provides Francophone Group for Myelodysplasias (GFM) national recommendations for the diagnostic approach and management of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), and VEXAS syndrome. It emphasizes integrated diagnosis using complete blood counts, bone marrow morphology, cytogenetics, and targeted gene sequencing panels, and it outlines surveillance for clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) and clonal cytopenias of undetermined significance (CCUS) with quantified progression risk (up to 10–30% over 10 years). These evidence-based guidelines standardize molecular testing and follow-up strategies to improve risk assessment and care pathways for patients with these clonal hematologic disorders.

Park S, Adès L, Kosmider O et al. · Bulletin du cancer · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Cumulative Disease Control with Upadacitinib in Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis-A 52-Week Multicenter Real-World Study: IL-AD (Italian Landscape Atopic Dermatitis).

This multicenter retrospective analysis of prospectively collected LANDSCAPE registry data studied real-world effectiveness and safety of upadacitinib 15 mg or 30 mg once daily in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis over 52 weeks, emphasizing cumulative disease control. By excluding patients who changed dose during follow-up, the study estimated longitudinal cumulative benefit rather than relying only on fixed timepoint endpoints. The findings support how upadacitinib performs over time in routine care and may help clinicians better quantify sustained disease control.

Potestio L, Bianco M, Mastorino L et al. · Dermatology and therapy · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Associations of Early Pregnancy Contaminant Exposure with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Mediation by Metabolic Pathway Perturbations.

This prospective birth cohort study used a meet-in-the-middle mediation analysis with a nested case-control design (116 gestational diabetes mellitus cases, 232 controls) to test whether early pregnancy exposure to environmental contaminants is associated with GDM risk and whether metabolic pathway perturbations mediate that relationship. Among 182 measured contaminants across 11 categories, seven contaminants were associated with GDM, with BHT-COOH showing the strongest association (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.59–3.45), and mediation was evaluated using 702 early-pregnancy serum metabolites. The work identifies specific chemical exposures and metabolic mechanisms that could improve risk stratification and causal understanding of GDM pathogenesis.

Li TZ, Gu YH, Wu ZG et al. · Environmental science & technology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Pocket guide Biologics in upper and lower airway diseases 2026 by EUFOREA.

This EUFOREA 2026 pocket guide was studied as a clinical synthesis of biologic therapies for upper and lower airway inflammatory diseases, focusing on real-world implementation and outcomes in conditions such as severe uncontrolled chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), asthma, and eosinophilic COPD. The key finding is that biologics targeting key inflammatory pathways improve disease control in routine practice beyond trial settings, with supportive real-world effectiveness data. Clinically, the guide is significant because it helps clinicians select and implement biologic treatments for severe chronic airway diseases in everyday care.

Verstappen G, Bertels X, Al-Lehebi RO et al. · Rhinology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Identification of a systemic lupus erythematosus disease signature in resting naive B cells.

This study profiled resting naive B cells from female adults with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in active versus inactive disease states, focusing on transcriptomic and epigenomic differences, primarily in individuals of Black ancestry. The key finding was a distinct inactive-SLE B-cell transcriptome and epigenome with increased cytokine signaling pathway expression, including interferon signatures and elevated IL-12 and TNF-α/NF-κB–related programs. This is significant because it identifies state-specific molecular signatures in B cells that may improve understanding of SLE biology and inform biomarker or therapeutic targeting.

Rose JR, Ishii Y, Khosroshahi A et al. · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Topical Finasteride 0.25% Solution for Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) in Postmenopausal Women: A 52-Week Retrospective Observational Study.

This 52-week retrospective observational study evaluated topical finasteride 0.25% solution in 26 postmenopausal women with female pattern hair loss (FPHL). It found clinical and trichoscopic outcomes over one year for topical finasteride monotherapy, aiming to assess efficacy while addressing concerns about systemic exposure seen with off-label oral finasteride. Clinically, the results support whether topical finasteride can provide a safer, lower-systemic-exposure alternative for FPHL treatment in postmenopausal patients.

Piraccini BM, Gupta AK, Cedirian S et al. · International journal of dermatology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Neuroimmunology & Neurodegeneration

Antiviral and inflammatory immune signatures in anti-CD20-treated multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study.

This cross-sectional study profiled antiviral T-cell immunity, innate inflammatory tone, and blood markers of neuroaxonal injury in adults with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) who were untreated (n=45) or treated with the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody ocrelizumab (n=25), alongside a separate antiviral cohort including healthy donors. Using high-parameter flow cytometry across >40 immune populations and functional T-cell assays to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and SARS-CoV, anti-CD20 therapy reshaped antiviral immune signatures and altered inflammatory and neuroaxonal injury–related blood markers. These findings support that CD20 depletion has measurable, clinically relevant effects on antiviral immune control and systemic inflammation in MS, informing biomarker development and monitoring of patients on ocrelizumab.

D’Orso S, Picozza M, Guerrera G et al. · Journal of neurology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

An aging-sensitive secreted phospholipase confers neuroprotection and cognitive resilience.

This study examined whether the aging-associated secreted phospholipase Pla2g2f in hippocampal dentate granule cells (DGCs) protects against age-related synapse loss and cognitive decline in mice and assessed relevance to human cognitive resilience. Pla2g2f deletion in DGCs worsened aging phenotypes including synapse loss, inflammatory microglia, reactive astrogliosis, impaired neurogenesis, lipid dysregulation with lipid droplet accumulation, and hippocampal-dependent memory loss, whereas boosting Pla2g2f in DGCs during aging was protective. These results identify Pla2g2f as a potential therapeutic target to promote neuroprotection and cognitive resilience during aging.

Vicidomini C, Goode TD, Yu R et al. · Nature neuroscience · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Genome-wide CRISPR screen reveals that Wnt signaling regulates lipid accumulation in APOE4 oligodendrocytes.

This study explored how Wnt signaling regulates lipid accumulation in APOE4-expressing oligodendrocytes by combining a genome-wide CRISPR screen with ATAC-seq in human iPSC-derived oligodendrocytes. It identified decreased Wnt signaling and overactive GSK3B as key regulators of APOE4-associated lipid droplet accumulation, and genetic plus pharmacologic GSK3B inhibition reduced lipid droplet buildup. The findings connect APOE4 risk biology to a druggable Wnt/GSK3B pathway that may help preserve oligodendrocyte function and myelination in late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

Akay LA, Bright A, Dong D et al. · Cell stem cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

An integrative transcriptomic atlas of ALS and aging skeletal muscle defines shared and distinct molecular programs of degeneration.

This study created an integrative single-nucleus transcriptomic atlas of skeletal muscle degeneration by comparing the SOD1G93A ALS mouse model with wild-type mice across the lifespan. It identified shared and distinct molecular programs of muscle degeneration associated with ALS versus age-related sarcopenia, supported by complementary structural and functional analyses. The atlas provides a resource for pinpointing pathways that drive both common and condition-specific mechanisms of muscle wasting.

Grima-Terrén M, Rommelfanger M, Campanario S et al. · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder polygenic risk score and incidence of cognitive impairment in older adults: A prospective multicohort study.

This prospective multicohort study analyzed whole-genome sequencing data from 7761 cognitively unimpaired older adults in eight cohorts from the Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project (ADSP) to test whether an ADHD polygenic risk score (ADHD-PRS) predicts incident cognitive impairment (mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease dementia). Participants in the highest ADHD-PRS tertile had a higher 10-year cumulative incidence of cognitive impairment than those in lower tertiles. The scientific significance is that genetically inferred ADHD risk may help identify older adults at elevated risk for future cognitive decline, supporting earlier risk stratification and prevention research.

Leffa DT, Bauer-Negrini G, Amaral L et al. · Alzheimer’s & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer’s Association · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

ISG15+ Müller glial subtype contributes to early blood-retinal barrier breakdown in diabetic retinopathy.

The study characterized an interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15)+ Müller glial subtype in diabetic retinopathy using streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice and primary Müller glia assays. ISG15+ Müller glia expanded early in vivo, while high glucose alone did not induce basal ISG15 or detectable ISGylation in Müller glia; instead, conditioned medium from high-glucose–exposed microglia induced ISG15 and ISGylation, recapitulated by IFN-β and attenuated by type I interferon receptor 1 inhibition. This links microglia-driven type I interferon signaling to early Müller glial barrier breakdown, implicating the ISG15 program as a contributor to diabetic retinal neurovascular dysfunction.

Niu T, Jiang Y, Xing X et al. · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy in a neuropathologically confirmed Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease cohort.

Postmortem chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) screening was performed using phosphorylated tau staining on hippocampal and frontal cortex samples from patients with neuropathologically confirmed Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD) in a neuropathologically confirmed cohort. CTE detection and subsequent classification were performed using NINDS/NIBIB consensus criteria, but the abstract is truncated so the reported prevalence or key results are not available in the provided text. Establishing (or refuting) a link between prion disease pathology and CTE would be important for understanding shared tauopathy mechanisms and for interpreting CTE-like pathology in neurodegenerative disease contexts.

Bertran L, Aldecoa I, Sindikubwabo A et al. · Brain pathology (Zurich, Switzerland) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Neural Circuits, Sleep & Pain Mechanisms

Changes in Medical Interns’ Psychological Well-Being and Work Investment Perceptions During the Internship Year: An Interim Prospective Repeated-Measures Study at a Single Tertiary Medical Center.

This interim prospective repeated-measures study followed 42 medical interns (126 questionnaires) at a single tertiary medical center across Q1–Q3 of the internship year to track changes in psychological well-being and work investment perceptions. It measured longitudinal shifts in general life satisfaction (Satisfaction With Life Scale, SWLS) along with stress, fatigue, work hours, and organizational perceptions, showing how these domains evolve during internship. The significance is that identifying temporal patterns in intern well-being can inform targeted interventions to support trainee mental health and sustain work engagement.

Sabih M, Vishnevsky G, Hamoud Y et al. · Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

A half-center oscillator regulates sleep pressure.

This study investigated the neural circuitry and dynamics underlying sleep pressure in Drosophila by focusing on sleep-control neurons innervating the dorsal fan-shaped body (dFBNs). The authors found that a dFBN ensemble generates slow-wave activity (SWA) that is causally linked to sleep, with bistable cells oscillating between hyperpolarized DOWN and depolarized UP states driven by interhemispheric competition of two half-centers connected by inhibitory glutamatergic synapses. By showing that restricting glutamate release disrupts SWA and both baseline and rebound sleep (using dFBN-restricted interference and optogenetic approaches), the study provides a mechanistic model for how sleep pressure is regulated by defined oscillator circuitry.

Hasenhuetl PS, Sarnataro R, Vrontou E et al. · Nature neuroscience · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Recovery sleep induces analgesia via sleep ensembles of the zona incerta acting through distinct neural circuits in mice.

This mouse study examined how recovery sleep produces analgesia through sleep-activated neuronal ensembles in the zona incerta (ZI) and distinct neural circuits. Optrode recordings showed NREM-active ZI ensembles whose activity was attenuated by chronic pain, and manipulating these ensembles bidirectionally changed NREM sleep and pain sensitivity; neurotensin (NTS) expression in these neurons was enriched and NTS knockdown blunted the sleep- and analgesia-promoting effects. These findings identify a specific ZI–NTS circuit mechanism linking NREM sleep to analgesia, suggesting circuit- or NTS-targeted approaches for pain relief.

Sun H, Liu X, Zhao X et al. · Neuron · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

A brainstem module for backward locomotion reveals direction-selective premotor circuits.

This study mapped premotor circuitry for directional locomotion in mice by identifying a brainstem module for backward walking. Pontine backward locomotion center (PBLC) glutamatergic neurons were preferentially recruited during backward locomotion, and their activation induced robust backward walking while inhibition suppressed backward movement across contexts; PBLC projections included ascending inputs to the peri-fasciculus retroflexus and descending outputs to the paramedian reticular nucleus (PMn). Scientifically, the work delineates direction-selective premotor pathways that could guide future interventions for locomotor control disorders.

Liu Z, Lu L, Di R et al. · Neuron · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

An opioid efficacy switch for reversible optical control of analgesia.

The study developed and structurally characterized a reversibly photoswitchable morphinan agonist (“azo-morphine-3”, AM-3) to optically control mu-opioid receptor (MOR) signaling in the context of opioid analgesia. AM-3 interconverts between low- and high-efficacy MOR states upon light-driven trans/cis switching, with cryo/structural analysis revealing distinct MOR binding modes for each efficacy state. This provides a mechanistically precise, reversible way to localize MOR activation to specific receptor signaling states, potentially improving the therapeutic index of opioid analgesics by separating efficacy from adverse effects.

Posa L, Romano GR, Ji X et al. · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Cellular scaling laws in the mammalian brain.

The study analyzed whole-brain cell atlas data to propose scaling laws for neuronal diversity across mammalian brain regions. It argued that the distribution of diverse neuronal types reflects an algorithmic division between a “learning subsystem” (cortex, striatum, cerebellum) that scales by replication of repetitive modules and a “steering subsystem” (deep subcortical structures) that scales differently. This framework links cellular diversity patterns to computational roles, offering testable predictions for how brain architecture scales with size and function.

Chen F, Macosko EZ · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Dendritic computation for abstract rule-based flexible decision-making.

This study tested how dendritic computation supports flexible, abstract rule-based decision-making in mice using a rule-based task combined with in vivo two-photon imaging and optogenetics. In auditory cortex layer 5 extratelencephalic neurons, apical dendrites preferentially encoded the inferred abstract rule while somata represented sensory stimuli, with choice signals present in both compartments. The results indicate that dendrites can implement parallel representations needed for flexible cognition, informing circuit-level models of decision-making.

Zhang Y, Liu Y, Hu Y et al. · Science (New York, N.Y.) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Pre-Exercise Conditioned Pain Modulation Is Associated With Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Patients With Painful Rotator Cuff Tears.

This study examined whether pre-exercise endogenous pain inhibitory capacity measured by conditioned pain modulation (CPM) predicts the magnitude of exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH) in patients with painful rotator cuff tears. Thirty patients with symptomatic rotator cuff tears performed 25 minutes of moderate-intensity stationary cycling, and the study tested associations between CPM and changes in movement-evoked pain during active shoulder flexion. The results suggest that baseline pain inhibitory function may help predict who will experience greater hypoalgesic benefit from exercise, supporting more personalized pain management.

Oda S, Izumi M, Horino T et al. · European journal of pain (London, England) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Metabolism, Microbiome & Endocrine Regulation

Vitamin D Supplementation in Community-Dwelling Adults.

This article reviewed evidence on vitamin D testing and supplementation strategies in community-dwelling adults, focusing on general-population intake recommendations (e.g., 600 IU/day for ≤70 years and 800 IU/day for >70 years). It concludes that achieving recommended vitamin D intake can prevent serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels from falling below 12 ng/mL in 97.5% of the general population, while noting that randomized trial evidence for screening/supplementation in the general population remains limited. The clinical significance is that routine vitamin D screening may not be broadly supported, but ensuring adequate dietary/supplement intake to maintain target 25(OH)D levels is a practical prevention approach.

Nohria R, Bagatelas P, Martin S · American family physician · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Nutritional Accuracy and Clinical Applicability of Large Language Model-Generated Therapeutic Diet Plans for Phenylketonuria: A Comparative Simulation Study.

This comparative simulation study evaluated the nutritional accuracy and clinical applicability of large language model–generated one-day therapeutic diet plans for classical phenylketonuria (PKU) across standardized simulated cases (infancy, adolescence, adulthood, and maternal PKU). Using ChatGPT-5.2, Claude 4.5, and Gemini 3 with two prompting conditions (48 total plans), it found that AI-generated diets varied in nutrient precision and may not reliably meet the strict nutrient control requirements needed for therapeutic PKU diets. The clinical significance is that LLM-generated PKU meal plans require careful validation before use due to potential inaccuracies affecting phenylalanine and other nutrient targets.

Kulu B, Süzen B, Mintaş NE et al. · Nutrients · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

FGF21-NR1D1 Signaling Restrains the CYP4A/20-HETE/GPR75 Axis to Counteract Integrated Renal-Vascular Injury in Hypertension.

This study examined how FGF21–NR1D1 signaling modulates the CYP4A/20-HETE/GPR75 axis in models of hypertension affecting liver, kidney, and vasculature. The CYP4A/20-HETE/GPR75 pathway was concurrently activated across these organs and associated with renal fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress, while pharmacologic CYP4A inhibition attenuated these coordinated injuries. These findings suggest that targeting the CYP4A/20-HETE/GPR75 axis downstream of FGF21–NR1D1 could be a therapeutic strategy to reduce integrated renal–vascular damage in hypertension.

Guiyun W, Feng Q, Supeng L et al. · Pharmacological research · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Time course of muscle hypertrophy with and without progressive overload.

This randomized within-subject trial studied the time course of muscle hypertrophy in 31 healthy untrained young adults comparing progressive overload resistance training (PROG) versus non-progressive constant loading (N-PROG) over 12 weeks. Both protocols increased muscle cross-sectional area (mCSA) over time, with a significant protocol-by-time interaction indicating a different hypertrophy trajectory between PROG and N-PROG. The results support that progressive overload alters the temporal pattern of hypertrophy, informing how resistance training progression should be structured for maximal muscle growth.

Ferrari O, Silva DG, Camargo JBB et al. · International journal of sports medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Multi-omics atlas of chronic exercise.

This multi-omics study characterized systemic molecular effects of chronic exercise in mice across organs, sexes, and circadian phases. After 8 weeks of voluntary wheel running, the authors collected 22 tissues and plasma and found widespread, tissue-specific remodeling with the largest transcriptomic changes in skeletal muscle, with most tissues showing greater changes during the active phase (except hypothalamus, kidney, and lung) and females exhibiting broader transcriptional responses with distinct downregulation. The atlas provides a resource for understanding how exercise biology varies by tissue, sex, and time-of-day, supporting more precise exercise-medicine hypotheses.

Maier G, Hariharan M, Ramasamy RK et al. · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Akkermansia muciniphila protects against endometritis through a tyrosol-mediated gut-uterus axis.

The study examined whether the gut bacterium Akkermansia muciniphila (AKK) and its metabolite tyrosol protect against endometritis via a gut–uterus axis in cows and mouse models. Endometritis cows showed AKK depletion, and gut microbiota transplantation from endometritis cows induced endometritis in mice, while supplementation with live AKK (or its culture supernatant) alleviated Escherichia coli–induced endometritis but heat-inactivated AKK did not. Metabolomic profiling supported a tyrosol-mediated mechanism linking AKK activity to protection, suggesting a targeted probiotic/metabolite approach for reproductive tract inflammation.

Qu L, Cai J, Zhang X et al. · Cell host & microbe · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Frequency encoding regulates cell type composition in the small intestine.

This study examined how Notch signaling controls intestinal cell fate composition by analyzing oscillatory expression of the Notch-target gene Hes1 in the small intestine. Using an endogenous fluorescent Hes1 reporter, the authors found frequency-encoded Hes1 oscillations that vary along the crypt–villus axis and regulate absorptive versus secretory lineage specification in a frequency-dependent manner. This provides a mechanistic framework for how dynamic Notch/Hes1 signaling balances stem cell differentiation to maintain intestinal homeostasis.

Weterings SDC, Eto H, de Leede-Scheven JD et al. · Science (New York, N.Y.) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

A GPRC5B-Fyn signaling axis regulates VRAC activity by targeting LRRC8A.

This study investigated how physiological signals regulate the volume-regulated anion channel (VRAC) by identifying a GPRC5B–Fyn signaling axis that targets the essential VRAC subunit LRRC8A. The authors found that GPRC5B binds LRRC8A and recruits the Src-family kinase Fyn, and that Fyn suppresses hypotonicity-evoked VRAC activation by preventing LRRC8A conformational rearrangements required for channel opening. Disrupting Fyn binding to GPRC5B or mutating a predicted LRRC8A phosphorylation site (Y362) abolished this inhibition, highlighting a specific regulatory pathway for VRAC control in astrocytes and reconstituted systems.

Kostritskaia Y, Gaitán-Peñas H, Bertelli S et al. · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Common questions and misconceptions about diets: what does the scientific evidence really show?

This review synthesized scientific evidence addressing common diet questions and misconceptions, including topics relevant to muscle gain, fat loss, intermittent fasting versus continuous caloric restriction, sex differences in fasting responses, and whether diet alone can meet nutrient needs for exercise-trained individuals. It emphasizes that many popular claims are not supported or are context-dependent, and it frames conclusions around the strength and limitations of available evidence. The review is significant for improving public and clinical nutrition literacy by clarifying what current research actually supports.

Antonio J, Antonio B, Aragon A et al. · Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

TM6SF2 acts at ER membrane contact sites to enable RAB7-dependent endolysosomal VLDL secretion and maintain Golgi structure.

The study investigated the normal cellular function of the ER membrane protein TM6SF2 in cells and models relevant to lipid-rich VLDL secretion, focusing on its interaction with late endosomes/lysosomes and the small GTPase RAB7. TM6SF2 localized to ER–late endosome/lysosome membrane contact sites and activated RAB7 to enable an endolysosomal secretion route for selective VLDL particle release, with TM6SF2 or RAB7 deficiency causing endolysosomal VLDL retention and enlarged late endosomes/lysosomes. These findings mechanistically link TM6SF2 to endolysosomal trafficking and Golgi maintenance, providing a pathway that may underlie steatotic liver disease risk from TM6SF2 loss-of-function variants.

Heidary Arash E, Groeger M, Grenert JP et al. · Cell reports · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Exercise Prescriptions for Cardiovascular Health in Adults: 2026 ACC Scientific Statement: A Report of the American College of Cardiology.

This 2026 ACC scientific statement reviewed evidence and provided practical guidance on prescribing exercise for cardiovascular health across prevention and disease management. It emphasized that structured physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness are key determinants of cardiovascular outcomes, with the largest absolute benefits for previously inactive individuals and additional gains with increasing activity. The statement is significant because it translates evidence into clinician-facing recommendations to better integrate exercise prescriptions into routine cardiovascular care.

Myers J, Beckie TM, Chastin S et al. · Journal of the American College of Cardiology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Non-Insulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes.

A 26-week randomized trial studied continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) versus routine care in adults with type 2 diabetes not using insulin across 22 U.S. primary care practices. CGM improved glycemic outcomes at 26 weeks as measured by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), with prespecified hierarchical testing of CGM-derived secondary endpoints. Clinically, these findings support CGM as a beneficial management strategy for non–insulin-treated type 2 diabetes, potentially improving routine care beyond conventional fingerstick monitoring.

Oser TK, Martens T, Ruedy KJ et al. · The New England journal of medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of Menopause-Related Vasomotor, Sleep, and Mood Symptoms.

The ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline was developed to study evidence-based management approaches for menopause-related vasomotor, sleep, and mood symptoms in perimenopausal and postmenopausal individuals assigned female at birth, including women, transgender men, and gender-diverse individuals. The guideline provides recommendations for clinical management across spontaneous and induced menopause (at or beyond age 40 years). Its significance lies in standardizing care for these common symptom clusters using an evidence-based framework applicable to diverse patient populations.

Obstetrics and gynecology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Escherichia coli hns and methylglyoxal link gut microbial metabolism to host neuronal gene regulation in Parkinson’s disease.

This study investigated how the gut microbial Escherichia coli hns gene and its metabolite methylglyoxal (MG) influence host neuronal gene regulation in Parkinson’s disease, using stool metagenomic data to identify microbial pathways and linking them to neuronal regulatory effects. The key finding was identification of an E. coli hns–MG pathway enriched in a gut-originating PD subtype (“body-first” PD) that connects bacterial metabolism to host neuronal gene regulation. This is significant because it pinpoints a specific microbial gene–metabolite axis that could be targeted to modify PD pathogenesis.

Shin MG, Park SJ, Kang W et al. · Gut microbes · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Self-medication of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms with psychoactive substances in adults: a scoping review of how symptom-relief motives are framed and operationalised across substances.

This scoping review mapped how the self-medication hypothesis for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptom relief in adults is framed and operationalized across different psychoactive substances. It focuses on literature describing adults with ADHD (including undiagnosed individuals) using substances such as tobacco, cannabis, alcohol, cocaine, and non-prescribed stimulants to relieve core symptoms rather than for recreation. Scientifically, the review clarifies how claims are tested across substances, which can improve interpretation of evidence used to reframe illicit drug use as ADHD self-medication.

Adamou M, Petrou C · Frontiers in psychiatry · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Cardiovascular Risk, Trials & Vascular Biology

Association of Life’s Essential 8 With Clonal Hematopoiesis and Coronary Artery Disease.

This study analyzed 427,295 UK Biobank participants to assess whether the American Heart Association Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) cardiovascular health score is associated with clonal hematopoiesis (CH) prevalence and how LE8 and CH jointly relate to incident coronary artery disease (CAD). It found that LE8 score and CH prevalence are linked and that their combined effects further stratify risk for developing CAD. The scientific significance is improved cardiovascular risk prediction by integrating a hematopoietic genetic risk factor (CH) with a standardized clinical health metric (LE8).

Liu Y, Li L, Liang S et al. · JACC. CardioOncology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Pelacarsen and Lp(a)HORIZON: Interpreting the Disconnect Between Lipoprotein(a) Lowering and Cardiovascular Outcomes.

This commentary interprets the apparent disconnect between lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] lowering and cardiovascular outcomes in the context of pelacarsen, an antisense oligonucleotide targeting apolipoprotein(a), evaluated in the Lp(a)HORIZON phase 3 outcomes trial. Although pelacarsen lowered Lp(a), the trial did not reduce the primary composite cardiovascular endpoint in patients with established cardiovascular disease, with full mechanistic details pending. The discussion frames why pharmacologic Lp(a) reduction may not translate into event reduction in this setting, emphasizing the need to understand timing, residual risk, and biological mechanisms beyond Lp(a) concentration alone.

Sabouret P, Giamundo DM, Asher E et al. · The American journal of medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Cardiovascular and mortality outcomes with JAK versus TNF inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis: a target trial emulation (CARDINAL-RA).

This target trial emulation study (CARDINAL-RA) compared cardiovascular and mortality outcomes of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK inhibitors) versus tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNF inhibitors) in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at elevated cardiovascular risk using TriNetX. Using a new-user, active-comparator design with improved 1:1 propensity score matching (including demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, conventional synthetic DMARDs, oral corticosteroids, prior non-TNF biologic exposure, and baseline inflammatory markers), it assessed MACE as the primary outcome. The findings aim to inform comparative cardiovascular safety decisions between JAKi and TNFi in higher-risk RA populations.

McClenahan R, Alamlih L · Frontiers in immunology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Initial treatment strategies and outcomes across haemodynamic thresholds and risk stratification in incident systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension: a EUSTAR analysis.

This EUSTAR real-world analysis studied incident systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (SSc-PAH) patients to characterize initial treatment strategies across haemodynamic thresholds and risk strata and to assess associations with outcomes. It found that only a minority of treatment-naïve patients initiated therapy within 4 months of right-heart catheterization (RHC) and that treatment initiation and maintenance varied by haemodynamic/risk category, with outcomes evaluated for all-cause mortality and 36-month PAH progression. Clinically, these findings inform how initial management differs in practice and which patient groups may benefit from earlier or more tailored PAH therapy.

Bjørkekjær HJ, Bruni C, Broch K et al. · Arthritis & rheumatology (Hoboken, N.J.) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Sex-Based Differences in Chronic Heart Failure: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in chronic heart failure evaluated sex-based differences in enrollment and treatment effects over time, extracting sex-specific hazard ratios (HRs) or risk ratios (RRs) for hard endpoints (mortality and hospitalization). The abstract text provided does not include the quantitative results, so the direction and magnitude of sex-specific treatment effects cannot be reported here. Scientifically and clinically, this work is intended to clarify whether chronic HF therapies and devices perform differently in women versus men and to guide more equitable trial design and interpretation.

Fazzini L, Pascalis L, Madaudo C et al. · European journal of heart failure · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Bone, Cartilage & Musculoskeletal Regeneration

Skin fibroblast lineage tracing reveals layer-specific cooperation in wound repair.

This study used skin fibroblast lineage tracing to determine how layer-specific fibroblast populations cooperate during wound repair across different wound severities. Using a dual-recombinase genetic strategy to trace fibroblasts from all five skin layers (papillary, reticular, hypodermal, panniculus carnosus, and fascia), the authors found distinct spatiotemporal contribution patterns, with deep wounds recruiting fibroblasts sequentially across three stages while superficial wounds involved two stages. These results provide a mechanistic framework for tailoring regenerative therapies based on wound depth and the specific fibroblast lineages involved.

Guo Z, Xia T, Zhang Z et al. · Cell stem cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

IRF2BP2-FOSL2 interaction regulates SOX9-mediated cartilage regeneration in osteoarthritis models.

The study investigated the role of the IRF2BP2–FOSL2 axis in regulating SOX9-mediated cartilage regeneration in osteoarthritis (OA) models, using Irf2bp2 deficiency and cartilage-specific knockout approaches. Irf2bp2 loss promoted chondrogenesis and inhibited chondrocyte terminal differentiation by transcriptionally upregulating SOX9, including ectopic SOX9 expression in the hypertrophic zone, and cartilage-specific KO of Irf2bp2 elevated SOX9 and attenuated OA progression in a destabilization model. These results identify IRF2BP2 as a mechanistic regulator of SOX9-driven cartilage repair and a potential therapeutic target to slow OA cartilage degeneration.

Zhou H, Lu T, Gao Z et al. · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Managing Rebound Bone Loss After Denosumab Discontinuation: Mechanisms, Risk Stratification, and Sequential Therapy.

This narrative review synthesized evidence on why denosumab discontinuation leads to rebound bone loss and how to stratify risk and prevent fractures using sequential therapy. It explains that stopping denosumab rapidly restores RANKL bioavailability, triggering an osteoclast “overshoot” that increases vertebral and other fracture risk, and it evaluates preventive strategies such as transitioning to other antiresorptives. Clinically, the review provides a mechanistic and practical framework for managing denosumab cessation safely to reduce rebound-associated skeletal harm.

Ahmad, Liao Y, Yu M et al. · Drug design, development and therapy · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Aging, Senescence & Epigenetic/Chromatin Regulation

MTR4: A Conserved Youth Factor for Vascular Endothelium.

This mechanistic study investigated vascular endothelial cell (VEC) senescence and identified MTR4, an evolutionarily conserved RNA helicase and nuclear RNA exosome cofactor, as a regulator of endothelial aging using senescent human endothelial cells (including HUVECs) and aged mouse aortas. It found that MTR4 protein declines during senescence via synoviolin 1 (SYVN1)-mediated K638-linked ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, and that MTR4 depletion induces premature senescence while MTR4 overexpression preserves endothelial youthfulness. The significance is that the MTR4–SYVN1 axis may represent a therapeutic target to delay vascular endothelial aging and related age-associated pathologies.

Guo Z, Chen Z, Sun J et al. · Aging cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Multi-Omic Integration of the miRNome and Transcriptome in Dermal Fibroblasts from Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Identifies Convergent Candidate miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Networks Linking Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Inflammation.

This study performed multi-omic profiling in cultured dermal fibroblasts from individuals with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS, n=12), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD, n=12), and controls (n=24), integrating miRNome sequencing with transcriptome data to identify convergent miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks. It found differential miRNA signatures in pooled hEDS/HSD analyses (with no single miRNA meeting threshold in direct hEDS versus HSD comparison) and implicated networks linked to extracellular matrix remodeling and inflammation. The scientific significance is the identification of candidate miRNA-mRNA regulatory pathways that could help explain molecular mechanisms underlying hEDS/HSD and support biomarker discovery.

Pelisenco IA, Cinquina V, Chiarelli N et al. · International journal of molecular sciences · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

ELF1 exacerbates intervertebral disc degeneration by promoting ACSL4-dependent ferro-aging of nucleus pulposus cells through the IFITM3-PTPRO axis.

This study investigated whether ELF1 drives intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) by promoting ACSL4-dependent ferro-aging of nucleus pulposus cells via the IFITM3–PTPRO axis, using single-cell RNA-seq and human tissue validation. ELF1 was reported to exacerbate IVDD by activating a ferro-aging program dependent on ACSL4, with mechanistic support implicating the IFITM3–PTPRO signaling axis upstream of this process. Clinically, defining the ELF1–IFITM3–PTPRO–ACSL4 pathway provides a potential molecular target to slow or prevent ferroptosis/ferro-aging–linked disc degeneration.

Lu JH, Huang SS, Xu HW et al. · Life sciences · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Mitochondria-targeted tetraoxanes initiate lipid peroxidation to drive ferroptosis and tumor suppression.

This study developed mitochondria-targeted tetraoxane compounds (WMK-1/2) designed as metabolic initiators of lipid peroxidation to induce ferroptosis for tumor suppression. WMK-1 localized to mitochondria, initiated local lipid peroxidation, impaired oxidative phosphorylation, and triggered a “mito-ferroptosis” pathway that could bypass reliance on GPX4 inhibition. Therapeutically, these compounds offer an in vivo strategy to induce ferroptosis without directly targeting GPX4/FSP1, potentially overcoming resistance mechanisms in cancer.

Pan Z, Wong MK, Lu Y et al. · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Cellular self-organization orchestrates ferroptosis propagation.

The study investigated how cellular self-organization regulates the propagation of ferroptosis in patterned cell populations. It found that spatial patterning of cell density and alignment constrains ferroptosis spread by encoding transcriptional programs: low-density, misaligned regions with elevated YAP/TEAD1 are ferroptosis-sensitive, while high-density, aligned regions with increased NRF2 form propagation-resistant boundaries. These results identify YAP/TEAD1 and NRF2 as key regulators of collective ferroptosis dynamics, informing strategies to prevent or harness ferroptotic wave propagation.

Cheng JH, Co HKC, Lin HK et al. · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Molecular mechanism of residue-specific nucleosome acetylation.

The study determined the residue-specific molecular mechanism of histone H4 lysine 16 acetylation catalyzed by the Drosophila male-specific lethal (MSL) histone acetyltransferase (HAT) complex. Using cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the MSL complex engaged during active catalysis, the authors visualized how coenzyme A transfers the acetyl group to specific nucleosomal residues, including observation of a stable product state. This structural mechanism clarifies how HAT complexes achieve residue-specific nucleosome acetylation, advancing understanding of chromatin regulation and epigenetic disease processes.

Müller M, Kolesnikova O, Doudin M et al. · Molecular cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Somatic epimutations cap genetic determinism in the human diploid chromatin epigenome.

The study investigated how somatic epimutations shape the human diploid chromatin epigenome and whether they constrain genetic determinism. Using Fiber-seq inferred regulatory elements (FIRE), it produced a quantitative, bias-reduced map of accessible chromatin across the ~6 Gbp diploid genome and detected haplotype-selective chromatin accessibility (HSCA), including imprinted elements that lack parent-of-origin DNA methylation differences yet allow genes to escape X-chromosome inactivation. These findings show that epigenetic alterations can modulate or “cap” purely genetic control of regulatory states, refining models of human gene regulation and inheritance.

Vollger MR, Swanson EG, Neph SJ et al. · Cell · (2026) · 3 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Resolving the links between efferocytosis and DNMT3A mutation-driven clonal hematopoiesis in atherosclerosis.

This work (as summarized in the JCI commentary) examined how efferocytosis-driven macrophage reprogramming in atherosclerosis connects to DNA-methyltransferase-3A (DNMT3A) mutation-driven clonal hematopoiesis, focusing on DNMT3A’s role in DNA repair and oxidized DNA suppression. The key finding was that efferocytosis activates DNMT3A to promote base excision repair and suppress oxidized DNA, and that DNMT3A supported tissue repair during plaque regression in a mouse atherosclerosis model. Scientifically and clinically, resolving this DNMT3A–efferocytosis link helps explain how clonal hematopoiesis may influence atherosclerosis progression or resolution and could guide future therapeutic strategies.

Asnani A · The Journal of clinical investigation · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Reprogramming NOX4-associated ferro-aging with an iron-chelating senescent-cell-targeted therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration.

This preclinical study investigated a NOX4-associated “ferro-aging” program in degenerative intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) using clinical imaging, transcriptomics, human disc specimens, iron-overloaded nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), and naturally aged rats, and tested an iron-chelating senescent-cell-targeted therapy. It found that NOX4 acts upstream of ROS-dependent ACSL4 activation, driving lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular senescence, with ferro-aging-associated changes consistently observed across human and animal models. Scientifically and potentially clinically, targeting NOX4-driven ferro-aging with iron chelation and senescent-cell-directed therapy may represent a disease-modifying strategy for IVDD beyond symptomatic pain control.

Wang J, Chen Q, Xing J et al. · Bioactive materials · (2027) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Bone Marrow Macrophage STING Signaling is a Direct Nexus Linking Marrow Adipose Expansion to NAD+ Depletion and Osteogenic Decline in Skeletal Aging.

The study investigated how bone marrow macrophage (BMM) STING signaling links marrow adipose expansion to NAD+ depletion and osteogenic decline during skeletal aging, using age-dependent BMM STING perturbation and mechanistic assays involving soluble dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (sDPP4), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and mitochondrial DNA. BMM STING deficiency was detrimental during early bone development/maturation but became protective against age-related bone loss from midlife onward, with sDPP4 acting as an extracellular ligand that cooperates with mitochondrial DNA to activate STING via TLR4. These findings identify a mechanistic STING–NAD+–osteogenesis axis that could be targeted to prevent or treat age-associated bone deterioration.

Li Z, Gao K, Wang M et al. · Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Genomics, Sequencing Methods & Variant Interpretation

A phenome-wide structural variant map from 467,152 UK Biobank genomes.

This phenome-wide association study analyzed structural variants (SVs) in 467,152 UK Biobank participants to map SV–trait relationships across thousands of phenotypes. Using whole-genome sequencing–derived SVs, the study performed SV-PheWAS across 13,322 binary, 2,018 quantitative, and 2,923 plasma protein traits and identified extensive associations, with protein QTL analysis linking thousands of SVs to 1,690 proteins in a type- and location-dependent manner. The resulting SV map expands human genetic architecture beyond copy-number variants and supports improved interpretation of SV contributions to disease risk.

Atanur SS, Hu F, Lou H et al. · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

A telomere-to-telomere map of somatic mutation burden and functional impact in a cancer.

The study characterized somatic mutation burden and functional impact in cancer by combining near-telomere-to-telomere (near-T2T) diploid genome assembly with deep short- and long-read sequencing of a melanoma donor. It found that 16% of somatic variants occur in sequences absent from GRCh38, with satellite repeats acting as UV-associated mutagenesis hotspots, and that centromere kinetochore binding domains coincide with chromosome arm aneuploidy breakpoint sites and somatic variation. By showing similar features in non-cancerous tissues, the work links genome architecture to mutation susceptibility and informs more complete cancer genome interpretation.

Sohn MH, Dubocanin D, Vollger MR et al. · Cell · (2026) · 3 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Comprehensive benchmarking of somatic mutation detection by the SMaHT Network.

The study benchmarked somatic mutation detection performance across sequencing and analysis approaches through the SMaHT (Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues) Network. It generated community resources using cell lines and donor tissues with >1,000× short-read and 100–400× long-read data for nine samples, evaluating detection of multiple somatic variant types. The results established effective strategies for combining short- and long-read sequencing and for using donor-specific and pangenomic references to improve somatic mosaicism calling.

Cell · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Atomic functional site scaffolding in biopolymers with RFdiffusion3.

This study introduced RFdiffusion3 (RFD3), a generative AI method using free atom diffusion, and evaluated it for structure-guided biopolymer design. The authors experimentally demonstrated RFD3’s ability to design de novo phosphotriesterases with complex active-site atomic architectures, including a carbamylated lysine coordinating two metal ions, and also applied it to zinc protease design. This advances AI-driven protein/enzyme design by improving accuracy and speed for scaffolding functional atomic sites.

Butcher J, Krishna R, Mitra R et al. · Science (New York, N.Y.) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Imaging, Diagnostics & Clinical Prediction Tools

Heterogeneity in Self-Reported Management of Blunt Chest Trauma: An International Cross-Sectional Survey.

This international cross-sectional survey assessed healthcare professionals’ self-reported diagnostic and management practices for blunt chest trauma using a web-based questionnaire (509 responses: 225 Italian and 284 international). The key finding was substantial heterogeneity in how blunt chest trauma is managed across settings and countries, indicating variability in adherence to consistent diagnostic/therapeutic approaches. The significance is that standardization and guideline implementation efforts may be needed to reduce practice variation and improve care quality for blunt chest trauma.

Cimino M, Notaro S, Esquinas AM et al. · Journal of clinical medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Single-cell multi-omics in IPF and COPD: from atlas to impact.

This article is a review summarizing how single-cell multi-omics approaches are being used to move from lung atlases to biological and clinical impact in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It highlights key technologies (single-cell and spatial multi-omics) and analytical challenges such as batch correction, dataset integration, and sample-aware differential gene expression, and it describes reference atlases enabling cross-study validation, lineage/trajectory inference, and inter-disease comparisons. By synthesizing current methods and limitations, it guides researchers toward more robust, reproducible multi-omics studies that can translate into improved understanding and potential biomarkers for chronic lung diseases.

Mehta P, He C, Mawar CMA et al. · The European respiratory journal · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Updated Italian intersocietal recommendations for the appropriate use of anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies in Alzheimer’s disease.

The study provided updated Italian intersocietal recommendations for the appropriate use of anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies in Alzheimer’s disease following the authorization of lecanemab and donanemab. Using a modified Delphi consensus process, the Italian Expert Panel on Alzheimer (EPA2) produced 36 statements across domains including tiered organization of treatment centers to address operational gaps from the 2025 recommendations. These guidance updates are clinically significant for standardizing patient selection, delivery, and implementation of disease-modifying therapy in early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease.

Benussi A, Agosta F, Agnello L et al. · The journal of prevention of Alzheimer’s disease · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Clinician Use of an Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Clinical Information Platform.

This cross-sectional study analyzed how clinicians used an AI-enabled clinical information platform (OpenEvidence) by examining clinician query logs from January 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026. Using a large language model to classify query purpose and topic, the study characterized the distribution of use across the clinical workforce and the clinical intent behind submitted questions. The results provide empirical evidence on real-world clinician interaction patterns with AI tools, informing safer deployment and workflow integration.

Patel VR, Finlayson SG, Liu-Hass M et al. · JAMA · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Beyond seizure control: Non-seizure-related outcomes in focal-onset epilepsy treated with adjunctive cenobamate. Third interim results from the BLESS study.

This interim analysis from the BLESS observational cohort studied adjunctive cenobamate in adults with focal-onset epilepsy who had uncontrolled seizures, evaluating patient- and clinician-reported non-seizure outcomes over up to 52 weeks. Cenobamate treatment was assessed for changes in health-related quality of life and related domains including sleepiness, anxiety, mood, and global functioning. The study extends cenobamate evidence beyond seizure control by clarifying real-world benefits and tolerability for quality-of-life endpoints in focal epilepsy.

Lattanzi S, d’Orsi G, Di Claudio MT et al. · Epilepsia · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Developing Models for Complicated Outcomes in Acutely Intoxicated ICU Patients With and Without Toxicity Information.

This multicenter prospective cohort study evaluated the prognostic value of the mean Lethality Risk Score (LRS), reflecting toxicity of substances in an exposure, to build prediction models for complicated outcomes in 2265 adult ICU patients with acute intoxication (2020–2023) across 78 ICUs in Europe, Australia, and the Eastern Mediterranean. The key finding was that toxicity-informed LRS measures had prognostic utility for ICU complications or death, enabling development of risk prediction models. Scientifically and clinically, incorporating exposure toxicity information can improve outcome stratification and guide management in critically ill intoxication patients.

Zwaag SM, van Sabben N, van den Hengel-Koot IS et al. · Critical care medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Ventilatory Management in Neurocritical Versus Non-Neurocritical Care Patients: A Pooled Analysis From the PRIME Database.

Using a post hoc pooled analysis of harmonized individual patient data from the PRIME database, this study compared ventilatory management in neurocritical versus non-neurocritical care patients and assessed whether specific ventilator settings predicted ARDS and mortality in neurocritical patients. The analysis identified ventilator-setting associations with subsequent ARDS development and ICU mortality specifically within the neurocritical subgroup. This is significant because it informs evidence-based ventilatory strategies tailored to neurocritical care patients to reduce ARDS and improve survival.

Serafini SC, Cinotti R, Asehnoune K et al. · Critical care medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Changes in Coronal and Sagittal Plane Alignment After Transphyseal ACL Reconstruction Performed Within Two Years of Skeletal Maturity: Results From the PLUTO Study Group.

This prospective multicenter cohort study evaluated postoperative lower-extremity coronal and sagittal alignment changes 1 year after transphyseal anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in skeletally immature patients within 2 years of skeletal maturity. The study tested the hypothesis that transphyseal ACLR would not cause clinically significant alignment changes, using standardized alignment assessment after surgery. The results are intended to inform surgical decision-making and risk counseling regarding growth-related outcomes after transphyseal ACL reconstruction near skeletal maturity.

Bram JT, Saville GH, Whalen MM et al. · The American journal of sports medicine · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Single-particle cryoEM: Theory and practice.

This theoretical and practical review studied the fundamental limitation of radiation damage in single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) and how many particle images are needed to achieve a desired resolution under ideal imaging conditions. It found that the field’s goal of near-perfect imaging can be translated into quantitative estimates of required image counts, and it compared these targets with resolution performance seen in published cryoEM structures. The significance is that it provides a framework for optimizing cryoEM data collection and exposure strategies to maximize structural information while minimizing radiation damage.

Patwardhan A, Rosenthal PB, Russo CJ et al. · Quarterly reviews of biophysics · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

Ultrashort Echo Time Magnetization Transfer MRI for Cortical Bone Collagen Assessment and Its Association With Mineralization in Type 1 Diabetes.

This longitudinal animal study investigated whether ultrashort echo time magnetization transfer (UTE-MT) MRI can monitor cortical bone collagen alterations in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and how these changes relate to mineralization and multiscale bone properties. Using 18 male New Zealand white rabbits randomized to diabetic (n=12) and control (n=6) groups, it evaluated UTE-MT-derived magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) as an in vivo marker of collagen changes during disease progression. Scientifically, it suggests UTE-MT MRI could noninvasively track matrix quality deterioration in T1DM, which may help explain fracture risk beyond bone mineral density (BMD).

Pei M, Jiang C, Liu WV et al. · Journal of magnetic resonance imaging : JMRI · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Effectiveness of Surfactant Administration in Two Different Methods (MIST, INSURE) on the Short-Term Outcome of Preterm Infants With Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

This randomized clinical trial studied preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) to compare two surfactant administration strategies: MIST versus INSURE. In 80 neonates aged 28–34 weeks, it assessed short-term outcomes and complications associated with each method of surfactant delivery. The significance is that it provides evidence to optimize practical bedside surfactant delivery approaches to improve early respiratory outcomes in preterm infants.

Heidarzadeh F, Pournajaf S, Akbarian-Rad Z et al. · Pediatric pulmonology · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

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Infectious Disease & Antimicrobial Resistance

The global epidemiology and treatment of metallo-β-lactamase-producing gram-negative pathogens.

This review studied the global epidemiology and treatment challenges posed by metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-producing Gram-negative pathogens across healthcare settings worldwide. It found that MBL enzymes have disseminated globally at an unprecedented rate and that they are not inhibited by currently available β-lactamase inhibitors, leaving few effective antibiotic options because many MBL-harboring pathogens also carry resistance mechanisms across antibiotic classes. Clinically, this underscores an urgent need for new MBL-targeted therapeutics and improved antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance to limit spread and preserve carbapenem/β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor effectiveness.

McCreary EK, Heil EL, Aitken SL et al. · JAC-antimicrobial resistance · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Plant Biology, Agriculture & Crop Protection

Spatiotemporal co-transcriptomics uncovers coordinated rhizobia-legume stress programs supporting nitrogen fixation in Medicago.

The study used spatial enhanced resolution omics sequencing (Stereo-seq) to map coordinated host–rhizobia transcriptional stress programs across developmental stages of Medicago nodules. By applying a mixed-probe capture strategy to detect both Medicago and rhizobial transcripts in the same tissue sections, it generated a co-transcriptomic atlas and identified dynamic host cell composition changes and two transcription factors, MtERF82 and MtDOF53, required for nitrogen fixation–supporting stress responses. This provides a spatially resolved regulatory framework for how legumes coordinate stress management with symbiotic nitrogen fixation.

Shao W, Shi X, Guo X et al. · Cell · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

A pair of chitosan receptors confer broad-spectrum fungal resistance.

This study investigated how plants perceive chitosan to trigger antifungal immunity, identifying the apoplast-localized DUF26 protein OsFID1 and its plasma-membrane kinase partner OsFID2 in rice. OsFID1 and OsFID2 form a receptor complex in which OsFID2 phosphorylation is required for chitosan sensing, and the OsFID1–OsFID2 axis confers broad-spectrum fungal resistance. The work defines a conserved plant chitosan receptor mechanism that could be leveraged to engineer or screen for improved crop fungal resistance.

Huang K, Wu J, Cao Y et al. · Science (New York, N.Y.) · (2026) · 1 citations · View on PubMed ↗

Regulation of target gene expression by chromatin-associated protein-coding transcripts in plants.

This study investigated plant gene regulation by chromatin-associated protein-coding transcripts in Arabidopsis, focusing on the BT2 and GSL8 transcripts. BT2 and GSL8 modulate target gene transcription independently of their encoded proteins, with BT2 repressing CEP2 and MRF4 via RNA–DNA triplex formation to restrict root growth and promote flowering. These findings expand the regulatory roles of protein-coding transcripts and reveal specific RNA–DNA mechanisms that can control developmental programs.

Han L, Yuan Y, Liu Y et al. · Science (New York, N.Y.) · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗

Structure-based targeting of Atg8 uncovers its essential role in autophagy-mediated detoxification.

This study determined the crystal structure of the rice blast fungus autophagy protein MoAtg8 and used structure-guided virtual screening to identify small-molecule binders. The screen identified nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) as a MoAtg8-binding compound that inhibited conidial germination and appressorium formation, disrupted membrane integrity, and reduced pathogenicity. These results suggest NDGA (and related scaffolds) as a structure-based lead for targeting fungal autophagy to control plant infection.

Yan J, Zhu X, Li L et al. · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America · (2026) · View on PubMed ↗ · Free PDF ↗

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Generated automatically on October 17, 2026 from PubMed’s trending articles. Summaries are AI-generated; always consult the original publication for clinical or research decisions.