1.Construction and Evaluation of Mouse Model of Qi Deficiency and Phlegm Dampness Syndrome
Qichun ZHOU ; Gangxing ZHU ; Yongchun ZOU ; Baoyi LAN ; Zhanyu CUI ; Xi WANG ; Mengfei XU ; Qing TANG ; Sumei WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(4):138-146
ObjectiveQi deficiency and phlegm dampness syndrome is a common type of clinical traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) syndrome. However, there is no standard, scientific, and accurate report on the construction of animal models of Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness syndrome. This study aims to construct a mouse model of Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness syndrome by using a multi-factor composite modeling method and to evaluate the model. MethodsTwenty-one C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups with seven mice in each group, which were the normal group, model group, and Shenling Baizhusan (SLBZ) group. The control group was fed with ordinary diet and kept in a normal environment. The model group and SLBZ group were fed with a high-fat diet in a high-humidity environment. Swimming with heavy weights until exhaustion and gavage with cold water or lard were used to establish the mouse model of Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness syndrome. In order to test the syndrome by prescription, mice in the SLBZ group were treated with SLBZ for 14 days after model construction. The exhaustive swimming time, body weight, serum lipid levels, tongue changes, "Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness" assessment scale score, and cecal index of mice in each group were measured. The feces of each group of mice were sent for metagenomics and metabolome sequencing, and the changes in intestinal flora and metabolites were analyzed. ResultsAfter the modeling of Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness syndrome, the exhaustive swimming time of mice was obviously shortened (P<0.01). The serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol of mice were significantly increased (all P<0.01). The tongue of mice was significantly different from that of the normal group, and the score of the assessment scale was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.01). Cecal index decreased significantly (P<0.01). The serum lipid level, tongue image, assessment scale score, and cecal index were reversed in the SLBZ group. Metagenomic and metabolome sequencing results showed that intestinal flora and fecal metabolites were significantly changed in mice with Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness syndrome. Akkermansia_muciniphila, Faecalibaculum_rodentium, Eubacterium_plexicaudatum, Eubacterium sp 14_2, Candida glabrata, Romboutsia_ilealis, Turicibacter sp TS3, and other bacteria had significant changes, and the expressions of intestinal metabolites such as chenodeoxycholic acid, choline, L-phenylalanine betaine, and 2-phenylbutyric acid were significantly changed. Related metabolic pathways such as linoleic acid metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, lysine degradation, arginine biosynthesis, and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism were affected. ConclusionThe Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness model of mice can be constructed by the multi-factor composite modeling method of high-fat diet feeding, high-humidity environment feeding, exhaustive swimming with heavy weight, and intragastric administration with cold water or lard. The blood lipid level, tongue change, score of "Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness assessment scale", cecal index, and changes in related intestinal flora and metabolites of mice can be used as key indicators for model evaluation.
2.Development and evaluation of classification system for drug-related problems in China
Shuang ZOU ; Tingting LU ; Lei BAO ; Yun LIAO ; Ling LI ; Ping ZHANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(3):371-376
OBJECTIVE To establish a Chinese drug-related problem (DRP) classification system applicable to pharmacist-led pharmaceutical care in China, providing pharmacists with an effective and practical tool for pharmaceutical care. METHODS A multi-stage process was employed to construct the DRP classification system, including literature review and analysis, comparison of existing classification systems, refinement of classification items and framework development, two rounds of standard case validation, expert discussion, and system revision. The Fleiss′ kappa test was used to calculate the consistency coefficient κ, assessing the reliability of pharmacists participating in evaluating the classification system. An electronic questionnaire comprising six items was employed to evaluate the system’s applicability. RESULTS The constructed Chinese DRP classification system comprised six sections [problem(including potential problems), DRP evaluation, cause (including possible causes of potential problems), intervention, acceptance of intervention and DRP status], with 24 primary codes and 96 secondary codes. In the first round of case validation, κ values exceeded 0.4 for all sections except “intervention” and “DRP status”. In the second round, κ values exceeded 0.4 for all sections. In the applicability evaluation of the classification system, positive ratings (“strongly agree” or “agree”) exceeded 85% for all items. Specifically, positive ratings for“the classification system can provide appropriate category selection”,“ the classification system is comprehensive”,“ the classification system is convenient to use” and “the classification system is highly satisfactory” exceeded 92%. CONCLUSIONS The Chinese DRP classification system developed demonstrates both high reliability and applicability, providing an effective and practical classification tool for pharmacists in China to conduct pharmaceutical care.
3.Clinical manifestations of 604 elderly patients with severe acute respiratory tract infection in Pudong New Area
Qiwen CUI ; Wenxin YING ; Yuanping WANG ; Chuchu YE ; Zou CHEN
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2026;37(1):40-43
Objective To analyze the clinical manifestations of patients over 60 years old with acute respiratory infection in Pudong New Area of Shanghai and the risk factors of positive detection of novel coronavirus, and to provide reference for improving prevention and control strategies and measures. Methods General conditions, clinical features, basic complications and respiratory samples of inpatients over 60 years old with acute respiratory infection from eight hospitals in Pudong New Area of Shanghai from January to October 2023 were collected, and SARS-CoV-2 detection was carried out. Chi-square test and binary logistics regression were used for data analysis. Results A total of 604 patients over 60 years old were collected, including 356 (58.945) males with a median age of 77 (IQR:70-85) years. Of the 604 cases, 264 were detected positive for SARS-CoV-2, with a positive detection rate of 43.71%. The results of univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences in the detection rates of SARS-CoV-2 among different age groups (χ2=10.60, P=0.01) and different months (χ2=87.15, P=0.00), and among those with cough (χ2=5.28, P=0.02), sputum (χ2=4.19, P=0.04), sore throat (χ2=3.93, P=0.04), and hypertension (χ2=7.63, P=0.01). In the binary logistics regression analysis, month (P=0.00, OR=2.93, 95% CI=1.49-5.78) and age (P=0.00, OR=2.60, 95% CI=1.55-4.37) were independent risk factors for positive detection of SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion The majority of hospitalized cases of acute respiratory infection over 60 years old are male, and the risk factors for positive detection of novel coronavirus are age 80~89 years old and time between May and June.
4.Establishment and verification of an ELISA method for detection of porcine trypsin residues in reassortant rotavirus vaccine,live, oral, hexavalent (Vero cell)
Chinese Journal of Biologicals 2026;39(02):189-194+200
Objective To establish an ELISA method for the determination of porcine trypsin residues in reassortant rotavirus vaccine, live, oral, hexavalent(Vero cell) and verify the method, so as to control the quality of the products more comprehensively.Methods The absorbance values of standard and test solutions were determined at 450 nm. The concentration value of standard was used as independent variable X and the mean value of the absorbance value was used as dependent variable Y to establish a four-parameter linear regression equation. The porcine trypsin content of the test solution was calculated using the linear regression equation. The method was verified for linear range and detection limit, accuracy, precision,robustness and specificity. Results Porcine trypsin concentration showed good linearity in the range of 1. 56-100 ng/mL(R~2> 0. 99). The coefficients of variation(CVs) of single virus harvest solution and monovalent bulk solution in repeatability verification was 5% and 8%, and the CVs of single virus harvest solution and monovalent bulk solution in intermediate precision verification was 5% and 6%, respectively. In detection limit verification, the recovery rate was 102%-112% at the porcine trypsin concentration of 1. 56 ng/mL, with the CV of 4% and the quantification limit of 1. 56 ng/mL. In specificity verification, the recovery rates of the test solution diluted with bovine serum albumin(BSA) were 101%-102%, and the recovery rates of the test solution diluted with sucrose-phosphate-glutamate(SPG) buffer and DMEM were 90%-101%,indicating the excipients had no interference with the detection. The CVs of the results at different color development time and temperatures for robustness verification were less than 15%. In accuracy verification, the recovery rates of single virus harvest solution and monovalent bulk solution were within 86%-105% and 109%-117%, respectively.Conclusion The linear range and detection limit, accuracy, precision, robustness and specificity of the established ELISA method were all in line with the acceptance criteria and were suitable for the determination and quality control of the residual amount of porcine trypsin in reassortant rotavirus vaccine, live, oral, hexavalent(Vero cell).
5.A fetus with Neurodevelopmental disorders with deformed facial features and distal skeletal abnormalities due to a rare variant of ZMIZ1 gene and literature review.
Jinghui ZOU ; Haibo LI ; Lulu YAN
Chinese Journal of Medical Genetics 2026;43(4):295-300
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the clinical manifestations and genetic etiology of a fetus with Neurodevelopmental disorders with deformed facial features and distal skeletal abnormalities (NEDDFSA).
METHODS:
Clinical data of a NEDDFSA fetus diagnosed at the Affiliated Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Ningbo University in March 2025 was selected as the study subject. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was carried out on the amniotic fluid and parental peripheral blood samples, and candidate variants was verified by Sanger sequencing. The pathogenicity of candidate variant was rated based on guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the hospital (Ethics No.: EC2023-094).
RESULTS:
At 30 weeks of gestation, the fetus was found to have microcephaly, short femur and intrauterine growth restriction. WES revealed that the fetus harbored a de novo heterozygous frameshift variant c.2633dup (p.Gly879ArgfsTer22) of the ZMIZ1 gene, which was rated as pathogenic (PM2_Supporting+PS2_Supporting+PVS1). Combined with 25 cases from the literature, the main manifestations of patients have included intellectual disability, growth retardation and cranio-limb skeletal dysplasia, albeit without clear genotype-phenotype correlation.
CONCLUSION
The de novo variant c.2633dup (p.Gly879ArgfsTer22) of the ZMIZ1 gene probably underlay the NEDDFSA in this fetus. Genetic testing has enabled accurate prenatal diagnosis and provided evidence for genetic counseling and reproductive guidance of this family.
Humans
;
Female
;
Pregnancy
;
Neurodevelopmental Disorders/genetics*
;
Transcription Factors/genetics*
;
Fetus/abnormalities*
;
Exome Sequencing
;
Prenatal Diagnosis
6.Mechanisms of Jianpi Yangzheng Xiaozheng Prescription in Regulating USP51 to Inhibit Progression of Poorly Cohesive Gastric Carcinoma
Sitian LIN ; Yuanjie LIU ; Yi YIN ; Shenlin LIU ; Xi ZOU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(11):97-111
ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanisms by which Jianpi Yangzheng Xiaozheng prescription (JPYZXZ) treats poorly cohesive gastric carcinoma (PC-GC) through regulation of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 51 (USP51). MethodsIn vitro experiments: Cell viability and proliferation of PC-GC cell lines (MKN-45 and HGC-27) treated with different concentrations of JPYZXZ (2, 4, 6 g·L-1) were assessed using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays. Cell migration was evaluated by wound healing (scratch) and Transwell assays. The mRNA and protein expression levels of USP51, zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers (e.g., E-cadherin) were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (Real-time PCR) and Western blot, respectively. Subsequently, stable MKN-45 and HGC-27 cell lines with USP51 knockdown (sh-USP51) and overexpression (oe-USP51) were constructed. Their migration ability and EMT-related protein expression were further evaluated by scratch assay, Transwell assay, and Western blot. In vivo experiments: A subcutaneous xenograft model of MKN-45 human gastric cancer was established in BALB/c nude mice. Thirty mice were randomly divided into six groups (NC, NC + JPYZXZ, sh-USP51, sh-USP51 + JPYZXZ, oe-USP51, and oe-USP51 + JPYZXZ), with five mice in each group. After successful modeling, mice in the treatment groups were administered JPYZXZ (30 g·kg-1) by gavage for 28 days. Body weight and tumor volume were monitored during the experiment. The expression levels of USP51 and EMT-related proteins in tumor tissues were detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC). ResultsCompared with the blank group, the colony formation rate, wound healing rate, and number of migrated cells in MKN-45 and HGC-27 cells were significantly reduced in all JPYZXZ groups and the 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) group (P<0.05). The mRNA and protein expression levels of USP51 were decreased (P<0.05). The expression of ZEB1 and mesenchymal phenotype proteins (e.g., N-cadherin and vimentin) was reduced (P<0.05), whereas the expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin was increased (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, USP51 expression was decreased in the sh-USP51 group and increased in the oe-USP51 group (P<0.05). Compared with the NC group, USP51 knockdown significantly reduced the migration and proliferation of gastric cancer cells (P<0.01), decreased the expression of ZEB1 and EMT-related proteins, and increased E-cadherin expression (P<0.05). In vivo results showed that JPYZXZ significantly inhibited the growth of xenograft tumors in nude mice (P<0.05) and markedly reversed the abnormal expression of EMT-related proteins in tumor tissues (P<0.05). ConclusionThe therapeutic mechanisms of JPYZXZ in PC-GC may be associated with inhibition of the EMT process via regulation of the USP51-ZEB1 signaling pathway.
7.Preparation of bio-inspired dental crown materials with enhanced impact resistance and its in vitro biocompatibility research
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(2):355-361
ObjectiveTo prepare biomimetic nanocomposites, characterize their biomimetic structures, test their quasi-static mechanical properties, dynamic mechanical properties and biocompatibility, and to explore the possibility of them as biomimetic composite materials for oral crowns. MethodsThe microstructure of alumina microplatelets and kaolin particles was observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and metallographic microscopy. Alumina microplatelets were mixed with kaolin particles to form a ceramic slurry, which was then used to prepare a composite film via evaporation-induced self-assembly. The multilayer composite ceramic material was produced through pressureless sintering followed by organic polymer treatment. The microstructures before and after sintering, as well as after polymer infiltration, were observed using SEM. The organic content of the composite film was analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis. Phase composition changes before and after sintering were examined using X-ray diffraction. The compressive and flexural strengths of different groups with varying numbers of layers (specifically 50, 16, 8, 4, 2, and 1 layers) were tested using a universal mechanical testing machine. The energy dissipation performance of the different groups was evaluated through drop ball and drop hammer tests. The biocompatibility of the composite material was investigated using the CCK-8, live/dead cell staining, and cell adhesion experiments. ResultsThe ceramic framework (CF) exhibited a nacre-like structure internally, with clearly defined layered interfaces in the cross-section of the multilayer composite. The organic content increased proportionally with the number of layers. After sintering, the crystal phase underwent transformation, and internal crystal bonding occurred. As the number of layers increased, the compressive and flexural strengths showed a modest decline, while the energy dissipation performance improved significantly. The optimal results from the drop ball test and drop hammer test reached 80.64% and 11.65 kJ/m², respectively. No significant differences were observed in CCK-8 assays and live/dead cell staining between the blank control group and the material group. Cells adhered favorably to the composite material. ConclusionMultilayer composite ceramic materials exhibit excellent quasi-static mechanical properties, remarkable dynamic mechanical performance, and superior biological compatibility. It is verified that the hierarchically designed, nacre-like composite successfully fabricated in this work is anticipated to become a novel type of composite dental crown material for oral applications.
8.Applications of Lactoferrin and Its Nanoparticles in Cancer Therapy
Wen-Tian YUE ; Shu-Rong HE ; Qin AN ; Yun-Xia ZOU ; Wen-Wen DONG ; Qing-Yong MENG ; Ya-Li ZHANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):342-355
Cancer remains a leading cause of global mortality, necessitating the development of advanced therapeutic strategies with enhanced efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity. Among promising bioactive agents, lactoferrin (LF)—a multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein abundantly found in mammalian milk and exocrine secretions—has garnered significant interest for its potent and multifaceted anti-cancer properties. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current understanding of LF’s role in oncology, encompassing its structural biology, diverse mechanisms of action, and groundbreaking advancements in its application through nano-engineering. LF exerts anti-tumor effects through multiple pathways, including extracellular action, intracellular action, and immune regulation. It demonstrates a remarkable affinity for cancer cell membranes, binding to overexpressed anionic components such as glycosaminoglycans and sialic acids, as well as to specific receptors including the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP-1). This selective binding facilitates targeted uptake. Upon internalization, LF orchestrates a direct assault by inducing cell-cycle arrest in phases such as G0/G1 or S phase through the modulation of key regulators including cyclins, CDKs, and p53. Furthermore, it promotes programmed cell death via apoptotic pathways, involving caspase activation and downregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins such as survivin. A more recently elucidated mechanism is the induction of ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death characterized by overwhelming lipid peroxidation. Beyond direct cytotoxicity, LF acts as a potent immunomodulator. It enhances natural killer (NK) cell activity, modulates T-lymphocyte populations, and crucially reprograms tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) from a pro-tumor M2 state to an anti-tumor M1 state, thereby reversing the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). The translation of LF’s potential has been significantly accelerated by nanotechnology. The inherent biocompatibility and natural tumor-targeting capabilities of LF make it an ideal platform for sophisticated drug-delivery systems. This review details various fabrication strategies for LF-based nanoparticles (NPs), including self-assembly, sol-in-oil emulsion, and electrostatic nanocomplexes, among others. Research demonstrates that nano-formulations not only protect LF from degradation but also enhance its bioactivity and anti-cancer potency. More importantly, LF NPs serve as versatile carriers for a wide array of therapeutic agents, including conventional chemotherapeutics, natural compounds, and imaging agents. These engineered systems enable synergistic therapy and facilitate site-specific delivery. Notably, the ability of LF to bind to receptors on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) has been leveraged to develop nano-systems for glioblastoma treatment. Other innovative designs utilize LF to modulate the TME—for instance, by alleviating tumor hypoxia to sensitize cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite compelling pre-clinical evidence, the clinical translation of LF and its nano-formulations remains nascent. While early-phase trials have established a favorable safety profile for recombinant human LF, larger Phase III studies have yielded mixed results, underscoring the complexity of its action in humans. Key challenges include enhancing drug targeting, optimizing loading efficiency, ensuring batch-to-batch reproducibility, and achieving deep tumor penetration. Future research must focus on the rational design of next-generation LF-NPs. This entails developing standardized manufacturing protocols, engineering “smart” stimuli-responsive systems for targeted drug release in the TME, and constructing multi-targeting platforms. A concerted interdisciplinary effort is paramount to bridge the gap between bench and bedside. In conclusion, LF, particularly in its nano-engineered forms, represents a highly promising and versatile agent in the oncological arsenal, holding immense potential for precise and effective cancer therapy.
9.Applications of Lactoferrin and Its Nanoparticles in Cancer Therapy
Wen-Tian YUE ; Shu-Rong HE ; Qin AN ; Yun-Xia ZOU ; Wen-Wen DONG ; Qing-Yong MENG ; Ya-Li ZHANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):342-355
Cancer remains a leading cause of global mortality, necessitating the development of advanced therapeutic strategies with enhanced efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity. Among promising bioactive agents, lactoferrin (LF)—a multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein abundantly found in mammalian milk and exocrine secretions—has garnered significant interest for its potent and multifaceted anti-cancer properties. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current understanding of LF’s role in oncology, encompassing its structural biology, diverse mechanisms of action, and groundbreaking advancements in its application through nano-engineering. LF exerts anti-tumor effects through multiple pathways, including extracellular action, intracellular action, and immune regulation. It demonstrates a remarkable affinity for cancer cell membranes, binding to overexpressed anionic components such as glycosaminoglycans and sialic acids, as well as to specific receptors including the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP-1). This selective binding facilitates targeted uptake. Upon internalization, LF orchestrates a direct assault by inducing cell-cycle arrest in phases such as G0/G1 or S phase through the modulation of key regulators including cyclins, CDKs, and p53. Furthermore, it promotes programmed cell death via apoptotic pathways, involving caspase activation and downregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins such as survivin. A more recently elucidated mechanism is the induction of ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death characterized by overwhelming lipid peroxidation. Beyond direct cytotoxicity, LF acts as a potent immunomodulator. It enhances natural killer (NK) cell activity, modulates T-lymphocyte populations, and crucially reprograms tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) from a pro-tumor M2 state to an anti-tumor M1 state, thereby reversing the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). The translation of LF’s potential has been significantly accelerated by nanotechnology. The inherent biocompatibility and natural tumor-targeting capabilities of LF make it an ideal platform for sophisticated drug-delivery systems. This review details various fabrication strategies for LF-based nanoparticles (NPs), including self-assembly, sol-in-oil emulsion, and electrostatic nanocomplexes, among others. Research demonstrates that nano-formulations not only protect LF from degradation but also enhance its bioactivity and anti-cancer potency. More importantly, LF NPs serve as versatile carriers for a wide array of therapeutic agents, including conventional chemotherapeutics, natural compounds, and imaging agents. These engineered systems enable synergistic therapy and facilitate site-specific delivery. Notably, the ability of LF to bind to receptors on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) has been leveraged to develop nano-systems for glioblastoma treatment. Other innovative designs utilize LF to modulate the TME—for instance, by alleviating tumor hypoxia to sensitize cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite compelling pre-clinical evidence, the clinical translation of LF and its nano-formulations remains nascent. While early-phase trials have established a favorable safety profile for recombinant human LF, larger Phase III studies have yielded mixed results, underscoring the complexity of its action in humans. Key challenges include enhancing drug targeting, optimizing loading efficiency, ensuring batch-to-batch reproducibility, and achieving deep tumor penetration. Future research must focus on the rational design of next-generation LF-NPs. This entails developing standardized manufacturing protocols, engineering “smart” stimuli-responsive systems for targeted drug release in the TME, and constructing multi-targeting platforms. A concerted interdisciplinary effort is paramount to bridge the gap between bench and bedside. In conclusion, LF, particularly in its nano-engineered forms, represents a highly promising and versatile agent in the oncological arsenal, holding immense potential for precise and effective cancer therapy.
10.Research progress on oxidative stress in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy
Chinese Journal of Clinical Medicine 2026;33(2):313-320
Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO), the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease, is an autoimmune disorder affecting the orbital and periorbital tissues. Although the exact etiology of TAO remains to be fully elucidated, accumulating evidence has confirmed that oxidative stress plays a central role in driving its pathological progression. Oxidative stress not only directly damages orbital tissues but also promotes the initiation and development of the disease by modulating immune responses and tissue remodeling. In recent years, multiple studies demonstrate that antioxidants can ameliorate TAO symptoms by scavenging reactive oxygen species and alleviating orbital tissue oxidative damage. This review systematically summarizes the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of TAO, associated risk factors, and therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress, with the aim of providing new insights for the precise diagnosis and treatment of this disease.


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