1.Phenomics of traditional Chinese medicine 2.0: the integration with digital medicine
Min Xu ; Xinyi Shao ; Donggeng Guo ; Xiaojing Yan ; Lei Wang ; Tao Yang ; Hao LIANG ; Qinghua PENG ; Lingyu Linda Ye ; Haibo Cheng ; Dayue Darrel Duan
Digital Chinese Medicine 2025;8(3):282-299
Abstract
Modern western medicine typically focuses on treating specific symptoms or diseases, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) emphasizes the interconnections of the body’s various systems under external environment and takes a holistic approach to preventing and treating diseases. Phenomics was initially introduced to the field of TCM in 2008 as a new discipline that studies the laws of integrated and dynamic changes of human clinical phenomes under the scope of the theories and practices of TCM based on phenomics. While TCM Phenomics 1.0 has initially established a clinical phenomic system centered on Zhenghou (a TCM definition of clinical phenome), bottlenecks remain in data standardization, mechanistic interpretation, and precision intervention. Here, we systematically elaborates on the theoretical foundations, technical pathways, and future challenges of integrating digital medicine with TCM phenomics under the framework of “TCM phenomics 2.0”, which is supported by digital medicine technologies such as artificial intelligence, wearable devices, medical digital twins, and multi-omics integration. This framework aims to construct a closed-loop system of “Zhenghou–Phenome–Mechanism–Intervention” and to enable the digitization, standardization, and precision of disease diagnosis and treatment. The integration of digital medicine and TCM phenomics not only promotes the modernization and scientific transformation of TCM theory and practice but also offers new paradigms for precision medicine. In practice, digital tools facilitate multi-source clinical data acquisition and standardization, while AI and big data algorithms help reveal the correlations between clinical Zhenghou phenomes and molecular mechanisms, thereby improving scientific rigor in diagnosis, efficacy evaluation, and personalized intervention. Nevertheless, challenges persist, including data quality and standardization issues, shortage of interdisciplinary talents, and insufficiency of ethical and legal regulations. Future development requires establishing national data-sharing platforms, strengthening international collaboration, fostering interdisciplinary professionals, and improving ethical and legal frameworks. Ultimately, this approach seeks to build a new disease identification and classification system centered on phenomes and to achieve the inheritance, innovation, and modernization of TCM diagnostic and therapeutic patterns.
2.Preparation,characterization and tissue distribution of polyethylene glycol-modified Curcumin solid lipid nanoparticle inhalable micropowder
Nan LI ; Zi WANG ; Di HAO ; Lingyu KONG ; Xu LI
China Pharmacy 2025;36(19):2387-2392
OBJECTIVE To prepare polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified flower lactose (FL) loaded Curcumin (Cur) solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) inhalable micropowder (referred to as “PEG-Cur-FL”). METHODS PEG-Cur-FL was prepared by the solvent emulsification diffusion low-temperature solidification method, and its encapsulation efficiency, drug loading capacity, powder properties, aerodynamic particle size, in vitro deposition properties, and in vitro release characteristics were characterized. The mice were divided into Cur-SLN-FL (unmodified with PEG) group and PEG-Cur-FL group, with 55 mice in each group. Both groups of mice were given a single inhalation of 5 mg/kg (calculated as Cur) of the corresponding drug micropowder through an air tube. At 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours after administration, eyeballs were removed to collect blood and tracheal, lung, liver and kidney tissues were separated. The mass concentration of Cur in mouse plasma and various tissue samples was measured, and the tissue distribution and retention of the drug were analyzed. RESULTS The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading capacity of PEG-Cur-FL were (86.2±1.8)% and (4.2±0.2)%, respectively; the bulk density and tap density were (0.24±0.01) g/cm3 and (0.30±0.01) g/cm3, respectively; the aerodynamic particle size was (2.74±0.64) μm; the in vitro effective site deposition rate (secondary drug deposition rate) was (45.07±2.79)%. Compared with Cur raw materials, Cur-SLN- FL and PEG-Cur-FL had sustained release effects under both leakage and non-leakage conditions, and PEG-Cur-FL had a smoother sustained release in artificial lung fluid, with release characteristics consistent with the Weibull model. The results of in vivo distribution showed that the drug concentration in the lung tissue of PEG-Cur-FL group was significantly lower than that of Cur- SLN-FL group during the same period after 1 hour of administration, while the drug concentration in the lung tissue at 4 to 48 hours was significantly higher than that of Cur-SLN-FL group during the same period (P<0.05); the plasma drug concentrations of the PEG-Cur-FL group at all time points from 0.25 to 12 hours were significantly lower than those of the Cur-SLN-FL group during the same period (P<0.05), and the drug concentrations in liver and kidney tissues were also lower than those of the Cur-SLN-FL group during the same period (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS PEG-Cur-FL is prepared successfully; the inhalable micropowder has good inhalability and release performance; after administration through the trachea, the effective concentration of Cur in lung tissue can be increased, while reducing its plasma drug concentration and drug distribution concentration in non-target organs.
4.Flavones in pomelo peel resist fibril formation of human islet amyloid polypeptide.
Cuiyun GAO ; Zhiruo WAN ; Yan LIU ; Yuting MENG ; Xu CHEN ; Xiaohan TANG ; Lingyu HANG ; Hailong YUAN
Chinese Herbal Medicines 2025;17(1):166-177
OBJECTIVE:
Exploring the formation and aggregation of human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) (amylin) fibers is significant for promoting the prevention and treatment of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Flavones in pomelo peel have visible biological activity in the anti-diabetes aspect. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of five flavones [naringin (NRG), narirutin (NRR), nobiletin (NOB), sinensetin (SIN), and neohesperidin (NHP)] in pomelo peel on peptide aggregation and explore its possible mechanisms. The cell viability of flavones against peptide aggregation was also evaluated.
METHODS:
The thioflavin T (ThT) assay and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used for evaluating the inhibition and disaggregation of flavones on peptide aggregation. The interaction mechanism was analyzed by endogenous fluorescence, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) experiments. The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and immune assays were performed to characterize the cell viability of flavones against peptide aggregation.
RESULTS:
The five flavones showed a decrease in fluorescence intensity, fiber number and size under incubation with different molar ratios of hIAPP. The compounds can bind to the aromatic tyrosine (Tyr) residueTyr 37, resulting in the intrinsic fluorescence quenching of the peptides. Five flavones can form hydrogen bonds with hIAPP, which is likely to be based on their phenolic hydroxyl structure. They showed strong binding affinity with peptides. The reaction system of NRG and NRR observed an exothermic reaction, and the others were endothermic reactions. The absorption peaks of the compounds with hIAPP changed and showed hypochromic effects, indicating that there may be π-π stacking interaction. Flavones noticeably increased the cell viability in the presence of amyloid peptides and reduced the absorption intensity induced by peptide oligomers.
CONCLUSION
A total of five flavones in pomelo peel have inhibitory and depolymerization effects on amyloid fibrils, and can significantly protect cells from the toxic effect of hIAPP and reduce the production of toxic oligomers.
5.Application progress of Satir communication model in nursing from the perspective of family support
Yimeng CHEN ; Yinning GUO ; Hanfei ZHU ; Kang ZHAO ; Ting XU ; Lidong HUANG ; Lingyu DING ; Jieman HU ; Qin XU
Chinese Journal of Nursing 2024;59(19):2413-2419
As a type of experiential psychotherapy,Satir communication model can help the individual system and the family system achieve a state from dysfunction to healthy function,which can enrich the intervention connotation of family support and provide a new direction for the realization of full-life circle care.This paper aims to introduce the concept,core elements,common treatment techniques,application and effects,current challenges and relevant suggestions of Satir communication model in the nursing field from the perspective of family support,in order to provide references for the localization development and clinical integration of Satir communication model in the field of nursing in China.
6.Effects of electroacupuncture at Fengchi(GB20)on motor function and GFAP/NeuN expression around the ischemic tissue of the motor cortex in MCAO rats
Lüjia CHEN ; Lingyu HAO ; Yingjie ZHANG ; Mingshu XU ; Yanping YANG
Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science 2024;22(5):363-370
Objective:To investigate the potential mechanism of electroacupuncture(EA)at bilateral Fengchi(GB20)in treating cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and to provide a scientific basis for future experimental research and clinical applications. Methods:Forty male specific-pathogen-free Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups:a normal group,a normal with EA group,a model group,and a model with EA group,with 10 rats in each group.The normal group received no intervention.The normal with EA group received EA at bilateral Fengchi(GB20).The model group underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)using the suture.The model with EA group underwent MCAO and received EA at bilateral Fengchi(GB20).Cerebral blood flow was monitored using a laser Doppler cerebral blood flow meter.Neurologic damage was assessed using the neurologic deficit score,and motor ability was observed using the CatWalk gait system.The expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein(GFAP)and neuronal nuclei(NeuN)protein,the neuron markers,was detected by Western blotting.The protein expression levels of GFAP and NeuN,as well as the number of positive cells in the motor cortex,were detected using immunofluorescence. Results:Compared to the normal group,the cerebral blood flow values in the model group and the model with EA group decreased by more than 50%during the modeling process(P<0.01)and returned to pre-modeling levels after reperfusion(P>0.05).The neurologic deficit score increased(P<0.05),the average motor velocity decreased(P<0.05),GFAP protein expression and the number of positive cells in the motor cortex increased(P<0.05),and the NeuN protein expression and the number of positive cells decreased(P<0.05)in the model group.Compared to the model group,the neurologic deficit score decreased(P<0.05),the average motor velocity accelerated(P<0.05),GFAP and NeuN protein expression and the number of positive cells in the motor cortex increased(P<0.01)in the model with EA group. Conclusion:EA at bilateral Fengchi(GB20)can reduce neuronal loss and increase GFAP and NeuN protein expression in the motor cortex of rats after ischemia-reperfusion,improve the motor function after ischemic stroke,and accelerate the recovery of balance and stability of the affected limbs.
7.Three-station OSCE skill assessment for standardized training of radiation oncology residents
Jishi LI ; Lingyu MA ; Qiongya LAN ; Tingyue LUO ; Ying HAN ; Zhiyuan XU ; Lee Wing Mui Anne
Chinese Journal of Radiation Oncology 2024;33(11):1064-1069
Objective:To conduct simulated graduation skill assessment and annual skill assessment by self-designed objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) for standardized training of radiation oncology residents.Methods:The structured examination, standardized questions and standardized tasks of each disease were designed by teaching team of radiation oncology in the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital. The implementation effect of the annual assessment and simulated completion assessment of standardized training for residents in radiation oncology from Class 2019 to 2021 was prospectively observed. The difference between scores by two independent examiners was analyzed by the paired t-test. The overall feedback of residents and examiners for the implementation were collected after the completion of OSCE. Results:A total of 18 residents participated in 67 sessions of 3-station skill assessments of different diseases, including 2 make-up tests. There was no difference in the score pairing and grade pairing tests between two examiners at 3 stations ( t=0.85, -0.68, -1.16; P=0.401, 0.499, 0.255). A total of 91.3% of the residents reported that the assessment well reflected their actual clinical competency. Conclusions:The current program of OSCE assessment for radiation oncology meets objectification, standardization and high efficiency, and achieves the goal of making trainers familiar with the graduation skill assessment and assessing comprehensive clinical competence. It is a reproducible and flexible structured assessment model.
8.Preparation of curcumin solid lipid nanoparticles inhalation powder loaded with nanoporous flower-shaped lactose and its in vitro inhibition effect on apoptosis
Nan LI ; Xu LI ; Peng CHENG ; Lingyu KONG ; Ping YANG
China Pharmacy 2023;34(2):150-155
OBJECTIVE To prepare the nanoporous flower-shaped lactose (FL)-loaded curcumin (Cur) solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) inhalation powder (Cur-SLN-FL), and to investigate its inhibition effect on LPS-induced apoptosis of BEAS- 2B cells. METHODS Using different kinds (lactose, sucrose, mannitol, trehalose) and different amounts (2%, 3%, 5%) of freeze-dried protectants as objects, the suspension of Cur-SLN was micronized by freeze-drying technology into lyophilized powder, which was then mixed with FL and sieved by a 200-mesh sieve to obtain Cur-SLN-FL. The physicochemical properties of Cur-SLN-FL was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and laser particle size analyzer. Using BEAS-2B cells cultured in vitro as objects, LPS-induced apoptosis and the changes of mitochondrial membrane potential after treatment of Cur-SLN-FL were detected by Annexin Ⅴ/PI double staining method and JC-1 kit. RESULTS With 3% trehalose as Cur-SLN freeze-dried protective agent, the freeze-dried powder obtained was compact and full in shape, did not shrink and collapse, and was uniform in color and light-yellow powder, which could be completely dissolved in 30 s. When FL and Cur-SLN freeze-dried powder were mixed at a ratio of 1∶2, it had a higher deposition rate of secondary distribution ([ 40.92±0.02)%]. SEM results showed that Cur-SLN-FL had a flower-shaped appearance with an average particle size of (4.95±0.57) μm and an aerodynamic particle size of (4.03±0.40) μm. The critical relative humidity of Cur-SLN-FL was about 54%, and the evacuation rate was (90.34 ± 1.21)%; the quantity of fine particles that could be inhaled by Cur-SLN-FL in the 2-7 receiving discs was (47.5±0.7)%, and the measured aerodynamic particle size was (4.33±0.08) μm. The LD50 of Cur-SLN-FL to BEAS-2B cells was 5.809 mg/mL. The apoptosis rate of model cells was significantly reduced after treatment of Cur-SLN-FL, and the mitochondrial membrane potential was significantly increased (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The preparation process of Cur-SLN-FL is simple and feasible. Cur-SLN-FL can improve LPS-induced apoptosis of BEAS-2B cells, and this effect is related to the regulation of mitochondrial membrane potential.
9.Effects and mechanism of Curcumin solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with flower-shaped lactose for inhalation on pulmonary inflammation in COPD model mice
Nan LI ; Xu LI ; Zi WANG ; Ping YANG ; Lingyu KONG
China Pharmacy 2023;34(14):1691-1696
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects and mechanism of curcumin (Cur) solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) loaded with flower-shaped lactose (Cur-SLN-FL) for lung inhalation on lung inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) model mice. METHODS Firstly, the irritation of Cur-SLN-FL to lung tissue was investigated, and the local safety of inhalation materials was determined. Then, 10 mice were randomly selected and injected with normal saline through the trachea, and the other 50 mice were all injected with porcine trypsin solution (concentration of 33.3 mg/mL, dosage of 1.0 mL/kg) to induce the COPD model. After normal feeding for 28 days, the mice were divided into sham operation group, model group, budesonide group (20 mg/kg), Cur-SLN-FL high-dose and low-dose groups (100, 50 mg/kg), with 10 mice in each group. The corresponding drugs were given to each group, once a day, for 14 consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of mice in each group was collected and the differential count of white blood cells was determined. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the histopathology of the trachea and lung tissue in each group. Masson staining was used to detect collagen deposition in the lung tissue of mice in each group. Immunohistochemical method was used to detect the positive expressions of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domains-like receptor protein-3 (NLRP3), caspase-1 and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in lung tissue of mice. Western blot assay was used to detect the protein expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1 and nuclear factor of kappa B(NF-κB) in lung tissue. RESULTS Cur-SLN-FL had no obvious pulmonary irritation. Compared with the sham operation group, the total number of white blood cells, neutrophils and eosinophils in BALF of the model group increased significantly, while the number of lymphocytes decreased significantly (P<0.05); ciliated columnar epithelium proliferated, thickened and exfoliated in the trachea, mucus accumulated in the cavity and interstitial inflammatory cells infiltrated in the lung tissue;the deposition of collagen fibers in lung tissue increased significantly, the positive expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1 and IL-1β in lung tissue increased significantly, and the expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1 and NF-κB protein in lung tissue all increased significantly (P<0.05). After giving Cur-SLN-FL, the above indexes were all improved to certain extent. CONCLUSIONS Cur-SLN-FL can improve the pulmonary inflammatory reaction in COPD model mice,and its mechanism may be through regulating the NLRP3 signaling pathway, inhibiting the expressions of caspase-1, NF-κB and IL-1β, thus alleviating the process of pulmonary fibrosis in COPD model mice.
10.Whole-brain mapping of histaminergic projections in mouse brain
Wenkai LIN ; Lingyu XU ; Yi WANG ; Zhong CHEN
Chinese Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology 2023;37(7):548-549
OBJECTIVE Histamine is a conserved neuromodulator in mammalian brains and critically involved in many physiological functions.Understanding the precise structure of histaminergic network is the cor-nerstone in elucidating its function.METHODS Herein,using novel HDC-CreERT2 mice and genetic labeling strategies,we reconstructed a whole brain 3D structure of histaminergic neurons and their outputs at 0.32×0.32×2 μm3 pixel resolution with a cutting-edge fluorescence micro-optical sectioning tomography system(fMOST).And we dissect an appetite control circuit originating from the TMN to medial septal nucleus(MS)using fiber photometry,optogenetics,and chemogenetics interfer-ence.RESULTS We quantified the fluorescence density of all brain areas and found that histaminergic fiber density varied significantly among brain regions.The density of histaminergic fiber was positively correlated with the amount of histamine release induced by optogenetic stim-ulation or physiological aversive stimulation.Moreover,we reconstructed fine morphological structure of 60 hista-minergic neurons via sparse labeling,and uncovered the largely heterogeneous projection pattern of individual his-taminergic neuron.Lastly,we found that MS-projecting histaminergic circuit is functionally inhibited during food consumption,and bidirectionally modulates feeding behavior via downstream H2,but not H1,receptors on MS glutamatergic neurons.CONCLUSION Collectively,this study reveals an unprecedented whole-brain quanti-tative analysis of histaminergic projections at the meso-scopic level,providing a foundation for future functional histaminergic study.And we also demonstrate that this MS-projecting histaminergic circuit is critically involved in feeding,and H2Rs in MS glutamatergic neurons is a promising target for treating body weight problems.

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