1.TGF-β1-engineered Biomimetic Platelet Nanoparticles for Targeted Therapy of Ischemic Stroke
Li-Qi CHEN ; Tian-Fang KANG ; Guo-Jun HUANG ; Ting YIN ; Ai-Qing MA ; Lin-Tao CAI ; Hong PAN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):697-710
ObjectivePost-ischemic acute inflammation and the subsequent persistent dysregulation of the immune microenvironment represent major pathological drivers that aggravate neuronal injury and severely restrict functional recovery following ischemic stroke. Although current reperfusion therapies partially restore blood flow, they fail to effectively modulate the secondary inflammatory cascade and oxidative stress, which remain critical barriers to neurological restoration. To address this challenge, this study aimed to engineer and systematically evaluate a biomimetic nanosystem composed of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-loaded platelet membrane-camouflaged lipid nanoparticles (PLP). This nanosystem was designed to achieve dual lesion-targeted delivery and immune microenvironment remodeling. By verifying its spatiotemporal accumulation, anti-inflammatory activity, and neuroprotective efficacy, we sought to establish an integrated therapeutic strategy that simultaneously enables lesion targeting, immune regulation, and functional recovery after ischemic injury. MethodsThe physicochemical properties of PLP, including hydrodynamic particle size, zeta potential, structural stability, and morphology, were characterized using dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. The preservation of platelet membrane-derived adhesion and immunoregulatory proteins was confirmed by SDS-PAGE through comparative analysis of protein band profiles between PLP and native platelet membranes. The in vitro biological activities of PLP were evaluated using two complementary cellular models. LPS-induced M1-polarized RAW264.7 macrophages were employed to assess inflammatory modulation, while oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R)-induced BV2 microglial cells and SH-SY5Y neuronal cells were utilized to investigate neuroinflammatory regulation and neuronal protection. For in vivo validation, a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) mouse model was established to mimic ischemia-reperfusion injury. The spatiotemporal biodistribution and lesion-targeting capability of the PLP were monitored through live fluorescence imaging. Therapeutic efficacy was comprehensively evaluated by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunofluorescence analysis, body weight monitoring, and neurological severity score (NSS) assessment. ResultsPLP nanoparticles displayed a uniform spherical morphology, nanoscale particle size distribution, and stable negative surface charge, indicating favorable colloidal stability and circulation potential. SDS-PAGE results confirmed the effective retention of key platelet membrane proteins associated with endothelial adhesion, immune evasion, and inflammatory regulation, demonstrating the successful biomimetic construction. Optimal therapeutic concentrations were determined in OGD/R-induced BV2 cells, where PLP exhibited excellent cytocompatibility and anti-inflammatory activity.In vitro experiments demonstrated that PLP significantly inhibited the polarization of RAW264.7 macrophages toward the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype and markedly reduced neuronal apoptosis under ischemia-reperfusion conditions. In vivo fluorescence imaging revealed that PLP rapidly accumulated in the ischemic brain hemisphere and maintained prolonged retention for up to 7 d, suggesting enhanced lesion-specific targeting and sustained drug release. Compared with control group, PLP treatment significantly reduced cerebral infarct volume, attenuated reactive astrogliosis, improved weight recovery, and accelerated neurological functional restoration, as reflected by significantly improved NSS scores. ConclusionThis study establishes a multifunctional biomimetic nanoplatform that integrates platelet membrane-mediated active targeting with the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and neuroprotective properties of TGF-β1. The PLP system enables rapid lesion homing and long-term retention while synergistically regulating the post-stroke inflammatory microenvironment by suppressing pro-inflammatory immune activation, reducing neuronal apoptosis, and limiting excessive astrocyte reactivity. Importantly, this study proposes a conceptually therapeutic paradigm that combines targeted delivery with immune microenvironment remodeling to achieve comprehensive neurovascular protection. These findings provide strong experimental evidence supporting the translational potential of biomimetic nanotherapeutics as next-generation precision interventions for ischemic stroke.
2.Digital design combined with multi-materials for the repair of craniofacial bone defects: a case report and literature review
XU Yuxin ; LV Jun ; YIN Chuyuan ; TUO Yan ; XU Shuai
Journal of Prevention and Treatment for Stomatological Diseases 2026;34(6):565-575
Objective:
To explore the feasibility, precision, and clinical value of a personalized primary repair approach centered on digital design, integrating 3D printing technology with multiple materials such as titanium mesh, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and titanium plates, for complex craniofacial bone defects involving the skull, mandible, orbit, and zygoma resulting from traffic accidents, providing a reference for primary repair of clinically complex craniofacial bone defects.
Methods:
One patient who was admitted in September 2021 with multiple comminuted fractures of the right craniomaxillofacial region and large-area bone defects caused by a traffic accident was selected. Digital design was integrated throughout the entire repair process. First, preoperative computed tomography (CT) data were used for 3D reconstruction of the craniomaxillofacial region; then, based on the model, the anatomical contour of the healthy left side was reproduced via mirroring technology for the defects on the right side. A targeted repair plan was designed: 3D-printed PEEK material was used to reconstruct the right orbital floor and zygomaticomaxillary complex, a 0.6-mm-thick titanium mesh was adopted to repair the right skull defect, and a 2.0-mm-thick titanium plate was applied for rigid internal fixation of the mandibular fracture. A one-stage repair surgery was completed simultaneously. In addition, a literature review was conducted on studies related to the repair of complex combined craniomaxillofacial defects.
Results:
CT examination at 1 week postoperatively showed that the average fitting gap of the implants was 0.3 mm, and the symmetry difference of the facial contour was less than 5 mm. At 3 months postoperatively, the patient’s maximum mouth opening reached 38 mm, the occlusal relationship returned to normal, and the diplopia symptom completely disappeared. During the 6-month postoperative follow-up, no complications such as implant loosening, infection, or displacement occurred; the FACE-Q scale score was 91, indicating a high level of subjective patient satisfaction. The literature review indicated that digital design combined with 3D printing technology can significantly improve the accuracy of complex craniomaxillofacial bone defect reconstruction. PEEK material is suitable for the reconstruction of the orbital floor and zygomaticomaxillary complex. Titanium mesh and plates can ensure the stability of the reconstruction. Multi-materials combined reconstruction represents an important therapeutic strategy for such defects.
Conclusion
The individualized one-stage repair scheme, centered on digital design and combined with 3D printing technology and multi-materials (titanium mesh, PEEK, and titanium plates), can achieve precise anatomical reduction and simultaneous functional recovery for complex combined craniomaxillofacial bone defects caused by traffic accidents.
3.Unilateral biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion reduces paravertebral muscle atrophy and enhances recovery compared with Wiltse-transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in lumbar degenerative disease: a retrospective study in a Chinese cohort
Chong CHEN ; Jing ZHUANG ; Xiang LONG ; Xingchen ZHAO ; Jun OUYANG ; Jianxiong ZHUANG ; Shuaihao HUANG ; Xiaoqing ZHENG ; Yunbing CHANG ; Dong YIN ; Yongxiong HUANG
Asian Spine Journal 2026;20(2):232-243
Methods:
Fifty patients who underwent UBE-TLIF and 50 patients who underwent W-TLIF, each with >2 years of follow-up, were retrospectively analyzed. Outcomes included operative parameters, time to postoperative mobilization, paravertebral muscle atrophy and fat infiltration rates, clinical scores (Visual Analog Scale [VAS], Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], Japanese Orthopaedic Association [JOA]), modified Macnab criteria, fusion rates, and complications.
Results:
Compared with W-TLIF, the UBE-TLIF group had significantly less intraoperative blood loss, shorter operative times, and lower postoperative drainage volumes (p <0.05). The UBE-TLIF group showed faster postoperative recovery and shorter hospital stays. At 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, W-TLIF patients had higher multifidus and erector spinae atrophy, and greater paravertebral muscle fat infiltration (p <0.05). The UBE-TLIF group also had lower VAS and ODI scores at 1 year and 2 years (p <0.05) and fewer surgical complications (6% vs. 10%). Fusion rates (94% vs. 92%) and modified Macnab outcomes (88% vs. 86%) were comparable (p >0.05).
Conclusions
UBE-TLIF is associated with reduced intraoperative trauma, quicker recovery, and fewer complications. In the long-term, it better preserves paravertebral muscle integrity and provides superior pain and functional outcomes.
4.The Impact of Pcdh15 Deficiency on Cellular Energy Metabolism and Oxidative Stress, and Its Role and Mechanism in Hearing Loss
Ying LAN ; Yang WU ; Shijie ZHAO ; Jun TANG ; Xingming LIANG ; Tao HOU ; Lu PENG ; Yongpeng LI ; Xinxing ZHAO ; Shihua YIN
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2026;19(2):129-144
Objectives:
. This study aimed to explore the role of the Pcdh15 gene in hearing maintenance and to examine the effects of its deficiency on cochlear structure, cochlear function, and hearing loss in mice.
Methods:
. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to generate Pcdh15 knockout (KO) mice. Auditory function was evaluated using hearing tests, while histological approaches were employed to assess morphological changes in cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on cochlear tissue from postnatal day 18 (P18) wild-type (WT) and Pcdh15 KO mice to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These DEGs were subjected to functional annotation and pathway analysis, with particular emphasis on oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were quantified using flow cytometry and DCFH-DA assays.
Results:
. Pcdh15 KO mice exhibited progressive sensorineural hearing loss, which worsened to profound deafness by P18. Notably, cochlear hair cells and SGNs showed substantial loss and pronounced morphological abnormalities, particularly within the basal high-frequency region. RNA-seq analysis identified 1,359 DEGs, including 1,024 downregulated and 335 upregulated genes. Pathway analysis indicated that Pcdh15 deficiency was associated with inhibition of the OXPHOS pathway, potentially disrupting mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I, III, IV, and V and thereby impairing energy production and ATP metabolism. In addition, early-stage cochleae from KO mice demonstrated elevated ROS levels and increased oxidative stress, suggesting that redox imbalance may contribute to hearing damage.
Conclusion
. Pcdh15 plays a critical role in hearing maintenance. Its deficiency is associated with severe hearing loss and marked cochlear abnormalities, which are linked to inhibition of OXPHOS, disruption of energy metabolism, and exacerbation of oxidative stress. Together, these findings provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying hearing loss and suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
5.Research progress on pharmacological activities and mechanisms of farrerol
Siyuan XI ; Yin MA ; Yingying LIANG ; Wenwen LIAN ; Bingzhi MA ; Jun HE
China Pharmacy 2026;37(13):1768-1772
Farrerol is a dihydroflavone compound extracted from the dried leaves of Rhododendron dauricum belonging to the Ericaceae family. This article systematically reviews relevant research on farrerol both domestically and internationally, summarizes its pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action, and finds that it exerts cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protective effects by maintaining the homeostasis of vascular endothelial function and inhibiting vascular intimal hyperplasia; exerts renal protective effects by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway to reduce renal damage; exerts liver protective effects by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway, activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, improving insulin resistance, and reducing lipid deposition in the liver; exerts neuroprotective effects by activating the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, inhibiting the Toll-like receptor 4 and cyclic GMP-AMP synthase/stimulator of interferon genes signaling pathways to reduce neuroinflammatory damage; exerts bone protective effects by promoting tendon formation and inhibiting osteoclast differentiation; exerts antitumor effects by inducing tumor cell apoptosis and weakening tumor cell invasion and metastasis; and exerts antibacterial effects by downregulating α -toxin expression, interfering with β -lactamase/penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a), and inhibiting PBP2a oligomerization. Currently, research on the pharmacological effects of farrerol is still mainly focused on animal and cell experiments. Further mechanistic studies and clinical trials are needed to provide theoretical basis for its new drug development and clinical application.
6.Research progress on pharmacological activities and mechanisms of farrerol
Siyuan XI ; Yin MA ; Yingying LIANG ; Wenwen LIAN ; Bingzhi MA ; Jun HE
China Pharmacy 2026;37(13):1768-1772
Farrerol is a dihydroflavone compound extracted from the dried leaves of Rhododendron dauricum belonging to the Ericaceae family. This article systematically reviews relevant research on farrerol both domestically and internationally, summarizes its pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action, and finds that it exerts cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protective effects by maintaining the homeostasis of vascular endothelial function and inhibiting vascular intimal hyperplasia; exerts renal protective effects by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway to reduce renal damage; exerts liver protective effects by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway, activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, improving insulin resistance, and reducing lipid deposition in the liver; exerts neuroprotective effects by activating the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, inhibiting the Toll-like receptor 4 and cyclic GMP-AMP synthase/stimulator of interferon genes signaling pathways to reduce neuroinflammatory damage; exerts bone protective effects by promoting tendon formation and inhibiting osteoclast differentiation; exerts antitumor effects by inducing tumor cell apoptosis and weakening tumor cell invasion and metastasis; and exerts antibacterial effects by downregulating α -toxin expression, interfering with β -lactamase/penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a), and inhibiting PBP2a oligomerization. Currently, research on the pharmacological effects of farrerol is still mainly focused on animal and cell experiments. Further mechanistic studies and clinical trials are needed to provide theoretical basis for its new drug development and clinical application.
7.Association between executive function and emotional and behavioral problems among first-grade elementary school students
Chinese Journal of School Health 2026;47(7):922-925
Objective:
To explore the association between executive function and emotional and behavioral problems in first-grade elementary school students, so as to provide a reference for promoting children s mental health.
Methods:
From March to May 2024, 423 first-grade elementary school students from 6 primary schools aged 6-7 were selected by using stratified cluster random sampling in Shanxi, Shanghai, Shandong, Guangxi, Xinjiang, and Jiangxi. Data were collected by using the Executive Function Assessment Scale and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. An independent samples t-test was used to analyze differences in executive function of different genders and differences in emotional and behavioral problems among first-grade school students with varying executive function levels; a linear regression model was employed to analyze the association between children s executive function and emotional and behavioral problems.
Results:
A total of 42 first-grade elementary school students (9.9%) were identified as having executive function deficits. Students in the executive function deficit group scored higher on internalizing behavior (7.50±0.52), externalizing behavior (11.26±0.52), and total difficulties (18.52± 0.93 ) were significantly higher than those of children without deficits (4.37±0.14, 6.69±0.17, 10.64±0.27) ( t =5.79, 8.50, 9.23, all P <0.05). Results of linear regression analysis showed that, after controlling for relevant covariates such as gender, age, family economic status, being an only child, and body mass index, the factor scores, dimensional scores, and total scores of executive function were all positively correlated with scores for externalizing problems, internalizing problems, and total difficulties ( β =0.07-0.32, all P <0.05).
Conclusions
Children s executive function is closely associated with emotional and behavioral problems, and those with poorer executive function exhibit more pronounced emotional and behavioral problems. Improving children s executive function may help promote their mental health.
8.The role of health related physical fitness in the improvement of depressive symptoms through combined aerobic and resistance exercise among senior high school freshmen
ZHANG Ting, YIN Xiaojian, LIU Yuan, GUO Yaru, HONG Jun, LI Xiuping, ZHU Xiao
Chinese Journal of School Health 2026;47(8):1132-1136
Objective:
To examine the effects of combined aerobic and resistance exercise on health related physical fitness (HPF) and depressive symptoms among senior high school freshmen, and to examine whether HPF mediates the relationship between exercise intervention and depressive symptoms, so as to provide a scientific basis for the coordinated promotion of mental health and physical fitness in schools.
Methods:
In March 2022, 190 senior high school freshmen from a secondary school of Suzhou in Anhui Province were selected by the random cluster sampling method and randomly assigned to an intervention group ( n = 99) and a control group ( n =91). The control group maintained routine activities, while the intervention group underwent a 10 week combined aerobic and resistance exercise program, three sessions per week, 40 minutes per session. Height, weight, standing long jump, sit ups, 20 m shuttle run, and sit and reach were measured before and after the intervention. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), Mann-Whitney U test, and Wilcoxon test were employed to compare outcomes before and after the intervention, and mediation analysis was conducted.
Results:
After controlling for pre test scores, ANCOVA results showed that compared with the control group, the intervention group demonstrated the following post intervention changes: a lower body mass index of 0.1 kg/m 2 among girls; higher standing long jump (13.2 cm for boys, 7.4 cm for girls), higher sit ups (5.5 reps for boys, 3.7 reps for girls), higher 20 m shuttle run (7.4 times for boys, 5.1 times for girls), and higher sit and reach (3.2 cm for boys, 0.4 cm for girls) ( F =17.88-84.44); and lower CES-D scores (5.5 for boys, 4.0 for girls) ( Z =-2.51, -2.06) (all P <0.05). The indirect effect of HPF in the relationship between combined aerobic and resistance exercise and depressive symptoms was -2.11, supporting a partial mediation effect ( P < 0.01 ).
Conclusions
Combined aerobic and resistance exercise improves HPF and alleviates depressive symptoms to varying degrees among senior high school freshmen. HPF served as a partial mediator through which exercise intervention reduces depressive symptoms.
9.USP20 as a super-enhancer-regulated gene drives T-ALL progression via HIF1A deubiquitination.
Ling XU ; Zimu ZHANG ; Juanjuan YU ; Tongting JI ; Jia CHENG ; Xiaodong FEI ; Xinran CHU ; Yanfang TAO ; Yan XU ; Pengju YANG ; Wenyuan LIU ; Gen LI ; Yongping ZHANG ; Yan LI ; Fenli ZHANG ; Ying YANG ; Bi ZHOU ; Yumeng WU ; Zhongling WEI ; Yanling CHEN ; Jianwei WANG ; Di WU ; Xiaolu LI ; Yang YANG ; Guanghui QIAN ; Hongli YIN ; Shuiyan WU ; Shuqi ZHANG ; Dan LIU ; Jun-Jie FAN ; Lei SHI ; Xiaodong WANG ; Shaoyan HU ; Jun LU ; Jian PAN
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 2025;15(9):4751-4771
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a highly aggressive hematologic malignancy with a poor prognosis, despite advancements in treatment. Many patients struggle with relapse or refractory disease. Investigating the role of the super-enhancer (SE) regulated gene ubiquitin-specific protease 20 (USP20) in T-ALL could enhance targeted therapies and improve clinical outcomes. Analysis of histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) data from six T-ALL cell lines and seven pediatric samples identified USP20 as an SE-regulated driver gene. Utilizing the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) and BloodSpot databases, it was found that USP20 is specifically highly expressed in T-ALL. Knocking down USP20 with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) increased apoptosis and inhibited proliferation in T-ALL cells. In vivo studies showed that USP20 knockdown reduced tumor growth and improved survival. The USP20 inhibitor GSK2643943A demonstrated similar anti-tumor effects. Mass spectrometry, RNA-Seq, and immunoprecipitation revealed that USP20 interacted with hypoxia-inducible factor 1 subunit alpha (HIF1A) and stabilized it by deubiquitination. Cleavage under targets and tagmentation (CUT&Tag) results indicated that USP20 co-localized with HIF1A, jointly modulating target genes in T-ALL. This study identifies USP20 as a therapeutic target in T-ALL and suggests GSK2643943A as a potential treatment strategy.
10.The impact of Anchor, a home visitation programme for maltreated children, on child developmental and behavioural outcomes.
Shi Hua CHAN ; Jean Yin OH ; Li Ming ONG ; Wen Hann CHOW ; Oh Moh CHAY ; Salam SOLIMAN ; Lourdes Mary DANIEL ; Pratibha AGARWAL ; Charmain Samantha TAN ; Jun Lin SAI ; Joanne Ferriol ESPECKERMAN ; Rehena SULTANA ; Cong Jin Wilson LOW ; Sita Padmini YELESWARAPU
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore 2025;54(4):208-218
INTRODUCTION:
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with significant long-term impacts, yet few interventions specifically target ACE exposure, especially in Asian populations. Anchor, Singapore's first home visitation programme, addresses maltreat-ment among preschool children. This study evaluated Anchor's impact on children's developmental and behavioural outcomes.
METHOD:
We conducted a prospective evaluation of children under 4 years assessed for maltreatment from November 2019 to July 2023. Developmental and behavioural progress was measured every 6 months using the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ-3) and ASQ:Social-Emotional (ASQ:SE-2), and annually using the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL).
RESULTS:
The results of 125 children (mean age 20.0 months, 48% female) were analysed. The mean length of stay in programme was 21.2 (7.3) months. At baseline, 92 (73.6%) children were at risk of develop-mental delay and 25 (31.7%) children aged ≥18 months had behavioural concerns. The programme was associated with significant improvements in gross motor (P=0.002) and fine motor (P=0.001) domains of the ASQ-3 and internalising problem scale (P=0.001) of the CBCL.
CONCLUSION
Anchor effectively enhances develop-mental and behavioural outcomes for children exposed to maltreatment. Targeted early intervention through such programmes can mitigate adverse impacts, optimising developmental trajectories and potentially reducing the long-term clinical and economic burdens associated with ACEs.
Humans
;
Female
;
Male
;
Child Abuse/therapy*
;
Child, Preschool
;
Singapore
;
House Calls
;
Infant
;
Prospective Studies
;
Child Development
;
Developmental Disabilities/epidemiology*
;
Program Evaluation
;
Child Behavior Disorders
;
Child Behavior


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