1.Analysis of factors influencing the achievement of target vancomycin plasma concentration and construction of a predictive model in patients from high-altitude regions: a single-center retrospective study
Ya’e CHANG ; NI ZHAO ; Zhilan HUAN ; Guiqin XU ; Xue WU ; Yafeng WANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(2):198-203
OBJECTIVE To analyze the influencing factors for achieving target plasma drug concentration (trough) (abbreviated as “PDC”) of vancomycin in patients from high-altitude regions and establish a predictive model for PDC using single- center data, providing references for rational clinical drug use. METHODS Inpatients with vancomycin (1 g, q12 h) administered intravenously in our hospital from January 2021 to June 2024 were retrospectively included. Demographic data, liver and kidney function and hematological indexes were collected. Spearman correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between vancomycin PDC and each detection index. Univariate analysis was used to evaluate the differences of each index in patients with different PDC, and the effects of different gender, body mass index, age and underlying diseases (hypertension/diabetes) on vancomycin PDC. Based on the results of correlation analysis and univariate analysis, multiple linear stepwise regression analysis was used to obtain the independent predictors of vancomycin PDC and construct the prediction model. RESULTS A total of 141 patients were included, with an overall attainment rate of 46.81% for the target PDC of vancomycin. Correlation analysis showed that the vancomycin PDC was positively correlated with age, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid (UA), serum creatinine (CRE) and β2- microglobulin (β2-MG), and negatively correlated with height, weight, creatinine clearance rate (CCR), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), alanine transaminase (ALT), hemoglobin (HGB), white blood cell count and neutrophils (P<0.05). There were significant differences in age, CRE and other 14 indexes among different PDC groups (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Age and underlying diseases had significant effects on vancomycin PDC (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CCR, direct bilirubin (DBil), β2-MG, UA, HGB and height (standardized coefficients were -0.371, 0.367, 0.169, 0.232, -0.140, -0.132; P<0.05) were independent predictors of vancomycin PDC. The F value of the regression equation was 34.858 (P<0.05), the R2 was 0.610, and the adjusted R2 was 0.592. CONCLUSIONS The vancomycin PDC of patients in high-altitude regions is affected by multiple factors such as renal function, liver function and hematological indexes. CCR, HGB and height could be used to predict vancomycin PDC negatively, while DBil, β2-MG and UA could be used to predict vancomycin PDC positively. The variables of the established prediction model could explain 59.2% of the variation of vancomycin PDC.
2.Fibroblast Growth Factors in Parkinson’s Disease: Multi-target Neuroprotective Mechanisms Involving Neuroinflammation, Cellular Stress, and Ferroptosis
Hui WANG ; Zi-Gui ZHOU ; Teng-Teng HAN ; Chang-Zhi YANG ; Xue-Wen TIAN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(4):855-874
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the selective loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the pathological accumulation ofα‑synuclein. Although extensive progress has been made in elucidating its pathogenesis, current therapeutic approaches remain largely symptomatic, and effective disease-modifying treatments are still unavailable. Increasing evidence indicates that PD is driven by the interaction of multiple pathological processes, including neuroinflammation, iron homeostasis dysregulation and ferroptosis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and impaired protein homeostasis, which together contribute to neuronal vulnerability and degeneration. Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) comprise a family of 22 ligands that play important roles in neural development, stress responses, metabolic regulation, and the maintenance of nervous system homeostasis. Recent studies have shown that several FGF family members, such as FGF1, FGF2, FGF9, and FGF21, exert neuroprotective effects in cellular and animal models of PD. These effects include the regulation of inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, iron homeostasis, cellular stress adaptation, and neuronal survival. Compared with therapeutic strategies targeting a single pathogenic pathway, FGFs appear to influence multiple disease-related processes, suggesting their potential relevance to the complex pathophysiology of PD. Experimental evidence indicates that altered FGF signaling may contribute to dopaminergic neuron dysfunction through the coordinated regulation of several interconnected mechanisms. FGFs have been reported to modulate neuroinflammation by affecting the activation of microglia and astrocytes, thereby influencing the inflammatory environment in the central nervous system. In addition, FGFs are involved in the regulation of iron homeostasis and ferroptosis, partly through antioxidant signaling pathways associated with NRF2, SLC7A11, and GPX4. Moreover, FGFs can alleviate ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction by activating intracellular signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, AMPK-PGC-1α, as well as SIRT1-dependent programs, which support cellular energy metabolism and redox balance. Recent advances in single-cell and spatial transcriptomic studies further suggest that FGF signaling is not limited to neuron-intrinsic mechanisms but also involves interactions among different glial cell types. Altered FGF ligand-receptor communication between astrocytes and oligodendrocytes has been observed in PD models and is associated with increased susceptibility of dopaminergic neurons to oxidative stress and ferroptosis. These findings indicate that the biological effects of FGFs are influenced by cell type and disease stage and may vary under different pathological conditions. In this review, we summarize recent progress in understanding the roles of FGF family members in PD, with a focus on their involvement in iron homeostasis dysregulation and ferroptosis, neuroinflammation, cellular stress responses, and neuronal protection and regeneration. By integrating current evidence, this review aims to provide a clearer understanding of how FGFs participate in PD pathogenesis and to offer a theoretical basis for future studies exploring their potential value in disease-modifying therapeutic strategies.
3.The first record of Anopheles messeae (Diptera: Culicidae) parasitized by water mites in China
Xue-ru CHEN ; Wen-zhen YAO ; Yu-hao LI ; Gui-chang LI ; Tao MENG ; Qun-ling FENG ; Xin-hui LIU ; Li-hong QIAO ; Xiang-ting WU ; Xue-feng ZHANG ; Cheng-lin LI ; Xue-cheng DONG ; Da-wei WANG ; Xiao-yan SI ; Yu-hong GUO
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(1):53-57
Objective This study reports on the obligatory parasitism of water mites Arrenurus sp. on Anopheles messeae at the Manzhouli Port, Inner Mongolia, China. Methods Duing July 2024, a survey on the mosquito diversity was conducted at the Manzhouli Port. Captured mosquitoes and their ectoparasites were identified to species level. Results A total of 1840 adult mosquitoes were collected, representing species from three genera: Culex(Cx. modestus, Cx. pipiens pallens), Aedes(Ae. dorsalis, Ae. flavidorsalis, Ae. flavescens), and Anopheles (An. messeae). Among all the mosqutioes specimens,3 out of 150 captured An. messeae were found to carry ectoparasitic mites, with number of 2,4,27 mites separately. Morphological and molecular identification reached the same result as water mites(Hydrachnidiae, Hydracrina). COI gene sequence showed 94% similarity with the closest species Arrenurus truncatellus. Conlusions Literature review suggests water mites are host-specific parasitism of mosquito species and herein with the first record of Arrenurus sp. parasiting on An. Messeae in the most high-latitude region globally.
4.The Role of NEAT1 in Bone and Cartilage Metabolism and Bone Diseases
Rui-Ming WEN ; Rui-Qi HUANG ; Yi-Xing CHANG ; Ke XU ; Xue-Jie YI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(4):930-945
In the process of maintaining the steady state of bone tissue, the transcription network and signal pathway of the body play a vital role. These complex regulatory mechanisms need precise coordination to ensure the balance between bone formation and bone absorption. Once this balance is broken, it may lead to pathological changes of bone and cartilage, and then lead to various bone diseases. Therefore, it is of great significance to understand these regulatory mechanisms for the prevention and treatment of bone diseases. In recent years, with the deepening of research, more and more lncRNA has been found to be closely related to bone health. Among them, nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1), as an extremely abundant RNA molecule in mammalian nuclei, has attracted extensive attention. NEAT1 is mainly transcribed from a specific site in human chromosome 11 by RNA polymerase II (RNaseP), which can form two different subtypes NEAT1_1 and NEAT1_2. These two subtypes are different in intracellular distribution and function, but they participate in many biological processes together. Studies have shown that NEAT1 plays a specific role in the process of cell growth and stress response. For example, it can regulate the development of osteoblasts (OB), osteoclasts (OC) and chondrocytes by balancing the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), thus maintaining the steady state of bone metabolism. This discovery reveals the important role of NEAT1 in bone development and remodeling. In addition, NEAT1 is closely related to a variety of bone diseases. In patients with bone diseases such as osteoporosis (OP), osteoarthritis (OA) and osteosarcoma (OS), the expression level of NEAT1 is different. These differential expressions may be closely related to the pathogenesis and progression of bone diseases. By regulating the level of NEAT1, it can affect a variety of signal transduction pathways, and then affect the development of bone diseases. For example, some studies show that by regulating the expression level of NEAT1, the activity of osteoclasts can be inhibited, and the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts can be promoted, thus improving the symptoms of osteoporosis. It is worth noting that NEAT1 can also be used as a key sensor for the prevention and treatment of bone diseases. When exercising or receiving some natural products, the expression level of NEAT1 will change, thus reflecting the response of bones to external stimuli. This feature makes NEAT1 an important target for studying the prevention and treatment strategies of bone diseases. However, although the role of NEAT1 in bone biology and bone diseases has been initially recognized, its specific mechanism and regulatory relationship are still controversial. For example, the expression level, mode of action and interaction with other molecules of NEAT1 in different bone diseases still need further in-depth study. This paper reviews the role of NEAT1 in maintaining bone and cartilage metabolism, and discusses its expression and function in various bone diseases. By combing the existing research results and controversial points, this paper aims to provide new perspectives and ideas for the prevention and treatment of bone diseases, and provide useful reference and enlightenment for future research.
5.PDGF-C: an Emerging Target in The Treatment of Organ Fibrosis
Chao YANG ; Zi-Yi SONG ; Chang-Xin WANG ; Yuan-Yuan KUANG ; Yi-Jing CHENG ; Ke-Xin REN ; Xue LI ; Yan LIN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1059-1069
Fibrosis, the pathological scarring of vital organs, is a severe and often irreversible condition that leads to progressive organ dysfunction. It is particularly pronounced in organs like the liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart. Despite its clinical significance, the full understanding of its etiology and complex pathogenesis remains incomplete, posing substantial challenges to diagnosing, treating, and preventing the progression of fibrosis. Among the various molecular players involved, platelet-derived growth factor-C (PDGF-C) has emerged as a crucial factor in fibrotic diseases, contributing to the pathological transformation of tissues in several key organs. PDGF-C is a member of the PDGFs family of growth factors and is synthesized and secreted by various cell types, including fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells. It acts through both autocrine and paracrine mechanisms, exerting its biological effects by binding to and activating the PDGF receptors (PDGFRs), specifically PDGFRα and PDGFRβ. This binding triggers multiple intracellular signaling pathways, such as JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT and Ras-MAPK pathways. which are integral to the regulation of cell proliferation, survival, migration, and fibrosis. Notably, PDGF-C has been shown to promote the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts, key effector cells in the fibrotic process, thus accelerating the accumulation of extracellular matrix components and the formation of fibrotic tissue. Numerous studies have documented an upregulation of PDGF-C expression in various fibrotic diseases, suggesting its significant role in the initiation and progression of fibrosis. For instance, in liver fibrosis, PDGF-C stimulates hepatic stellate cell activation, contributing to the excessive deposition of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins. Similarly, in pulmonary fibrosis, PDGF-C enhances the migration of fibroblasts into the damaged areas of lungs, thereby worsening the pathological process. Such findings highlight the pivotal role of PDGF-C in fibrotic diseases and underscore its potential as a therapeutic target for these conditions. Given its central role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis, PDGF-C has become an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Several studies have focused on developing inhibitors that block the PDGF-C/PDGFR signaling pathway. These inhibitors aim to reduce fibroblast activation, prevent the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components, and halt the progression of fibrosis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of such inhibitors in animal models of liver, kidney, and lung fibrosis, with promising results in reducing fibrotic lesions and improving organ function. Furthermore, several clinical inhibitors, such as Olaratumab and Seralutinib, are ongoing to assess the safety and efficacy of these inhibitors in human patients, offering hope for novel therapeutic options in the treatment of fibrotic diseases. In conclusion, PDGF-C plays a critical role in the development and progression of fibrosis in vital organs. Its ability to regulate fibroblast activity and influence key signaling pathways makes it a promising target for therapeutic strategies aiming at combating fibrosis. Ongoing research into the regulation of PDGF-C expression and the development of PDGF-C/PDGFR inhibitors holds the potential to offer new insights and approaches for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of fibrotic diseases. Ultimately, these efforts may lead to the development of more effective and targeted therapies that can mitigate the impact of fibrosis and improve patient outcomes.
6.In situ Analytical Techniques for Membrane Protein Interactions
Zi-Yuan KANG ; Tong YU ; Chao LI ; Xue-Hua ZHANG ; Jun-Hui GUO ; Qi-Chang LI ; Jing-Xing GUO ; Hao XIE
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1206-1218
Membrane proteins are integral components of cellular membranes, accounting for approximately 30% of the mammalian proteome and serving as targets for 60% of FDA-approved drugs. They are critical to both physiological functions and disease mechanisms. Their functional protein-protein interactions form the basis for many physiological processes, such as signal transduction, material transport, and cell communication. Membrane protein interactions are characterized by membrane environment dependence, spatial asymmetry, weak interaction strength, high dynamics, and a variety of interaction sites. Therefore, in situ analysis is essential for revealing the structural basis and kinetics of these proteins. This paper introduces currently available in situ analytical techniques for studying membrane protein interactions and evaluates the characteristics of each. These techniques are divided into two categories: label-based techniques (e.g., co-immunoprecipitation, proximity ligation assay, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, resonance energy transfer, and proximity labeling) and label-free techniques (e.g., cryo-electron tomography, in situ cross-linking mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, nuclear magnetic resonance, and structure prediction tools). Each technique is critically assessed in terms of its historical development, strengths, and limitations. Based on the authors’ relevant research, the paper further discusses the key issues and trends in the application of these techniques, providing valuable references for the field of membrane protein research. Label-based techniques rely on molecular tags or antibodies to detect proximity or interactions, offering high specificity and adaptability for dynamic studies. For instance, proximity ligation assay combines the specificity of antibodies with the sensitivity of PCR amplification, while proximity labeling enables spatial mapping of interactomes. Conversely, label-free techniques, such as cryo-electron tomography, provide near-native structural insights, and Raman spectroscopy directly probes molecular interactions without perturbing the membrane environment. Despite advancements, these methods face several universal challenges: (1) indirect detection, relying on proximity or tagged proxies rather than direct interaction measurement; (2) limited capacity for continuous dynamic monitoring in live cells; and (3) potential artificial influences introduced by labeling or sample preparation, which may alter native conformations. Emerging trends emphasize the multimodal integration of complementary techniques to overcome individual limitations. For example, combining in situ cross-linking mass spectrometry with proximity labeling enhances both spatial resolution and interaction coverage, enabling high-throughput subcellular interactome mapping. Similarly, coupling fluorescence resonance energy transfer with nuclear magnetic resonance and artificial intelligence (AI) simulations integrates dynamic structural data, atomic-level details, and predictive modeling for holistic insights. Advances in AI, exemplified by AlphaFold’s ability to predict interaction interfaces, further augment experimental data, accelerating structure-function analyses. Future developments in cryo-electron microscopy, super-resolution imaging, and machine learning are poised to refine spatiotemporal resolution and scalability. In conclusion, in situ analysis of membrane protein interactions remains indispensable for deciphering their roles in health and disease. While current technologies have significantly advanced our understanding, persistent gaps highlight the need for innovative, integrative approaches. By synergizing experimental and computational tools, researchers can achieve multiscale, real-time, and perturbation-free analyses, ultimately unraveling the dynamic complexity of membrane protein networks and driving therapeutic discovery.
7.Mechanism of Aerobic Exercise in Delaying Brain Aging in Aging Mice by Regulating Tryptophan Metabolism
De-Man ZHANG ; Chang-Ling WEI ; Yuan-Ting ZHANG ; Yu JIN ; Xiao-Han HUANG ; Min-Yan ZHENG ; Xue LI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(6):1362-1372
ObjectiveTo explore the molecular mechanism of aerobic exercise to improve hippocampal neuronal degeneration by regulating tryptophan metabolic pathway. Methods60 SPF-grade C57BL/6J male mice were divided into a young group (2 months old, n=30) and a senile group (12 months old, n=30), and each group was further divided into a control group (C/A group, n=15) and an exercise group (CE/AE group, n=15). An aerobic exercise program was used for 8 weeks. Learning memory ability was assessed by Y-maze, and anxiety-depression-like behavior was detected by absent field experiment. Hippocampal Trp levels were measured by GC-MS. Nissl staining was used to observe the number and morphology of hippocampal neurons, and electron microscopy was used to detect synaptic ultrastructure. ELISA was used to detect the levels of hippocampal Trp,5-HT, Kyn, KATs, KYNA, KMO, and QUIN; Western blot was used to analyze the activities of TPH2, IDO1, and TDO enzymes. ResultsGroup A mice showed significant decrease in learning and memory ability (P<0.05) and increase in anxiety and depressive behaviors (P<0.05); all of AE group showed significant improvement (P<0.05). Hippocampal Trp levels decreased in group A (P<0.05) and increased in AE group (P<0.05). Nidus vesicles were reduced and synaptic structures were degraded in group A (P<0.05), and both were significantly improved in group AE (P<0.05). The levels of Trp, 5-HT, KATs, and KYNA were decreased (P<0.05) and the levels of Kyn, KMO, and QUIN were increased (P<0.05) in group A. The activity of TPH2 was decreased (P<0.05), and the activities of IDO1 and TDO were increased (P<0.05). The AE group showed the opposite trend. ConclusionThe aging process significantly reduces the learning memory ability and increases the anxiety-depression-like behavior of mice, and leads to the reduction of the number of nidus vesicles and degenerative changes of synaptic structure in the hippocampus, whereas aerobic exercise not only effectively enhances the spatial learning memory ability and alleviates the anxiety-depression-like behavior of aging mice, but also improves the morphology and structure of neurons in hippocampal area, which may be achieved by the mechanism of regulating the tryptophan metabolic pathway.
8.Evaluation of donor ALT screening strategies based on random sampling simulation with large sample sizes
Liqin HUANG ; Yuanye XUE ; Le CHANG ; Lunan WANG ; Jinfeng ZENG
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2025;38(8):1094-1100
Objective: To comprehensively evaluate the current alanine aminotransferase (ALT) screening strategies and provide a basis for their optimization. Methods: ALT test results of 21 345 blood samples were collected from 33 blood collection institutions. Multiple probability distribution functions were employed to fit the data, and the akaike information criterion (AIC) was used to determine the optimal fitting model. Based on this model, 1 million random samplings were conducted to simulate the final ALT test results of blood donors under different ALT screening strategies, eligibility criteria, and pre-donation ALT detection deviations. A decision tree was subsequently constructed for health economic analysis. Results: The log-normal distribution with a mean of 2.96 and a variance of 0.65 provided the best fit for the data. When the eligibility criteria was 50 U/L and the pre-donation detection deviation was ±20%, not conducting pre-donation testing increased blood donation by 1.14%. When the pre-donation detection deviation was ±20% and the eligibility criteria was raised from 50 U/L to 100 U/L, conducting and not conducting pre-donation testing increased blood donation by 7.59% and 6.60%, respectively. With a eligibility criteria of 50 U/L and a pre-donation detection deviation of ±20%, 1.14% of eligible blood donors would be disqualified from donating blood. Health economic analysis showed that when the eligibility criteria was adjusted to 56 U/L or higher, not conducting pre-donation ALT testing was the dominant strategy; under other conditions, conducting pre-donation testing was the dominant strategy. Conclusion: The selection of ALT testing strategies is a complex process influenced by multiple factors, and it is necessary to adopt an appropriate ALT screening strategy based on specific testing circumstances.
9.Serotyping and drug resistance analysis of Salmonella from waterfowl in the Guangdong Region,2013-2023
Wan-jia LI ; Yin-sheng LIN ; Min-fang LIU ; Wen-chang XUE ; Wan-jun ZHU ; Ji-dang CHEN ; Ji-pei ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Zoonoses 2025;41(3):297-303
This study was aimed at understanding the prevalence and drug resistance status of Salmonella of waterfowl ori-gin in the Guangdong region in the past decade,to guide prevention and control efforts.The drug-sensitive paper slide method was used to conduct drug susceptibility testing on 314 waterfowl-originating Salmonella strains isolated from 238 waterfowl farms in the Guangdong region from 2013 to 2023.The isolated Salmonella strains were most resistant to penicillin,amoxicil-lin,cefradine,and cefazolin in the β-lactam group;sulphadoxine dimethylpyrimidine in the sulphonamide group;and tetracy-cline in the tetracycline group.The resistance rates ranged from 73.57%to 89.49%.The highest sensitivity was observed to amikacin,gentamicin,and kanamycin in the aminoglycoside group,and norfloxacin in the quinolone group,with susceptibility rates all exceeding 50%.The 280 strains of Salmonella showed multi-drug resistance to six classes of antimicrobial drugs and high resistance(as much as 60.83%)to five drug classes.Correlation analysis revealed the highest correlations for florfenicol with gentamicin,and for amoxicillin with penicillin(r=0.650 for both),followed by gentamicin with kanamycin(r=0.620).Salmonella resistance in waterfowl in Guangdong Province was generally severe and showed a complex pattern of drug resist-ance.Detection of waterfowl pathogens should be strengthened to prevent the spread of drug-resistant bacteria and support ra-tional use of antibiotics.This work provides a reference for Salmonella prevention and control in waterfowl farms.
10.Evaluation of the Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine Fumigation and Washing Combined with Medicinal Stick Acupoint Massage in Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation
Cheng-xian ZHAO ; Yan SHEN ; Xue-ping CHEN ; Chang-hui YE ; Chen-chen HUANG
Progress in Modern Biomedicine 2025;25(10):1717-1724
Objective:To observe the effect of traditional chinese medicine fumigation combined with medicinal stick acupoint massage in patients with lumbar disc herniation(LDH).Methods:90 patients with LDH who were admitted to our hospital from March 2022 to March 2024 were divided into control group(received conventional treatment,n=45)and observation group(received traditional chinese medicine fumigation combined with acupuncture stick massage,n=45)by envelope drawing method.The clinical efficacy,lumbar range of motion,lumbar function[Japanese Orthopaedic Association Score(JOA),Oswestry Disability Index(ODI)],inflammatory cytokines[C-reactive protein(CRP),erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR),interleukin-6(IL-6)],pain severity,and quality of life were compared between two groups.Results:Compared with control group after intervention,the observation group had higher clinical total effective rate,flexion,extension,scoliosis,straight legs Raise(SLR),JOA score,Quality of Life Assessment Scale(SF-36)score,and lower ODI score,Visual analogue Scale(VAS)score,ESR,CRP,and IL-6(P<0.05).Conclusion:Application of traditional chinese medicine fumigation combined with medicinal stick acupoint massage in patients with LDH,it can reduce pain and inflammation,improve lumbar range of motion,lumbar function,and improve quality of life.


Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail