1.Efficient Loading and Targeted Delivery of Plant Exosomes
Meng XU ; Long-Jiao ZHU ; Jie LI ; Chong-Bin LEI ; Yang-Zi ZHANG ; Hong-Tao TIAN ; Wen-Tao XU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(6):1597-1608
Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) are nanoscale extracellular vesicles secreted by plant cells, characterized by a lipid bilayer structure. These vesicles carry a variety of bioactive molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, and play essential roles in intercellular communication and physiological regulation in plants. Compared to animal-derived extracellular vesicles, PDEVs offer several advantages, such as a broad range of sources, high biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and low production costs. Furthermore, PDEVs have demonstrated remarkable potential as natural nanocarriers for drug delivery, due to their ability to efficiently traverse biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier, making them promising candidates for drug delivery systems. This review systematically elaborates on the complex composition of PDEVs, which consists of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, the typical structural characteristics of their lipid bilayers ranging from 30 to 150 nm, and their versatile loading capabilities as drug carriers, efficiently encapsulating various types of therapeutic agents such as hydrophilic small molecules, hydrophobic drugs, nucleic acids, and proteins. We systematically summarize the recent advancements in strategies for enhancing the loading efficiency of PDEVs, which include methods such as co-incubation, ultrasound-assisted loading, electroporation, freeze-thaw cycles, and microfluidic technology. These techniques are evaluated based on their underlying principles, suitable drug types, and their respective advantages. In addition to loading strategies, we focus on the engineered approaches to achieve targeted delivery using PDEVs, such as genetic engineering modifications, chemical ligand conjugation, membrane fusion technology, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) modification. We discuss the mechanisms of these strategies in enhancing targeting efficiency, prolonging in vivo circulation time, and improving therapeutic efficacy. Further, this review highlights the application of PDEVs in various disease models, including tumor, skin inflammation, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases, showcasing their therapeutic potential as multifunctional delivery platforms. The ability of PDEVs to encapsulate diverse therapeutic agents and target specific tissues or cells opens up new avenues for the treatment of complex diseases, offering advantages over conventional drug delivery systems. However, despite the promising applications of PDEVs, several challenges remain in their development and clinical translation. These challenges include variability in source materials, standardization of preparation processes, quality control, scalability of production, and the need for clinical validation. To overcome these obstacles, the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence-assisted design and multi-omics analysis is proposed as a way to facilitate the precise development of PDEVs. These emerging technologies hold the potential to further enhance the precision and effectiveness of plant-based drug delivery systems, ultimately advancing the field of precision medicine. In conclusion, the use of PDEVs as a platform for drug delivery represents a promising area of research with the potential to revolutionize therapeutic strategies. Their ability to encapsulate and deliver a wide variety of bioactive molecules, along with their inherent advantages in biocompatibility and versatility, makes them a valuable tool in the development of more efficient and targeted therapeutic interventions. Continued research and innovation in this field will pave the way for the clinical implementation of PDEVs in the treatment of various diseases, offering new hope for more effective and sustainable therapeutic options.
2.The value of preoperative LNLR combined with cM0(i+)staging in prognostic assessment and model construction for clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Yu QIAO ; Zhenlong WANG ; Haibin ZHOU ; Huayang ZHENG ; Zihao LI ; Yao DONG ; Geng TIAN ; Tie CHONG ; Yue CHONG
Journal of Modern Urology 2026;31(3):207-216
Objective To construct and evaluate a prognostic model for clear cell renal cell carcinoma(ccRCC)based on preoperative lipid ratios, cM0(i+)staging, and other clinical characteristics, so as to provide a precise tool for clinical prognosis assessment. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 215 ccRCC patients treated in our hospital during May 2014 and May 2023. Lipid ratios were calculated using preoperative lipid data, and patients were divided into cM0(i+)stage or cM0 stage according to postoperative circulating tumor cells(CTCs)test results. The optimal lipid ratio and cutoff value were selected using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curves and the X-tile method. Patients were subdivided into three groups based on the level of the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to non-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio(LNLR)and cM0(i+)staging:Group A [LNLR>1.68 and diagnosed with cM0(i+)], Group B [LNLR>1.68 or diagnosed with cM0(i+)], and Group C(LNLR ≤1.68 and diagnosed with cM0). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to plot survival curves for patients in different groups. The log-rank test was employed to compare differences in recurrence-free survival(RFS)among the subgroups. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify the independent risk factors influencing RFS, and a nomogram prediction model was constructed based on these results. The predictive performance of the model was validated using ROC curves, calibration curves, and decision curves. Results ROC curves were plotted for lipid markers, and LNLR was identified as the most predictive for RFS. Its optimal cutoff point was 1. 68. Patients in Group A experienced a significantly shorter postoperative RFS. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified preoperative LNLR, cM0(i+)staging, pathological grade, and stage as independent risk factors for RFS. A nomogram model was constructed based on these risk factors. The area under the ROC curve(AUC)for 1-, 3-, and 5-year RFS was 0.896(95% CI:0.8121-0.9627), 0.890(95%CI:0.7879-0.9641), and 0.870(95%CI:0.7697-0.9526), indicating good discriminatory ability and predictive performance. Calibration plots demonstrated good agreement between predicted and actual outcomes. Clinical decision curve analysis showed high clinical net benefit. Conclusion Preoperative LNLR level is an independent risk factor for RFS in ccRCC patients. The prognostic prediction model based on LNLR, cM0(i+)staging, patient pathological grade, and staging demonstrates good predictive performance for RFS and holds potential clinical application value.
3.Clinical Observation of Mind-Regulating and Meridians-Dredging Acupuncture Combined with Rehabilitation Training in Treating Limb Dysfunction in Recovery Period of Cerebral Infarction
Wen ZHANG ; Shanbin SUN ; Chong CHEN ; Xiaoli SUN ; Yanju LI ; Ermei CAO ; Yueguang LIANG ; Sifang CHEN ; Haowen TIAN ; Yujie YANG ; Panfu HAO
Journal of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;42(1):71-77
Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of mind-regulating and meridians-dredging acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training in treating limb dysfunction in recovery period of cerebral infarction(CI).Methods A total of 110 cases of patients with limb dysfunction in recovery period of CI were randomly divided into observation group and control group,55 cases in each group,the control group was given routine rehabilitation training,and the observation group was treated with mind-regulating and meridians-dredging acupuncture on the basis of intervention of the control group,the course of treatment covered two consecutive weeks.After two weeks of treatment,the clinical efficacy of the two groups was evaluated,and the changes of scores of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)syndrome,Fugl-Meyer Assessment(FMA),Berg Balance Scale(BBS)and Modified Barthel Index(MBI)before and after treatment of patients in the two groups were observed.The changes of electromyographic signal before and after treatment were compared between the two groups.And the safety and the occurrence of adverse reactions in the two groups were evaluated.Results(1)The total effective rate was 98.18%(54/55)in the observation group and 87.27%(48/55)in the control group.The efficacy of the observation group was superior to that of the control group,the difference being statistically significant(P<0.05).(2)After treatment,the TCM syndrome scores of patients in the two groups were significantly improved(P<0.05),and the improvement in the observation group was significantly superior to that in the control group,with a statistically significant difference(P<0.05).(3)After treatment,the FMA scores of patients in the two groups improved significantly(P<0.05),and the improvement in the observation group was significantly superior to that in the control group,the difference being statistically significant(P<0.05).(4)After treatment,the BBS scores and MBI scores of the patients in the two groups improved significantly(P<0.05),and the improvement in the observation group was significantly superior to that in the control group,the difference being statistically significant(P<0.05).(5)After treatment,the root mean square value(RMS)of biceps brachii muscle elbow flexion and triceps brachii muscle elbow extention of the two groups of patients improved significantly(P<0.05),and the improvement in the observation group was significantly superior to that in the control group,the difference being statistically significant(P<0.05).(6)During the treatment,there were no obvious adverse reactions occurred in both groups.Conclusion Mind-regulating and meridians-dredging acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training in treating limb dysfunction in recovery period of CI can significantly improve the motor ability of patients,and adjust the electromyographic signals of the affected limbs,with high safety.
4.Research progress on in-orbit health monitoring technologies for astronauts
Shulin LIU ; Chuanlu LYU ; Yongjie YAO ; Chong ZHANG ; Shenglong DAI ; Jianquan TIAN
Space Medicine & Medical Engineering 2025;36(5):486-492
During long-duration space missions,astronauts face health challenges such as bone density loss,muscle atrophy,cardiovascular dysfunction,immune function suppression caused by microgravity,as well as mental health issues in a confined environment.There is an urgent need for real-time,continuous,and multi-dimensional health monitoring technologies to safeguard the health and safety of astronauts.This paper systematically reviews the technical requirements and current development status of astronaut on-orbit health monitoring,with a focus on analyzing breakthroughs in technologies such as dynamic electrocardiography,non-invasive blood pressure assessment,flexible electronic skin,and molecular probe spectroscopy.It also elaborates on how the integration of artificial intelligence and bionics technologies is propelling the monitoring system towards intelligence and autonomy,providing a reference for the medical support of astronauts during long-duration spaceflight missions.
5.Functional Analysis of the Promoter of the deSUMOylation Enzyme senp8 and Its Relationship with Lipid Metabolism in Yellow Catfish(Pelteobagrus fulvidraco)
Fu-Xuan DUAN ; Zhi-Wei HAO ; Tao LIU ; Chang-Chun SONG ; Tian-Hua ZHANG ; Chong-Chao ZHONG ; Xiao-Ying TAN
Chinese Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2025;41(4):607-616
To investigate the transcriptionally regulatory mechanism of the senp8 promoter in yellow cat-fish(Pelteobagrus fulvidraco);this study used P.fulvidraco as the research subject.Dual-luciferase re-porter assay and electrophoretic mobility shift assay were employed to analyze the functional activity of the promoter;coupled with in vivo experiments.The results indicated that the 2 045 bp senp8 promoter se-quence contained key transcription factor binding sites such as SP1;TATA-Box;CCAAT-Box;SREBP1;PPARα;and PPARγ.The binding sites of SREBP1(-901/-910 bp);PPARα(-1 291/-1 308 bp);and PPARγ(-1 292/-1 306 bp)in the senp8 promoter positively regulate its activity;and oleic acid or palmitic acid promote this binding.Furthermore;high-fat feeding promoted the expression of the senp8 gene and its protein in the liver of P.fulvidraco;oleic acid or palmitic acid treatment significantly en-hanced the activity of the senp8 promoter;and this enhancement could be achieved through the regulatory effects of SREBP1;PPARα;and PPARγ response elements.Additionally;high-fat feeding influenced the mRNA and protein expression levels of genes related to deSUMOylation modification in the liver of P.fulvidraco.This study provides new insights into the relationship between deSUMOylation modification and the regulation of lipid metabolism in the vertebrates.
6.Astaxanthin reduces oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain through antioxidant mechanisms
Chong CHEN ; Junjie TIAN ; Zan ZHOU ; Ruijuan GAO ; Xuechun TANG ; Yixuan GAO ; Ketao MA ; Li LI ; Junqiang SI
Journal of Xi'an Jiaotong University(Medical Sciences) 2025;46(4):606-615
Objective To investigate the mechanisms by which astaxanthin(AST)alleviates oxaliplatin(OXA)-induced neuropathic pain through antioxidant pathways so as to provide theoretical basis for clinical intervention.Methods Animal experiments:SD rats were divided into five groups(n=6):control group,OXA(4 mg/kg)group,OXA+Oil group,OXA+AST(5 mg/kg)group,and OXA+AST(10 mg/kg)group.Mechanical and cold pain thresholds were measured at day 0,7,14,and 21.Malondialdehyde(MDA)content and superoxide dismutase(SOD)activity in the dorsal root ganglia(DRG)were detected using the thiobarbituric acid(TBA)method and WST-1 assay,respectively.Western blotting was performed to analyze the expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1.Cell experiments:neuro-2a cells were divided into control group,OXA(50 μmol/L)group,AST(10 μmol/L)group,and OXA(50 μmol/L)+AST(10 μmol/L)group.Cells were treated with nerve growth factor(NGF,50 ng/mL)to induce growth,and morphological changes were observed under an inverted microscope.Intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS)level and mitochondrial superoxide were measured using DCFH-DA fluorescent probe and MitoSOXTM red,respectively.Mitochondrial function was assessed by JC-1 assay.Western blotting was used to detect Nrf2 and HO-1 expressions.Results Animal experiments:① Mechanical and cold pain thresholds were reduced in OXA and OXA+Oil groups(P<0.05),while AST significantly increased these thresholds in OXA-treated rats(P<0.05).② SOD activity decreased while MDA content increased in the DRG of OXA-treated rats(P<0.05).AST restored SOD activity and reduced MDA level(P<0.05,P<0.01).③ Western blotting showed elevated Nrf2 and HO-1 expressions in OXA group(P>0.05),which were further upregulated by AST(P<0.05,P<0.01).Cell experiments:① OXA reduced the number of neurite-bearing cells and shortened the average neurite length(P<0.05).Inverted microscopic observation revealed that AST intervention increased both parameters(P<0.01,P<0.001).② OXA increased intracellular and mitochondrial ROS fluorescence intensity(P<0.05),which was attenuated by AST(P<0.01).③ JC-1 assay revealed decreased mitochondrial membrane potential in OXA group(P<0.01),which was partially reversed by AST(P<0.05).④ Western blotting results showed that OXA upregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 expressions(P<0.05,P<0.01),and AST further enhanced their levels(P<0.01).Conclusion AST alleviates OXA-induced neuropathic pain by promoting Nrf2/HO-1 expression,enhancing SOD activity,reducing lipid peroxidation and ROS production,and improving mitochondrial function.
7.Clinical and pathological characteristics and diagnostic analysis of 6 middle-aged and elderly patients with pulmonary ciliated mucinous nodular papillary adenoma
Haibo TIAN ; Chong ZHANG ; Zhen ZHANG
Chongqing Medicine 2025;54(10):2376-2380,2385
Objective To explore the clinical and pathological characteristics of middle-aged and elderly patients with pulmonary ciliated muconodular papillary adenoma(CMPA).Methods Clinical and pathological data as well as follow-up information of 6 middle-aged and elderly patients with CMPA were collected and or-ganized.Tumor tissue samples were observed,and HE staining and immunohistochemical analysis were per-formed on the slices.Results The age range of onset for 6 patients was 55-74 years old,with a median age of 65 years old,and a male to female ratio of 1∶5.In terms of lesion location,there were 2 cases in the left lung and 4 cases in the right lung.CT scan showed that the tumor presents as ground glass nodules or single round solid nodules,with short spikes visible at the edges of some nodules.All patients underwent wedge resection of lung tissue for treatment.Histologically,tumors consist of a bilayer cell structure consisting of luminal epi-thelial cells(including ciliated cells and mucinous cells)and basal cells,forming an glandular or papillary mor-phology.Mucus deposition could be observed within and around the cavity.Immunohistochemical results showed that all cells expressed thyroid transcription factor-1(TTF-1)positively,focal positive expression of aspartic protease A(Napsin A),and no expression of cytokeratin 20(CK20);Basal cells expressed p63 and CK5/6,with lower expression of Ki-67.Molecular testing did not detect any clear gene mutations.Conclusion CMPA has a biological behavior that is either benign or low-grade malignant,and has a good prognosis.
8.Kitchen Ventilation Attenuate the Association of Solid Fuel Use with Sarcopenia: A Cross-Sectional and Prospective Study.
Ying Hao YUCHI ; Wei LIAO ; Jia QIU ; Rui Ying LI ; Ning KANG ; Xiao Tian LIU ; Wen Qian HUO ; Zhen Xing MAO ; Jian HOU ; Lei ZHANG ; Chong Jian WANG
Biomedical and Environmental Sciences 2025;38(4):511-515
9.Gender-Specific Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension in a Chinese Rural Population: The Henan Rural Cohort Study.
Fayaz AHMAD ; Tahir MEHMOOD ; Xiao Tian LIU ; Ying Hao YUCHI ; Ning KANG ; Wei LIAO ; Rui Yu WU ; Bota BAHETI ; Xiao Kang DONG ; Jian HOU ; Sohail AKHTAR ; Chong Jian WANG
Biomedical and Environmental Sciences 2025;38(11):1417-1429
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate hypertension (HTN) trends, key risk factors, and gender disparities in rural China, and to propose targeted strategies for improving HTN control in resource-limited settings.
METHODS:
This longitudinal study used data from the Henan Rural Cohort Study, including baseline (2015-2017; n = 39,224) and follow-up (2018-2022; n = 28,621) participants. HTN was defined as systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg, self-reported diagnosis, or use of antihypertensive medication. Severity was classified using a 7-tier blood pressure (BP) staging system (optimal, normal, high normal, and HTN stages 1-4). A generalized linear mixed-effects model (GLMM) identified associated risk factors.
RESULTS:
HTN prevalence increased modestly from 32.7% (95% CI: 32.2-33.2) to 33.9% (95% CI: 33.3%-34.4%). Awareness and treatment improved from 20.1% to 25.3%, and from 18.8% to 24.4%, respectively, but control rates remained low (6.2% to 12.3%). After adjustment, women had a 1.53-fold higher HTN risk than men ( OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.43-1.63), revealing gender-specific trends. Key risk factors included alcohol use ( OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.27-1.47) and overweight status ( OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.66-1.86). BP staging showed an increase in optimal BP (42.3% to 45.8%), but stagnant management of advanced HTN stages.
CONCLUSION
Hypertension in rural China is shaped by behavioral risk factors and healthcare access gaps. Gender-sensitive, community-based interventions, including task-shifting models, are necessary to mitigate the growing burden of hypertension.
Humans
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Hypertension/etiology*
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China/epidemiology*
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Female
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Male
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Rural Population/statistics & numerical data*
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Prevalence
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Risk Factors
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Middle Aged
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Adult
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Aged
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Longitudinal Studies
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Sex Factors
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Cohort Studies
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East Asian People
10.Diagnosis and clinical significance of extracapsular segmental vein tumor thrombus during partial nephrectomy:a report and discussion of 8 cases
Delai FU ; Geng TIAN ; Xiaoshuang TANG ; Chong YAN ; Kayitare FABRICE ; Xiaoyong CHEN ; Ya ZHANG ; Tie CHONG
Journal of Modern Urology 2025;30(11):927-931
Objective To analyze the clinical characteristics of renal cell carcinoma patients with extracapsular segmental vein tumor thrombus during partial nephrectomy and to explore the clinical significance,thereby contributing to an advanced comprehension of the pathogenesis of cancer thrombus in renal cell carcinoma.Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 209 renal cell carcinoma patients(162 with T1a stage,47 with T1b stage)who underwent partial nephrectomy in our hospital during Sep.2023 and Jul.2025.Among them,8 patients with extracapsular segmental vein tumor thrombus were identified,and the clinical and pathological characteristics were analyzed.Results Among the 8 cases of extracapsular segmental vein tumor thrombus,1 was in T1a stage and 7 were in T1b stage.Preoperativc CT revealed roundish,solid renal masses with heterogeneous density on non-contrast scans,significant enhancement on contrast-enhanced scans,and markedly weaker enhancement in the renal parenchymal phase compared to normal renal tissue.The average tumor diameter was(4.9±0.2)cm,with clear boundaries and no evidence of vascular invasion.Postoperative pathology confirmed clear cell carcinoma in all cases,with International Society of Urological Pathology(ISUP)grades ranging from Ⅰ to Ⅳ,and all surgical margins were negative.After surgery,5 patients received adjuvant immunotherapy.In a median follow-up of 10.3(3.8-22.8)months,no tumor recurrence or metastasis was observed.Conclusion Renal cell carcinoma has a high propensity of vascular invasion,and even clinically staged T1 tumors may develop extracapsular segmental vein tumor thrombus.This finding is significant for clinical prognosis.

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