1.Efficacy of Bone Regeneration Cell Therapy Using Mesenchymal Stem Cells Originating from Embryonic Stem Cells in Animal Models; Bone Defects and Osteomyelitis
Jin-Ho PARK ; Han-Sol BAE ; Ingeun KIM ; Jiwoon JUNG ; Yoonho ROH ; Dongbin LEE ; Tae Sung HWANG ; Hee-Chun LEE ; June-Ho BYUN
Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine 2025;22(1):145-157
BACKGROUND:
Bone defects are commonly encountered due to accidents, diseases, or aging, and the demand for effective bone regeneration, particularly for dental implants, is increasing in our aging society. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising candidates for regenerative therapies; however, obtaining sufficient quantities of these cells for clinical applications remains challenging. DW-MSCs, derived from embryonic stem cells and developed by Daewoong Pharmaceutical, exhibit a robust proliferative capacity even after extensive culture.
METHODS:
This study explores the therapeutic potential of DW-MSCs in various animal models of bone defects. DWMSCs were expanded for over 13 passages for in vivo use in rat and canine models of bone defects and osteomyelitis. The research focused on the in vivo osteogenic differentiation of DW-MSCs, the establishment of a fibrin-based system for bone regeneration, the assessment of bone repair following treatment in animal models, and comparisons with commercially available bone grafts.
RESULTS:
Results showed that DW-MSCs exhibited superior osteogenic differentiation compared to other materials, and the fibrinization process not only preserved but enhanced their proliferation and differentiation capabilities through a 3D culture effect. In both bone defect models, DW-MSCs facilitated significant bone regeneration, reduced inflammatory responses in osteomyelitis, and achieved effective bone healing. The therapeutic outcomes of DW-MSCs were comparable to those of commercial bone grafts but demonstrated qualitatively superior bone tissue restructuring.
CONCLUSION
Our findings suggest that DW-MSCs offer a promising approach for bone regeneration therapies due to their high efficacy and anti-inflammatory properties.
2.Establishment of an In Vitro Embryo-Endometrium Model Using Alginate-Embedded Mouse Embryos and Human Embryoid Body
Yoon Young KIM ; Yong Jin KIM ; Jung Woo KIM ; Jiyeon KIM ; Sung Woo KIM ; Seung-Yup KU
Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine 2025;22(1):77-89
BACKGROUND:
Embryo-endometrium cross-talk is one of the critical processes for implantation, and unsuccessful cross-talk leads to infertility. We established an endometrium-embryo (or embryoid bodies, hEBs) in vitro model in 2D and 3D conditions and assessed its potential through the fusion of embryos and the expression of specific markers.
METHODS:
C57BL/6 mouse embryos and human embryoid body (hEB) derived from embryonic stem cells were prepared as embryo models. Mouse endometrium (EM) and human endometrium cell line, HEC-1-A, were prepared, and 2D or 3D EMs were generated. The viability of the 3D endometrium was analyzed, and the optimal ratio of the gelation was revealed. The invasion of the embryos or hEBs was examined by immunostaining and 3D image rendering.
RESULTS:
The embryos and the alternative hEBs were effectively fused into 2D or 3D vitro EM models in both mouse and human models. The fused embryos and hEBs exhibited migration and further development. Notably, the established in vitro model expressed Oct4 and E-Cadherin, markers for early embryonic development; human CG Receptor and Progesterone Receptor, critical for implantation and pregnancy maintenance; and TSH Receptor, Epiregulin, and Prolactin, indicators of endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation.
CONCLUSION
This study marks a significant advancement in the field, as we have successfully established a novel in vitro model for studying embryo-endometrium cross-talk. This model, a crucial tool for understanding fertility and the causes of miscarriage due to failed implantation, provides a unique platform for investigating the complex processes of successful implantation and pregnancy, underscoring its potential impact on reproductive health.
3.2025 Seoul Consensus on Clinical Practice Guidelines for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Yonghoon CHOI ; Young Hoon YOUN ; Seung Joo KANG ; Jeong Eun SHIN ; Young Sin CHO ; Yoon Suk JUNG ; Seung Yong SHIN ; Cheal Wung HUH ; Yoo Jin LEE ; Hoon Sup KOO ; Kwangwoo NAM ; Hong Sub LEE ; Dong Hyun KIM ; Ye Hyun PARK ; Min Cheol KIM ; Hyo Yeop SONG ; Sung-Hoon YOON ; Sang Yeol LEE ; Miyoung CHOI ; Moo-In PARK ; In-Kyung SUNG ;
Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility 2025;31(2):133-169
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, disabling, and functional bowel disorder that significantly affects social functioning and reduces quality of life and increases social costs. The Korean Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility published clinical practice guidelines on the management of IBS based on a systematic review of the literature in 2017, and planned to revise these guidelines in light of new evidence on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of IBS. The current revised version of the guidelines is consistent with the previous version and targets adults diagnosed with or suspected of having IBS. These guidelines were developed using a combination of de novo and adaptation methods, with analyses of existing guidelines and discussions within the committee, leading to the identification of key clinical questions. Finally, the guidelines consisted of 22 recommendations, including 3 concerning the definition and risk factors of IBS, 4 regarding diagnostic modalities and strategies, 2 regarding general management, and 13 regarding medical treatment. For each statement, the advantages, disadvantages, and precautions were thoroughly detailed. The modified Delphi method was used to achieve expert consensus to adopt the core recommendations of the guidelines. These guidelines serve as a reference for clinicians (including primary care physicians, general healthcare providers, medical students, residents, and other healthcare professionals) and patients, helping them to make informed decisions regarding IBS management.
4.Clinical Characteristics of Pediatric Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Nationwide Retrospective Multicenter Study
Donghyeok KIM ; Gwanghui RYU ; Sang Duk HONG ; Shin Hyuk YOO ; Sue Jean MUN ; Eun Jung LEE ; Sung-Jae HEO ; Jin Hyeok JEONG ; Dae Woo KIM ; Hyung-Ju CHO ; Min-Seok RHA ; Yong Min KIM ; Ki-Il LEE ; Ji-Hun MO ;
Journal of Rhinology 2025;32(1):28-35
Background and Objectives:
Pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) significantly affects children’s quality of life and learning abilities. This study aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcomes in pediatric patients who underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for CRS.
Methods:
A retrospective review was conducted on pediatric patients who underwent FESS for CRS at 11 university hospitals. The inclusion criteria were patients under 20 years old with bilateral disease who were operated on between January 2005 and December 2021. The data collected included demographics, clinical history, blood tests, preoperative computed tomography, and preoperative and postoperative symptom control. The Kruskal-Wallis and Fisher exact tests were used to compare the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.
Results:
In total, 213 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 13.4±3.0 years, and 145 (68.1%) were male. One hundred sixty-four patients (77.0%) had nasal polyps and 33 patients (15.5%) underwent revision FESS. The preoperative symptoms, in order of prevalence, included nasal obstruction (87.8%), rhinorrhea (71.8%), a sense of postnasal drip (58.2%), hyposmia (44.6%), cough (24.4%), and facial fullness (18.3%). These symptoms were significantly alleviated for up to 3 years after surgery (p<0.001). At the time of the last follow-up, 121 patients (56.8%) were controlled, 80 (37.6%) were partly controlled, and 12 (5.6%) were uncontrolled. Patients in the uncontrolled group had higher Lund-Mackay scores, longer follow-up durations, and more instances of revision surgery compared to those in the controlled and partly controlled groups. When age was categorized into three groups, those aged 16 years or older tended to have lower Lund-Mackay scores and better control.
Conclusion
FESS significantly improves both the postoperative symptoms and the long-term quality of life in pediatric CRS patients. Better symptom control is associated with older age and a lower disease burden.
5.Early Administration of Nelonemdaz May Improve the Stroke Outcomes in Patients With Acute Stroke
Jin Soo LEE ; Ji Sung LEE ; Seong Hwan AHN ; Hyun Goo KANG ; Tae-Jin SONG ; Dong-Ick SHIN ; Hee-Joon BAE ; Chang Hun KIM ; Sung Hyuk HEO ; Jae-Kwan CHA ; Yeong Bae LEE ; Eung Gyu KIM ; Man Seok PARK ; Hee-Kwon PARK ; Jinkwon KIM ; Sungwook YU ; Heejung MO ; Sung Il SOHN ; Jee Hyun KWON ; Jae Guk KIM ; Young Seo KIM ; Jay Chol CHOI ; Yang-Ha HWANG ; Keun Hwa JUNG ; Soo-Kyoung KIM ; Woo Keun SEO ; Jung Hwa SEO ; Joonsang YOO ; Jun Young CHANG ; Mooseok PARK ; Kyu Sun YUM ; Chun San AN ; Byoung Joo GWAG ; Dennis W. CHOI ; Ji Man HONG ; Sun U. KWON ;
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(2):279-283
6.Radiofrequency Ablation for Recurrent Thyroid Cancers:2025 Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology Guideline
Eun Ju HA ; Min Kyoung LEE ; Jung Hwan BAEK ; Hyun Kyung LIM ; Hye Shin AHN ; Seon Mi BAEK ; Yoon Jung CHOI ; Sae Rom CHUNG ; Ji-hoon KIM ; Jae Ho SHIN ; Ji Ye LEE ; Min Ji HONG ; Hyun Jin KIM ; Leehi JOO ; Soo Yeon HAHN ; So Lyung JUNG ; Chang Yoon LEE ; Jeong Hyun LEE ; Young Hen LEE ; Jeong Seon PARK ; Jung Hee SHIN ; Jin Yong SUNG ; Miyoung CHOI ; Dong Gyu NA ;
Korean Journal of Radiology 2025;26(1):10-28
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment modality used as an alternative to surgery in patients with benign thyroid nodules, recurrent thyroid cancers (RTCs), and primary thyroid microcarcinomas. The Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology (KSThR) initially developed recommendations for the optimal use of RFA for thyroid tumors in 2009 and revised them in 2012 and 2017. As new meaningful evidence has accumulated since 2017 and in response to a growing global interest in the use of RFA for treating malignant thyroid lesions, the task force committee members of the KSThR decided to update the guidelines on the use of RFA for the management of RTCs based on a comprehensive analysis of current literature and expert consensus.
7.Prospective Evaluation of Accelerated Brain MRI Using Deep Learning-Based Reconstruction: Simultaneous Application to 2D Spin-Echo and 3D Gradient-Echo Sequences
Kyu Sung CHOI ; Chanrim PARK ; Ji Ye LEE ; Kyung Hoon LEE ; Young Hun JEON ; Inpyeong HWANG ; Roh Eul YOO ; Tae Jin YUN ; Mi Ji LEE ; Keun-Hwa JUNG ; Koung Mi KANG
Korean Journal of Radiology 2025;26(1):54-64
Objective:
To prospectively evaluate the effect of accelerated deep learning-based reconstruction (Accel-DL) on improving brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) quality and reducing scan time compared to that in conventional MRI.
Materials and Methods:
This study included 150 participants (51 male; mean age 57.3 ± 16.2 years). Each group of 50 participants was scanned using one of three 3T scanners from three different vendors. Conventional and Accel-DL MRI images were obtained from each participant and compared using 2D T1- and T2-weighted and 3D gradient-echo sequences. Accel-DL acquisition was achieved using optimized scan parameters to reduce the scan time, with the acquired images reconstructed using U-Net-based software to transform low-quality, undersampled k-space data into high-quality images. The scan times of Accel-DL and conventional MRI methods were compared. Four neuroradiologists assessed the overall image quality, structural delineation, and artifacts using Likert scale (5- and 3-point scales). Inter-reader agreement was assessed using Fleiss’ kappa coefficient. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated, and volumetric quantification of regional structures and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) was performed.
Results:
Accel-DL showed a mean scan time reduction of 39.4% (range, 24.2%–51.3%). Accel-DL improved overall image quality (3.78 ± 0.71 vs. 3.36 ± 0.61, P < 0.001), structure delineation (2.47 ± 0.61 vs. 2.35 ± 0.62, P < 0.001), and artifacts (3.73 ± 0.72 vs. 3.71 ± 0.69, P = 0.016). Inter-reader agreement was fair to substantial (κ = 0.34–0.50). SNR and CNR increased in Accel-DL (82.0 ± 23.1 vs. 31.4 ± 10.8, P = 0.02; 12.4 ± 4.1 vs. 4.4 ± 11.2, P = 0.02). Bland-Altman plots revealed no significant differences in the volumetric measurements of 98.2% of the relevant regions, except in the deep gray matter, including the thalamus. Five of the six lesion categories showed no significant differences in WMH segmentation, except for leukocortical lesions (r = 0.64 ± 0.29).
Conclusion
Accel-DL substantially reduced the scan time and improved the quality of brain MRI in both spin-echo and gradientecho sequences without compromising volumetry, including lesion quantification.
8.Early effects of PCSK9 inhibitors: evolocumab versus alirocumab
Su-Hyun BAE ; Bong-Joon KIM ; Soo-Jin KIM ; Sung-Il IM ; Hyun-Su KIM ; Jung-Ho HEO
Kosin Medical Journal 2025;40(1):49-54
Background:
The significance of risk modification in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is well recognized; however, the optimal timing for adminstering PCSK9 inhibitors remains unclear. Additionally, the lipid-lowering efficacy of evolocumab and alirocumab has not been fully established. This study evaluated the lipid-lowering effects of these two PCSK9 inhibitors.
Methods:
Patients diagnosed with ACS, including unstable angina, ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, who were treated with a PCSK9 inhibitor (evolocumab or alirocumab) during hospitalization for ACS between 2021 and 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were assessed, and changes in LDL-C levels during the acute and subacute phases after PCSK9 inhibitor administration were compared between the evolocumab and alirocumab groups.
Results:
Among 80 patients diagnosed with ACS, 36 received evolocumab, while 44 were treated with alirocumab. The mean baseline LDL-C level was 123 mg/dL in the evolocumab group and 128 mg/dL in the alirocumab group (p=0.456). In the subacute phase, the mean follow-up LDL-C levels were 47.05 mg/dL in the evolocumab group and 49.5 mg/dL in the alirocumab group (p=0.585). The mean percentage reduction in LDL-C levels during the subacute phase was 60.41% in the evolocumab group and 58.51% in the alirocumab group (p=0.431). These differences were not statistically significant.
Conclusions
No significant differences were observed between evolocumab and alirocumab. LDL-C levels exhibited a similar trend, characterized by a rapid decline in the acute phase, followed by a slight rebound in the subacute phase.
9.Relation between pelvic organ prolapse and menopausal hormone therapy: nationwide cohort study
Hee-Yeong JUNG ; Tae-Ran KIM ; Gwan Hee HAN ; Jin-Sung YUK
Obstetrics & Gynecology Science 2025;68(3):210-220
Objective:
To analyze the relationship between pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT).
Methods:
This retrospective cohort study used Korean National Health checkup and insurance data from 2002 to 2019. Women who used MHT for more than 6 months between 2002 and 2011 were included in the MHT group; postmenopausal women with no MHT use comprised the non-MHT group.
Results:
In the non-MHT group, there were 1,001,350 women, while the MHT group had 353,206 women. Tibolone (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.87; 99% confidence interval [CI], 0.818-0.926) and combined estrogen plus progestin by the manufacturer (CEPM) (aHR, 0.821; 99% CI, 0.758-0.89) were associated with reduced POP risk. The other oral MHT groups and the transdermal estrogen group showed no significant difference in POP risk compared with the non-MHT group (other oral MHT: aHR, 1.045; 99% CI, 0.941-1.161) (transdermal estrogen: aHR, 1.252; 99% CI, 0.731-2.145). Lower body mass index (BMI) (<18.5) was associated with reduced POP risk (aHR, 0.822; 99% CI, 0.698-0.968), while a BMI between 23 and 29.9 was associated with increased risk (BMI 23-24.9: aHR, 1.143; 99% CI, 1.088-1.2) (BMI 25-29.9: aHR, 1.173; 99% CI, 1.12-1.228). All parities had a higher POP risk than parity 1 (parity 0 or no response: aHR, 1.785; 99% CI, 1.589-2.005; parity 2: aHR, 1.434; 99% CI, 1.292-1.592; parity ≥3: aHR, 1.916; 99% CI, 1.712-2.144).
Conclusion
Tibolone and CEPM use were associated with reduced POP risk in postmenopausal women. Other MHT types showed no significant association with POP.
10.Pre-Treatment Perceived Social Support Is Associated With Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Longitudinal Study
Joon Sung SHIN ; Sanghyup JUNG ; Geun Hui WON ; Sun Hyung LEE ; Jaehyun KIM ; Saim JUNG ; Chan-Woo YEOM ; Kwang-Min LEE ; Kyung-Lak SON ; Jang-il KIM ; Sook Young JEON ; Han-Byoel LEE ; Bong-Jin HAHM
Psychiatry Investigation 2025;22(4):424-434
Objective:
Previous studies have reported an association between cancer-related symptoms and perceived social support (PSS). The objective of this study was to analyze whether Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN), a prevalent side effect of chemotherapy, varies according to PSS level using a validated tool for CIPN at prospective follow-up.
Methods:
A total of 39 breast cancer patients were evaluated for PSS using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) prior to chemotherapy and were subsequently grouped into one of two categories for each subscale: low-to-moderate PSS and high PSS. CIPN was prospectively evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy 20 (CIPN20) at five time points. A linear mixed-effects model with square root transformation was employed to investigate whether the CIPN20 scales varied by PSS level and time point.
Results:
Statistical analysis of the MSPSS total scale and subscales revealed a significant effect of the friends subscale group and time point on the CIPN20 sensory scale. The sensory scale score of CIPN20 was found to be lower in participants with high PSS from friends in comparison to those with low-to-moderate PSS at 1 month post-chemotherapy (p=0.010).
Conclusion
This is the first study to prospectively follow the long-term effect of pre-treatment PSS from friends on CIPN. Further studies based on larger samples are required to analyze the effects of PSS on the pathophysiology of CIPN.

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