1.Polypeptide-based Nanocarriers for Oral Targeted Delivery of CAR Genes to Pancreatic Cancer
Feng XIN ; Jian REN ; Zhao-Zhen LI ; Quan FANG ; Rui-Jing LIANG ; Lan-Lan LIU ; Lin-Tao CAI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):431-441
ObjectivePancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) exhibits a limited response to current treatments due to its dense fibrotic stroma and highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In recent years, advancements in cellular immunotherapy, particularly chimeric antigen receptor macrophage (CAR-M) therapy, have offered new hope for pancreatic cancer treatment. Although CAR-M therapy demonstrates dual potential in directly killing tumor cells and remodeling the immune microenvironment, it still faces challenges such as complex in vitro preparation processes and low in vivo targeting and delivery efficiency. Therefore, developing strategies for efficient and targeted in vivo delivery of CAR genes has become crucial for overcoming current therapeutic limitations. This study aims to develop an orally administrable nano-gene delivery system for the targeted delivery of CAR genes to pancreatic tumor sites. MethodsCore nano-gene particles (PNP/pCAR) were constructed by loading plasmid DNA encoding CAR (pCAR) with cationic polypeptides (PNP). Subsequently, PNP/pCAR was surface-modified with β-glucan to prepare the targeted nanoparticles (βGlus-PNP/pCAR). The loading efficiency of PNP for pCAR was quantitatively assessed by gel retardation assay. The particle size, Zeta potential, morphology, and storage stability of PNP/pCAR were characterized using a Malvern particle size analyzer and transmission electron microscopy. At the cellular level, RAW 264.7 macrophages were selected. The cytotoxicity of PNP/pCAR was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. The cellular uptake efficiency and lysosomal escape ability of the nanoparticles were assessed via flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Transfection efficiency was quantitatively evaluated by detecting the expression of the reporter gene GFP using flow cytometry. At the in vivo level, an orthotopic pancreatic cancer mouse model was established. Cy7-labeled βGlus-PNP/pCAR nanoparticles were administered orally, and the fluorescence distribution in mice was dynamically monitored at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 h post-administration using a small animal in vivo imaging system. Forty-eight hours after oral gavage, the mice were euthanized, and pancreatic tumor tissues were collected for further analysis of intratumoral fluorescence signals using the imaging system. Additionally, βGlus-PNP/pCAR-GFP nanoparticles loaded with the reporter gene (GFP) were administered orally. Forty-eight hours post-administration, pancreatic tumor tissues were harvested to prepare frozen sections, and GFP expression was observed and analyzed under a fluorescence microscope. ResultsThe PNP carrier exhibited a high loading capacity for pCAR. The successfully prepared PNP/pCAR nanoparticles were regular spheres with a hydrodynamic diameter of approximately (120±10) nm and a Zeta potential of about +(6±1) mV. They maintained good structural stability after incubation in PBS buffer for 7 d. Cell experiments demonstrated that PNP/pCAR exhibited no significant cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells while being efficiently internalized and effectively escaping lysosomal degradation. The transfection positive rate of PNP/pCAR-GFP in RAW 264.7 cells reached (25±3)%, surpassing that of Lipofectamine 2000-loaded pCAR-GFP (Lipo/pCAR-GFP), which was (20±1)%.In vivo experiments revealed that, compared to unmodified PNP/pCAR, βGlus-PNP/pCAR exhibited strongerin situ pancreatic tumor targeting ability after oral administration. Furthermore, oral administration of βGlus-PNP/pCAR-GFP resulted in significant GFP protein expression detectable within pancreatic tumor tissues. ConclusionThis study successfully constructed and validated an orally administrable, pancreatic cancer-targeting polypeptide-based nano-gene delivery system. It provides an important technological foundation in delivery systems and experimental basis for the subsequent development of in situ CAR-M-based therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer.
2.Polypeptide-based Nanocarriers for Oral Targeted Delivery of CAR Genes to Pancreatic Cancer
Feng XIN ; Jian REN ; Zhao-Zhen LI ; Quan FANG ; Rui-Jing LIANG ; Lan-Lan LIU ; Lin-Tao CAI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):431-441
ObjectivePancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) exhibits a limited response to current treatments due to its dense fibrotic stroma and highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In recent years, advancements in cellular immunotherapy, particularly chimeric antigen receptor macrophage (CAR-M) therapy, have offered new hope for pancreatic cancer treatment. Although CAR-M therapy demonstrates dual potential in directly killing tumor cells and remodeling the immune microenvironment, it still faces challenges such as complex in vitro preparation processes and low in vivo targeting and delivery efficiency. Therefore, developing strategies for efficient and targeted in vivo delivery of CAR genes has become crucial for overcoming current therapeutic limitations. This study aims to develop an orally administrable nano-gene delivery system for the targeted delivery of CAR genes to pancreatic tumor sites. MethodsCore nano-gene particles (PNP/pCAR) were constructed by loading plasmid DNA encoding CAR (pCAR) with cationic polypeptides (PNP). Subsequently, PNP/pCAR was surface-modified with β-glucan to prepare the targeted nanoparticles (βGlus-PNP/pCAR). The loading efficiency of PNP for pCAR was quantitatively assessed by gel retardation assay. The particle size, Zeta potential, morphology, and storage stability of PNP/pCAR were characterized using a Malvern particle size analyzer and transmission electron microscopy. At the cellular level, RAW 264.7 macrophages were selected. The cytotoxicity of PNP/pCAR was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. The cellular uptake efficiency and lysosomal escape ability of the nanoparticles were assessed via flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Transfection efficiency was quantitatively evaluated by detecting the expression of the reporter gene GFP using flow cytometry. At the in vivo level, an orthotopic pancreatic cancer mouse model was established. Cy7-labeled βGlus-PNP/pCAR nanoparticles were administered orally, and the fluorescence distribution in mice was dynamically monitored at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 h post-administration using a small animal in vivo imaging system. Forty-eight hours after oral gavage, the mice were euthanized, and pancreatic tumor tissues were collected for further analysis of intratumoral fluorescence signals using the imaging system. Additionally, βGlus-PNP/pCAR-GFP nanoparticles loaded with the reporter gene (GFP) were administered orally. Forty-eight hours post-administration, pancreatic tumor tissues were harvested to prepare frozen sections, and GFP expression was observed and analyzed under a fluorescence microscope. ResultsThe PNP carrier exhibited a high loading capacity for pCAR. The successfully prepared PNP/pCAR nanoparticles were regular spheres with a hydrodynamic diameter of approximately (120±10) nm and a Zeta potential of about +(6±1) mV. They maintained good structural stability after incubation in PBS buffer for 7 d. Cell experiments demonstrated that PNP/pCAR exhibited no significant cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells while being efficiently internalized and effectively escaping lysosomal degradation. The transfection positive rate of PNP/pCAR-GFP in RAW 264.7 cells reached (25±3)%, surpassing that of Lipofectamine 2000-loaded pCAR-GFP (Lipo/pCAR-GFP), which was (20±1)%.In vivo experiments revealed that, compared to unmodified PNP/pCAR, βGlus-PNP/pCAR exhibited strongerin situ pancreatic tumor targeting ability after oral administration. Furthermore, oral administration of βGlus-PNP/pCAR-GFP resulted in significant GFP protein expression detectable within pancreatic tumor tissues. ConclusionThis study successfully constructed and validated an orally administrable, pancreatic cancer-targeting polypeptide-based nano-gene delivery system. It provides an important technological foundation in delivery systems and experimental basis for the subsequent development of in situ CAR-M-based therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer.
3.Olfactory Receptors Expressed in The Intestine and Their Functions
Pei-Wen YANG ; Meng-Meng YUAN ; Ying ZHOU ; Peng LI ; Gui-Hong QI ; Ying YANG ; Zhong-Yi MAO ; Meng-Sha ZHOU ; Xiao-Shuang MAO ; Jian-Ping XIE ; Yi-Nan YANG ; Shi-Hao SUN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):534-549
Olfactory receptors (ORs) form the largest superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Traditionally recognized for their role in the nasal olfactory epithelium, where they mediate the sense of smell, accumulating evidence has firmly established their ectopic expression in non-olfactory tissues, including the intestine, lungs, and kidneys. The intestine, as the primary site for nutrient digestion and absorption, harbors a highly complex chemical environment. To adapt to this environment, the gut employs a sophisticated network of “chemosensors” to monitor luminal contents and maintain homeostasis. Among these sensors, intestinal ORs have emerged as crucial functional components, serving as a molecular bridge that connects environmental chemical signals—such as food-derived odorants—to specific physiological responses. This discovery has significantly deepened our understanding of how dietary flavors and compounds influence intestinal physiology at the molecular level. This review systematically summarizes the expression profiles, ligand classification, and biological functions of ORs within the gastrointestinal tract. Studies indicate that intestinal ORs exhibit distinct spatial distribution patterns across different gut segments and display cell-type specificity, particularly within enterocytes and enteroendocrine cells. These receptors function as versatile sensors capable of recognizing a wide variety of ligands, including exogenous dietary components, gut microbiota metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, and endogenous small molecules like azelaic acid. Upon activation by specific ligands, intestinal ORs trigger intracellular signaling cascades, primarily involving the AC-cAMP-PKA pathway or calcium influx channels. A major focus of this review is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which these receptors regulate the secretion of gut hormones. Activation of specific ORs in enteroendocrine cells has been shown to stimulate the release of hormones such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide YY (PYY), and serotonin (5-HT), thereby modulating systemic energy metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and gastrointestinal motility. Furthermore, the review addresses the critical roles of ORs in immune regulation and pathology. Evidence suggests that specific ORs contribute to the maintenance of intestinal immune homeostasis and may offer protection against inflammation. Beyond their involvement in inflammatory responses, ORs such as Olfr78 have been shown to regulate the differentiation and function of intestinal endocrine cells. Similarly, Olfr544 has been demonstrated to alleviate intestinal inflammation by remodeling the gut microbiome and metabolome. These findings collectively suggest that specific ORs hold promise as therapeutic targets for mitigating intestinal inflammation and maintaining gut homeostasis. Additionally, the review explores the emerging role of ORs in cancer. Although OR expression is often downregulated in tumor tissues compared to normal mucosa, activation of specific ORs by certain ligands can inhibit tumor cell proliferation and migration and induce apoptosis via pathways such as MEK/ERK and p38 MAPK. Conversely, other receptors, such as OR7C1, may serve as biomarkers for cancer-initiating cells. In conclusion, intestinal ORs represent a vital component of the gut’s sensory network. The review also discusses the translational potential of these findings. By elucidating the precise pairing relationships between dietary components and specific ORs, novel therapeutic strategies could be developed. Intestinal ORs may thus emerge as promising targets for nutritional and pharmacological interventions in metabolic diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, and malignancies.
4.Two cases of rare K phenotype caused by the KEL c.715G>T mutation
Jing LI ; Jing ZHANG ; Zhixia CHENG ; Jian DU ; Xiaoling ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2026;39(4):526-533
Objective: To investigate the serological identification and blood group gene sequencing analysis of two rare cases of K
phenotype producing high-frequency antigen antibodies (anti-Ku), and to study the serological interrelationship between K
cells and the high-frequency antigen antibody anti-KL. Methods: Serological methods were used to identify the antigen phenotypes of the ABO, Rh, and Kell blood group systems and to screen for and identify unexpected antibodies in the two patients. The characteristics of the unexpected antibodies were verified by the indirect antiglobulin test (IAT) using papain or dithiothreitol (DTT) -treated screening cells. The titer of anti-Ku was determined via the tube method using DTT-treated plasma. The Kell blood group genotype was determined by gene sequencing. The distinctive antigenicity of K
cells was validated through their reactivity with anti-KL in IAT, and absorption-elution techniques were employed to corroborate the type of anti-KL. Results: Serological findings: Case 1 was blood group O, CCDee; Case 2 was blood group A, CCDee. Both cases exhibited the Kell phenotype: K-k-, Kp (a-b-). High-frequency antigen antibodies were detected in the plasma of both patients. The reactivity of these antibodies was slightly enhanced with papain-treated screening cells but became negative with DTT-treated cells. The anti-Ku (IgG) titer for Case 1 was 64. For Case 2, the anti-Ku (IgM) titer was<1, and the anti-Ku (IgG) titer was 32. Gene sequencing revealed that both cases harbored a homozygous c.715G>T mutation in the KEL gene, corresponding to the genotype KEL02N.24, consistent with the rare K
phenotype. The unique high expression of the Kx antigen on K
cells was confirmed through the antibody characteristics of anti-KL. Absorption-elution techniques demonstrated that K
cells could separate anti-Km and anti-Kx, thereby supporting the classification of anti-KL. Conclusion: Serological and molecular biological assays identified both patients as having the rare Kell-null (K
) phenotype. If such rare blood types go undetected in transfusion medicine, the administration of standard blood products can readily induce the production of high-frequency antigen antibodies such as anti-Ku, potentially leading to a transfusion crisis due to the subsequent difficulty in finding compatible blood. The serological relationship between K
cells and anti-KL clarified the characteristic high expression of the Kx antigen on K
phenotype erythrocytes and concurrently supported the typological features of the rare high-frequency antibody anti-KL. This represents the first such verified report in China.
5.Combined Therapy of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Hepatitis B Virus Infection: A Review
Xuan WU ; Hui LI ; Jian HUANG ; Xikun YANG ; Yan ZENG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(2):279-288
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the primary cause of viral hepatitis and represents a substantial disease burden in China. However, effective and safe agents capable of completely eliminating HBV DNA are still lacking. In modern medicine, anti-HBV strategies mainly target covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), among other mechanisms, and multiple novel drugs are currently under clinical investigation. Traditional medicine has been shown to exert anti-HBV effects through direct pathways, such as blocking viral entry, as well as indirect pathways, including the regulation of programmed cell death. Studies have confirmed that the integration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine in treating HBV infection and its related complications offers complementary advantages, particularly in enhancing HBV clearance rates, improving liver function, preventing various complications, and delaying the progression from hepatic fibrosis to hepatocellular carcinoma. This review focuses on advances in anti-HBV research involving TCM, Western medicine, and their integrated application, aiming to provide a basis for integrated HBV therapy and new drug development.
6.Current strategies and future directions in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration
Jian XU ; Jie WANG ; Haixin FU ; Chaopeng LI
International Eye Science 2026;26(1):56-62
Age-related macular degeneration(ARMD)is a progressive visual impairment fundus disease that frequently occurs in individuals aged >55 years. The main risk factors are aging, long-term smoking, genetics, and racial differences. Pathogenesis includes abnormal function of the retinal pigment epithelium, damaged blood-retinal barrier, and abnormal immune function. Currently, intravitreal injection(IVI)of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)drugs is the preferred treatment option for ARMD in clinical practice. However, it also faces challenges such as repeated treatments, high medical costs, and poor patient compliance. The predicament in the treatment of ARMD has given rise to several new treatment options. This article aims to review the treatment methods and progress of dry ARMD and wet ARMD, providing new ideas for addressing the limitations of the current clinical anti-VEGF treatment.
7.Comparison of Wild and Cultivated Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus Based on Traditional Quality Evaluation
Fengfan WANG ; Yajie XIANG ; Jian FENG ; Wencheng HOU ; Wenlan LI ; Yangyang LIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(5):235-244
ObjectiveTo compare the differences between wild Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus(WAOF) and cultivated Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus(CAOF) through a traditional quality evaluation system for medicinal materials. MethodsA total of 10 batches of WAOF and 12 batches of CAOF samples were collected from various regions of Hainan province. Relevant analytical methods from the 2020 edition of the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China were employed to observe the characteristics of WAOF and CAOF, followed by microscopic identification, thin-layer chromatography(TLC) identification, moisture content(toluene method), total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble and alcohol-soluble extracts(hot dipping method), water-soluble protein, total polysaccharides and total flavonoids(ultraviolet spectrophotometry), and volatile oil content(method A under general rule 2204). The contents of five active components(protocatechuic acid, chrysin, kaempferol, tectochrysin and nootkatone) were quantified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography(UPLC), and the antioxidant activity was evaluated. Building upon traditional quality evaluation of AOF, quantitative measurements were conducted on its appearance traits including diameter, length, plumpness(diameter/length ratio), and color. Canonical correlation analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 to explore relationships between appearance traits and intrinsic quality. ResultsNo significant differences were observed between WAOF and CAOF in microscopic observation, TLC identification, moisture content, protocatechuic acid content, kaempferol content, odor, or antioxidant activity measured by 2,2ʹ-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)(ABTS) method. WAOF exhibited significantly higher levels in water-soluble extracts, alcohol-soluble extracts, total polysaccharide content, water-soluble protein content, 100-grain weight, length, and total color difference(ΔE*ab) compared to CAOF(P<0.01). In contrast, CAOF showed significantly higher levels of total ash, acid-insoluble ash, content of total flavonoids, volatile oil content, chrysin content, tectochrysin content, nootkatone content, diameter, plumpness, lightness(L*), red-green chromaticity(a*), yellow-blue chromaticity(b*), and antioxidant activity measured by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) method compared to WAOF(P<0.01). Correlation analysis between 7 phenotypic traits and 8 quality traits revealed that among the phenotypic traits, plumpness, L*, a*, and b* exerted significant influence on intrinsic quality. Among the quality traits, total flavonoids, volatile oils, nootkatone, chrysin, and tectochrysin contributed substantially to intrinsic quality. ConclusionPlumpness, L*, a*, and b* of AOF significantly influence its intrinsic quality, and higher values of these parameters indicate relatively superior intrinsic quality. The comprehensive quality evaluation reveals that CAOF samples collected in this study are superior to their wild counterparts.
8.Current status of talent cultivation in sports rehabilitation in China: based on World Health Organization rehabilitation competency framework
Jian CHEN ; Zheheng LI ; Dingxuan WANG
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice 2026;32(1):110-116
ObjectiveTo analyze the current status and existing challenges in talent cultivation for sports rehabilitation in China based on World Health Organization rehabilitation competency framework (RCF). MethodsData were collected from 104 higher education institutions nationwide that offer undergraduate programs in sports rehabilitation, including enrollment scale, regional distribution, degree conferral and training curriculum. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used to examine the status and characteristics from three dimensions: institutional distribution, competency development and resource allocation, in terms of institutional type, regional distribution density, curriculum structure differences, competency-oriented training approaches and resource allocation patterns. ResultsTalent cultivation in sports rehabilitation in China currently faced a three-dimensional dilemma involving competency, resources, and public cognition. In terms of competency structure, a disconnect existed between medical fundamentals and exercise practice: physical education institutions provided insufficient medical training, whereas medical institutions lacked systematic instruction in exercise techniques. Regarding resource allocation, significant regional disparities were observed, with institutions heavily concentrated in Southwest (24.0%), East China (19.2%), and North China (15.4%), while Northwest China accounted for only 3.8%, forming a pronounced east-west gap. At the cognitive level, the public generally perceived sports rehabilitation as a service exclusive to athletes, and within the discipline, divergences persisted among the medical-oriented, sports-oriented, and integrated schools of thought. These challenges collectively hindered the quality of talent supply and regional balance. ConclusionTalent cultivation in sports rehabilitation in China is at a pivotal stage of transition from rapid expansion to quality enhancement. It is necessary to realign the knowledge structure and competency system of training programs with the five core competency domains of RCF.
9.Expert Consensus on Neurocritical Care Monitoring and Management in Beijing and Tibet(2025)
Drolma PHURBU ; Wenjin CHEN ; Heng ZHANG ; Jian ZHANG ; Xiaomeng WANG ; Guoying LIN ; Wenjun PAN ; Xiying GUI ; Xin CAI ; Chodron TENZIN ; Jianlei FU ; Qianwei LI ; TSEYANG ; Yijun LIU ; Bo LIU ; Tsering DROLMA ; Yudron SONAM ; KYILV ; Samdrup TSERING ; Wa DA ; Juan GUO ; Cheng QIU ; Huan CHEN ; Xiaoting WANG ; Yangong CHAO ; Dawei LIU ; Wenzhao CHAI ; Chenggong HU ; Wanhong YIN ; Shihong ZHU
Medical Journal of Peking Union Medical College Hospital 2026;17(1):59-72
Neurocritical care involves complex pathophysiological mechanisms, and its incidence is higher, injuries are more severe, and treatment is more challenging in high-altitude environments. This consensus, based on the latest domestic and international evidence-based medical data, establishes a standardized, goal-oriented framework for neurocritical care management applicable in high-altitude regions and nationwide. The consensus was developed following international standards for evidence quality assessment and underwent two rounds of Delphi expert consultation, resulting in 32 recommendation statements covering three parts: management systems, monitoring and assessment, and core strategies. Key updates include: advocating for the establishment of independent neurocritical care units and implementing precise tiered diagnosis and treatment based on the "Five Differences in Critical Care" concept; constructing a "trinity" multimodal brain monitoring system centered on cerebral blood flow, cerebral oxygenation, and brain function, emphasizing routine bedside transcranial Doppler ultrasound, cerebral oximetry, and continuous electroencephalography monitoring; shifting management strategies from mild hypothermia therapy to targeted temperature management, and defining the "446" target management pathway for the supercritical stage; emphasizing the assessment of static and dynamic cerebrovascular autoregulation functions through multimodal methods to achieve individualized optimal mean arterial pressure management; elevating cerebrospinal fluid management goals to the level of "glymphatic system" function maintenance; implementing a multidisciplinary collaborative, whole-process management model focusing on patients' long-term neurological functional outcomes; de-escalation criteria include multidimensional indicators such as recovery of brain structure, restoration of cerebrovascular autoregulation, improvement in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, and reduction in biomarker levels; and integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence into post-critical care management and rehabilitation planning. This consensus systematically integrates the entire process of neurocritical care management, reflecting the modern connotation of goal-oriented, dynamic, and multimodal integration in neurocritical care medicine. It aims to adapt to new trends such as deepening understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms, the integration of medicine and engineering, and the empowerment of artificial intelligence, thereby further advancing the discipline of critical care medicine.
10.Current applications and research progression of central nervous system adaptation in rehabilitation of ophthalmic diseases
International Eye Science 2026;26(3):447-451
Central nervous system adaptation represents a core compensatory mechanism whereby the nervous system dynamically adjusts structure and function to counteract pathological damages, relying on the synergistic effects of multi-level neural plasticity. Amblyopia training may enhance cortical function through dichoptic augmented reality and visual attention exercises, cognitive training and neuroimmunomodulation may facilitate multifocal intraocular lens adaptation after cataract surgery, transcranial alternating current stimulation may improve visual fields in glaucoma, and perceptual learning may optimize eccentric fixation in age-related macular degeneration rehabilitation. These therapeutic approaches may shift the focus of managements from traditional structural repair to neural functional remodeling in ophthalmic diseases, which will open a new way for enhancing patients' visual function and quality of vision. This review aims to systematically review the mechanisms underlying central nervous system adaptability, its current applications in ocular disease rehabilitation and future prospects.

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