1.The Mechanisms of Quercetin in Improving Alzheimer’s Disease
Yu-Meng ZHANG ; Yu-Shan TIAN ; Jie LI ; Wen-Jun MU ; Chang-Feng YIN ; Huan CHEN ; Hong-Wei HOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(2):334-347
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative condition characterized by progressive cognitive decline and memory loss. As the incidence of AD continues to rise annually, researchers have shown keen interest in the active components found in natural plants and their neuroprotective effects against AD. Quercetin, a flavonol widely present in fruits and vegetables, has multiple biological effects including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. Oxidative stress plays a central role in the pathogenesis of AD, and the antioxidant properties of quercetin are essential for its neuroprotective function. Quercetin can modulate multiple signaling pathways related to AD, such as Nrf2-ARE, JNK, p38 MAPK, PON2, PI3K/Akt, and PKC, all of which are closely related to oxidative stress. Furthermore, quercetin is capable of inhibiting the aggregation of β‑amyloid protein (Aβ) and the phosphorylation of tau protein, as well as the activity of β‑secretase 1 and acetylcholinesterase, thus slowing down the progression of the disease.The review also provides insights into the pharmacokinetic properties of quercetin, including its absorption, metabolism, and excretion, as well as its bioavailability challenges and clinical applications. To improve the bioavailability and enhance the targeting of quercetin, the potential of quercetin nanomedicine delivery systems in the treatment of AD is also discussed. In summary, the multifaceted mechanisms of quercetin against AD provide a new perspective for drug development. However, translating these findings into clinical practice requires overcoming current limitations and ongoing research. In this way, its therapeutic potential in the treatment of AD can be fully utilized.
2.The Application of Spatial Resolved Metabolomics in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Lu-Tao XU ; Qian LI ; Shu-Lei HAN ; Huan CHEN ; Hong-Wei HOU ; Qing-Yuan HU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(9):2346-2359
The pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) is fundamentally linked to complex and profound alterations in metabolic networks within the brain, which exhibit marked spatial heterogeneity. While conventional bulk metabolomics is powerful for detecting global metabolic shifts, it inherently lacks spatial resolution. This methodological limitation hampers the ability to interrogate critical metabolic dysregulation within discrete anatomical brain regions and specific cellular microenvironments, thereby constraining a deeper understanding of the core pathological mechanisms that initiate and drive NDDs. To address this critical gap, spatial metabolomics, with mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) at its core, has emerged as a transformative approach. It uniquely overcomes the limitations of bulk methods by enabling high-resolution, simultaneous detection and precise localization of hundreds to thousands of endogenous molecules—including primary metabolites, complex lipids, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and essential metal ions—directly in situ from tissue sections. This powerful capability offers an unprecedented spatial perspective for investigating the intricate and heterogeneous chemical landscape of NDD pathology, opening new avenues for discovery. Accordingly, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the field, beginning with a discussion of the technical features, optimal application scenarios, and current limitations of major MSI platforms. These include the widely adopted matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)-MSI, the ultra-high-resolution technique of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS)-MSI, and the ambient ionization method of desorption electrospray ionization (DESI)-MSI, along with other emerging technologies. We then highlight the pivotal applications of spatial metabolomics in NDD research, particularly its role in elucidating the profound chemical heterogeneity within distinct pathological microenvironments. These applications include mapping unique molecular signatures around amyloid β‑protein (Aβ) plaques, uncovering the metabolic consequences of neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein, and characterizing the lipid and metabolite composition of Lewy bodies. Moreover, we examine how spatial metabolomics contributes to constructing detailed metabolic vulnerability maps across the brain, shedding light on the biochemical factors that render certain neuronal populations and anatomical regions selectively susceptible to degeneration while others remain resilient. Looking beyond current applications, we explore the immense potential of integrating spatial metabolomics with other advanced research methodologies. This includes its combination with three-dimensional brain organoid models to recapitulate disease-relevant metabolic processes, its linkage with multi-organ axis studies to investigate how systemic metabolic health influences neurodegeneration, and its convergence with single-cell and subcellular analyses to achieve unprecedented molecular resolution. In conclusion, this review not only summarizes the current state and critical role of spatial metabolomics in NDD research but also offers a forward-looking perspective on its transformative potential. We envision its continued impact in advancing our fundamental understanding of NDDs and accelerating translation into clinical practice—from the discovery of novel biomarkers for early diagnosis to the development of high-throughput drug screening platforms and the realization of precision medicine for individuals affected by these devastating disorders.
3.Differences in emotional behavior between male and female mice with Maoa c.1409 T>C synonymous mutation
Kaixin LI ; Guanglin LIU ; Qianqian YUAN ; Fanglin LIU ; Huan CHEN ; Hongwei HOU
Acta Laboratorium Animalis Scientia Sinica 2024;32(10):1295-1306
Objective To investigate the effect of the monoamine oxidase A(MAOA),Maoa c.1409 T>C synonymous mutation on anxiety,fear,and other emotional behaviors in mice.Methods In this study,CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to construct a mouse model of a single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP)synonymous mutation.We evaluated the differential effect of this gene between males and females through animal behavior and gene expression studies in animal models.In terms of animal behavior,an open field test,elevated plus maze test,defensive burial experiment,forced swimming test,and 3D behavioral analysis were used.Other method were used to evaluate behavioral differences between male and female mice with polymorphisms in Maoa synonymous mutant genes.Results The result of the open field experiment showed that the residence time of female SNP mice in the central area was significantly higher than that of male SNP mice(P<0.001).In the elevated cross maze experiment,the EPM result showed that the time and frequency of male SNP mice entering the open arm were higher than those of female SNP mice,but there was no significant difference.The defensive burial test showed that the number and duration of excavations by female SNP mice in response to rat urine were significantly reduced(P<0.01).The FST showed that SNP females had shorter immobility time and longer swimming time(P<0.05),and thus their depression was lower than males.3D-AI fine behavior analysis showed no significant male and female differences,except for the movement trajectory and climbing behavior of mice.The MAOA enzyme content of female SNP mice was significantly lower than that of male SNP mice(P<0.001),but there was no significant difference in enzyme activity between male and female SNP mice.Conclusions The synonymous mutation of Maoa c.1409 T>C acts by affecting the expression of MAOA and may have different fear,anxiety,and mood effects in male and female SNP mice.
4.Strategies and Recommendations for the Development of Clinical Machine Learning Predictive Models
Zhengyao HOU ; Jinqi LI ; Yong YANG ; Mengting LI ; Hao SHEN ; Huan CHANG ; Xinyu LIU ; Bo DENG ; Guangjie GAO ; Yalin WEN ; Shiyue LIANG ; Yanqiu YU ; Shundong LEI ; Xingwei WU
Herald of Medicine 2024;43(12):2048-2056
Objective To propose strategies for developing clinical predictive models,aiming to assist researchers in conducting standardized clinical prediction model studies.Methods Literature review was conducted to summarize the operational steps and content for developing clinical predictive models.Then,a methodological framework was summarized and refined through expert consultation.Results The 11-step methodological framework for developing clinical predictive models was obtained by synthesizing the experience of 456 clinical predictive modeling studies and expert consultation,and the details were analyzed and elaborated.Conclusions This study presents methodological strategies and recommendations for the development of clinical predictive models,intended to serve as a guide for researchers.
5.Correlation between resilience,post-traumatic stress disorder and quality of life of front-line medical staff in public health emergencies
Bailu ZHU ; Huan LIU ; Qingling ZHONG ; Yuanzhen LI ; Xiufang HOU ; Xiubin TAO
Journal of Shenyang Medical College 2024;26(1):43-47,52
Objective:To explore the correlation between post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD),resilience and quality of life of front-line medical staff in public health emergencies.Methods:From Nov to Dec 2020,the medical staff of 4 COVID-19 designated hospitals in Wuhan were investigated with the general demographic questionnaire,10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale,PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 and Simplify Qualify of Life Scale.Spearman correlation analysis and hierarchical regression analysis were used to investigate the correlation between PTSD,resilience and quality of life.Results:A total of 545 questionnaires were collected in this survey and the valid effective rate was 97.8% (533/545).The score of psychological resilience,PTSD and quality of life of medical staff were 26(20,30),17(8,25),and 20(18,23),respectively.And 13.1% (70/533)of medical staff had obvious PTSD symptoms.There were significant differences in the score of quality of life among medical staff with different genders,occupations and PTSD levels.Spearman correlation analysis results showed that the score of PTSD was negatively correlated with quality of life and psychological resilience(r=-0.488 and-0.464,P<0.01).The score of psychological resilience was positively correlated with the score of quality of life(r =0.578,P<0.01).Psychological resilience and PTSD were important predictors of quality of life,with an explanatory capacity of 37.0% .Conclusions:PTSD is a risk factor for quality of life,and psychological resilience is a protective factor for quality of life.In public health emergencies,improving psychological resilience,preventing and treating PTSD can improve the quality of life of medical staff.
6.Research status of AQP5 regulation of programmed cell death in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Cheng-Cai YUN ; Li-Ying ZHANG ; Hong-Dou HOU ; Huan-Huan ZHANG ; Zhang-Bo SONG ; Wen-Xing YONG
The Chinese Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 2024;40(14):2134-2138
Aquaporin 5(AQP5),as the main water transport protein in the body,can regulate lung diseases by regulating airway mucus secretion,pulmonary inflammation,and lung function.Programmed cell death(PCD)plays a crucial role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).AQP5 may affect the development of COPD by regulating PCDs.This article reviews the molecular regulatory mechanism of AQP5 on apoptosis,autophagy,iron death and pyroptosis in PCDs in recent years,and further discusses its effect on COPD in order to provide theoretical support for clinical prevention and treatment of COPD.
7.The Role of α7nAChR in Alzheimer’s Disease
Dao-Bo DING ; Wen-Jun MU ; Xin LI ; Huan CHEN ; Hong-Wei HOU ; Qing-Yuan HU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2024;51(11):2897-2904
As the global population continues to age, the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, continues to rise significantly. As the disease progresses, the patient’s daily living abilities gradually decline, potentially leading to a complete loss of self-care abilities. According to estimates by the Alzheimer’s Association and the World Health Organization, AD accounts for 60%-70% of all other dementia cases, affecting over 55 million people worldwide. The case number is estimated to double by 2050. Despite extensive research, the precise etiology and pathogenesis of AD remain elusive. Researchers have a profound understanding of the disease’s pathological hallmarks, which include amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles resulting from the abnormal phosphorylation of Tau protein. However, the exact causes and mechanisms of the disease are still not fully understood, leaving a vital gap in our knowledge and understanding of this debilitating disease. A crucial player that has recently emerged in the field of AD research is the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR). α7nAChR is composed of five identical α7 subunits that form a homopentamer. This receptor is a significant subtype of acetylcholine receptor in the central nervous system and is widely distributed in various regions of the brain. It is particularly prevalent in the hippocampus and cortical areas, which are regions associated with learning and memory. α7nAChR plays a pivotal role in several neurological processes, including neurotransmitter release, neuronal plasticity, cell signal transduction, and inflammatory response, suggesting its potential involvement in numerous neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. In recent years, the role of α7nAChR in AD has been the focus of extensive research. Emerging evidence suggests that α7nAChR is involved in several critical steps in the disease progression of AD. These include involvement in the metabolism of amyloid β-protein (Aβ), the phosphorylation of Tau protein, neuroinflammatory response, and oxidative stress. Each of these processes contributes to the development and progression of AD, and the involvement of α7nAChR in these processes suggests that it may play a crucial role in the disease’s pathogenesis. The potential significance of α7nAChR in AD is further reinforced by the observation that alterations in its function or expression can have significant effects on cognitive abilities. These findings suggest that α7nAChR could be a promising target for therapeutic intervention in AD. At present, the results of drug clinical studies targeting α7nAChR show that these compounds have improvement and therapeutic effects in AD patients, but they have not reached the degree of being widely used in clinical practice, and their drug development still faces many challenges. Therefore, more research is needed to fully understand its role and to develop effective treatments based on this understanding. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the association between α7nAChR and AD pathogenesis. We provide an overview of the latest research developments and insights, and highlight potential avenues for future research. As we deepen our understanding of the role of α7nAChR in AD, it is hoped that this will pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for this devastating disease. By targeting α7nAChR, we may be able to develop more effective treatments for AD, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients and their families.
8.Therapeutic effect of oroxylin A on rheumatoid arthritis in mice
Jingjing YANG ; Jingman LI ; Jiali WANG ; Huan DOU ; Yayi HOU
Immunological Journal 2024;40(3):303-308
This study was performed to investigate the therapeutic effect of oroxylin A(OA)on chicken type Ⅱcollagen-induced arthritis(CIA)in mice and observe the changes of immune cells.The CIA model was established,and 40 mg/kg OA was intraperitoneally injected for 10 consecutive days from the 28th day.The mice were sacrificed at three different times during the administration period,and the joints were scored at each time point.HE staining was used to observe the pathology of the mouse ankle joint;flow cytometry was used to detect the changes of Th17,Treg and macrophages in spleen and inguinal lymph nodes;ELISA was employed to detect the expression levels of IL-1β,IL-18 and IL-6 in serum;and qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression levels of IL-1β,IL-18,IL-6 and TNF-β in spleen of mice.Data showed that on the 34th day after OA administration,the joint swelling of CIA mice was significantly relieved,the pathological score was decreased,and the inflammatory cell infiltration was decreased.Flow cytometry results showed that the proportion of Th17 cells and macrophages in the spleen and inguinal lymph nodes of CIA mice in OA group decreased,while the proportion of Treg cells increased.The results of ELISA and qRT-PCR showed that OA could inhibit the level of inflammation in CIA mice.In conclusion,OA can regulate the proportion of immune cells,inhibit the level of inflammation in CIA mice,and then relieve the symptoms of CIA mice.
9.J-shaped association between dietary zinc intake and new-onset hypertension: a nationwide cohort study in China.
Panpan HE ; Huan LI ; Mengyi LIU ; Zhuxian ZHANG ; Yuanyuan ZHANG ; Chun ZHOU ; Ziliang YE ; Qimeng WU ; Min LIANG ; Jianping JIANG ; Guobao WANG ; Jing NIE ; Fan Fan HOU ; Chengzhang LIU ; Xianhui QIN
Frontiers of Medicine 2023;17(1):156-164
We aimed to investigate the relationship of dietary zinc intake with new-onset hypertension among Chinese adults. A total of 12,177 participants who were free of hypertension at baseline from the China Health and Nutrition Survey were included. Dietary intake was assessed by three consecutive 24-h dietary recalls combined with a household food inventory. Participants with systolic blood pressure ≽ 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≽ 90 mmHg or diagnosed by a physician or under antihypertensive treatment during the follow-up were defined as having new-onset hypertension. During a median follow-up duration of 6.1 years, 4269 participants developed new-onset hypertension. Overall, the association between dietary zinc intake and new-onset hypertension followed a J-shape (P for non-linearity < 0.001). The risk of new-onset hypertension significantly decreased with the increment of dietary zinc intake (per mg/day: hazard ratio (HR) 0.93; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.88-0.98) in participants with zinc intake < 10.9 mg/day, and increased with the increment of zinc intake (per mg/day: HR 1.14; 95% CI 1.11-1.16) in participants with zinc intake ≽ 10.9 mg/day. In conclusion, there was a J-shaped association between dietary zinc intake and new-onset hypertension in general Chinese adults, with an inflection point at about 10.9 mg/day.
Adult
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Humans
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Cohort Studies
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Zinc
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Diet
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Hypertension/epidemiology*
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Eating
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China/epidemiology*
10.The suppression of cervical cancer ferroptosis by macrophages: The attenuation of ALOX15 in cancer cells by macrophages-derived exosomes.
Yanlin LUO ; Yibing CHEN ; Huan JIN ; Benxin HOU ; Hongsheng LI ; Xiang LI ; Lingfeng LIU ; Yuan ZHOU ; Yonghua LI ; Yong Sang SONG ; Quentin LIU ; Zhengzhi ZOU
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 2023;13(6):2645-2662
Induction of cancer cell ferroptosis has been proposed as a potential treatment in several cancer types. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a key role in promoting tumor malignant progression and therapy resistance. However, the roles and mechanisms of TAMs in regulating tumor ferroptosis is still unexplored and remains enigmatic. This study shows ferroptosis inducers has shown therapeutic outcomes in cervical cancer in vitro and in vivo. TAMs have been found to suppress cervical cancer cells ferroptosis. Mechanistically, macrophage-derived miRNA-660-5p packaged into exosomes are transported into cancer cells. In cancer cells, miRNA-660-5p attenuates ALOX15 expression to inhibit ferroptosis. Moreover, the upregulation of miRNA-660-5p in macrophages depends on autocrine IL4/IL13-activated STAT6 pathway. Importantly, in clinical cervical cancer cases, ALOX15 is negatively associated with macrophages infiltration, which also raises the possibility that macrophages reduce ALOX15 levels in cervical cancer. Moreover, both univariate and multivariate Cox analyses show ALOX15 expression is independent prognostic factor and positively associated with good prognosis in cervical cancer. Altogether, this study reveals the potential utility of targeting TAMs in ferroptosis-based treatment and ALOX15 as prognosis indicators for cervical cancer.

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