1.Research progress on cell membrane biomimetic nanoparticles for delivery of antitumor natural products
Luhua MENG ; Hong PAN ; Shuhuan LIU ; Mengmeng SHEN
China Pharmacy 2026;37(4):547-552
Natural products have shown great potential in the research and development of antitumor drugs. However, their clinical application is severely limited by inherent drawbacks such as poor water solubility, low stability, and low bioavailability. Cell membrane biomimetic nanoparticles, as a novel drug delivery system, have provided new strategies to overcome this bottleneck. This review systematically summarizes the preparation methods (e.g., membrane extrusion, ultrasonic fusion, and microfluidic electroporation) and characterization techniques (e.g., particle size, Zeta potential, and membrane surface protein detection) of cell membrane biomimetic nanoparticles, with a focus on the application of these derived from various sources in delivering antitumor natural products. Cell membrane biomimetic nanoparticles are endowed with unique biological functions, including low immunogenicity conferred by stem cell membranes, prolonged systemic circulation enabled by red blood cell membranes, and homologous targeting facilitated by tumor cell membranes. Despite these advancements, the technology still faces challenges such as difficulties in large-scale production, high costs, and limited characterization methods. Future research needs to further optimize the relevant processes to promote the clinical translation of cell membrane-biomimetic nanoparticles, thereby offering an efficient and safe novel delivery approach for antitumor therapy using natural products.
2.Flavonoids Intervene in Diabetic Nephropathy by Regulating TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathway: A Review
Qihui QIU ; Chang LIU ; Xiaotong YAN ; Jinwei HAN ; Hui SUN ; Fengting YIN ; Yuhang WANG ; Mengmeng WANG ; Xijun WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):300-309
Diabetic nephropathy (DKD), as a common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), is a major cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Its clinical manifestations include increased urinary protein excretion, thickening of the glomerular basement membrane, and renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The pathogenesis of DKD is complex and involves multiple factors, including disordered glucose metabolism, hemodynamic alterations, and oxidative stress. Although modern medical approaches can alleviate certain symptoms, they still have limitations such as insufficient therapeutic targeting and prominent adverse effects. The transforming growth factor-β/Smad (TGF-β/Smad) signaling pathway is not only a tissue fibrosis pathway that has attracted considerable attention in recent years, but also regulates multiple protein molecules, including the glomerular podocyte slit diaphragm protein Podocin, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), thereby participating in various pathological processes and ultimately mediating renal injury. Flavonoid compounds, owing to their sustained pharmacological effects, broad spectrum of action, and high safety profile, have become ideal candidates for targeted therapy research in DKD. Existing studies have shown that these compounds can exert inhibitory effects on renal fibrosis, alleviate inflammatory responses, protect podocytes, and reduce oxidative stress by regulating the interactions between the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and the aforementioned protein molecules, thereby maintaining renal structure and function, reducing proteinuria, and significantly improving DKD lesions. This review briefly outlines the composition and functions of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, elucidates the mechanisms by which this pathway regulates DKD, and focuses on summarizing major studies from the past decade on flavonoid-based interventions in DKD through targeted inhibition of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Furthermore, it discusses the considerable therapeutic potential of flavonoids in the treatment of this disease, aiming to provide a scientific basis for future clinical prevention and treatment of DKD and to promote the development of targeted drugs.
3.Interpretation of Evidence-to-decision Framework and Its Application in Pharmacovigilance Guidelines of Chinese Patent Medicines
Hongyan ZHANG ; Xin CUI ; Yuanyuan LI ; Zhifei WANG ; Mengmeng WANG ; Shuo YANG ; Xiaoxiao ZHAO ; Fumei LIU ; Yaxin WANG ; Rui MA ; Yanming XIE ; Lianxin WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):220-228
To interpret the evidence-to-decision (EtD) framework and to illustrate its application in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) guideline development using the example of the Pharmacovigilance Guideline of Chinese Patent Medicine, thereby providing methodological references for TCM guideline standardization. Based on the core three stages of the EtD framework (formulating the question, making an assessment of the evidence, and drawing conclusions), critical decision points and evaluation evidence within the evidence-translation process were systematically addressed, aligning with the purpose, scope, and key questions of the guideline. Qualitative research methods, such as the nominal group technique, were employed to formulate recommendations. The analysis was conducted based on the EtD framework. During question formulation, the specific characteristics and practical needs of pharmacovigilance for Chinese patent medicines were clarified, focusing on the core objective of safety assurance throughout the product lifecycle. In the evidence assessment, multi-source evidence was integrated, including policy documents, literature research, and expert consensus, completing the evidence evaluation. Finally, in recommendation-forming, dispersed research evidence and expert experience were synthesized into consensus, culminating in the guideline's completion through solicitation of opinions and peer review. The EtD framework provides a structured tool for evidence-to-decision translation in TCM guideline development, effectively enhancing the transparency and scientific rigor of the process. Therefore, it is recommended that TCM guideline development adopt the EtD framework to improve the evidence-to-decision process with TCM characteristics.
4.Compilation Instruction for Pharmacovigilance Guidelines for Clinical Application of Oral Chinese Patent Medicines
Hongyan ZHANG ; Zhifei WANG ; Shuo YANG ; Ruili WEI ; Wenqian PENG ; Yuanyuan LI ; Xin CUI ; Xiaoxiao ZHAO ; Fumei LIU ; Mengmeng WANG ; Yanming XIE ; Lianxin WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):245-251
To standardize the clinical application of oral Chinese patent medicines (CPMs), and address the safety issues arising from their dosage form characteristics, irrational clinical use, and the lack of targeted pharmacovigilance systems, the China Association of Chinese Medicine organized the formulation and release of Pharmacovigilance Guidelines for Clinical Application of Oral Chinese Patent Medicines, aiming to inform the safe clinical use of oral CPMs and related pharmacovigilance work. According to the principles of GB/T1.1—2020 and the Drug Administration Law of the People's Republic of China (2019 revision), the Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, led a drafting group comprising 18 institutions. After multiple rounds of expert interviews, literature retrieval, evidence screening, and extensive solicitation of opinions, the Guidelines were registered internationally. Systematic standardization focused on safety monitoring, risk identification, assessment, control, and other aspects. The Guidelines clarified the characteristics of oral CPMs in terms of safety monitoring, known risks, and potential risks, compared to non-oral CPMs. Then, risk control measures were proposed, including medication in special populations and irrational medication. As a special guideline for pharmacovigilance in the clinical application of oral CPMs, the Guidelines systematically construct a technical system in line with the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which is essential for improving the clinical safety management of oral CPMs and provides an important reference for medical institutions, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and regulatory authorities.
5.Interpretation of Evidence-to-decision Framework and Its Application in Pharmacovigilance Guidelines of Chinese Patent Medicines
Hongyan ZHANG ; Xin CUI ; Yuanyuan LI ; Zhifei WANG ; Mengmeng WANG ; Shuo YANG ; Xiaoxiao ZHAO ; Fumei LIU ; Yaxin WANG ; Rui MA ; Yanming XIE ; Lianxin WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):220-228
To interpret the evidence-to-decision (EtD) framework and to illustrate its application in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) guideline development using the example of the Pharmacovigilance Guideline of Chinese Patent Medicine, thereby providing methodological references for TCM guideline standardization. Based on the core three stages of the EtD framework (formulating the question, making an assessment of the evidence, and drawing conclusions), critical decision points and evaluation evidence within the evidence-translation process were systematically addressed, aligning with the purpose, scope, and key questions of the guideline. Qualitative research methods, such as the nominal group technique, were employed to formulate recommendations. The analysis was conducted based on the EtD framework. During question formulation, the specific characteristics and practical needs of pharmacovigilance for Chinese patent medicines were clarified, focusing on the core objective of safety assurance throughout the product lifecycle. In the evidence assessment, multi-source evidence was integrated, including policy documents, literature research, and expert consensus, completing the evidence evaluation. Finally, in recommendation-forming, dispersed research evidence and expert experience were synthesized into consensus, culminating in the guideline's completion through solicitation of opinions and peer review. The EtD framework provides a structured tool for evidence-to-decision translation in TCM guideline development, effectively enhancing the transparency and scientific rigor of the process. Therefore, it is recommended that TCM guideline development adopt the EtD framework to improve the evidence-to-decision process with TCM characteristics.
6.Compilation Instruction for Pharmacovigilance Guidelines for Clinical Application of Oral Chinese Patent Medicines
Hongyan ZHANG ; Zhifei WANG ; Shuo YANG ; Ruili WEI ; Wenqian PENG ; Yuanyuan LI ; Xin CUI ; Xiaoxiao ZHAO ; Fumei LIU ; Mengmeng WANG ; Yanming XIE ; Lianxin WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):245-251
To standardize the clinical application of oral Chinese patent medicines (CPMs), and address the safety issues arising from their dosage form characteristics, irrational clinical use, and the lack of targeted pharmacovigilance systems, the China Association of Chinese Medicine organized the formulation and release of Pharmacovigilance Guidelines for Clinical Application of Oral Chinese Patent Medicines, aiming to inform the safe clinical use of oral CPMs and related pharmacovigilance work. According to the principles of GB/T1.1—2020 and the Drug Administration Law of the People's Republic of China (2019 revision), the Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, led a drafting group comprising 18 institutions. After multiple rounds of expert interviews, literature retrieval, evidence screening, and extensive solicitation of opinions, the Guidelines were registered internationally. Systematic standardization focused on safety monitoring, risk identification, assessment, control, and other aspects. The Guidelines clarified the characteristics of oral CPMs in terms of safety monitoring, known risks, and potential risks, compared to non-oral CPMs. Then, risk control measures were proposed, including medication in special populations and irrational medication. As a special guideline for pharmacovigilance in the clinical application of oral CPMs, the Guidelines systematically construct a technical system in line with the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which is essential for improving the clinical safety management of oral CPMs and provides an important reference for medical institutions, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and regulatory authorities.
7.Fufang Kangjiaolv Capsules Treat Anxiety in Rat Model of Chronic Restraint Stress via Microbiota-gut-brain Axis
Wenxin FAN ; Tingyue JIANG ; Yu WANG ; Ge ZHANG ; Yifan LU ; Mengmeng LIU ; Jiayuan LI ; Renzhi MA ; Jinli SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(4):95-107
ObjectiveTo observe the intervention effect of Fufang Kangjiaolv capsules on anxiety-like behaviors in the rat model of chronic restraint stress (CRS) and explore the mechanism underlying the anti-anxiety effect via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. MethodsRats were assigned into blank, model, positive drug (diazepam, 1 mg·kg-1), and low-, medium-, and high-dose (0.75, 1.5, 3 g·kg-1, respectively) Fufang Kangjiaolv capsules groups. After 14 days of administration, the elevated plus maze test, open field test, light and dark box test, and marble burying test were performed. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was employed to observe the pathological changes in the hippocampus and colon of rats, and Nissl staining was conducted to observe the damage of hippocampal neurons. The gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) was employed to determine the mRNA levels of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin in the colon of rats. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the colon, serum, and hippocampus were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Western blot was employed to determine the protein levels of ZO-1, occludin, nuclear factor-κB p65 (NF-κB p65) in the colon tissue and NF-κB p65 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampal tissue. ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group showed reductions in the time and frequency ratio of rats entering the elevated plus maze, the time and frequency of rats entering the central area of the open field, the time of entering the open box, the times of passing through the light and dark box, and the number of unburied beads (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, Fufang Kangjiaolv capsules ameliorated the anxiety of the model rats to varying degrees, and the high-dose group had the best effect, with increases in the proportions of time and frequency of rats entering the open arm in the elevated plus maze (P<0.05), the number of rats entering the central area in the open field (P<0.05), the time of entering the open box, the times of passing through the light and dark boxes, and the number of unburied beads (P<0.01). Moreover, the high-dose group showed alleviated pathological damage of hippocampal neurons and colon. The results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the model group had increased relative abundance of Firmicutes, Deferribacterota, Romboutsia, and Phascolarctobacterium, while it had decreased relative abundance of Bavcteroidota and Lactobacillus. The drug administration groups showed increased relative abundance of Bavcteroidota, Bacteroides, norank f norank o Clostridia UCG-014, and Blautia and decreased relative abundance of Firmicutes and Deferribacterota. Compared with the blank group, the model group showed down-regulated protein and mRNA levels of ZO-1 and occludin in the colon (P<0.01), elevated levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-β in the colon, serum, and hippocampus (P<0.01), up-regulated protein level of NF-κB p65 in the colon and hippocampus (P<0.01), and down-regulated protein level of BDNF in the hippocampus (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, high-dose Fufang Kangjiaolv capsules up-regulated the mRNA levels of ZO-1 and occludin in the colon (P<0.01), lowered the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-β in the colon, serum, and hippocampus (P<0.01), up-regulated the protein levels of ZO-1 (P<0.01) and occludin (P<0.05) in the colon, down-regulated the protein level of NF-κB p65 in the colon and hippocampus (P<0.05), and up-regulated the protein level of BDNF in the hippocampus. ConclusionFufang Kangjiaolv capsules can reduce the anxiety-like behaviors in the rat model of CRS by regulating the gut microbiota disturbance, up-regulating the expression of tight junction proteins in the colon, repairing intestinal mucosal mechanical barrier, and down-regulating NF-κB/BDNF signaling pathway, thereby reducing peripheral and central inflammation. This study proves the hypothesis that Fufang Kangjiaolv capsules play an anti-anxiety role via the microbiota-gut-brain axis, providing a new idea for further research.
8.Dynamic distribution and clearance of 99mTc-DTPA in brain extracellular space
Jing ZOU ; Tianzi GAO ; Yang WANG ; Mengmeng REN ; Dongyang LIU ; Ren LONG ; Yumeng CHENG ; Meng LIU ; Zhengren XU ; Zhaoheng XIE ; Pengyu LV ; Lan YUAN ; Hongbin HAN
Journal of Peking University(Health Sciences) 2025;57(3):562-568
Objective:To explore the distribution and clearance of 99mTc labeled diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid(99mTc-DTPA)in different brain regions of adult rats after administration through brain extracellular space(ECS)pathway.Methods:After the injection of a volume of 2 μL and radioactive activity of about 3.7 MBq(100 μCi)of 99mTc-DTPA into the caudate nucleus and thalamus of SD rats through stereotactic positioning of rat brain,the single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography(SPECT/CT)for small animals was used for imaging at different time points,and the dyna-mic distribution and clearance of the tracer in the whole body were observed continuously.The SD rats were injected with 99mTc-DTPA into thalamus and caudate nucleus respectively for biological distribution in vivo.They were put to death 4 h later.Their blood and urine were collected.The brain,cerebellum,heart,liver,spleen,lung,and kidney were taken and weighed by γ counter to measure its radioactivity.Results:SPECT/CT imaging results showed that after 99mTc-DTPA was administered through brain ECS,the radioactivity was concentrated in the brain,kidney and bladder.The tracer administered to the left caudate nucleus was preferentially drained to the right cerebellum,while the tracer administered to the right caudate nucleus was preferentially drained to the left cerebellum.There was a phenomenon of"con-tralateral cerebellar dominant drainage"in the caudate nucleus.The thalamic area preferentially drained to the ipsilateral cerebellum after administration.Four hours after administration via ECS,high radioac-tive uptake appeared in urine,cerebellum and brain,followed by blood and kidney.The radioactive up-take values of heart,liver,spleen and lung were low,which were mainly excreted through urinary sys-tem.Conclusion:Intracerebral ECS administration is a promising method of administration,but there are significant differences in distribution and clearance in different brain regions.This study further ex-pands the content and significance of"ECS regions",and also provides an important theoretical founda-tion for the treatment of encephalopathy and the research of new drugs through brain ECS in the future.
9.The relationship between serum ferritin and metabolic associated fatty liver disease in adolescents
Mengmeng LIU ; Xue LI ; Yue FEI ; Xiahong XU
China Modern Doctor 2025;63(15):19-24
Objective To investigate the relationship between serum ferritin(SF)and metabolic associated fatty liver disease(MAFLD)in adolescents.Methods This study utilized data from 2017 to 2020 national health and nutrition examination survey database,ultimately including 559 adolescents aged 12~18 years,divided into MAFLD group(119 cases)and non-MAFLD group(440 cases).Data on demographic characteristics,serum iron metabolism indicators,liver function,lipid profiles,glucose levels,and other relevant parameters were collected.Liver steatosis and fibrosis were assessed using vibration-controlled transient elastography.Pearson correlation and Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between SF and MAFLD.Results SF levels were significantly higher in MAFLD group compared to non-MAFLD group(P<0.05).Pearson correlation analysis indicated that SF was positively correlated with the controlled attenuation parameter,liver stiffness measurement,body mass index(BMI),alanine aminotransferase(ALT),γ-glutamyl transferase,triglycerides,and uric acid levels(P<0.05),but negatively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels(P<0.05).Adolescents were divided into 4 groups according to the quartiles of SF levels(Q1 goup:SF 1.9-25.6ng/ml;Q2 goup:SF 25.7-41.7ng/ml;Q3 goup:SF 41.8-70.4ng/ml;Q4 goup:SF 70.5-445.0ng/ml).The results of Logistic regression analysis showed that when the variables were not adjusted,the risk of MAFLD in Q4 group adolescents was significantly increased,this association disappeared after adjusting for gender,age,race,BMI,and other factors.BMI(OR=1.250,95%CI:1.176-1.329),globulin(OR=2.991,95%CI:1.218-7.343),ALT(OR=1.052,95%CI:1.003-1.104),and white blood cell count(OR=1.225,95%CI:1.041-1.441)were identified as independent risk factors for MAFLD.Conclusion SF levels are significantly elevated in adolescents with MAFLD but are not independently associated with the occurrence of MAFLD.BMI,globulin,ALT,and white blood cell count are important risk factors for adolescent MAFLD.
10.The role of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in skin wound repair:A literature review
Xinyu LIU ; Mengmeng KONG ; Yi FU ; Jialin LAI ; Jun LI ; Jianghua SUN
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(21):3462-3466
Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent stromal cells that possess the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into multiple cell lineages.Due to the ease of procurement,robust expansion in vitro,the multipotency,they are recognized as a vital source of stem cells in the field of regenerative medicine.MSCs can be isolated from various tissues,including bone marrow,adipose tissue,and umbilical cord.Research indicates that Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells(hUCMSCs)play an effective role in wound healing and tissue regeneration,and can be utilized for the repair of skin wounds.They are also considered to be the most promising seed cells for skin tissue engineering.This review aims to provide an overview of the biological characteristics of hUCMSCs,the mechanisms in promoting skin wound healing,and their clinical applications.

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail