1.Exploring CRISPR/Cas9 Technology for The Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Shu-Xian WANG ; Fei-Fei GUO ; Guang-Qiang MA
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(4):1000-1014
The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/associated protein 9 (CRISPR /Cas9) immune system is an adaptive immune system widely distributed in bacteria and archaea. It precisely defends against invasion by exogenous phages, viruses, and plasmids through sequence-specific endogenous immune response mechanisms. As the most prominent member of this family, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has evolved into the most widely applied, flexible, and efficient technical platform in the field of genome engineering due to its exceptional genome modification capabilities. Within the CRISPR/Cas9 system, the Cas9 protein, precisely guided by a single-stranded guide RNA (gRNA), can specifically recognize target DNA sequences and induce double-strand breaks. This activates the cell’s DNA repair mechanisms, enabling gene knockout, knock-in, or modification. Demonstrating significant advantages in specificity, flexibility, and operability, CRISPR/Cas9 technology has shown immense potential in the medical field, opening new avenues for modernizing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) research. On one hand, this technology can be used to construct precise disease models and tailor personalized treatment plans. It enables in-depth elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the action targets and signaling pathways of TCM formulas and active components, thereby unraveling the scientific secrets of their complex mechanisms of action. On the other hand, it demonstrates powerful tool value in improving TCM germplasm resources, identifying and screening superior varieties, evaluating the controllability of TCM quality, and producing innovative drugs, providing technical support for the standardization and precision of TCM. Simultaneously, the high-throughput omics data generated by CRISPR technology is driving artificial intelligence (AI) to construct virtual disease models and drug prediction systems. This empowers the intelligent screening of effective TCM components, the precise prediction of potential targets, and the exploration of “reducing toxicity while enhancing efficacy” through formula combinations. This synergistic innovation between CRISPR and AI aligns perfectly with precision medicine’s urgent demand for personalized, efficient drug development, injecting new momentum into the modernization and transformation of TCM. This paper first systematically reviews and explains the developmental trajectory, structural basis, and action mechanisms of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, tracing its scientific evolution from a bacterial immune system to a gene-editing tool. It then comprehensively outlines the current state of convergence between precision medicine concepts and modernization research in TCM, analyzing the synergistic points and potential spaces for their integration. Against the backdrop of rapid precision medicine advancement, this paper emphasizes how CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology empowers in-depth analysis of TCM mechanisms—including specific applications in disease model construction, therapeutic target validation, and multi-target network regulation studies. It further elaborates on its multidimensional practical contributions to modernizing TCM, spanning key domains such as germplasm resource innovation, bioactive compound biosynthesis, quality standardization control, and novel TCM drug development. Finally, this paper envisions the future landscape of deep integration between CRISPR technology and AI: from data-driven intelligent drug screening to high-throughput precision discovery of effective TCM components, and further to intelligent model construction based on “reducing toxicity while enhancing efficacy” mechanisms. The synergistic convergence of these multidimensional technologies will pioneer new scientific paradigms and translational pathways for TCM modernization, propelling TCM toward leapfrogging development in the era of precision medicine.
2.Experts consensus on appropriate technologies for three-generation family cohort study
NI Saili ; TANG Jinling ; SHU Qiang ; ZHU Shankuan
Journal of Preventive Medicine 2026;38(1):1-9
Establishing a three-generation family cohort enables the investigation of the effects of genetic, epigenetic, lifestyle, and parenting factors in the grandparental (F0) and parental (F1) generations on the growth, development, and disease onset and progression of the offspring (F2). It facilitates further exploration of the biological mechanisms underlying the impact of intergenerational factors on the health of the offspring (F2), providing evidence for the formulation of public health policies and measures related to child health management and infant and young child care. Currently, the development of multi-generational cohorts in China remains in a preliminary stage, with no systematic multi-generational research framework yet established. Drawing on prior evidence-based scientific research, existing cohort studies, and the practical experience of multidisciplinary experts in maternal and child health, this consensus defines the scope of three-generation family cohorts regarding their definition, significance, key technologies, and application scenarios. It provides technical recommendations for establishing relevant cohorts, aiming to support research areas such as the intergenerational transmission of childhood diseases, the maternal intrauterine environment, and the tracing of family rearing environments. This will facilitate the early prevention and control of diseases manifesting in childhood and adulthood, ultimately promoting the comprehensive and healthy development of children.
3.Diagnosis and treatment guideline for acute cervical spinal cord injury without fracture-dislocation in adults (version 2025)
Qingde WANG ; Tongwei CHU ; Jian DONG ; Liangjie DU ; Haoyu FENG ; Shunwu FAN ; Shiqing FENG ; Yanzheng GAO ; Yong HAI ; Da HE ; Dianming JIANG ; Jianyuan JIANG ; Bin LIN ; Bin LIU ; Baoge LIU ; Fang LI ; Feng LI ; Li LI ; Weishi LI ; Fangcai LI ; Xiaoguang LIU ; Hongjian LIU ; Yong LIU ; Zhongjun LIU ; Shibao LU ; Xuhua LU ; Keya MAO ; Xuexiao MA ; Yong QIU ; Limin RONG ; Jun SHU ; Yueming SONG ; Tiansheng SUN ; Yan WANG ; Zhe WANG ; Zheng WANG ; Bing WANG ; Linfeng WANG ; Yu WANG ; Qinghe WANG ; Jigong WU ; Hong XIA ; Guoyong YIN ; Jinglong YAN ; Wen YUAN ; Yong YANG ; Qiang YANG ; Cao YANG ; Jie ZHAO ; Jianguo ZHANG ; Yue ZHU ; Zezhang ZHU ; Yingjie ZHOU ; Zhongmin ZHANG ; Yan ZENG ; Dingjun HAO ; Baorong HE ; Wei MEI
Chinese Journal of Trauma 2025;41(3):243-252
Cervical spinal cord injury without fracture-dislocation (CSCIWFD) is referred to as a special type of cervical spinal cord injury characterized by traumatic spinal cord dysfunction and no significant bony structural abnormalities on imagines. Duo to the high risk of missed diagnosis during the initial consultation, CSCIWFD may lead to progressive neurological deterioration or even complete paralysis, severely impacting patients′ prognosis. Currently, there are no established consensuses over the diagnosis and treatment of CSCIWFD, such as the lack of evidence-based standards for indications of non-surgical treatment and risk of secondary neurological injury, as well as debates over the optimal timing for surgical intervention and indications for different surgical approaches. To address these issues, the Spine Trauma Group of the Orthopedic Branch of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association organized experts in the relevant fields to formulate Diagnosis and treatment guideline for acute cervical spinal cord injury without fracture- dislocation in adults ( version 2025) . Based on evidence-based medicine and the principles of scientific rigor and clinical applicability, the guidelines proposed 11 recommendations covering terminology, diagnosis, evaluation treatment, and rehabilitation, etc., aiming to standardize the management of CSCIWFD.
4.Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of vertebral refracture after percutaneous vertebral augmentation in elderly patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar compression fractures (version 2025)
Yong YANG ; Xiaoguang ZHOU ; Qixin CHEN ; Jian CHEN ; Jian DONG ; Liangjie DU ; Shunwu FAN ; Jin FAN ; Zhong FANG ; Haoyu FENG ; Shiqing FENG ; Haishan GUAN ; Aiguo GAO ; Yanzheng GAO ; Yong HAI ; Da HE ; Dengwei HE ; Haiyi HE ; Dianming JIANG ; Xuewen KANG ; Bin LIN ; Baoge LIU ; Changqing LI ; Fang LI ; Li LI ; Fangcai LI ; Weishi LI ; Xiaoguang LIU ; Hongjian LIU ; Xinyu LIU ; Yong LIU ; Zhongjun LIU ; Shibao LU ; Xuhua LU ; Fei LUO ; Yuhai MA ; Keya MAO ; Xuexiao MA ; Bin MENG ; Xu NING ; Limin RONG ; Hongxun SANG ; Jun SHU ; Tiansheng SUN ; Dasheng TIAN ; Zheng WANG ; Bing WANG ; Linfeng WANG ; Qingde WANG ; Qinghe WANG ; Lan WEI ; Jigong WU ; Baoshan XU ; Youjia XU ; Guoyong YIN ; Jinglong YAN ; Feng YAN ; Cao YANG ; Huilin YANG ; Qiang YANG ; Bin ZHAO ; Jie ZHAO ; Yue ZHU ; Jianguo ZHANG ; Wenzhi ZHANG ; Zhongmin ZHANG ; Zhaomin ZHENG ; Yan ZENG ; Baorong HE ; Wei MEI
Chinese Journal of Trauma 2025;41(7):613-626
Vertebral refracture following percutaneous vertebral augmentation (PVA) is commonly seen in elderly patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar compression fractures (OTLCF). It can lead to recurrent pain, loss of vertebral height, progression of kyphosis, and even neurological dysfunction, significantly impairing patients′ quality of life. Current diagnosis and treatment face multiple challenges, including high misdiagnosis rate, difficulty in choosing between surgical and non-surgical treatment options, lack of standardized surgical protocols, interference from intralesional bone cement during procedures, inadequate stability of internal fixation in osteoporotic bone, and suboptimal compliance of anti-osteoporotic therapy. Establishing a standardized diagnostic and therapeutic framework is urgently needed. To standardize the management process and improve outcomes for vertebral refractures after PVA in elderly OTLCF patients, Spinal Trauma Group of the Orthopedic Branch of Chinese Medical Doctor Association organized experts in the field to develop Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of vertebral refracture after percutaneous vertebral augmentation in elderly patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar compression fractures ( version 2025), based on current literature and clinical experience, and adhering to principles of scientific rigor and clinical applicability. A total of 11 recommendations were proposed, encompassing diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of vertebral refracture after PVA in elderly patients with OTLCF, aiming to provide a foundation for a standardized management.
5.Evidence-based guidelines for rehabilitation treatment after internal fixation of thoracolumbar spine fracture in adults (version 2025)
Zhengwei XU ; Liming CHENG ; Qixin CHEN ; Jian DONG ; Shunwu FAN ; Zhong FANG ; Shiqing FENG ; Haoyu FENG ; Haishan GUAN ; Weimin JIANG ; Dianming JIANG ; Yong HAI ; Lijun HE ; Yuan HE ; Bo LI ; Jianjun LI ; Feng LI ; Li LI ; Weishi LI ; Chunde LI ; Qi LIAO ; Baoge LIU ; Xiaoguang LIU ; Yong LIU ; Xuhua LU ; Shibao LU ; Bin LIN ; Wei MEI ; Chao MA ; Renfu QUAN ; Limin RONG ; Jiacan SU ; Honghui SUN ; Yuemin SONG ; Hongxun SANG ; Jun SHU ; Tiansheng SUN ; Jiwei TIAN ; Qiang WANG ; Xinwei WANG ; Zhe WANG ; Zheng WANG ; Liang YAN ; Guoyong YIN ; Jie ZHAO ; Yue ZHU ; Xiaobo ZHANG ; Xuesong ZHANG ; Zhongmin ZHANG ; Rongqiang ZHANG ; Dingjun HAO ; Yanzheng GAO ; Baorong HE
Chinese Journal of Trauma 2025;41(1):19-32
Thoracolumbar spine fracture often leads to severe pain, functional impairments, and neurological deficits, for which open reduction and internal fixation can effectively restore the spinal structural stability. Open decompression and reduction with internal fixation can help relieve spinal cord compression and improve spinal function in cases of concomitant cord injury. Although spinal stability can be restored through surgery, patients often face chronic pain and functional impairments postoperatively. A postoperative rehabilitation program is critical in optimizing therapeutic outcomes, reducing complications, and minimizing the risk of secondary injuries. However, current rehabilitation methods, such as physical therapy, functional training, and pain management, are confronted with problems in clinical practice, including significant variation in efficacy, poor patient adherence, and prolonged rehabilitation period. There is an urgent need for a unified rehabilitation strategy to address these problems. To this end, the Spinal Trauma Group of the Orthopedic Physicians Branch of the Chinese Medical Association and the Spine Health Professional Committee of the Chinese Human Health Technology Promotion Association organized experts from relevant fields to formulate Evidence-based guidelines for rehabilitation treatment after internal fixation of thoracolumbar spine fracture in adults ( version 2025) by integrating evidences from clinical researches and advanced rehabilitation concepts at home and abroad. A total number of 14 recommendations concerning the rehabilitation treatment with multimodal analgesia, psychological intervention, deep vein thrombosis prevention, core muscle and extremity exercise, appropriate use of braces, early weight-bearing, device-aided rehabilitation exercise, neuroregulatory therapy, rehabilitation team were put forward, aiming to standardize the post-operative rehabilitation process following internal fixation, promote the functional recovery, and enhance patients′ quality of life.
6.Role and mechanism of RNA m6A methyltransferase WTAP in epithelial-mesenchymal transition of glioblastoma cells
Cong-Wei LIU ; Wen-Ying LYU ; Shu-Wei WANG ; Sheng-Qiang XIE ; CHENG-GANG ; Jian-Ning ZHANG
Medical Journal of Chinese People's Liberation Army 2025;50(11):1433-1443
Objective To explore the role and mechanism of RNA m6A methyltransferase Wilms'tumor 1-associated protein(WTAP)in epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)of glioblastoma cells and its association with transcription factor JUNB.Methods(1)Based on the Cancer Genome Atlas(TCGA)and Genotype-Tissue Expression(GTEx)databases,the expression levels of transforming growth factor β(TGF-β),WTAP,and JUNB in glioblastoma multiforme(GBM)and normal brain tissues were analyzed,as well as their diagnostic and prognostic values for GBM.The correlation of TGF-β,WTAP,and JUNB with gliomas of different WHO grades was analyzed using the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas(CGGA)database.Spearman correlation analysis was performed to assess the correlation between TGF-β and m6A methyltransferases.(2)An EMT model was established in human astrocytoma U87-MG cells through TGF-β1 induction.qRT-PCR and Western blotting were employed to detect the expression levels of WTAP,JUNB,matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP2),and N-cadherin.The migration capacity of U87-MG cells was evaluated by wound-healing and Transwell assays.An m6A RNA methylation quantification kit(colorimetric)was used to detect RNA m6A methylation modification levels.A stable cell line with low expression of WTAP was constructed to investigate the effects of WTAP knockdown on the migration ability of U87-MG cells,as well as the expression of JUNB.(3)A protein-protein interaction network was constructed using STRING database and GeneMANIA database,followed by gene ontology(GO)and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses to explore the biological processes,molecular functions,cellular components,and signaling pathways potentially involved in TGF-β/WTAP/JUNB.Gene set enrichment analysis(GSEA)was performed on JUNB-related genes to investigate their potential downstream signaling pathways.Results(1)The expression levels of TGF-β,WTAP,and JUNB were significantly higher in GBM(P<0.001),positively correlated with WHO grades of glioma(P<0.001).Glioma patients with high expression of all three genes had shorter overall and disease-free survival(P<0.001).Spearman analysis showed that the expression of TGF-β in GBM was positively correlated with WTAP(r=0.175,P=0.023),but no significant correlation with other m6A methyltransferases(P>0.05).(2)After TGF-β1 treatment,the level of m6A methylation modification of total RNA in U87-MG cells significantly increased(P<0.001).Wound-healing assay and Transwell assay results showed that the migration ability of U87-MG cells was significantly increased after TGF-β1 treatment(P<0.01),while WTAP knockdown significantly reduced the migration ability of U87-MG cells(P<0.01).qRT-PCR and Western blotting results showed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of WTAP,N-Cadherin,MMP2,and JUNB in U87-MG cells were significantly increased after 48 h of TGF-β1 induction(P<0.001),while WTAP knockdown significantly reduced the mRNA and protein expression of JUNB(P<0.001).(3)The TGF-β/WTAP/JUNB-related protein-protein interaction network was constructed,which was primary involved in mRNA modification and EMT.GSEA results showed that JUNB-related signaling pathways were closely associated with glioma malignant progression.Conclusions TGF-β,WTAP,and JUNB are all associated with GBM malignant progression and poor patient prognosis.TGF-β may enhance total RNA m6A modification by promoting the expression of m6A methyltransferase WTAP,and WTAP subsquentaly upregulates transcription factor JUNB,thereby promoting EMT and malignant progression of GBM.
7.Analysis of China's cross-regional medical insurance settlement policy based on policy tools
Shi-qiang WANG ; Hui WANG ; Shu ZHANG ; Zi-qi ZHANG ; Yi-jie LI ; Jia-yi LIU ; Guo-heng HU
Chinese Journal of Health Policy 2025;18(10):32-39
Objective:Systematically review the release status and characteristics of policies related to cross-regional medical insurance settlement policies in China,providing reference for promoting the convenience of medical insurance settlement services and improving management efficiency.Methods:Using content analysis,a two-dimensional framework of"policy objectives-policy tools"was constructed.A total of 127 policy documents were coded and analyzed.Results:Demand-based tools were applied most frequently(43.6%),followed by environmental and supply-based tools.Policy objectives mainly focused on improving service convenience,supported by expanding coverage and ensuring regulatory security.Conclusions:China's cross-regional medical insurance settlement policies have improved service accessibility and strengthened institutional supervision while gradually expanding coverage.However,deficiencies remain in assessment refinement and emergency mechanisms.Greater interdepartmental coordination is needed to enhance regulatory linkage and ensure the safe operation of medical insurance funds.
8.Therapeutic effect of levocarnitine combined with Shenmai injection on heart failure caused by ischemic cardiomyopathy:a meta-analysis
Chinese Journal of cardiovascular Rehabilitation Medicine 2025;34(2):216-221
Objective:To review systematically the curative effect and safety of levocarnitine combined with Shenmai injection in the treatment of heart failure caused by ischemic cardiomyopathy.Methods:We searched the databases of PubMcd,Cochrane Library,EMbase,CBM,CNKI,WanFang and VIP for randomized controlled trials(RCTs)comparing the effect upon heart failure caused by ischemic cardiomyopathy between levocarnitine combined with Shenmai injection versus standard treatment from the establishment to June 12th,2023.The pooled odds ratio(OR)or mean difference(MD)with 95%confidence interval(CI)were calculated with a Meta-analysis using the Rev-Man 5.4 software.Results:21 eligible literatures were included,involving 2055 patients[mean age(63.86±9.90)years,males 61.27%].Pooled analysis showed that levocarnitine combined with Shenmai injection significantly im-proved the total effective rate(OR=5.04,95%CI 3.78~6.71,P<0.001),left ventricular ejection fraction(MD=6.10,95%CI 5.18~7.02,P<0.001),stroke volume(MD=10.64,95%CI 7.42~13.85,P<0.001),cardiac output(MD=0.85,95%CI 0.74~0.97,P<0.001),left ventricular fractional shortening(MD=5.27,95%CI 4.16~6.39,P<0.001),and significantly reduced left ventricular end-diastolic diameter(MD=-5.64,95%CI-7.31~-3.98,P<0.001)and left ventricular end-systolic diameter(MD=-5.08,95%CI-6.08~-4.09,P<0.001)than standard treatment.There were no significant differences in the adverse reaction rate be-tween groups(P=0.220).Conclusion:Current research evidence suggests that levocarnitine combined with Shen-mai injection had better efficacy on the heart failure caused by ischemic cardiomyopathy,with good safety.
9.Research on the physical anatomical structure of the Lieque(LU7)acupoint
Chunlin WANG ; Zhaoyu SHU ; Shuai ZHANG ; Quan HAN ; Peigang FANG ; Hengtao QI ; Tiezheng WANG ; Ziyu KANG ; Wenxu ZHANG ; Linjiang WANG ; Qiang WANG ; Likun DONG ; Tao WANG ; Zengtao WANG
Journal of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;48(7):992-999
Objective To investigate the anatomical structure and surface location of the Lieque(LU7)acupoint.Methods Firstly,the anatomical localization descriptions of the Lieque(LU7)acupoint from classical medical literature were reviewed and summarized.A total of 21 participants were recruited from Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University from January to March 2025.A Cartesian coordinate system was established over the Lieque(LU7)region on the right forearm.Following standardized manual pressure stimulation,the coordinates of the participant′s reported acupoint sensations were recorded.Based on surface pressure mapping result,10 participants were arbitrarily selected for acupuncture intervention.Upon elicitation of acupoint sensation,the ultrasound imaging was used for real-time visualization of anatomical spatial relationships between the needle tip and distal radial osseous landmarks.Five red latex-perfused adult upper limb specimens were selected for microdissection of the Lieque(LU7)regions pre-localized via ultrasonography,achieving definitive structural characterization of its anatomical strata.Another 10 participants were arbitrarily selected to find the physical structure of the Lieque(LU7)acupoint using ultrasound,and the similarities and differences of acupoint sensation responses were verified using acupuncture needle insertions into both the demarcated zone and peripheral tissues.Results The descriptions of the localization of the Lieque(LU7)acupoint in ancient books can be summarized as"one and a half cun above the wrist side"longitudinally,and"at the intersection head,between two tendons and two bones in the hollow"transversely.During surface pressure application,the sites of the participant′s elicited acupoint sensation were anatomically concentrated in the proximal depression adjacent to the radiopalmar ridge,specifically at the transitional interface between the extensor pollicis brevis tendon and scaphoid bone.During acupuncture-induced acupoint sensation,ultrasound imaging demonstrated that the location of the needle tip was located within the proximal depression adjacent to the radiopalmar ridge,accompanied by arterial hemodynamic perfusion signals into adjacent osseous interfaces.Microdissection findings revealed perforating branches of the radial artery traversing the cortical bone interface within the Lieque(LU7)acupoint region.Acupuncture stimulation at the proximal depression adjacent to the radiopalmar ridge elicited consistent acupoint sensations in all 10 participants,and the acupoint sensations differed from those of other surrounding tissues.Conclusion The anatomical structure of Lieque(LU7)acupoint is located within the proximal depression adjacent to the radiopalmar ridge,characterized by the presence of"hilus of bone"structure.
10.Research progress on effect of Helicobacter pylori on immune checkpoint inhibitors of gastric cancer
Matu LI ; Ya ZHENG ; Jinyu ZHAO ; Xiaochuang SHU ; Qiang LI ; Yuping WANG ; Yongning ZHOU
Chinese Journal of Immunology 2025;41(3):727-732
Gastric cancer is a malignant tumor of the digestive system with strong invasiveness and a high metastasis rate.Its morbidity and mortality rank among the top five in the world and the prognosis is closely related to the disease stage.Multidisciplinary comprehensive treatment based on systemic antitumor drugs is generally adopted in patients with advanced or metastatic gastric can-cer,but the prognosis is typically poor.With the in-depth research on the tumor microenvironment,the development of multi-omics technology,and the application of immunotherapy and neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy,the therapeutic effect of advanced gastric can-cer has been initially improved,and immunotherapy has become the most potential of the treatment strategies.Many studies have found that Helicobacter pylori(Hp)infection status is closely related to the efficacy of immunotherapy for gastric cancer,especially im-mune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs),but there is not clear whether it has advantages or disadvantages.This article reviews the current research on the efficacy of Hp on ICIs in advanced gastric cancer to provide ideas for further research on the interaction between Hp in-fection and tumor immunotherapy.


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