1.TGF-β1-engineered Biomimetic Platelet Nanoparticles for Targeted Therapy of Ischemic Stroke
Li-Qi CHEN ; Tian-Fang KANG ; Guo-Jun HUANG ; Ting YIN ; Ai-Qing MA ; Lin-Tao CAI ; Hong PAN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):697-710
ObjectivePost-ischemic acute inflammation and the subsequent persistent dysregulation of the immune microenvironment represent major pathological drivers that aggravate neuronal injury and severely restrict functional recovery following ischemic stroke. Although current reperfusion therapies partially restore blood flow, they fail to effectively modulate the secondary inflammatory cascade and oxidative stress, which remain critical barriers to neurological restoration. To address this challenge, this study aimed to engineer and systematically evaluate a biomimetic nanosystem composed of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-loaded platelet membrane-camouflaged lipid nanoparticles (PLP). This nanosystem was designed to achieve dual lesion-targeted delivery and immune microenvironment remodeling. By verifying its spatiotemporal accumulation, anti-inflammatory activity, and neuroprotective efficacy, we sought to establish an integrated therapeutic strategy that simultaneously enables lesion targeting, immune regulation, and functional recovery after ischemic injury. MethodsThe physicochemical properties of PLP, including hydrodynamic particle size, zeta potential, structural stability, and morphology, were characterized using dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. The preservation of platelet membrane-derived adhesion and immunoregulatory proteins was confirmed by SDS-PAGE through comparative analysis of protein band profiles between PLP and native platelet membranes. The in vitro biological activities of PLP were evaluated using two complementary cellular models. LPS-induced M1-polarized RAW264.7 macrophages were employed to assess inflammatory modulation, while oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R)-induced BV2 microglial cells and SH-SY5Y neuronal cells were utilized to investigate neuroinflammatory regulation and neuronal protection. For in vivo validation, a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) mouse model was established to mimic ischemia-reperfusion injury. The spatiotemporal biodistribution and lesion-targeting capability of the PLP were monitored through live fluorescence imaging. Therapeutic efficacy was comprehensively evaluated by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunofluorescence analysis, body weight monitoring, and neurological severity score (NSS) assessment. ResultsPLP nanoparticles displayed a uniform spherical morphology, nanoscale particle size distribution, and stable negative surface charge, indicating favorable colloidal stability and circulation potential. SDS-PAGE results confirmed the effective retention of key platelet membrane proteins associated with endothelial adhesion, immune evasion, and inflammatory regulation, demonstrating the successful biomimetic construction. Optimal therapeutic concentrations were determined in OGD/R-induced BV2 cells, where PLP exhibited excellent cytocompatibility and anti-inflammatory activity.In vitro experiments demonstrated that PLP significantly inhibited the polarization of RAW264.7 macrophages toward the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype and markedly reduced neuronal apoptosis under ischemia-reperfusion conditions. In vivo fluorescence imaging revealed that PLP rapidly accumulated in the ischemic brain hemisphere and maintained prolonged retention for up to 7 d, suggesting enhanced lesion-specific targeting and sustained drug release. Compared with control group, PLP treatment significantly reduced cerebral infarct volume, attenuated reactive astrogliosis, improved weight recovery, and accelerated neurological functional restoration, as reflected by significantly improved NSS scores. ConclusionThis study establishes a multifunctional biomimetic nanoplatform that integrates platelet membrane-mediated active targeting with the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and neuroprotective properties of TGF-β1. The PLP system enables rapid lesion homing and long-term retention while synergistically regulating the post-stroke inflammatory microenvironment by suppressing pro-inflammatory immune activation, reducing neuronal apoptosis, and limiting excessive astrocyte reactivity. Importantly, this study proposes a conceptually therapeutic paradigm that combines targeted delivery with immune microenvironment remodeling to achieve comprehensive neurovascular protection. These findings provide strong experimental evidence supporting the translational potential of biomimetic nanotherapeutics as next-generation precision interventions for ischemic stroke.
2.Data analysis of resolution discrepancies in minipool nucleic acid testing: A 2024 national study of Chinese blood stations
Ying YAN ; Qing HE ; Wei ZHENG ; Jie MA ; Le CHANG ; Huimin JI ; Huizhen SUN ; Lunan WANG
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2026;39(4):423-429
Objective: To investigate the incidence, characteristics, and influencing factors of resolution discrepancies within the minipool (MP) testing model across Chinese blood station laboratories in 2024. Methods: A nationwide, multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted, including 334 blood station laboratories that reported nucleic acid reactive data among enzyme immunoassay non-reactive samples. Of these, 296 laboratories adopted the pool resolution model, with a total of 12 536 273 samples tested. Systematic analysis was performed on resolution data, focusing on the MP-NAT reactivity rate, the pool resolution concordance rate, and the resolution discrepancy rate. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on reagent types, viral targets, and Ct values. Potential causes were further explored through laboratory surveys and re-examination of raw amplification curves. Results: In 2024, the national average MP-NAT reactivity rate was 0.15%. The overall pool resolution concordance rate was 57.86%, which showed a gradual decline as Ct values increased across all reagents. The national average resolution discrepancy rate was 0.081‱(102/12 536 273), with 17.91%(53/296) of laboratories reporting at least one discrepancy. Nine reagent types were associated with these events, exhibiting reagent-specific patterns. For Reagent A2, the predominant discrepancy was HBV reactive pools resolving as HIV (36.36%); for Reagent D1, HBV pools frequently resolved as HCV (38.89%); and for Reagent E, the most common pattern was HIV pools resolving as HBV (48.00%). These resolution discrepancies were strongly associated with high Ct values: the median pool Ct for HBV exceeded 38, while those for HCV and HIV both exceeded 40. Investigations across 16 laboratories revealed that most discrepant samples exhibited “tailing” amplification curves, with some cases linked to cross-contamination or reagent batch-specific issues. Conclusion: While the incidence of resolution discrepancies in the MP-NAT model remains low in China, variations exist across different reagents and laboratories. These discrepancies are closely associated with low viral load, reagent performance, and laboratory operational practices.
3.Study on the effect and mechanism of processed Oxytropis falcata in improving renal fibrosis in rats
Qing ZHANG ; Xinhuan MA ; Mingjing YANG ; Zhiwei XU ; Wenjing WANG ; Hui SONG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(9):1167-1172
OBJECTIVE To investigate the improvement effect and mechanism of processed Oxytropis falcata on renal fibrosis (RF) in rats. METHODS RF model was induced by adenine. After modeling, the rats were divided into the model group, positive control group (colchicine, 0.45 mg/kg), and processed O. falcata low-, medium- and high-dose groups (0.5, 1, 2 g/kg), respectively. Additionally, a blank group without modeling was set up, with 8 rats in each group. The positive control group and the various dosage groups of processed O. falcata were given the corresponding medicinal solutions intragastrically, while the blank group and model group were given equal volume of normal saline intragastrically, once daily for 28 consecutive days. The appearance and histopathological morphology of the rats’ kidneys were observed. Serum levels of renal function indexes [bl ood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) ] and inflammatory factors [interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) ] in rats were detected. Protein expressions of fibronectin (FN), α -smooth muscle actin ( α -SMA) and collagen type Ⅰ (Col-Ⅰ) in renal tissue of rats were determined. mRNA expressions of transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β 1 ), Smad3 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in renal tissues were measured. Protein expression of TGF-β 1 and phosphorylation levels of Smad3 and ERK1/2 in renal tissues were detected. RESULTS Compared with the blank group, the rats in the model group exhibited enlarged kidneys with pale color, rough and uneven surface. There was a significant infiltration of inflammatory cells and vacuolated cells in the renal tubules, along with marked proliferation of collagen fibers. Serum levels of BUN, Cr, IL-6 and TNF-α, protein expressions of α -SMA, Col-Ⅰ and FN in renal tissues, mRNA expressions of TGF-β 1 , Smad3, ERK1 and ERK2 and protein expression of TGF-β 1 as well as phosphorylation levels of Smad3 and ERK1/2 in renal tissues were increased significantly ( P <0.05). Compared with the model group, renal pathological changes of rats were alleviated in processed O. falcata groups, with reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells and proliferation of collagen fibers. The levels of the aforementioned quantitative indicators were all significantly reversed ( P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS Processed O. falcata can improve renal function in RF rats, alleviate inflammatory responses, and reduce abnormal collagen fiber deposition. Its mechanism of action may be related to the inhibition of the activity of the TGF-β 1 /Smad signaling pathway.
4.Current Status,Strategies and Prospects of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnosis and Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Yandong WEN ; Zhi YANG ; Shaogang HUANG ; Zhongyu LI ; Xiangxue MA ; Qing XU ; Liqing DU ; Bochao YUAN ; Yibing TIAN ; Wentong GE ; Xiaofan ZHAO ; Chang LIU ; Xudong TANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(4):404-409
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder characterized primarily by abdominal pain and altered defecation habits. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has made progress in multiple aspects of IBS research and treatment, including syndrome distribution, development of TCM formulas, clinical efficacy evaluation, external therapies, and psychosocial regulation. However, it still faces challenges such as over-reliance on symptomatic manifestations rather than biomarkers for diagnostic criteria, and the lack of high-quality evidence-based data supporting the efficacy of TCM formulas in treating IBS. This paper proposed that TCM diagnosis and treatment of IBS should adhere to the strategy of integrating the holistic concept with syndrome differentiation and treatment, combining TCM external therapies such as acupuncture, moxibustion and acupoint application), and emphasizing individualized diagnosis and treatment for psychosomatic abnormalities. Future research should integrate multi-omics technologies, artificial intelligence and other methods to deepen the understanding of the pathogenesis of IBS and the mechanisms of TCM formulas, so as to promote the standardization and internationalization of TCM in the diagnosis and treatment of IBS.
5.Ancient and Modern Application and Key Information Analysis of Classic Formula Erchentang
Qing TANG ; Lyuyuan LIANG ; Jialei CAO ; Lan LIU ; Hejia WAN ; Chengxin LUO ; Bingqi WEI ; Yamin KONG ; Bingxiang MA ; Wenli SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(1):262-270
Erchentang is a classic formula widely used by medical practitioners throughout history. In this paper,ancient and modern literature of Erchentang were collected, and bibliometrics was employed to analyze its historic evolution,prescription meaning,herbs origin, processing method,preparation methods, and clinical application. A total of 84 pieces of data were collected, and 58 pieces of data involving 53 ancient medical Chinese books were screened, sorted, and processed. Combined with research of modern scholars,the research has found that the Erchentang originated from the Taiping Huimin Huiye Shijie Fang compiled by the Imperial Medical Bureau of the Song Dynasty. The basic information about the origin of the drugs is quite clear. Pinelliae rhizoma in the formula is the dried tuber of Pinellia ternata. Citri exocarpium rubrum is the dried mature peel of Citrus reticulata and its cultivated varieties, with the inner white membrane removed. Poria is the whitest dry sclerotia of Poria cocos; Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma is the dried root and rhizome of the Glycyrrhiza uralensis. The dosage is 5.70 g Pinelliae rhizome and Citri exocarpium rubrum, 3.43 g Poria, and 1.69 g Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma praeparata cum melle. During the decoction process, the above-mentioned herbs should be chopped, with 300 mL water, 7 g ginger in thick slices, and 2 g Mume fructus added, and it was then simmered together to 180 mL. After removing the medicinal residue, it can be taken warmly. Erchentang has the effect of drying dampness and resolving phlegm, regulating Qi and harmonizing the middle. It can be used in treating the syndrome of phlegm and dampness,as well as symptoms such as frequent cough,white phlegm,fullness in chest and diaphragm,nausea and vomiting,limb drowsiness,anorexia,dizziness,palpitations,white and greasy tongue coating, and slippery pulse. The above results provide reference for future research and development of Erchentang.
6.Determine antimicrobial preservatives thimerosal in eye drops by HPLC
Jin GAO ; Dan HU ; Zihui MA ; Junwei XU ; Qing GAO ; Xiaoxu HONG
Journal of Pharmaceutical Practice and Service 2025;43(6):293-297
Objective To establish a HPLC method for determining thimerosal compounds in eye drops. Methods A gradient HPLC system was used in the quantitative analysis of thimerosal compounds on Shiseido MGII C18 column (4.6 mm×250 mm,5 μm), using 1% triethylamine solution (pH adjusted to 3.0 with phosphate) as mobile phase A, the methanol as mobile phase B, gradient elution, The column temperature was 40 ℃, the detection wavelength was 222 nm, the flow rate was 1 ml/min and the injection volume was 20 µl. Results The established method had good linearity within the concentration range of 4.3-216.7 μg/ml (r>0.999) for thimerosal, with average recoveries was 102.1%, RSD2.7%. Conclusion This method was simple, accurate and highly specific, and could be used for determination of thimerosal compound in eye drops.
7.The Mechanism of Exercise Regulating Intestinal Flora in The Prevention and Treatment of Depression
Lei-Zi MIN ; Jing-Tong WANG ; Qing-Yuan WANG ; Yi-Cong CUI ; Rui WANG ; Xin-Dong MA
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(6):1418-1434
Depression, a prevalent mental disorder with significant socioeconomic burdens, underscores the urgent need for safe and effective non-pharmacological interventions. Recent advances in microbiome research have revealed the pivotal role of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of depression. Concurrently, exercise, as a cost-effective and accessible intervention, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms. This comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence on the interplay among exercise, gut microbiota modulation, and depression, elucidating the mechanistic pathways through which exercise ameliorates depressive symptoms via the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis. Depression is characterized by gut microbiota alterations, including reduced alpha and beta diversity, depletion of beneficial taxa (e.g., Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Coprococcus), and overgrowth of pro-inflammatory and pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Morganella, Klebsiella, and Enterobacteriaceae). Metagenomic analyses reveal disrupted metabolic functions in depressive patients, such as diminished synthesis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), impaired tryptophan metabolism, and dysregulated bile acid conversion. For instance, Bifidobacterium longum deficiency correlates with reduced synthesis of neuroactive metabolites like homovanillic acid, while decreased Coprococcus abundance limits butyrate production, exacerbating neuroinflammation. Furthermore, elevated levels of indole derivatives from Clostridium species inhibit serotonin (5-HT) synthesis, contributing to depressive phenotypes. These dysbiotic profiles disrupt the MGB axis, triggering systemic inflammation, neurotransmitter imbalances, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity. Exercise exerts profound effects on gut microbiota composition, diversity, and metabolic activity. Longitudinal studies demonstrate that sustained aerobic exercise increases alpha diversity, enriches SCFA-producing genera (e.g., Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Roseburia, and Akkermansia), and suppresses pathobionts (e.g., Desulfovibrio and Streptococcus). For example, a meta-analysis of 25 trials involving 1 044 participants confirmed that exercise enhances microbial richness and restores the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, a biomarker of metabolic health. Notably, endurance training promotes Veillonella proliferation, which converts lactate into propionate, enhancing energy metabolism and delaying fatigue. Exercise also strengthens intestinal barrier integrity by upregulating tight junction proteins (e.g., ZO-1, occludin), thereby reducing lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation and systemic inflammation. However, excessive exercise may paradoxically diminish microbial diversity and exacerbate intestinal permeability, highlighting the importance of moderate intensity and duration. Exercise ameliorates depressive symptoms through multifaceted interactions with the gut microbiota, primarily via 4 interconnected pathways. First, exercise mitigates neuroinflammation by elevating anti-inflammatory SCFAs such as butyrate, which suppresses NF-κB signaling to attenuate microglial activation and oxidative stress in the hippocampus. Animal studies demonstrate that voluntary wheel running reduces hippocampal TNF‑α and IL-17 levels in stress-induced depression models, while fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from exercised mice reverses depressive behaviors by modulating the TLR4/NF‑κB pathway. Second, exercise regulates neurotransmitter dynamics by enriching GABA-producing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, thereby counteracting neuronal hyperexcitability. Aerobic exercise also enhances the abundance of Lactobacillus plantarum and Streptococcus thermophilus, which facilitate 5-HT and dopamine synthesis. Clinical trials reveal that 12 weeks of moderate exercise increases fecal Coprococcus and Blautia abundance, correlating with improved 5-HT bioavailability and reduced depression scores. Third, exercise normalizes HPA axis hyperactivity by reducing cortisol levels and restoring glucocorticoid receptor sensitivity. In rodent models, chronic stress-induced corticosterone elevation is reversed by probiotic supplementation (e.g., Lactobacillus), which enhances endocannabinoid signaling and hippocampal neurogenesis. Furthermore, exercise upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) via microbial metabolites like butyrate, promoting histone acetylation and synaptic plasticity. FMT experiments confirm that exercise-induced microbiota elevates prefrontal BDNF expression, reversing stress-induced neuronal atrophy. Fourth, exercise reshapes microbial metabolic crosstalk, diverting tryptophan metabolism toward 5-HT synthesis instead of neurotoxic kynurenine derivatives. Butyrate inhibits indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), a key enzyme in the kynurenine pathway linked to depression. Concurrently, exercise-induced Akkermansia enrichment enhances mucin production, fortifies the gut barrier, and reduces LPS-driven neuroinflammation. Collectively, these mechanisms underscore exercise as a potent modulator of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, offering a holistic approach to alleviating depression through microbial and neurophysiological synergy. Current evidence supports exercise as a potent adjunct therapy for depression, with personalized regimens (e.g., aerobic, resistance, or yoga) tailored to individual microbiota profiles. However, challenges remain in optimizing exercise prescriptions (intensity, duration, and type) and integrating them with probiotics, prebiotics, or FMT for synergistic effects. Future research should prioritize large-scale randomized controlled trials to validate causality, multi-omics approaches to decipher MGB axis dynamics, and mechanistic studies exploring microbial metabolites as therapeutic targets. The authors advocate for a paradigm shift toward microbiota-centric interventions, emphasizing the bidirectional relationship between physical activity and gut ecosystem resilience in mental health management. In conclusion, this review underscores exercise as a multifaceted modulator of the gut-brain axis, offering novel insights into non-pharmacological strategies for depression. By bridging microbial ecology, neuroimmunology, and exercise physiology, this work lays a foundation for precision medicine approaches targeting the gut microbiota to alleviate depressive disorders.
8.Mechanism of action of immune molecules and related immune cells in liver failure
Qi LUO ; Biyu ZENG ; Rong ZHANG ; Guojuan MA ; Lei QING ; Liangjiang HUANG ; Lei FU ; Chun YAO
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2025;41(6):1213-1219
Liver failure (LF) is a severe clinical syndrome characterized by severe impairment or decompensation of liver function. At present, the key role of immune molecules in the pathogenesis of LF has been well established. These molecules not only directly participate in the pathological process of LF, but also influence the course of LF by modulating the behavior of immune cells. In addition, immune molecules can be used as potential biomarkers for evaluating the prognosis of LF. This article summarizes the role of immune molecules in LF and explores the therapeutic strategies based on these immune molecules, in order to provide new directions for the diagnosis and treatment of LF.
9.Mediating effect of activities of daily living between pain and depressive symptoms in Chinese elderly
Shan JIANG ; Huaiju GE ; Wenyu SU ; Shihong DONG ; Weimin GUAN ; Qing YU ; Huiyu JIA ; Wenjing CHANG ; Jinglei ZHANG ; Kang ZHANG ; Guifeng MA ; Wentao WEI
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2025;36(4):12-16
Objective To explore the mediating role of activities of daily living (ADL) in pain and depressive symptoms in the elderly in China. Methods Utilizing the data from 2020 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, 4403 Chinese elderly individuals aged ≥ 60 years old were selected as the research subjects. Depression Scale (CES-D 10) of the Center for Epidemiological Survey and ADL scale were used in the study. The PROCESS4.1 macro was used to test the mediating effect of daily living activities between pain and depressive symptoms, and the Bootstrap method was applied for verification of the mediating variables. Results A total of 2368 cases of depressive symptoms were detected in the elderly in China, with a detection rate of 53.78%. Pain was positively correlated with depressive symptoms (r=0.27, P<0.01), and activities of daily living were negatively correlated with pain and depressive symptoms (r=-0.27, -0.337, P<0.01). The results showed that the total effect value of pain on depressive symptoms was 0.33, the direct effect value was 0.24, and the mediating effect value of daily living activities was 0.09, accounting for 27.27%. Conclusion Pain and activities of daily living are important factors influencing depressive symptoms in the elderly, and activities of daily living play a partial mediating role in the relationship between pain and depressive symptoms in the elderly.
10.Textual Research and Ancient and Modern Application of Classical Prescription Sinisan
Lyuyuan LIANG ; Qing TANG ; Jialei CAO ; Wenxi WEI ; Yuxin ZHANG ; Jinyu CHEN ; Hejia WAN ; Chen CHEN ; Ruiting SU ; Bingqi WEI ; Shen'ao DING ; Bingxiang MA ; Wenli SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(18):182-193
Sinisan is a classical prescription developed and applied by ancient medical experts and it is first recorded in the Treatise on Cold Damage written by ZHANG Zhongjing in the Eastern Han Dynasty. Later physicians have modified this prescription based on this original one. The bibliometrics methods were used to analyze the key information and research trend of Sinisan. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 69 pieces of effective data were extracted, involving 67 ancient traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) books. The results showed that the name, composition, and decocting methods of Sinisan in later generations were inherited from the original record in the Treatise on Cold Damage. The original plants of medicinal materials used in Sinisan are basically clear. We recommend Bupleuri Radix as the dried root of Bupleurem scorzonerifolium, Paeoniae Radix Alba as the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora, Aurantii Fructus as the dried fruit of Citrus aurantium, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma as the dry root and rhizome of Glycyrrhiza uralensis. Raw materials of Bupleuri Radix and Paeoniae Radix Alba, Aurantii Fructus stir-fried with bran, and stir-fried Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma should be used for preparation of Sinisan. According to measurement system in the Han Dynasty, a bag of Sinisan is composed of 1.25 g Bupleuri Radix, 1.25 g Paeoniae Radix Alba, 1.25 g Aurantii Fructus, and 1.25 g Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma. The materials should be grounded into coarse powder and taken with a proper amount of rice soup, 3 times a day. Sinisan has the effects of regulating qi movement and harmonizing the liver and spleen. It can be used for treating reversal cold in limbs and cold damage. In modern clinical practice, Sinisan can be used to treat chronic gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and dyspepsia. The above research results provide scientific reference for the future research and development of Sinisan.


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