1.Differences in chemical components and quality analysis of Gardenia jasminoides before and after processing with ginger
Lihua TANG ; Yu WU ; Xuedi HUANG ; Xiaolian HU ; Yi TANG ; Zilong CHEN ; Xiaofan XIAO ; Xide YE
China Pharmacy 2026;37(2):168-173
OBJECTIVE To analyze the differences in chemical components of Gardenia jasminoides before and after processing with ginger, and to evaluate the quality differences among different producing areas. METHODS Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry was used to analyze the compositional differences of G. jasminoides before and after processing with ginger. The water content, total ash, and ethanol-soluble extract content of ginger- processed G. jasminoides were determined according to the 2020 edition of Chinese Pharmacopoeia. High performance liquid chromatography was adopted to determine the contents of genipin gentiobioside, geniposide, crocin Ⅰ and crocin Ⅱ in ginger- processed G. jasminoides. RESULTS A total of 49 chemical components were identified from raw G. jasminoides and ginger- processed G. jasminoides, including 14 flavonoids, 15 iridoids, 10 organic acids, 2 alkaloids and 8 other compounds. Among them, 42 components were detected in raw G. jasminoides, 28 in ginger-processed G. jasminoides, and 21 components were common to both. After processing with ginger, raw G. jasminoides lost 21 components (including iridoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and others), while 7 chemical components were added (including coumarins, organic acids, organic acid esters, and flavonoids). For the 15 batches of ginger-processed G. jasminoides, the water content ranged from 5.64% to 7.11%, total ash from 2.92% to 4.87%, and ethanol-soluble extract from 40.61% to 58.02%. The average contents of genipin gentiobioside, geniposide, crocin Ⅰ and crocin Ⅱ were 0.108 7, 0.542 2, 0.565 0, and 0.012 5 mg/g, respectively. CONCLUSIONS After processing with ginger, G. jasminoides loses 21 components, while 7 new components are added. Differences are observed in the water content, total ash, ethanol-soluble extract, and the contents of genipin gentiobioside, geniposide, crocin Ⅰ, and crocin Ⅱ of ginger-processed G. jasminoides from different producing areas. Notably, samples from Fujian exhibit high contents of genipin gentiobioside and ethanol-soluble extract, while samples from Jiangxi have a high content of crocin Ⅰ.
2.Enzyme-directed Immobilization Strategies for Biosensor Applications
Xing-Bao WANG ; Yao-Hong MA ; Yun-Long XUE ; Xiao-Zhen HUANG ; Yue SHAO ; Yi YU ; Bing-Lian WANG ; Qing-Ai LIU ; Li-He ZHANG ; Wei-Li GONG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(2):374-394
Immobilized enzyme-based enzyme electrode biosensors, characterized by high sensitivity and efficiency, strong specificity, and compact size, demonstrate broad application prospects in life science research, disease diagnosis and monitoring, etc. Immobilization of enzyme is a critical step in determining the performance (stability, sensitivity, and reproducibility) of the biosensors. Random immobilization (physical adsorption, covalent cross-linking, etc.) can easily bring about problems, such as decreased enzyme activity and relatively unstable immobilization. Whereas, directional immobilization utilizing amino acid residue mutation, affinity peptide fusion, or nucleotide-specific binding to restrict the orientation of the enzymes provides new possibilities to solve the problems caused by random immobilization. In this paper, the principles, advantages and disadvantages and the application progress of enzyme electrode biosensors of different directional immobilization strategies for enzyme molecular sensing elements by specific amino acids (lysine, histidine, cysteine, unnatural amino acid) with functional groups introduced based on site-specific mutation, affinity peptides (gold binding peptides, carbon binding peptides, carbohydrate binding domains) fused through genetic engineering, and specific binding between nucleotides and target enzymes (proteins) were reviewed, and the application fields, advantages and limitations of various immobilized enzyme interface characterization techniques were discussed, hoping to provide theoretical and technical guidance for the creation of high-performance enzyme sensing elements and the manufacture of enzyme electrode sensors.
3.Concept, design and clinical application of minimally invasive liver transplantation through laparoscopic combined upper midline incision
Shuhong YI ; Hui TANG ; Kaining ZENG ; Xiao FENG ; Binsheng FU ; Qing YANG ; Jia YAO ; Yang YANG ; Guihua CHEN
Organ Transplantation 2025;16(1):67-73
Objective To explore the technical process and clinical application of laparoscopic combined upper midline incision minimally invasive liver transplantation. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 30 cases of laparoscopic combined upper midline incision minimally invasive liver transplantation. The cases were divided into cirrhosis group (15 cases) and liver failure group (15 cases) based on the primary disease. The surgical and postoperative conditions of the two groups were compared. Results All patients successfully underwent laparoscopic "clockwise" liver resection, with no cases of passive conversion to open surgery or intolerance to pneumoperitoneum. In 6 cases, the right lobe was relatively large, and the right hepatic ligaments could not be completely mobilized. One case required an additional reverse "L" incision during open surgery. All patients successfully completed the liver transplantation, with no major intraoperative bleeding, cardiovascular events, or other occurrences in the 30 patients. The model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score in the cirrhosis group was lower than that in the liver failure group (P<0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, surgical time, blood loss, anhepatic phase, or cold ischemia time (all P>0.05). During the perioperative period, there was 1 case of hepatic artery embolism, 1 case of portal vein anastomotic stenosis, no complications of hepatic vein and inferior vena cava, and 3 cases of biliary anastomotic stenosis, all of which occurred in the liver failure group. Conclusions In strictly selected cases, the minimally invasive liver transplantation technique combining laparoscopic hepatectomy with upper midline incision for graft implantation has the advantages of smaller incisions, less bleeding, relatively easier operation, and faster postoperative recovery, which is worthy of clinical promotion and application.
4.Construction of a nomogram model for predicting risk of spread through air space in sub-centimeter non-small cell lung cancer
Xiao WANG ; Yao ZHANG ; Kangle ZHU ; Yi ZHAO ; Jingwei SHI ; Qianqian XU ; Zhengcheng LIU
Chinese Journal of Clinical Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2025;32(03):345-352
Objective To investigate the correlation between spread through air space (STAS) of sub-centimeter non-small cell lung cancer and clinical characteristics and radiological features, constructing a nomogram risk prediction model for STAS to provide a reference for the preoperative planning of sub-centimeter non-small cell lung cancer patients. Methods The data of patients with sub-centimeter non-small cell lung cancer who underwent surgical treatment in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 2022 to October 2023 were retrospectively collected. According to the pathological diagnosis of whether the tumor was accompanied with STAS, they were divided into a STAS positive group and a STAS negative group. The clinical and radiological data of the two groups were collected for univariate logistic regression analysis, and the variables with statistical differences were included in the multivariate analysis. Finally, independent risk factors for STAS were screened out and a nomogram model was constructed. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated based on the Youden index, and area under the curve (AUC), calibration plots and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the performance of the model. Results A total of 112 patients were collected, which included 17 patients in the STAS positive group, consisting of 11 males and 6 females, with a mean age of (59.0±10.3) years. The STAS negative group included 95 patients, with 30 males and 65 females, and a mean age of (56.8±10.3) years. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that male, anti-GAGE7 antibody positive, mean CT value and spiculation were associated with the occurrence of STAS (P<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that associations between STAS and male (OR=5.974, 95%CI 1.495 to 23.872), anti-GAGE7 antibody positive (OR=11.760, 95%CI 1.619 to 85.408) and mean CT value (OR=1.008, 95%CI 1.004 to 1.013) were still significant (P<0.05), while the association between STAS and spiculation was not significant anymore (P=0.438). Based on the above three independent predictors, a nomogram model of STAS in sub-centimeter non-small cell lung cancer was constructed. The AUC value of the model was 0.890, the sensitivity was 76.5%, and the specificity was 91.6%. The calibration curve was well fitted, suggesting that the model had a good prediction efficiency for STAS. The DCA plot showed that the model had a good clinically utility. Conclusion Male, anti-GAGE7 antibody positive and mean CT value are independent predictors of STAS positivity of sub-centimeter non-small cell lung cancer, and the nomogram model established in this study has a good predictive value and provides reference for preoperative planning of patients.
5.Five new triterpenoid saponins from the kernels of Momordica cochinchinensis
Ru DING ; Jia-qi WANG ; Yi-yang LUO ; Yong-long HAN ; Xiao-bo LI ; Meng-yue WANG
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2025;60(2):442-448
Five saponins were isolated from the kernels of
6.Isoliquiritigenin alleviates abnormal endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by type 2 diabetes mellitus
Kai-yi LAI ; Wen-wen DING ; Jia-yu ZHANG ; Xiao-xue YANG ; Wen-bo GAO ; Yao XIAO ; Ying LIU
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2025;60(1):130-140
Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a chalcone compound isolated from licorice, known for its anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties. Our previous study has demonstrated that ISL effectively lowers blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice and improves disturbances in glucolipid and energy metabolism induced by T2DM. This study aims to further investigate the effects of ISL on alleviating abnormal endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) caused by T2DM and to elucidate its molecular mechanisms.
7.Terms Related to The Study of Biomacromolecular Condensates
Ke RUAN ; Xiao-Feng FANG ; Dan LI ; Pi-Long LI ; Yi LIN ; Zheng WANG ; Yun-Yu SHI ; Ming-Jie ZHANG ; Hong ZHANG ; Cong LIU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(4):1027-1035
Biomolecular condensates are formed through phase separation of biomacromolecules such as proteins and RNAs. These condensates exhibit liquid-like properties that can futher transition into more stable material states. They form complex internal structures via multivalent weak interactions, enabling precise spatiotemporal regulations. However, the use of inconsistent and non-standardized terminology has become increasingly problematic, hindering academic exchange and the dissemination of scientific knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss the terminology related to biomolecular condensates in order to clarify concepts, promote interdisciplinary cooperation, enhance research efficiency, and support the healthy development of this field.
8.Application of middle hepatic vein splitting and reconstruction technique in split liver transplantation from low-age donor livers
Hui TANG ; Binsheng FU ; Qing YANG ; Jia YAO ; Kaining ZENG ; Xiao FENG ; Shuhong YI ; Yang YANG
Organ Transplantation 2025;16(3):453-459
Objective To explore the feasibility and clinical experience of the middle hepatic vein splitting-reconstruction technique in split liver transplantation from low-age donor livers. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the cases of two low-age donor livers that underwent middle hepatic vein splitting-reconstruction, which were transplanted into four child recipients at the Liver Transplantation Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2017 to July 2023. The surgical and postoperative conditions were summarized and analyzed. Results Donor 1 was a 6-year-old and 4-month-old girl with a body weight of 21 kg, and the obtained donor liver weighed 496 g. After splitting, the left and right liver weights were 201 g and 280 g, and transplanted into a 9-month-old boy weighing 6.5 kg and a 9-month-old boy weighing 7.5 kg, respectively. The graft to recipient weight ratio (GRWR) was 3.09% and 3.73%, respectively. Donor 2 was a 5-year-old and 8-month-old boy with a body weight of 19 kg, and the donor liver weighed 673 g. After splitting, the left and right liver weights were 230 g and 400 g, and transplanted into a 13-month-old girl weighing 9.5 kg and a 15-month-old boy weighing 12 kg. The GRWR was 2.42% and 3.33%, respectively. Both donor livers were split ex vivo, with the middle hepatic vein being completely split in the middle and reconstructed using allogeneic iliac vein and iliac artery vascular patches. According to GRWR, none of the 4 transplant livers were reduced in volume. Among the 4 recipients, one died due to postoperative portal vein thrombosis and non-function of the transplant liver, while the other three cases recovered smoothly without early or late complications. Regular follow-up was conducted until July 31, 2023, and liver function recovered well. Conclusions Under the premise of detailed assessment of the donor liver and meticulous intraoperative operation, as well as matching with suitable child recipients, low-age donor livers may be selected for splitting. The complete splitting and reconstruction of the middle hepatic vein in the middle may effectively ensure the adequate venous return of the left and right liver and provide sufficient functional liver volume.
9.Role of Peripheral 5-hydroxytryptamine in Toll-like Receptor 4-mediated Diabetes Mellitus Type 2
Yi-Ying ZHANG ; Ping ZHANG ; Bo YANG ; Xiao-Tong CHANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1070-1080
In recent years, the prevalence of diabetes has continued to rise, with diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) being the most common form. T2DM is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and disruptions in insulin metabolism. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is a key pattern recognition receptor that, upon activation, upregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines via the nuclear factor κB (NF‑κB) pathway, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of T2DM. Peripheral 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), primarily synthesized by enterochromaffin (EC) cells in the gut, interacts with 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors (5-HTRs) in key insulin-target tissues, including the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle. This interaction influences hepatic gluconeogenesis, fat mobilization, and the browning of white adipose tissue. Elevated peripheral 5-HT levels may disrupt glucose and lipid metabolism, thereby contributing to the onset and progression of T2DM. Within mitochondria, 5-HT undergoes degradation and inactivation through the enzymatic action of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excessive ROS production and accumulation can induce oxidative stress, which may further contribute to the pathogenesis of T2DM. Platelets serve as the primary reservoir for5-HT in the bloodstream. The activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway on the platelet surface, coupled with reduced expression of the 5-HT transporter on the cell membrane, leads to elevated serum 5-HT levels, potentially accelerating the progression of T2DM. Therefore, inhibition of TLR4 and reduction of peripheral 5-HT levels could represent promising therapeutic strategies for T2DM. This review explores the synthesis, transport, and metabolism of peripheral 5-HT, as well as its role in TLR4-mediated T2DM, with the aim of providing novel insights into the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of T2DM.
10.The Mechanism of Blue Light in Inactivating Microorganisms and Its Applications in The Food and Medical Fields
Ruo-Hong BI ; Rong-Qian WU ; Yi LÜ ; Xiao-Fei LIU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1219-1228
Blue light inactivation technology, particularly at the 405 nm wavelength, has demonstrated distinct and multifaceted mechanisms of action against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, offering a promising alternative to conventional antibiotic therapies. For Gram-positive pathogens such as Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), the bactericidal effects are primarily mediated by endogenous porphyrins (e.g., protoporphyrin III, coproporphyrin III, and uroporphyrin III), which exhibit strong absorption peaks between 400-430 nm. Upon irradiation, these porphyrins are photoexcited to generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), including singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radicals, and superoxide anions, which collectively induce oxidative damage to cellular components. Early studies by Endarko et al. revealed that (405±5) nm blue light at 185 J/cm² effectively inactivated L. monocytogenes without exogenous photosensitizers, supporting the hypothesis of intrinsic photosensitizer involvement. Subsequent work by Masson-Meyers et al. demonstrated that 405 nm light at 121 J/cm² suppressed MRSA growth by activating endogenous porphyrins, leading to ROS accumulation. Kim et al. further elucidated that ROS generated under 405 nm irradiation directly interact with unsaturated fatty acids in bacterial membranes, initiating lipid peroxidation. This process disrupts membrane fluidity, compromises structural integrity, and impairs membrane-bound proteins, ultimately causing cell death. In contrast, Gram-negative bacteria such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii exhibit more complex inactivation pathways. While endogenous porphyrins remain central to ROS generation, studies reveal additional photodynamic contributors, including flavins (e.g., riboflavin) and bacterial pigments. For instance, H. pylori naturally accumulates protoporphyrin and coproporphyrin mixtures, enabling efficient 405 nm light-mediated inactivation without antibiotic resistance concerns. Kim et al. demonstrated that 405 nm light at 288 J/cm² inactivates Salmonella by inducing genomic DNA oxidation (e.g., 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine formation) and disrupting membrane functions, particularly efflux pumps and glucose uptake systems. Huang et al. highlighted the enhanced efficacy of pulsed 405 nm light over continuous irradiation for E. coli, attributing this to increased membrane damage and optimized ROS generation through frequency-dependent photodynamic effects. Environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and osmotic stress further modulate susceptibility, sublethal stress conditions (e.g., high salinity or acidic environments) weaken bacterial membranes, rendering cells more vulnerable to subsequent ROS-mediated damage. The 405 nm blue light inactivates drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa through endogenous porphyrins, pyocyanin, and pyoverdine, with the inactivation efficacy influenced by bacterial growth phase and culture medium composition. Intriguingly, repeated 405 nm exposure (20 cycles) failed to induce resistance in A. baumannii, with transient tolerance linked to transient overexpression of antioxidant enzymes (e.g., superoxide dismutase) or stress-response genes (e.g., oxyR). For Gram-positive bacteria, porphyrin abundance dictates sensitivity, whereas in Gram-negative species, membrane architecture and accessory pigments modulate outcomes. Critically, ROS-mediated damage is nonspecific, targeting DNA, proteins, and lipids simultaneously, thereby minimizing resistance evolution. The 405 nm blue light technology, as a non-chemical sterilization method, shows promise in medical and food industries. It enhances infection control through photodynamic therapy and disinfection, synergizing with red light for anti-inflammatory treatments (e.g., acne). In food processing, it effectively inactivates pathogens (e.g., E. coli, S. aureus) without altering food quality. Despite efficacy against multidrug-resistant A. baumannii, challenges include device standardization, limited penetration in complex materials, and optimization of photosensitizers/light parameters. Interdisciplinary research is needed to address these limitations and scale applications in healthcare, food safety, and environmental decontamination.

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail