This article adopts Professor CHEN Chaozu′s " sanjiao composed by membrane-striae" theory as its foundation to explore the relationship between irritable bowel syndrome and functional/structural abnormalities of the membrane-striae. Sanjiao encompasses both the tangible membrane and the intangible striae. These striae permeate the entire body，and their pathological changes comprehensively reflect qi，body fluids，and fasciae. Based on the physiological function of the membrane-striae in regulating qi and fluids，the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a disharmony of membrane-striae and an imbalance of the qi-fluid interactions. In the early stage，external pathogens，emotional factors，or dietary stimuli often cause membrane-striae constriction and disordered qi-fluid circulation. In the middle stage，stagnant fluids gradually transform into phlegm retention，leading to membrane-striae obstruction. In the late stage，deficiency of vital qi becomes predominant，manifesting as laxity of membrane-striae with impaired control or weakened conduction. The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome should adopt " unblocking" as the guiding principle. In the early stage，therapy should focus on eliminating pathogenic factors and soothing membrane-striae to promptly restore qi-fluid circulation，thereby attaining unblocking through spasm relief. In the middle stage，treatment should focus on resolving tangible obstructions in membrane-striae，achieving unblocking via dredging. In the late stage，the emphasis should shift to reinforcing healthy qi，particularly by strengthening spleen-kidney yang qi，and achieving unblocking through supplementation. Concurrently，throughout the entire treatment process，the regulation of mental state and easing of emotional tension should be integrated to alleviate patient′s anxiety，achieving the goal of holistic treatment of both body and mind.

Objective: To systematically analyze the revisions content and technological development trends of microbiological standards in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (ChP) 2025 Edition, and explore its novel requirements in risk-based pharmaceutical product lifecycle management.
Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted on 26 microbiological-related standards to summarize the revision directions and scientific implications from perspectives including the revision overview, international harmonization of microbiological standards, risk-based quality management system, and novel tools and methods with Chinese characteristics.
Results: The ChP 2025 edition demonstrates three prominent features in microbiological-related standards: enhanced international harmonization, introduced emerging molecular biological technologies, and established a risk-based microbiological quality control system.
Conclusion: The new edition of the Pharmacopoeia has systematically constructed a microbiological standard system, which significantly improves the scientificity, standardization and applicability of the standards, providing a crucial support for advancing the microbiological quality control in pharmaceutical industries of China.

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is largely attributed to impaired endogenous repair. Nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells (NPSCs) senescence leads to endogenous repair failure. Small extracellular vesicles/exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (mExo) have shown great therapeutic potential in IDD, while whether mExo could alleviate NPSCs senescence and its mechanisms remained unknown. We established a compression-induced NPSCs senescence model and rat IDD models to evaluate the therapeutic efficiency of mExo and investigate the mechanisms. We found that mExo significantly alleviated NPSCs senescence and promoted disc regeneration while knocking down thioredoxin (TXN) impaired the protective effects of mExo. TXN was bound to various endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) proteins. Autocrine motility factor receptor (AMFR) mediated TXN K63 ubiquitination to promote the binding of TXN on ESCRT proteins and sorting of TXN into mExo. Knocking down exosomal TXN inhibited the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and activator protein 1 (AP-1). NRF2 and AP-1 inhibition reduced endogenous TXN production that was promoted by exosomal TXN. Inhibition of NRF2 in vivo diminished the anti-senescence and regenerative effects of mExo. Conclusively, AMFR-mediated TXN ubiquitination promoted the sorting of TXN into mExo, allowing exosomal TXN to promote endogenous TXN production in NPSCs via TXN/NRF2/AP-1 feed-forward circuit to alleviate NPSCs senescence and disc degeneration.

Background/Aims: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a significant risk factor for gallstone formation, but mechanisms underlying MASH-related gallstone formation remain unclear. Golgi membrane protein 1 (GOLM1) participates in hepatic cholesterol metabolism and is upregulated in MASH. Here, we aimed to explore the role of GOLM1 in MASH-related gallstone formation. Methods: The UK Biobank cohort was used for etiological analysis. GOLM1 knockout (GOLM1-/-) and wild-type (WT) mice were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD). Livers were excised for histology and immunohistochemistry analysis. Gallbladders were collected to calculate incidence of cholesterol gallstones (CGSs). Biles were collected for biliary lipid analysis. HepG2 cells were used to explore underlying mechanisms. Human liver samples were used for clinical validation. Results: MASH patients had a greater risk of cholelithiasis. All HFD-fed mice developed MASH, and the incidence of gallstones was 16.7% and 75.0% in GOLM1-/- and WT mice, respectively. GOLM1-/- decreased biliary cholesterol concentration and output. In vivo and in vitro assays confirmed that GOLM1 facilitated cholesterol efflux through upregulating ATP binding cassette transporter subfamily G member 5 (ABCG5). Mechanistically, GOLM1 translocated into nucleus to promote osteopontin (OPN) transcription, thus stimulating ABCG5-mediated cholesterol efflux. Moreover, GOLM1 was upregulated by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in a dose-dependent manner. Finally, we confirmed that IL-1β, GOLM1, OPN, and ABCG5 were enhanced in livers of MASH patients with CGSs. Conclusions In MASH livers, upregulation of GOLM1 by IL-1β increases ABCG5-mediated cholesterol efflux in an OPN-dependent manner, promoting CGS formation. GOLM1 has the potential to be a molecular hub interconnecting MASH and CGSs.

Background: In acute and chronic renal inflammatory diseases, the activation of inflammatory cells is involved in the defect of erythropoietin (EPO) production. Ras guanine nucleotide-releasing protein-4 (RasGRP4) promotes renal inflammatory injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of RasGRP4 in the production of renal EPO in diabetes. Methods: The degree of tissue injury was observed by pathological staining. Inflammatory cell infiltration was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. Serum EPO levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and EPO production and renal interstitial fibrosis were analyzed by immunofluorescence. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of key inflammatory factors and the activation of signaling pathways. In vitro, the interaction between peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and C3H10T1/2 cells was investigated via cell coculture experiments. Results: RasGRP4 decreased the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 2-alpha (HIF2A) via the ubiquitination–proteasome degradation pathway and promoted myofibroblastic transformation by activating critical inflammatory pathways, consequently reducing the production of EPO in T2DM mice. Conclusion RasGRP4 participates in the production of renal EPO in diabetic mice by affecting the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in PBMCs, degrading HIF2A, and promoting the myofibroblastic transformation of C3H10T1/2 cells.

Ketone body metabolism plays a significant role in the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy(DR), which closely related to the system and local metabolic disorders as a major microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus. Previous research has established a close relationship between dyslipidemia and DR progression. Ketone bodies, comprising β-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and acetone, are metabolic products generated from fat breakdown when glucose metabolism is impaired. Studies have revealed that ketone body metabolism is intricately linked to multiple pathophysiological processes in DR, including oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and neurodegeneration within retinal cells. This article provides a review exploring the impact of ketone body metabolism on the pathogenesis of DR, and systematically reviews the latest research progress on the impact of ketone bodies on the core pathological links such as retinal vascular barrier destruction, glial cell activation and angiogenesis through metabolic reprogramming, epigenetic modification and cell signal transduction, so as to provide a theoretical basis for in-depth understanding of the metabolic driving mechanism of DR.

By systematically combing ancient and modern literature， this paper examined Tribuli Fructus and Astragali Complanati Semen（ACS） used in the famous classical formulas from the aspects of name， origin， production area， harvesting and processing， clinical efficacy， so as to provide a basis for the development of famous classical formulas containing such medicinal materials. The results showed that the names of Tribuli Fructus in the past dynasties were mostly derived from its morphology， and there were nicknames such as Baijili， Cijili and Dujili. The name of ACS in the past dynasties were mostly originated from its production areas， and there were nicknames such as Baijili， Shayuan Jili and Tongjili. Because both of them had the name of Baijili， confusion began to appear in the Song dynasty. In ancient and modern times， the main origin of Tribuli Fructus were Tribulus terrestris， and ancient literature recorded the genuine producing areas of Tribuli Fructus was Dali in Shaanxi and Tianshui in Gansu， but today it is mainly cultivated in Anhui and Shandong. The fruit is the medicinal part， harvested in autumn throughout history. There is no description of the quality of Tribuli Fructus in ancient times， and the plump， firm texture， grayish-white color is the best in modern times. Traditional processing methods for Tribuli Fructus included stir-frying and wine processing， while modern commonly used is purified， fried and salt-processed. The ancient records of Tribuli Fructus were spicy， bitter， and warm in nature， with modern research adding that it is slightly toxic. The main effects of ancient and modern times include treating wind disorders， improving vision， promoting muscle growth， and treating vitiligo. The mainstream base of ACS used throughout history is Astragalus complanatus. Ancient texts indicated ACS primarily originated from Shaanxi province. Today， the finest varieties come from Tongguan and Dali in Shaanxi. The medicinal part is the seed， traditionally harvested in autumn. Modern harvesting occurs in late autumn or early winter， followed by sun-drying. Ancient texts valued seeds with a fragrant aroma as superior， while modern standards prioritize plump， uniform and free of impurities. Traditional processing methods for ACS included frying until blackened and wine-frying， while modern practice commonly employs purification methods. In terms of medicinal properties， the ancient and modern records are sweet and warm in nature. Due to originally classified under Tribuli Fructus， its effects were thus regarded as equivalent to those of Tribuli Fructus， serving as the medicine for treating wind disorders， additional functions included tonifying the kidneys and treating vitiligo. The present record of its efficacy is to tonify the kidney and promote Yang， solidify sperm and reduce urine， nourish the liver and brighten the eye， etc. Based on the textual research results， it is suggested that when developing the famous classical formulas of Tribuli Fructus medicinal materials， we should pay attention to the specific reference object of Baijili， T. terrestris and A. complanatus should be identified and selected， and the processing method should be in accordance with the requirements of the formulas.

Visual electrophysiology measurements have become a routine method of functional examination in ophthalmology. Small animal visual electrophysiology is an important tool for exploring the functionality of the visual system in small animals, finding widespread applications in neuroscience and drug research and development. This guide aims to offer a standardized operational guide for the operation of visual electrophysiological norms in small animals to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of the test. The study emphasizes different types of visual electrophysiological tests, such as electroretinogram(ERG)and visual evoked potential(VEP), evoked in small animals, and their application in different disease models. Detailed descriptions are provided regarding the selection and preparation of experimental animals, including the requirements of animal species, anesthesia methods and test environment. In terms of operational procedures, this guide highlights the correct electrode placement, the selection of stimulus parameters, and the key steps for signal acquisition and processing. According to different animal models, the corresponding operation suggestions were provided, and the troubleshooting methods of common problems were introduced. Beyond fundamental operations, this guide also focuses on the interpretation and reporting of test results. It explains various types of electrophysiological waveforms. In summary, this operational specification for small animal visual electrophysiology provides a comprehensive and detailed framework for researchers to ensure the standardization and reliability of tests. By following these guidelines, researchers can effectively utilize small animal visual electrophysiology techniques to gain insight into the function and abnormalities of the visual system.

Micro/nanoplastics (MNPs), recognized as emerging environmental pollutants, are widely distributed in natural environments. Due to their small particle size and significant migratory capacity, MNPs can infiltrate diverse environmental matrices, then invade and accumulate in the organism via the skin, respiration, and digestion. Recently, concerns have grown over the detrimental effects and potential toxicity of MNPs on reproductive health. This review summarized published epidemiological and toxicological studies related to MNPs exposure and their effects on reproductive health. Firstly, this review critically examined the current landscape of epidemiological evidence and found that MNPs (e.g., polystyrene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, etc.) are present in various biological specimens from both males and females, and their presence may be associated with an increased risk of reproductive disorders. Secondly, extensive toxicological studies revealed that MNPs exposure induces reproductive health damage through mechanisms such as disrupting the microstructure of reproductive organs and altering molecular-level expressions. Oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and apoptosis are identified as potential links between MNPs exposure and reproductive damage. Finally, this review addressed the prevalent shortcomings in existing studies and proposed future directions to tackle the challenges posed by MNPs-induced reproductive harm. These insights aim to inform strategies for safeguarding public reproductive health and ecological security, providing a scientific foundation for mitigating risks associated with MNPs pollution.

Objective:To observe the effects of RasGRP4 gene deletion on the structure and function of the retina in diabetic mice, and to explore the mechanism of RasGRP4 in diabetic retinopathy (DR) by transcriptome sequencing in conjunction with bioinformatics analysis. Methods:A total of 12 male C57BL/6J mice were divided into normal group, diabetic group (DM group), with 6 mice in each group. Six male RasGRP4 knockout mice were uesd as RasGRP4 knockout diabetic group (DM-KO group). Mice in the DM group and DM-KO group were fed with high-fat diet combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin to establish diabetic model and body weight and blood glucose were monitored regularly. Three months after modeling, optical coherence tomography was used to detect the retinal thickness and ganglion cell layer thickness. Electroretinography was used to detect the function of the retina in mice under dark-adapted conditions. Total RNA was extracted from the retinas of mice in DM group and DM-KO group, and transcriptomic sequencing was performed to screen differentially expressed genes (DEG). Core genes were screened using MCODE and Cytohubba plug-ins of Cytoscape v3.8.2 software. At the same time, the functional enrichment analysis of gene samples (GO) of the selected DEG was performed. The mRNA relative expression levels of interleukin-8, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), NOd-like receptor thermal protein domain protein 3 (NLRP3), Caspase-1 and IL-1β in each group were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. t test was used to compare the two groups. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare the three groups. Results:Compared with the DM group, there was no significant difference in blood glucose and body weight in the DM-KO group with the extension of high-fat diet ( t=0.12, 2.02, 0.22, 0.10, 0.59, 0.41, 1.35, 0.31, 1.12, 1.58, 1.47, 1.20, 1.24, 0.39, 0.66, 0.14; P>0.05). The retinal thickness and ganglion cell layer thickness of mice in the three groups were significantly reduced in the DM group compared with the normal group, while DM-KO was significantly increased compared with the DM group, and the differences were statistically significant ( F=30.43, 7.81; P<0.000 1, 0.01). Comparison of a-wave and b-wave amplitudes among the three groups showed that the DM group was significantly lower than the normal group, while the DM-KO was significantly higher than the DM group, and the differences were statistically significant ( F=16.46, 35.58; P<0.001, 0.000 1). Compared with the DM group, 184 differential genes (DEG) were screened in the DM-KO group, among which 39 up-regulated and 145 down-regulated genes were detected, respectively. The results of the MCODE plug-in analysis showed that Col1a2, Fbln1, Fbn1, Col6a3, Fmod, Ogn, Tgfb, Mfap4, Vcan, Nid2, and Col18a1 were core genes in the DEG. Cytohubba plug-in analysis showed that Col1a2, Mrc1, Cd47, Fbn1, Cybb, Cd163, Fbln1, Fmod, Adgre1, and Col6a3 were the core genes in DEG. The results of the GO functional enrichment analysis showed that DEG was mainly involved in hemoglobin complexes, MHC class Ⅱ protein complex, apical plasma membrane, inflammasome complex, immunological synapse, response to bacterium, inflammatory response, immune system processe, response to hypoxia, and cell adhesion were significantly enriched. Comparison of mRNA relative expression levels of IL-8, TGF-β, IFN-γ, NLRP3, Caspase-1 and IL-1β in the three groups showed that the DM group was significantly higher than the normal group, while the DM-KO was significantly lower than the DM group, with statistical significance ( F=12.43, 15.41, 70.09, 29.04, 11.79, 41.28; P<0.01). Conclusion:RasGRP4 deficiency plays a therapeutic role in the development of DR through inhibition of inflammatory factor secretion and NLRP 3 inflammasome pathway activation.