1.Exploring Chemical Constituent Distribution in Blood/Brain(Hippocampus) and Emotional Regulatory Effect of Raw and Vinegar-processed Products of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride
Yi BAO ; Yonggui SONG ; Qianmin LI ; Zhifu AI ; Genhua ZHU ; Ming YANG ; Huanhua XU ; Qin ZHENG ; Yiting HUANG ; Zihan GAO ; Dan SU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(2):189-197
ObjectiveTo investigate the migration and distribution characteristics of chemical constituents in blood and hippocampal tissues before and after vinegar processing of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride(CRPV), and to explore the potential material basis and mechanisms underlying their regulatory effects on emotional disorders by comparing the effects of raw and vinegar-processed products of CRPV. MethodsUltra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry(UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) was employed to characterize and identify the chemical constituents of raw and vinegar-processed products of CRPV extracts, as well as their migrating components in blood and hippocampal tissues after oral administration. Reference standards, databases, and relevant literature were utilized for compound annotation, with data processing performed using PeakView 1.2 software. Seventy male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into seven groups, including the blank group, model group, diazepam group(2.5 mg·kg-1), raw CRPV low/high dose groups(0.6, 1.2 g·kg-1), and vinegar-processed CRPV low/high dose groups(0.6, 1.2 g·kg-1), with 10 mice per group. Except for the blank group, all other groups underwent chronic restraint stress(2 h·d-1) for 20 d. Each drug-treated group received oral administration at the predetermined dose starting 10 d after modeling, with a total treatment duration of 10 d. Following model-based drug administration, mice underwent open-field, forced swimming, and elevated plus maze tests. After anesthesia with isoflurane, whole brains were collected from each group of mice, and hippocampi were dissected. Reactive oxygen species(ROS) level in hippocampal tissues was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was used to observe hippocampal tissue morphology. Immunofluorescence was performed to detect neuronal nuclei(NeuN) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha(PPARα) expressions in hippocampal tissue. Then, pharmacodynamic evaluations were conducted to assess the effects of raw and vinegar-processed CRPV on mood disorders, exploring the potential mechanisms. ResultsVinegar processing caused significant changes in the chemical composition of CRPV, with 18 components showing increased relative content and 35 components showing decreased relative content. The primary changes occurred in flavonoid compounds, including 20 flavonoids, 20 flavonoid glycosides, 3 triterpenes, 3 phenolic acids, 1 alkaloid, and 6 other compounds. Twenty-one components were detected in blood(15 methoxyflavones, 4 flavonoid glycosides, and 2 phenolic acids), with 17 shared between raw and vinegar-processed CRPV. Seven components reached hippocampal tissues(all common to both forms). In regulating emotional disorders, Vinegar-processed CRPV exhibited superior antidepressant-like effects compared to raw products. HE staining revealed that both treatments improved hippocampal neuronal morphology, particularly in the damaged CA1 and CA3 regions. Immunofluorescence and ELISA analyses demonstrated that both raw and vinegar-processed CRPV significantly modulated NeuN and PPARα expressions in hippocampal tissue while alleviating oxidative stress induced by excessive ROS(P<0.05). ConclusionThe chemical composition of CRPV undergoes changes after vinegar processing, but the migrating components in blood and hippocampus are primarily methoxyflavonoids. These components may serve as the potential material basis for activating the PPARα pathway, thereby negatively regulating ROS generation in the hippocampus, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting the development of NeuN-positive neurons. These findings provide experimental evidence for enhancing quality standards, pharmacodynamic material research, and active drug development of raw and vinegar-processed CRPV.
2.Effect of Ningying Formula (宁瘿方) Combined with Low-Dose Antithyroid Drugs on Reducing Relapse Risk for Patients with Graves' Hyperthyroidism in Remission Stage:A Retrospective Cohort Study
Yuqin HUANG ; Mingshuai ZHANG ; Shijian LIU ; Feng TAO ; Yi CHEN
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(1):45-52
ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of Ningying Formula (宁瘿方) combined with low-dose antithyroid drugs (ATDs) on the relapse risk for patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism (GH) during the remission phase, and to analyze the related factors between GH relapse and thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) negativity, so as to provide evidence for the standardized management of GH in remission stage. MethodsA single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 269 GH patients in the remission stage. After propensity score matching (PSM), 102 matched pairs (204 patients) were established. The control group received low-dose ATDs as maintenance therapy, while the exposure group received the core Ningying Formula in addition to low-dose ATDs. The primary outcome was the GH recurrence rate; the secondary outcome was the thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) negativity rate (TRAb<1.75 IU/L). Safety outcomes included treatment-related adverse events. Differences between groups were assessed using Cox regression models and Kaplan-Meier curves, with sensitivity analysis performed using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). ResultsThe median follow-up in the matched cohort was 28.07 months. Regarding the GH recurrence outcome, the recurrence rate in the exposure group (18/102, 17.6%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (31/102, 30.4%; χ²=4.539, P=0.033); regarding the TRAb negativity outcome, the TRAb negativity rate in the exposure group (50/102, 49.0%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (23/102, 22.5%; χ²=15.551, P<0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis for recurrence showed that Ningying Formula treatment reduced the risk of recurrence [HR=0.324, 95%CI(0.170, 0.617), P<0.001]. Male [HR=2.209, 95%CI(1.079, 4.520), P=0.030], higher initial TRAb level [per 1 IU/L increase: HR=1.033, 95%CI(1.003, 1.064), P=0.032], and larger thyroid volume [per 1 ml increase: HR=1.045, 95%CI(1.003, 1.088), P=0.035] were identified as independent risk factors for recurrence; multivariate Cox regression analysis for TRAb negativity indicated that Ningying Formula treatment promoted TRAb negativity [HR=1.826, 95%CI(1.091, 3.056), P=0.022], while a higher initial TRAb level was associated with a lower probability of negativity [HR=0.974, 95%CI(0.950, 0.998), P=0.032]. Survival analysis showed significant differences in relapse rate between groups (Log-Rank P=0.003) and in TRAb outcomes (Log-Rank P=0.034). The incidence of treatment-related adverse events was similar between groups (P=0.757). The IPTW sensitivity analysis was consistent with the primary analysis, indicating robust results. ConclusionThe Ningying Formula combined with low-dose ATDs can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence and can improve the TRAb negativity rate in GH patients during the remission stage, without increasing common adverse events, making it an optional strategy for reducing relapse risk during remission. Male gender, higher baseline TRAb level, and larger thyroid volume indicate a higher risk of recurrence, warranting focused follow-up and stratified management.
3.Effects of Jishe Qushi Capsule (脊蛇祛湿胶囊) on Serum NETs Levels and Macrophage Polarization in Collagen-Induced Arthritis Model Rats
Nina REN ; Wukai MA ; Yi LING ; Xueming YAO ; Ying HUANG ; Daomin LU ; Changming CHEN ; Weichen HUANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(1):60-68
ObjectiveTo investigate the possible mechanism of Jishe Qushi Capsule (脊蛇祛湿胶囊, JQC) in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from the perspective of macrophage polarization mediated by neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). MethodsTwenty-four female SD rats were randomly divided into four groups, blank control group, model group, JQC group, and peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) inhibitor group with 6 rats in each group. All groups but the blank control group were subjected to the induction of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). After successful model establishment, rats in the JQC group received intragastric administration of JQC 1.47 g/kg daily; rats in the PAD4 inhibitor group received intraperitoneal injections of the PAD4 inhibitor 4 mg/kg weekly. Rats in the blank, model, and PAD4 inhibitor groups received 2 ml of pure water daily by gavage. All treatments lasted 4 weeks. Joint lesions of each group were assessed on day 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 after model establishment, and arthritis index (AI) scores were recorded. At 24 h after the final administration, histopathology of knee joints, including HE staining, safranin O-fast green staining, and TRAP staining, was performed. Flow cytometry was used to detect the counts of M1 and M2 macrophages in peripheral blood. ELISA was used to determine serum levels of TRACP, NETs, TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS. Western Blotting and qRT-PCR were used to measure MPO, NE, RANKL, OPG, and p65 protein and mRNA expression in knee cartilage tissue. ResultsCompared with the blank control group, the model group showed increased AI scores (P<0.05), marked synovial inflammatory infiltration, angiogenesis, and bone-cartilage destruction, increased TRAP-positive osteoclasts, increased M1 macrophages and decreased M2 macrophages, elevated serum TRACP, NETs, TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS (P<0.05), elevated MPO, NE, RANKL, and p65 protein/mRNA expression and decreased OPG protein/mRNA expression in knee cartilage tissue (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the JQC group exhibited improved synovial inflammation, angiogenesis, and bone-cartilage damage, reduced AI scores on day 21, 28, and 35, decreased osteoclast counts, decreased M1 macrophages and increased M2 macrophages, reduced serum TRACP, NETs, TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS (P<0.05), decreased MPO, NE, RANKL, and p65 protein/mRNA expression and increased OPG expression (P<0.05). Compared with the PAD4 inhibitor group, the JQC group showed significantly lower AI scores, reduced M1 macrophages, increased M2 macrophages (P<0.05), reduced serum TRACP, TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS, decreased MPO, RANKL, and p65 expression, and increased OPG levels (P<0.05). ConclusionThe therapeutic mechanism of JQC for RA may involve inhibition of NETs formation, downregulation of the RANKL/NF-κB signaling pathway, and regulation of macrophage M1/M2 polarization imbalance, thereby suppressing osteoclastogenesis and inflammatory bone destruction.
4.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.
5.Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety total glucosides of paeonia in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus
Xiangyan HAO ; Jiahui LENG ; Zhengqi LIU ; Xinchang WANG ; Cong HUANG ; Xiaopeng LI ; Yi LING
China Pharmacy 2026;37(2):232-237
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of total glucosides of paeonia (TGP) in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS Randomized controlled trial (RCT) about TGP combined with western medicine versus western medicine alone for SLE treatment were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang Data, and CBM. The search period spanned from the inception of each database to June 1, 2025. After literature screening, data extraction, and quality assessment of the included studies, Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS Fifteen RCTs, involving 1 318 patients, were included. Meta-analysis results showed that compared with western medicine alone, TGP combined with western medicine significantly improved clinical efficacy [OR=4.96, 95%CI(3.41, 7.23), P<0.000 01], complement 3 [MD=0.18, 95%CI (0.13, 0.23), P<0.000 01] and complement 4[MD=0.08, 般021) 95%CI (0.04, 0.11), P<0.000 01], and reduced the levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) [MD=-3.10, 95%CI (-3.59,-2.62), P<0.000 01], IgA [MD=-0.68, 95%CI (-0.78, -0.58), P<0.000 01], IgM [MD=-0.43, 95%CI (-0.53,-0.34), P<0.000 01], systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI) [MD=-1.59, 95%CI (-2.20, -0.99), P<0.000 01], recurrence rate [OR=0.23, 95%CI (0.13, 0.42), P<0.000 01] and the incidence of adverse drug reactions [OR= 0.54, 95%CI (0.36, 0.82), P=0.004]. CONCLUSIONS TGP therapy can improve clinical efficacy of SLE patients, promote the restoration of immunoglobulins and complements, reduce SLEDAI and recurrence rate and has good safety.
6.Regulatory Pathways of Cell Apoptosis in Diabetic Kidney Disease and Intervention by Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Review
Yunjie YANG ; Mingqian JIANG ; Chen QIU ; Yaqing RUAN ; Senlin CHEN ; Wenxin HUANG ; Hangbin ZHENG ; Yi WEI ; Pengfei LI ; Xueqin LIN ; Jing WU ; Shiwei RUAN ; Jianting WANG ; Yuliang QIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(9):294-306
Diabetic kidney disease(DKD) is a chronic kidney structural and functional disorder caused by diabetes. With the global prevalence of diabetes continuing to rise, DKD has gradually become a major cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease(ESRD), posing a serious threat to patients' quality of life and long-term health outcomes. Studies have shown that apoptosis plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of DKD, with its mechanisms involving abnormal activation of multiple signaling pathways such as Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear transcription factor-κB(NF-κB)/B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2)/cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase(Caspase)-3, protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase(PERK)/eukaryotic initiation factor 2α(eIF2α)/activating transcript factor 4(ATF4)/CCAAT enhancer-binding protein homologous protein(CHOP), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt)/glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β), Janus kinase 2(JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR) and silent information regulator 1(SIRT1)/tumor suppressor protein 53(p53), thereby accelerating renal pathological damage in DKD. Extensive evidence-based medical studies have confirmed that traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), leveraging its unique therapeutic advantages of multi-target, multi-component and multi-pathway approaches, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy and favorable safety profiles in treating DKD. Recent studies have demonstrated that active components of TCM can specifically target and modulate key effectors in apoptotic signaling pathways. Meanwhile, traditional compound formulations exert synergistic effects through multiple approaches such as replenishing deficiency and activating blood circulation, detoxifying and dredging collaterals, tonifying kidney essence, and removing stasis and purging turbidity, thereby comprehensively regulating critical pathological processes including endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. This combined therapeutic approach of molecular targeting and holistic regulation provides novel strategies for delaying the progression of DKD. Based on this, this paper provides an in-depth analysis of key apoptotic signaling pathways and their regulatory mechanisms, while systematically summarizing recent research advances regarding the therapeutic effects of TCM active components, compound formulations, and proprietary Chinese medicines on DKD through modulation of these pathways, with particular emphasis on their underlying molecular mechanisms. These findings not only elucidate the modern scientific connotation and theoretical basis of TCM in treating DKD but also establish a solid theoretical and practical foundation for promoting the wider clinical application and further research of TCM in the field of DKD treatment.
7.Effects of galangin on rheumatoid arthritis in rats by regulating the JAK3/STAT3 pathway
Yan HUANG ; Weiming WANG ; Haiying LIU ; Yi ZHAN ; Xi CHEN ; Dehong YU
China Pharmacy 2026;37(6):764-769
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of galangin on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in rats by regulating the Janus kinase 3 (JAK3)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. METHODS Fifty male SD rats were taken, and an emulsion composed of bovine type Ⅱ collagen and Freund’s complete adjuvant was injected subcutaneously to establish an induced arthritis model. The rats that were successfully modeled were randomly divided into model group, low, medium and high dose groups of galangin (1, 5, 15 mg/kg), and methotrexate group (positive control, 2 mg/kg), with 10 rats in each group. Another 10 normal rats were taken as the normal group. Starting from the 15th day of modeling, each group of rats was gavaged with the corresponding drug solution or normal saline containing 0.5% Tween 80 once a day for 28 consecutive days. The arthritis index (AI) scores and paw volume of rats were compared before and after gavage administration. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, the serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-4 and IL-10 were determined, the pathological changes in ankle joint synovial tissue were observed, and the protein expressions of UNC-51 like kinase 1 (ULK1), Beclin-1, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, JAK3, phosphorylated JAK3 (p-JAK3), STAT3 and phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) in the synovial tissue of the ankle joint were detected, as well as the fluorescence intensity of LC3-positive areas. RESULTS Compared with the model group, the pathological changes such as cellular proliferation of ankle joint synovial tissue and infiltration of inflammatory cells in rats of each administration group showed improvement. Moreover, their AI scores and paw pad volumes (on day 28 after gavage), the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, the protein expression of Bcl-2, and the phosphorylation levels of JAK3 and STAT3 were all significantly reduced ( P <0.05). The levels of IL-4 and IL-10, the protein expressions of ULK1, Beclin-1, Bax, caspase-3 and LC3, as well as the fluorescence intensity of LC3-positive areas, were all significantly increased ( P <0.05). Moreover, the effect of galangin was in a dose-dependent manner ( P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS Galangin can induce sustained autophagy in synovial tissue cells of RA rats, promote cell apoptosis, inhibit synovial cell proliferation, and alleviate persistent inflammatory responses. The above anti-RA effects may be related to the inhibition of the JAK3/STAT3 pathway.
8.Analysis of components absorbed into blood and brain of Lithocarpus litseifolius leaves
Huan LIU ; Zirong YI ; Ting HUANG ; Xiuhong LIU ; Yunyao YE ; Yuming MA ; Mengqi HU ; Nan ZHANG ; Wenhao YANG ; Yang LIU ; Guopeng WANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(7):889-894
OBJECTIVE To analyze the prototype components absorbed into blood and brain of Lithocarpus litseifolius leaves, so as to provide a reference for clarifying the pharmacological material basis of its prevention and treatment of central nervous system dis eases. METHODS The ethanol extract of L. litseifolius leaves, as well as the gastric lavage fluid and perfusion solution were prepared. Using rats as subjects, plasma samples of intestinal wall metabolism, intestinal flora metabolism and hepatic metabolism were prepared via in situ intestinal perfusion and closed intestinal loop method; while comprehensive metabolic plasma samples, brain tissue samples, and cerebrospinal fluid samples were collected after intragastric administration. UPLC-HRMS technology was utilized to analyze and identify chemical components and prototype components absorbed into blood and brain of L. litseifolius leaves. RESULTS A total of 66 chemical constituents were identified in L. litseifolius leaves, primarily consisting of flavonoids, organic acids, and others. A total of 16, 13, 11, and 5 prototype components were identified in intestinal wall metabolism, intestinal flora metabolism, hepatic metabolism, and comprehensive metabolic plasma samples, respectively. Additionally, 4 prototype components were detected in brain tissue and 9 in cerebrospinal fluid. Phloridzin, trilobatin, phloretin-2- O -malonyl hexoside, and phloretin were identified as common components across all sample types. CONCLUSIONS Prototype components absorbed into blood and brain of L. litseifolius leaves, such as phloridzin, trilobatin, phloretin, and other components may serve as the pharmacological material basis for their therapeutic effects on central nervous system diseases.
9.Clinical and genetic analysis of a child with 46,XX male phenotype due to SOX3 gene duplication.
Xiou WANG ; Fuying SONG ; Ziqin LIU ; Pengchao WANG ; Mu DU ; Yi SONG ; Shuyue HUANG ; Bingyan CHAO
Chinese Journal of Medical Genetics 2026;43(1):50-56
OBJECTIVE:
To summarize the clinical and genetic characteristics of a child with 46,XX Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (46,XX OTDSD) due to copy number variation of SOX3 gene.
METHODS:
A 46,XX male patient presented at the Capital Center for Children's Health, Capital Medical University in November 2024 was selected as the study subject. Clinical data of the child was collected. Peripheral blood samples were taken from the child and his parents and subjected to trio whole-genome sequencing. Skewed X-chromosome inactivation was tested in the child and his mother. A literature review was carried out on 46,XX males associated with mutations of the SOX3 gene. This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Hospital (Ethics No.: SHERLL2025056).
RESULTS:
The 10-year-old boy presented with hypospadias and cryptorchidism at birth. Chromosome analysis at one year and a half revealed a 46,XX karyotype. Gonadal biopsy showed testicular tissue, while ultrasound at the age of 10 detected ovotesticular tissue. Whole-genome sequencing identified a 660 kb duplication in the Xq27.1 region, which was derived from his mother. X-chromosome inactivation testing showed random inactivation in the child and mild non-random inactivation in the mother. Literature review has found 11 publications involving 15 patients (including our case), among whom 14 had a male social gender. They had primarily presented with hypospadias at birth but had no significant endocrine abnormalities. Most patients had experienced testicular failure after puberty. SOX3 related 46,XX males are mainly caused by de novo duplications, although a few maternal carriers had been discovered.
CONCLUSION
Duplication of the SOX3 gene probably underlay the pathogenesis is this 46,XX male. Individuals with 46,XX SRY negative male phenotypes should be routinely screened for SOX3 gene variants. Structural variations of the SOX3 gene can lead to complete or partial sex reversal in 46,XX individuals with minimal impact on intellectual and motor development, as well as other endocrine hormones.
Child
;
Humans
;
Male
;
46, XX Disorders of Sex Development/genetics*
;
DNA Copy Number Variations
;
Gene Duplication
;
Phenotype
;
SOXB1 Transcription Factors/genetics*
10.Construction of Organoid-on-a-chip and Its Applications in Biomedical Fields
Rui-Xia LIU ; Jing ZHANG ; Xiao LI ; Yi LIU ; Long HUANG ; Hong-Wei HOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):293-308
Organoid-on-a-chip technology represents a promising interdisciplinary advancement that merges two cutting-edge biomedical platforms: stem cell-derived organoids and microfluidics-based organ-on-a-chip systems. Organoids are self-organizing three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures that mimic the key structural and functional features of in vivo organs. However, traditional organoid culture systems are often static, lacking dynamic environmental cues and suffering from limitations such as batch-to-batch variability, low stability, and low throughput. Organ-on-a-chip platforms, by contrast, utilize microfluidic technologies to simulate the dynamic physiological microenvironment of human tissues and organs, enabling more controlled cell growth and differentiation. By integrating the advantages of organoids and organ-on-a-chip technologies, organoid-on-a-chip systems transcend the limitations of conventional 3D culture models, offering a more physiologically relevant and controllable in vitro platform. In organoid-on-a-chip systems, stem cells or pre-formed organoids are cultured in micro-engineered environments that mimic in vivo conditions, enabling precise control over fluid flow, mechanical forces, and biochemical cues. Specifically, these platforms employ advanced strategies including bio-inspired 3D scaffolds for structural support, precise spatial cell patterning via 3D bioprinting, and integrated biosensors for real-time monitoring of metabolic activities. These synergistic elements recreate complex extracellular matrix signals and ensure high structural fidelity. Based on structural complexity, organoid-on-a-chip systems are classified into single-organoid and multi-organoid types, forming a trajectory from unit biomimicry to systemic simulation. Single-organoid chips focus on highly biomimetic units by integrating vascular, immune, or neural functions. Multi-organoid chips simulate inter-organ crosstalk and systemic homeostasis, advancing complex disease modeling and PK/PD evaluation. This emerging technology has demonstrated broad application potential in multiple fields of biomedicine. Organoid-on-a-chip systems can recapitulate organ developmentin vitro, facilitating research in developmental biology. They mimic organ-specific physiological activities and mechanisms, showing promising applications in regenerative medicine for tissue repair or replacement. In disease modeling, they support the reconstruction of models for neurodegenerative, inflammatory, infectious, metabolic diseases, and cancers. These platforms also enable in vitro drug testing and pharmacokinetic studies (ADME). Patient-derived chips preserve genetic and pathological features, offering potential for precision medicine. Additionally, they reduce species differences in toxicology, providing human-relevant data for environmental, food, cosmetic, and drug safety assessments. Despite progress, organoid-on-a-chip systems face challenges in dynamic simulation, extracellular matrix (ECM) variability, and limited real-time 3D imaging, requiring improved materials and the integration of developmental signals. Current bottlenecks also include the high technical threshold for automation and the lack of standardized validation frameworks for regulatory adoption. Meanwhile, the concept of a “human-on-a-chip” has been proposed to mimic whole-body physiology by integrating multiple organoid modules. This approach enables systemic modeling of drug responses and toxicity, with the potential to reduce animal testing and revolutionize drug development. Future advancements in bio-responsive hydrogels and flexible biosensors will further empower these platforms to bridge the gap between bench-side research and personalized clinical interventions. In conclusion, organoid-on-a-chip technology offers a transformative in vitro model that closely recapitulates the complexity of human tissues and organ systems. It provides an unprecedented platform for advancing biomedical research, clinical translation, and pharmaceutical innovation. Continued development in biomaterials, microengineering, and analytical technologies will be essential to unlocking the full potential of this powerful tool.

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