1.Primary Cilium-mediated Mechano-metabolic Coupling: Cross-system Homeostatic Regulation of The Nervous, Bone, Vascular, and Renal Systems
Liang-Chen DUAN ; Hao-Liang HU ; Shu-Zhi WANG ; Jia-Long YAN ; Lin-Xi CHEN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):577-592
Primary cilia—those solitary, microtubule-based projections extending from the surface of most eukaryotic cells—are increasingly recognized not merely as cellular appendages, but as sophisticated signaling hubs. By compartmentalizing specific receptors (e.g., GPCRs) and effectors within a microdomain guarded by the transition zone, these organelles function effectively as high-gain sensors capable of integrating mechanical stimuli with metabolic cues. In this review, we examine the pivotal role of primary cilia across the nervous, bone-vascular, and renal landscapes, arguing for a unified “mechano-metabolic coupling” framework. Here, conserved ciliary modules are not static; rather, they are differentially deployed to uphold systemic homeostasis. Within the central nervous system, we position primary cilia as upstream integrators. We highlight how hypothalamic neuronal cilia concentrate metabolic receptors, such as the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), to interpret energy status. Moreover, the recent identification of serotonergic “axon-cilium synapses” points to a direct mode of neurotransmission, wherein 5-HT6 receptors drive nuclear signaling and chromatin accessibility to rapidly modulate gene expression. Through these mechanisms, central cilia modulate sympathetic tone and neuroendocrine output, effectively establishing the mechanical and metabolic “boundary conditions” under which peripheral organs operate. Dysfunction in these central hubs is linked to obesity and neurodevelopmental disorders, including Bardet-Biedl syndrome. In peripheral tissues, cilia serve as versatile mechanotransducers that convert physical forces into biochemical responses. Regarding the bone-vascular system, we discuss the translation of mechanical loads and fluid shear stress into structural remodeling. In osteoblasts, specifically, ciliary integrity is intrinsically linked to cholesterol and glucose metabolism, fine-tuning the balance between Hedgehog and Wnt/β-catenin signaling to govern osteogenesis and bone repair. A similar dynamic exists in the vasculature, where endothelial cilia sense shear stress to modulate KLF4 expression and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition—processes critical for valvulogenesis and vascular remodeling. Meanwhile, in the kidney, tubular cilia act as terminal effectors within a “shear-cilia-metabolism” axis. Here, fluid shear stress engages ciliary signaling to trigger AMPK-mediated lipophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis, thereby securing the ATP supply required for solute transport. Notably, dysregulation of this axis leads to metabolic reprogramming and aberrant proliferation, acting as a hallmark driver of cystogenesis in polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Crucially, this review attempts to dissect the often-conflated logic of cross-system integration by distinguishing 3 non-equivalent pathways: direct communication via ciliary extracellular vesicles, though this remains largely hypothetical in long-range signaling; “physiology-mediated cascades”, where ciliary dysfunction in a single organ—such as the kidney—precipitates systemic pathology through hemodynamic and metabolic shifts (e.g., altered blood pressure, fluid volume, or uremic toxins); and “parallel molecular defects”, where shared genetic mutations in ubiquitous components like the IFT machinery cause simultaneous, independent failures across multiple organ systems. Building on these distinctions, we propose a nested-loop model that links central set-points with peripheral feedback via physiological variables. Furthermore, we construct a “causality-to-translation” roadmap that pinpoints structural repair (e.g., targeting IFT assembly) and metabolic rescue (e.g., AMPK activation or autophagy induction) as promising therapeutic avenues. Ultimately, this framework provides a theoretical basis for deciphering the shared pathological mechanisms of multisystem ciliopathies, offering a strategic guide for the development of targeted interventions that go beyond symptomatic treatment.
2.Effect of Oral Sodium Butyrate on Skeletal Muscle Atrophy via The Gut-muscle Axis in Antibiotic-pretreated CT26 Tumor-bearing Mice and Its Mechanism
Shu-Ling ZHANG ; Jun-Wei WANG ; Shi-Liang HU ; Tu-Tu WANG ; Shun-Chang LI ; Jia FAN ; Jun-Zhi SUN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):724-739
ObjectiveTo explore the effect of oral sodium butyrate on skeletal muscle atrophy in CT26 tumor mice through the gut microbiota-skeletal muscle axis and its potential mechanism. MethodsSixty SPF BALB/c male mice aged 8 weeks were randomly divided into a normal control group (NC, n=18) and a ABX-depleted group (ABX, n=42). The ABX mice were pretreated with a quadruple antibiotic cocktail via oral gavage (0.2 ml per administration, once daily, 6 d per week, for 2 weeks), whereas NC received an equal volume of sterile water. The quadruple antibiotic cocktail consisted of metronidazole (1 g/L), vancomycin (0.5 g/L), ampicillin (1 g/L), and gentamicin (1 g/L). Following successful pretreatment, six mice from each group were randomly selected for gut microbiota sequencing analysis and designated as the Abx group and the NC0 group, respectively. Theremaining mice in ABX were subcutaneously inoculated in the dorsum with 0.2 ml of CT26 cell suspension (at a cell density of 1×107/ml). Then these mice were randomly allocated into three subgroups: a control tumor bearing model group (0_NaB, n=12), a tumor-bearing model group receiving low-dose oral sodium butyrate (L_NaB, n=12), a tumor-bearing model group receiving high-dose oral sodium butyrate (H_NaB, n=12). And mice in NC were inoculated at the same site with 0.2 ml of normal saline. The administration dose for L_NaB was 0.3 g/(kg·d), that for H_NaB was 0.5 g/(kg·d), while NC and 0_NaB were given the same volume of normal saline (0.2ml per time, once daily, 6 d per week, for 4 weeks). The general condition of mice was monitored, and forelimb grip strength gastrocnemius muscle mass and its muscle fiber cross-sectional area were measured for each group. The structural changes in gut microbiota were assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing of cecal contents. Pathological alterations in the intestinal wall were examined via HE staining. Serum and gastrocnemius muscle levels of TNF‑α, IL-6, IL-1β, and LPS were quantified using ELISA. The protein expression of ZO-1 and occludin in the small intestine, as well as proteins associated with the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in the gastrocnemius muscle, were detected by Western blot analysis. Results(1) The alpha-diversity in Abx was significantly lower than that in NC0 (P<0.01), a significant decrease of the mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius (P<0.01), with the majority of gut microbiota being effectively depleted. (2) Compared with NC, the subcutaneous tumors of mice in 0_NaB were prominent, a significant increase of the mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius, accompanied by a significant decrease in body weight at the end of the 3th and 4th week (P<0.05), and a significant weakening of the forelimb grasping strength at the 5th and 6th week (P<0.01). Compared with 0_NaB, the tumor mass of mice in L_NaB and H_NaB showed a significant decreasing trend, and the grip strength of the forelimbs significantly increased at the 5th and 6th week (P<0.05, P<0.01). (3) Compared with 0_NaB, the Shannon and Observed species indices in α diversity of L_NaB and H_NaB were significantly increased (P<0.05). At the genus level, compared with 0_NaB, L_NaB exhibited a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Parasutterella (P< 0.01), while H_NaB showed significant reductions in the relative abundances of both Escherichia-Shigella and Parasutterella (P < 0.01). (4) Compared with 0_NaB, the small intestinal tissue structure in L_NaB and H_NaB was more intact, the infiltration of inflammatory cells was significantly reduced, and the capillaries were slightly dilated. The expression levels of ZO-1 and occludin proteins in L_NaB were significantly increased (P<0.01). (5) The LPS concentration in the gastrocnemius muscle and the protein expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-IκBα, and p-NF‑κB p65 in L_NaB and H_NaB were significantly lower than those in 0_NaB (P<0.05). The serum TNF‑α concentration in H_NaB and TNF-α concentration in the gastrocnemius muscle of the L_NaB and H_NaB were significantly lower than those in 0_NaB (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01). ConclusionOral administration of NaB can improve gut microbiota α diversity, adjusting its composition, improving intestinal mucosal barrier function, reducing the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory response, and delaying skeletal muscle atrophy. The underlying mechanism may involve down regulation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling in skeletal muscle.
3.A visualized analysis of research hotspots in high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation from the macroscopic perspective
Zeyu YANG ; Liang ZHI ; Jia WANG ; Jingyi ZHANG ; Qingfang ZHANG ; Yulong WANG ; Jianjun LONG
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(5):1320-1330
BACKGROUND:High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation has garnered significant attention due to its potential non-invasive benefits in modulating brain function.However,no studies have comprehensively analyzed the current research landscape and development trends of this field from a macroscopic perspective.OBJECTIVE:To explore research hotspots,current trends,and emerging frontiers in the field of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation through visualized analysis.METHODS:Data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection database from January 1,2014 to November 15,2024.CiteSpace was used for analyzing publication volume,collaborations among countries/regions,institutions and authors,citation analysis of journals and co-cited literature,as well as disciplinary distribution.Additionally,keyword co-occurrence,clustering,and burst analyses were conducted,and visualized knowledge maps were generated.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:A total of 860 articles were included.The publication volume of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation showed an overall upward trend from 2014 to 2022,followed by a decline from 2022 to 2024.China had the highest publication volume,while Ghent University ranked as the most productive institution.Universities acted as the most high-output institutions.Chris Baeken from Ghent University was identified as the most prolific author.Collaboration among leading authors and institutions worldwide remained limited.The main research hotspots in this field were associated with keywords such as depression,stroke,neuropathic pain,and Parkinson's disease.Burst keywords focused on mild cognitive impairment,reflecting a diversification in research directions.The overall research activity in high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation continues to rise,with primary focuses on its clinical applications for psychiatric and neurological disorders,as well as explorations of its underlying mechanisms.Future research may focus on optimizing treatment parameters for targeting different brain regions in clinical applications and expanding its applications and mechanisms across various domains.
4.Engineered Bacteriophages for The Treatment of Multidrug-resistant Bacterial Infections
Yu-Ying CHEN ; Chun-Mei HUANG ; Jin-Zhi PAN ; De-Liang LIU ; Yang ZHOU ; Gui-Qin DAI ; Peng-Fei ZHAO ; Hong-Zhou LU ; Ming-Bin ZHENG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(6):1581-1596
Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections have emerged as a serious challenge of global public health crisis. The overuse and misuse of conventional antibiotics have dramatically accelerated the emergence, evolution and worldwide spread of drug-resistant bacterial strains, necessitating urgent exploration of novel antibacterial strategies. Bacteriophages serve as natural bacterial predators offering distinct advantages including high host specificity, autonomous self-replication capabilities and cost-effective large-scale production. However, wild-type phages present significant clinical limitations due to their narrow host ranges, susceptibility to rapid immune clearance and poor penetration of bacterial biofilms, which severely restrict their therapeutic applications. The convergence of synthetic biology, nanotechnology and advanced gene editing technologies has accelerated the development of engineered bacteriophage platforms, providing programmable, scalable and clinically translatable pathways to overcome these inherent biological constraints. Here, we systematically delineate four fundamental strategies for engineered bacteriophage development. Chemical modification utilizes reactive functional groups such as amino, carboxyl and thiol moieties on capsid proteins through esterification, amidation or click chemistry reactions to achieve precise drug conjugation and surface functionalization. In vivo editing encompasses ultraviolet or chemical mutagenesis for random mutation induction, homologous recombination for targeted genetic alterations, recombineering methodologies including electroporation-mediated bacteriophage recombination engineering, and CRISPR-Cas systems for precise genome editing to enable exact genetic reconstruction and host range reprogramming. In vitro synthesis leverages genome engineering platforms where intact phage genomes are transferred into yeast or host bacteria to facilitate highly efficient homologous recombination, enabling large DNA fragment assembly and cross-gene host range expansion without bacterial toxicity constraints. Directed evolution combines artificial selection through mutation library screening with rational design approaches involving chimeric receptor binding protein construction or site-specific mutagenesis, effectively balancing the discovery of unknown adaptive pathways with targeted host specificity modification. Moreover, we comprehensively discuss therapeutic applications across diverse clinical scenarios. Engineered bacteriophage effectively disrupt bacterial biofilms through sophisticated functionalized delivery platforms including nanozyme-conjugated phages, phage-liposome nanoconjugates and bio-responsive hydrogels, demonstrating significantly enhanced bactericidal efficiency compared to unmodified free phages. These bioengineered vectors attenuate bacterial virulence and resensitize pathogens to antibiotics by delivering CRISPR-Cas systems or base editors to disrupt critical virulence factors such as pili, capsule synthesis machineries and quorum sensing systems, or by inactivating antibiotic resistance determinants including beta-lactamase genes. As an intelligent nanomedicine delivery platform, engineered bacteriophage enable precise pathogen elimination an through photocatalytic reactive oxygen species generation, immunomodulatory interventions, or controlled release of antibacterial drugs. Furthermore, oral administration of engineered bacteriophage facilitates microbiota modulation, which selectively eliminate intestinal pathogens while preserve beneficial commensal microbiota, thereby restoring microbial community balance and preventing complications associated with dysbiosis. Finally, we critically analyze persistent challenges including host strain matching complexity, evolution of bacterial resistance mechanisms, pharmacokinetic optimization requirements, optimal administration route selection, large-scale production quality control standards and clinical dosing determination protocols. Through multidisciplinary integration of synthetic biology, infectious disease medicine and immunology, future translational medicine studies of bacteriophage should establish comprehensive technical platforms encompassing rapid phage screening, intelligent rational design, rigorous in vivo evaluation and standardized clinical validation processes, ultimately advancing engineered bacteriophage from laboratory innovations to clinically approved therapeutics for effectively combating MDR bacterial infections.
5.Recurrent Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Predictors and Clinical Outcomes in a 24-Year Retrospective Cohort
Liang Wei Wong ; Lisa Mohamed Nor ; Raja Nurazni binti Raja Azwan ; Adilah Zulaikha binti Abd Latib ; Hidayatil Alimi bin Keya Nordin ; Qin Zhi Lee ; Kean Heng Lim ; Jia Ling Low ; Mohd Fyzal bin Bahrudin ; Syaza binti Izhar Hisham ; Jia Whey Jacelyn Ong ; Chin Voon Tong
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):33-34
Introduction:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication associated with significant morbidity and healthcare
burden. Despite advances in diabetes care, recurrent
DKA remains common, often reflecting gaps in treatment
adherence and patient education. Identifying predictors
of recurrence is crucial for risk stratification and targeted
intervention.
Methodology:
We conducted a retrospective observational study of all
adult DKA admissions to a tertiary centre between 2001
and 2025. Electronic medical records were reviewed for
demographic data, biochemical parameters, precipitating
factors, and clinical outcomes. DKA was defined using standard biochemical criteria. Recurrent DKA was defined as ≥2 admissions during the study period. Factors associated
with recurrent DKA admissions were analyzed. Patients
under the age of 18 years and those with missing vital
information were excluded.
Results:
A total of 667 DKA admissions, comprising 566 patients,
were identified, of which 101 admissions (15.1%) were
recurrent, involving 65 patients. Among recurrent DKA
episodes, the most common precipitating factors were
infection (64.4%) and insulin omission (62.4%). After
multivariate analyses, patients with type 1 diabetes
mellitus (T1DM) were more likely to develop recurrent
DKA compared to those with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(aOR 4.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.58–6.70; p <0.001).
Insulin omission was strongly associated with recurrent
DKA (aOR 2.29; 95% CI 1.46–3.60; p <0.001). In contrast,
baseline glycated hemoglobin and chronic kidney disease
were not significantly associated with recurrence. Diabetic
counseling during the first DKA admission did not reduce
recurrent DKA. There were no significant differences in
mortality (3.9% vs 6.2%, p = 0.524) or critical care admission
rates (40.6% vs 38.7%, p = 0.718) between recurrent and first
DKA episodes.
Conclusion
Recurrent DKA accounts for a substantial proportion of
DKA admissions and is strongly associated with insulin
omission and T1DM. Our findings suggest that recurrent
DKA is driven predominantly by behavioral and adherencerelated factors, indicating the need for multidisciplinary
interventions beyond standard inpatient counseling.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
;
Retrospective Studies
6.Clinical and Biochemical Characteristics of Adult Diabetic Ketoacidosis: T1DM vs. T2DM
Mohd Fyzal Bahrudin ; Chin Voon Tong ; Raja Nurazni Raja Azwan ; Adilah Zulaikha Abd Latib ; idayatil Alimi Keya Nordin ; Qin Zhi Lee ; Kean Heng Lim ; Jia Ling Low ; Syaza Izhar Hisham ; Liang Wei Wong ; Jia Whey Jacelyn Ong ; Lisa Mohamed Nor ; Zanariah Hussein
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):39-40
Introduction:
The rising incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in type 2
diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a paradigm shift from
its traditional recognition as a hallmark complication of
type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, contemporary
data comparing clinical presentation, precipitating factors,
and outcomes between these two populations remain
limited.
Methodology:
In this retrospective observational study, all adult DKA
admissions with T1DM or T2DM at a tertiary centre between
2001 and 2025 were studied. DKA was defined according
to standard biochemical criteria. Electronic medical records were reviewed to extract demographic data, biochemical
parameters, precipitating factors, management details, and
clinical outcomes of all adult DKA admission in T1DM and
T2DM. Patients aged <18 years or those with incomplete
data were excluded.
Results:
A total of 601 DKA episodes were analyzed, comprising
130 (21.6%) in patients with T1DM and 471 (78.4%) in those
with T2DM. Mean age was 26.9 ± 0.71 years for T1DM and
52.1 ± 0.7 years for T2DM. Gender distribution was balanced
(male 48.3%, female 51.7%). Mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
was 11.3 ± 0.3% in T1DM and 12.1 ± 0.2% in T2DM. Infection
was the most common precipitating factor overall (69.0%),
occurring more frequently in T2DM than in T1DM (74.7%
vs. 56.2%), followed by medication non-adherence (62.4%
vs. 43.8%). Significant differences were observed between
groups in admission pH, bicarbonate (both p <0.001), blood
ketones (p = 0.028), and HbA1c (p = 0.010), whereas anion
gap (p = 0.056) and blood glucose levels (p = 0.755) did not
differ significantly. Clinical outcomes were comparable
with respect to intensive care unit (ICU) admission rates
(40.0% in T1DM vs. 39.0% in T2DM, p = 0.779) and median
resolution time (p = 0.462). However, the median length of
hospital stay was significantly longer in T2DM (8.2 ± 0.32
vs. 5.4 ± 0.4 days; p <0.001). Overall mortality was 6.0%,
with substantially higher mortality in T2DM compared to
T1DM (7.4% vs. 0.8%, p = 0.013).
Conclusion
In this large regional series of adult DKA, most episodes
occurred in T2DM. Despite similar ICU admission rates
and time to resolution, T2DM was associated with more
frequent infection-related precipitants, longer hospital
stays, and higher mortality, underscoring the need for
targeted preventive strategies in this population.
Adult
;
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
;
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
;
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
7.Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Pregnancy: Clinical Triggers, Outcomes, and Missed Opportunities—A Case Series
Jia Whey Jacelyn Ong ; Chin Voon Tong ; Raja Nurazni binti Raja Azwan ; Adilah Zulaikha binti Abd Latib ; Hidayatil Alimi bin Keya Nordin ; Qin Zhi Lee ; Kean Heng Lim ; Jia Ling Low ; Mohd Fyzal bin Bahrudin ; Syaza binti Izhar Hisham ; Liang Wei Wong ; Lisa Mohamed Nor ; Nurain Mohd Noorr
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):48-49
Introduction:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in pregnancy is an uncommon
yet life-threatening emergency, with disproportionate risks
to both mother and fetus. Pregnancy-specific physiological changes predispose patients to rapid metabolic decompensation, often with atypical presentations. Despite
this, local data remain limited. We describe the clinical
profile, precipitating factors, and outcomes of DKA in
pregnancy in a tertiary centre, with emphasis on potentially
preventable triggers.
Cases:
Nine pregnant patients with DKA were identified from a
retrospective review of all cases admitted for DKA from
2002 to 2025. Mean age was 31.67 ± 5.20 years; all were
Malay. The majority had type 2 diabetes mellitus (55.6%),
followed by type 1 diabetes (33.3%) and latent autoimmune
diabetes in adults (11.1%). The mean period of amenorrhea
was 19.67 ± 12.62 weeks.
Infection was the leading precipitant (44.4%), with
additional triggers including insulin omission (22.2%),
hyperemesis gravidarum, preterm labor, steroid exposure,
and perioperative fasting. Most diagnoses were made in
the emergency department (55.6%).
Biochemical parameters reflected significant severity (mean
bicarbonate 7.89 ± 2.98 mmol/L; anion gap 25.00 ± 5.81),
with 88.9% classified as severe DKA. Intensive Care Unit
(ICU) care was required in 77.8% of cases. The majority
(77.8%) were admitted to the ICU unit, with a median time
to resolution of 13.00 ± 12.00 hours (interquartile range
[IQR]), and the median hospital length of stay was 7.00 ±
5.00 days (IQR).
Complications during treatment included hypokalemia
(33.3%), acute kidney injury (22.2%), and hypoglycemia
(11.1%). Rebound DKA occurred in one-third of patients.
All patients were discharged clinically stable. Outcome
data demonstrated pregnancy loss in three cases and one
preterm birth.
Conclusion
DKA in pregnancy remains a severe and resource-intensive
condition. This series highlights missed opportunities in
prevention, with modifiable precipitants such as infection
and insulin omission commonly identified. The high
severity at presentation suggests delays in recognition.
Early detection, optimized metabolic care, and targeted
preventive strategies are crucial to improving maternal
and fetal outcomes.
Female
;
Pregnancy
;
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
8.Differences in deltamethrin resistance and kdr gene mutation in Culex tritaeniorhynchus population in and outside the Yellow Sea wetland
Xiao-er ZHANG ; Zhi-ming WU ; Ye TIAN ; Qian CUI ; Yu-qian JI ; Huan WANG ; Shu-juan YANG ; Yi-chao ZHAO ; Yu WANG ; Hua-yu YIN ; Yu DING ; Guo-jin YAN ; Min-sen ZHAO ; Shou-gang ZHANG ; Bing-dong SONG ; Hong-na CHEN ; Jian GAO ; Wei-fang YANG ; Yu-fu ZHANG ; Hui LIU ; Hong-liang CHU
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(2):101-107
Objective To gain insights into the biological characteristics of different populations of Culex tritaeniorhynchus within and around the Yellow Sea wetland from the perspective of the occurrence of resistance, we investigated the levels of resistance to deltamethrin and kdr gene mutation in the wetland and its peripheral areas. Methods Specimens were collected from Cx. tritaeniorhynchus populations at two monitoring sites in the Rare Bird National Nature Reserve and Tiaozi Ni Wetland Scenic Area, and also from two populations in Yancheng City and the Liuhe District of Nanjing, and the resistance of these mosquitoes to deltamethrin was determined using the CDC biotest bottle method. For each concentration of deltamethrin assessed, a random subset of exposed specimens was selected for amplification of the kdr gene fragment, followed by Sanger sequencing to identify and analyze resistance-associated mutations. Results The LC50 levels of deltamethrin among mosquitoes from the four populations in Luhe, Yancheng, the Rare Bird National Nature Reserve and the Tiaozi Ni Wetland Scenic Area were 2.048 5, 7.798 2, 3.473 3, and 17.695 5 mg/mL, respectively, with corresponding concentrations of deltamethrin ranging from 0.005 to 5.000,0.050 to 50.000,0.050 to 25.000 and 0.050 to 50.000 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the ranges of the KT50 values were 11.76-107.43, 67.05-216.30,29.77-107.43 and 28.40-329.51 min; the 1-h knockdown rates were 34.58%-99.15%, 9.52%-43.80%, 55.09%-73.01%, and 10.09%-68.07%; and the 24-h mortality rates were 12.15%-67.52%,9.52%-79.56%,13.17%-82.21%, and 11.01%-78.99%, respectively. With respect to kdr gene mutation, we assayed a total of 63,70,59, and 57 mosquitoes for the four populations, for which we detected L1014F mutation frequencies of 14.29%, 35.00%, 20.34%, and 31.58%, respectively, with a majority of these mutations being heterozygous for resistance. In addition, five adult mosquitoes were identified has having synonymous mutations at site 1011[i. e. , AAT(asparagine)mutation to AAC(asparagine)]. Conclusions Our findings revealed the clear resistance of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus to deltamethrin in the Yancheng region of the Yellow Sea wetland, and the resistance phenotype and kdr frequency of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in the wetland environment were comparable to those of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in the wetland environment, thereby indicating that the resistance of different populations of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was homogeneous under the pressure of different insecticide selection within and around the wetland. However, the underlying mechanisms need to be further studied.
9.Dual Targeting of TBK1 and JAK-STAT1 Pathways by (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate Suppresses Type I Interferon-driven Inflammation
Liang LI ; Qi-Huan SHENG ; Huan LIU ; Wen-Hao YANG ; Jia-Lin SHI ; Ying-Jie SUN ; Rui JING ; Wei-Hua MAI ; Zhi-Min LI ; Xiao-Li XIE
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(7):1969-1983
ObjectiveType I interferon (IFN-I) signaling is essential for antiviral innate immunity, yet its sustained or excessive activation contributes to the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases and interferonopathies, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and Aicardi-Goutières syndrome. Current strategies targeting this pathway, exemplified by JAK inhibitors, act mainly on downstream signal transduction and provide limited direct control over upstream IFN-I production, while also carrying the risk of broad immunosuppression. Phyllanthus emblica L. has long been used in traditional medicine for inflammatory disorders, but the bioactive constituent responsible for its regulation of IFN-I signaling and the underlying molecular mechanism have not been clearly defined. This study aimed to identify the active anti-inflammatory component of P. emblica and to characterize its mechanism of action on the IFN-I pathway in macrophages. MethodsActive components ofP. emblica and their candidate targets were screened by network pharmacology using the TCMSP and DrugBank databases (oral bioavailability≥30%, drug-likeness≥0.18) and intersected with inflammation-related genes retrieved from public databases. The predicted interaction between EGCG and IFN-I pathway proteins (TBK1, IRF3, STAT1) was evaluated by molecular docking, with BX795 and GSK8612 used as reference TBK1 inhibitors. Mechanistic experiments were performed in THP-1-derived macrophages and primary bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM). Upstream signaling was activated by transfection of the nucleic acid analogs poly(I∶C) and poly(dA∶dT) or by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, whereas downstream signaling was activated by exogenous IFN-β. An siRNA-mediated TREX1 knockdown model was used to mimic endogenous nucleic acid-driven interferonopathy. Expression of IFN-β1 and interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) was measured by RT-qPCR, protein phosphorylation by Western blot, and IFN-β secretion by ELISA. Cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) were used to probe the interactionbetween EGCG and IRF3. ResultsNetwork pharmacology identified (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as a candidate IFN-I-suppressive constituent of P. emblica, with predicted binding to TBK1, IRF3, and STAT1. Molecular docking yielded binding energies of -9.2, -7.2, and -8.2 kcal/mol for TBK1, IRF3, and STAT1, respectively, indicating an affinity for TBK1 comparable to that of the reference inhibitors BX795 (-5.7 kcal/mol) and GSK8612 (-6.4 kcal/mol). EGCG suppressed IFN-β1 and ISG mRNA expression under poly (I∶C), poly (dA∶dT), and LPS stimulation in both THP-1 macrophages and BMDM. At the protein level, EGCG reduced the phosphorylation of TBK1 and IRF3 without affecting the levels of the upstream sensors cGAS and RIG-I, and lowered IFN-β secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. CETSA and DARTS showed that EGCG did not enhance the thermal stability or protease resistance of IRF3, indicating that its effect on IRF3 is indirect. Following IFN-β stimulation, prolonged EGCG treatment reduced STAT1 phosphorylation in a time-dependent manner without an apparent change in IRF9, and partially attenuated ISG transcription; this effect was not monotonicly concentration-dependent, and CXCL10 showed the most consistent suppression. In TREX1-knockdown cells, the elevated mRNA levels of ISG15, ISG56, and CXCL10 were reduced by EGCG. ConclusionEGCG suppresses IFN-I responses by concurrently inhibiting TBK1-IRF3-dependent IFN‑β production and JAK-STAT1-mediated downstream transcription. These in vitro findings provide a mechanistic basis for the anti-inflammatory use of P. emblica in traditional medicine and identify EGCG as a candidate for further evaluation in interferon-driven autoimmune disease models.
10.Exploration of the Pathogenesis and Syndrome-Based Treatment of Functional Constipation Based on the Theory of "Heavy Obstruction and Orifice Blockage"
Haoran SHI ; Kexin LIANG ; Jing ZHI ; Zhirou ZHANG ; Luqing ZHAO
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(15):1659-1663
Based on LI Gao's theory of "heavy obstruction" and "blockage of the nine orifices", this paper proposes the pathological concept of "heavy obstruction and orifice blockage". It is suggested that the core pathogenesis of functional constipation (FC) lies in simultaneous sinking of spleen and lung, together with accumulation and obstruction of dampness and turbidity, resulting in impaired movement of intestinal qi. Within this framework, spleen deficiency with sinking of dampness is considered as the primary pathological mechanism of outlet obstructive constipation (OOC), while sinking of lung qi is regarded as the key mechanism underlying slow transit constipation (STC). When both pathological mechanisms coexist, mixed constipation (MC) develops. Guided by this theory, FC is classified into three patterns for syndrome-based treatment. OOC is treated by promoting bowel movement, descending turbid pathogens, and opening the orifices to restore function, with self-formulated Shengxian Tongqiao Decoction (升陷通窍汤). STC is treated by diffusing lung qi, regulating spleen function, raising sinking qi, and promoting transportation, with self-formulated Xuanfei Yunpi Decoction (宣肺运脾汤). MC is treated by regulating lung and spleen function, simultaneously raising clear qi and descending turbidity, with self-formulated Xuanyun Tongqiao Decoction (宣运通窍汤). In clinical practice, modifications should be made according to accompanying syndromes and individual conditions.


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