1.Research progress on strategies to target intestinal microbiota to improve drug resistance in tumor immunotherapy
Hui-ling LI ; Bi-qing LIU ; Ying-nan FENG ; Xin HU ; Lan ZHANG ; Xian-zhe DONG
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2025;60(2):260-268
A growing body of research points out that gut microbiota plays a key role in tumor immunotherapy. By optimizing the composition of intestinal microbiota, it is possible to effectively improve immunotherapy resistance and enhance its therapeutic effect. This article comprehensively analyzes the mechanism of intestinal microbiota influencing tumor immunotherapy resistance, expounds the current strategies for targeted regulation of intestinal microbiota, such as traditional Chinese medicine and plant components, fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, prebiotics and dietary therapy, and explores the potential mechanisms of these strategies to improve patients' resistance to tumor immunotherapy. At the same time, the article also briefly discusses the prospects and challenges of targeting intestinal microbiota to improve tumor immunotherapy resistance, which provides a reference for related research to help the strategy research of reversing tumor immunotherapy resistance.
2.Structural and Spatial Analysis of The Recognition Relationship Between Influenza A Virus Neuraminidase Antigenic Epitopes and Antibodies
Zheng ZHU ; Zheng-Shan CHEN ; Guan-Ying ZHANG ; Ting FANG ; Pu FAN ; Lei BI ; Yue CUI ; Ze-Ya LI ; Chun-Yi SU ; Xiang-Yang CHI ; Chang-Ming YU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(4):957-969
ObjectiveThis study leverages structural data from antigen-antibody complexes of the influenza A virus neuraminidase (NA) protein to investigate the spatial recognition relationship between the antigenic epitopes and antibody paratopes. MethodsStructural data on NA protein antigen-antibody complexes were comprehensively collected from the SAbDab database, and processed to obtain the amino acid sequences and spatial distribution information on antigenic epitopes and corresponding antibody paratopes. Statistical analysis was conducted on the antibody sequences, frequency of use of genes, amino acid preferences, and the lengths of complementarity determining regions (CDR). Epitope hotspots for antibody binding were analyzed, and the spatial structural similarity of antibody paratopes was calculated and subjected to clustering, which allowed for a comprehensively exploration of the spatial recognition relationship between antigenic epitopes and antibodies. The specificity of antibodies targeting different antigenic epitope clusters was further validated through bio-layer interferometry (BLI) experiments. ResultsThe collected data revealed that the antigen-antibody complex structure data of influenza A virus NA protein in SAbDab database were mainly from H3N2, H7N9 and H1N1 subtypes. The hotspot regions of antigen epitopes were primarily located around the catalytic active site. The antibodies used for structural analysis were primarily derived from human and murine sources. Among murine antibodies, the most frequently used V-J gene combination was IGHV1-12*01/IGHJ2*01, while for human antibodies, the most common combination was IGHV1-69*01/IGHJ6*01. There were significant differences in the lengths and usage preferences of heavy chain CDR amino acids between antibodies that bind within the catalytic active site and those that bind to regions outside the catalytic active site. The results revealed that structurally similar antibodies could recognize the same epitopes, indicating a specific spatial recognition between antibody and antigen epitopes. Structural overlap in the binding regions was observed for antibodies with similar paratope structures, and the competitive binding of these antibodies to the epitope was confirmed through BLI experiments. ConclusionThe antigen epitopes of NA protein mainly ditributed around the catalytic active site and its surrounding loops. Spatial complementarity and electrostatic interactions play crucial roles in the recognition and binding of antibodies to antigenic epitopes in the catalytic region. There existed a spatial recognition relationship between antigens and antibodies that was independent of the uniqueness of antibody sequences, which means that antibodies with different sequences could potentially form similar local spatial structures and recognize the same epitopes.
3.Exercise therapy for the treatment of chronic nonspecific lower back pain through mechanical-chemical coupling
Jiale ZHANG ; Fusen WANG ; Zhenrui QIU ; Xinming FAN ; Jilong ZOU ; Zhenggang BI ; Jiabing SUN
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2025;29(11):2377-2384
BACKGROUND:Currently,exercise therapy is an effective non-pharmacological treatment for low back pain,and exercise therapy can maintain lumbar spine stabilization through mechanical-chemical coupling between bones and muscles,but there is no clear description of the research progress and optimal treatment protocols for exercise therapy to relieve chronic non-specific lower back pain through mechanical-chemical coupling. OBJECTIVE:To review the research progress related to the influence of paravertebral muscles on lumbar spine stabilization during exercise therapy through mechanical-chemical coupling,which in turn relieves chronic non-specific lower back pain,as well as the current optimal treatment protocols of exercise therapy for chronic non-specific lower back pain. METHODS:Literature searches were performed in WanFang database,CNKI,VIP,Web of Science,and PubMed database,with search terms of"chronic non-specific low back pain,lumbar spine stabilization,paravertebral muscles,exercise therapy"in Chinese and English.Relevant literature published from database inception to January 2024 was searched and 93 articles were included for final summarization. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Exercise therapy can act on the paravertebral muscles and bones through appropriate mechanical stimulation and produce corresponding changes.Exercise therapy is an important intervention for chronic non-specific lower back pain as it improves the quality of the paravertebral muscles,primarily through mechanical-chemical coupling,and thus maintains lumbar spine stabilization for better relief of chronic non-specific lower back pain.However,there are no clear reports on the exact effective protocols for exercise therapy to treat chronic non-specific lower back pain through lumbar spine stabilization.The development of an individualized exercise program is particularly important for the treatment and prognosis of chronic non-specific low back pain.Muscle mass and bone mass of the same individual are closely related,and imaging assessment of paravertebral muscle mass and quantity is important for disease detection and intervention.
4.Treatment Strategy of Leukopenia After Chemotherapy with Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Generation and Transmission of Defense Qi
Sheng BI ; Yinwen WU ; Liling LI ; Weina ZHANG ; Jinchang HUANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2024;65(1):113-120
By analysing the similarity between defense qi and leukocytes in terms of function, site of action, and circadian rhythm, it is proposed that in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the pathogenesis of leukopenia is defense qi deficiency. By analyzing the relevant discussions on the generation and transmission of defense qi in TCM classics, it is believed that the original qi in lower jiao (焦) is the source of defense qi, while the water and grain qi in middle jiao enriches defense qi, and the upper jiao transmits and distributes defense qi to the whole body. Therefore, when treating leukopenia after chemotherapy with TCM, Guilu Erxian Gelatin (龟鹿二仙胶) and Yougui Pill (右归丸) are often used to tonify the kidney and supplement essence, and moxibustion at Guanyuan (CV 4) and Qihai (CV 6) is usually accompanied to replenish the original qi in lower jiao and enrich the source of defense qi. Guipi Decoction (归脾汤), Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (补中益气汤), Shenling Baizhu Powder (参苓白术散), and Sijunzi Decoction (四君子汤) are often suggested to strengthen spleen and replenish qi, in combination with moxibustion at Zhongwan (CV 12) and Zusanli (ST 36) to transport the spleen and stomach in the middle jiao to enrich the defense qi. Modified Guizhi Decoction (桂枝汤) to harmonize nutrient and defensive aspects is often used, and moxibustion at Dazhui (GV 14) and Feishu (BL 13) or scraping is added to dredge the striae and interstice in the upper jiao and promote transmission and dissemination of the defense qi. Considering the whole process of generation and distribution of defense qi, it is suggested to choose the most appropriate treatment modality flexibly, and combine internal treatment with external treatment, in order to provide ideas for the treatment of leukopenia in tumour patients.
5.Review of evaluation and influencing factors of oral drug absorption fraction
Ping ZHANG ; Fu-lin BI ; Jin YANG
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2024;59(1):84-93
Fraction absorbed (Fa) is an important parameter to describe the absorption level of oral drugs, and an important basis for the development and optimization of the formulation process. Because it is easily confused with the concept of absolute bioavailability, it has not received enough attention from the industry. There are many complex factors affecting Fa. There are three time-related factors that directly affect the extent of Fa: the release time, the absorption time, and the residence time. The relationship between these three time-related factors determines the extent of Fa. Generally, we are more concerned about the apparent factors that affect the extent of Fa, including independent variables and covariates; The independent variables include administered dose, route, dosage form, etc. The covariates are divided into internal and external factors, and external factors include food factors, drug interactions,
6.Overview of epigenetic degraders based on PROTAC, molecular glue, and hydrophobic tagging technologies.
Xiaopeng PENG ; Zhihao HU ; Limei ZENG ; Meizhu ZHANG ; Congcong XU ; Benyan LU ; Chengpeng TAO ; Weiming CHEN ; Wen HOU ; Kui CHENG ; Huichang BI ; Wanyi PAN ; Jianjun CHEN
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 2024;14(2):533-578
Epigenetic pathways play a critical role in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of cancer. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in the development of targeted epigenetic modulators (e.g., inhibitors). However, epigenetic inhibitors have faced multiple challenges, including limited clinical efficacy, toxicities, lack of subtype selectivity, and drug resistance. As a result, the design of new epigenetic modulators (e.g., degraders) such as PROTACs, molecular glue, and hydrophobic tagging (HyT) degraders has garnered significant attention from both academia and pharmaceutical industry, and numerous epigenetic degraders have been discovered in the past decade. In this review, we aim to provide an in-depth illustration of new degrading strategies (2017-2023) targeting epigenetic proteins for cancer therapy, focusing on the rational design, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical status, and crystal structure information of these degraders. Importantly, we also provide deep insights into the potential challenges and corresponding remedies of this approach to drug design and development. Overall, we hope this review will offer a better mechanistic understanding and serve as a useful guide for the development of emerging epigenetic-targeting degraders.
7.Effect of Baihe Yuzi Prescription on CFTR, AQP, and ZIP Ion Channels and Oxidative Stress in Epididymis of Oligoasthenozoospermia Rats
Guangjian WANG ; Jiajie BI ; Tianyi ZHANG ; Jing MA ; Shusong WANG ; Bo LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2024;30(7):140-146
ObjectiveTo observe the effects of Baihe Yuzi prescription (BYP) on the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), aquaporin (AQP), zinc/iron-regulated transporter-like protein (ZIP) and local oxidative stress in epididymis of oligoasthenozoospermia (OAS) rats, and to explore the mechanism of its intervention in OAS. MethodAfter 35 rats were acclimatized for 1 week, 7 rats were randomly selected as the normal group, and the remaining 28 rats were given tripterygium glycosides (TG) 30 mg·kg-1. After 4 weeks of modeling, they were randomly divided into 4 groups: model group, BYP low-dose group (LBYP), BYP high-dose group (HBYP) and levocarnitine group, with 7 rats in each group. The rats in the normal group and model group were given normal saline at the same dosage. The levocarnitine group rats were given L-carnitine oral liquid (100 mg·kg-1) by gavage. The LBYP group rats were given BYP 6.3 g·kg-1, and the HBYP group rats were given BYP 12.6 g·kg-1 by gavage once a day for consecutive 4 weeks. After the end of the intervention, sperm count and motility of all rats were detected, the histopathological structure of epididymis was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the expressions of CFTR, AQP9, AQP3, ZIP8, ZIP12 and other proteins were detected by Western blot. The contents of α-glycosidase (α-GC), sialic acid (SA), carnitine, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Total zinc content was measured using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Free zinc ion content was detected by zinc ion probes. ResultCompared with those in the normal group, the sperm count and motility of rats were decreased and the epididymal structure was disordered in the model group. The contents of α-GC and carnitine were decreased in epididymis (P<0.05). MDA levels were increased, while SOD, GSH-Px and zinc levels were decreased (P<0.05). The expressions of CFTR and ZIP12 in the head and cauda of the epididymis were down-regulated, and AQP3 expression was up-regulated. The expression of ZIP8 in the cauda epididymis was up-regulated (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, BYP can significantly improve the sperm count and motility, the epididymal structure of OAS rats and the levels of α-GC and carnitine (P<0.05). The expressions of CFTR and ZIP12 in the head and cauda of the epididymis were up-regulated, while the expressions of ZIP8 in the cauda epididymis and AQP3 in the head of the epididymis were decreased (P<0.05). The SOD and GSH-Px levels and total zinc content in epididymis were increased, and the MDA levels were decreased (P<0.05). ConclusionBYP may improve the sperm quality and repair epididymal tissue structure and function of OAS rats, by regulating the expressions of CFTR, AQP3, and ZIP12 ion channels and local antioxidant mechanism.
8.Effective Ingredients of Chinese Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Osteoarthritis by Regulating Oxidative Stress: A Review
Shuang ZHANG ; Yingyan BI ; Xiaoting LIU ; Yusuo GONG ; Xuerui LIU ; Baohua YUAN ; Chenglong LU ; Xufan CHEN ; Ying WANG ; Jiaru GUANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2024;30(11):282-289
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease with a rising incidence rate year by year. Treatment often relies on analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can lead to gastrointestinal damage with long-term use and the recurrence of symptoms. Chinese medicine has a long history of preventing and treating OA, with widespread application and fewer side effects. It offers unique advantages such as a broad treatment scope, multiple targets, and pathways. The effective components of Chinese medicine can reduce the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS), relieve oxidative stress (OS) damage, and increase the antioxidant capacity of the body by interfering with the expression of biomarkers of OS response such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Through the modulation of signaling pathways such as nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), and osteoprotegerin (OPG), they downregulated the expression of inflammatory factors such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), thereby effectively relieving local joint inflammation, protecting chondrocytes and bone tissue, inhibiting chondrocyte apoptosis, and further alleviating the progression of OA. Currently, there are still certain limitations in the medical research status and development trends of OA, necessitating the continued advancement of traditional Chinese medicine. This paper reviewed the literature on the regulation of OS response by effective components of Chinese medicine for the prevention and treatment of OA, providing new directions and ideas for future research.
9.Optimization of alcohol precipitation process for Quhan Zhufeng Granules by overall desirability and central composite design
Shifu ZHENG ; Zhirui ZHANG ; Yingyan BI ; Jiwen LI ; Xixiang LI
International Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2024;46(4):492-497
Objective:To optimize the alcohol precipitation process of Quhan Zhufeng Granules.Methods:Taking the volume fraction of ethanol, the relative density of the concentrated solution and the standing time as the investigation factors, the Z value of the total evaluation of gentiopicrin content, oleanolic acid content and dry paste yield of gentiana macrophylla as the evaluation indexes, the star-point design-response surface method was used to optimize the alcohol precipitation process.Results:The optimal the alcohol precipitation process of Quhan Zhufeng Granules: concentration relative density 1.08 g/ml (90-95 ℃), alcohol precipitation at the end of volume fraction of 62% ethanol, standing for 16 h.Conclusion:The alcohol precipitation process using overall desirability and central composite design is stable and feasible, and has good predictability, which can provide experimental basis for further scale production.
10.Repetitive magnetic stimulation of S3 nerve root and M1 area for treating urinary retention after spinal cord injury
Zihan XU ; Yunfeng BI ; Jiang LI ; Zongliang ZHANG ; Chen SONG ; Jie DONG ; Dong LIU
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2024;28(11):1719-1723
BACKGROUND:Repetitive magnetic stimulation of either S3 nerve root or M1 area can improve the urination function of patients with urinary retention after spinal cord injury,but there are few reports on the repetitive magnetic stimulation of both sites in patients with urinary retention after spinal cord injury. OBJECTIVE:To observe the effect of repetitive magnetic stimulation of both S3 nerve root and M1 area on urinary retention after spinal cord injury. METHODS:Forty patients with urinary retention after spinal cord injury were enrolled and were randomly divided into two groups(n=20 per group):group A(repetitive magnetic stimulation in both S3 nerve root and M1 area)and group B(repetitive magnetic stimulation in the S3 nerve root and sham stimulation in the M1 area).Patients in both groups were given 4-week repetitive magnetic stimulation based on conventional bladder function intervention.The stimulation time and duration of treatment were same in both groups,with a treatment time of 21 minutes daily,5 days per week,for 4 weeks in total.The urination diary and urodynamics were compared between two groups. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:Before treatment,there were no statistically significant differences in the average daily catheterization times,average daily catheterization volume,average single urinary volume,urinary storage period(maximum bladder volume,bladder pressure),and urinary voiding period(detrusor pressure,residual urine volume)between the two groups(P>0.05).After 4 weeks of treatment,the average daily catheterization times in group A were lower than before treatment(P<0.05),while the average single urination volume in group A was higher than that before treatment(P<0.05);and the average daily catheterization times in group B were lower than before treatment(P<0.05).After 4 weeks of treatment,the average daily catheterization times in group A were lower than those in group B,and the average single urination volume was higher than that in group B(P<0.05).After 4 weeks of treatment,the maximum bladder volume and detrusor pressure during urination were increased in both groups compared with before treatment(P<0.05),while the bladder pressure and residual urine volume at the maximum volume of the two groups were decreased compared with those before treatment(P<0.05).Compared with group B,the maximum bladder volume and detrusor pressure during urination were higher in group A,while the bladder pressure and residual urine volume at maximum volume were lower in group A(P<0.05).To conclude,two treatments can both improve the urination function of patients with urinary retention after spinal cord injury,and repetitive magnetic stimulation of both S3 nerve root and M1 area is superior to repetitive magnetic stimulation of S3 nerve root alone.Repetitive magnetic stimulation of both S3 nerve root and M1 area can effectively improve the urination function of patients with urinary retention after spinal cord injury.

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