1.In situ Analytical Techniques for Membrane Protein Interactions
Zi-Yuan KANG ; Tong YU ; Chao LI ; Xue-Hua ZHANG ; Jun-Hui GUO ; Qi-Chang LI ; Jing-Xing GUO ; Hao XIE
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1206-1218
Membrane proteins are integral components of cellular membranes, accounting for approximately 30% of the mammalian proteome and serving as targets for 60% of FDA-approved drugs. They are critical to both physiological functions and disease mechanisms. Their functional protein-protein interactions form the basis for many physiological processes, such as signal transduction, material transport, and cell communication. Membrane protein interactions are characterized by membrane environment dependence, spatial asymmetry, weak interaction strength, high dynamics, and a variety of interaction sites. Therefore, in situ analysis is essential for revealing the structural basis and kinetics of these proteins. This paper introduces currently available in situ analytical techniques for studying membrane protein interactions and evaluates the characteristics of each. These techniques are divided into two categories: label-based techniques (e.g., co-immunoprecipitation, proximity ligation assay, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, resonance energy transfer, and proximity labeling) and label-free techniques (e.g., cryo-electron tomography, in situ cross-linking mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, nuclear magnetic resonance, and structure prediction tools). Each technique is critically assessed in terms of its historical development, strengths, and limitations. Based on the authors’ relevant research, the paper further discusses the key issues and trends in the application of these techniques, providing valuable references for the field of membrane protein research. Label-based techniques rely on molecular tags or antibodies to detect proximity or interactions, offering high specificity and adaptability for dynamic studies. For instance, proximity ligation assay combines the specificity of antibodies with the sensitivity of PCR amplification, while proximity labeling enables spatial mapping of interactomes. Conversely, label-free techniques, such as cryo-electron tomography, provide near-native structural insights, and Raman spectroscopy directly probes molecular interactions without perturbing the membrane environment. Despite advancements, these methods face several universal challenges: (1) indirect detection, relying on proximity or tagged proxies rather than direct interaction measurement; (2) limited capacity for continuous dynamic monitoring in live cells; and (3) potential artificial influences introduced by labeling or sample preparation, which may alter native conformations. Emerging trends emphasize the multimodal integration of complementary techniques to overcome individual limitations. For example, combining in situ cross-linking mass spectrometry with proximity labeling enhances both spatial resolution and interaction coverage, enabling high-throughput subcellular interactome mapping. Similarly, coupling fluorescence resonance energy transfer with nuclear magnetic resonance and artificial intelligence (AI) simulations integrates dynamic structural data, atomic-level details, and predictive modeling for holistic insights. Advances in AI, exemplified by AlphaFold’s ability to predict interaction interfaces, further augment experimental data, accelerating structure-function analyses. Future developments in cryo-electron microscopy, super-resolution imaging, and machine learning are poised to refine spatiotemporal resolution and scalability. In conclusion, in situ analysis of membrane protein interactions remains indispensable for deciphering their roles in health and disease. While current technologies have significantly advanced our understanding, persistent gaps highlight the need for innovative, integrative approaches. By synergizing experimental and computational tools, researchers can achieve multiscale, real-time, and perturbation-free analyses, ultimately unraveling the dynamic complexity of membrane protein networks and driving therapeutic discovery.
2.The Near-infrared II Emission of Gold Clusters and Their Applications in Biomedicine
Zhen-Hua LI ; Hui-Zhen MA ; Hao WANG ; Chang-Long LIU ; Xiao-Dong ZHANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(8):2068-2086
Optical imaging is highly valued for its superior temporal and spatial resolution. This is particularly important in near-infrared II (NIR-II, 1 000-3 000 nm) imaging, which offers advantages such as reduced tissue absorption, minimal scattering, and low autofluorescence. These characteristics make NIR-II imaging especially suitable for deep tissue visualization, where high contrast and minimal background interference are critical for accurate diagnosis and monitoring. Currently, inorganic fluorescent probes—such as carbon nanotubes, rare earth nanoparticles, and quantum dots—offer high brightness and stability. However, they are hindered by ambiguous structures, larger sizes, and potential accumulation toxicity in vivo. In contrast, organic fluorescent probes, including small molecules and polymers, demonstrate higher biocompatibility but are limited by shorter emission wavelengths, lower quantum yields, and reduced stability. Recently, gold clusters have emerged as a promising class of nanomaterials with potential applications in biocatalysis, fluorescence sensing, biological imaging, and more. Water-soluble gold clusters are particularly attractive as fluorescent probes due to their remarkable optical properties, including strong photoluminescence, large Stokes shifts, and excellent photostability. Furthermore, their outstanding biocompatibility—attributed to good aqueous stability, ultra-small hydrodynamic size, and high renal clearance efficiency—makes them especially suitable for biomedical applications. Gold clusters hold significant potential for NIR-II fluorescence imaging. Atomic-precision gold clusters, typically composed of tens to hundreds of gold atoms and measuring only a few nanometers in diameter, possess well-defined three-dimensional structures and clear spatial coordination. This atomic-level precision enables fine-tuned structural regulation, further enhancing their fluorescence properties. Variations in cluster size, surface ligands, and alloying elements can result in distinct physicochemical characteristics. The incorporation of different atoms can modulate the atomic and electronic structures of gold clusters, while diverse ligands can influence surface polarity and steric hindrance. As such, strategies like alloying and ligand engineering are effective in enhancing both fluorescence and catalytic performance, thereby meeting a broader range of clinical needs. In recent years, gold clusters have attracted growing attention in the biomedical field. Their application in NIR-II imaging has led to significant progress in vascular, organ, and tumor imaging. The resulting high-resolution, high signal-to-noise imaging provides powerful tools for clinical diagnostics. Moreover, biologically active gold clusters can aid in drug delivery and disease diagnosis and treatment, offering new opportunities for clinical therapeutics. Despite the notable achievements in fundamental research and clinical translation, further studies are required to address challenges related to the standardized synthesis and complex metabolic behavior of gold clusters. Resolving these issues will help accelerate their clinical adoption and broaden their biomedical applications.
3.Inhibition of S100A4 expression in omalizumab on IgE induced mast cell activation
Lei YANG ; Yan-Yan LI ; Chang-E FAN ; Hui-Jiao CAI ; Hua ZHEN
The Chinese Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 2024;40(17):2513-2517
Objective To investigate the effect of inhibiting S100A4 expression to enhance the dissociation of mast cells pre-bound by immunoglobulin E(IgE)by omalizumab(OmAb).Methods LAD2 cells were randomly divided into normal group,IgE group(IgE induction),OmAb-L group(0.5 mg·mL-1 OmAb),OmAb-M group(1.0 mg·mL-1 OmAb),OmAb-H group(2.0 mg·mL-1 OmAb),OmAb-h+si-S100A4 group(transfected with si-S100A4+2.0 mg·mL-1 OmAb).IgE levels on cell surface were detected by flow cytometry;degranulation was measured by β-amino-hexosidase release assay;the levels of histamine and leukotriene C4 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA);the expression of related proteins was detected by Western blot.Results After 6 h treatment,IgE levels in normal group,IgE group,OmAb-H group and OmAb-H+si-S100A4 group were(4.13±0.52)%,(100.00±6.20)%,(60.12±3.41)%and(54.04±5.60)%,respectively;β-amino-hexosidase release rates were(12.59±1.35),(69.27±6.43),(45.39±2.14)and(37.80±2.77)%,respectively;histamine levels were(2.43±0.16),(8.57±0.41),(4.91±0.24),(3.01±0.23)ng·mL-1,respectively;the C4 levels of leukotriene were(198.85±18.91),(423.56±1.25),(273.68±17.11)and(242.79±12.44)pg·mL-1,respectively;relative phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinases(p-ERK)expression levels were 0.31±0.04,0.91±0.12,0.55±0.04 and 0.35±0.02,respectively.The above indexes in IgE group were compared with those in normal group,the above indexes of OmAb-H group were compared with IgE group,the above indexes of OmAb-H+si-S100A4 group were respectively compared with those of OmAb-H group,the differences were statistically significant(all P<0.05).Conclusion Inhibition of S100A4 can enhance the dissociation effect of OmAb on mast cells and IgE,and further block the release of allergic mediators.
4.Relationship between Phenotypic Changes of Dendritic Cell Subsets and the Onset of Plateau Phase during Intermittent Interferon Therapy in Patients with CHB
Liu YANG ; Yu Shi WANG ; Ting Ting JIANG ; Wen DENG ; Min CHANG ; Ling Shu WU ; Hua Wei CAO ; Yao LU ; Ge SHEN ; Yu Ru LIU ; Jiao Yuan GAO ; Jiao Meng XU ; Ping Lei HU ; Lu ZHANG ; Yao XIE ; Hui Ming LI
Biomedical and Environmental Sciences 2024;37(3):303-314
Objective This study aimed to evaluate whether the onset of the plateau phase of slow hepatitis B surface antigen decline in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with intermittent interferon therapy is related to the frequency of dendritic cell subsets and expression of the costimulatory molecules CD40,CD80,CD83,and CD86. Method This was a cross-sectional study in which patients were divided into a natural history group(namely NH group),a long-term oral nucleoside analogs treatment group(namely NA group),and a plateau-arriving group(namely P group).The percentage of plasmacytoid dendritic cell and myeloid dendritic cell subsets in peripheral blood lymphocytes and monocytes and the mean fluorescence intensity of their surface costimulatory molecules were detected using a flow cytometer. Results In total,143 patients were enrolled(NH group,n = 49;NA group,n = 47;P group,n = 47).The results demonstrated that CD141/CD1c double negative myeloid dendritic cell(DNmDC)/lymphocytes and monocytes(%)in P group(0.041[0.024,0.069])was significantly lower than that in NH group(0.270[0.135,0.407])and NA group(0.273[0.150,0.443]),and CD86 mean fluorescence intensity of DNmDCs in P group(1832.0[1484.0,2793.0])was significantly lower than that in NH group(4316.0[2958.0,5169.0])and NA group(3299.0[2534.0,4371.0]),Adjusted P all<0.001. Conclusion Reduced DNmDCs and impaired maturation may be associated with the onset of the plateau phase during intermittent interferon therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B.
5.Association of Cytokines with Clinical Indicators in Patients with Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Hua Wei CAO ; Ting Ting JIANG ; Ge SHEN ; Wen DENG ; Yu Shi WANG ; Yu Zi ZHANG ; Xin Xin LI ; Yao LU ; Lu ZHANG ; Yu Ru LIU ; Min CHANG ; Ling Shu WU ; Jiao Yuan GAO ; Xiao Hong HAO ; Xue Xiao CHEN ; Ping Lei HU ; Jiao Meng XU ; Wei YI ; Yao XIE ; Hui Ming LI
Biomedical and Environmental Sciences 2024;37(5):494-502
Objective To explore characteristics of clinical parameters and cytokines in patients with drug-induced liver injury(DILI)caused by different drugs and their correlation with clinical indicators. Method The study was conducted on patients who were up to Review of Uncertainties in Confidence Assessment for Medical Tests(RUCAM)scoring criteria and clinically diagnosed with DILI.Based on Chinese herbal medicine,cardiovascular drugs,non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs),anti-infective drugs,and other drugs,patients were divided into five groups.Cytokines were measured by Luminex technology.Baseline characteristics of clinical biochemical indicators and cytokines in DILI patients and their correlation were analyzed. Results 73 patients were enrolled.Age among five groups was statistically different(P=0.032).Alanine aminotransferase(ALT)(P=0.033)and aspartate aminotransferase(AST)(P=0.007)in NSAIDs group were higher than those in chinese herbal medicine group.Interleukin-6(IL-6)and tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α)in patients with Chinese herbal medicine(IL-6:P<0.001;TNF-α:P<0.001)and cardiovascular medicine(IL-6:P=0.020;TNF-α:P=0.001)were lower than those in NSAIDs group.There was a positive correlation between ALT(r=0.697,P=0.025),AST(r=0.721,P=0.019),and IL-6 in NSAIDs group. Conclusion Older age may be more prone to DILI.Patients with NSAIDs have more severe liver damage in early stages of DILI,TNF-α and IL-6 may partake the inflammatory process of DILI.
6.Comb flap technique and stepwise design concept in plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery
Wei GAO ; Xiaoxi LIN ; Yun ZOU ; Yajing QIU ; Hui CHEN ; Li HU ; Lei CHANG ; Yunbo JIN ; Chen HUA
Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2024;40(3):286-292
Objective:To explore the clinical outcome and applicability of the comb flap technique and stepwise design concept in plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.Methods:The clinical data of patients who underwent plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery with the comb flap technique in Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from January 2018 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The application of the comb flap technique follows the concept of stepwise design, that was, preoperative and intraoperative design and adjustment were carried out step by step and in sequence, and the design was combined with the surgical procedure. Its main operations included: an incision was designed along the edge of the target area, the tissue flap was widely separated at the base of the target area. The tissue flap was cut in sequence perpendicular to the cutting edge and temporarily sutured and fixed, the edge was cut and fixed. During the operation, the tension of the incision and the local appearance could be adjusted. The incisal edge was finely sutured, and the temporary suture was finally removed. The healing of surgical incision and complications were observed after the operation, and the facial recovery and surgical effect were followed up.Results:Six patients were enrolled, including 3 males and 3 females, aged from 2 to 58 years. One patient underwent upper eyelid tightening and lower eyelid blepharoplasty through subeyebrow incision. One patient underwent middle and lower face rhytidectomy. One patient underwent thick lip thinning and right facial liposuction. One patient underwent facial congenital melanocytic nevi resection. One patient underwent eyebrow congenital melanocytic nevus resection. One patient underwent facial flap repair. All patients had primary healing of incision, and no surgery-related complications occurred. All patients were followed up for 3 to 18 months, and all patients were satisfied with the surgical effect.Conclusion:The application of comb flap technique and stepwise design concept in plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery can delicately adjust the alignment of the incision margin, make the tension evenly distributed, and reduce the risk of scar formation and deformity after the operation. It has a wide range of clinical applications and good applicability.
7.Study on the Substance Benchmark Characteristic Chromatogram and Multi-Component Content Determination of Classical Formula Fuzi Decoction
Zhen-Zhen PAN ; Yu-Jie XU ; Jia-Hui LIU ; Hui-Min YE ; Zhen-Hua WANG ; Chang-Qing LI
Journal of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2024;41(9):2442-2451
Objective To establish a high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)characteristic chromatogram and multi-component content determination method for the substance benchmark of Fuzi Decoction.Methods The characteristic chromatogram method of Fuzi Decoction substance benchmark was established,and the Similarity Evaluation System of Chromatographic Fingerprint of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2012 Edition)was used to analyze the characteristic chromatograms of 15 batches of Fuzi Decoction substance benchmark samples.The HPLC content determination methods of 1 1 components in the Fuzi Decoction substance benchmark samples were established respectively,and the dry extract rate of 15 batches of Fuzi Decoction substance benchmark samples was determined.Results The similarity of characteristic chromatograms of 15 batches of Fuzi Decoction substance benchmark samples was greater than 0.9,and 12 common peaks were selected and eight of them were identified.The results showed that the contents of benzoylmesaconine,benzoylhypaconine,atractylenolide Ⅲ,ginsenoside Rg1,ginsenoside Re,ginsenoside Rb1,gallic acid,albiflorin,paeoniflorin,1,2,3,4,6-penta-galloyl glucose and benzoyl paeoniflorin were 0.050 3-0.191 1,0.026 7-0.047 0,0.043 0-0.127 6,0.554 6-1.006 8,0.568 7-0.979 5,0.929 9-1.726 1,1.058 9-2.118 4,1.430 3-4.965 5,6.882 9-9.511 1,0.056 1-0.262 5,0.160 6-0.369 0 mg/g,respectively.The average dry extract rate of the 15 batches of Fuzi Decoction substance benchmark samples was 29.54%.Conclusion The established characteristic chromatogram and multi-index content determination method are accurate and stable,which provides a basis for the quality control of the substance benchmark and related preparations of Fuzi Decoction.
8.Comb flap technique and stepwise design concept in plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery
Wei GAO ; Xiaoxi LIN ; Yun ZOU ; Yajing QIU ; Hui CHEN ; Li HU ; Lei CHANG ; Yunbo JIN ; Chen HUA
Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2024;40(3):286-292
Objective:To explore the clinical outcome and applicability of the comb flap technique and stepwise design concept in plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.Methods:The clinical data of patients who underwent plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery with the comb flap technique in Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from January 2018 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The application of the comb flap technique follows the concept of stepwise design, that was, preoperative and intraoperative design and adjustment were carried out step by step and in sequence, and the design was combined with the surgical procedure. Its main operations included: an incision was designed along the edge of the target area, the tissue flap was widely separated at the base of the target area. The tissue flap was cut in sequence perpendicular to the cutting edge and temporarily sutured and fixed, the edge was cut and fixed. During the operation, the tension of the incision and the local appearance could be adjusted. The incisal edge was finely sutured, and the temporary suture was finally removed. The healing of surgical incision and complications were observed after the operation, and the facial recovery and surgical effect were followed up.Results:Six patients were enrolled, including 3 males and 3 females, aged from 2 to 58 years. One patient underwent upper eyelid tightening and lower eyelid blepharoplasty through subeyebrow incision. One patient underwent middle and lower face rhytidectomy. One patient underwent thick lip thinning and right facial liposuction. One patient underwent facial congenital melanocytic nevi resection. One patient underwent eyebrow congenital melanocytic nevus resection. One patient underwent facial flap repair. All patients had primary healing of incision, and no surgery-related complications occurred. All patients were followed up for 3 to 18 months, and all patients were satisfied with the surgical effect.Conclusion:The application of comb flap technique and stepwise design concept in plastic aesthetic and reconstructive surgery can delicately adjust the alignment of the incision margin, make the tension evenly distributed, and reduce the risk of scar formation and deformity after the operation. It has a wide range of clinical applications and good applicability.
9.Genetic Variation of SH2B3 in Patients with Myeloid Neoplasms
Qiang MA ; Rong-Hua HU ; Hong ZHAO ; Xiao-Xi LAN ; Yi-Xian GUO ; Xiao-Li CHANG ; Wan-Ling SUN ; Li SU ; Wu-Han HUI
Journal of Experimental Hematology 2024;32(4):1186-1190
Objective:To observe the genetic variation of SH2B3 in patients with myeloid neoplasms.Methods:The results of targeted DNA sequencing associated with myeloid neoplasms in the Department of Hematology,Xuanwu Hospital,Capital Medical University from November 2017 to November 2022 were retrospectively analyzed,and the patients with SH2B3 gene mutations were identified.The demographic and clinical data of these patients were collected,and characteristics of SH2B3 gene mutation,co-mutated genes and their correlations with diseases were analyzed.Results:The sequencing results were obtained from 1 005 patients,in which 19 patients were detected with SH2B3 gene mutation,including 18 missense mutations(94.74%),1 nonsense mutation(5.26%),and 10 patients with co-mutated genes(52.63%).Variant allele frequency(VAF)ranged from 0.03 to 0.66.The highest frequency mutation was p.Ile568Thr(5/19,26.32%),with an average VAF of 0.49,involving 1 case of MDS/MPN-RS(with SF3B1 mutation),1 case of MDS-U(with SF3B1 mutation),1 case of aplastic anemia with PNH clone(with PIGA and KMT2A mutations),2 cases of MDS-MLD(1 case with SETBP1 mutation).The other mutations included p.Ala567Thr in 2 cases(10.53%),p.Arg566Trp,p.Glu533Lys,p.Met437Arg,p.Arg425Cys,p.Glu314Lys,p.Arg308*,p.Gln294Glu,p.Arg282Gln,p.Arg175Gln,p.Gly86Cys,p.His55Asn and p.Gln54Pro in 1 case each.Conclusion:A wide distribution of genetic mutation sites and low recurrence of SH2B3 is observed in myeloid neoplasms,among of them,p.Ile568Thr mutation is detected with a higher incidence and often coexists with characteristic mutations of other diseases.
10.Factors Associated With Coronary Heart Disease Among Adult Residents in Jinjiang District,Chengdu City.
Qin-Xin LIU ; Chang SUN ; Lin-Hua LI ; Yu-Ju WU ; Yi-Shan ZHOU ; Jia-Hui MA ; Yan DU ; Lu LIU ; Huan ZHOU
Acta Academiae Medicinae Sinicae 2023;45(4):556-562
Objective To analyze the prevalence of coronary heart disease among community residents over 18 years old in Jinjiang district of Chengdu city,Sichuan province,and explore its associated factors,so as to provide a reference for the prevention and control of coronary heart disease in communities.Methods From October 15 to November 10 in 2021,a total of 5220 adult residents from 33 communities in Jinjiang were selected by multi-stage stratified random sampling for face-to-face questionnaire survey,physical examination,and laboratory blood test.Binary Logistic regression was employed to predict the factors associated with coronary heart disease among adult residents in Jinjiang.Results The crude and standard prevalence rates of coronary heart disease among 5220 adult residents were 3.39% and 2.11%,respectively.Logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR=1.068,95%CI=1.051-1.086,P<0.001),depressive symptoms (OR=1.639,95%CI=1.037-2.591,P=0.034),regular exercise (OR=0.584,95%CI=0.378-0.902,P=0.015),elevated blood pressure (OR=3.529,95%CI=2.344-5.312,P<0.001),dyslipidemia (OR=2.152,95%CI=1.291-3.587,P=0.003),and core knowledge score of chronic diseases (OR=1.144,95%CI=1.066-1.228,P<0.001) were associated with coronary heart disease among adult residents in Jinjiang.Conclusions The prevalence of coronary heart disease is high among adult residents in Jinjiang district of Chengdu.The urban residents who are older,have depressive symptoms,lack of exercise,elevated blood pressure,dyslipidemia,and score higher on core knowledge of chronic diseases are prone to coronary heart disease.
Adult
;
Humans
;
Adolescent
;
Risk Factors
;
Coronary Disease/epidemiology*
;
Hypertension
;
Surveys and Questionnaires
;
Dyslipidemias
;
China/epidemiology*
;
Prevalence

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail