1.Preparation of new hydrogels and their synergistic effects of immunochemotherapy
Wen-wen YAN ; Yan-long ZHANG ; Ming-hui CAO ; Zheng-han LIU ; Hong LEI ; Xiang-qian JIA
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2025;60(2):479-487
In recent years, cancer treatment methods and means are becoming more and more diversified, and single treatment methods often have limited efficacy, while the synergistic effect of immunity combined with chemotherapy can inhibit tumor growth more effectively. Based on this, we constructed a sodium alginate hydrogel composite system loaded with chemotherapeutic agents and tumor vaccines (named SA-DOX-NA) with a view to the combined use of chemotherapeutic agents and tumor vaccines. Firstly, the tumor vaccine (named NA) degradable under acidic conditions was constructed by
2.Applications of EEG Biomarkers in The Assessment of Disorders of Consciousness
Zhong-Peng WANG ; Jia LIU ; Long CHEN ; Min-Peng XU ; Dong MING
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(4):899-914
Disorders of consciousness (DOC) are pathological conditions characterized by severely suppressed brain function and the persistent interruption or loss of consciousness. Accurate diagnosis and evaluation of DOC are prerequisites for precise treatment. Traditional assessment methods are primarily based on behavioral scales, which are inherently subjective and rely on observable behaviors. Moreover, traditional methods have a high misdiagnosis rate, particularly in distinguishing minimally conscious state (MCS) from vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (VS/UWS). This diagnostic uncertainty has driven the exploration of objective, reliable, and efficient assessment tools. Among these tools, electroencephalography (EEG) has garnered significant attention for its non-invasive nature, portability, and ability to capture real-time neurodynamics. This paper systematically reviews the application of EEG biomarkers in DOC assessment. These biomarkers are categorized into 3 main types: resting-state EEG features, task-related EEG features, and features derived from transcranial magnetic stimulation-EEG (TMS-EEG). Resting-state EEG biomarkers include features based on spectrum, microstates, nonlinear dynamics, and brain network metrics. These biomarkers provide baseline representations of brain activity in DOC patients. Studies have shown their ability to distinguish different levels of consciousness and predict clinical outcomes. However, because they are not task-specific, they are challenging to directly associate with specific brain functions or cognitive processes. Strengthening the correlation between resting-state EEG features and consciousness-related networks could offer more direct evidence for the pathophysiological mechanisms of DOC. Task-related EEG features include event-related potentials, event-related spectral modulations, and phase-related features. These features reveal the brain’s responses to external stimuli and provide dynamic information about residual cognitive functions, reflecting neurophysiological changes associated with specific cognitive, sensory, or behavioral tasks. Although these biomarkers demonstrate substantial value, their effectiveness rely on patient cooperation and task design. Developing experimental paradigms that are more effective at eliciting specific EEG features or creating composite paradigms capable of simultaneously inducing multiple features may more effectively capture the brain activity characteristics of DOC patients, thereby supporting clinical applications. TMS-EEG is a technique for probing the neurodynamics within thalamocortical networks without involving sensory, motor, or cognitive functions. Parameters such as the perturbational complexity index (PCI) have been proposed as reliable indicators of consciousness, providing objective quantification of cortical dynamics. However, despite its high sensitivity and objectivity compared to traditional EEG methods, TMS-EEG is constrained by physiological artifacts, operational complexity, and variability in stimulation parameters and targets across individuals. Future research should aim to standardize experimental protocols, optimize stimulation parameters, and develop automated analysis techniques to improve the feasibility of TMS-EEG in clinical applications. Our analysis suggests that no single EEG biomarker currently achieves an ideal balance between accuracy, robustness, and generalizability. Progress is constrained by inconsistencies in analysis methods, parameter settings, and experimental conditions. Additionally, the heterogeneity of DOC etiologies and dynamic changes in brain function add to the complexity of assessment. Future research should focus on the standardization of EEG biomarker research, integrating features from resting-state, task-related, and TMS-EEG paradigms to construct multimodal diagnostic models that enhance evaluation efficiency and accuracy. Multimodal data integration (e.g., combining EEG with functional near-infrared spectroscopy) and advancements in source localization algorithms can further improve the spatial precision of biomarkers. Leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to develop intelligent diagnostic tools will accelerate the clinical adoption of EEG biomarkers in DOC diagnosis and prognosis, allowing for more precise evaluations of consciousness states and personalized treatment strategies.
3.Predictive Modeling of Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Following Endovascular Thrombectomy: Insights From the Nationwide TREAT-AIS Registry
Jia-Hung CHEN ; I-Chang SU ; Yueh-Hsun LU ; Yi-Chen HSIEH ; Chih-Hao CHEN ; Chun-Jen LIN ; Yu-Wei CHEN ; Kuan-Hung LIN ; Pi-Shan SUNG ; Chih-Wei TANG ; Hai-Jui CHU ; Chuan-Hsiu FU ; Chao-Liang CHOU ; Cheng-Yu WEI ; Shang-Yih YAN ; Po-Lin CHEN ; Hsu-Ling YEH ; Sheng-Feng SUNG ; Hon-Man LIU ; Ching-Huang LIN ; Meng LEE ; Sung-Chun TANG ; I-Hui LEE ; Lung CHAN ; Li-Ming LIEN ; Hung-Yi CHIOU ; Jiunn-Tay LEE ; Jiann-Shing JENG ;
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(1):85-94
Background:
and Purpose Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) following endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is a severe complication associated with adverse functional outcomes and increased mortality rates. Currently, a reliable predictive model for sICH risk after EVT is lacking.
Methods:
This study used data from patients aged ≥20 years who underwent EVT for anterior circulation stroke from the nationwide Taiwan Registry of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke (TREAT-AIS). A predictive model including factors associated with an increased risk of sICH after EVT was developed to differentiate between patients with and without sICH. This model was compared existing predictive models using nationwide registry data to evaluate its relative performance.
Results:
Of the 2,507 identified patients, 158 developed sICH after EVT. Factors such as diastolic blood pressure, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, platelet count, glucose level, collateral score, and successful reperfusion were associated with the risk of sICH after EVT. The TREAT-AIS score demonstrated acceptable predictive accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]=0.694), with higher scores being associated with an increased risk of sICH (odds ratio=2.01 per score increase, 95% confidence interval=1.64–2.45, P<0.001). The discriminatory capacity of the score was similar in patients with symptom onset beyond 6 hours (AUC=0.705). Compared to existing models, the TREAT-AIS score consistently exhibited superior predictive accuracy, although this difference was marginal.
Conclusions
The TREAT-AIS score outperformed existing models, and demonstrated an acceptable discriminatory capacity for distinguishing patients according to sICH risk levels. However, the differences between models were only marginal. Further research incorporating periprocedural and postprocedural factors is required to improve the predictive accuracy.
4.Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 Gene Mutation May Reduce the Risk of Rupture of Intracranial Aneurysm in Chinese Han Population
Xiheng CHEN ; Siming GUI ; Dachao WEI ; Dingwei DENG ; Yudi TANG ; Jian LV ; Wei YOU ; Jia JIANG ; Jun LIN ; Huijian GE ; Peng LIU ; Yuhua JIANG ; Lixin MA ; Yunci WANG ; Ming LV ; Youxiang LI
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(2):237-249
Background:
and Purpose Ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIA) are associated with a mortality rate of up to 40% in the Chinese population, highlighting the critical need for targeted treatment interventions for at-risk individuals. Although the impact of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) gene mutations on susceptibility to intracranial aneurysms (IA) is well documented, the potential connection between ALDH2 rs671 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and RIA remains unexplored. Given the increased prevalence of ALDH2 gene mutations among Chinese Han individuals, it is clinically relevant to investigate the link between ALDH2 rs671 SNP and IA rupture.
Methods:
A prospective study was conducted on 546 patients diagnosed with IA to investigate the association between ALDH2 rs671 SNP and the risk of IA rupture.
Results:
The ALDH2 rs671 SNP (ALDH2*2) was significantly more prevalent in patients with unruptured IA (UIA) than in those with RIA (32.56% vs. 18.58%, P=0.004). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that people with the ALDH2 mutation (ALDH2*1/*2 and ALDH2*2/*2 gene type) had a significantly reduced odds ratio (OR=0.49; 95% confidence level [CI] 0.27–0.88; P=0.018) for RIAs. Age-specific subgroup analysis indicated that the ALDH2 mutation provided a stronger protective effect in individuals aged 60 years and above with IA compared to those under 60 years old (OR=0.38 vs. OR=0.52, both P<0.05).
Conclusion
The incidence of RIA was significantly higher in individuals with a normal ALDH2 gene (ALDH2*1/*1) than in those with an ALDH2 rs671 SNP (ALDH2*1/*2 or ALDH2*2/*2). ALDH2 rs671 SNP may serve as a protective factor against RIA in the Chinese Han population.
5.Predictive Modeling of Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Following Endovascular Thrombectomy: Insights From the Nationwide TREAT-AIS Registry
Jia-Hung CHEN ; I-Chang SU ; Yueh-Hsun LU ; Yi-Chen HSIEH ; Chih-Hao CHEN ; Chun-Jen LIN ; Yu-Wei CHEN ; Kuan-Hung LIN ; Pi-Shan SUNG ; Chih-Wei TANG ; Hai-Jui CHU ; Chuan-Hsiu FU ; Chao-Liang CHOU ; Cheng-Yu WEI ; Shang-Yih YAN ; Po-Lin CHEN ; Hsu-Ling YEH ; Sheng-Feng SUNG ; Hon-Man LIU ; Ching-Huang LIN ; Meng LEE ; Sung-Chun TANG ; I-Hui LEE ; Lung CHAN ; Li-Ming LIEN ; Hung-Yi CHIOU ; Jiunn-Tay LEE ; Jiann-Shing JENG ;
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(1):85-94
Background:
and Purpose Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) following endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is a severe complication associated with adverse functional outcomes and increased mortality rates. Currently, a reliable predictive model for sICH risk after EVT is lacking.
Methods:
This study used data from patients aged ≥20 years who underwent EVT for anterior circulation stroke from the nationwide Taiwan Registry of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke (TREAT-AIS). A predictive model including factors associated with an increased risk of sICH after EVT was developed to differentiate between patients with and without sICH. This model was compared existing predictive models using nationwide registry data to evaluate its relative performance.
Results:
Of the 2,507 identified patients, 158 developed sICH after EVT. Factors such as diastolic blood pressure, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, platelet count, glucose level, collateral score, and successful reperfusion were associated with the risk of sICH after EVT. The TREAT-AIS score demonstrated acceptable predictive accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]=0.694), with higher scores being associated with an increased risk of sICH (odds ratio=2.01 per score increase, 95% confidence interval=1.64–2.45, P<0.001). The discriminatory capacity of the score was similar in patients with symptom onset beyond 6 hours (AUC=0.705). Compared to existing models, the TREAT-AIS score consistently exhibited superior predictive accuracy, although this difference was marginal.
Conclusions
The TREAT-AIS score outperformed existing models, and demonstrated an acceptable discriminatory capacity for distinguishing patients according to sICH risk levels. However, the differences between models were only marginal. Further research incorporating periprocedural and postprocedural factors is required to improve the predictive accuracy.
6.Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 Gene Mutation May Reduce the Risk of Rupture of Intracranial Aneurysm in Chinese Han Population
Xiheng CHEN ; Siming GUI ; Dachao WEI ; Dingwei DENG ; Yudi TANG ; Jian LV ; Wei YOU ; Jia JIANG ; Jun LIN ; Huijian GE ; Peng LIU ; Yuhua JIANG ; Lixin MA ; Yunci WANG ; Ming LV ; Youxiang LI
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(2):237-249
Background:
and Purpose Ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIA) are associated with a mortality rate of up to 40% in the Chinese population, highlighting the critical need for targeted treatment interventions for at-risk individuals. Although the impact of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) gene mutations on susceptibility to intracranial aneurysms (IA) is well documented, the potential connection between ALDH2 rs671 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and RIA remains unexplored. Given the increased prevalence of ALDH2 gene mutations among Chinese Han individuals, it is clinically relevant to investigate the link between ALDH2 rs671 SNP and IA rupture.
Methods:
A prospective study was conducted on 546 patients diagnosed with IA to investigate the association between ALDH2 rs671 SNP and the risk of IA rupture.
Results:
The ALDH2 rs671 SNP (ALDH2*2) was significantly more prevalent in patients with unruptured IA (UIA) than in those with RIA (32.56% vs. 18.58%, P=0.004). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that people with the ALDH2 mutation (ALDH2*1/*2 and ALDH2*2/*2 gene type) had a significantly reduced odds ratio (OR=0.49; 95% confidence level [CI] 0.27–0.88; P=0.018) for RIAs. Age-specific subgroup analysis indicated that the ALDH2 mutation provided a stronger protective effect in individuals aged 60 years and above with IA compared to those under 60 years old (OR=0.38 vs. OR=0.52, both P<0.05).
Conclusion
The incidence of RIA was significantly higher in individuals with a normal ALDH2 gene (ALDH2*1/*1) than in those with an ALDH2 rs671 SNP (ALDH2*1/*2 or ALDH2*2/*2). ALDH2 rs671 SNP may serve as a protective factor against RIA in the Chinese Han population.
7.Predictive Modeling of Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Following Endovascular Thrombectomy: Insights From the Nationwide TREAT-AIS Registry
Jia-Hung CHEN ; I-Chang SU ; Yueh-Hsun LU ; Yi-Chen HSIEH ; Chih-Hao CHEN ; Chun-Jen LIN ; Yu-Wei CHEN ; Kuan-Hung LIN ; Pi-Shan SUNG ; Chih-Wei TANG ; Hai-Jui CHU ; Chuan-Hsiu FU ; Chao-Liang CHOU ; Cheng-Yu WEI ; Shang-Yih YAN ; Po-Lin CHEN ; Hsu-Ling YEH ; Sheng-Feng SUNG ; Hon-Man LIU ; Ching-Huang LIN ; Meng LEE ; Sung-Chun TANG ; I-Hui LEE ; Lung CHAN ; Li-Ming LIEN ; Hung-Yi CHIOU ; Jiunn-Tay LEE ; Jiann-Shing JENG ;
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(1):85-94
Background:
and Purpose Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) following endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is a severe complication associated with adverse functional outcomes and increased mortality rates. Currently, a reliable predictive model for sICH risk after EVT is lacking.
Methods:
This study used data from patients aged ≥20 years who underwent EVT for anterior circulation stroke from the nationwide Taiwan Registry of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke (TREAT-AIS). A predictive model including factors associated with an increased risk of sICH after EVT was developed to differentiate between patients with and without sICH. This model was compared existing predictive models using nationwide registry data to evaluate its relative performance.
Results:
Of the 2,507 identified patients, 158 developed sICH after EVT. Factors such as diastolic blood pressure, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, platelet count, glucose level, collateral score, and successful reperfusion were associated with the risk of sICH after EVT. The TREAT-AIS score demonstrated acceptable predictive accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]=0.694), with higher scores being associated with an increased risk of sICH (odds ratio=2.01 per score increase, 95% confidence interval=1.64–2.45, P<0.001). The discriminatory capacity of the score was similar in patients with symptom onset beyond 6 hours (AUC=0.705). Compared to existing models, the TREAT-AIS score consistently exhibited superior predictive accuracy, although this difference was marginal.
Conclusions
The TREAT-AIS score outperformed existing models, and demonstrated an acceptable discriminatory capacity for distinguishing patients according to sICH risk levels. However, the differences between models were only marginal. Further research incorporating periprocedural and postprocedural factors is required to improve the predictive accuracy.
8.Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 Gene Mutation May Reduce the Risk of Rupture of Intracranial Aneurysm in Chinese Han Population
Xiheng CHEN ; Siming GUI ; Dachao WEI ; Dingwei DENG ; Yudi TANG ; Jian LV ; Wei YOU ; Jia JIANG ; Jun LIN ; Huijian GE ; Peng LIU ; Yuhua JIANG ; Lixin MA ; Yunci WANG ; Ming LV ; Youxiang LI
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(2):237-249
Background:
and Purpose Ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIA) are associated with a mortality rate of up to 40% in the Chinese population, highlighting the critical need for targeted treatment interventions for at-risk individuals. Although the impact of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) gene mutations on susceptibility to intracranial aneurysms (IA) is well documented, the potential connection between ALDH2 rs671 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and RIA remains unexplored. Given the increased prevalence of ALDH2 gene mutations among Chinese Han individuals, it is clinically relevant to investigate the link between ALDH2 rs671 SNP and IA rupture.
Methods:
A prospective study was conducted on 546 patients diagnosed with IA to investigate the association between ALDH2 rs671 SNP and the risk of IA rupture.
Results:
The ALDH2 rs671 SNP (ALDH2*2) was significantly more prevalent in patients with unruptured IA (UIA) than in those with RIA (32.56% vs. 18.58%, P=0.004). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that people with the ALDH2 mutation (ALDH2*1/*2 and ALDH2*2/*2 gene type) had a significantly reduced odds ratio (OR=0.49; 95% confidence level [CI] 0.27–0.88; P=0.018) for RIAs. Age-specific subgroup analysis indicated that the ALDH2 mutation provided a stronger protective effect in individuals aged 60 years and above with IA compared to those under 60 years old (OR=0.38 vs. OR=0.52, both P<0.05).
Conclusion
The incidence of RIA was significantly higher in individuals with a normal ALDH2 gene (ALDH2*1/*1) than in those with an ALDH2 rs671 SNP (ALDH2*1/*2 or ALDH2*2/*2). ALDH2 rs671 SNP may serve as a protective factor against RIA in the Chinese Han population.
9.Preparation and evaluation of long-acting light-protective nanogel based on fullerenol-cerium oxide composite system
Tianlong ZHANG ; Jia LIU ; Qing ZHAO ; Yue ZHOU ; Ming YANG ; Qianyu LUO
China Pharmacy 2025;36(17):2106-2112
OBJECTIVE To develop a long-acting light-protective nanogel with both physical barrier and chemical clearance functions, and evaluate its performance. METHODS The photoprotective nanogel composed of mussel mucin and sodium hyaluronate was constructed based on a fullerenol-cerium oxide composite nano system, namely fullerenol-cerium oxide nanogel (FCN), and was characterized. The antioxidant capacity of FCN was evaluated using in vitro free radical scavenging experiments; its UV shielding ability was assessed by using an SPF value detector; its biosafety was assessed according to the requirements of the Guidelines for Drug Safety Evaluation; skin adhesion was assessed using small animal 3D live imaging technology; its sun protection ability was assessed through skin sunscreen detection and histopathological observation. RESULTS The average particle sizes of cerium oxide and fullerenol nanoparticles in FCN were about 20 and 10 nm, respectively, and FCN exhibited good UV absorption and free radical scavenging abilities. SPF value of FCN was 58.95±0.82, and the ultraviolet A protection level value was 6.21±0.15. No pathogenic colonies such as Staphylococcus aureus, were detected in the nanogel, and the contents of lead, arsenic, mercury and cadmium all met the standards for pharmaceutical excipients; FCN group did not show any irritating reactions such as erythema, edema, or desquamation; blood biochemical indicators of the FCN group were within the normal reference range. The material clearance rate of mice in the artificial sweat flushing group was less than 30%, while the material clearance rate of mice in the dry cleaning group reached about 92%. The mice in the protective group did not show obvious erythema or ulcer formation throughout the experiment. Histopathology showed that the fibers were arranged in an orderly manner, and the number of collagen fibers was close to that of the control group. CONCLUSIONS The FCN formulation constructed in this study meets the relevant requirements of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, has good safety and skin compatibility, and achieves dual synergistic protection of UV shielding and free radical scavenging.
10.Anti-tumor Effect and Mechanism of Active Ingredients from Yin-nourishing Chinese Herbs: A Review
Qimeng FAN ; Yanran HE ; Liangshan MING ; Zishu DONG ; Yingjiao LIU ; Zhixin LI ; Jia HUANG ; Hongning LIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(20):252-265
Tumor has become a major disease that seriously threatens human health and life. The incidence rate is increasing year by year, yet the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a treasure of the Chinese nation and a wealth for people worldwide, plays an important role in the treatment of tumors and has been receiving increasing attention both in China and abroad. In earlier work, based on the symptoms and metastatic characteristics of tumors, and drawing on the TCM theory of Yin and Yang in combination with modern medical research on tumors, the ''Yin deficiency-cancer correlation'' hypothesis was proposed. This hypothesis holds that ''Yin deficiency'' of the body is a major cause of malignant tumors, and that nourishing Yin to eliminate the pathogenic factor of Yin deficiency can treat cancer. By using Yin-nourishing drugs to tonify Yin deficiency, the occurrence and development of malignant tumors can be effectively prevented. Common anti-tumor Yin-nourishing drugs include Glehniae Radix, Lilii Bulbus, Ophiopogonis Radix, Liriopes Radix, Asparagi Radix, Dendrobii Caulis, Dendrobii Officinalis Caulis, Polygonati Odorati Rhizoma, Polygonati Rhizoma, Lycii Fructus, Mori Fructus, Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, Ecliptae Herba, Rehmanniae Radix, and Anemarrhenae Rhizoma. These drugs are generally sweet in flavor, cold and cool in nature, and moist in texture. They have the functions of nourishing Yin fluids, generating body fluids, and moistening dryness, and can also clear heat, being primarily indicated for Yin deficiency with depletion of body fluids. In view of the potential advantages and value of treating malignant tumors by tonifying Yin deficiency with Chinese medicine, this paper reviews recent studies on the anti-tumor effects of active components of Yin-nourishing drugs. It further summarizes their mechanisms of action in inducing apoptosis of tumor cells, arresting tumor cell proliferation, inhibiting tumor invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis, enhancing and regulating immune function, augmenting the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs, and reversing tumor drug resistance. This study provides an objective overview of research progress on Yin-nourishing drugs in tumor treatment and offers new ideas for cancer therapy.

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