1.Neuroplasticity Mechanisms of Exercise-induced Brain Protection
Li-Juan HOU ; Lan-Qun MAO ; Wei CHEN ; Ke LI ; Xu-Dong ZHAO ; Yin-Hao WANG ; Zi-Zheng YANG ; Tian-He WEI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(6):1435-1452
Neuroscience is a significant frontier discipline within the natural sciences and has become an important interdisciplinary frontier scientific field. Brain is one of the most complex organs in the human body, and its structural and functional analysis is considered the “ultimate frontier” of human self-awareness and exploration of nature. Driven by the strategic layout of “China Brain Project”, Chinese scientists have conducted systematic research focusing on “understanding the brain, simulating the brain, and protecting the brain”. They have made breakthrough progress in areas such as the principles of brain cognition, mechanisms and interventions for brain diseases, brain-like computation, and applications of brain-machine intelligence technology, aiming to enhance brain health through biomedical technology and improve the quality of human life. Due to limited understanding and comprehension of neuroscience, there are still many important unresolved issues in the field of neuroscience, resulting in a lack of effective measures to prevent and protect brain health. Therefore, in addition to actively developing new generation drugs, exploring non pharmacological treatment strategies with better health benefits and higher safety is particularly important. Epidemiological data shows that, exercise is not only an indispensable part of daily life but also an important non-pharmacological approach for protecting brain health and preventing neurodegenerative diseases, forming an emerging research field known as motor neuroscience. Basic research in motor neuroscience primarily focuses on analyzing the dynamic coding mechanisms of neural circuits involved in motor control, breakthroughs in motor neuroscience research depend on the construction of dynamic monitoring systems across temporal and spatial scales. Therefore, high spatiotemporal resolution detection of movement processes and movement-induced changes in brain structure and neural activity signals is an important technical foundation for conducting motor neuroscience research and has developed a set of tools based on traditional neuroscience methods combined with novel motor behavior decoding technologies, providing an innovative technical platform for motor neuroscience research. The protective effect of exercise in neurodegenerative diseases provides broad application prospects for its clinical translation. Applied research in motor neuroscience centers on deciphering the regulatory networks of neuroprotective molecules mediated by exercise. From the perspectives of exercise promoting neurogenesis and regeneration, enhancing synaptic plasticity, modulating neuronal functional activity, and remodeling the molecular homeostasis of the neuronal microenvironment, it aims to improve cognitive function and reduce the incidence of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. This has also advanced research into the molecular regulatory networks mediating exercise-induced neuroprotection and facilitated the clinical application and promotion of exercise rehabilitation strategies. Multidimensional analysis of exercise-regulated neural plasticity is the theoretical basis for elucidating the brain-protective mechanisms mediated by exercise and developing intervention strategies for neurological diseases. Thus,real-time analysis of different neural signals during active exercise is needed to study the health effects of exercise throughout the entire life cycle and enhance lifelong sports awareness. Therefore, this article will systematically summarize the innovative technological developments in motor neuroscience research, review the mechanisms of neural plasticity that exercise utilizes to protect the brain, and explore the role of exercise in the prevention and treatment of major neurodegenerative diseases. This aims to provide new ideas for future theoretical innovations and clinical applications in the field of exercise-induced brain protection.
2.The Critical Roles of GABAergic Interneurons in The Pathological Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease
Ke-Han CHEN ; Zheng-Jiang YANG ; Zi-Xin GAO ; Yuan YAO ; De-Zhong YAO ; Yin YANG ; Ke CHEN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(9):2233-2240
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia in the elderly, is characterized by severe cognitive decline, loss of daily living abilities, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. This condition imposes a substantial burden on patients, families, and society. Despite extensive research efforts, the complex pathogenesis of AD, particularly the early mechanisms underlying cognitive dysfunction, remains incompletely understood, posing significant challenges for timely diagnosis and effective therapeutic intervention. Among the various cellular components implicated in AD, GABAergic interneurons have emerged as critical players in the pathological cascade, playing a pivotal role in maintaining neural network integrity and function in key brain regions affected by the disease. GABAergic interneurons represent a heterogeneous population of inhibitory neurons essential for sustaining neural network homeostasis. They achieve this by precisely modulating rhythmic oscillatory activity (e.g., theta and gamma oscillations), which are crucial for cognitive processes such as learning and memory. These interneurons synthesize and release the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, exerting potent control over excitatory pyramidal neurons through intricate local circuits. Their primary mechanism involves synaptic inhibition, thereby modulating the excitability and synchrony of neural populations. Emerging evidence highlights the significant involvement of GABAergic interneuron dysfunction in AD pathogenesis. Contrary to earlier assumptions of their resistance to the disease, specific subtypes exhibit vulnerability or altered function early in the disease process. Critically, this impairment is not merely a consequence but appears to be a key driver of network hyperexcitability, a hallmark feature of AD models and potentially a core mechanism underlying cognitive deficits. For instance, parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons display biphasic alterations in activity. Both suppressing early hyperactivity or enhancing late activity can rescue cognitive deficits, underscoring their causal role. Somatostatin-positive (SST+) neurons are highly sensitive to amyloid β-protein (Aβ) dysfunction. Their functional impairment drives AD progression via a dual pathway: compensatory hyperexcitability promotes Aβ generation, while released SST-14 forms toxic oligomers with Aβ, collectively accelerating neuronal loss and amyloid deposition, forming a vicious cycle. Vasoactive intestinal peptide-positive (VIP+) neurons, although potentially spared in number early in the disease, exhibit altered firing properties (e.g., broader spikes, lower frequency), contributing to network dysfunction (e.g., in CA1). Furthermore, VIP release induced by 40 Hz sensory stimulation (GENUS) enhances glymphatic clearance of Aβ, demonstrating a direct link between VIP neuron function and modulation of amyloid pathology. Given their central role in network stability and their demonstrable dysfunction in AD, GABAergic interneurons represent promising therapeutic targets. Current research primarily explores three approaches: increasing interneuron numbers (e.g., improving cortical PV+ interneuron counts and behavior in APP/PS1 mice with the antidepressant citalopram; transplanting stem cells differentiated into functional GABAergic neurons to enhance cognition), enhancing neuronal activity (e.g., using low-dose levetiracetam or targeted activation of specific molecules to boost PV+ interneuron excitability, restoring neural network γ‑oscillations and memory; non-invasive neuromodulation techniques like 40 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), GENUS, and minimally invasive electroacupuncture to improve inhibitory regulation, promote memory, and reduce Aβ), and direct GABA system intervention (clinical and animal studies reveal reduced GABA levels in AD-affected brain regions; early GABA supplementation improves cognition in APP/PS1 mice, suggesting a therapeutic time window). Collectively, these findings establish GABAergic interneuron intervention as a foundational rationale and distinct pathway for AD therapy. In conclusion, GABAergic interneurons, particularly the PV+, SST+, and VIP+ subtypes, play critical and subtype-specific roles in the initiation and progression of AD pathology. Their dysfunction significantly contributes to network hyperexcitability, oscillatory deficits, and cognitive decline. Understanding the heterogeneity in their vulnerability and response mechanisms provides crucial insights into AD pathogenesis. Targeting these interneurons through pharmacological, neuromodulatory, or cellular approaches offers promising avenues for developing novel, potentially disease-modifying therapies.
3.Case observation of viral keratitis caused by SARS-CoV-2
Mengzhen XIE ; Hao ZHANG ; Ke MA ; Hongbo YIN ; Lixiang WANG ; Jing TANG
International Eye Science 2024;24(4):495-499
AIM: To report three cases of viral keratitis caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2).METHODS: Slit lamp, intraocular pressure, corneal fluorescence staining, anterior segment photography, in vivo confocal microscopy(IVCM), and routine fundus screening were performed in the three confirmed patients. Treatment involved Ganciclovir, artificial tears and glucocorticoid eye drops.RESULTS: Three patients with SARS-CoV-2 keratitis(SCK)recovered well after standard treatment.CONCLUSION: SARS-CoV-2 keratitis typically presents as corneal subepithelial infiltration and can result in a decrease in corneal subepithelial nerve fiber density and an increase in dendritic cells(DC). Antiviral therapy in combination with glucocorticoid has proven to be effective.
4. Research progress of antineoplastic drugs targeting platelets
Yue-Ke ZHOU ; Cheng QIAN ; Yu TANG ; Zhong-Hong WEI ; Yin LU ; Ai-Yun WANG ; Yin LU ; Ai-Yun WANG
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2024;40(1):20-25
Platelets have long been recognized as key players in hemostasis and thrombosis; however, there is growing evidence that they are also involved in cancer. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that platelets can promote tumorigenesis and metastasis through various crosstalks between platelets and cancer cells. Platelets play an active role in all stages of tumorigenesis, including tumor growth, tumor cell extravasation, and metastasis. In addition, thrombocytosis in cancer patients is associated with poor patient survival. Platelets are also well-placed to coordinate local and distant tumor-host interactions due to the a- bundance of microparticles and exosomes. Therefore, antitumor drugs targeting platelets have great development and application prospects. The following will review the research progress of anti-tumor drugs targeting platelets.
5.Study of glycosides from Piper sintenense Hatusima
Penghuang TU ; Zhiren YAO ; Meiling JIN ; Guanyu NING ; Yaping HUANG ; Ke PAN ; Zhiqi YIN
Journal of China Pharmaceutical University 2024;55(2):202-208
In order to investigate the chemical constituents of glycosides in Piper sintenense Hatusima, column chromatographic techniques such as silica gel, ODS, MCI GEL CHP20P, Sephadex LH-20, and semi-preparative high performance liquid chromatography were used to afford nine glycosides from the n-butanol part of the 95% ethanol extract of Piper sintenense Hatusima. Based on the physicochemical properties and NMR data, the above compounds were identified as (2S)-2-hydroxy-1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1-propanone-2-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), 2-phenylethyl β-D-glucopyranoside (2), benzyl α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1''→6')-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), benzyl β-D-xylopyanosyl-(1''→6')-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), phenethyl β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1''→ 2')-β-D-glucopyranoside(5), salidroside (6), phenethanol β-D-xylopyanosyl-(1''→6')-β-D-glucopyranoside (7), (Z)-hexenyl-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1''→6')-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (8), (Z)-hexenyl-O-β-D-xylopyanosyl-(1''→6')-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (9). Compound 1 was identified as a new compound, and compounds 3-9 were isolated from the genus Piper for the first time.
6.Investigation on polyurethane grouting waterproof material-induced occupational acute 1,2-dichloroethane poisoning in the construction industry
Junling LIU ; Hanfeng LI ; Ke LI ; Kun GUAN ; Qiangbing YIN ; Xiang GUO ; Yaoping GUO
China Occupational Medicine 2024;51(1):116-120
ObjectiveTo analyze the causes of occupational acute 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) poisoning accident during the use of polyurethane grouting materials for waterproof plugging operation in the construction industry. Methods By combining the clinical symptoms of the patient, worksite survey of occupational health and workplace occupational hazards monitoring method, the cause of an occupational acute 1,2-DCE poisoning accident was investigated at a construction site during the use of polyurethane grouting material for waterproofing and plugging operations. Results The patient was engaged in waterproof grouting work using polyurethane grouting material. The main volatile organic components in the raw materials were 1,2-DCE, with traces of dichloromethane, methyl acetate and others. The result of post-incident on-site investigation showed that the short-term exposure concentration of 1,2-DCE in the workplace air was 578.70 mg/m3, which was more than 30 times higher than the national occupational health standard limit. The mass concentration of 1,2-DCE in the patient's blood was 230 μg/L. Combined with the patient's occupational hazard exposure history, clinical manifestations, worksite survey of occupational health, and laboratory test results, according to GBZ 39-2016 Diagnosis of Occupational Acute 1,2-Dichloroethane Poisoning, this incident was diagnosed as a severe occupational acute 1,2-DCE poisoning event caused by the use of inferior polyurethane grouting material. Conclusion The excessive concentration of 1,2-DCE in the workplace air is the main cause of this poisoning accident. Construction sites with confined space operations should improve various occupational health management systems, occupational health engineering protective facilities, and personal protective equipment must be provided for workers.
7.Analysis of factors associated with spread through air spaces(STAS) of small adenocarcinomas(≤2 cm) in peripheral stage ⅠA lungs and modeling of nomograms
Jing FENG ; Wei SHAO ; Xiayin CAO ; Jia LIU ; Jialei MING ; Ya’nan ZHANG ; Jianbing YIN ; Jin CHEN ; Honggang KE ; Lei CUI
Chinese Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2024;40(3):129-136
Objective:To investigate the relationship between spread through air spaces(STAS) of peripheral stage ⅠA small adenocarcinoma of the lung(≤2 cm) and related factors such as clinical and CT morphological features, and to construct a nomogram model.Methods:Relevant clinical, pathological and imaging data of patients who underwent lung surgery and were diagnosed as peripheral stage ⅠA small lung adenocarcinoma by postoperative pathology in the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University from 2017 to 2022 were collected, of which cases that met the inclusion criteria from 2017 to 2021 served as the training group, and those that met the inclusion criteria in 2022 served as the validation group. The independent risk factors for the occurrence of STAS in peripheral stage ⅠA lung small adenocarcinoma were investigated by using univariate analysis and multifactorial logistic regression analysis, based on which a nomogram prediction model was constructed, and the subjects were analyzed by using the receiver operating characteristic curve( ROC), correction model, etc. were used to evaluate the model. Results:A total of 430 patients who met the criteria were included, including 351 patients in the training group(109 STAS-positive and 242 STAS-negative) and 79 patients in the validation group(23 STAS-positive and 56 STAS-negative). Univariate analysis showed that the patients in the two groups showed a significant difference in age(>58 years old), gender, smoking history, tumor location(subpleural, non-subpleural), pleural pull, nodule type, nodule maximal diameter, solid component maximal diameter, consolidation tumor ratio(CTR), lobulation sign, burr sign, bronchial truncation sign, vascular sign(includes thickening and distortion of blood vessels in/around the nodes), satellite lesions, and ground-glass band sign were statistically significant( P<0.05). The results of multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that CTR( OR=4.98, P<0.001), lobulation sign( OR=4.07, P=0.013), burr sign( OR=3.66, P<0.001), and satellite lesions( OR=3.56, P=0.009) were the independent risk factors for the occurrence of STAS. Applying the above factors to construct the nomogram model and validate the model, the results showed that the ROC curve was plotted by the nomogram prediction model, and the area under the ROC curve( AUC) of the training set was 0.840(sensitivity 0.835, specificity 0.734), and the validation set had an AUC value of 0.852(sensitivity 0.786, specificity 0.783), and the training set and validation set calibration curves have good overlap with the ideal curve. Conclusion:CTR, lobular sign, burr sign, and satellite lesions are independent risk factors for STAS, and the nomogram model constructed in this study has good predictive value.
8.Effects of victimization, bullying tolerance on anxiety/depression in adolescents and moderating role of cognitive emotion regulation strategies
Ke ZHAO ; Shaoqing YIN ; Hong LIU
Chinese Journal of Child Health Care 2024;32(3):268-272
【Objective】 To explore the relationship of victimization, bullying tolerance and anxiety/depression in adolescents, and to examine the moderating effect of cognitive emotion regulation strategies on the relationship between bullying tolerance and anxiety/depression, in order to provide basis for intervention. 【Methods】 From January 2019 to July 2020, 1 768 adolescents were selected into this survey, and completed Bully/Victim Questionnaire, Primary and Secondary School Bullying Tolerance Questionnaire, Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and the 28 General Health questionnaires. 【Results】 Adolescents′ victimization was relatively common and serious, the proportion of verbal bullying, relational bullying, and physical bullying was 57.64% (1 019/1 768), 36.60% (647/1 768), and 22.40% (396/1 768), respectirely. The scores of anxiety and depression of adolescents with different gender (t=2.00), school stage (F=101.38) and academic performance (F=27.91) were statistically significant (P<0.05).Victimization and bullying tolerance had predictive effect on adolescents′ anxiety/depression (β=0.14, 0.13, P<0.01).Positive strategies, negative strategies had significant moderating effects on the relationship between bullying tolerance and anxiety/depression(β=-0.10、0.08, P<0.01).The simple slope analysis showed that at high positive strategy level, bullying tolerance had no significant predictive effect on anxiety/depression (P>0.05), while at a low positive strategy level, bullying tolerance had significant predictive effect on anxiety/depression (β=0.28, P<0.01).At a high negative strategy level, bullying tolerance had a significant predictive effect on anxiety/depression (β=0.25, P<0.01), while at a low negative strategy level, bullying tolerance had no significant predictive effect on anxiety/depression (P>0.05). 【Conclusions】 Victimization and bullying tolerance positively predict adolescent anxiety/depression.High levels of positive and low levels of negative strategies effectively inhibit the risk of anxiety/depression, while low levels of positive and high levels of negative strategies amplify the risk of anxiety/depression.
9.Nanozyme and Abiogenesis
Long MA ; Zi-Mo LIANG ; Yin-Yin HOU ; Jing FENG ; Ke-Long FAN ; Xi-Yun YAN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2024;51(10):2274-2291
Nanozymes, a groundbreaking discovery by Chinese scientists, represent a novel and remarkable property of nanomaterials. They not only exhibit catalytic activity comparable to natural enzymes, but also boast exceptional stability, tunable reactivity, and the ability to catalyze reactions under mild conditions. The identification of nanozymes has unveiled the biocatalytic potential of inorganic nanomaterials. In parallel, inorganic minerals have long been regarded as pivotal catalysts in the origin of life, driving the synthesis of early biomolecules. These minerals not only facilitate redox reactions that convert simple inorganic compounds into organic molecules but also enable chiral selection, the synthesis of biomacromolecules, and radioprotective functions via their surface structures. Recent advances suggest that inorganic nanomaterials can delicately catalyze the formation of biomolecules, aid in macromolecular assembly, and provide radiation shielding. Furthermore, nanominerals are found in abundance across Earth and extraterrestrial environments. This paper seeks to explore the potential of nanozymes as catalytic agents in the processes that gave rise to life, integrating the catalytic roles of inorganic minerals with the unique attributes of nanozymes, which will provide a new perspective for research of origin of life.
10.MoS2 nanozyme attenuated inflammation-related endothelial cell injury by regulating mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy
Dong-mei PAN ; Sun-kui KE ; Qian-hao YIN ; Pei-yan YANG ; Chao LI ; She-fang YE
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2024;59(10):2791-2799
To explore the protective mechanisms of a novel molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanozyme in alleviating inflammation-related endothelial cell injury by regulating mitochondrial dynamic, flower like-MoS2 nanosheets were prepared by hydrothermal method, and its antioxidant enzyme-mimic activities were assessed

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