1.DIA Proteomics Reveals Mechanism of Acanthopanacis Senticosi Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Extract in Treating α-Syn Transgenic Parkinson's Disease in Mice
Qi ZHENG ; Yi LU ; Donghua YU ; Liangyou ZHAO ; Chunsheng LIN ; Fang LU ; Shumin LIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(8):40-50
ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanism of Acanthopanacis Senticosi Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis extract (ASH) in treating Parkinson's disease (PD) in mice by Data-Independent Acquisition (DIA) proteomics. MethodsThe α-Synuclein (α-Syn) transgenic PD mice were selected as suitable models for PD, and they were randomly assigned into PD, ASH (61.25 mg·kg-1), and Madopar (97.5 mg·kg-1) groups. Male C57BL/6 mice of the same age were selected as the control group, with eight mice in each group. Mice were administrated with corresponding drugs by gavage once a day for 20 days. The pole climbing time and the number of autonomic activities were recorded to evaluate the exercise ability of mice. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was employed to observe neuronal changes in the substantia nigra of PD mice. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was employed to measure the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity in the substantia nigra and assess the areal density of α-Syn in the striatum. DIA proteomics was used to compare protein expression in the substantia nigra between groups. IHC was utilized to validate key differentially expressed proteins, including Lactotransferrin, Notch2, Ndrg2, and TMEM 166. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) method was used to investigate the effect of ASH on the viability of PD cells with overexpression of α-Syn. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) and Western blot were employed to determine the protein and mRNA levels of Lactotransferrin, Notch2, Ndrg2, and TMEM 166 in PD cells. ResultsCompared with the control group, the model group showed prolonged pole climbing time, diminished coordination ability, reduced autonomic activities (P<0.01), and reduced swelling neurons. Compared with the model group, ASH and Madopar reduced the climbing time, increased autonomic activities (P<0.01), and ameliorated neuronal damage. Compared with the control group, the model group showed a decrease in TH activity in the substantia nigra and an increase in α-Syn accumulation in the striatum (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the ASH group showed an increase in TH activity and a reduction in α-Syn accumulation (P<0.05). DIA proteomics revealed a total of 464 differentially expressed proteins in the model group compared with the control group, with 323 proteins being up-regulated and 141 down-regulated. A total of 262 differentially expressed proteins were screened in the ASH group compared with the model group, including 85 proteins being up-regulated and 177 down-regulated. Kyoto encylopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis indicated that ASH primarily regulated the Notch signaling pathway. The model group showed up-regulation in protein levels of Notch2, Ndrg2, and TMEM 166 and down-regulation in the protein level of Lactotransferrin compared with the control group (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, ASH down-regulated the protein levels of Notch2, Ndrg2, and TMEM 166 (P<0.05) while up-regulating the protein level of Lactotransferrin (P<0.01). The IHC results corroborated the proteomics findings. The cell experiment results showed that compared with the control group, the modeling up-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of Notch2, Ndrg2, and TMEM 166 (P<0.01), while down-regulating the mRNA and protein levels of Lactotransferrin (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, ASH reduced the mRNA and protein levels of Notch2, Ndrg2, and TMEM 166 (P<0.01), while increasing the mRNA and protein levels of Lactotransferrin (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionASH may Synergistically inhibit the Notch signaling pathway and mitigate neuronal damage by down-regulating the expression of Notch2 and Ndrg2. Additionally, by up-regulating the expression of Lactotransferrin and down-regulating the expression of TMEM166, ASH can address brain iron accumulation, intervene in ferroptosis, inhibit mitophagy, and mitigate reactive oxygen species damage, thereby protecting nerve cells and contributing to the treatment of PD.
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.Terms Related to The Study of Biomacromolecular Condensates
Ke RUAN ; Xiao-Feng FANG ; Dan LI ; Pi-Long LI ; Yi LIN ; Zheng WANG ; Yun-Yu SHI ; Ming-Jie ZHANG ; Hong ZHANG ; Cong LIU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(4):1027-1035
Biomolecular condensates are formed through phase separation of biomacromolecules such as proteins and RNAs. These condensates exhibit liquid-like properties that can futher transition into more stable material states. They form complex internal structures via multivalent weak interactions, enabling precise spatiotemporal regulations. However, the use of inconsistent and non-standardized terminology has become increasingly problematic, hindering academic exchange and the dissemination of scientific knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss the terminology related to biomolecular condensates in order to clarify concepts, promote interdisciplinary cooperation, enhance research efficiency, and support the healthy development of this field.
4.Status Analysis of Acupoint Selection and Stimulation Parameters Application for Acupuncture Treatment of Functional Dyspepsia
Siyi ZHENG ; Han ZHANG ; Yang YU ; Chuanlong ZHOU ; Yan SHI ; Xiaohu YIN ; Shouhai HONG ; Na NIE ; Jianqiao FANG ; Yi LIANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(12):1293-1299
Based on commonly used acupoints in the clinical acupuncture treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD), this study systematically analyzes the therapeutic differences and synergistic effects between local and distal point selection. It also examines the suitability of primary acupoint selection for different FD subtypes, postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS). The findings suggest that a combination of local and distal acupoints may be more appropriate as primary points for PDS, whereas local acupoints alone may be more suitable for EPS. Additionally, the study explores the impact of various factors, such as stimulation techniques, needling order, intensity or stimulation parameters, and depth, on the efficacy of acupuncture. It concludes that the intrinsic properties of acupoints are the primary determinants of therapeutic direction. Other factors mainly influence the magnitude rather than the direction of the effect. Future research may further investigate how different acupoint combinations, local versus distal, affect the treatment outcomes of FD subtypes, providing new insights for clinical acupuncture prescriptions.
5.Establishment and application of a prospective follow-up research method for acute infectious diseases in Shanghai community residents
Yaxu ZHENG ; Xiao YU ; Huanyu WU ; Liming WU ; Jian CHEN ; Wenjia XIAO ; Zhuoying HUANG ; Sheng LIN ; Qiwen FANG ; Rui LIU ; Hao ZHANG ; Xin CHEN
Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine 2024;36(1):5-10
ObjectiveTo present the exploration and application of a prospective follow-up research method for acute infectious disease surveillance based on natural community populations, using COVID-19 infection as an example, and to provide a reference for improving the infectious disease surveillance and early warning system. MethodsA multi-stage probability proportional sampling method was employed to sample residents from all communities of 16 administrative districts in Shanghai, with households as the units. A cohort for acute infectious diseases based on natural community populations was established. The baseline survey was conducted for all cohort subjects, and COVID-19 antigen test kits were distributed. From December 21, 2022 to September 30, 2023, prospective follow-up monitoring of COVID-19 antigen and nucleic acid was carried out on the study subjects on a weekly basis. The baseline characteristics and follow-up information of the cohort subjects were described. ResultsThe cohort for acute infectious diseases included a total of 12 881 subjects, comprising 6 098 males (47.3%) and 6 783 females (52.7%). The baseline survey revealed that 35.2% (4 540/12 881) of the subjects had a history of COVID-19 infection. During the follow-up period from December 21, 2022 to September 30, 2023, the average incidence density in the cohort was 0.61/person-year, with a higher incidence density in females (0.63/person-year) compared to males (0.59/person-year). Individuals aged 60 and above (0.64/person-year) and those with underlying health conditions (0.67/person-year) had a higher incidence density. Healthcare workers showed a notably higher incidence density (0.84/person-year) than that in other occupational groups. As of September 30, 2023, a total of 340 subjects in the cohort experienced secondary infections, with a median interval of 170 days between the first and second infections. ConclusionThis study applies cohort study method to acute infectious disease surveillance, providing crucial data support for estimating infection rates and forecasting alerts for acute infectious diseases in the community. This method can be promoted and applied as a new approach for acute infectious disease surveillance.
6. The neuroprotective effects of Herba siegesbeckiae extract on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats
Hui-Ling WU ; Qing-Qing WU ; Jing-Quan CHEN ; Bin-Bin ZHOU ; Zheng-Shuang YU ; Ze-Lin YANG ; Wen-Fang LAI ; Gui-Zhu HONG
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2024;40(1):70-75
Aim To study the neuroprotective effects of Herba siegesbeckiae extract on cerebral ischemia/ reperfusion rats and its mechanism. Methods Sixty SD rats were randomly divided into model group, low, middle and high dose groups of Herba siegesbeckiae, and Sham operation group, and the drug was given continuously for seven days. The degree of neurologic impairment was evaluated by mNSS, and the infarct volume was measured by MRI. The number of Nissl-posi- tive cells was detected by Nissl staining, and the apop- tosis was accessed by Tunel staining. Furthermore, the expression of Bax, Bcl-2 and NeuN was observed by Western blot, and the expression of NeuN was detected by immunofluorescence staining. The expression of IL- 1β, TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA was performed by RT- qPCR. Results The mNSS score and the volume of ischemic cerebral infarction in the model group were significantly increased, and Herba siegesbeckiae extract treatment significantly decreased the mNSS score and infarct volume (P<0.05, P<0.01). Herba siegesbeckiae extract could increase the number of Nissl-pos- itive cells and the expression of NeuN (P<0.01), and reduce the number of Tunel-positive cells (P<0.01). Western blot showed that Herba siegesbeckiae extract inhibited the expression of Bax, increased Bcl-2 and NeuN in ischemic brain tissue (P<0.01). RT-qPCR showed that Herba siegesbeckiae extract inhibited the expression of IL-1 β, TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA in the is-chemic brain tissue (P<0.01). Conclusions Herba siegesbeckiae extract can reduce the cerebral infarction volume, improve the neurological function damage, inhibit the apoptosis of nerve cells and the expression of inflammatory factors and promote the expression of NeuN, there by exerting protective effects on MCAO rats.
7.Analysis of depressive symptoms and influencing factors among middle and high school students from 2018 to 2021 in Zhejiang Province
GU Fang, YANG Ying, ZHENG Weijun, MENG Jia, LI Juanjuan, SHEN Yu, GAO Lei, ZOU Yan, ZHANG Ronghua
Chinese Journal of School Health 2024;45(4):520-524
Objective:
To investigate the prevalence and associated factors of depressive symptoms among middle and high school students in Zhejiang Province, so as to provide scientific basis for the implementation of depressive intervention.
Methods:
Based on the health status and associated factors of middle and high school students in the project "Monitoring of Common Diseases and Health Influencing Factors of Students" during 2018 to 2021, a total of 73 309 students including middle school, ordinary high school and vocational high school surveyed in 11 cities of Zhejiang Province were selected by multi stage stratified cluster random sampling method. From 2018 to 2021, there were 6 008, 21 917, 23 712 and 21 672 students, respectively. The Chi square test and Logistic regression model were used to analyze the influencing factors of depressive symptoms in middle and high school students.
Results:
From 2018 to 2021, depressive symptoms detection rate of middle school students was 14.8%, with higher rate in girls (17.1%) than in boys (12.7%), higher rate in high school (17.1% in ordinary high school, 17.6% in vocational high school) than middle school (12.5%)( χ 2=278.77, 327.22, P <0.05). Univariate analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences in depressive symptoms detection rate among middle school students with different years (2018: 16.7%,2019: 17.9% , 2020: 13.1%, 2021: 13.0%), residence (yes: 16.3%, no:13.5%), body mass index classification (not overweight or obesity: 14.8%, overweight: 14.2%, Obesity: 15.7%), weekly exercise days (0-2 d: 17.1%, 3-5 d: 12.5%, 6-7 d: 13.1%) and bullying (yes: 35.5%, no: 10.7%) ( χ 2=293.40, 118.35, 7.83, 287.24, 4 978.84, P <0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that female students, ordinary high schools, vocational high schools, obesity, school bullying were positively correlated with depression ( OR =1.65, 1.70, 1.60, 1.12, 5.21), exercise 3 to 5 days per week, exercise 6 to 7 days per week were negatively correlated with depression ( OR=0.77, 0.81, P <0.01).
Conclusions
Depressive symptoms among middle and high school students in Zhejiang Province are prominent. Strengthening mental health education for students and providing attention and support from families, schools, and society are essential steps to reduce the occurrence of depressive symptoms among these students.
8.Imaging diagnosis, pathological upgrade, and imaging technology progress of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast
Lili ZHANG ; Ru TAN ; Xueli FANG ; Yu YANG ; Zheng SANG ; Baosheng LI
Journal of International Oncology 2024;51(3):166-169
Ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast (DCIS) most commonly manifests as asymptomatic calcifications at mammography. The most common manifestation of MRI is nonmass enhancement. The ultrasound mainly presents as a hypoechoic irregular hypervascular mass without posterior features. Core-needle biopsy is a commonly used method for preoperative diagnosis of DCIS. Due to differences in needle type and sample size, there is a certain degree of pathological upgrading of the lesion. In recent years, there has been controversy over the diagnosis and treatment of DCIS. With the development of breast disease diagnostic technology, advances in digital breast tomography, artificial intelligence, and radiomics are expected to help DCIS management and address issues such as overdiagnosis.
9.Nested case-control study on children with severe birth defects in Shanghai
Naisi QIAN ; Shan JIN ; Wenwei ZHENG ; Lei CHEN ; Bo FANG ; Chunfang WANG ; Tian XIA ; Huiting YU
Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine 2024;36(5):463-468
ObjectiveTo design a prospective nested case-control study based on a city-wide birth cohort of Shanghai, so as to understand their health status and explore the influencing factors of birth defects. MethodsBased on the birth registration covering the entire city of Shanghai, the nested case-control study of children with severe birth defects was designed. Children born with severe birth defects were selected as the case group, and healthy children were matched as the control group. Basic information, health status, maternal pregnancy history, and survival outcome of children both in the case group and the control group were collected through medical history review and home visits. The logistic regression model was used for multivariate analysis. ResultsA total of 18 875 infants born between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2021, were included, among which 11 500 (60.93%) were children with severe birth defects and 7 375 (39.07%) were healthy children. The logistic regression model analysis showed that being male (OR=1.20, 95%CI:1.13‒1.29), non-Shanghai residency (OR=1.16, 95%CI: 1.06‒1.25), multiple births (OR=8.41, 95%CI:6.25‒11.30), artificial insemination (OR=2.31, 95%CI:1.34‒3.99), in vitro fertilization (IVF) (OR=1.85, 95%CI:1.44‒2.38), maternal exposure to radiation (OR=1.83, 95%CI:1.07‒3.14), maternal illness during pregnancy (OR=1.61, 95%CI:1.49‒1.74), experiencing a traumatic event during pregnancy (OR=2.34, 95%CI:1.88‒2.92), paternal chemical exposure (OR=1.88, 95%CI:1.32‒2.69), paternal radiation exposure (OR=1.65, 95%CI: 1.18‒2.33), family history of birth defects (OR=8.18, 95%CI: 3.96‒16.89), being overweight before pregnancy (OR=1.16, 95%CI: 1.07‒1.27), being obese before pregnancy (OR=1.15, 95%CI:1.03‒1.30), and being excessively obese before pregnancy (OR=1.52, 95%CI:1.26‒1.83) were risk factors for the occurrence of birth defects. Analysis by type of birth defect found that prematurity was a risk factor for cardiac malformations and cheilopalatoschisis (OR=27.87, 95%CI: 20.84‒37.27), especially ranking first in cardiac malformations. ConclusionAfter controlling for influencing factors, maternal overweight, obesity, and excessive obesity before pregnancy, artificial insemination, and IVF are independent risk factors for the occurrence of birth defects. Choosing a healthy lifestyle, improving physical and mental health during pregnancy, and controlling BMI during pregnancy are beneficial in reducing the risk of birth defects.
10.Malnutrition among primary and secondary school students from 2008 to 2021 in Zhejiang Province
YANG Ying, ZHENG Weijun, GU Fang, MENG Jia, LI Juanjuan, GAO Lei, SHEN Yu, ZHANG Ronghua
Chinese Journal of School Health 2024;45(9):1255-1259
Objective:
To describe the prevalence characteristics and trend of malnutrition among primary and secondary school students in Zhejiang Province from 2008 to 2021, so as to provide scientific references for targeted interventions on malnutrition among children and adolescents.
Methods:
Based on the National Student Common Diseases and Health Influencing Factors Surveillance Project, 81 228 primary and middle school students aged 9-17 from Zhejiang Province were recruited for a questionnaire in 2008, 2014 and 2021, with stratified cluster random sampling method. Malnutrition was determined by Screening for Malnutrition in School aged Children and Adolescents. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for non normally distributed data, and the Chi square test was used for categorical data. A trend Chi square test analyzed detection rates across different years.
Results:
The prevalence rates of malnutrition, stunting, mild wasting, and moderate to severe wasting among primary and secondary school students in 2008, 2014 and 2021 were 12.0%, 6.6%, 6.0%; 1.2%, 0.5%, 0.3%; 6.0%, 3.9%, 3.6%; and 4.7%, 2.2%, 2.2%, with an overall declining trend ( χ 2 trend =532.73, 181.43, 161.24, 240.38, P <0.05). The prevalence rates of malnutrition and mild wasting in each year were higher in boys (13.7%, 7.6%; 7.5%, 5.0%; 7.1%, 4.5%) than in girls (10.3%, 4.4%; 5.5%, 2.7%; 4.8%, 2.5%) ( χ 2=54.45, 88.67; 47.04, 81.07; 85.28, 98.81; P <0.01). The difference in malnutrition prevalence between urban and rural areas gradually narrowed (12.5%, 11.6%; 6.9%, 6.3%; 6.0%, 6.0%), with no statistically significant difference in 2021 ( χ 2= 0.01 , P >0.05). Malnutrition among primary and secondary school students was primarily characterized by mild wasting (56.0%) in Zhejiang Province. Compared to 2008, the prevalence of malnutrition in 2014 and 2021 showed a steady upward trend with increasing age in Zhejiang Province( χ 2 trends =44.52, 11.78, P <0.01).
Conclusions
The prevalence of malnutrition among primary and secondary school students aged 9 to 17 years in Zhejiang Province decreases by year from 2008 to 2021. However, the prevalence increase steadily with age, and boys have a higher prevalence of malnutrition. Policies should be developed age , gender , and growth appropriate dietary patterns to reduce malnutrition among primary and secondary school students.


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