Objective:To observe the effects of acupoint thread-embedding therapy on serum apelin and glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with obesity due to dampness-heat encumbering spleen.Methods...Objective:To observe the effects of acupoint thread-embedding therapy on serum apelin and glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with obesity due to dampness-heat encumbering spleen.Methods:Sixty-six patients were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group according to the random number table method,with 33 cases in each group.Patients in the control group were treated with exenatide and metformin,while patients in the observation group were treated with additional acupoint thread-embedding.After 12-week treatment,the obesity-related indicators,including body mass index(BMI),waist circumference and body fat rate,the glycometabolism indicators,including fasting blood glucose,2 h postprandial blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin,and the lipid metabolism indicators,including total cholesterol(TC),triglyceride(TG)and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),as well as serum apelin and GLP-1 levels were observed in patients of the two groups.Results:After treatment,the BMI,waist circumference and body fat rate of patients in the two groups were all reduced(all P<0.05),and were lower in the observation group than in the control group(all P<0.05);the fasting blood glucose,2 h postprandial blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels of patients in both groups were all decreased(all P<0.05),and were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group(all P<0.05);the TC level was decreased(P<0.05),while the TG and LDL-C levels did not change significantly in the control group(both P>0.05);the TC,TG and LDL-C levels were all significantly reduced in the observation group(all P<0.05),lower than those in the control group(all P<0.05);the serum apelin level was decreased(P<0.05)and the serum GLP-1 level was increased(P<0.05)in the observation group,statistically different from those in the control group(both P<0.05).Conclusion:Combined with the conventional medication,acupoint thread-embedding therapy can significantly improve the obesity-related indicators,glycometabolism and lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with obesity due to dampness-heat encumbering spleen.This may be achieved by regulating the serum apelin and GLP-1 levels.展开更多
Objective： To observe the clinical effect of thread-embedding therapy in treating insomnia due to heart-spleen deficiency. Methods： Sixty patients were randomized into an acupuncture group and a thread-embedding gro...Objective： To observe the clinical effect of thread-embedding therapy in treating insomnia due to heart-spleen deficiency. Methods： Sixty patients were randomized into an acupuncture group and a thread-embedding group, 30 in each. The acupuncture group was managed by acupuncture therapy, and the thread-embedding group was treated by thread-embedding therapy. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index （PSQI） was adopted for evaluation before and after treatments. Results： The total effective rate was 86.7% in the acupuncture group versus 96.7% in the thread-embedding group. After treatment, the PSQI scores were significantly different from those before treatment in both groups （P〈0.01）; the scores in both two groups were mai＇kedly different from each other after treatment （P〈0.01）. Conclusion： Both acupuncture and thread-embedding therapies can effectively improve sleep quality of the patients, while thread-embedding therapy is comparatively less time-consuming, more convenient and with longer stimulation.展开更多
Herpes zoster is a kind of acute herpes viral dermatosis induced by infection of varicella zoster virus, and is characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters. It often occurs in the areas innervated by intercosta...Herpes zoster is a kind of acute herpes viral dermatosis induced by infection of varicella zoster virus, and is characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters. It often occurs in the areas innervated by intercostal, cervical, trigeminal, and lumbosacral nerves. As a feature of this disease, neuralgia happens before or together with the rash, radiating along the innervated areas. Elderly patients commonly suffer from a long-time residual neuralgia展开更多
Instead of filiform needles, micro-invasive thread-embedding therapy treats diseases by burying biomaterials into acupoints to produce a long-time stimulation. It not only achieves a long- term acupoint stimulation, b...Instead of filiform needles, micro-invasive thread-embedding therapy treats diseases by burying biomaterials into acupoints to produce a long-time stimulation. It not only achieves a long- term acupoint stimulation, but also reduces the visiting frequencies and pain of patients^[1]. The method of micro-invasive thread-embedding therapy is now introduced as follows.展开更多
Cancer continues to pose a formidable challenge in global health,with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often resulting in severe toxicities that significantly degrade patients’quality of ...Cancer continues to pose a formidable challenge in global health,with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often resulting in severe toxicities that significantly degrade patients’quality of life and restrict therapeutic outcomes.Addressing this pressing issue,this review presents a thorough and systematic analysis of innovative and emerging strategies designed to minimize the toxicity induced by treatment,while maintaining or even enhancing antitumor efficacy.The focus is on six promising therapeutic approaches:combination therapies utilizing natural bioactive products,molecularly targeted therapies,immunotherapies,nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery systems,adjunct traditional Chinese medicine interventions,and low-dose spatiotemporally concerted regimens.Each approach employs unique mechanisms—such as enhanced targeting precision,immune system activation,tumor microenvironment reprogramming,and multi-component synergistic effects—to mitigate damage to normal tissues and reduce systemic adverse reactions.Despite promising preclinical and clinical advancements,several challenges persist,including drug resistance,high economic costs,a lack of reliable predictive biomarkers,and complexities in clinical translation and regulatory approval.Looking ahead,the incorporation of artificial intelligence,multi-omics profiling,and novel biomimetic nanotechnologies offers unprecedented opportunities for developing highly personalized,low-toxicity treatment frameworks.This review highlights a fundamental shift in oncology towards precision medicine that balances efficacy with safety,demonstrating the transformative potential of these strategies in shaping the future of cancer therapy and enhancing patient care globally.展开更多
An upconversion nanoparticle(NaErF_(4)∶Yb/Tm@NaLuF_(4)∶Yb@NaLuF_(4)∶Nd/Yb@NaLuF_(4),noted as UC)was designed,emitting strong red light by 808 nm laser.The mesoporous silica(mSiO_(2))shell co‑doped with chlorin e6(C...An upconversion nanoparticle(NaErF_(4)∶Yb/Tm@NaLuF_(4)∶Yb@NaLuF_(4)∶Nd/Yb@NaLuF_(4),noted as UC)was designed,emitting strong red light by 808 nm laser.The mesoporous silica(mSiO_(2))shell co‑doped with chlorin e6(Ce6)and triethoxy(1H,1H,2H,2H‑nonafluorohexyl)silane(TFS)was coated on the outer layer of UC,and then a layer of HKUST‑1 shell was coated.The obtained nanocomposite UC@Ce6/TFS@mSiO_(2)@HKUST‑1(noted as UCTSH)was used for the synergistic treatment of chemodynamic therapy(CDT)and photodynamic therapy(PDT).Interestingly,the nanostructures can specifically re lease Cu^(2+)in the acidic tumor microenvironment.Cu^(2+)reacts with excess hydrogen peroxide(H_(2)O_(2))in the tumor microenvironment to form cytotoxic hydroxyl radical.Secondly,Ce6,with the action of oxygen‑carrying TFS,selectively produces a large amount of singlet oxygen by 808 nm laser irradiation.UCTSH can enhance the anti‑tumor effects of PDT and CDT by increasing the production level of reactive oxygen species,without causing damage to normal cells.展开更多
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a significant complication in cancer therapy,limiting treatment efficacy and worsening patient outcomes.Recent studies have implicated the gut microbiome and its key m...BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a significant complication in cancer therapy,limiting treatment efficacy and worsening patient outcomes.Recent studies have implicated the gut microbiome and its key metabolites,such as shortchain fatty acids(SCFAs)and trimethylamine-N-oxide(TMAO),in mediating inflammation,oxidative stress,and cardiac damage.The gut-heart axis is increasingly recognized as a pivotal pathway linking microbiota dysregulation to chemotherapy-related cardiac dysfunction.AIM To systematically review existing evidence on the role of gut microbiome alterations in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity and evaluate emerging microbiome-based therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating cardiovascular risk in cancer patients.METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed,Scopus,and Web of Science for studies published between January 2013 and December 2024.Studies were included if they examined chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in relation to gut microbiota composition,microbial metabolites(e.g.,SCFAs,TMAO),or microbiome-targeted interventions.Selection followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.Data extraction focused on microbiota alterations,mechanistic pathways,cardiac outcomes,and quality assessments using standardized risk-of-bias tools.RESULTS Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria.Chemotherapy was consistently associated with gut dysbiosis characterized by reduced SCFA-producing bacteria and increased TMAO-producing strains.This imbalance contributed to gut barrier disruption,systemic inflammation,and oxidative stress,all of which promote myocardial damage.SCFA depletion weakened anti-inflammatory responses,while elevated TMAO levels exacerbated cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction.Preclinical studies showed promising cardioprotective effects from probiotics,prebiotics,dietary interventions,and fecal microbiota transplantation,though human data remain limited.CONCLUSION Gut microbiome dysregulation plays a crucial role in the development of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity.Altered microbial composition and metabolite production trigger systemic inflammation and cardiac injury.Microbiome-targeted therapies represent a promising preventive and therapeutic approach in cardio-oncology,warranting further clinical validation through well-designed trials.展开更多
Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by arthrosynovitis.The recurrent attacks of synovitis may lead to destruction of articular cartilages and bones,and dysfunction of joints...Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by arthrosynovitis.The recurrent attacks of synovitis may lead to destruction of articular cartilages and bones,and dysfunction of joints.The symptoms are often symmetrical,affecting the small joints such as the interphalangeal joints,wrists,and the metatarsophalangeal joints.The large joints including elbow,shoulder,ankle,and knee may also be involved in severe cases.展开更多
Bone fractures represent a significant global healthcare burden.Although fractures typically heal on their own,some fail to regenerate properly,leading to nonunion,a condition that causes prolonged disability,morbidit...Bone fractures represent a significant global healthcare burden.Although fractures typically heal on their own,some fail to regenerate properly,leading to nonunion,a condition that causes prolonged disability,morbidity,and mortality.The challenge of treating nonunion fractures is further complicated in patients with underlying bone disorders where systemic and local factors impair bone healing.Traditional treatment approaches,including autografts,allografts,xenografts,and synthetic biomaterials,face limitations such as donor site pain,immune rejection,and insufficient mechanical strength,underscoring the need for alternative strategies.Biologic therapies have emerged as promising tools to enhance bone regeneration by leveraging the body’s natural healing processes.This review explores the critical role of conventional and emerging biologics in fracture healing.We categorize biologic therapies into protein-based treatments,gene and transcript therapies,small molecules,peptides,and cell-based therapies,highlighting their mechanisms of action,advantages,and clinical relevance.Finally,we examine the potential applications of biologics in treating fractures associated with bone disorders such as osteoporosis,osteogenesis imperfecta,rickets,osteomalacia,Paget’s disease,and bone tumors.By integrating biologic therapies with existing biomaterial-based strategies,these innovative approaches have the potential to transform clinical management and improve outcomes for patients with difficult-to-heal fractures.展开更多
Novel antibacterial strategies such as antibacterial photodynamic therapy(aPDT)and photothermal therapy(PTT)have gained significant attention,however,relying on a single-treatment approach still faces challenges of in...Novel antibacterial strategies such as antibacterial photodynamic therapy(aPDT)and photothermal therapy(PTT)have gained significant attention,however,relying on a single-treatment approach still faces challenges of insufficient therapeutic efficiency and the potential for drug resistance.In this study,a multimodal synergistic antibacterial nanoplatform by coupling a carbon monoxide(CO)donor(4-(3-hydroxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-2-yl)benzoic acid(4-BA))with carbon dots(CDs)is developed,referred to as CDs-CO,which integrates multiple antibacterial modes of aPDT,PTT,and gas therapy.This nanoplatform is designed for highly efficient antibacterial action with a low risk of inducing drug resistance.CDs are engineered to possess tailored functions,including deep-red light-triggered heat and singlet oxygen(^(1)O_(2))production.After modification with 4-BA and exposure to 660 nm laser irradiation,CDs-CO exhibits favorable photothermal conversion efficiency(η=52.7%),robust ^(1)O_(2) generation,and ^(1)O_(2)-activated CO release.Antibacterial experiments demonstrated the excellent sterilization effects of CDs-CO against both Escherichia coli(E.coli)and Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus),underscoring the enhanced antibacterial efficiency of this multimodal nanoplatform.This study offers a rational approach for designing multimodal synergistic antibacterial platforms,highlighting their potential for effectively treating bacterial infections.展开更多
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading global cause of mortality,projected to increase by 73.4%from 2025 to 2050 despite declining age-standardized rates.Contemporary interventions,such as percutaneous coronary in...Cardiovascular disease remains the leading global cause of mortality,projected to increase by 73.4%from 2025 to 2050 despite declining age-standardized rates.Contemporary interventions,such as percutaneous coronary intervention and statins,reduce major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE)by 25%-30%,yet a 20%five-year MACE risk persists in high-risk cohorts.These approaches,histor-ically focused on luminal stenosis,fail to address systemic atherogenesis drivers like endothelial dysfunction and inflammation.Specifically,dietary linoleic acid restriction(<5 g/day)reduces oxidized low-density lipoprotein by approximately 15%by limiting peroxidation-prone bisallylic bonds,mitigating arterial inflam-mation,a key atherogenic trigger.Enhanced external counterpulsation,through pulsatile shear stress,enhances nitric oxide-mediated coronary perfusion,alle-viating angina in approximately 70%of refractory cases unresponsive to revascu-larization.Nanoparticle-facilitated chelation targets atherosclerotic plaques with precision,reducing calcium content by up to 30%in preclinical models,offering a novel avenue for lesion reversal.These innovations collectively address residual risk by tackling root causes,oxidative stress,endothelial dysfunction,and plaque instability,potentially halving MACE rates with widespread adoption.Despite promising preliminary data,gaps remain in long-term safety and scalability.Robust clinical trials are needed to validate these approaches,which collectively aim to transform cardiovascular disease management by prioritizing prevention and vascular restoration,potentially reducing coronary events to a public health rarity.展开更多
Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs)with high porosity,specific surface area,and unique topologies are highly regarded for their applications in photocatalysis,medical treatment,and environmental pollutant degradation.Howev...Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs)with high porosity,specific surface area,and unique topologies are highly regarded for their applications in photocatalysis,medical treatment,and environmental pollutant degradation.However,due to the limitations of the tumor microenvironment(TME),traditional MOFs have limited efficacy in this environment.This paper designs multi-metal oxide-based heterostructure POMOFs nanoreactors with a nesting doll-like structure.This new structure not only exhibits therapeutic effects in TME but also utilizes ultrasound(US)to enhance the release of reactive oxygen species(ROS)for CDT&SDT co-therapy,becoming an effective sound sensitizer for destroying tumor cells.In summary,our study proposes an idea for constructing multi-metal oxide-based heterostructure MOFs nanoreactors material with a nesting doll-like structure to enhance ROS release and synergistically treat tumor diseases.展开更多
Regenerative medicine is a promising therapeutic avenue for previously incurable diseases.As the risk of chronic and degenerative diseases significantly increases with age,the elderly population represents a major coh...Regenerative medicine is a promising therapeutic avenue for previously incurable diseases.As the risk of chronic and degenerative diseases significantly increases with age,the elderly population represents a major cohort for stem cell-based therapies.However,the regenerative potential of stem cells significantly decreases with advanced age and deteriorating health status of the donor.Therefore,the efficacy of autologous stem cell therapy is significantly compromised in older patients.To overcome these limitations,alternative strategies have been used to restore the age-and disease-depleted function of stem cells.These methods aim to restore the therapeutic efficacy of aged stem cells for autologous use.This article explores the effect of donor age and health status on the regenerative potential of stem cells.It further highlights the limitations of stem cell-based therapy for autologous treatment in the elderly.A comprehensive insight into the potential strategies to address the“age”and“disease”compromised regenerative potential of autologous stem cells is also presented.The information provided here serves as a valuable resource for physicians and patients for optimization of stem cellbased autologous therapy for aged patients.展开更多
Tau plays a crucial role in several neurodegenerative diseases,collectively referred to as tauopathies.Therefore,targeting potential pathological changes in tau could enable useful therapeutic interventions.However,ta...Tau plays a crucial role in several neurodegenerative diseases,collectively referred to as tauopathies.Therefore,targeting potential pathological changes in tau could enable useful therapeutic interventions.However,tau is not an easy target because it dynamically interacts with microtubules and other cellular components,which presents a challenge for tau-targeted drugs.New cellular models could aid the development of mechanism-based tau-targeted therapies.展开更多
Therapy discontinuation in inflammatory bowel disease,particularly involving immunomodulators,biologics,and small molecules,remains a controversial and evolving topic.This letter reflects on developments following the...Therapy discontinuation in inflammatory bowel disease,particularly involving immunomodulators,biologics,and small molecules,remains a controversial and evolving topic.This letter reflects on developments following the publication by Meštrovićet al,emphasizing the complex balance between risks of relapse,antidrug antibody formation,and potential complications of long-term immunosuppression.Recent evidence underscores high relapse rates following withdrawal-especially of anti-tumor necrosis factor agents-and highlights the lack of robust data for newer biologics.Updated guidelines from European Crohn’s and Colitis Organization,British Society of Gastroenterology,and American College of Gastroenterology all support cautious and individualized approaches,with strict criteria and close follow-up,particularly in Crohn’s disease.For ulcerative colitis,therapeutic cycling remains insufficiently addressed.We proposed a flowchart to support clinical decision-making and stress the importance of shared decisionmaking in the era of personalized medicine since,despite new drug classes and evolving strategies,the therapeutic ceiling in inflammatory bowel disease has yet to be fully overcome.展开更多
Dysmenorrhea refers to periodic lower abdominal pain occurring during or around menstruation. It often happens before or during period, occasionally after period, and manifests lower abdominal pain, crampy or distendi...Dysmenorrhea refers to periodic lower abdominal pain occurring during or around menstruation. It often happens before or during period, occasionally after period, and manifests lower abdominal pain, crampy or distending, which may radiate to lumbosacral region, inner thigh and perianal region. Co-occurring symptoms may include pale complexion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and aversion to cold in the whole body or concentrated in lower abdomen. Severe pain can cause prostration or even fainting. Menstrual pain commonly lasts for several hours or 1-2 d, and relieves when menstrual blood flows smoothly.展开更多
Ischemic stroke therapy has long been dominated by strategies aimed at restoring cerebral blood flow. Yet, accumulating evidence suggests that neuronal survival and functional recovery depend not only on reperfusion, ...Ischemic stroke therapy has long been dominated by strategies aimed at restoring cerebral blood flow. Yet, accumulating evidence suggests that neuronal survival and functional recovery depend not only on reperfusion, but also on the resolution of postischemic immune dysregulation. This study(Chen et al., Prog Biochem Biophys, 2026, 53(3): 697-710. DOI:10.3724/j.pibb.2025.0541) a dvances this emerging paradigm by proposing a therapeutic strategy that integrates lesion-specific delivery with active modulation of the inflammatory microenvironment.展开更多
BACKGROUND The liver represents a common site of distant metastasis in patients with esophageal cancer(EC).Conventional chemotherapy(CMT)presents limited efficacy for EC,and EC patients with liver metastases typically...BACKGROUND The liver represents a common site of distant metastasis in patients with esophageal cancer(EC).Conventional chemotherapy(CMT)presents limited efficacy for EC,and EC patients with liver metastases typically experience a poor prognosis,highlighting an urgent need to explore novel treatment approaches.This study evaluated the overall efficacy and safety of CMT vs CMT combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)in the treatment of EC patients with liver metastases.Furthermore,prognostic factors influencing outcomes in this patient population were identified.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of first-line chemoimmunotherapy for EC patients with liver metastases and to analyze prognostic factors.METHODS This retrospective study included 126 EC patients with liver metastases at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital between 2014 and 2024.Patients receiving CMT were compared with those receiving CMT+ICI.Analyzed variables included clinicopathological features,treatment history,characteristics of metastasis,systemic and local treatments,overall survival(OS),and treatment-related adverse events(TRAEs).Prognostic factors were evaluated using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression models.Finally,efficacy outcomes and TRAE profiles were compared between the two groups.RESULTS A significant difference in median OS was identified between the two groups(10.8 months in the CMT group vs 20.8 months in the CMT+ICI group,P=0.004).The CMT+ICI group also demonstrated a significantly longer median progression-free survival of 11.7 months(P<0.001).Patients receiving combination therapy exhibited significantly improved systemic objective response rate and disease control rate.Multivariate analysis identified key factors significantly influencing OS in EC patients with liver metastases:Karnofsky Performance Status score≥70,receipt of local therapy for liver metastases,and the number of cycles of CMT and immunotherapy received.Furthermore,the incidence of TRAEs did not significantly differ between the CMT+ICI and CMT groups.CONCLUSION For EC patients with liver metastases,the combination of CMT and ICIs demonstrates significantly superior efficacy compared with CMT alone,while maintaining manageable TRAEs.展开更多
The development of highly effective therapeutics is a priority in addressing the escalating threat that cancer poses to human health.Cyclodextrins(CDs) with exceptional biocompatibility and devisable structural hierar...The development of highly effective therapeutics is a priority in addressing the escalating threat that cancer poses to human health.Cyclodextrins(CDs) with exceptional biocompatibility and devisable structural hierarchy are emerging as versatile building blocks for engineered drug delivery systems,showing a promising prospect in cancer therapy.CDs enable precise synthesis of functionalized polymers with tailored architectures,endowing their excellent stability and large surface area to prolong drug circulation,enhance solubility,and increase targeting efficiency.Recently,CD-based nanotherapeutics has shown transformative potential in chemotherapy,phototherapy,immunotherapy,gene therapy and other codelivery systems of combination therapy.This review will introduce the types of CD-based nanotherapeutics,systematically summarize their design methods and anticancer application,and further discuss the prospects and challenges,providing a roadmap for advancing CD nanotechnology toward cancer therapeutics.展开更多
Experimental therapies targeting immune and stromal cells,such as mast cells,cancer-associated fibroblasts,dendritic cells,and tumor endothelial cells,in the treatment of gastrointestinal solid tumors pose new and com...Experimental therapies targeting immune and stromal cells,such as mast cells,cancer-associated fibroblasts,dendritic cells,and tumor endothelial cells,in the treatment of gastrointestinal solid tumors pose new and complex surgical and medico-legal challenges.These innovative treatments require that informed consent not be limited to simple acceptance of the medical procedure,but instead reflect a true relational and cognitive process grounded in understanding,free choice,and the ability to revoke consent at any time.In particular,it is essential that the patient understands the experimental nature of the therapy,its development stage,potential benefits and risks,as well as the implications for their health and personal dignity.In the case of stromal cell-based treatments,which may exert complex immunomodulatory effects or activate angiogenic pathways that are not yet fully understood,patients must be made fully aware that they are participating in a non-standardized therapy whose outcomes,whether beneficial or harmful,cannot yet be predicted with certainty.This requires particularly careful medical communication,using simple yet scientifically accurate explanations delivered in appropriate language,along with a final verification of the patient’s actual understanding.展开更多
文摘Objective:To observe the effects of acupoint thread-embedding therapy on serum apelin and glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1)in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with obesity due to dampness-heat encumbering spleen.Methods:Sixty-six patients were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group according to the random number table method,with 33 cases in each group.Patients in the control group were treated with exenatide and metformin,while patients in the observation group were treated with additional acupoint thread-embedding.After 12-week treatment,the obesity-related indicators,including body mass index(BMI),waist circumference and body fat rate,the glycometabolism indicators,including fasting blood glucose,2 h postprandial blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin,and the lipid metabolism indicators,including total cholesterol(TC),triglyceride(TG)and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),as well as serum apelin and GLP-1 levels were observed in patients of the two groups.Results:After treatment,the BMI,waist circumference and body fat rate of patients in the two groups were all reduced(all P<0.05),and were lower in the observation group than in the control group(all P<0.05);the fasting blood glucose,2 h postprandial blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels of patients in both groups were all decreased(all P<0.05),and were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group(all P<0.05);the TC level was decreased(P<0.05),while the TG and LDL-C levels did not change significantly in the control group(both P>0.05);the TC,TG and LDL-C levels were all significantly reduced in the observation group(all P<0.05),lower than those in the control group(all P<0.05);the serum apelin level was decreased(P<0.05)and the serum GLP-1 level was increased(P<0.05)in the observation group,statistically different from those in the control group(both P<0.05).Conclusion:Combined with the conventional medication,acupoint thread-embedding therapy can significantly improve the obesity-related indicators,glycometabolism and lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with obesity due to dampness-heat encumbering spleen.This may be achieved by regulating the serum apelin and GLP-1 levels.
文摘Objective： To observe the clinical effect of thread-embedding therapy in treating insomnia due to heart-spleen deficiency. Methods： Sixty patients were randomized into an acupuncture group and a thread-embedding group, 30 in each. The acupuncture group was managed by acupuncture therapy, and the thread-embedding group was treated by thread-embedding therapy. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index （PSQI） was adopted for evaluation before and after treatments. Results： The total effective rate was 86.7% in the acupuncture group versus 96.7% in the thread-embedding group. After treatment, the PSQI scores were significantly different from those before treatment in both groups （P〈0.01）; the scores in both two groups were mai＇kedly different from each other after treatment （P〈0.01）. Conclusion： Both acupuncture and thread-embedding therapies can effectively improve sleep quality of the patients, while thread-embedding therapy is comparatively less time-consuming, more convenient and with longer stimulation.
文摘Herpes zoster is a kind of acute herpes viral dermatosis induced by infection of varicella zoster virus, and is characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters. It often occurs in the areas innervated by intercostal, cervical, trigeminal, and lumbosacral nerves. As a feature of this disease, neuralgia happens before or together with the rash, radiating along the innervated areas. Elderly patients commonly suffer from a long-time residual neuralgia
文摘Instead of filiform needles, micro-invasive thread-embedding therapy treats diseases by burying biomaterials into acupoints to produce a long-time stimulation. It not only achieves a long- term acupoint stimulation, but also reduces the visiting frequencies and pain of patients^[1]. The method of micro-invasive thread-embedding therapy is now introduced as follows.
文摘Cancer continues to pose a formidable challenge in global health,with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often resulting in severe toxicities that significantly degrade patients’quality of life and restrict therapeutic outcomes.Addressing this pressing issue,this review presents a thorough and systematic analysis of innovative and emerging strategies designed to minimize the toxicity induced by treatment,while maintaining or even enhancing antitumor efficacy.The focus is on six promising therapeutic approaches:combination therapies utilizing natural bioactive products,molecularly targeted therapies,immunotherapies,nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery systems,adjunct traditional Chinese medicine interventions,and low-dose spatiotemporally concerted regimens.Each approach employs unique mechanisms—such as enhanced targeting precision,immune system activation,tumor microenvironment reprogramming,and multi-component synergistic effects—to mitigate damage to normal tissues and reduce systemic adverse reactions.Despite promising preclinical and clinical advancements,several challenges persist,including drug resistance,high economic costs,a lack of reliable predictive biomarkers,and complexities in clinical translation and regulatory approval.Looking ahead,the incorporation of artificial intelligence,multi-omics profiling,and novel biomimetic nanotechnologies offers unprecedented opportunities for developing highly personalized,low-toxicity treatment frameworks.This review highlights a fundamental shift in oncology towards precision medicine that balances efficacy with safety,demonstrating the transformative potential of these strategies in shaping the future of cancer therapy and enhancing patient care globally.
文摘An upconversion nanoparticle(NaErF_(4)∶Yb/Tm@NaLuF_(4)∶Yb@NaLuF_(4)∶Nd/Yb@NaLuF_(4),noted as UC)was designed,emitting strong red light by 808 nm laser.The mesoporous silica(mSiO_(2))shell co‑doped with chlorin e6(Ce6)and triethoxy(1H,1H,2H,2H‑nonafluorohexyl)silane(TFS)was coated on the outer layer of UC,and then a layer of HKUST‑1 shell was coated.The obtained nanocomposite UC@Ce6/TFS@mSiO_(2)@HKUST‑1(noted as UCTSH)was used for the synergistic treatment of chemodynamic therapy(CDT)and photodynamic therapy(PDT).Interestingly,the nanostructures can specifically re lease Cu^(2+)in the acidic tumor microenvironment.Cu^(2+)reacts with excess hydrogen peroxide(H_(2)O_(2))in the tumor microenvironment to form cytotoxic hydroxyl radical.Secondly,Ce6,with the action of oxygen‑carrying TFS,selectively produces a large amount of singlet oxygen by 808 nm laser irradiation.UCTSH can enhance the anti‑tumor effects of PDT and CDT by increasing the production level of reactive oxygen species,without causing damage to normal cells.
文摘BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a significant complication in cancer therapy,limiting treatment efficacy and worsening patient outcomes.Recent studies have implicated the gut microbiome and its key metabolites,such as shortchain fatty acids(SCFAs)and trimethylamine-N-oxide(TMAO),in mediating inflammation,oxidative stress,and cardiac damage.The gut-heart axis is increasingly recognized as a pivotal pathway linking microbiota dysregulation to chemotherapy-related cardiac dysfunction.AIM To systematically review existing evidence on the role of gut microbiome alterations in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity and evaluate emerging microbiome-based therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating cardiovascular risk in cancer patients.METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed,Scopus,and Web of Science for studies published between January 2013 and December 2024.Studies were included if they examined chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in relation to gut microbiota composition,microbial metabolites(e.g.,SCFAs,TMAO),or microbiome-targeted interventions.Selection followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.Data extraction focused on microbiota alterations,mechanistic pathways,cardiac outcomes,and quality assessments using standardized risk-of-bias tools.RESULTS Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria.Chemotherapy was consistently associated with gut dysbiosis characterized by reduced SCFA-producing bacteria and increased TMAO-producing strains.This imbalance contributed to gut barrier disruption,systemic inflammation,and oxidative stress,all of which promote myocardial damage.SCFA depletion weakened anti-inflammatory responses,while elevated TMAO levels exacerbated cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction.Preclinical studies showed promising cardioprotective effects from probiotics,prebiotics,dietary interventions,and fecal microbiota transplantation,though human data remain limited.CONCLUSION Gut microbiome dysregulation plays a crucial role in the development of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity.Altered microbial composition and metabolite production trigger systemic inflammation and cardiac injury.Microbiome-targeted therapies represent a promising preventive and therapeutic approach in cardio-oncology,warranting further clinical validation through well-designed trials.
文摘Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by arthrosynovitis.The recurrent attacks of synovitis may lead to destruction of articular cartilages and bones,and dysfunction of joints.The symptoms are often symmetrical,affecting the small joints such as the interphalangeal joints,wrists,and the metatarsophalangeal joints.The large joints including elbow,shoulder,ankle,and knee may also be involved in severe cases.
基金performed as part of the cmRNAbone project funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Grant Agreement No 874790。
文摘Bone fractures represent a significant global healthcare burden.Although fractures typically heal on their own,some fail to regenerate properly,leading to nonunion,a condition that causes prolonged disability,morbidity,and mortality.The challenge of treating nonunion fractures is further complicated in patients with underlying bone disorders where systemic and local factors impair bone healing.Traditional treatment approaches,including autografts,allografts,xenografts,and synthetic biomaterials,face limitations such as donor site pain,immune rejection,and insufficient mechanical strength,underscoring the need for alternative strategies.Biologic therapies have emerged as promising tools to enhance bone regeneration by leveraging the body’s natural healing processes.This review explores the critical role of conventional and emerging biologics in fracture healing.We categorize biologic therapies into protein-based treatments,gene and transcript therapies,small molecules,peptides,and cell-based therapies,highlighting their mechanisms of action,advantages,and clinical relevance.Finally,we examine the potential applications of biologics in treating fractures associated with bone disorders such as osteoporosis,osteogenesis imperfecta,rickets,osteomalacia,Paget’s disease,and bone tumors.By integrating biologic therapies with existing biomaterial-based strategies,these innovative approaches have the potential to transform clinical management and improve outcomes for patients with difficult-to-heal fractures.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52173126)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2024M751152).
文摘Novel antibacterial strategies such as antibacterial photodynamic therapy(aPDT)and photothermal therapy(PTT)have gained significant attention,however,relying on a single-treatment approach still faces challenges of insufficient therapeutic efficiency and the potential for drug resistance.In this study,a multimodal synergistic antibacterial nanoplatform by coupling a carbon monoxide(CO)donor(4-(3-hydroxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-2-yl)benzoic acid(4-BA))with carbon dots(CDs)is developed,referred to as CDs-CO,which integrates multiple antibacterial modes of aPDT,PTT,and gas therapy.This nanoplatform is designed for highly efficient antibacterial action with a low risk of inducing drug resistance.CDs are engineered to possess tailored functions,including deep-red light-triggered heat and singlet oxygen(^(1)O_(2))production.After modification with 4-BA and exposure to 660 nm laser irradiation,CDs-CO exhibits favorable photothermal conversion efficiency(η=52.7%),robust ^(1)O_(2) generation,and ^(1)O_(2)-activated CO release.Antibacterial experiments demonstrated the excellent sterilization effects of CDs-CO against both Escherichia coli(E.coli)and Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus),underscoring the enhanced antibacterial efficiency of this multimodal nanoplatform.This study offers a rational approach for designing multimodal synergistic antibacterial platforms,highlighting their potential for effectively treating bacterial infections.
文摘Cardiovascular disease remains the leading global cause of mortality,projected to increase by 73.4%from 2025 to 2050 despite declining age-standardized rates.Contemporary interventions,such as percutaneous coronary intervention and statins,reduce major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE)by 25%-30%,yet a 20%five-year MACE risk persists in high-risk cohorts.These approaches,histor-ically focused on luminal stenosis,fail to address systemic atherogenesis drivers like endothelial dysfunction and inflammation.Specifically,dietary linoleic acid restriction(<5 g/day)reduces oxidized low-density lipoprotein by approximately 15%by limiting peroxidation-prone bisallylic bonds,mitigating arterial inflam-mation,a key atherogenic trigger.Enhanced external counterpulsation,through pulsatile shear stress,enhances nitric oxide-mediated coronary perfusion,alle-viating angina in approximately 70%of refractory cases unresponsive to revascu-larization.Nanoparticle-facilitated chelation targets atherosclerotic plaques with precision,reducing calcium content by up to 30%in preclinical models,offering a novel avenue for lesion reversal.These innovations collectively address residual risk by tackling root causes,oxidative stress,endothelial dysfunction,and plaque instability,potentially halving MACE rates with widespread adoption.Despite promising preliminary data,gaps remain in long-term safety and scalability.Robust clinical trials are needed to validate these approaches,which collectively aim to transform cardiovascular disease management by prioritizing prevention and vascular restoration,potentially reducing coronary events to a public health rarity.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52372264,32271609and 52473109)+2 种基金The Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China(No.LH2023B002)The Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2572023CT12)Undergraduate Training Programs for Innovations by NEFU(No.202310225565)。
文摘Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs)with high porosity,specific surface area,and unique topologies are highly regarded for their applications in photocatalysis,medical treatment,and environmental pollutant degradation.However,due to the limitations of the tumor microenvironment(TME),traditional MOFs have limited efficacy in this environment.This paper designs multi-metal oxide-based heterostructure POMOFs nanoreactors with a nesting doll-like structure.This new structure not only exhibits therapeutic effects in TME but also utilizes ultrasound(US)to enhance the release of reactive oxygen species(ROS)for CDT&SDT co-therapy,becoming an effective sound sensitizer for destroying tumor cells.In summary,our study proposes an idea for constructing multi-metal oxide-based heterostructure MOFs nanoreactors material with a nesting doll-like structure to enhance ROS release and synergistically treat tumor diseases.
文摘Regenerative medicine is a promising therapeutic avenue for previously incurable diseases.As the risk of chronic and degenerative diseases significantly increases with age,the elderly population represents a major cohort for stem cell-based therapies.However,the regenerative potential of stem cells significantly decreases with advanced age and deteriorating health status of the donor.Therefore,the efficacy of autologous stem cell therapy is significantly compromised in older patients.To overcome these limitations,alternative strategies have been used to restore the age-and disease-depleted function of stem cells.These methods aim to restore the therapeutic efficacy of aged stem cells for autologous use.This article explores the effect of donor age and health status on the regenerative potential of stem cells.It further highlights the limitations of stem cell-based therapy for autologous treatment in the elderly.A comprehensive insight into the potential strategies to address the“age”and“disease”compromised regenerative potential of autologous stem cells is also presented.The information provided here serves as a valuable resource for physicians and patients for optimization of stem cellbased autologous therapy for aged patients.
文摘Tau plays a crucial role in several neurodegenerative diseases,collectively referred to as tauopathies.Therefore,targeting potential pathological changes in tau could enable useful therapeutic interventions.However,tau is not an easy target because it dynamically interacts with microtubules and other cellular components,which presents a challenge for tau-targeted drugs.New cellular models could aid the development of mechanism-based tau-targeted therapies.
文摘Therapy discontinuation in inflammatory bowel disease,particularly involving immunomodulators,biologics,and small molecules,remains a controversial and evolving topic.This letter reflects on developments following the publication by Meštrovićet al,emphasizing the complex balance between risks of relapse,antidrug antibody formation,and potential complications of long-term immunosuppression.Recent evidence underscores high relapse rates following withdrawal-especially of anti-tumor necrosis factor agents-and highlights the lack of robust data for newer biologics.Updated guidelines from European Crohn’s and Colitis Organization,British Society of Gastroenterology,and American College of Gastroenterology all support cautious and individualized approaches,with strict criteria and close follow-up,particularly in Crohn’s disease.For ulcerative colitis,therapeutic cycling remains insufficiently addressed.We proposed a flowchart to support clinical decision-making and stress the importance of shared decisionmaking in the era of personalized medicine since,despite new drug classes and evolving strategies,the therapeutic ceiling in inflammatory bowel disease has yet to be fully overcome.
文摘Dysmenorrhea refers to periodic lower abdominal pain occurring during or around menstruation. It often happens before or during period, occasionally after period, and manifests lower abdominal pain, crampy or distending, which may radiate to lumbosacral region, inner thigh and perianal region. Co-occurring symptoms may include pale complexion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and aversion to cold in the whole body or concentrated in lower abdomen. Severe pain can cause prostration or even fainting. Menstrual pain commonly lasts for several hours or 1-2 d, and relieves when menstrual blood flows smoothly.
文摘Ischemic stroke therapy has long been dominated by strategies aimed at restoring cerebral blood flow. Yet, accumulating evidence suggests that neuronal survival and functional recovery depend not only on reperfusion, but also on the resolution of postischemic immune dysregulation. This study(Chen et al., Prog Biochem Biophys, 2026, 53(3): 697-710. DOI:10.3724/j.pibb.2025.0541) a dvances this emerging paradigm by proposing a therapeutic strategy that integrates lesion-specific delivery with active modulation of the inflammatory microenvironment.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82303672Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission and Zhejiang Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine through the Targeted Project for Medical and Health Research,No.2025ZL017and China Primary Health Care Foundation,No.ZLMY20240311001ZJ.
文摘BACKGROUND The liver represents a common site of distant metastasis in patients with esophageal cancer(EC).Conventional chemotherapy(CMT)presents limited efficacy for EC,and EC patients with liver metastases typically experience a poor prognosis,highlighting an urgent need to explore novel treatment approaches.This study evaluated the overall efficacy and safety of CMT vs CMT combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)in the treatment of EC patients with liver metastases.Furthermore,prognostic factors influencing outcomes in this patient population were identified.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of first-line chemoimmunotherapy for EC patients with liver metastases and to analyze prognostic factors.METHODS This retrospective study included 126 EC patients with liver metastases at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital between 2014 and 2024.Patients receiving CMT were compared with those receiving CMT+ICI.Analyzed variables included clinicopathological features,treatment history,characteristics of metastasis,systemic and local treatments,overall survival(OS),and treatment-related adverse events(TRAEs).Prognostic factors were evaluated using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression models.Finally,efficacy outcomes and TRAE profiles were compared between the two groups.RESULTS A significant difference in median OS was identified between the two groups(10.8 months in the CMT group vs 20.8 months in the CMT+ICI group,P=0.004).The CMT+ICI group also demonstrated a significantly longer median progression-free survival of 11.7 months(P<0.001).Patients receiving combination therapy exhibited significantly improved systemic objective response rate and disease control rate.Multivariate analysis identified key factors significantly influencing OS in EC patients with liver metastases:Karnofsky Performance Status score≥70,receipt of local therapy for liver metastases,and the number of cycles of CMT and immunotherapy received.Furthermore,the incidence of TRAEs did not significantly differ between the CMT+ICI and CMT groups.CONCLUSION For EC patients with liver metastases,the combination of CMT and ICIs demonstrates significantly superior efficacy compared with CMT alone,while maintaining manageable TRAEs.
基金financially supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.3240117,X.S)Sichuan Science and Technology Program (No.2024YFFK0345,Z.X)+3 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing (No.CSTB2024NSCQ-MSX0046,F.R)Startup Fund of Chongqing Normal University (No.23XLB036,F.R)National College Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program of Southwest University (No.202410635109,Y.Z)Guangdong High-level Hospital Construction Fund。
文摘The development of highly effective therapeutics is a priority in addressing the escalating threat that cancer poses to human health.Cyclodextrins(CDs) with exceptional biocompatibility and devisable structural hierarchy are emerging as versatile building blocks for engineered drug delivery systems,showing a promising prospect in cancer therapy.CDs enable precise synthesis of functionalized polymers with tailored architectures,endowing their excellent stability and large surface area to prolong drug circulation,enhance solubility,and increase targeting efficiency.Recently,CD-based nanotherapeutics has shown transformative potential in chemotherapy,phototherapy,immunotherapy,gene therapy and other codelivery systems of combination therapy.This review will introduce the types of CD-based nanotherapeutics,systematically summarize their design methods and anticancer application,and further discuss the prospects and challenges,providing a roadmap for advancing CD nanotechnology toward cancer therapeutics.
文摘Experimental therapies targeting immune and stromal cells,such as mast cells,cancer-associated fibroblasts,dendritic cells,and tumor endothelial cells,in the treatment of gastrointestinal solid tumors pose new and complex surgical and medico-legal challenges.These innovative treatments require that informed consent not be limited to simple acceptance of the medical procedure,but instead reflect a true relational and cognitive process grounded in understanding,free choice,and the ability to revoke consent at any time.In particular,it is essential that the patient understands the experimental nature of the therapy,its development stage,potential benefits and risks,as well as the implications for their health and personal dignity.In the case of stromal cell-based treatments,which may exert complex immunomodulatory effects or activate angiogenic pathways that are not yet fully understood,patients must be made fully aware that they are participating in a non-standardized therapy whose outcomes,whether beneficial or harmful,cannot yet be predicted with certainty.This requires particularly careful medical communication,using simple yet scientifically accurate explanations delivered in appropriate language,along with a final verification of the patient’s actual understanding.
