Background:The medicinal material known as Os Draconis(Longgu)originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions.However,fossil resources are nonrenewa...Background:The medicinal material known as Os Draconis(Longgu)originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions.However,fossil resources are nonrenewable,and clinical demand is increasingly difficult to meet,leading to a proliferation of counterfeit products.During prolonged geological burial,static pressure from the surrounding strata severely compromises the microstructural integrity of osteons in Os Draconis,but Os Draconis still largely retains the structural features of mammalian bone.Methods:Using verified authentic Os Draconis samples over 10,000 years old as a baseline,this study summarizes the ultrastructural characteristics of genuine Os Draconis.Employing electron probe microanalysis and optical polarized light microscopy,we examined 28 batches of authentic Os Draconis and 31 batches of counterfeits to identify their ultrastructural differences.Key points for ultrastructural identification of Os Draconis were compiled,and a new identification approach was proposed based on these differences.Results:Authentic Os Draconis exhibited distinct ultrastructural markers:irregularly shaped osteons with traversing fissures,deformed/displaced Haversian canals,and secondary mineral infill(predominantly calcium carbonate).Counterfeits showed regular osteon arrangements,absent traversal fissures,and homogeneous hydroxyapatite composition.Lab-simulated samples lacked structural degradation features.EPMA confirmed calcium carbonate infill in fossilized Haversian canals,while elemental profiles differentiated lacunae types(void vs.mineral-packed).Conclusion:The study established ultrastructural criteria for authentic Os Draconis identification:osteon deformation,geological fissures penetrating bone units,and heterogenous mineral deposition.These features,unattainable in counterfeits or modern processed bones,provide a cost-effective,accurate identification method.This approach bridges gaps in TCM material standardization and supports quality control for clinical applications.展开更多
This study aimed to investigate aquaporin 4 expression and the ultrastructure of the blood-brain barrier at 2-72 hours following cerebral contusion injury, and correlate these changes to the formation of brain edema. ...This study aimed to investigate aquaporin 4 expression and the ultrastructure of the blood-brain barrier at 2-72 hours following cerebral contusion injury, and correlate these changes to the formation of brain edema. Results revealed that at 2 hours after cerebral contusion and laceration injury, aquaporin 4 expression significantly increased, brain water content and blood-brain barrier permeability increased, and the number of pinocytotic vesicles in cerebral microvascular endothelia cells increased. In addition, the mitochondrial accumulation was observed. As contusion and laceration injury became aggravated, aquaporin 4 expression continued to increase, brain water content and blood-brain barrier permeability gradually increased, brain capillary endothelial cells and astrocytes swelled, and capillary basement membrane injury gradually increased. The above changes were most apparent at 12 hours after injury, after which they gradually attenuated. Aquaporin 4 expression positively correlated with brain water content and the blood-brain barrier index. Our experimental findings indicate that increasing aquaporin 4 expression and blood-brain barrier permeability after cerebral contusion and laceration injury in humans is involved in the formation of brain edema.展开更多
We established a stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rat model by bilateral constriction of the renal artery with sliver loop clips. After ten weeks, middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced for 2 hours. The ra...We established a stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rat model by bilateral constriction of the renal artery with sliver loop clips. After ten weeks, middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced for 2 hours. The rats then received electro-acupuncture at Baihui （DU 20） and Dazhui （DU 14） after onset of ischemia for 30 days. In situ hybridization study showed that electroacupuncture significantly reduced the number of neurocan mRNA-positive cells in the ischemic penumbra and hippocampal tissues of rats. Electron microscopy results demonstrated that the structure of neurons and blood vessels in the ischemic tissues were restored with electroacupuncture. Overall, these data suggest that electroacupuncture may protect neurons against ischemic reperfusion injury in stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rats, which may be regulated by downregulation of expression of nerve inhibitory factor neurocan mRNA.展开更多
Rhododendron micranthum Turcz.is a shrub esteemed for its ornamental and medicinal attributes within the Changbai Mountain range of China.We selected 3-year saplings and subjected them to four distinct light condi-tio...Rhododendron micranthum Turcz.is a shrub esteemed for its ornamental and medicinal attributes within the Changbai Mountain range of China.We selected 3-year saplings and subjected them to four distinct light condi-tions:full light(CK),70%light(L1),50%light(L2),and 30%light(L3)to investigate variations in morphology,photosynthetic responses,stomatal ultrastructure as well as the mechanisms through which these saplings adapt to differing lighting environments.The results indicate that L2 leaves exhibit significantly greater length,width,and petiole development compared to other treatments across varying intensities.Over time,chlorophyll content and PSII levels in L2-treated saplings surpass those observed in other treatments;Proline(PRO),malondialdehyde(MDA),and soluble protein(SP)contents are markedly lower under L2 treatment.Catalase(CAT)and superoxide dismutase(SOD)demonstrate significant correlations across various light con-ditions but respond differently among treatments,indicat-ing distinct species sensitivities to light intensity while both contribute to environmental stress resistance mechanisms.Findings reveal that R.micranthum saplings at 50%light intensity benefit from enhanced protection via antioxidant enzymes,and shading reduces osmotic adjustment sub-stances yet increases chlorophyll content.Stomatal length/width along with conductance rates and net photosynthesis rates for L2 exceed those of CK,suggesting an improved photosynthetic structure conducive to efficient photosynthe-sis under this condition.Thus,moderate shading represents optimal growth at 50%illumination,a critical factor promot-ing sapling development.This research elucidates the ideal environment for R.micranthum adaptation to varying light conditions supporting future conservation initiatives.展开更多
The giant triton snail Charonia tritonis is a marine large carnivorous gastropoda inhabiting in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.Their splendid and highly organized Charonia tritonis shells are attractive;however few studies ha...The giant triton snail Charonia tritonis is a marine large carnivorous gastropoda inhabiting in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.Their splendid and highly organized Charonia tritonis shells are attractive;however few studies have been conducted on shell ultra-structure and pigmentation.The arrangements of crossed-lamellar structures were distinctive for the giant triton snail shell,showing three layers of mineral structures in the cross-section.The 1st-order and 2nd-order lamellae of the shell were around 10-20μm and the crystals in outer layers intersected at right angles in this species.They were identified as aragonite crystals by Raman scattering,and granular organic matrix were attached to the aragonite mineral phase closely.Furthermore,the dominant Raman spectra from polyene pigments in the shell were characterized at wavenumbers of 1123 cm^(-1)and 1504 cm^(-1),assigned to stretching vibrations of carbon-carbon single(C-C)and double(C=C)bonds,and the polyene chain was confirmed with 11-12 C-C bonds and 12-13 conju-gated C=C bonds.The research will lay a foundation for exploring the relationship between the calcareous shell and the formation of shell color in the giant triton snail.展开更多
BACKGROUND： Infusion of kainic acid into the basal nuclei induces neuronal excitotoxicity, degeneration and necrosis, resulting in disturbed learning and memory functions. OBJECTIVE： To explore the effects of differ...BACKGROUND： Infusion of kainic acid into the basal nuclei induces neuronal excitotoxicity, degeneration and necrosis, resulting in disturbed learning and memory functions. OBJECTIVE： To explore the effects of different doses of traditional Chinese medicine Daicong solution on brain ultrastructure in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized, controlled, cellular morphology experiment was performed at the Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology of Weifang Medical University, China from October 2006 to March 2007. MATERIALS： Fifty healthy, Sprague Dawley rats, aged 22-months, were used to establish rat models of Alzheimer＇s disease. The Morris water maze was prepared at the Pharmacometrics Key Laboratory of Weifang Medical University in Shandong Province of China. Traditional Chinese medicine Daicong solution （crude drug 1 g/mL）, composed of radix ginseng, rehmannia dried rhizome, anemarrhenae and radix astragali, was produced by the Department of Pharmacy of Hospital Affiliated to Weifang Medical University. Kainic acid was provided by Professor Xiuyan Li from Weifang Medical University. METHODS： A total of 40 model rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups： dementia model, low-dose Daicong solution （5 g/kg/d）, moderate-dose Daicong solution （10 g/kg/d）, and high-dose Daicong solution （20 g/kg/d）. An additional 10 healthy rats served as the normal control group. Rats in the dementia model and normal control groups received saline （10 mL/kg/d）. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Neural cell ultrastructure was observed utilizing electron microscopy after 1 month of respective treatments. RESULTS： Compared with the normal control group, electron density and the number of ribosomes were significantly reduced in neuronal cytoplasm, and many lipofuscin grains and vacuole-like changes were observed in mitochondria in the dementia model group. In addition, nuclear chromatin presented with different sizes of plaque-shaped degenerative pathological changes. In the Alzheimer＇s disease rat model, neurons and neuroepithelial cells recovered to normal conditions following treatment with moderate- and high-dose Daicong solution. In the low-dose Daicong group, the condition was slightly improved, but the cytopathic effects were still significant. CONCLUSION： Daicong solution significantly improved neuronal and neuroepithelial pathological ultrastructure in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease.展开更多
Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide.It is characterized by a highly interconnected and multiphasic neuropathological cascade of events,in which an intense and protracted inflammatory response pla...Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide.It is characterized by a highly interconnected and multiphasic neuropathological cascade of events,in which an intense and protracted inflammatory response plays a crucial role in worsening brain injury.Neuroinflammation,a key player in the pathophysiology of stroke,has a dual role.In the acute phase of stroke,neuroinflammation exacerbates brain injury,contributing to neuronal damage and blood–brain barrier disruption.This aspect of neuroinflammation is associated with poor neurological outcomes.Conversely,in the recovery phase following stroke,neuroinflammation facilitates brain repair processes,including neurogenesis,angiogenesis,and synaptic plasticity.The transition of neuroinflammation from a harmful to a reparative role is not well understood.Therefore,this review seeks to explore the mechanisms underlying this transition,with the goal of informing the development of therapeutic interventions that are both time-and context-specific.This review aims to elucidate the complex and dual role of neuroinflammation in stroke,highlighting the main actors,biomarkers of the disease,and potential therapeutic approaches.展开更多
Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microgl...Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microglia play an important role in secondary injury and can be activated in response to traumatic brain injury.In this article,we review the origin and classification of microglia as well as the dynamic changes of microglia in traumatic brain injury.We also clarify the microglial polarization pathways and the therapeutic drugs targeting activated microglia.We found that regulating the signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microglia,such as the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinase,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B,Notch,and high mobility group box 1 pathways,can alleviate the inflammatory response triggered by microglia in traumatic brain injury,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.We also reviewed the strategies developed on the basis of these pathways,such as drug and cell replacement therapies.Drugs that modulate inflammatory factors,such as rosuvastatin,have been shown to promote the polarization of antiinflammatory microglia and reduce the inflammatory response caused by traumatic brain injury.Mesenchymal stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties,and clinical studies have confirmed their significant efficacy and safety in patients with traumatic brain injury.Additionally,advancements in mesenchymal stem cell-delivery methods—such as combinations of novel biomaterials,genetic engineering,and mesenchymal stem cell exosome therapy—have greatly enhanced the efficiency and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models.However,numerous challenges in the application of drug and mesenchymal stem cell treatment strategies remain to be addressed.In the future,new technologies,such as single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis,can facilitate further experimental studies.Moreover,research involving non-human primates can help translate these treatment strategies to clinical practice.展开更多
Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most dangerous subtype of stroke,characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates,and frequently leads to significant secondary white matter injury.In recent decades,studies have rev...Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most dangerous subtype of stroke,characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates,and frequently leads to significant secondary white matter injury.In recent decades,studies have revealed that gut microbiota can communicate bidirectionally with the brain through the gut microbiota–brain axis.This axis indicates that gut microbiota is closely related to the development and prognosis of intracerebral hemorrhage and its associated secondary white matter injury.The NACHT,LRR,and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in this context.This review summarizes the dysbiosis of gut microbiota following intracerebral hemorrhage and explores the mechanisms by which this imbalance may promote the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.These mechanisms include metabolic pathways(involving short-chain fatty acids,lipopolysaccharides,lactic acid,bile acids,trimethylamine-N-oxide,and tryptophan),neural pathways(such as the vagus nerve and sympathetic nerve),and immune pathways(involving microglia and T cells).We then discuss the relationship between the activated NLRP3 inflammasome and secondary white matter injury after intracerebral hemorrhage.The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome can exacerbate secondary white matter injury by disrupting the blood–brain barrier,inducing neuroinflammation,and interfering with nerve regeneration.Finally,we outline potential treatment strategies for intracerebral hemorrhage and its secondary white matter injury.Our review highlights the critical role of the gut microbiota–brain axis and the NLRP3 inflammasome in white matter injury following intracerebral hemorrhage,paving the way for exploring potential therapeutic approaches.展开更多
Background:Brain volume measurement serves as a critical approach for assessing brain health status.Considering the close biological connection between the eyes and brain,this study aims to investigate the feasibility...Background:Brain volume measurement serves as a critical approach for assessing brain health status.Considering the close biological connection between the eyes and brain,this study aims to investigate the feasibility of estimating brain volume through retinal fundus imaging integrated with clinical metadata,and to offer a cost-effective approach for assessing brain health.Methods:Based on clinical information,retinal fundus images,and neuroimaging data derived from a multicenter,population-based cohort study,the Kai Luan Study,we proposed a cross-modal correlation representation(CMCR)network to elucidate the intricate co-degenerative relationships between the eyes and brain for 755 subjects.Specifically,individual clinical information,which has been followed up for as long as 12 years,was encoded as a prompt to enhance the accuracy of brain volume estimation.Independent internal validation and external validation were performed to assess the robustness of the proposed model.Root mean square error(RMSE),peak signal-tonoise ratio(PSNR),and structural similarity index measure(SSIM)metrics were employed to quantitatively evaluate the quality of synthetic brain images derived from retinal imaging data.Results:The proposed framework yielded average RMSE,PSNR,and SSIM values of 98.23,35.78 d B,and 0.64,respectively,which significantly outperformed 5 other methods:multi-channel Variational Autoencoder(mcVAE),Pixelto-Pixel(Pixel2pixel),transformer-based U-Net(Trans UNet),multi-scale transformer network(MT-Net),and residual vision transformer(ResViT).The two-(2D)and three-dimensional(3D)visualization results showed that the shape and texture of the synthetic brain images generated by the proposed method most closely resembled those of actual brain images.Thus,the CMCR framework accurately captured the latent structural correlations between the fundus and the brain.The average difference between predicted and actual brain volumes was 61.36 cm~3,with a relative error of 4.54%.When all of the clinical information(including age and sex,daily habits,cardiovascular factors,metabolic factors,and inflammatory factors)was encoded,the difference was decreased to 53.89 cm~3,with a relative error of 3.98%.Based on the synthesized brain magnetic resonance images from retinal fundus images,the volumes of brain tissues could be estimated with high accuracy.Conclusion:This study provides an innovative,accurate,and cost-effective approach to characterize brain health status through readily accessible retinal fundus images.展开更多
Obese individuals who subsequently sustain a traumatic brain injury(TBI)exhibit worsened outcomes including longer periods of rehabilitation(Eagle et al.,2023).In obese individuals,prolonged symptomology is associated...Obese individuals who subsequently sustain a traumatic brain injury(TBI)exhibit worsened outcomes including longer periods of rehabilitation(Eagle et al.,2023).In obese individuals,prolonged symptomology is associated with increased levels of circulato ry pro-inflammatory marke rs up to 1 year postTBI(Eagle et al.,2023).展开更多
Quantonenpollenites,a pollen taxon which was assumed to be angiosperm,is of great significance in confirming the geological age of its bearing strata.Aims to clarify the taxonomic affiliation of Quantonenpollenites,we...Quantonenpollenites,a pollen taxon which was assumed to be angiosperm,is of great significance in confirming the geological age of its bearing strata.Aims to clarify the taxonomic affiliation of Quantonenpollenites,we investigated the external morphology and internal structure using Light Microscopy(LM),Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM),and Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM).According to TEM observations,the exine of Quantonenpollenites pollen is unstratified with the absence of a columellar layer,and the exine is tightly connected with the intine.Based on comprehensive morphological evidence,especially the lack of columellar layer which is typical characteristics existing in almost all angiosperm pollen,the botanical affinity of Quantonenpollenites should be attributed to gymnosperms rather than angiosperms as previously thought.Through comparative analysis,it may have a close affinity with Ephedra,but further analytical data are still needed for verification.As a characteristic palynological type of the Quantou Formation in the Songliao Basin,the occurrence of Quantonenpollenites has indicative significance for determining the age of the hosting strata.By systematically clarifying the phylogenetic affiliation of Quantonenpollenites,together with the other associated palynomorphs,this study provides crucial reference materials for defining the stratigraphic age range of the Quantou Formation(Cenomanian to early Turonian),improves the resolution of stratigraphic age calibration of the Quantou Formation,and provides key paleontological evidence for the refined division of the terrestrial Cretaceous chronostratigraphic framework in the Songliao Basin.展开更多
Investigating the mechanisms underlying central nervous system disorders is a major scientific issue in the 21st century.However,the inaccessibility and complexity of the human brain have always represented a challeng...Investigating the mechanisms underlying central nervous system disorders is a major scientific issue in the 21st century.However,the inaccessibility and complexity of the human brain have always represented a challenge in understanding the pathophysiology of the central nervous system.Brain organoids are self-assembled threedimensional aggregates derived from pluripotent stem cells with cell types and structures similar to the embryonic human brain,giving them potential for investigating the atypical cellular,molecular,and genetic characteristics characteristic of central nervous system disorders.Brain organoids also provide a platform for drug screening and serve as a potential source for transplantation therapy for brain injuries.However,the broad application of brain organoids is hampered by several limitations,such as the lack of high-fidelity cell types,insufficient maturation,and considerable heterogeneity,undermining their reliability in specific applications.This review summarizes brain organoid evolution,discusses recent technological and methodological innovations,and reviews their applications in drug screening,transplantation therapy,and disease modeling,as well as clinical research progress.Additionally,we emphasize the limitations of current brain organoid research and explore the potential for advancing the technology to enhance its applicability.展开更多
Brain organoids are artificial neural tissues derived in vitro,containing a variety of cell types,as well as structural and/or functional brain regions.They can partially mimic brain physiological activities and disea...Brain organoids are artificial neural tissues derived in vitro,containing a variety of cell types,as well as structural and/or functional brain regions.They can partially mimic brain physiological activities and diseased processes.Owing to their operability and sample accessibility,brain organoids serve as a bridge between in vitro monolayer cell culture models and in vivo animal models.An increasing number of induction protocols for brain organoids have been developed over the preceding decade.A key future research direction will focus on ensuring the complexity and quality of brain organoids.The integration of powerful technologies,such as the CRISP R/Cas9 genome editing and lineage tra cing systems,shall precipitate practical and broad applications of brain organoids.In this review,we discuss the generation and application of brain organoids,as well as their integration with genome editing technologies,in the study of neural development,disease modeling,and mechanistic investigations.The innovative combination of these two technologies may offer a fresh perspective for exploring the fundamental aspects of the human nervous system and related diseases.展开更多
Blood-brain barrier disruption and the neuroinflammatory response are significant pathological features that critically influence disease progression and treatment outcomes.This review systematically analyzes the curr...Blood-brain barrier disruption and the neuroinflammatory response are significant pathological features that critically influence disease progression and treatment outcomes.This review systematically analyzes the current understanding of the bidirectional relationship between blood-brain barrier disruption and neuroinflammation in traumatic brain injury,along with emerging combination therapeutic strategies.Literature review indicates that blood-brain barrier disruption and neuroinflammatory responses are key pathological features following traumatic brain injury.In the acute phase after traumatic brain injury,the pathological characteristics include primary blood-brain barrier disruption and the activation of inflammatory cascades.In the subacute phase,the pathological features are characterized by repair mechanisms and inflammatory modulation.In the chronic phase,the pathological features show persistent low-grade inflammation and incomplete recovery of the blood-brain barrier.Various physiological changes,such as structural alterations of the blood-brain barrier,inflammatory cascades,and extracellular matrix remodeling,interact with each other and are influenced by genetic,age,sex,and environmental factors.The dynamic balance between blood-brain barrier permeability and neuroinflammation is regulated by hormones,particularly sex hormones and stress-related hormones.Additionally,the role of gastrointestinal hormones is receiving increasing attention.Current treatment strategies for traumatic brain injury include various methods such as conventional drug combinations,multimodality neuromonitoring,hyperbaric oxygen therapy,and non-invasive brain stimulation.Artificial intelligence also shows potential in treatment decision-making and personalized therapy.Emerging sequential combination strategies and precision medicine approaches can help improve treatment outcomes;however,challenges remain,such as inadequate research on the mechanisms of the chronic phase traumatic brain injury and difficulties with technology integration.Future research on traumatic brain injury should focus on personalized treatment strategies,the standardization of techniques,costeffectiveness evaluations,and addressing the needs of patients with comorbidities.A multidisciplinary approach should be used to enhance treatment and improve patient outcomes.展开更多
This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine and compare deep learning methods for brain tumor segmentation and classification using MRI and other imaging modalities,focusing on recent trends from 2022 to 20...This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine and compare deep learning methods for brain tumor segmentation and classification using MRI and other imaging modalities,focusing on recent trends from 2022 to 2025.The primary objective is to evaluate methodological advancements,model performance,dataset usage,and existing challenges in developing clinically robust AI systems.We included peer-reviewed journal articles and highimpact conference papers published between 2022 and 2025,written in English,that proposed or evaluated deep learning methods for brain tumor segmentation and/or classification.Excluded were non-open-access publications,books,and non-English articles.A structured search was conducted across Scopus,Google Scholar,Wiley,and Taylor&Francis,with the last search performed in August 2025.Risk of bias was not formally quantified but considered during full-text screening based on dataset diversity,validation methods,and availability of performance metrics.We used narrative synthesis and tabular benchmarking to compare performance metrics(e.g.,accuracy,Dice score)across model types(CNN,Transformer,Hybrid),imaging modalities,and datasets.A total of 49 studies were included(43 journal articles and 6 conference papers).These studies spanned over 9 public datasets(e.g.,BraTS,Figshare,REMBRANDT,MOLAB)and utilized a range of imaging modalities,predominantly MRI.Hybrid models,especially ResViT and UNetFormer,consistently achieved high performance,with classification accuracy exceeding 98%and segmentation Dice scores above 0.90 across multiple studies.Transformers and hybrid architectures showed increasing adoption post2023.Many studies lacked external validation and were evaluated only on a few benchmark datasets,raising concerns about generalizability and dataset bias.Few studies addressed clinical interpretability or uncertainty quantification.Despite promising results,particularly for hybrid deep learning models,widespread clinical adoption remains limited due to lack of validation,interpretability concerns,and real-world deployment barriers.展开更多
Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques offer promising therapeutic and regenerative prospects in neurological diseases by modulating brain activity and improving cognitive and motor functions.Given the paucity of kn...Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques offer promising therapeutic and regenerative prospects in neurological diseases by modulating brain activity and improving cognitive and motor functions.Given the paucity of knowledge about the underlying modes of action and optimal treatment modalities,a thorough translational investigation of noninvasive brain stimulation in preclinical animal models is urgently needed.Thus,we reviewed the current literature on the mechanistic underpinnings of noninvasive brain stimulation in models of central nervous system impairment,with a particular emphasis on traumatic brain injury and stroke.Due to the lack of translational models in most noninvasive brain stimulation techniques proposed,we found this review to the most relevant techniques used in humans,i.e.,transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation.We searched the literature in Pub Med,encompassing the MEDLINE and PMC databases,for studies published between January 1,2020 and September 30,2024.Thirty-five studies were eligible.Transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation demonstrated distinct strengths in augmenting rehabilitation post-stroke and traumatic brain injury,with emerging mechanistic evidence.Overall,we identified neuronal,inflammatory,microvascular,and apoptotic pathways highlighted in the literature.This review also highlights a lack of translational surrogate parameters to bridge the gap between preclinical findings and their clinical translation.展开更多
Background:Midlife lifestyle factors,including physical activity,are associated with late-life brain health,yet the role of aerobic exercise on structural brain health in early and mid-adulthood remains poorly underst...Background:Midlife lifestyle factors,including physical activity,are associated with late-life brain health,yet the role of aerobic exercise on structural brain health in early and mid-adulthood remains poorly understood.This study aimed to examine the effect of aerobic exercise on structural brain age and to explore potential mediators.Methods:In a single-blind,12-month randomized clinical trial,130 healthy participants aged 26-58 years were randomized into a moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise group or a usual-care control group.The exercise group attended two supervised 60-min sessions per week in a laboratory setting plus engaged in home-based exercise to achieve 150 min of exercise per week.Brain-predicted age difference(brain-PAD)and cardiorespiratory fitness(CRF)were assessed at baseline and 12 months.Both intention-to-treat(ITT)and completers analyses(including participants who completed post-intervention assessments)were performed.Results:The 130 participants(67.7%female)had an age of 41.28±9.93 years(mean±SD).At baseline,higher CRF(peak oxygen uptake,VO_(2peak))was associated with smaller brain-PAD(β=-0.309,p=0.012).After the intervention,the exercise group showed a decrease in brainPAD(estimated mean difference(EMD)=-0.60;95%confidence interval(95%CI):-1.15 to-0.04;p=0.034)compared to the control group(EMD=0.35;95%CI:-0.21 to 0.92;p=0.217);time×group interaction(between-group difference(BGD)=-0.95;95%CI:-1.72 to-0.17;p=0.019).VO2peak improved in the exercise group(EMD=1.60;95%CI:0.29-2.90;p=0.017)compared to the control group(EMD=-0.78;95%CI:-2.17 to 0.60;p=0.265);time×group interaction(BGD=2.38;95%CI:0.52-4.25;p=0.015).Body composition,blood pressure,and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels were unaffected.None of the proposed pathways statistically mediated the effect of exercise on brain-PAD.The results from completers were similar.Conclusion:Engaging in 12 months of moderate-to-vigorous exercise reduced brain-PAD in early-to-midlife adults.The pathways by which these effects occur remain unknown.展开更多
Pericytes are multi-functional mural cells of the central nervous system that cover the capillary endothelial cells. Pericytes play a vital role in nervous system development, significantly influencing the formation, ...Pericytes are multi-functional mural cells of the central nervous system that cover the capillary endothelial cells. Pericytes play a vital role in nervous system development, significantly influencing the formation, maturation, and maintenance of the central nervous system. An expanding body of studies has revealed that pericytes establish carefully regulated interactions with oligodendrocytes, microglia, and astrocytes. These communications govern numerous critical brain processes, including angiogenesis, neurovascular unit homeostasis, blood–brain barrier integrity, cerebral blood flow regulation, and immune response initiation. Glial cells and pericytes participate in dynamic and reciprocal interactions, with each influencing and adjusting the functionality of the other. Pericytes have the ability to control astrocyte polarization, trigger differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells, and initiate immunological responses in microglia. Various neurological disorders that compromise the integrity of the blood–brain barrier can disrupt these communications, impair waste clearance, and hinder cerebral blood circulation, contributing to neuroinflammation. In the context of neurodegeneration, these disruptions exacerbate pathological processes, such as neuronal damage, synaptic dysfunction, and impaired tissue repair. This article explores the complex interactions between pericytes and various glial cells in both healthy and pathological states of the central nervous system. It highlights their essential roles in neurovascular function and disease progression, providing important insights that may enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions and guide potential therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders in future research.展开更多
Metastatic brain tumors undergo profound metabolic-epigenetic reprogramming driven by the unique constraints of the brain microenvironment.Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF1α)enhances glycolytic flux,lactate accumulat...Metastatic brain tumors undergo profound metabolic-epigenetic reprogramming driven by the unique constraints of the brain microenvironment.Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF1α)enhances glycolytic flux,lactate accumulation,and histone lactylation,collectively supporting metastatic colonization and immune evasion.Key metabolites including acetyl-CoA,S-adenosylmethionine(SAM),α-ketoglutarate(α-KG),fumarate,and 2-hydroxyglutarate(2-HG)-directly modify chromatin states by regulating histone acetyltransferases,DNA/histone methyltransferases,andα-KG dependent dioxygenases such as Ten-Eleven Translocation(TET)enzymes and lysine demethylases(KDMs).These metabolic shifts result in aberrant DNA methylation,histone lysine residue at position 27 on Histone H3(H3K27)trimethylation,and depletion of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine(5hmC),all of which are hallmark epigenetic alterations in brain metastasis and primary Central Nervous System(CNS)tumors.Additionally,the blood-brain barrier(BBB)and blood-tumor barrier(BTB)impose nutrient restrictions and induce metabolic dependency on glutamine,acetate,and lactate shuttling,thereby reshaping epigenetic enzyme activity.We synthesize current mechanistic evidence showing how metabolic pressures in the brain microenvironment remodel the epigenome to promote tumor plasticity,stemness,and therapeutic resistance.Understanding these coupled pathways reveals vulnerable nodes such as HIF1αsignaling,α-KG-dependent demethylation,and lactate-driven epigenetic remodeling that may be exploited for targeted treatment of metastatic brain tumors.The present review aims to provide in-depth insights into epigenetic regulation,including chromatin and histone modifications as well as noncoding RNAs and metabolic reprogramming,highlighting how the two interplay in the development and progression of metastatic brain tumors and their therapeutic potential.展开更多
基金supported by the Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences(CI2021A04013)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82204610)+1 种基金the Qihang Talent Program(L2022046)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Public Welfare Research Institutes(ZZ15-YQ-041 and L2021029).
文摘Background:The medicinal material known as Os Draconis(Longgu)originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions.However,fossil resources are nonrenewable,and clinical demand is increasingly difficult to meet,leading to a proliferation of counterfeit products.During prolonged geological burial,static pressure from the surrounding strata severely compromises the microstructural integrity of osteons in Os Draconis,but Os Draconis still largely retains the structural features of mammalian bone.Methods:Using verified authentic Os Draconis samples over 10,000 years old as a baseline,this study summarizes the ultrastructural characteristics of genuine Os Draconis.Employing electron probe microanalysis and optical polarized light microscopy,we examined 28 batches of authentic Os Draconis and 31 batches of counterfeits to identify their ultrastructural differences.Key points for ultrastructural identification of Os Draconis were compiled,and a new identification approach was proposed based on these differences.Results:Authentic Os Draconis exhibited distinct ultrastructural markers:irregularly shaped osteons with traversing fissures,deformed/displaced Haversian canals,and secondary mineral infill(predominantly calcium carbonate).Counterfeits showed regular osteon arrangements,absent traversal fissures,and homogeneous hydroxyapatite composition.Lab-simulated samples lacked structural degradation features.EPMA confirmed calcium carbonate infill in fossilized Haversian canals,while elemental profiles differentiated lacunae types(void vs.mineral-packed).Conclusion:The study established ultrastructural criteria for authentic Os Draconis identification:osteon deformation,geological fissures penetrating bone units,and heterogenous mineral deposition.These features,unattainable in counterfeits or modern processed bones,provide a cost-effective,accurate identification method.This approach bridges gaps in TCM material standardization and supports quality control for clinical applications.
文摘This study aimed to investigate aquaporin 4 expression and the ultrastructure of the blood-brain barrier at 2-72 hours following cerebral contusion injury, and correlate these changes to the formation of brain edema. Results revealed that at 2 hours after cerebral contusion and laceration injury, aquaporin 4 expression significantly increased, brain water content and blood-brain barrier permeability increased, and the number of pinocytotic vesicles in cerebral microvascular endothelia cells increased. In addition, the mitochondrial accumulation was observed. As contusion and laceration injury became aggravated, aquaporin 4 expression continued to increase, brain water content and blood-brain barrier permeability gradually increased, brain capillary endothelial cells and astrocytes swelled, and capillary basement membrane injury gradually increased. The above changes were most apparent at 12 hours after injury, after which they gradually attenuated. Aquaporin 4 expression positively correlated with brain water content and the blood-brain barrier index. Our experimental findings indicate that increasing aquaporin 4 expression and blood-brain barrier permeability after cerebral contusion and laceration injury in humans is involved in the formation of brain edema.
基金Research Projects of Science and Technology Bureau of Foshan City, No. 04080131the Administration Bureau of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Guangdong Province, No. 1050006the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province, No. 8152800007000001
文摘We established a stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rat model by bilateral constriction of the renal artery with sliver loop clips. After ten weeks, middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced for 2 hours. The rats then received electro-acupuncture at Baihui （DU 20） and Dazhui （DU 14） after onset of ischemia for 30 days. In situ hybridization study showed that electroacupuncture significantly reduced the number of neurocan mRNA-positive cells in the ischemic penumbra and hippocampal tissues of rats. Electron microscopy results demonstrated that the structure of neurons and blood vessels in the ischemic tissues were restored with electroacupuncture. Overall, these data suggest that electroacupuncture may protect neurons against ischemic reperfusion injury in stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rats, which may be regulated by downregulation of expression of nerve inhibitory factor neurocan mRNA.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32171770)Natural Science Foundation Program of Jilin Provincial Department of Education(No.JJKH20230074KJ).
文摘Rhododendron micranthum Turcz.is a shrub esteemed for its ornamental and medicinal attributes within the Changbai Mountain range of China.We selected 3-year saplings and subjected them to four distinct light condi-tions:full light(CK),70%light(L1),50%light(L2),and 30%light(L3)to investigate variations in morphology,photosynthetic responses,stomatal ultrastructure as well as the mechanisms through which these saplings adapt to differing lighting environments.The results indicate that L2 leaves exhibit significantly greater length,width,and petiole development compared to other treatments across varying intensities.Over time,chlorophyll content and PSII levels in L2-treated saplings surpass those observed in other treatments;Proline(PRO),malondialdehyde(MDA),and soluble protein(SP)contents are markedly lower under L2 treatment.Catalase(CAT)and superoxide dismutase(SOD)demonstrate significant correlations across various light con-ditions but respond differently among treatments,indicat-ing distinct species sensitivities to light intensity while both contribute to environmental stress resistance mechanisms.Findings reveal that R.micranthum saplings at 50%light intensity benefit from enhanced protection via antioxidant enzymes,and shading reduces osmotic adjustment sub-stances yet increases chlorophyll content.Stomatal length/width along with conductance rates and net photosynthesis rates for L2 exceed those of CK,suggesting an improved photosynthetic structure conducive to efficient photosynthe-sis under this condition.Thus,moderate shading represents optimal growth at 50%illumination,a critical factor promot-ing sapling development.This research elucidates the ideal environment for R.micranthum adaptation to varying light conditions supporting future conservation initiatives.
基金funded by the Guangzhou Sci-ence and Technology Project(No.201803020017).
文摘The giant triton snail Charonia tritonis is a marine large carnivorous gastropoda inhabiting in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.Their splendid and highly organized Charonia tritonis shells are attractive;however few studies have been conducted on shell ultra-structure and pigmentation.The arrangements of crossed-lamellar structures were distinctive for the giant triton snail shell,showing three layers of mineral structures in the cross-section.The 1st-order and 2nd-order lamellae of the shell were around 10-20μm and the crystals in outer layers intersected at right angles in this species.They were identified as aragonite crystals by Raman scattering,and granular organic matrix were attached to the aragonite mineral phase closely.Furthermore,the dominant Raman spectra from polyene pigments in the shell were characterized at wavenumbers of 1123 cm^(-1)and 1504 cm^(-1),assigned to stretching vibrations of carbon-carbon single(C-C)and double(C=C)bonds,and the polyene chain was confirmed with 11-12 C-C bonds and 12-13 conju-gated C=C bonds.The research will lay a foundation for exploring the relationship between the calcareous shell and the formation of shell color in the giant triton snail.
基金Supported by: the Program ofAdministration Bureau for Traditional Chinese Medicine of Shandong Province, No.2001-2-75
文摘BACKGROUND： Infusion of kainic acid into the basal nuclei induces neuronal excitotoxicity, degeneration and necrosis, resulting in disturbed learning and memory functions. OBJECTIVE： To explore the effects of different doses of traditional Chinese medicine Daicong solution on brain ultrastructure in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： The randomized, controlled, cellular morphology experiment was performed at the Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology of Weifang Medical University, China from October 2006 to March 2007. MATERIALS： Fifty healthy, Sprague Dawley rats, aged 22-months, were used to establish rat models of Alzheimer＇s disease. The Morris water maze was prepared at the Pharmacometrics Key Laboratory of Weifang Medical University in Shandong Province of China. Traditional Chinese medicine Daicong solution （crude drug 1 g/mL）, composed of radix ginseng, rehmannia dried rhizome, anemarrhenae and radix astragali, was produced by the Department of Pharmacy of Hospital Affiliated to Weifang Medical University. Kainic acid was provided by Professor Xiuyan Li from Weifang Medical University. METHODS： A total of 40 model rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups： dementia model, low-dose Daicong solution （5 g/kg/d）, moderate-dose Daicong solution （10 g/kg/d）, and high-dose Daicong solution （20 g/kg/d）. An additional 10 healthy rats served as the normal control group. Rats in the dementia model and normal control groups received saline （10 mL/kg/d）. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Neural cell ultrastructure was observed utilizing electron microscopy after 1 month of respective treatments. RESULTS： Compared with the normal control group, electron density and the number of ribosomes were significantly reduced in neuronal cytoplasm, and many lipofuscin grains and vacuole-like changes were observed in mitochondria in the dementia model group. In addition, nuclear chromatin presented with different sizes of plaque-shaped degenerative pathological changes. In the Alzheimer＇s disease rat model, neurons and neuroepithelial cells recovered to normal conditions following treatment with moderate- and high-dose Daicong solution. In the low-dose Daicong group, the condition was slightly improved, but the cytopathic effects were still significant. CONCLUSION： Daicong solution significantly improved neuronal and neuroepithelial pathological ultrastructure in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease.
基金supported by European Union-NextGeneration EU under the Italian University and Research(MUR)National Innovation Ecosystem grant ECS00000041-VITALITY-CUP E13C22001060006(to MdA)。
文摘Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide.It is characterized by a highly interconnected and multiphasic neuropathological cascade of events,in which an intense and protracted inflammatory response plays a crucial role in worsening brain injury.Neuroinflammation,a key player in the pathophysiology of stroke,has a dual role.In the acute phase of stroke,neuroinflammation exacerbates brain injury,contributing to neuronal damage and blood–brain barrier disruption.This aspect of neuroinflammation is associated with poor neurological outcomes.Conversely,in the recovery phase following stroke,neuroinflammation facilitates brain repair processes,including neurogenesis,angiogenesis,and synaptic plasticity.The transition of neuroinflammation from a harmful to a reparative role is not well understood.Therefore,this review seeks to explore the mechanisms underlying this transition,with the goal of informing the development of therapeutic interventions that are both time-and context-specific.This review aims to elucidate the complex and dual role of neuroinflammation in stroke,highlighting the main actors,biomarkers of the disease,and potential therapeutic approaches.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Yunnan Province,No.202401AS070086(to ZW)the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2018YFA0801403(to ZW)+1 种基金Yunnan Science and Technology Talent and Platform Plan,No.202105AC160041(to ZW)the Natural Science Foundation of China,No.31960120(to ZW)。
文摘Traumatic brain injury can be categorized into primary and secondary injuries.Secondary injuries are the main cause of disability following traumatic brain injury,which involves a complex multicellular cascade.Microglia play an important role in secondary injury and can be activated in response to traumatic brain injury.In this article,we review the origin and classification of microglia as well as the dynamic changes of microglia in traumatic brain injury.We also clarify the microglial polarization pathways and the therapeutic drugs targeting activated microglia.We found that regulating the signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microglia,such as the Toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B,mitogen-activated protein kinase,Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription,phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B,Notch,and high mobility group box 1 pathways,can alleviate the inflammatory response triggered by microglia in traumatic brain injury,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.We also reviewed the strategies developed on the basis of these pathways,such as drug and cell replacement therapies.Drugs that modulate inflammatory factors,such as rosuvastatin,have been shown to promote the polarization of antiinflammatory microglia and reduce the inflammatory response caused by traumatic brain injury.Mesenchymal stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties,and clinical studies have confirmed their significant efficacy and safety in patients with traumatic brain injury.Additionally,advancements in mesenchymal stem cell-delivery methods—such as combinations of novel biomaterials,genetic engineering,and mesenchymal stem cell exosome therapy—have greatly enhanced the efficiency and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in animal models.However,numerous challenges in the application of drug and mesenchymal stem cell treatment strategies remain to be addressed.In the future,new technologies,such as single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis,can facilitate further experimental studies.Moreover,research involving non-human primates can help translate these treatment strategies to clinical practice.
基金supported by the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,No.2023A1515030045(to HS)Presidential Foundation of Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University,No.yzjj2022ms4(to HS)。
文摘Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most dangerous subtype of stroke,characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates,and frequently leads to significant secondary white matter injury.In recent decades,studies have revealed that gut microbiota can communicate bidirectionally with the brain through the gut microbiota–brain axis.This axis indicates that gut microbiota is closely related to the development and prognosis of intracerebral hemorrhage and its associated secondary white matter injury.The NACHT,LRR,and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3)inflammasome plays a crucial role in this context.This review summarizes the dysbiosis of gut microbiota following intracerebral hemorrhage and explores the mechanisms by which this imbalance may promote the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.These mechanisms include metabolic pathways(involving short-chain fatty acids,lipopolysaccharides,lactic acid,bile acids,trimethylamine-N-oxide,and tryptophan),neural pathways(such as the vagus nerve and sympathetic nerve),and immune pathways(involving microglia and T cells).We then discuss the relationship between the activated NLRP3 inflammasome and secondary white matter injury after intracerebral hemorrhage.The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome can exacerbate secondary white matter injury by disrupting the blood–brain barrier,inducing neuroinflammation,and interfering with nerve regeneration.Finally,we outline potential treatment strategies for intracerebral hemorrhage and its secondary white matter injury.Our review highlights the critical role of the gut microbiota–brain axis and the NLRP3 inflammasome in white matter injury following intracerebral hemorrhage,paving the way for exploring potential therapeutic approaches.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(62522119 and 62372358)the Beijing Natural Science Foundation(7242267)+2 种基金the Beijing Scholars Program([2015]160)the Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi(2023-JC-QN-0719)the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2022A1515110453)。
文摘Background:Brain volume measurement serves as a critical approach for assessing brain health status.Considering the close biological connection between the eyes and brain,this study aims to investigate the feasibility of estimating brain volume through retinal fundus imaging integrated with clinical metadata,and to offer a cost-effective approach for assessing brain health.Methods:Based on clinical information,retinal fundus images,and neuroimaging data derived from a multicenter,population-based cohort study,the Kai Luan Study,we proposed a cross-modal correlation representation(CMCR)network to elucidate the intricate co-degenerative relationships between the eyes and brain for 755 subjects.Specifically,individual clinical information,which has been followed up for as long as 12 years,was encoded as a prompt to enhance the accuracy of brain volume estimation.Independent internal validation and external validation were performed to assess the robustness of the proposed model.Root mean square error(RMSE),peak signal-tonoise ratio(PSNR),and structural similarity index measure(SSIM)metrics were employed to quantitatively evaluate the quality of synthetic brain images derived from retinal imaging data.Results:The proposed framework yielded average RMSE,PSNR,and SSIM values of 98.23,35.78 d B,and 0.64,respectively,which significantly outperformed 5 other methods:multi-channel Variational Autoencoder(mcVAE),Pixelto-Pixel(Pixel2pixel),transformer-based U-Net(Trans UNet),multi-scale transformer network(MT-Net),and residual vision transformer(ResViT).The two-(2D)and three-dimensional(3D)visualization results showed that the shape and texture of the synthetic brain images generated by the proposed method most closely resembled those of actual brain images.Thus,the CMCR framework accurately captured the latent structural correlations between the fundus and the brain.The average difference between predicted and actual brain volumes was 61.36 cm~3,with a relative error of 4.54%.When all of the clinical information(including age and sex,daily habits,cardiovascular factors,metabolic factors,and inflammatory factors)was encoded,the difference was decreased to 53.89 cm~3,with a relative error of 3.98%.Based on the synthesized brain magnetic resonance images from retinal fundus images,the volumes of brain tissues could be estimated with high accuracy.Conclusion:This study provides an innovative,accurate,and cost-effective approach to characterize brain health status through readily accessible retinal fundus images.
文摘Obese individuals who subsequently sustain a traumatic brain injury(TBI)exhibit worsened outcomes including longer periods of rehabilitation(Eagle et al.,2023).In obese individuals,prolonged symptomology is associated with increased levels of circulato ry pro-inflammatory marke rs up to 1 year postTBI(Eagle et al.,2023).
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2023YFC2906701)National Natural Science Foundation of China (42372041, 42072027)China Geological Survey (DD20221646)
文摘Quantonenpollenites,a pollen taxon which was assumed to be angiosperm,is of great significance in confirming the geological age of its bearing strata.Aims to clarify the taxonomic affiliation of Quantonenpollenites,we investigated the external morphology and internal structure using Light Microscopy(LM),Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM),and Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM).According to TEM observations,the exine of Quantonenpollenites pollen is unstratified with the absence of a columellar layer,and the exine is tightly connected with the intine.Based on comprehensive morphological evidence,especially the lack of columellar layer which is typical characteristics existing in almost all angiosperm pollen,the botanical affinity of Quantonenpollenites should be attributed to gymnosperms rather than angiosperms as previously thought.Through comparative analysis,it may have a close affinity with Ephedra,but further analytical data are still needed for verification.As a characteristic palynological type of the Quantou Formation in the Songliao Basin,the occurrence of Quantonenpollenites has indicative significance for determining the age of the hosting strata.By systematically clarifying the phylogenetic affiliation of Quantonenpollenites,together with the other associated palynomorphs,this study provides crucial reference materials for defining the stratigraphic age range of the Quantou Formation(Cenomanian to early Turonian),improves the resolution of stratigraphic age calibration of the Quantou Formation,and provides key paleontological evidence for the refined division of the terrestrial Cretaceous chronostratigraphic framework in the Songliao Basin.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82471415Jilin Province Medical and Health Talents Special Project,No.2024WSZX-D03the Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province of China,No.YDZJ202401262ZYTS。
文摘Investigating the mechanisms underlying central nervous system disorders is a major scientific issue in the 21st century.However,the inaccessibility and complexity of the human brain have always represented a challenge in understanding the pathophysiology of the central nervous system.Brain organoids are self-assembled threedimensional aggregates derived from pluripotent stem cells with cell types and structures similar to the embryonic human brain,giving them potential for investigating the atypical cellular,molecular,and genetic characteristics characteristic of central nervous system disorders.Brain organoids also provide a platform for drug screening and serve as a potential source for transplantation therapy for brain injuries.However,the broad application of brain organoids is hampered by several limitations,such as the lack of high-fidelity cell types,insufficient maturation,and considerable heterogeneity,undermining their reliability in specific applications.This review summarizes brain organoid evolution,discusses recent technological and methodological innovations,and reviews their applications in drug screening,transplantation therapy,and disease modeling,as well as clinical research progress.Additionally,we emphasize the limitations of current brain organoid research and explore the potential for advancing the technology to enhance its applicability.
基金Special Projectfor Clinical Research of Shanghai Municipal Health Commission,No.202140403Key Disciplines Group Construction Project of Pudong Health Bureau of Shanghai,No.PWZxq2022-05+2 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region,No.2024AAC05084Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Key Research and Development Program,No.2021BEG03084National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.32370895,32070862。
文摘Brain organoids are artificial neural tissues derived in vitro,containing a variety of cell types,as well as structural and/or functional brain regions.They can partially mimic brain physiological activities and diseased processes.Owing to their operability and sample accessibility,brain organoids serve as a bridge between in vitro monolayer cell culture models and in vivo animal models.An increasing number of induction protocols for brain organoids have been developed over the preceding decade.A key future research direction will focus on ensuring the complexity and quality of brain organoids.The integration of powerful technologies,such as the CRISP R/Cas9 genome editing and lineage tra cing systems,shall precipitate practical and broad applications of brain organoids.In this review,we discuss the generation and application of brain organoids,as well as their integration with genome editing technologies,in the study of neural development,disease modeling,and mechanistic investigations.The innovative combination of these two technologies may offer a fresh perspective for exploring the fundamental aspects of the human nervous system and related diseases.
基金supported by Open Scientific Research Program of Military Logistics,No.BLB20J009(to YZhao).
文摘Blood-brain barrier disruption and the neuroinflammatory response are significant pathological features that critically influence disease progression and treatment outcomes.This review systematically analyzes the current understanding of the bidirectional relationship between blood-brain barrier disruption and neuroinflammation in traumatic brain injury,along with emerging combination therapeutic strategies.Literature review indicates that blood-brain barrier disruption and neuroinflammatory responses are key pathological features following traumatic brain injury.In the acute phase after traumatic brain injury,the pathological characteristics include primary blood-brain barrier disruption and the activation of inflammatory cascades.In the subacute phase,the pathological features are characterized by repair mechanisms and inflammatory modulation.In the chronic phase,the pathological features show persistent low-grade inflammation and incomplete recovery of the blood-brain barrier.Various physiological changes,such as structural alterations of the blood-brain barrier,inflammatory cascades,and extracellular matrix remodeling,interact with each other and are influenced by genetic,age,sex,and environmental factors.The dynamic balance between blood-brain barrier permeability and neuroinflammation is regulated by hormones,particularly sex hormones and stress-related hormones.Additionally,the role of gastrointestinal hormones is receiving increasing attention.Current treatment strategies for traumatic brain injury include various methods such as conventional drug combinations,multimodality neuromonitoring,hyperbaric oxygen therapy,and non-invasive brain stimulation.Artificial intelligence also shows potential in treatment decision-making and personalized therapy.Emerging sequential combination strategies and precision medicine approaches can help improve treatment outcomes;however,challenges remain,such as inadequate research on the mechanisms of the chronic phase traumatic brain injury and difficulties with technology integration.Future research on traumatic brain injury should focus on personalized treatment strategies,the standardization of techniques,costeffectiveness evaluations,and addressing the needs of patients with comorbidities.A multidisciplinary approach should be used to enhance treatment and improve patient outcomes.
文摘This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine and compare deep learning methods for brain tumor segmentation and classification using MRI and other imaging modalities,focusing on recent trends from 2022 to 2025.The primary objective is to evaluate methodological advancements,model performance,dataset usage,and existing challenges in developing clinically robust AI systems.We included peer-reviewed journal articles and highimpact conference papers published between 2022 and 2025,written in English,that proposed or evaluated deep learning methods for brain tumor segmentation and/or classification.Excluded were non-open-access publications,books,and non-English articles.A structured search was conducted across Scopus,Google Scholar,Wiley,and Taylor&Francis,with the last search performed in August 2025.Risk of bias was not formally quantified but considered during full-text screening based on dataset diversity,validation methods,and availability of performance metrics.We used narrative synthesis and tabular benchmarking to compare performance metrics(e.g.,accuracy,Dice score)across model types(CNN,Transformer,Hybrid),imaging modalities,and datasets.A total of 49 studies were included(43 journal articles and 6 conference papers).These studies spanned over 9 public datasets(e.g.,BraTS,Figshare,REMBRANDT,MOLAB)and utilized a range of imaging modalities,predominantly MRI.Hybrid models,especially ResViT and UNetFormer,consistently achieved high performance,with classification accuracy exceeding 98%and segmentation Dice scores above 0.90 across multiple studies.Transformers and hybrid architectures showed increasing adoption post2023.Many studies lacked external validation and were evaluated only on a few benchmark datasets,raising concerns about generalizability and dataset bias.Few studies addressed clinical interpretability or uncertainty quantification.Despite promising results,particularly for hybrid deep learning models,widespread clinical adoption remains limited due to lack of validation,interpretability concerns,and real-world deployment barriers.
基金funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(DFG,German Research Foundation):project ID 431549029-SFB 1451the Marga-und-Walter-Boll-Stiftung(#210-10-15)(to MAR)a stipend from the'Gerok Program'(Faculty of Medicine,University of Cologne,Germany)。
文摘Noninvasive brain stimulation techniques offer promising therapeutic and regenerative prospects in neurological diseases by modulating brain activity and improving cognitive and motor functions.Given the paucity of knowledge about the underlying modes of action and optimal treatment modalities,a thorough translational investigation of noninvasive brain stimulation in preclinical animal models is urgently needed.Thus,we reviewed the current literature on the mechanistic underpinnings of noninvasive brain stimulation in models of central nervous system impairment,with a particular emphasis on traumatic brain injury and stroke.Due to the lack of translational models in most noninvasive brain stimulation techniques proposed,we found this review to the most relevant techniques used in humans,i.e.,transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation.We searched the literature in Pub Med,encompassing the MEDLINE and PMC databases,for studies published between January 1,2020 and September 30,2024.Thirty-five studies were eligible.Transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation demonstrated distinct strengths in augmenting rehabilitation post-stroke and traumatic brain injury,with emerging mechanistic evidence.Overall,we identified neuronal,inflammatory,microvascular,and apoptotic pathways highlighted in the literature.This review also highlights a lack of translational surrogate parameters to bridge the gap between preclinical findings and their clinical translation.
基金funded by the National Institutes of Health and the National Heart,Lung,and Blood Institute(P01HL040962)。
文摘Background:Midlife lifestyle factors,including physical activity,are associated with late-life brain health,yet the role of aerobic exercise on structural brain health in early and mid-adulthood remains poorly understood.This study aimed to examine the effect of aerobic exercise on structural brain age and to explore potential mediators.Methods:In a single-blind,12-month randomized clinical trial,130 healthy participants aged 26-58 years were randomized into a moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise group or a usual-care control group.The exercise group attended two supervised 60-min sessions per week in a laboratory setting plus engaged in home-based exercise to achieve 150 min of exercise per week.Brain-predicted age difference(brain-PAD)and cardiorespiratory fitness(CRF)were assessed at baseline and 12 months.Both intention-to-treat(ITT)and completers analyses(including participants who completed post-intervention assessments)were performed.Results:The 130 participants(67.7%female)had an age of 41.28±9.93 years(mean±SD).At baseline,higher CRF(peak oxygen uptake,VO_(2peak))was associated with smaller brain-PAD(β=-0.309,p=0.012).After the intervention,the exercise group showed a decrease in brainPAD(estimated mean difference(EMD)=-0.60;95%confidence interval(95%CI):-1.15 to-0.04;p=0.034)compared to the control group(EMD=0.35;95%CI:-0.21 to 0.92;p=0.217);time×group interaction(between-group difference(BGD)=-0.95;95%CI:-1.72 to-0.17;p=0.019).VO2peak improved in the exercise group(EMD=1.60;95%CI:0.29-2.90;p=0.017)compared to the control group(EMD=-0.78;95%CI:-2.17 to 0.60;p=0.265);time×group interaction(BGD=2.38;95%CI:0.52-4.25;p=0.015).Body composition,blood pressure,and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels were unaffected.None of the proposed pathways statistically mediated the effect of exercise on brain-PAD.The results from completers were similar.Conclusion:Engaging in 12 months of moderate-to-vigorous exercise reduced brain-PAD in early-to-midlife adults.The pathways by which these effects occur remain unknown.
文摘Pericytes are multi-functional mural cells of the central nervous system that cover the capillary endothelial cells. Pericytes play a vital role in nervous system development, significantly influencing the formation, maturation, and maintenance of the central nervous system. An expanding body of studies has revealed that pericytes establish carefully regulated interactions with oligodendrocytes, microglia, and astrocytes. These communications govern numerous critical brain processes, including angiogenesis, neurovascular unit homeostasis, blood–brain barrier integrity, cerebral blood flow regulation, and immune response initiation. Glial cells and pericytes participate in dynamic and reciprocal interactions, with each influencing and adjusting the functionality of the other. Pericytes have the ability to control astrocyte polarization, trigger differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells, and initiate immunological responses in microglia. Various neurological disorders that compromise the integrity of the blood–brain barrier can disrupt these communications, impair waste clearance, and hinder cerebral blood circulation, contributing to neuroinflammation. In the context of neurodegeneration, these disruptions exacerbate pathological processes, such as neuronal damage, synaptic dysfunction, and impaired tissue repair. This article explores the complex interactions between pericytes and various glial cells in both healthy and pathological states of the central nervous system. It highlights their essential roles in neurovascular function and disease progression, providing important insights that may enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions and guide potential therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders in future research.
文摘Metastatic brain tumors undergo profound metabolic-epigenetic reprogramming driven by the unique constraints of the brain microenvironment.Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF1α)enhances glycolytic flux,lactate accumulation,and histone lactylation,collectively supporting metastatic colonization and immune evasion.Key metabolites including acetyl-CoA,S-adenosylmethionine(SAM),α-ketoglutarate(α-KG),fumarate,and 2-hydroxyglutarate(2-HG)-directly modify chromatin states by regulating histone acetyltransferases,DNA/histone methyltransferases,andα-KG dependent dioxygenases such as Ten-Eleven Translocation(TET)enzymes and lysine demethylases(KDMs).These metabolic shifts result in aberrant DNA methylation,histone lysine residue at position 27 on Histone H3(H3K27)trimethylation,and depletion of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine(5hmC),all of which are hallmark epigenetic alterations in brain metastasis and primary Central Nervous System(CNS)tumors.Additionally,the blood-brain barrier(BBB)and blood-tumor barrier(BTB)impose nutrient restrictions and induce metabolic dependency on glutamine,acetate,and lactate shuttling,thereby reshaping epigenetic enzyme activity.We synthesize current mechanistic evidence showing how metabolic pressures in the brain microenvironment remodel the epigenome to promote tumor plasticity,stemness,and therapeutic resistance.Understanding these coupled pathways reveals vulnerable nodes such as HIF1αsignaling,α-KG-dependent demethylation,and lactate-driven epigenetic remodeling that may be exploited for targeted treatment of metastatic brain tumors.The present review aims to provide in-depth insights into epigenetic regulation,including chromatin and histone modifications as well as noncoding RNAs and metabolic reprogramming,highlighting how the two interplay in the development and progression of metastatic brain tumors and their therapeutic potential.
