Mingyang Zhang

Hydrogen selenide (H2Se) serves as a critical metabolic intermediate in the biosynthesis of selenoproteins. However, its investigation has been impeded by the scarcity of controllable H2Se donors. This study introduces cyclic selenoanhydride derivatives as innovative H2Se donors. Nine compounds featuring diverse substituents were synthesized, and their hydrolysis in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) released H2Se at rates dictated by their structural characteristics. Their release half-lives have a wide range from 2.76 hours to 385.08 hours. Specifically, aliphatic ring strain accelerates ring-opening hydrolysis, whereas aromatic ring substituents modulate reactivity: electron-donating groups stabilize the selenoanhydrides (thereby reducing hydrolysis), while electron-withdrawing groups enhance reactivity. In 4T1 cell assays, these donors exhibited concentration-dependent growth inhibition with varying efficacies, which were attributed to differences in their half-lives and molecular structures. This work elucidates that fine-tuning the ring size and substituents enables precise regulation of H2Se release, thus providing a promising strategy for the rational design of H2Se donors.

Introduction: This paper provides a comprehensive review examining the application of copper radionuclides, particularly 64Cu, in the diagnosis and potential therapy of various brain diseases. Methods: Two researchers conducted an independent search of the PubMed and Web of Science databases for original research articles published in English. Following a screening process based on titles and abstracts, 42 publications reporting the use of copper radionuclides for diagnosing or treating brain diseases were selected for this review. Results: The analysis revealed that several copper isotopes, namely 60 Cu, 61 Cu, 62 Cu, 64Cu, and 67Cu, have been explored for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in conditions including Alzheimer's disease, Wilson's disease, brain tumors, and traumatic brain injury. The isotopes 60 Cu, 61 Cu, and 62 Cu were primarily associated with diagnostic uses. In contrast, 64Cu and 67Cu were identified as having potential for both diagnosis and therapy (theranostic). Furthermore, the availability of 64Cu was noted to be better compared to 67Cu. Discussion: 64Cu radionuclides are frequently employed in imaging techniques for brain pathologies. While their role in radiographic applications is prominent, the therapeutic potential of 64Cu is currently underdeveloped, and current evidence is primarily derived from preclinical studies, highlighting the critical need for clinical trials to validate 64Cu's efficacy and safety as a theranostic agent in neurological conditions. Conclusion: 64Cu holds significant potential for both diagnosis and therapy of various brain diseases. Continued research and development in this area are crucial to unlock its full therapeutic potential and improve patient outcomes.

Electrospun nanofibers have a number of qualities that make them a suitable choice for skin wound healing. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) stimulates the keratinocytes and fibroblasts to proliferate, differentiate, and migrate and enhances skin wound healing. Here, we developed the electrospun scaffolds contained in polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). The scaffolds loaded with LPA nanoparticles retained a porous nanofiber structure and showed better physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. The scaffold continuously releases LPA to quickly initiate cell signaling and maintain long-term anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, we found that PP scaffold with LPA reduces the disordered collagen deposition and the thickness of the newborn epidermis, improves skin healing, and reduces scar formation. Explaining the mechanism of LPA mineralized tissue regeneration in skin wound healing, LPA inhibited the pyroptosis of keratinocyte, a cell death process that induces inflammation and scar formation by inhibiting the expression of TNF-α and β-catenin proteins. Thus, the electrospun PP scaffold with LPA can be potentially developed as a therapeutic avenue to target skin wound healing.

Mitophagy is closely associated with the pathogenesis of secondary spinal cord injury. Abnormal mitophagy may contribute significantly to secondary spinal cord injury, leading to the impaired production of adenosine triphosphate, ion imbalance, the excessive production of reactive oxygen species, neuroinflammation, and neuronal cell death. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate balance of mitophagy is crucial when treating spinal cord injury, as both excessive and insufficient mitophagy can impede recovery. In this review, we summarize the pathological changes associated with spinal cord injury, the mechanisms of mitophagy, and the direct and indirect relationships between mitophagy and spinal cord injury. We also consider therapeutic approaches that target mitophagy for the treatment of spinal cord injury, including ongoing clinical trials and other innovative therapies, such as use of stem cells, nanomaterials, and small molecule polymers. Finally, we highlight the current challenges facing this field and suggest potential directions for future research. The aim of our review is to provide a theoretical reference for future studies targeting mitophagy in the treatment of spinal cord injury.