Mitochondria-Targeting Type-I Photodrug: Harnessing Caspase-3 Activity for Pyroptotic Oncotherapy

Precise control of cellular signaling events during programmed cell death is crucial yet challenging for cancer therapy. The modulation of signal transduction in cancer cells holds promise but is limited by the lack of efficient, biocompatible, and spatiotemporally controllable approaches. Here we report a photodynamic strategy that modulates both apoptotic and pyroptotic cell death by altering caspase-3 protein activity and the associated signaling crosstalk. This strategy employs a mitochondria-targeting, near-infrared activatable probe (termed M-TOP) that functions via a type-I photochemical mechanism. M-TOP is less dependent on oxygen and more effective in treating drug-resistant cancer cells, even under hypoxic conditions. Our study shows that higher doses of M-TOP induce pyroptotic cell death via the caspase-3/gasdermin-E pathway, whereas lower doses lead to apoptosis. This photodynamic method is effective across diverse gasdermin-E-expressing cancer cells. Moreover, the M-TOP mediated shift from apoptotic to pyroptotic modulation can evoke a controlled inflammatory response, leading to a robust yet balanced immune reaction. This effectively inhibits both distal tumor growth and postsurgical tumor recurrence. This work demonstrates the feasibility of modulating intracellular signaling through the rational design of photodynamic anticancer drugs.

Correction: Hybrid lanthanide nanoparticles as a new class of binary contrast agents for in vivo T1/T2 dual-weighted MRI and synergistic tumor diagnosis

Correction for 'Hybrid lanthanide nanoparticles as a new class of binary contrast agents for in vivo T1/T2 dual-weighted MRI and synergistic tumor diagnosis' by Zhigao Yi et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2016, 4, 2715-2722, https://doi.org/10.1039/C5TB02375K.

Progressive plasticity during colorectal cancer metastasis

Metastasis is the principal cause of cancer death, yet we lack an understanding of metastatic cell states, their relationship to primary tumor states, and the mechanisms by which they transition. In a cohort of biospecimen trios from same-patient normal colon, primary and metastatic colorectal cancer, we show that while primary tumors largely adopt LGR5 + intestinal stem-like states, metastases display progressive plasticity. Loss of intestinal cell states is accompanied by reprogramming into a highly conserved fetal progenitor state, followed by non-canonical differentiation into divergent squamous and neuroendocrine-like states, which is exacerbated by chemotherapy and associated with poor patient survival. Using matched patient-derived organoids, we demonstrate that metastatic cancer cells exhibit greater cell-autonomous multilineage differentiation potential in response to microenvironment cues than their intestinal lineage-restricted primary tumor counterparts. We identify PROX1 as a stabilizer of intestinal lineage in the fetal progenitor state, whose downregulation licenses non-canonical reprogramming.

Surface Engineering of Lanthanide Nanoparticles for Oncotherapy

Surface-modified lanthanide nanoparticles have been widely developed as an emerging class of therapeutics for cancer treatment because they exhibit several unique properties. First, lanthanide nanoparticles exhibit a variety of diagnostic capabilities suitable for various image-guided therapies. Second, a large number of therapeutic molecules can be accommodated on the surface of lanthanide nanoparticles, which can simultaneously achieve combined cancer therapy. Third, multivalent targeting ligands on lanthanide nanoparticles can be easily modified to achieve high affinity and specificity for target cells. Last but not least, lanthanide nanoparticles can be engineered for spatially and temporally controlled tumor therapy, which is critical for developing precise and personalized tumor therapy. Surface-modified lanthanide-doped nanoparticles are widely used in cancer phototherapy. This is due to their unique optical properties, including large anti-Stokes shifts, long-lasting luminescence, high photostability, and the capacity for near-infrared or X-ray excitation. Upon near-infrared irradiation, these nanoparticles can emit ultraviolet to visible light, which activates photosensitizers and photothermal agents to destroy tumor cells. Surface modification with special ligands that respond to tumor microenvironment changes, such as acidic pH, hypoxia, or redox reactions, can turn lanthanide nanoparticles into a smart nanoplatform for light-guided tumor chemotherapy and gene therapy. Surface-engineered lanthanide nanoparticles can include antigens that elicit tumor-specific immune responses, as well as immune activators that boost immunity, allowing distant and metastatic tumors to be eradicated. The design of ligands and surface chemistry is crucial for improving cancer therapy without causing side effects. In this Account, we classify surface-modified lanthanide nanoparticles for tumor therapy into four main domains: phototherapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and biotherapy. We begin by introducing fundamental bioapplications and then discuss recent developments in tumor phototherapy (photodynamic therapy and photothermal therapy), radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and biotherapy (gene therapy and immunotherapy). We also assess the viability of a variety of strategies for eliminating tumor cells through innovative pathways. Finally, future opportunities and challenges for the development of more efficient lanthanide nanoprobes are discussed.

[Analysis on the allocation of human resources for chronic disease prevention and control in 664 district/county-level centers for disease control and prevention in China in 2020]

Objective: To analyze the allocation of human resources for chronic disease prevention and control of district/county-level centers for disease control and prevention(CDC) in China in 2020. Methods: Survey subjects were from National Chronic Noncommunicable Disease and Risk Factor Surveillance Sites and National Demonstration Areas for Chronic Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control (demonstration areas). A survey examining the allocation of human resources for chronic disease prevention and control at district/county-level CDC was conducted in December 2021 through the National Demonstration Areas Management Information System. The number and rate of allocation of human resources for chronic disease prevention and control in district/county-level CDC were analyzed and the Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare the difference between demonstration and non-demonstration areas and between urban and rural areas. The Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to compare the difference in east, central and west regions. The Gini coefficient and Theil index were used to evaluate the balance of human resource for chronic disease prevention and control. Results: A total of 678 districts/counties were investigated, and 664 districts/counties responded effectively, with an effective response rate of 97.9%. The establishment rate of district/county-level CDC was 98.34% (653/664), and the establishment rate of chronic disease prevention and control departments of district/county-level CDC was 96.02% (627/653). In 627 district/county-level CDC with departments for chronic disease prevention and control, the median number of full-time technical personnel for chronic disease prevention and control was 4, the median number of full-time technical personnel in demonstration areas (4 persons) was higher than in non-demonstration areas (3 persons), highest in the east region (5 persons) than in the middle region (4 persons) and the west region (4 persons), higher in urban areas (4 persons) than in rural areas (4 persons) (all P values<0.05). The allocation rate was 0.71 people/100 000, which was higher in demonstration areas (0.73 people/100 000) than in non-demonstration areas (0.67 people/100 000), highest in the west region (0.82 people/100 000) than in the middle region (0.71 people/100 000) and east region (0.67 people/100 000), higher in rural areas (0.77 people/100 000) than in urban areas (0.68 people/100 000) (all P values<0.05). The Gini coefficient for the allocation by population size was 0.352 9. The total Theil index for demonstration and non-demonstration areas, different regions, and urban-rural areas were 0.067 8, 0.076 3, and 0.000 2, with the intra-group contribution of 97.35%, 99.52%, and 98.80%, respectively. Conclusion: In 2020, the allocation of human resources for chronic disease prevention and control in district/county-level CDC is relatively balanced. The variation in the allocation of human resources for chronic disease prevention and control exist between demonstration and non-demonstration areas, urban and rural areas, and across regions.

Multimodal Tuning of Synaptic Plasticity Using Persistent Luminescent Memitters

Mimicking memory processes, including encoding, storing, and retrieving information, is critical for neuromorphic computing and artificial intelligence. Synaptic behavior simulations through electronic, magnetic, or photonic devices based on metal oxides, 2D materials, molecular complex and phase change materials, represent important strategies for performing computational tasks with enhanced power efficiency. Here, a special class of memristive materials based on persistent luminescent memitters (termed as a portmanteau of "memory" and "emitter") with optical characteristics closely resembling those of biological synapses is reported. The memory process and synaptic plasticity can be successfully emulated using such memitters under precisely controlled excitation frequency, wavelength, pulse number, and power density. The experimental and theoretical data suggest that electron-coupled trap nucleation and propagation through clustering in persistent luminescent memitters can explain experience-dependent plasticity. The use of persistent luminescent memitters for multichannel image memorization that allows direct visualization of subtle changes in luminescence intensity and realization of short-term and long-term memory is also demonstrated. These findings may promote the discovery of new functional materials as artificial synapses and enhance the understanding of memory mechanisms.

AB0339 EFFICACY, PHARMACOKINETICS AND SAFETY BETWEEN CT-P13 AND CHINA-APPROVED INFLIXIMAB: 54 WEEK RESULT FROM A PHASE III RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL IN CHINESE PATIENTS WITH ACTIVE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background

CT-P13 is an approved biosimilar to EU-approved and US-licensed Infliximab (INX) for the indications of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), adult and paediatric Crohn’s disease, adult and paediatric ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate equivalence of efficacy and compare PK and safety profiles of CT-P13 and China-approved INX.

Methods

In this randomized, double blinded, multicenter, parallel-group, phase III study, patients with active RA who had been responding inadequately to methotrexate for at least 3 months, were randomized to receive either CT-P13 or China-approved INX. Patients were treated with doses of 3 mg/kg at Weeks 0, 2, 6, then every 8 weeks up to Week 54. Prior to dosing at Week 30, patients randomized to China-approved INX underwent a second randomization either to continue China-approved INX or to switch to CT-P13 at Week 30. Results of patients who underwent transition to CT-P13 were included in the China-approved INX group. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in DAS28 (CRP) from baseline to Week 14, which was analyzed using an analysis of covariance. Equivalence was determined if the 90% CI for the estimate of treatment difference was entirely contained within the predefined equivalence margin of -0.6 to 0.6.

Results

270 patients were randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups in a 1:1 ratio (136 and 134 patients in the CT-P13 and China-approved INX groups, respectively) and 184 patients completed the study. The least square mean change (standard error) of DAS28 (CRP) from baseline to Week 14, -1.566 [0.1419] and -1.547 [0.1491], was similar between the CT-P13 and China-approved INX groups, respectively. The 90% CI for the estimate of treatment difference (-0.29, 0.25) was contained within the predefined equivalence margin, which demonstrated therapeutic equivalence between the groups. The mean actual values for DAS28 (CRP) decreased from baseline to Week 54 and were similar between the groups (Figure 1). Additional efficacy endpoints, including ACR responses (ACR20 at Week 14; 60.6%, 54.8% and at Week 54; 65.1%, 60.6% in the CT-P13 and China-approved INX groups, respectively), EULAR responses, CDAI, and SDAI, were similar between the groups, even after switching at Week 30. During the study, mean serum INX concentrations were similar between the groups. Between Weeks 14 and 22, mean (percent coefficient of variation) AUCτ were 11156333.615 (44.796) ng·h/mL and 11462884.280 (51.057) ng·h/mL, and Cmax,ss were 66577.2 (31.4) ng/mL and 66356.1 (21.0) ng/mL in the CT-P13 and China-approved INX groups, respectively, which were similar between the groups. Most treatment-emergent AEs were grade 1 or 2 in intensity. One malignancy was reported in the CT-P13 group and no deaths were reported. The proportions of patients with anti-drug antibodies were similar between the groups, even after switching at Week 30. The overall safety profile of CT-P13 was comparable to that of China-approved INX and no new safety issues were observed (Table 1).

Table 1.

Summary of Safety Results

Number of patients (%)CT-P13 (N=136)China-approved Infliximab (N=133)Treatment-emergent AEsTotal115 (84.6%)107 (80.5%)Related97 (71.3%)86 (64.7%)Treatment-emergent serious AEsTotal17 (12.5%)12 (9.0%)Related10 (7.4%)6 (4.5%)Infusion related reaction/ hypersensitivity/anaphylactic reactionsTotal(=Related)20 (14.7%)19 (14.3%)InfectionsTotal45 (33.1%)43 (32.3%)Related36 (26.5%)40 (30.1%)

Note: Summary is presented for the safety population who received at least 1 dose (full or partial) of study drug.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that efficacy of CT-P13 is equivalent to that of China-approved INX. Also, the PK and safety profiles of CT-P13 were comparable to those of China-approved INX. No loss of efficacy or difference in safety or immunogenicity was observed after switching from China-approved INX to CT-P13 at Week 30.

Disclosure of Interests

Jonathan Kay Consultant of: Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH; Pfizer Inc.; Samsung Bioepis; Sandoz Inc., Grant/research support from: Pfizer Inc. (paid to UMass Chan Medical School), Xiaofeng Zeng Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Lin Chen Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Kaijiang Tang Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, guixiu shi Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Lin Liu Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Lijun Wu Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Yi Liu Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Jiankang Hu Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Shengyun Liu Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Zheng Yi Grant/research support from: Celltrion, Inc, Sung Hyun Kim Employee of: Celltrion, Inc, YunJu Bae Employee of: Celltrion, Inc, JeeHye Suh Employee of: Celltrion, Inc, Seungjin Rhee Employee of: Celltrion, Inc, SeulGi Lee Employee of: Celltrion, Inc, Chankyoung Hwang Employee of: Celltrion, Inc

High-Specificity In Vivo Tumor Imaging Using Bioorthogonal NIR-IIb Nanoparticles

Lanthanide-based NIR-IIb nanoprobes are ideal for in vivo imaging. However, existing NIR-IIb nanoprobes often suffer from low tumor-targeting specificity, limiting their widespread use. Here the application of bioorthogonal nanoprobes with high tumor-targeting specificity for in vivo NIR-IIb luminescence imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is reported. These dual-modality nanoprobes can enhance NIR-IIb emission by 20-fold and MRI signal by twofold, compared with non-bioorthogonal nanoprobes in murine subcutaneous tumors. Moreover, these bioorthogonal probes enable orthotopic brain tumor imaging. Implementation of bio-orthogonal chemistry significantly reduces the nanoprobe dose and hence cytotoxicity, providing a paradigm for real-time in vivo visualization of tumors.

Spatiotemporal changes of CT manifestations in 110 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to analyze spatiotemporal changes of CT manifestations in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this retrospective review, 110 patients with confirmed COVID-19 by RT-PCR form February 16, 2020, to March 28, 2020 were included. A total of 449 CT scans were reviewed. We analyze the type and distribution of lung abnormalities, and CT general assessment and lesion area statistics were performed. Patients were divided into mild, moderate, and severe disease based on Chinese guidelines: mild (patients with minimal symptoms, CT scans showed no pneumonia or a small area of pneumonia infection), moderate (different extent of clinical manifestations and CT scans showed multiple pneumonia infections in both lungs), severe disease (respiratory distress, CT scans lesion area exceeds 50%, and the lesion contains consolidation). The proportion of patients with mild, moderate and severe diseases was counted.

RESULTS

The CT score and the area involved reached a peak (median 10) on illness days 7-12, and then, continued to be at a high level. The main abnormal pattern after symptoms appeared GGO (36/94 [36%] to 40/65 [62%] in different periods). The proportion of mixed reached its peak on illness days 13-18 (36/93 [39%]). Pure GGO was the most common subtype of GGO (24 of 60 CT scans [40%] to 23 of 33 CT scans [70%]) after symptoms onset. The ratio of GGO with irregular lines and interfaces peaked on illness days 7-12 (6/34 [18%]). The lesions are mainly distributed on both sides and under the pleura. 76/84 (90%) of discharged patients had residual lesions on the final CT scans. 4 confirmed patients' CT scans did not show lesions (on illness days 1-24 days). There were 47 mild cases (42.7%), 46 moderate cases (41.8%), and 7 severe cases (6.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of lung abnormality on the CT of the patients reached the peak on the 7th to 12th days of the disease. CT performance changes with time have a certain regularity, which may indicate the progress and recovery of the disease. 90% of patients still observed residual lung abnormalities in CT images at the time of discharge. There were 4 confirmed cases where the CT images did not show the lesion; hence, CT cannot be used as a basis for judging COVID-19 as a single tool.

Mapping Drug-Induced Neuropathy through In-Situ Motor Protein Tracking and Machine Learning

Chemotherapy can induce toxicity in the central and peripheral nervous systems and result in chronic adverse reactions that impede continuous treatment and reduce patient quality of life. There is a current lack of research to predict, identify, and offset drug-induced neurotoxicity. Rapid and accurate assessment of potential neuropathy is crucial for cost-effective diagnosis and treatment. Here we report dynamic near-infrared upconversion imaging that allows intraneuronal transport to be traced in real time with millisecond resolution, but without photobleaching or blinking. Drug-induced neurotoxicity can be screened prior to phenotyping, on the basis of subtle abnormalities of kinetic characteristics in intraneuronal transport. Moreover, we demonstrate that combining the upconverting nanoplatform with machine learning offers a powerful tool for mapping chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and assessing drug-induced neurotoxicity.

Continuous-wave near-infrared stimulated-emission depletion microscopy using downshifting lanthanide nanoparticles

Stimulated-emission depletion (STED) microscopy has profoundly extended our horizons to the subcellular level^1-3. However, it remains challenging to perform hours-long, autofluorescence-free super-resolution imaging in near-infrared (NIR) optical windows under facile continuous-wave laser depletion at low power^4,5. Here we report downshifting lanthanide nanoparticles that enable background-suppressed STED imaging in all-NIR spectral bands (λ_excitation = 808 nm, λ_depletion = 1,064 nm and λ_emission = 850-900 nm), with a lateral resolution of below 20 nm and zero photobleaching. With a quasi-four-level configuration and long-lived (τ > 100 μs) metastable states, these nanoparticles support near-unity (98.8%) luminescence suppression under 19 kW cm^-2 saturation intensity. The all-NIR regime enables high-contrast deep-tissue (~50 μm) imaging with approximately 70 nm spatial resolution. These lanthanide nanoprobes promise to expand the application realm of STED microscopy and pave the way towards high-resolution time-lapse investigations of cellular processes at superior spatial and temporal dimensions.

Photon upconversion through triplet exciton-mediated energy relay

Exploration of upconversion luminescence from lanthanide emitters through energy migration has profound implications for fundamental research and technology development. However, energy migration-mediated upconversion requires stringent experimental conditions, such as high power excitation and special migratory ions in the host lattice, imposing selection constraints on lanthanide emitters. Here we demonstrate photon upconversion of diverse lanthanide emitters by harnessing triplet exciton-mediated energy relay. Compared with gadolinium-based systems, this energy relay is less dependent on excitation power and enhances the emission intensity of Tb3+ by 158-fold. Mechanistic investigations reveal that emission enhancement is attributable to strong coupling between lanthanides and surface molecules, which enables fast triplet generation (<100 ps) and subsequent near-unity triplet transfer efficiency from surface ligands to lanthanides. Moreover, the energy relay approach supports long-distance energy transfer and allows upconversion modulation in microstructures. These findings enhance fundamental understanding of energy transfer at molecule-nanoparticle interfaces and open exciting avenues for developing hybrid, high-performance optical materials.

Self-Adjuvanted Molecular Activator (SeaMac) Nanovaccines Promote Cancer Immunotherapy

Neoantigen-based immunotherapy is a promising treatment option for many types of cancer. However, its efficacy and abscopal effect are limited by impotent neoantigens, high treatment costs, and complications due to action of adjuvants. Here, the design and synthesis of nanovaccines are reported, based on self-adjuvanted, polymer nanoparticles with in vivo neoantigen-harvesting and molecular activating capabilities. These nanovaccines inhibit tumor growth significantly and prolong the survival of tumor-bearing mice in both colon carcinoma 26 (CT26) and B16-F10 tumor models. Mechanistic studies suggest that as-synthesized nanovaccines can promote dendritic cell maturation and accumulation expeditiously in lymph nodes, leading to the expansion of cytotoxic CD8⁺ T cells. Moreover, these nanovaccines elicit abscopal effects in CT26 and B16-F10 tumors without the need for adjuvants or immune checkpoint inhibitors. Combined with an anti-PD-L1 antibody, nanovaccines can evoke robust, long-term memory immune response, as evidenced by tumor growth inhibition and high survival rates (∼ 67%) over 90 days. These results highlight the potential of using self-adjuvanted nanovaccines as a simple, safe, and affordable strategy to boost neoantigen-based cancer immunotherapy.

Distinct peripheral blood molecular signature emerges with successful tacrolimus withdrawal in kidney transplant recipients

Tacrolimus (Tac) is an effective anti-rejection agent in kidney transplantation, but its off-target effects make withdrawal desirable. Although studies indicate that Tac can be safely withdrawn in a subset of kidney transplant recipients, immune mechanisms that underlie successful vs unsuccessful Tac removal are unknown. We performed microarray analyses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) RNA from subjects enrolled in the Clinical Trials in Organ Transplantation-09 study in which we randomized stable kidney transplant recipients to Tac withdrawal or maintenance of standard immunosuppression beginning 6 months after transplant. Eight of 14 subjects attempted but failed withdrawal, while six developed stable graft function for ≥2 years on mycophenolate mofetil plus prednisone. Whereas failed withdrawal upregulated immune activation genes, successful Tac withdrawal was associated with a downregulatory and proapoptotic gene program enriched within T cells. Functional analyses suggested stronger donor-reactive immunity in subjects who failed withdrawal without evidence of regulatory T cell dysfunction. Together, our data from a small, but unique, patient cohort support the conclusion that successful Tac withdrawal is not simply due to absence of donor-reactive immunity but rather is associated with an active immunological process.

Lanthanide-Activated Nanoparticles: A Toolbox for Bioimaging, Therapeutics, and Neuromodulation

Owing to their unique features, the past decade has witnessed rapid developments of lanthanide-activated nanoparticles for biological applications. These include highly tunable upconverting and downshifting photoluminescence when illuminated in deep tissue, excellent photostability against blinking and bleaching effects, biocompatibility through versatile surface modification, and ease of achieving multifunctionality, as well as satisfactory signal output. These attributes make lanthanide-doped nanoparticles an ideal toolbox for advanced bioimaging and next-generation therapeutics.The interest in lanthanide-doped nanoparticles for biomedical research arises from their unique optical properties in response to deep-tissue-penetrable light sources. Upon near-infrared irradiation, these nanoparticles with properly doped emitters display photon upconversion with large anti-Stokes shifts and broad-spectrum tunability from the ultraviolet to the visible. It is also possible to achieve orthogonal photoluminescence with variations in wavelength and lifetime. Coupled with surface ligands, dyes, biomolecules, or other types of functional nanomaterials, lanthanide-doped nanoparticles offer new opportunities for applications in bioimaging, advanced oncotherapy, and neuromodulation. Given the possibility of locating downshifting luminescence at "biological transmission windows", exquisite design of lanthanide-doped nanoparticles also enables deep-tissue imaging with high spatial resolution. In addition, these nanoparticles can respond to high-energy photons, such as X-rays, to trigger nonradioactive and radiative pathways, making it possible to develop high-sensitivity X-ray detectors. Precise control of paramagnetic lanthanide ions in nanocrystal lattices also provides advanced materials for high-performance magnetic resonance imaging in medical diagnostics and biomedical research. Full consideration of fundamental attributes of lanthanide-doped nanoparticles will facilitate the design of multifunctional and sensitive probes and improve diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.In this Account, we categorize various lanthanide-activation strategies into three modes: near-infrared excitation, X-ray irradiation, and magnetic field stimulation. We introduce energy manipulations in upconverting, downshifting, and persistence luminescence in spectral and time domains and discuss how they can be applied in biological practices. We assess general design principles for lanthanide-activated nanosystems with multiple modalities of bioimaging, oncotherapy, and neuromodulation. We also review the current state-of-the-art in the field of lanthanide-based theranostic nanoplatforms, with particular emphasis on energy conversion and nano-/biointerfacing as well as emerging bioapplications. In this context, we also highlight recent advances in controlling optical properties of nanoplatforms for single- or multimodal bioimaging, stimulus-responsive phototherapy, and optogenetics. Finally, we discuss future opportunities and challenges of this exciting research field.

Decoding a Percolation Phase Transition of Water at ∼330 K with a Nanoparticle Ruler

Liquid water, despite its simple molecular structure, remains one of the most fascinating and complex substances. Most notably, many questions continue to exist regarding the phase transitions and anomalous properties of water, which are subtle to observe experimentally. Here, we report a sharp transition in water at 330 K unveiled through experimental measurements of the instantaneous Brownian velocity of NaYF₄:Yb/Er upconversion nanoparticles in water. Our experimental investigations, corroborated by molecular dynamics simulations, elucidate a geometrical phase transition where a low-density liquid (LDL) clusters become percolated below 330 K. Around this critical temperature, we find the sizes of the LDL clusters to be similar to those of the nanoparticles, confirming the role of the upconversion nanoparticle as a powerful ruler for measuring the extensiveness of the LDL hydrogen-bond network and nanometer-scale spatial changes (20-100 nm) in liquids. Additionally, a new order parameter that unequivocally classifies water molecules into two local geometric states is introduced, providing a new tool for understanding and modeling water's many anomalous properties and phase transitions.

Nanotunnels within Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-Carbon Nanotube Composite for Highly Sensitive Neural Interfacing

Neural electrodes are developed for direct communication with neural tissues for theranostics. Although various strategies have been employed to improve performance, creating an intimate electrode-tissue interface with high electrical fidelity remains a great challenge. Here, we report the rational design of a tunnel-like electrode coating comprising poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for highly sensitive neural recording. The coated electrode shows a 50-fold reduction in electrochemical impedance at the biologically relevant frequency of 1 kHz, compared to the bare gold electrode. The incorporation of CNT significantly reinforces the nanotunnel structure and improves coating adhesion by ∼1.5 fold. In vitro primary neuron culture confirms an intimate contact between neurons and the PEDOT-CNT nanotunnel. During acute in vivo nerve recording, the coated electrode enables the capture of high-fidelity neural signals with low susceptibility to electrical noise and reveals the potential for precisely decoding sensory information through mechanical and thermal stimulation. These findings indicate that the PEDOT-CNT nanotunnel composite serves as an active interfacing material for neural electrodes, contributing to neural prosthesis and brain-machine interface.

Combating the Coronavirus Pandemic: Early Detection, Medical Treatment, and a Concerted Effort by the Global Community

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus, known as 2019-nCoV, a pandemic, as the coronavirus has now infected over 2.6 million people globally and caused more than 185,000 fatalities as of April 23, 2020. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes a respiratory illness with symptoms such as dry cough, fever, sudden loss of smell, and, in more severe cases, difficulty breathing. To date, there is no specific vaccine or treatment proven effective against this viral disease. Early and accurate diagnosis of COVID-19 is thus critical to curbing its spread and improving health outcomes. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is commonly used to detect the presence of COVID-19. Other techniques, such as recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), and microfluidics, have allowed better disease diagnosis. Here, as part of the effort to expand screening capacity, we review advances and challenges in the rapid detection of COVID-19 by targeting nucleic acids, antigens, or antibodies. We also summarize potential treatments and vaccines against COVID-19 and discuss ongoing clinical trials of interventions to reduce viral progression.

AIEgen-coupled upconversion nanoparticles eradicate solid tumors through dual-mode ROS activation

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are essential for the regulation of antitumor immune responses, where they could induce immunogenic cell death, promote antigen presentation, and activate immune cells. Here, we report the development of near-infrared (NIR)-driven immunostimulants, based on coupling upconversion nanoparticles with aggregation-induced emission luminogens (AIEgens), to integrate the immunological effects of ROS for enhanced adaptive antitumor immune responses. Intratumorally injected AIEgen-upconversion nanoparticles produce high-dose ROS under high-power NIR irradiation, which induces immunogenic cell death and antigen release. These nanoparticles can also capture the released antigens and deliver them to lymph nodes. Upon subsequent low-power NIR treatment of lymph nodes, low-dose ROS are generated to further trigger efficient T cell immune responses through activation of dendritic cells, preventing both local tumor recurrence and distant tumor growth. The utility of dual-mode pumping power on AIEgen-coupled upconversion nanoparticles offers a powerful and controllable platform to activate adaptive immune systems for tumor immunotherapy.

A rare case of association between Budd-Chiari syndrome and sea-blue histiocytosis

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare disease characterized by obstruction of hepatic venous outflow tract with diversified etiologies. Sea-blue histiocytosis (SBH) is a kind of storage diseases defined by the deposition of abundant sea-blue histiocytes in various organs and can lead to hepatosplenomegaly, cirrhosis, or even liver failure. The association between BCS and SBH has never been reported before. Here, we report a patient with BCS presenting with hepatosplenomegaly, portal hypertension, and pancytopenia who was later confirmed to also have SBH.

Expanding the Toolbox of Upconversion Nanoparticles for In Vivo Optogenetics and Neuromodulation

Optogenetics is an optical technique that exploits visible light for selective neuromodulation with spatio-temporal precision. Despite enormous effort, the effective stimulation of targeted neurons, which are located in deeper structures of the nervous system, by visible light, remains a technical challenge. Compared to visible light, near-infrared illumination offers a higher depth of tissue penetration owing to a lower degree of light attenuation. Herein, an overview of advances in developing new modalities for neural circuitry modulation utilizing upconversion-nanoparticle-mediated optogenetics is presented. These developments have led to minimally invasive optical stimulation and inhibition of neurons with substantially improved selectivity, sensitivity, and spatial resolution. The focus is to provide a comprehensive review of the mechanistic basis for evaluating upconversion parameters, which will be useful in designing, executing, and reporting optogenetic experiments.

In Vivo Tumor Visualization through MRI Off-On Switching of NaGdF4 -CaCO3 Nanoconjugates

The development of high-performance contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has recently received considerable attention, as they hold great promise and potential as a powerful tool for cancer diagnosis. Despite substantial achievements, it remains challenging to develop nanostructure-based biocompatible platforms that can generate on-demand MRI signals with high signal-to-noise ratios and good tumor specificity. Here, the design and synthesis of a new class of nanoparticle-based contrast agents comprising self-assembled NaGdF₄ and CaCO₃ nanoconjugates is reported. In this design, the spatial confinement of the T₁ source (Gd³⁺ ions) leads to an "OFF" MRI signal due to insufficient interaction between the protons and the crystal lattices. However, when immersed in the mildly acidic tumor microenvironment, the embedded CaCO₃ nanoparticles generate CO₂ bubbles and subsequently disconnect the nanoconjugate, thus resulting in an "ON" MRI signal. The in vivo performance of these nanoconjugates shows more than 60-fold contrast enhancement in tumor visualization relative to the commercially used contrast agent Magnevist. This work presents a significant advance in the construction of smart MRI nanoprobes ideally suited for deep-tissue imaging and target-specific cancer diagnosis.

Cadmium uptake by onions, lettuce and spinach in New Zealand: Implications for management to meet regulatory limits

Paired soil and plant samples collected from the main commercial growing areas for onions (Allium cepa), lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and spinach (Spinacia olearacea) in New Zealand were used to assess the influence of plant and soil factors on cadmium (Cd) uptake in these crops. Differences in Cd concentration between eight lettuce sub-types were not consistent across sites, nor were differences in Cd concentrations in three crisphead cultivars assessed at two sites. Similarly, differences in Cd concentrations between four onion cultivars were inconsistent across sites. Mean lettuce Cd concentrations in eight lettuce varieties (range 0.005-0.034 mg∙kg-1 (fresh weight, FW) were markedly lower than those in baby leaf and bunching spinach, (range 0.005-0.19 mg∙kg-1 FW). Significant regional variation was observed in Cd concentrations in one onion cultivar (mean range 0.007-0.05 mg∙kg-1 FW). Soil Cd concentration, pH and region were statistically significant predictors of onion Cd concentration, explaining low (38% for soil Cd and pH) to moderate (50% for all three parameters) percentage of the variation. Soil Cd concentration and exchangeable magnesium or total carbon were statistically significant predictors of Cd concentration in baby leaf and bunching spinach, respectively, explaining a moderate percentage (49% and 42%) of the variation in Cd concentration. Increasing pH and soil carbon may assist in minimising Cd uptake in onion and bunching spinach, respectively. The low to moderate proportion of explained variation is partly attributable to the narrow range in some measured soil properties and indicates factors other than those assessed are influencing plant uptake. This highlights a challenge in using these relationships to develop risk-based soil guideline values to support compliance with food standards. Similarly, the inconsistency in Cd concentrations in different cultivars across sites highlights the need for multi-site assessments to confirm the low Cd accumulation status of different cultivars.

[Regulation mechanism of E2F1 transcription factor on M2 macrophages in full-thickness skin defect wounds of mice]

Objective: To explore the regulatory mechanism of E2F1 transcription factor on M2 macrophages in full-thickness skin defect wounds of mice. Methods: E2F1 gene knockout heterozygotes C57BL/6 mice and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were introduced and self-reproduced. Two weeks after birth, E2F1 gene knockout homozygotes mice and wild-type mice were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Twelve identified 6-8 weeks old male E2F1 gene knockout homozygotes C57BL/6 mice and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were selected respectively according to the random number table and set as E2F1 gene knockout group and wild-type group. A full-thickness skin defect wound was made on the back of each mouse. On post injury day (PID) 2 and 7, 6 mice in each group were selected according to the random number table and sacrificed, and the wound tissue was excised. The expression of CD68 and CD206 double positive M2 macrophages was observed by immunofluorescence method, and the percentage of CD206 positive cells was calculated. The protein expression of CD206 was detected by Western blotting. The mRNA expression of arginase 1 was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). Wound tissue specimens of the two groups on PID 7 were obtained, and the protein and mRNA expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) were detected by Western blotting and real-time fluorescent quantitative RT-PCR respectively. The above-mentioned experiments were repeated four times. Three specimens of wound tissue of mice in wild-type group on PID 7 were obtained to detect the relationship between E2F1 and PPAR-γ by co-immunoprecipitation and Western blotting, and this experiment was repeated two times. Data were processed with unpaired t test. Results: The size of PCR products of E2F1 gene knockout homozygotes C57BL/6 mice and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were 227 and 172 bp respectively, which were the same as those of the designed DNA fragments. On PID 2 and 7, the number of CD68 and CD206 double positive M2 macrophages in the wound tissue of mice in E2F1 gene knockout group was more than that of wild-type group, and the percentages of CD206 positive cells in the wound tissue of mice in E2F1 gene knockout group were (0.234±0.032)% and (0.584±0.023)% respectively, which were significantly higher than (0.129±0.017)% and (0.282±0.071)% of wild-type group (t=3.29, 3.54, P<0.05). On PID 2 and 7, the protein expression of CD206 in the wound tissue of mice in E2F1 gene knockout group were 1.00±0.23 and 1.63±0.26 respectively, which were significantly higher than 0.43±0.06 and 0.97±0.08 of wild-type group (t=2.41, 2.45, P<0.05). On PID 2 and 7, the mRNA expressions of arginase 1 in the wound tissue of mice in E2F1 gene knockout group were 0.482±0.105 and 0.195±0.031 respectively, which were significantly higher than 0.163±0.026 and 0.108±0.017 of wild-type group (t=3.04, 2.86, P<0.05). On PID 7, the protein and mRNA expressions of PPAR-γ in the wound tissue of mice in E2F1 gene knockout group were 0.61±0.12 and 0.51±0.13 respectively, which were significantly higher than 0.20±0.04 and 0.20±0.04 of wild-type group (t=3.36, 2.86, P<0.05). On PID 7, detection of the wound tissue of mice in wild-type group showed that PPAR-γ had unidirectional effect on E2F1. Conclusions: E2F1 transcription factor affects the polarization of M2 macrophages by inhibiting the expression of PPAR-γ, thereby inhibiting the healing process of full-thickness skin defect wounds in mice.

γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Induced in Vitro Differentiation of Rat Pancreatic Ductal Stem Cells into Insulin-Secreting Islet-Like Cell Clusters

In vitro produced β-like cells can provide promising cell therapy for curing the epidemic of diabetes. In this context, we aimed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the differentiation of rat pancreatic ductal epithelial-like stem cells (PDESCs) into β-like cells. The PDESC line cells were cultured in the basal media (DMEM/F12 + 10% FBS + 1% penicillinstreptomycin) supplemented with 0 μM, 5 μM, 50 μM, 500 μM, and 5 mM of GABA for 28 days to induce their differentiation. The differentiated cells were detected by cell morphology, dithizone (DTZ) staining, immunofluorescence staining, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) assay to validate their identity. At the end of 28 days, compared with the control group, enrichment of induced cells was high among the 5 μM, 50 μM, 500 μM, and 5 mM GABA induction groups. The formation of islet-like cell clusters (ICCs) began at 14 days, and the cell clusters showed a growth trend with the culture time. The induced ICCs were positive for DTZ staining, while the control group showed negative results for DTZ staining and the differentiated cells were also positive for β-cell-specific markers (Ins1 and Pdx1). GSIS assay of 50 μM induction group cells at 28 days showed significantly higher levels of C-peptide and insulin secretion than the control, 5 μM, 500 μM, and 5 mM GABA-treated groups (P < 0.01). At the same time, the 50 μM induction group cells also showed significantly higher levels of Ins1, Pdx1 and Nkx6.1 mRNA as compared to the 5 μM, 500 μM and 5 mM GABA groups (P < 0.01). Thus, the addition of GABA to the basal medium effectively induced differentiation of adult rat PDESCs into insulin-secreting β-like cells, and 50 μM was the most effective concentration for the induction.

Complication Follow-up With Ultrasonographic Analyses of 91 Cases With Donor Gallbladder Preservation in Living Donor Liver Transplantation of Left Lateral Sectionectomies

BACKGROUND

Preserving the donor's gallbladder during living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a better method for liver transplantation surgery, but not enough is known about gallbladder complications after the operation.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated postsurgical donor gallbladder complications in clinical LDLT with gallbladder preservation. The feasibility of retaining the gallbladder during liver graft procurement is discussed. Ninety-one donors with retained gallbladder after LDLT with the hepatic left lateral sectionectomy (from June 2013 to October 2015) were retrospectively analyzed. Donors were followed for 12.6 to 40.7 months after surgery (median 26.1 months). Sonography was used to evaluate gallbladder characteristics before and after surgery.

RESULTS

Gallbladder function had recovered to almost normal 1 month after transplantation. Four donors (4.40%) experienced gallbladder enlargement that resolved after 3 days. Thickening of the gallbladder wall in 31 donors (34.07%) was restored within 2 to 75 days. Biliary sludge appeared in 9 donors (9.89%); 6 of them recovered within 3 to 34 days. Three (3.30%) and 1 donor (1.10%) suffered gallstone and gallbladder polyps, respectively, which persisted until the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The rate of postoperative complications of the gallbladder in donors was relative low. Preserving the gallbladder in liver transplantation donors during liver graft procurement is feasible and safe.

Dopant-dependent crystallization and photothermal effect of Sb-doped SnO2 nanoparticles as stable theranostic nanoagents for tumor ablation

Ideal theranostic nanoagents should be "all-in-one" type nanocrystals that have a single-semiconductor component and all-required properties (such as imaging and photothermal effects), but most semiconductor nanocrystals do not have these required properties. With SnO₂ as a model of a typical wide-band semiconductor, we report the tuning from UV-responsive SnO₂ to blue SnO₂ nanocrystals with imaging ability and a Sb-doping-dependent photothermal effect. Sb-Doped SnO₂ nanocrystals were prepared by heating SbCl₃ and SnCl₄ in benzyl alcohol solution through a facile solvothermal route. When the SbCl₃/SnCl₄ molar ratio increases from 0 to 0.2/1, the obtained samples exhibit an increased photothermal effect under the irradiation of a 1064 nm laser, accompanied by gradually decreased size and crystallinity. With a further increase of the molar ratio from 0.3/1.0 to 1.0/1.0, the resulting samples demonstrate the tetragonal SnO₂ phase with amorphous-like compounds and they show no obvious enhancement of a photothermal effect. After a surface modification with biological molecules, the optimized Sb_0.2-SnO₂ nanocrystals demonstrated good stability and a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 48.3% as well as low cytotoxicity. When Sb_0.2-SnO₂ was injected into a tumor of mice, the tumor could be simultaneously detected by X-ray computed tomography (CT) and photoacoustic (PA) imaging, and then thermally ablated when exposed to a 1064 nm laser. Therefore, these nanocrystals can be used as "all-in-one" type nanoagents for imaging guided photothermal ablation of tumors under the irradiation of a laser in the second bio-transparent window.

Role of adipocyte mitochondria in inflammation, lipemia and insulin sensitivity in humans: effects of pioglitazone treatment

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To gain further insight into the role of adipocyte mitochondria in systemic lipid metabolism, inflammation and insulin sensitivity in humans and to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonist pioglitazone.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number, mitochondrial distribution, mitochondrial and overall cellular protein abundances as well as intrinsic mitochondrial function of subcutaneous adipocytes were assessed by real-time quantitative PCR, MitoTracker staining, global proteomics analyses and NADH cytochrome c reductase activity in insulin-sensitive, normal-glucose-tolerant (NGT) individuals and age, gender, adiposity-matched insulin-resistant individuals with abnormal glucose tolerant (AGT) before and after 3 months of pioglitazone treatment.

RESULTS

mtDNA copy number/adipocyte and mtDNA copy number/adipocyte volume were ~55% and ~4-fold lower in AGT than in NGT, respectively, and correlated positively with the M-value of euglycemic clamps and high-density lipoprotein, and negatively with fasting plasma triglyceride, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 levels in the entire cohort. mtDNA copy number/adipocyte volume also correlated positively with plasma adiponectin. Pioglitazone, which improved insulin sensitivity, plasma lipids and inflammation, increased the mitochondrial copy number, and led to a redistribution of mitochondria from a punctate to a more reticular pattern as observed in NGT. This was accompanied by disproportionately increased abundances of mitochondrial proteins, including those involved in fat oxidation and triglyceride synthesis. Pioglitazone also increased the abundance of collagen VI and decreased the abundance of cytoskeletal proteins. NADH cytochrome c reductase activity of isolated adipocyte mitochondria was similar in AGT and NGT and unaltered by pioglitazone.

CONCLUSIONS

Adipocyte mitochondria are deficient in insulin-resistant individuals and correlate with systemic lipid metabolism, inflammation and insulin sensitivity. Pioglitazone induces mitochondrial biogenesis and reorganization as well as the synthesis of mitochondrial proteins including those critical for lipid metabolism. It also alters extracellular matrix and cytoskeletal proteins. The intrinsic function of adipocyte mitochondria appears unaffected in insulin resistance and by pioglitazone.International Journal of Obesity advance online publication, 31 October 2017; doi:10.1038/ijo.2017.192.

Confining Excitation Energy in Er3+ -Sensitized Upconversion Nanocrystals through Tm3+ -Mediated Transient Energy Trapping

A new class of lanthanide-doped upconversion nanoparticles are presented that are without Yb³⁺ or Nd³⁺ sensitizers in the host lattice. In erbium-enriched core-shell NaErF₄ :Tm (0.5 mol %)@NaYF₄ nanoparticles, a high degree of energy migration between Er³⁺ ions occurs to suppress the effect of concentration quenching upon surface coating. Unlike the conventional Yb³⁺ -Er³⁺ system, the Er³⁺ ion can serve as both the sensitizer and activator to enable an effective upconversion process. Importantly, an appropriate doping of Tm³⁺ has been demonstrated to further enhance upconversion luminescence through energy trapping. This endows the resultant nanoparticles with bright red (about 700-fold enhancement) and near-infrared luminescence that is achievable under multiple excitation wavelengths. This is a fundamental new pathway to mitigate the concentration quenching effect, thus offering a convenient method for red-emitting upconversion nanoprobes for biological applications.

Multifunctional BaYbF5: Gd/Er upconversion nanoparticles for in vivo tri-modal upconversion optical, X-ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Development of high-quality upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) with combination of the merits of multiple molecular imaging techniques, such as, upconversion luminescence (UCL) imaging, X-ray computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, could significantly improve the accuracy of biological diagnosis. In this work, multifunctional BaYbF₅: Gd/Er (50:2mol%) UCNPs were synthesized via a solvothermal method using oleic acid (OA) as surface ligands (denoted as OA-UCNPs). The OA-UCNPs were further treated by diluted HCl to form ligand-free UCNPs (LF-UCNPs) for later bioimaging applications. The cytotoxicity assay in HeLa cells shows low cell toxicity of these LF-UCNPs. Owing to the efficient UCL of BaYbF₅: Gd/Er, the LF-UCNPs were successfully used as luminescent bioprobe in UCL bioimaging. And, X-ray CT imaging reveals that BaYbF₅: Gd/Er UCNPs can act as potential contrast agents for detection of the liver and spleen in the live mice owing to the high-Z elements (e.g., Ba, Yb, and Gd) in host matrix. Moreover, with the addition of Gd, the as-designed UCNPs exhibit additional positive contrast enhancement in T₁-weighted MR imaging. These findings demonstrate that BaYbF₅: Gd/Er UCNPs are potential candidates for tri-modal imaging.

Sequence analysis of peste des petits ruminants virus from ibexes in Xinjiang, China

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an infectious disease caused by peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). While PPR mainly affects domestic goats and sheep, it also affects wild ungulates such as ibex, blue sheep, and gazelle, although there are few reports regarding PPRV infection in wild animals. Between January 2015 and February 2015, it was found for the first time that wild ibexes died from PPRV infection in Bazhou, Xinjiang, China, where a total of 38 ibexes (including young and adult ibexes) were found to have died abnormally from PPR-related issues. First, we tested for the presence of the F gene of PPRV by RT-PCR. Then, we compared the sequence of the isolated F gene from the ibex strain, termed PPRV Xinjiang/Ibex/2015, with those previously identified from small domestic ruminants from local areas near where the reported isolate was collected as well as those from other regions. The current sequence was phylogenetically classified as a lineage IV virus, and shared a high level of sequence identity (99.7%) with a previously described Xinjiang PPRV isolate.

Expression of LRIG1 in pituitary tumor and its clinical significance

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the expression of leucine-rich and immunoglobulin-like domain gene1 (LRIG1) in pituitary tumor and its clinical significance.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were divided into two groups: hypophysoma group (n = 80) and normal group (normal brain tissue, n = 30). The immune tissue chemical streptavidin avidin-peroxidase was applied to detect the expression of LRIG1 of both groups and to analyze its relationship with the patients' prognosis.

RESULTS

The positive expression rate of LRIG1 in normal brain tissues was significantly higher than that in pituitary adenomas (100% vs. 53.8%) (p < 0.05). The positive expression rate of LRIG1 in pituitary tumors was not significantly related to age and gender, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The positive expression rate of LRIGl in non-invasive pituitary adenomas was higher than that in invasive pituitary tumors (68.4% vs. 21.7%), the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Cox multivariate survival analysis showed that LRIG1 can be used as an independent factor for prognosis evaluation. Meier survival analysis showed that the LRIG1 and pituitary tumor types were significantly associated with the prognosis of patients (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

LRIG1 was involved in the occurrence and development of pituitary tumor, the expression of LRIG1 can be used as an indicator for prognosis evaluation, and low expression indicated a poor prognosis.

Hybrid lanthanide nanoparticles as a new class of binary contrast agents for in vivo T1/T2 dual-weighted MRI and synergistic tumor diagnosis

Lanthanide nanoparticles (NPs), which are known as upconversion fluorescence probes for multimodal bioimaging, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have attracted much attentions. In MRI, conventional contrast agents are generally employed separately in a single type of MRI. T1- and T2-weighted MRI alone have unique limitations; therefore, it is urgently necessary to combine the two modalities so as to be able to provide more comprehensive and synergistic diagnostic information than the single modality of MRI. Unfortunately, there is a lack of advanced materials as enhancing agents which are fully suitable for bimodal MRI. Here, we report a new class of hybrid lanthanide nanoparticles as synergistic contrast agents in T1/T2 dual-weighted MRI and imaging-directed tumor diagnosis. The r2/r1 value of BaGdF5 NPs can be readily adjusted from 2.8 to 334.8 by doping with 0%, 50%, or 100% Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Yb3+, Er3+, or Dy3+), respectively. Among these, BaGdF5:50% Er3+ NPs were successfully used as binary contrast agents for T1/T2 dual-weighted MRI and synergistic tumor diagnosis in vivo. These findings reveal that the longitudinal and transverse relaxivities of these Gd3+-based NPs can be controlled by tuning the Ln3+ dopants and their concentrations, providing a simple and general method for designing simultaneous T1/T2 enhancing agents.