Functional cure of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a major clinical challenge. Current therapies—including nucleos(t)ide analogs, interferon, siRNA, and therapeutic vaccines—often fail to sustain HBsAg clearance or induce durable seroconversion after treatment cessation. However, a breakthrough study led by Professor Zhu’s team at the Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences demonstrates a promising combinatorial strategy. By pairing an HBV-specific siRNA with their proprietary therapeutic vaccine, the researchers achieved striking long-term efficacy in a CHB mouse model. The combined regimen induced 100% sustained HBsAg loss (lasting ~11 months) and an 80% HBs seroconversion rate, with anti-HBs antibodies persisting stably for the same duration. These findings highlight a potent new approach for CHB functional cure, meriting further clinical evaluation.

A research paper by scientists at Westlake University presented a novel 3D cell culturing and noninvasive characterization technique of neural spheroids, holding a potential application in development of brain organoids.

Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks. However, accurately tracking the carbon dynamics of forests, especially in rapidly urbanizing regions, remains a challenge. A recent study published in Forest Ecosystems offers new insights into the carbon effects of continuous forest change in China’s Yangtze River Delta (YRD) from 2000 to 2020, using advanced monitoring techniques.

A research paper by scientists at University of Rome Tor Vergata represented proof of principle of the use of optically-induced dielectrophoresis (ODEP) analysis for the classification of patient-derived endometrial stromal cells, which could be exploited to help clinicians to stratify patients experiencing reproductive failure.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the traditional education system, with its rigid curriculum and prescribed learning paths, is increasingly seen as inadequate for preparing students to embrace the complexities of the modern world. Researchers have identified the tension between prescribed curriculum and student autonomy as the core issue of the educational system. This study analyzes how changes to the prescribed curriculum, pedagogy, and assessments can enhance student autonomy and learning.

Guangzhou, China — A pioneering study published in Science Bulletin introduces an innovative data management framework that integrates AI and blockchain technology to address critical challenges in multicenter randomized controlled trials (RCTs). An international collaboration led by Professor Haotian Lin from Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University and Professor Tien Yin Wong from Tsinghua University, alongside researchers from other leading institutions, has developed a framework, which aims to improve data integrity, objectivity, and operational efficiency in clinical trials.

Cement production, responsible for 7.5% of global CO₂ emissions, faces decarbonization challenges. A novel strategy uses methane to co-produce syngas and clinker via a steel waste-derived iron-based catalyst, mimicking cement's inherent components. This approach slashes emissions by about 80% versus conventional methods and eliminates catalyst separation. Future integration with green power promises further reductions, positioning industrial waste as a potential player in sustainable cement manufacturing.