Chinese Journal of Nature

The brain's starlink: Decoding the human supernetwork

ZHANG Xiaomin, ZHOU Feng, TANG Qiaowei, ZHU Ying

2026, 48(3): 169-174. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.010

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The human brain functions as a highly interconnected “supernetwork” that supports perception, memory, emotion, and consciousness. Using the analogy of modern communication systems, this paper introduces the basic organization of neural networks, explores how their disruption leads to neurological diseases, and reviews recent advances in brain imaging and brain–computer interface technologies. Together, these developments are transforming how we visualize, understand, and interact with the brain.

The Principle of order in the liver: Molecular logic and physiological significance of functional zonation in the hepatic lobule

YE Hongfei, DING Qiurong

2026, 48(3): 175-189. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.003

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Liver zonation refers to the spatial organization principle underlying core hepatic functions, specifically characterized by the gradient distribution of gene expression and metabolic activities in hepatocytes along the portocentral axis. This phenomenon is far from a static anatomical division; rather, it constitutes a dynamically and precisely regulated microenvironmental adaptive system. Research has revealed that the establishment and maintenance of zonation depend on finely tuned gradients of signaling pathways, such as Wnt/β-catenin, and regulatory networks formed by non-parenchymal cells within the microenvironment. This spatial optimization allocates key functions—including glucose and lipid metabolism, detoxification, and biosynthesis—thereby forming the fundamental architectural basis for the liver’s diverse and complex biochemical activities. In recent years, single-cell and spatial multi-omics technologies have unveiled the molecular blueprint of zonation with unprecedented resolution. Significantly, studies have identified zonation disruption as a critical pathological feature in the development and progression of various liver diseases, such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Consequently, indepth analysis of liver zonation not only elucidates hepatic physiology but also provides a novel paradigm for understanding disease mechanisms. Targeting the zonation regulatory network to restore the spatial functional order of hepatocytes has emerged as a promising new strategy for precision therapy. This review aims to systematically elucidate the anatomical and molecular foundations of liver zonation, its metabolic characteristics, and its remodeling in disease states, thereby providing a theoretical framework for the future development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on zonation biology.

Respiratory viruses: a key environmental trigger for type 1 diabetes

LUO Kuansen, LIU Xiaohua, CHAO Chen, XIAO Yang

2026, 48(3): 190-196. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.002

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Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease resulting from the combined effects of genetic and environmental factors. In recent years, respiratory viral infections have been regarded as important environmental triggers for T1D. This article provides a systematic review of the epidemiological associations, potential mechanisms, and prevention and treatment strategies related to respiratory viral infections and the onset of T1D. Multiple large-scale international cohort studies have shown that respiratory viral infections, such as influenza virus, SARS-CoV-2, and human coronavirus, can significantly increase the risk of T1D, particularly ingenetically susceptible children. Mechanistically, viruses can promote disease progression through two pathways: direct infection of beta cells (via ACE2-dependent invasion and necroptosis) and indirect activation of autoimmunity (via molecular mimicry, bystander activation, and interferon-mediated insulin resistance). In addition, factors such as gut-lung axis dysregulation, host genetic background, and timing of exposure can further modulate the risk of T1D. Clinically, T1D associated with respiratory viral infections often presents with acute onset and a high incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis. Targeted prevention and control strategies include vaccination of high-risk populations, early viral surveillance, blood glucose management during infection, and immunomodulatory therapy. Future efforts should strengthen population-based studies to elucidate virus-specific pathogenic mechanisms and establish a T1D prevention and control system based on environmental monitoring.

Pathological mechanisms in the comorbidity of obstructive sleep apnea and metabolic syndrome

LAI Yuxin, LI Bingchan, LIU Feng

2026, 48(3): 197-204. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.004

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Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are highly comorbid conditions, jointly constituting a significant risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. However, their complex bidirectional interactions and the heterogeneity of clinical intervention outcomes cannot be fully explained by a single pathological mechanism. Focusing on the bidirectional relationship between OSA and MetS, this article systematically reviews their key pathological links. This includes obesity as an initiating factor for OSA, and intermittent hypoxia along with sleep structure abnormalities as the core mechanisms by which OSA drives metabolic dysregulation. Moving beyond unidirectional models, the article further explores shared upstream driving mechanisms from the perspectives of aging and systemic inflammation. This review aims to provide a deeper understanding of the integrated pathophysiological network underlying OSA-MetS comorbidity and to offer a novel theoretical framework for exploring comprehensive management strategies targeting their common roots.

Current status of weight-loss metabolic surgery in the treatment of metabolic syndrome

GU Xihan, JIAO Yuwen, ZHOU Gang, ZHANG Shufan, TANG Liming

2026, 48(3): 205-216. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.005

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Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has emerged as a major global public health issue, imposing a substantial health and economic burden on society. Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), as a key intervention for MetS, not only achieves rapid and sustained weight loss but also significantly improves its core metabolic dysregulations. This article summarizes the current application of MBS in the management of MetS, systematically elaborates on the clinical outcomes, advantages, and limitations of commonly performed procedures, with the aim of providing insights for personalized clinical treatment of MetS.

Circadian rhythms and obesity: best time of day?

HUANG Rongfeng, ZHOU Runchao, CAO Yuxin, ZHANG Zhihui LI Mindian

2026, 48(3): 217-227. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.006

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Obesity is a global public health pandemic, closely linked to lifestyle changes. Modern lifestyles are often characterized by extended eating periods and reduced sleep duration, leading to circadian rhythm disruption. Circadian rhythm is pervasive among physiological activities and influences carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The circadian clock generates self-sustaining 24-hour rhythms in cells, consisting of transcriptional–translational feedback loops. This review focuses on the circadian mechanisms underlying obesity. It provides an overview of the circadian clock theory, summarizes the relationship between environmental rhythmic factors, such as eating/fasting cycles, physical activity/rest cycles and sleep/wake cycles, and the pathogenesis of obesity. The brain-body communication framework is used involving the hypothalamus and adipose tissue to rationalize current research advances regarding circadian rhythms and obesity. Following this thread, the paper reviews current research progress on timerestricted eating and timed exercise, which leverages the interactions between intrinsic circadian systems and behavioral factors such as diet and exercise in the prevention and treatment of obesity. In the years of weight management, research and development of personalized interventions is an important direction for treating obesity. Incorporating circadian biology into both research and clinical practice will provide a strong theoretical basis for developing more precise strategies to combat obesity.

A discourse on mathematics: the hidden ultimate simplicity

CUI Yanfen

2026, 48(3): 228-240. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.007

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This article outlines the scientific essence and developmental history of mathematics, revealing its core characteristics of “mastering complexity through simplicity” and “seeking truth through reason”. Originating from the study of quantities and forms, mathematics is essentially an abstract representation of the underlying laws of nature and society. From Pythagoras’ insight that “all is number” to modern digital practices, it demonstrates cognitive power that transcends time and space. The text traces humanity’s exploration of mathematics and details advanced branches derived from calculus, highlighting the wisdom of “simplifying the complex” through classic puzzles and experiments. Since the 20th century, applied branches such as mathematical statistics, computational mathematics, operations research, and information theory have flourished. They permeate every aspect of life—from AI and aerospace to medical R&D and logistics—forming an interdisciplinary synergy of “Mathematics-Science-Engineering”.
Additionally, the outstanding contributions of Chinese mathematicians in fields like geometric analysis, functional analysis, and dynamical systems stand out as significant highlights in the history of mathematical development.

Equipping DNA with a “navigation system”: targeted modification of DNA nanostructure

LIANG Si, TANG Zisheng, LIU Xia

2026, 48(3): 241-246. doi:10.3969/j.issn.0253-9608.2026.03.013

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In the era of precision medicine, the effectiveness of therapy and diagnosis depends not only on the intrinsic function of drugs or probes but also on their ability to reach specific target sites with high accuracy. Achieving precise molecular localization in vivo becomes a central challenge that limits the further development of many biomedical technologies. DNA nanostructures are programmable nanomaterials constructed from DNA. They exhibit structural precision, favorable biocompatibility, and the capacity for spatial organization of functional units. These features provide a robust material foundation for the development of precise delivery systems. This article systematically describes the fundamental concepts of DNA nanostructures and the principles and strategies of targeted modification. It focuses on the mechanisms by which multilevel targeting can be achieved through molecular recognition tags, regulation of physicochemical properties, and intracellular localization strategies. The potential applications of these systems in disease therapy, diagnostic imaging, and cellular manipulation are also discussed. In addition, current challenges related to stability, biosafety, and large-scale production are analyzed. Future perspectives are proposed with emphasis on the integration of DNA nanotechnology with artificial intelligence and dynamic responsive systems.

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