A review of novel research technology to explore the mystery of traditional Chinese medicine: Terahertz.

During the 2022 Annual National Terahertz Biophysics Conference, the hypothesis was proposed that bio frequency electromagnetic fields sensitive points, akin to acupuncture points, exist in the human body. This development has prompted numerous researchers to apply terahertz technology to the field of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In recent years, terahertz technology has achieved notable progress in the field of TCM, particularly concerning the meridian-collateral system. This review systematically presents the advancements in terahertz technology and its implications on TCM theory from a biophysical perspective. Additionally, it summarizes the utilization of terahertz waves in elucidating aspects of TCM, particularly focusing on the scientific connotation of Qi, the theoretical foundation of the meridian-collateral system, and moxibustion in diagnosing and treating diseases. We aimed to explore the innovative applications and distinct advantages of terahertz technology in TCM and its feasibility as a pioneering technological tool for the modernization of TCM.

The Melastoma dodecandrum genome and the evolution of Myrtales.

Melastomataceae has abundant morphological diversity with high economic and ornamental merit in Myrtales. The phylogenetic position of Myrtales is still contested. Here, we report the chromosome-level genome assembly of Melastoma dodecandrum in Melastomataceae. The assembled genome size is 299.81 Mb with a contig N50 value of 3.00 Mb. Genome evolution analysis indicated that M. dodecandrum, Eucalyptus grandis, and Punica granatum were clustered into a clade of Myrtales and formed a sister group with the ancestor of fabids and malvids. We found that M. dodecandrum experienced four whole-genome polyploidization events: the ancient event was shared with most eudicots, one event was shared with Myrtales, and the other two events were unique to M. dodecandrum. Moreover, we identified MADS-box genes and found that the AP1-like genes expanded, and AP3-like genes might have undergone subfunctionalization. The SUAR63-like genes and AG-like genes showed different expression patterns in stamens, which may be associated with heteranthery. In addition, we found that LAZY1-like genes were involved in the negative regulation of stem branching development, which may be related to its creeping features. Our study sheds new light on the evolution of Melastomataceae and Myrtales, which provides a comprehensive genetic resource for future research.

Magnesium-Mediated Carbon-Carbon Bond Formation in Aqueous Media: Barbier-Grignard Allylation and Pinacol Coupling of Aldehydes.

Magnesium-mediated Barbier-Grignard type alkylation of aldehydes with alkyl halides was studied in aqueous media. The reaction of aromatic aldehydes with allyl halides is highly effective with either THF or water as the reaction solvent but poor in a mixture of THF/water. It was found that the magnesium-mediated allylation of aldehydes with allyl bromide and iodide proceeds effectively in aqueous 0.1 N HCl or 0.1 N NH(4)Cl. Aromatic aldehydes reacted chemoselectively in the presence of aliphatic aldehydes. An exclusive selectivity was also observed when both aliphatic and aromatic aldehyde functionalities are present in the same molecule. In the absence of allyl halides, aldehydes and ketones reacted with magnesium in aqueous 0.1 N NH(4)Cl to form the corresponding pinacol coupling products in high yields. The effectiveness of the pinacol reaction was strongly influenced by the steric environment surrounding the carbonyl group. Aliphatic aldehydes and simple alkyl halides appear inert under the reaction conditions for either alkylation or the pinacol coupling reaction.