Regulation Function Research Articles

Growth and differentiation factor 15: An emerging therapeutic target for brain diseases.

Growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), a member of the transforming growth factor-βsuperfamily, is considered a stress response factor and has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its roles in neurological diseases. Although many studies have suggested that GDF15 expression is elevated in patients with neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), glioma, and ischemic stroke, the effects of increased GDF15 expression and the potential underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Notably, many experimental studies have shown the multidimensional beneficial effects of GDF15 on NDDs, and GDF15 overexpression is able to rescue NDD-associated pathological changes and phenotypes. In glioma, GDF15 exerts opposite effects, it is both protumorigenic and antitumorigenic. The causes of these conflicting findings are not comprehensively clear, but inhibiting GDF15 is helpful for suppressing tumor progression. GDF15 is also regarded as a biomarker of poor clinical outcomes in ischemic stroke patients, and targeting GDF15 may help prevent this disease. Thus, we systematically reviewed the synthesis, transcriptional regulation, and biological functions of GDF15 and its related signaling pathways within the brain. Furthermore, we explored the potential of GDF15 as a therapeutic target and assessed its clinical applicability in interventions for brain diseases. By integrating the latest research findings, this study provides new insights into the future treatment of neurological diseases.

Barrier materials integrated with gas regulation function are used to reduce the explosion risk of battery systems

Large-capacity lithium iron phosphate batteries are widely used in energy storage stations and electric vehicles due to their high cost-effectiveness and long lifespan. However, research shows that the gases generated during thermal runaway are mainly combustible, which may lead to fires or even explosions. Nevertheless, within the millimeter-scale confined space of a battery pack, effective solutions are scarce, making it challenging to simultaneously suppress kilowatt-level heat transfer and dilute the accumulated combustible gases. This research has developed a multifunctional fire shield with capabilities of “low-temperature heat conduction, medium-temperature heat absorption, high-temperature thermal insulation, and gas regulation.” The material is composed of hydrogel, aluminum hydroxide, ceramic fiber, and ammonium bicarbonate. In the low-temperature range, it exhibits an excellent thermal conductivity (0.58 W·m−1·K−1), capable of maintaining the battery module’s operating temperature within a reasonable range. In the medium to high-temperature range, its thermal conductivity rapidly decreases (0.04 W·m−1·K−1), and with its high phase change enthalpy (1727 J/g), the material can suppress the thermal propagation of a 100 Ah lithium iron phosphate battery module. This material starts to release CO2 at 90℃. In a confined space, the CO2 mixes uniformly with the gases generated during the thermal runaway process of the battery, reducing the risk of these gases (increasing the lower explosion limit by 44 % and reducing the maximum laminar flame speed by 58 %). Therefore, the multifunctional fire shield demonstrates exceptional heat conduction, heat absorption, thermal insulation, and gas regulation performance. This research provides new insights for the safety design of battery systems.

Linking Adult Olfactory Neurogenesis to Social Reproductive Stimuli: Mechanisms and Functions.

Over the last three decades, adult neurogenesis in mammals has been a central focus of neurobiological research, providing insights into brain plasticity and function. However, interest in this field has recently waned due to challenges in translating findings into regenerative applications and the ongoing debate about the persistence of this phenomenon in the adult human brain. Despite these hurdles, significant progress has been made in understanding how adult neurogenesis plays a critical role in the adaptation of brain circuits to environmental stimuli regulating key brain functions. This review focuses on the role of olfactory neurogenesis in the brain's response to social reproductive cues in rodents, highlighting its influence on animal behaviors critical for survival. We also address open questions and propose future directions to advance our understanding of the relationship between adult neurogenesis and reproductive function regulation.

The Antitrust Regulation Harms Consumers

This article examines the effects of antitrust regulation. It is always assumed that this regulation has the purpose and function of protecting the interests of consumers. The other function of regulation is to protect competition, and it is assumed that this also indirectly protects consumer interests, because the dogma ‚the more competition the better‘ is accepted without reservation. We will demonstrate that antitrust regulation can harm consumer interests and will consistently prove the following theses in general: Antitrust regulation leads to a new, forced market equilibrium from which no participant has an interest in deviating. Regulation results in an equilibrium that is less profitable for consumers but more profitable for players that are not subject to antitrust regulation. In maximising their profit, players will offer quantities to the market such that the price on the market will increase and the total quantity offered will decrease. The efficiency of production decreases as a result of regulation. Although anti-monopoly regulation leads to a redistribution of market shares and profits, it generally leads to an increase in the equilibrium price for consumers and thus harms their interests.

Effects and Impact of Selenium on Human Health, A Review.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that is crucial for human health. As a key component of various enzymes and proteins, selenium primarily exerts its biological functions in the form of selenoproteins within the body. Currently, over 30 types of selenoproteins have been identified, with more than 20 of them containing selenocysteine residues. Among these, glutathione peroxidases (GPXs), thioredoxin reductases (TrxRs), and iodothyronine deiodinases (DIOs) have been widely studied. Selenium boasts numerous biological functions, including antioxidant properties, immune system enhancement, thyroid function regulation, anti-cancer effects, cardiovascular protection, reproductive capability improvement, and anti-inflammatory activity. Despite its critical importance to human health, the range between selenium's nutritional and toxic doses is very narrow. Insufficient daily selenium intake can lead to selenium deficiency, while excessive intake carries the risk of selenium toxicity. Therefore, selenium intake must be controlled within a relatively precise range. This article reviews the distribution and intake of selenium, as well as its absorption and metabolism mechanisms in the human body. It also explores the multiple biological functions and mechanisms of selenium in maintaining human health. The aim is to provide new insights and evidence for further elucidating the role of selenium and selenoproteins in health maintenance, as well as for future nutritional guidelines and public health policies.

Establishment of a CRISPR-Based Lentiviral Activation Library for Transcription Factor Screening in Porcine Cells.

Transcription factors play important roles in the growth and development of various tissues in pigs, such as muscle, fat, and bone. A transcription-factor-scale activation library based on the clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated endonuclease Cas9 (Cas9) system could facilitate the discovery and functional characterization of the transcription genes involved in a specific gene network. Here, we have designed and constructed a CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) sgRNA library, containing 5056 sgRNAs targeting the promoter region of 1264 transcription factors in pigs. The sgRNA library, including sgRNA with MS2 loops, is a single-vector system and is packaged with lentivirus for cell screening. Porcine PK15 cells expressing the porcine OCT4 promoter driving EGFP, dCas9 fused with VP64, and MS2-binding protein-p65-HSF1 were constructed, and then, the sgRNA activation library was used to screen the transcription factors regulating OCT4 expression. After the lentiviral transduction and deep sequencing of the CRISPR sgRNAs library, the highest ranking candidate genes were identified, including 31 transcription factors activating OCT4 gene expression and 5 transcription factors inhibiting OCT4 gene expression. The function and gene regulation of the candidate genes were further confirmed by the CRISPR activation system in PK15 cells. The CRISPR activation library targeting pig transcription factors provides a promising platform for the systematic discovery and study of genes that determine cell fate.

Role of Micronutrients in Preventing Chronic Diseases: A Review

Micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, are essential nutrients required in small quantities but play a critical role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. These nutrients are integral to various physiological processes, such as immune function, antioxidant defense, enzyme activity, and gene regulation. Deficiencies in key micronutrients, such as Vitamin D, iron, zinc, and folate, have been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Recent research highlights the synergistic effects of micronutrients, where combined nutrient intake enhances bioavailability and effectiveness, emphasizing the need for diverse dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet. Advances in nutrigenomics and personalized nutrition have shown promise in tailoring dietary interventions based on individual genetic profiles, optimizing the preventive impact of micronutrients. The development of functional foods and biofortification of crops presents sustainable solutions to combat micronutrient deficiencies in resource-limited populations. Emerging trends in supplementation, such as high-dose Vitamin C in cancer therapy and magnesium in managing metabolic syndrome, indicate potential therapeutic roles for micronutrients beyond basic nutrition. However, challenges remain, particularly in assessing nutrient bioavailability and addressing confounding factors in epidemiological studies. Ethical considerations in clinical trials and the limitations of current research methodologies call for more comprehensive, long-term studies to better understand the complex interactions between micronutrients and chronic disease prevention. Sustainable agricultural practices and policies focused on enhancing the micronutrient content of foods are important for addressing global nutrition challenges. As research progresses, leveraging new technologies for more accurate nutrient assessment and targeted interventions will be essential in reducing the global burden of chronic diseases. By integrating scientific advancements with public health strategies, there is potential to improve population health outcomes through optimized micronutrient intake. This comprehensive approach highlights the importance of focusing on both individual dietary interventions and broader food system changes to effectively harness the benefits of micronutrients in chronic disease prevention and management.

Case report: A pregnant woman with recurrent craniopharyngioma: surgical decision-making and doctor-patient bond

Craniopharyngioma is a rare, benign tumor that originates from the pituitary stalk and extends along the pituitary-hypothalamic axis. It can have serious effects due to its location, affecting hormone regulation, vision, and other neurological functions. It is particularly rare and challenging to manage it during pregnancy due to the potential impacts on both maternal and fetal health, requiring careful, individualized treatment. We reported a 26-year-old pregnant woman at 27 weeks with recurrent craniopharyngioma who presented with worsening consciousness and hydrocephalus. Despite recommendations to terminate the pregnancy for tumor resection, she chose to continue. We performed an endoscopic endonasal tumor resection with pituitary transposition to preserve pituitary function, and at 32 weeks, she delivered a healthy baby via cesarean section. We provided a detailed account of the perioperative complications and their management, addressing endocrine, temperature, and fluid regulation challenges. Throughout the process, the medical team maintained open communication with the patient and her family, respecting their desire to continue the pregnancy and exemplifying patient-centered, compassionate care.

Activation of the Sympathoadrenal System under the Influence of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Mimetic in Rats

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is the main incretin that ensures insulin secretion and normalization of postprandial glycemia. GLP-1 mimetics are used for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Besides the insulinotropic effect, GLP-1 and its mimetics have been shown to affect on the functions of the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, the central mechanisms of appetite and metabolism regulation, the ion-regulatory and osmoregulatory renal functions, and a paradoxical hyperglycemic effect of incretin mimetics was also discovered. In current work the mechanisms by which the sympathoadrenal system is involved in the development of hyperglycemic and natriuretic effects of the GLP-1 mimetic exenatide in rats were studied. Experiments with healthy rats revealed that GLP-1 and its mimetic exenatide augmented the renal sodium excretion. Exenatide at doses of 0.15-5 nmol/kg, but not GLP-1 (1.5 nmol/kg), showed a hyperglycemic effect (blood glucose increased to 7.2–9.1 mM during the first hour). It has been shown that the rise of blood glucose level in rats administrated with incretin mimetic was associated with increase in renal excretion of catecholamine metabolites, was delayed by preliminary injection of a ganglionic blocker (pentamine 30 mg/kg) and was considerably leveled by non-selective β- and selective β2-adrenergic blockers (propranolol 5 mg/kg, ICI-118551 1 mg/kg). A significant modulation of natriuresis was revealed in response to the administration of exenatide during blockade of various adrenergic receptors subtypes. α1- and α2-blockers appreciably reduced (by 80%), and β1- and β2-blockers increased (by 150%) exenatide-stimulated renal sodium excretion. Thus, the data obtained indicate on the exenatide-induced activation of the sympathoadrenal system, which modulates the direction and severity of the incretin mimetic effects on blood glucose level and renal sodium excretion in healthy animals. The potential action on the sympathoadrenal system is important to consider when assessing the risk of adverse side effects during incretin mimetic therapy.

Application of high-quality targeted temperature management guided by multimodal brain monitoring in brain protection of patients with cardiac arrest: A case series.

Cardiac arrest (CA) is an acute emergency with high mortality and is closely associated with the risk of brain damage or systemic ischemia-reperfusion injury, post-traumatic stress symptoms. Targeted temperature management in the intensive care unit can improve the neurological outcomes of patients who are comatose after resuscitation from CA. However, there is often a lack of specific evaluation methods for optimal target temperature settings. From November 2021 to October 2022, 9 CA patients received prompt cardiopulmonary resuscitation and return of spontaneous circulation after approximately 10 to 30 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in Xiangya Hospital, Central South University. We retrospectively reviewed 9 CA patients' medical data, including demographic characteristics, hemodynamic change, clinically relevant score, imageological examination, transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, electroencephalogram (EEG), somatosensory-evoked potential, and laboratory data. According to the result of each patient's transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, somatosensory-evoked potential, and EEG to formulate an individualized target temperature. Contrary to the internationally recommended target of hypothermia, we found that not all patients require hypothermia therapy to maintain normal cerebrovascular autonomic regulation function. And neuron-specific enolase and S100β in patients showed a downward trend after hypothermia therapy. Compared with before hypothermia treatment, clinically relevant scores were reduced in patients with good prognosis. Intracranial congestion or ischemia was improved and intracranial pressure was reduced in all patients during hypothermia treatment. For patients with good EEG response, the ratio of gray matter in the brain increased and the neurological prognosis was significantly improved. Finally, after 6 months of follow-up, we found 3 patients died and 1 patient had a long-term vegetative state, the other patients had a good prognosis. Individualized targeted temperature management under the guidance of multimodal brain monitoring plays an important role in brain protection of patients with CA.

Increased GDF-15 in chronic male patients with schizophrenia: correlation with body mass index and cognitive impairment

Growth Differentiation Factor-15 (GDF-15) is a pleiotropic cytokine that plays a significant role in metabolism and inflammation. Elevated serum levels of GDF-15 have been associated with mood disorders. We propose that GDF-15 may potentially influence cognitive impairment and metabolism in male patients with chronic schizophrenia (CS), although there is limited research on this topic. This study compared serum GDF-15 levels in 72 male patients with CS and 85 healthy controls (HC). The severity of psychotic symptoms was assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), while cognitive performance was evaluated with the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). The male CS patients performed worse than the healthy controls in both the total score and all subscales of the RBANS. Serum GDF-15 concentrations were significantly higher in the male CS patients compared to the healthy controls. Furthermore, the log-transformed serum GDF-15 concentrations in male CS patients were positively correlated with BMI and negatively correlated with Delayed Memory scores, Immediate Memory, and the total RBANS score. This preliminary study suggests that elevated serum GDF-15 levels in male patients with chronic schizophrenia may play a role in cognitive function and BMI regulation.

Exploring the Relationship between Dietary Patterns and Mental Health

Dietary patterns play a crucial role in shaping mental health, as they influence the availability of essential nutrients that support brain function and emotional regulation. The high intake of antioxidants and healthy fats supports brain health, reducing the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. For example, in patients with depression, markers of systemic inflammation are often significantly greater than in controls, which is indicative of immune system dysregulation. The potential importance of the relationship between dietary patterns or quality and mental health early in the life span. Prospective and intervention studies are now required to improve the level of evidence. Given that the average age of onset for anxiety and mood disorders is 6 years and 13 years, respectively, the potential for early intervention using strategies targeted at improving dietary intake at a population level may be of substantial public health benefit. However, this would require policy action to improve the global food environment. Diets high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats are linked to an increased risk of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Prioritizing a balanced, nutritious diet can therefore play a crucial role in preventing mental health issues and enhancing overall well-being.

Assessing hepatotoxicity induced by co-exposure to chlorpyrifos and deltamethrin in hook snout carp (Opsariichthys bidens Günther): A comprehensive analysis biochemical and molecular response analysis.

Chlorpyrifos (CLP) and deltamethrin (DTM) are among the most widely utilized organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides globally. Their simultaneous presence in aquatic environments poses significant threats to fish health and challenges the sustainability of aquaculture practices. Despite their prevalence, the combined toxic effects of CLP and DTM on hook snout carp (Opsariichthys bidens Günther) remain insufficiently understood. In this study, O. bidens were exposed to waterborne treatments of CLP, DTM, or their combination for 30 days, and the biochemical and molecular responses of the liver tissue were systematically assessed. Acute toxicity tests revealed that the combined exposure to CLP and DTM resulted in synergistic toxicity. Significant alterations in the activities of key enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), caspase-3 (CASP-3), and caspase-9 (CASP-9), relative to the control group, demonstrated that co-exposure induced oxidative stress in O. bidens. Additionally, the elevated transcriptional levels of immune-related genes such as cxcl-c1c, il-8, and il-1 suggested a pronounced inflammatory response triggered by the pesticide mixture. Conversely, the significantly reduced expression of p53 and esr indicated that combined exposure disrupted apoptotic regulation and endocrine system function in the fish. In summary, these findings demonstrated that co-exposure to CLP and DTM induced liver damage in O. bidens by impairing antioxidant enzyme activity, disrupting apoptosis regulation, and altering the transcriptional profiles of genes involved in immune and endocrine pathways. These results provided new insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms of pesticide-induced hepatotoxicity in fish and offered valuable information for evaluating the ecological risks associated with pesticide mixtures in aquatic environments.

The Coordination of Water Resources and Economic Development in a Water-Scarce Area: An Ecosystem Service Perspective

In water-scarce areas, there is a complex interrelationship between water resources and economic development. This paper studies the relationship between water resources and economic development from an ecosystem services perspective. This paper selected the value of river ecosystem service functions and the comprehensive index of economic development in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) from 2007 to 2018 as the research object, tested the synergy of ecosystem service functions in the basin, and introduced a coupling coordination model to evaluate the synergy of developmental factors. The research results showed that (1) the overall river ecosystem service value in YRB was on the rise, and its distribution was characterized by a high value in the lower reaches and a gradual decrease from the middle reaches to the upper reaches; (2) the synergy of river ecosystem service functions in YRB was mainly reflected in the supply and regulation functions, and the synergy of cultural functions should be improved; (3) the overall coupling and coordination degree showed an upward trend. However, judging from the characteristics of coupled and coordinated degrees, backward ecological development is a long-term problem. This article will help to put forward countermeasures and suggestions for the coordinated development of the river ecosystem service value and regional economy in YRB.

The effects of costly telomere maintenance on lifespan - reproductive tradeoffs in sand lizards.

Telomeres are DNA-protein structures that primarily protect chromosomes and serve multiple functions of gene regulation. When cells divide, telomeres shorten and their main repair system in ectotherms - telomerase - replaces lost nucleotide complexes ((T2AG3)n in vertebrates). It remains a challenge to experimentally investigate resource requirements for telomere maintenance and its effects on lifespan-reproductive tradeoffs in the wild. In sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), we show that higher female investments into reproduction results in corresponding shortening of telomeres and that males have less frequent and less profound telomere shortening than females; a contributing factor to this may be males' higher telomerase levels. To manipulate resource access for telomere maintenance, we exploit a pseudo-experimental opportunity to analyze 'onboard' resources long-term using lizards that drop their tails with fat and nutrient deposits when attacked by predators. Females with less resources due to regrown tails less often and less profoundly elongate telomeres. Adult lizards with the most TL elongation live the longest, females with the highest lifetime reproductive success shorten telomeres the most, whereas males with the most telomere elongation have the highest lifetime reproductive success. This suggests ongoing evolution of resource-constrained telomere maintenance.

Impact of Copper Carbonate Nanoparticles on Hematological, Liver, and Kidney Function, Lipid Profile, and Hormonal Regulation in Albino Mice: A Combined Experimental and Computational Analysis

Impact of Copper Carbonate Nanoparticles on Hematological, Liver, and Kidney Function, Lipid Profile, and Hormonal Regulation in Albino Mice: A Combined Experimental and Computational Analysis

Liquid–liquid phase separation in neurodegenerative diseases: An updated understanding

Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), once understood merely as a physicochemical phenomenon, has emerged over the past decade as a critical player in life processes. LLPS provides a novel framework for understanding the structure, function, and spatiotemporal regulation of intracellular biomolecules. Through LLPS, biomolecules within cells can spontaneously assemble into membraneless compartments, which allow precise regulation of biochemical reactions and influence critical cellular processes such as signal transduction and gene expression. Despite its recognized significance in basic biological research, the role of LLPS in human disease is still an area worthy of continued exploration. Currently, the most studied disorders in relation to LLPS are neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. In neurodegenerative diseases, LLPS is closely linked to protein misfolding and aggregation, processes that can lead to the formation of toxic assemblies, ultimately causing neuronal damage and death. In cancer, aberrant LLPS may contribute to the dysregulation of signaling pathways, promoting uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis. This review highlights recent advances regarding the role of LLPS in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, discussing its function in these pathological conditions and proposing directions for future research. As research progresses, the potential role of LLPS in other human diseases will likely be uncovered, offering new avenues for diagnosis and therapy. Therefore, further investigation into the mechanisms of LLPS and its involvement in disease pathology will be crucial for advancing our understanding of human health and disease.

Isometric Exercise for Blood Pressure and Endothelial Function in Metabolic Syndrome: A Review

Context: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by a cluster of metabolic disorders, including hypertension, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, which collectively heighten the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The global prevalence of MetS is steadily increasing, paralleling the rise in obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Pharmacological treatments for MetS often face challenges such as inadequate blood pressure (BP) control and limited improvements in cardiovascular outcomes. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on non-pharmacological interventions, particularly exercise. Among various exercise modalities, isometric resistance training (IRT), which involves static muscle contractions without joint movement, has emerged as a promising strategy for effectively lowering BP and enhancing endothelial function, both of which are critical for cardiovascular health. Evidence Acquisition: This comprehensive literature review synthesizes existing research on the effects of isometric exercise on BP regulation and endothelial function in individuals diagnosed with MetS. The review examines studies sourced from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and observational studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Key discussion areas include the underlying physiological mechanisms of IRT, comparisons with other exercise modalities, clinical implications, and recommendations for future research. Articles were selected based on qualitative and descriptive reviews. Results: Evidence indicates that isometric resistance training effectively reduces both systolic and diastolic BP, achieving results comparable to other exercise forms like aerobic and dynamic resistance training. Furthermore, IRT has significantly improved endothelial function, particularly among populations with MetS. These physiological benefits are attributed to mechanisms such as enhanced nitric oxide bioavailability, reduced oxidative stress, and improved autonomic regulation. Conclusions: The review supports the integration of isometric exercise into hypertension management protocols, especially for individuals with MetS. Isometric resistance training offers a viable non-pharmacological alternative or adjunct to traditional treatments, with the added advantages of accessibility and adaptability for diverse populations. However, further research is necessary to optimize exercise protocols, determine long-term outcomes, and fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular benefits of IRT.

Impacts of dietary fat on multi tissue gene expression in the desert-adapted cactus mouse.

Understanding the relationship between dietary fat and physiological responses is crucial in species adapted to arid environments where water scarcity is common. In this study, we present a comprehensive exploration of gene expression across five tissues (kidney, liver, lung, gastrointestinal tract and hypothalamus) and 17 phenotypic measurements, investigating the effects of dietary fat in the desert-adapted cactus mouse (Peromyscus eremicus). We show impacts on immune function, circadian gene regulation and mitochondrial function for mice fed a lower-fat diet compared with mice fed a higher-fat diet. In arid environments with severe water scarcity, even subtle changes in organismal health and water balance can affect physical performance, potentially impacting survival and reproductive success. This study sheds light on the complex interplay between diet, physiological processes and environmental adaptation, providing valuable insights into the multifaceted impacts of dietary choices on organismal well-being and adaptation strategies in arid habitats.

Zwitterionic Polymer Binder Networks with Structural Locking and Ionic Regulation Functions for High Performance Silicon Anodes.

The silicon anode suffers from significant volume expansion, low electrical conductivity, and poor long-term cycling performance, which collectively limit its potential to replace graphite as the anode material for lithium-ion batteries. In this article, a PAA-p(HEA-SBMA) binder was prepared by an in situ thermal cross-linking method, which combines strong mechanical properties and excellent reaction kinetics. The synergy of covalent bonding, dynamic hydrogen bonding, and ionic interactions in the binder structure provides excellent mechanical strength, which effectively dissipates stresses and "locks" the entire structure. In addition, the zwitterionic monomers in the binder structure improve the transport of lithium-ions and promote lithium salt dissociation, which helps to establish a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Thanks to the structural locking mechanism and dynamic ionic regulation function, the PAA-p(HEA-SBMA) binder exhibited a long cycling performance. Even after 1000 cycles at 0.5 C, it still has a discharge capacity of 981.63 mAh g-1. The multifunctional binder designs in this work provide insights into the advancement of high energy density lithium-ion batteries.