Core Insights - The article discusses the anticipated hot research areas for the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) funding in 2026, emphasizing the importance of understanding these trends for project design [4][5]. Group 1: Core Mechanisms - Key focus areas include immune regulation (macrophage polarization, neutrophil function, T-cell exhaustion), mitochondrial function and homeostasis, novel cell death mechanisms (ferroptosis, pyroptosis), metabolic reprogramming (glycolysis, lactylation), and post-translational modifications of proteins (ubiquitination, SUMOylation) [4]. Group 2: Frontier Interdisciplinary Areas - Emerging fields highlighted are epitranscriptomics (RNA modifications like m6A, m7G), intercellular communication (exosomes), host-microbiome interactions (gut microbiota), and stem cells with regenerative medicine [5]. Group 3: Key Technologies - Important technological advancements include single-cell and spatial multi-omics, organoids and disease models, and AI/machine learning-driven target discovery and data analysis [5]. Group 4: Research Case Studies - The article presents several research cases that exemplify how researchers are engaging with these hot topics, including: - Neutrophils and their role in thrombosis, published in the European Heart Journal [12]. - Immune evasion mechanisms in tumors, published in Cell [13]. - Gut microbiota's role in Crohn's disease, published in Gut [14]. - Glycolysis and its implications in cancer, published in Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy [14]. - Development of organoids for bone repair, published in Advanced Materials [14].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of understanding common clinical symptoms in laboratory mice and rats to ensure reliable research data and efficient experimental progress. It introduces a guide that helps researchers quickly identify potential health issues in these animals, thereby reducing misdiagnosis and experimental delays [1]. Summary by Sections Clinical Symptoms Guide - The guide includes over 40 high-frequency symptoms with diagnostic illustrations for quick identification [1]. - It provides emergency handling procedures, such as wound disinfection and determining whether to euthanize an animal [1]. - The guide helps differentiate between environmental and pathological factors affecting the animals' health [1]. Observation Process - A complete animal observation process should encompass various aspects, including external and internal examination, dynamic and static observation, and individual versus overall assessment [6]. - The guide aids in accurately identifying health issues, from weight fluctuations to behavioral changes, with reference images and detailed descriptions [6]. Multi-Dimensional Analysis - The guide encourages a multi-faceted approach to identify the underlying causes of health issues by considering environmental factors, dietary conditions, and genetic backgrounds [7]. - It provides tailored recommendations for addressing health problems, considering the animals' health status, experimental needs, and environmental conditions [7]. Common Symptoms and Management - The article lists various symptoms, their common causes, and recommended handling measures, such as addressing issues like hair loss, weight changes, and abnormal behaviors [9]. - Specific examples include managing weight loss due to dietary insufficiencies or health conditions, and recognizing signs of distress or illness in the animals [9].