Publicity Department of the CPC Tiexi District Committee, Shenyang
Recently, the "Fortune and Prosperity Across Mountains and Seas" - Liaoning Gourd Art Exhibition was officially inaugurated at the Industrial Museum of China and will run through September 23. Co-sponsored by the museum and the Liaoning Folk Literature and Art Association, and organized by the Tieling Folk Literature and Art Association, the exhibition leverages the museum's distinctive industrial setting to present Liaoning's achievements in gourd-related intangible cultural heritage (ICH) inheritance, aesthetic education, and craftsmanship innovation.
As a traditional symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture, the gourd embodies the people's hopes for good fortune, health and safety, family harmony, and prosperity. This exhibition features 230 exquisite works crafted with a diverse range of techniques, including pyrography, carving, color painting, filigree inlay, color layering, and embossing. Rooted in the essence of ancient craftsmanship and folk culture, the exhibited works also embrace modern aesthetics and design, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art. Together, they vividly showcase the dynamic vitality of Liaoning's folk crafts, which uphold tradition while embracing innovation.
The exhibition's main highlight is its showcase of Liaoning's achievements in integrating ICH into school education. The exhibition breaks away from the traditional master-only display model, offering an inclusive platform that encourages public engagement and fosters intergenerational skill transmission. The exhibition brings together a wide spectrum of artists, featuring masterpieces by established provincial-level ICH inheritors. The works on display, diverse in style, vividly showcase the tangible results of Liaoning's efforts to make ICH aesthetic education a regular practice and widely accessible.
Many visitors have expressed that experiencing traditional gourd art against the backdrop of an industrial museum offers a harmonious blend of old and new, allowing them to directly appreciate Liaoning's rich and diverse cultural heritage. According to relevant officials from the museum, the venue has been deeply engaged in ICH preservation efforts, building the "Industry + Folklore" cultural festival brand, and hosting regular events such as ICH performances, cultural bazaars, and craft exhibitions, all of which have won wide public acclaim.
This exhibition serves both as a comprehensive showcase of Liaoning's achievements in gourd-related ICH craftsmanship and as a vivid practice of enriching public cultural life while fostering closer integration between culture and tourism. Looking ahead, the museum will continue to launch ICH-themed exhibitions and interactive activities, intensifying efforts to build its signature "Industry + Folklore" brand, so that industrial heritage and traditional culture can come together and flourish, bringing renewed cultural vitality to the new era.
While diabetes is commonly associated with humans, the disease also affects dogs and cats. Its impact on the quality of life of both pets and their owners is often greater than many people realize.
In dogs, diabetes is similar to Type 1 diabetes in humans, in which the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin are destroyed or lose their function, resulting in a severe insulin deficiency. In cats, the disease is more similar to Type 2 diabetes, in which insulin resistance develops or the pancreas produces insufficient insulin, leading to abnormally high blood sugar levels.
Veterinary studies have reported that diabetes is found in approximately one in every 300 dogs and cats receiving treatment, although the rate varies among populations and regions. While the number may seem relatively small, diabetes places a significant burden on both affected animals and their owners. Today, dogs with diabetes require daily insulin injections for the rest of their lives. This is the challenge that a research team from the Faculty of Veterinary Science,Chulalongkorn University,has been working to address over the past decade. Drawing on its expertise in stem cells and regenerative veterinary medicine, the team has pursued new approaches to treating diabetes in companion animals. Most recently, the team succeeded in developing stem cell technology from canine adipose (fat) tissue that may pave the way toward a lasting treatment for diabetes in dogs and cats.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chenphop Sawangmake, DVM, Director, Veterinary Stem Cell and Bioengineering Innovation Center (VSCBIC), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, and Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of BioInk Co., Ltd.
How the “Canine Fat-Derived Beta Cells” Research Began
After gaining extensive research experience in stem cells and bioengineering in the United States, Assoc. Prof. Chenphop Sawangmake, DVM, PhD, established the Veterinary Stem Cell and Bioengineering Innovation Center (VSCBIC) at the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, in 2013. Among the center’s early research priorities were diseases in companion animals that have no cure, particularly canine diabetes, which requires lifelong treatment.
“Why should we settle for managing the disease when advances in stem cell science and biomedical engineering may open the door to a genuine cure?” said Assoc. Prof. Chenphop, recalling the idea that inspired the Canine Fat-Derived Beta Cells research project, which aims to transform the treatment of canine diabetes from lifelong management to a cure.
“We developed a treatment approach by integrating expertise in stem cell technology, tissue engineering, and genetic engineering.”
Veterinary Pharmacology and Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University
Why Canine Adipose Tissue?
Selecting the right source of stem cells was a critical part of the research. The team spent five to six years comparing cells derived from various sources, including bone marrow, oral tissue, and adipose (fat) tissue, before concluding that adipose tissue offered the most practical solution.
Dr. Sarunyu Ontawee Post-doctoral Researcher, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chulalongkorn University
Dr. Saranyou Oontawee, a member of the research team, explained that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from adipose tissue offer several advantages over those obtained from bone marrow or umbilical cord tissue. Adipose tissue is easy to collect, highly safe, and, most importantly, yields far greater numbers of stem cells—up to 500 times more than bone marrow. In addition, the tissue can be collected during routine spay or neuter procedures, making the technology more accessible to pet owners without excessive costs.
“Stem cell therapy is no longer out of reach. A small amount of adipose tissue collected during a routine surgical procedure could become the starting point for a treatment that transforms a dog’s life.”– Dr. Saranyou Oontawee
Formation of IPC organoids from cAD-MSCs
How Can Adipose Tissue Cells Be Turned into Insulin-Producing Cells?
Beta cells are found in the pancreas and play a key role in producing insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. In dogs with diabetes, these cells are destroyed or lose their function. The research team’s goal, therefore, was to create replacement beta cells from stem cells isolated from adipose tissue.
While the concept sounds straightforward, putting it into practice is highly complex. The researchers adopted a “nature-inspired” approach, mimicking the processes that occur during embryonic development, when stem cells gradually differentiate into various organs through a series of developmental stages. In essence, the team sought to “teach” the cells to take on a new role.
The process relies on two main mechanisms. The first is cellular reprogramming, in which genes that control beta-cell development are introduced directly into stem cells. The second involves controlling the cellular environment by adding a sequence of stimulating biomolecules to carry the cells to their desired shape and function. The research team combined the two mechanisms to obtain the highest quality and quantity of cells.
Analysis of pancreatic hormone production in insulin-producing cells (IPCs) using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).
The resulting cells were capable of secreting insulin at levels comparable to those of the natural pancreas. The researchers also detected glucagon secretion, suggesting that the engineered cells possessed the complete cellular characteristics of pancreatic islets (Islets of Langerhans). In addition, the cells demonstrated the ability to lower blood sugar levels in animal models.
From a Lifetime of Treatment to the Hope of a Cure
The concept of transplanting insulin-producing cells to replace lost beta cells in animals is no longer just a distant dream. Evidence from international studies has shown that donor beta-cell transplantation can allow some people with diabetes to remain free from insulin injections for years and lead normal lives.
“If these insulin-producing cells continue to show promising results, our goal is to transplant them to replace the beta cells lost to diabetes in companion animals, restoring the body’s ability to produce insulin naturally.”– Assoc. Prof. Chenphop
He also shared the results of the team’s animal studies. “The findings have been encouraging. Blood sugar levels improved significantly, and the treatment remained within acceptable safety limits. This marks an important step forward, demonstrating that the concept can work in practice and not just in theory.”
Regenerative Medicine and the Future of Disease Treatment in Companion Animals
As regenerative medicine continues to advance and gain wider public attention, the research team faces two challenges simultaneously. The first is developing cells that are effective, safe, and stable after transplantation. The second is building public trust by demonstrating that the research adheres to rigorous scientific standards, ensuring that any treatment brought into practice is both effective and safe.
“Today, exaggerated claims about stem cell therapies are widespread in the marketplace, despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness and safety,” said Assoc. Prof. Chenphop. “One of our priorities is to help the public understand that stem cell therapy is not a miracle cure for every disease. People need to make informed decisions and critically evaluate whether the information they receive is supported by credible evidence.”
Assoc. Prof. Chenphop added that even if cell-based therapy for diabetes eventually becomes a reality, the team would not see it as the end goal but rather the beginning of the next phase. The knowledge and techniques developed through this research could be applied to a wide range of diseases caused by organ degeneration, including disorders of the eye, bone, liver, and kidney, without having to start from scratch.
Moreover, some of this knowledge can be shared between veterinary and human medicine. In certain cases, animal models may provide insights that are difficult to obtain through conventional models used in human medical research, allowing some technologies and approaches to be translated directly between the two fields.
The Team’s Current Research Progress
Eight years after the project began, the research has successfully demonstrated its potential in animal models. The team is now moving full speed ahead into the next phase of development.
“Our team is currently scaling up beta-cell production to the pilot scale, using microfluidics technology to generate millions of beta-cell clusters,” said Dr. Saranyou Oontawee. “In practice, transplantation requires large numbers of beta cells that are robust, functional, and capable of surviving long-term after transplantation,” said Dr. Saranyou.
The team is also pursuing a complementary approach through exosome therapy, which uses substances secreted by stem cells to help repair damaged pancreatic tissue. The results have shown that damaged pancreases can recover following exosome treatment, with outcomes that exceeded the researchers’ expectations.
Assoc. Prof. Chenphop added: “Our next step is to further expand production capacity and begin studies in the target animal population.” The team expects that within the next two to three years, it will be able to begin testing the therapy in dogs with diabetes and make the treatment available not long thereafter.
A New Hope for Companion Animals and Veterinary Medicine in Thailand
From a small laboratory established 13 years ago to a growing research center with a spin-off company and more than six petty patents, VSCBIC has demonstrated that Thai research can create technologies with global relevance.
“Our goal is to serve society by generating knowledge and developing technologies that people can truly rely on,” said Assoc. Prof. Chenphop.
Dr. Saranyou added, “As part of the effort to advance companion animal health technologies in Thailand—particularly Exosome Therapy, an area in which Thailand is currently at the forefront. What gives us the greatest sense of pride is seeing our research translate into meaningful improvements in the lives of pets and their owners.”
In closing, Assoc. Prof. Chenphop noted that the team continues to welcome young scientists and veterinarians who are interested in joining its research efforts or pursuing careers in regenerative medicine. The field is rapidly growing and needs the energy and commitment of the next generation of researchers. For pet owners whose animals suffer from conditions that are difficult to treat, regenerative medicine may offer new possibilities in the not-too-distant future.
For more information on regenerative medicine and animal stem cell technology, visit the research team
Chulalongkorn University has been ranked Thailand’s No. 1 university for the 17th consecutive year (since 2009) in the newly released QS World University Rankings 2026. The university is ranked 221st in the world and places among the world’s Top 100 in two key indicators: Academic Reputation (89th) and Employment Outcomes (64th).
World Premiere 1: The MAHLE Workshop Portal as the centerpiece of a digital workshop ecosystem
World Premiere 2: The “MAHLE Climate Expert” workshop concept strengthens workshops’ visibility and expertise in the eyes of their customers
World Premiere 3: The new generation of ArcticPRO® A/C service units increases productivity and user-friendliness
World Premiere 4: MAHLE Mobile Service brings the workshop directly to the customer
World Premiere 5: The CareMetix® Natural cabin air filter with sheep’s wool improves air quality inside the vehicle
MAHLE Lifecycle and Mobility will present five world premieres at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 under the motto “Your Growth. Our Expertise.” These innovations strengthen the digital ecosystem through which MAHLE will increasingly connect spare parts, diagnostics, innovative workshop equipment, and new business models for independent workshops and distributors. At the heart of this ecosystem is the new MAHLE Workshop Portal. The platform combines technical information, expert knowledge, AI-powered functionalities, and digital services in a single integrated solution. In the future, it will be complemented by the new “MAHLE Climate Expert” workshop concept. This program enables independent workshops to expand their expertise in climate and thermal management, increase their market visibility, and generate sustainable additional revenue through new customer contacts. With the new generation of ArcticPRO®, MAHLE is also introducing a completely redesigned family of A/C service units engineered for efficient, future-ready air conditioning service. Additional world premieres include the new MAHLE Mobile Service, which enables flexible repair and maintenance operations directly at the customer’s location, and the CareMetix® Natural cabin air filter featuring sheep’s wool for sustainable and highly efficient air filtration. Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 will take place from September 8 to 12, 2026, in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. MAHLE Lifecycle and Mobility will be exhibiting in Hall 9, occupying approximately 400 square meters at the leading trade fair for industry, workshops, and the automotive aftermarket.
“Our new workshop ecosystem is designed to facilitate the transformation from today’s traditional repair shops into the digital mobility service centers of tomorrow,” said Philipp Grosse Kleimann, Member of the MAHLE Management Committee and Head of MAHLE Lifecycle and Mobility. “In line with this year’s trade fair motto ‘Your Growth. Our Expertise.’, we empower distributors and workshops with the right tools to increase productivity, unlock new business opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth.
World Premiere 1: MAHLE Workshop Portal connects knowledge, services, and expert support
MAHLE is introducing for the first time a digital platform for workshop professionals that brings together information, training, services, and expert knowledge from across the MAHLE world for technicians, service advisors, and workshop owners. The core element of the Workshop Portal is an integrated ticketing system that enables users to submit inquiries arising from their day-to-day workshop operations directly to MAHLE experts. This allows workshops to receive fast support with diagnostic and repair-related questions. The platform is complemented by technical documentation, webinars, industry updates, and marketing materials. A new AI-powered assistant, MIA (MAHLE Intelligent Assistant), supports users with research tasks and product searches. In addition, a bonus program rewards training activities, portal usage, and product purchases. Thanks to its responsive design, the MAHLE Workshop Portal can be used seamlessly on smartphones, tablets, and desktop devices alike.
World Premiere 2: “MAHLE Climate Expert” Workshop Concept
MAHLE is expanding its service offering for independent workshops with the new “MAHLE Climate Expert” workshop concept. It combines original equipment expertise, advanced workshop equipment, technical know-how, and targeted marketing initiatives into a comprehensive service package. The aim is to position participating workshops as specialists in climate and thermal management. Participating businesses benefit from a professional brand presence, tailored marketing activities, and a dedicated online presence through which end customers can book workshop services directly. In addition, digital campaigns and search engine marketing increase workshop visibility and help generate new customer contacts. Regular training programs further support workshops in expanding their expertise while creating additional service revenue opportunities.
World Premiere 3: New generation of ArcticPRO® A/C service units
At Automechanika 2026, MAHLE is unveiling its new generation of ArcticPRO® A/C service units. The completely redesigned product family has been developed specifically to meet the needs of modern workshops, combining productivity, ease of use, and future readiness on a new platform. With four performance levels, MAHLE offers tailored solutions for different workshop sizes and service requirements.
The new models support the refrigerants R134a, R1234yf, R444A, and R456A and feature fully automated, AI-assisted service processes. Large touchscreens with display sizes of up to 10 inches, intuitive user guidance, and integrated audio and video tutorials make operation easier for technicians and significantly reduce training requirements. In addition, connectivity features and automatic software updates ensure that the units always remain up to date.
World Premiere 4: Going directly to the customer with the MAHLE Mobile Repair Service
The MAHLE Mobile Repair Service brings workshop services directly to the customer. Using specially equipped service vehicles, a wide range of maintenance and repair work can be carried out on-site in the future. These services include oil changes, brake servicing, vehicle inspections, diagnostic work, software updates, starter battery replacement and servicing, minor electrical repairs, air conditioning service, and high-voltage battery diagnostics. With this new concept, MAHLE enables workshops to develop new business models and reach additional customer segments.
World Premiere 5: CareMetix® Natural cabin air filter with sheep’s wool
The new CareMetix® Natural cabin air filter is the latest addition to the CareMetix® portfolio, combining high interior air quality with the responsible use of resources.
For the first time, MAHLE is using sheep’s wool as a component of the filter medium. This reduces the product’s carbon footprint without compromising filtration performance. The filter reliably removes particles and pollutants from the air while also reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The result is clean, low-odor air inside the vehicle cabin.
In addition, CareMetix® Natural helps reduce the use of materials that can contribute to the generation of microplastics. Designed for a long service life and consistently high performance, the filter offers a sustainable solution for both workshops and vehicle owners.
“Our new cabin air filter with sheep’s wool demonstrates how MAHLE uses innovation to improve everyday life for people. The CareMetix® Natural enhances the comfort and well-being of people in the vehicle,” said Philipp Grosse Kleimann.
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