Rong Zhang  Dr. Associate Professor

Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University

38 Xue Yuan Road, Beijing 100191, China  

Contact Information

Tel: +8610 8280 1152

E-mail: zhangrong@bjmu.edu.cn

Experience

1996 – 2001 2001 - 2006 2006 – now

University Education and Academic Degrees Pediatrics. B.S., Shanxi Medical University, China Neurobiology. Ph.D State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, China. Professional Experience Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, China

Current Academic Positions

March 2019–Present: Executive Vice President, Beijing Neuroscience Society

December 2016–Present: Co-founder and Executive Deputy Director, Autism Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center

June 2017–Present: Member, 9th and 10th Committee, Beijing Association for Science and Technology

February 2024–Present: Standing Committee Member, Medical Device Technology Innovation Committee, China Technology Market Association

August 2022–Present: Standing Committee Member, Special Committee on Child Brain Science and Brain Health Promotion, China Maternal and Child Health Association

August 2023–Present: Co-Chair, Special Committee on Child Neurodevelopment and Related Disorders, Beijing Neuroscience Society

May 2022–Present: Member, Lecturer Group on Scientist Spirit, China Association for Science and Technology

June 2023–Present: Leading Talent, Suzhou Industrial Park

June 2023-Present: Principal Investigator, National Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion

Review Expert: National Natural Science Foundation of China; Ministry of Science and Technology; Academic Degrees and Graduate Education Development Center, Ministry of Education

Special Review Expert for Innovative Medical Devices, National Medical Products Administration Approval Center; Review Expert for Leading Talent Program, Suzhou Industrial Park

Reviewing Editor of Frontiers in Neuroscience; Editorial Board Member of Journal of Laboratory Animal Science

Discipline: Medical Neurobiology; Basic Integrative Medicine

Research Focus

- Pathogenesis and therapeutic mechanisms of autism spectrum disorder

- Translational medicine for acupuncture and product development

Exploring high-risk factors and potential mother- infant interactions from biological and socio-environmental perspectives in autism pathogenesis; proposing novel classification methods for social interaction behaviors in autistic children, developing assessment scales and MRI data analysis techniques; investigating acupuncture-related therapeutic mechanisms in autism through animal models and human studies, conducting applied and applied basic research in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment; Validate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture-related techniques for conditions including infertility and autism through multicenter, randomized controlled double-blind trials; publish expert consensus statements and develop industrialized products.

Principal Investigator on 18 projects including National Natural Science Foundation of China, Industry Special Project of the Ministry of Health of China, National Key R&D Project, Beijing Municipal Key R&D Project, and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Basic Research Special Project. Published 94 papers (including 77 SCI papers, 41 on autism filed, 32 as first or corresponding author, and 26 related to autism field). As corresponding author, published 7 English reviews papers and commentaries on autism, 8 Chinese papers, and 20 reviews papers. Total impact factor: 454.8; total citations: 2,027; H-index: 23. Thirteen U.S. invention patents and Chinese utility model patents were authorized, along with one copyright registration. Five technology transfers were completed, five medical devices were launched, and one assessment system was developed. Fifteen monographs and textbooks were edited or co-authored, including five popular science publications. The edited volume Autism Spectrum Disorders: Medical Frontiers and Research Advances stands as China's first professional work interpreting autism from neuroscience and medical perspectives. Research achievements received the First Prize in Natural Sciences from the National Women and Children's Health Science and Technology Awards, the Second Prize in Science and Technology from the Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion Association, and the Second Prize in Science and Technology Progress from Zhejiang Province. Hosted the Peking University Health Science Center International Autism Forum for nine consecutive years, inviting 66 renowned domestic experts and 48 distinguished international scholars for academic presentations and exchanges, reaching 680,000 attendees. Recognized by the Beijing Association for Science and Technology as one of the “Top Ten Influential Forums” in 2020 and one of the “Top Ten Science Communication Brand Events” in 2022.

Graduate Student Supervision

As co-advisor (under Professor Han Jisheng as primary advisor), supervised 5 doctoral graduates and 4 master's graduates. As primary advisor, supervised 7 master's graduates, 1 postdoctoral fellow who completed their postdoctoral training, and 5 jointly trained master's graduates. All graduates obtained their degrees within the same year and proceeded to further studies or employment. Currently supervising 1 jointly trained doctoral candidate and 2 master's candidates.

INVITED PEER-REVIEWER FOR JOURNALS

Autism Research; Molecular Autism; Journal of autism and developmental disorders; Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience; Neuroscience Bull; Plos One; Scientific Report; Psychoneuroendocrinology; Translational Psychiatry; Current Neuropharmacology; Journal of Clinical Anesthesia; EbioMedicine; Advanced Science; Molecular Psychiatry；Nature Communications;

Peer reviewer for conference proceedings including the International Meeting for Autism Research (IMFAR) and the Annual Conference of Autism-Europe.

HONORS, ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

2010.03 Outstanding teachers of Peking University Health Science Center

2012.02 First prize, The National Natural Sciences Award of Ministry of Education

2017.10 First prize, National Science and Technology Award for Maternal and Child Health

2019.01 Second prize, Science and Technology Award of Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion Society

2019.09 Outstanding teachers of Peking University

2020.05 Second prize, Zhejiang Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award

2020.11 Top Ten Influential Academic Conferences of Beijing Science Association

2021.01 First prize, "Future Star" Biomedical Innovation Transformation Project Competition

2023.06 Third Global Digital Economy Conference – Typical Case of the Construction Achievements in the Field of Traditional Chinese Medicine Digital Health

2023.08 Top 10 Innovative Achievements in Neuropsychiatry in Beijing in 2022 Selected Projects

2014.06-   Secretary-General, Routine Vice President of Beijing Society of Neuroscience (BJSN)

2016.12-   Co-founder of Autism Research Center, PKUHSC

2022.07-   Member of the 10th Committee of the Beijing Association for Science and Technology

FUNDINGS

2009.01-2011.12 “Electroacupuncture promotes functional recovery of dopaminergic neurons in midbrain of morphine addicted rats and its mechanism”  National Natural Science Foundation of China  (30801491) ￥200,000

2013.06-2017.06 “Study on the application of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation technique in reproductive medicine”  the Ministry of health industry fund (201302013-01)  ￥5,850,000

2013.06-2016.06 “Research on techniques and criteria for diagnosis and prevention of autism in children”  the Ministry of health industry fund (  201302002-11  )  ￥890,000

2016.07-2020.12 “Research and development of implantable spinal cord stimulator-sub-topic research on new models of spinal cord stimulation”  National Key R&D Program (2016YFC0105501)  ￥750,000

2016.10-2018.12 “Neuropeptide pathway analysis of SHANK-related autism spectrum disorder”  The UULM-PUHSC Joint Center for Neuroscience fund (BMU20160563)  ￥730,000

2018.11- “Establishment of Shank 3 knockout rats and mouse animal models for autism: a biometric and behavioral comparison study”  Beijing Key R&D Program (Z181100001018011)  ￥100,000

2018.10-2022.09 “Construction of clinical cohort research and integrated platform for neuropsychiatric diseases”  Beijing Municipal Science & Technology Commission (Z181100001518005)  ￥250,000

2019.07-2024.06 “Research project on the etiology and treatment of autism”  Peking University Education Foundation (48014Y0144)  ￥1,000,000

2020.12-2022.12 “SKG product evaluation and upgrade suggestions”  Technology Transfer (71011Y0051)  ￥285,000

2020.12-2027.12 “A device for treating asthenospermia”  Technology Transfer (71011Y0045)  ￥500,000

2022.1-2023.12“Development of biomarkers and personalized treatment products for early diagnosis of childhood autism”), China University IUR Innovation Foundation (Dezhou) (2021DZ021) ￥100,000

2019.9-2024.8 “Basic and Applied Research on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Autism” Key Realm R&D Program of Guangdong Province (2019B030335001) ￥500,000

2024.1-2028.12“Research on the mechanism of autism caused by abnormal brain development” National Natural Science Foundation of China Major Special Project (32394030) ￥500,000

2023.12-2026.11 “The mechanism of action of the sex hormone oxytocin system in autism spectrum disorder and early comprehensive screening techniques” Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Basic Research Cooperation Special Project (J230013) ￥600,000

2024.03- 2027.12 “Research on Rehabilitation Intervention Standards and Demonstration Applications for Children with Autism” China Disabled Persons' Federation Special Project (CDPF2023KF00001) ￥200,000

2022.7- 2026.7 “Clinical Epidemiological Study of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder”  Beijing Research-Oriented Ward Construction ￥6250,000

2024.4.30- 2025.12.1 “Research on the Efficacy and Molecular Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Biologics in Autism Model Rats” (Beijing Darwin Cell Biotechnology Co., Ltd)￥2750,000

PUBLICATIONS (^(*): CORRESPONDING AUTHOR  (#): FIRST AUTHOR)

[1].Ke-hao Liu, Qi Huang, Ming-cong Yang, Kamoran Tuerhong, Xue-hui Hu, Yue Zu, Ying Xie, Qian-yu Zhang, Ping He, Nan-nan Huang, Rong Zhang(*), Yuzhou Li(*)，Sheng Yang(*). Sleep deprivation aggravates periodontitis through trigeminal-periodontal neuroimmune pathway mediated by the AChE-ACh-α7nAChR axis, Advanced Science, 2025 Aug 14:e00945. doi: 10.1002/advs.202500945. Q1. (IF2024=""14.1)

[2]. Qin Li, Wei-hua Zhao, Rong Zhang, Keith M Kendrick(*), Language subtypes in young autistic children and the influence of parental education, educational environment and diet. Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 2025 Jun 17. doi: 10.1007/s10803-025-06911-y. Q1. (IF2023=""3.1)

[3]. Jun-zhao Li, Ru-bing Zhou, Jin-peng Wang, Xiao-chen Zhang, Yong-feng Li, Chuan-yu Edward Li, Bin He, Chen-yang Li, Chang-ying Li, Shuai Long, Kong-jie Lu, Zhao-di Liu, Rong Zhang, Chen Zhang, Yong Zhang(*) Dynamic redistribution of AMPA receptors towards memory-related neuronal ensemble in mice barrel cortex during sensory learning. Neuron 2025 Jul 2:S0896-6273(25)00433-7. doi: 10.1016/j.neuron.2025.06.002. Q1. (IF2023=""14.7)

[4]. Qin Wu(*), Wenlu Wang，Qianru Liu, Rong Zhang, Yun Suen Pai, Mark Billinghurst, Suranga Nanayakkara，Augmented tabletop interaction as an assistive tool: Tidd’s role in daily life skills training for autistic children. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies (2025): 103517. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2025.103517. Q1. (IF2023=""5.3)

[5].Wen Lv, Yuan Li, Ai-yu Yao, Qing-quan Tan, Rong Zhang, Jian-ping Zhao, Yong-hui Jiang, Kun Guo, and Rui Tian，Yong-qing. Zhang(*),Oxytocin improves maternal licking behavior deficits in autism-associated Shank3 mutant dogs, Transl Psychiatry. 2025 Mar 6;15(1):76. doi: 10.1038/s41398-025-03296-5.Q1. (IF2023=""5.8)

[6].Dan Qiao, Chen-yu Mu, Huan Chen, Di Wen, Zhao Wang, Bo-han Zhang, Fang-zhen Guo, Chang Wang, Rong Zhang, Chong-ying Wang , Hui-xian Cui, Sha Li(*). Implications of prenatal exposure to hyperandrogen for hippocampal neurodevelopment and autism-like behavior in offspring. Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology & Biological Psychiat，2025 Jan 10:136:111219. doi: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111219. Epub 2024 Dec 16. Q1. (IF2023=""5.3)

[7].Ya-nan Zhao, Hui-yun Fan, Ya-nan Luo, Rong Zhang, Xiao-ying Zheng(*), Gender Inequalities in Employment of Parents Caring for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in China: Cross Sectional Study. JMIR Pediatric Parenting inpress (ESCI). 2024 Dec 17:7:e59696. doi: 10.2196/59696.

[8].Ya-nan Zhao, Huiyun Fan，Rong Zhang(*), Xiao-ying Zheng(*), Factors associated with self-rated mental health in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders,  Journal of Zhejiang University-SCIENCE B. 2024 Nov 15;25(11):1020-1030. doi: 10.1631/jzus.B2300874.. Q1. (IF2023=""5.1)

[9]. Wei-hua Zhao, Jiao Le, Qi Liu, Si-yu Zhu, Chun-mei Lan, Qian-qian Zhang, Ying-ying Zhang, Qin Li, Juan Kou, Wen-xu Yang, Rong Zhang, Benjamin Becker, Lan Zhang, Keith M Kendrick A(*),  Clustering approach identifies an Autism Spectrum Disorder subtype more responsive to chronic oxytocin treatment, Transl Psychiatry. 2024 Jul 29;14(1):312. doi: 10.1038/s41398-024-03025-4. Q1. (IF2023=""5.8)

[10].Ya-nan Zhao, Rong Zhang, Xiao-ying Zheng(*), Underweight, overweight, obesity and associated factors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder in China, Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, in press. Q1. (IF2023=""2.5)

[11]. Si-yu Zhu, Qi Liu , Xiao-lu Zhang , Meng-han Zhou , Xin-qi Zhou, Fang-yuan Ding , Rong Zhang  Benjamin Becker, Keith M Kendrick(*), Wei-hua Zhao(*), Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation enhanced emotional inhibitory control via increasing intrinsic prefrontal couplings. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology. 2024 Apr-Jun;24(2):100462. doi: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2024.100462. Epub 2024 Apr 17. Q1. (IF2023=""8.8)

[12]. Jia-jia Yuan(#), Ya-nan Zhao(#), Xing-yu Lan, Yong Zhang, Rong Zhang(*), Prenatal, perinatal and parental risk factors of autism spectrum disorders: a case control study, BMC Psychiatry, 2024 Mar 20;24(1):219. doi: 10.1186/s12888-024-05643-0 Q2. (IF2023=""4.4)

[13]. Yanan Zhao, Rong Zhang, Xiaoying Zheng(*), Socioeconomic disparities in education placement for children of primary school age with autism spectrum disorder in China, Biosci Trends. 2024 Mar 19;18(1):73-82.  doi: 10.5582/bst.2023.01319. Epub 2024 Feb 8.

[14].Ya-nan Zhao, Feng Lu, Xiang-yu Wang, Ya-nan Luo, Rong Zhang, Ping He, Xiao-ying Zheng(*) The economic burden of autism spectrum disorder with and without intellectual disability in China：A nationwide cost-of-illness study Life time Societal Costs of ASD, Asian Journal of Psychiatry, (2024) doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajp.2023.103877 Q1. (IF2023=""9.5)

[15]. Kong-jie Lu, Chen-yang Li, Jiao Liu, Jin-peng Wang, Yong-feng Li, Bin He, Jun-zhao Li, Xiao-chen Zhang, Meng-ping Wei, Yong-lu Tian, Rong Zhang, Chen Zhang, Yong Zhang(*). Impairments in endogenous AMPA receptor dynamics correlates with learning deficits in Alzheimer's disease model mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2023 Oct 3;120(40):e2303878120. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2303878120.Q1. (IF2022=""11.1)

[16]. Ru-bing Zhou, Jun-zhao Li, Zheng-yang Chen, Rui-deng Wang, Yin Shen, Rong Zhang, Fang Zhou(*) and Yong Zhang(*) Pathological hemodynamic changes and leukocyte transmigration disrupt the blood–spinal cord barrier after spinal cord injury. Journal of Neuroinflammation 2023, 20:118. doi.org/10.1186/s12974-023-02787-w. Q1. (IF2021=""9.3)

[17]. Xi Jiang(#), Xiao-Jing Shou(#), Zhong-Bo Zhao, Fan-Chao Meng,, Jiao Le, Tian-Jia Song, Xin-Jie Xu, , Xiao-Yan Ke, Yu-Zhong Chen, Xiao-E Cai, Wei-Hua Zhao, Juan Kou, Ran Huo, Ying Liu, Hui-Shu Yuan, Yan Xing, Ji-Sheng Han, Song-Ping Han, Yun Li, , Hua Lai, Lan Zhang, Mei-Xiang Jia,  Jing Liu, Keith M. Kendrick(*),  Rong Zhang(*),A brain structural connectivity biomarker for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in early childhood, Psychoradiology, 2023 Apr 20:3:kkad005. doi: 10.1093/psyrad/kkad005. eCollection 2023.

[18]. Xing-Yu Lan(#), You-Yu Gu(#),Ming-Juan Li, Tian-Jia Song, Fu-Jun Zhai, Yong Zhang, Jiang-Shan Zhan, Tobias M. Böckers, Xiao-Nan Yue, Jia-Nan Wang, Shuo Yuan, Meng-Ying Jin, Yu-Fei Xie, Wan-Wen Dang, Hai-Heng Hong, Zi-Rui Guo, Xue-Wei Wang, and Rong Zhang(*). Poly(I:C)-induced maternal immune activation causes elevated self-grooming in male rat offspring: Involvement of abnormal postpartum static nursing in dam. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. 2023 Mar 16;11:1054381. doi: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1054381. Q1. (IF2022=""5.5)"

[19]. Ya-nan Zhao, Yan-an Luo, Rong Zhang, Xiao-ying Zheng (*).The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on emotional and behavioral problems of autism spectrum disorder and developmental delay children aged 1-6 years in China. Frontiers in Psychiatry.2023, 14:1134396.doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1134396 . Q2. (IF2022=""4.7)

[20]. Ya-nan Zhao, Yan-an Luo, Rong Zhang, Xiao-ying Zheng (*).Direct and indirect costs for families of children with autism spectrum disorder in China. Autism. 2023 Mar 7;13623613231158862. doi: 10.1177/13623613231158862. Q1. (IF2022= 5.2)

[21]. Ekaterina Atanasova, Andrea Pérez Arévalo, Ines Graf, Rong Zhang, Juergen Bockmann, Anne-Kathrin Lutz(*), Tobias M Boeckers(*). Immune activation during pregnancy exacerbates ASD related alterations in Shank3-deficient mice. Molecular Autism, 2023 Jan 5; 14 (1):1. doi: 10.1186/s13229-022-00532-3.Q1. (IF2022= 6.2)

[22]. Xi Jiang, Jia-dong Yan, Yu Zhao, Ming-xin Jiang, Yu-zhong Chen, Jing-chao Zhou, Zhen-xiang Xiao, Zi-fan Wang, Rong Zhang, Benjamin Becker, Da-jiang Zhu, Keith M. Kendrick(*), and Tian-ming Liu(*). Characterizing Functional Brain Networks via Spatio-Temporal Attention 4D Convolutional Neural Networks (STA-4DCNNs). Neural Networks. 2023 Volume 158, January, Pages 99-110. doi: 10.1016/j.neunet.2022.11.004.Q1. (IF2022= 7.8）

[23]. Ke-hao Liu, Liang-jie Yang, Xu Wang, Qi Huang, Kamoran Tuerhong, Mingcong Yang, Rong Zhang(*), Yuzhou Li (*),Sheng Yang(*). Electroacupuncture regulates macrophage, neutrophil, and oral microbiota to alleviate alveolar bone loss and inflammation in experimental ligature-induced periodontitis. Journal of Clinical Periodontology. 2023 Mar;50(3):368-379. doi: 10.1111/jcpe.13748.Q1. (IF2022=""6.7)

[24]. Wei-hua Zhao(#), Qin Li(#), Xiao-lu Zhang, Xin-wei Song, Si-yu Zhu,Xiao-jing Shou, Fan-chao Meng, Xin-jie Xu, Rong Zhang(*), Keith M Kendrick(*).Language skill impairments further distinguish social sub-types in children with autism, Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 2024 Jan;54(1):143-154. 2022 Oct 25, doi: 10.1007/s10803-022-05759-w. Q1. (IF2022= 3.9)

[25]. Zuo-yi Zhou(#), Jiang-shan Zhan(#), Qing-yun Cai, Fan-qing Xu, Rui-chao Chai, Kalista Lam, Zuo Luan, Grace Gou-ying Zhou, Shui-ying Tsang, Markus Kipp, Wen-ling Han, Rong Zhang, Albert Cheung Hoi Yu (*).The Water Transport System in Astrocytes–Aquaporins. Cells 2022, 11(16), 2564; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells11162564 Q2. (IF2022=""6.0)

[26]. Dan Xu, Yun-chen Meng, Sha-sha An, Wen-shu Meng,Han-ran Li,Wei-nan Zhang, Ya-qi Xue, Xin-yu Lan, Xiao-xi Wang, Ming-juan Li, Xiao-yan Zhang, Zhi-hao Zhang, Yu Zhao, Hao-dong Yang,Chen Zhang, Rong Zhang(*), Zhi-ping Zhen(*). Swimming exercise is a promising early intervention for autism-like behaviour in Shank3 deletion rats, CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics. 2022 Oct 11. doi: 10.1111/cns.13920. Q1 (IF2022= 5.5)

[27]. Jing Wu, Dongfang Wang, Lailai Yan, Meixiang Jia, Jishui Zhang, Songping Han, Jisheng Han, Jingyu Wang, Xi Chen(*), Rong Zhang. Associations of chemical elements serum concentrations with autism spectrum disorder. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2022 Jul 16. doi: 10.1007/s11356-022-21978-1 Q1 (IF2022= 5.8)

[28]. Jia-dong Yan, Yu-zhong Chen, Zhen-xiang Xiao, Shu Zhang, Ming-xin Jiang, Tian-qi Wang,Tuo Zhang, Jing-lei Lv , Benjamin Becker, Rong Zhang, Da-jiang Zhu, Jun-wei Han, De-zhong Yao, Keith M. Kendrick, Tian-ming Liu , Xi Jiang(*). Modeling spatio-temporal patterns of holistic functional brain networks via multi-head guided attention graph neural networks (Multi-Head GAGNNs), Medical Image Analysis 80 (2022) 102518 2022 doi: 10.1016/j.media.2022.102518. Epub 2022 Jun 15, Q1. (IF2022= 10.9)

[29]. Xiao-jun Feng(#), Na Zhu(#), Shuo Yang(#), Li Wang, Wei Sun, Rong Li, Fei Gong, Song-ping Han, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-sheng Han(*). Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation improves endometrial receptivity resulting in improved IVF-ET pregnancy outcomes in older women: A multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial, Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology. 2022 Aug 22; 20(1):127. doi: 10.1186/s12958-022-00997-0.0, Q1. (IF2022= 4.4)

[30]. Yu-hang Zhu, Fang-fang Wang, Jue Zhou, Shui-qin Gu, Lian-qing Gong, Yao-yao Lin Xiao-li Hu, Wei Wang, Ai-hua Zhang, Dong-mei Ma, Chun-xiao Hu, Yan Wu, Lan-zhong Guo, Li-min Chen, Lei-yin Cen, Yan He, Yu-qing Cai, En-li Wang, Hong-lou Chen, Jing Jin, Jin-he Huang, Mei-yuan Jin, Xiu-juan Sun, Xiao-jiao Ye, Lin-ping Jiang, Ying Zhang, Jian Zhang, Jun-fei Lin, Chun-ping Zhang, Guo-fang Shen, Wei Jiang, Liu-yan Zhong, Yue-fang Zhou, Ruo-ya Wu, Shi-qing Lu, Lin-lin Feng, Hong Guo, Shan-hu Lin, Qiao-su Chen, Jin-fang Kong, Xuan Yang, Meng-ling Tang, Chang Liu, Fang Wang, Xiao-yang Mio Hu, Hye Won Lee, Xin-fen Xu, Rong Zhang, Nicola Robinson, Myeong Soo Lee, Ji-sheng Han, Fan Qu(*). Effects of acupoint hot compress during early puerperium on parturients after a vaginal delivery: a randomized clinical trial, JAMA Network Open. 2022;5(5):e2213261. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.13261.Q1. (IF2022= 13.8)

[31]. Si-yu Zhu, Ya-nan Qing, Ying-ying Zhang, Xiao-lu Zhang, Fang-yuan Ding, Rong Zhang, Shu-xia Yao, Keith Kendrick(*), Wei-hua Zhao(*).Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation increases eye-gaze on salient facial features and oxytocin release, Psychophysiology, 31 May 2022 https://doi.org/10.1111/psyp.14107.Q1. (IF2022= 3.7)

[32]. Jiao Le, Lan Zhang, Wei-hua Zhao, Si-yu Zhu, Chun-mei Lan, Juan Kou, Qian-qian Zhang, Ying-ying Zhang, Qin Li, Zhuo Chen, Meina Fu, Christian Montag, Rong Zhang, Wen-xu Yang, Benjamin Becker, Keith M. Kendrick(*). Infrequent intranasal oxytocin followed by positive social interaction improves symptoms in autistic children: a pilot randomized clinical trial, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics. 2022;91(5):335-347. doi: 10.1159/000524543. Q1. (IF2022= 22.8)

[33]. Xiao-E Cai(#), Jiao Le(#), Xiao-Jing Shou, Gao-Wa Wu-Yun, Xiao-Xi Wang, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han, Keith M Kendrick(*), Rong Zhang(*). The salience of competing nonsocial objects reduces gaze toward social stimuli, but not the eyes, more in typically developing than autistic boys, Autism Research, Jun;15(6):1043-1055. doi: 10.1002/aur.2714. Epub 2022 Mar 31. Q1. (IF2022= 4.7)

[34]. Yun-Chen Meng(#), Dan Xu, Wei-Nan Zhang, Wen-Shu Meng, Xing-Yu Lan, Xiao-Xi Wang, Ming-Juan Li, Xiao-Yan Zhang, Yu Zhao, Hao-Dong Yang, Rong Zhang(*), Zhi-Ping Zhen(*). Effect of Early Swimming on the Behavior and Striatal Transcriptome of the Shank3 Knockout Rat Model of Autism. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2022 Mar 31;18:681-694. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S357338. Q3. (IF2022= 2.154)

[35]. Yu-Zhong Chen(#), Jia-Dong Yan, Ming-Xin Jiang, Tuo Zhang, Zhong-Bo Zhao, Wei-Hua Zhao, Jian Zheng, Rong Zhang, Keith M Kendrick, Xi Jiang (*). Adversarial Learning based Node-Edge Graph Attention Networks for Autism Spectrum Disorder Identification. IEEE Transactions on Learning Networks and Learning Systems. 2022 Mar 14;PP. doi: 10.1109/TNNLS.2022.3154755.Q1. (IF2022= 10.4)

[36]. Fu-Jun Zhai(#), Song-Ping Han(#), Tian-Jia Song, Ran Huo, Xing-Yu Lan, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Involvement of Opioid Peptides in the Analgesic Effect of Spinal Cord Stimulation in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain, Neuroscience Bulletin, 2022 Apr;38(4):403-416. doi: 10.1007/s12264-022-00844-7. Epub 2022 Apr 9.. Q1. (IF2022= 5.6)

[37]. Li-Jie Jiang(#), Tian Li(#), Jia-Jia Yuan, Rong Zhang(*), Jian-Liu Wang(*),Associations between Hormone Levels and Autistic Traits in Infertile Patients and Their Offspring with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Frontiers in Endocrinology, published: 19 January 2022 doi: 10.3389/fendo.2021.789395 Q1. (IF2022= 5.2)

[38]. Xin-Jie Xu(#), Xiao-E Cai(#), Fan-Chao Meng, Tian-Jia Song, Xiao-Xi Wang, Yi-Zhen Wei, Fu-Jun Zhai, Bo Long, Xin You and Rong Zhang(*).Comparison of the Metabolic Profiles in the Plasma and Urine Samples between Autistic and Typically Developing Boys: A Preliminary Study. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 04 June 2021 doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.657105. Q2. (IF2021= 5.435)

[39]. Jia-Hui Ma(#), Jing Wu(#), Hai-Bin Li, Jing-Yu Wang, Ji-Sheng Han, Rong Zhang(*).Association between Essential Metal Elements and the Risk of Autism in Chinese Han Population. Biological Trace Element Research, 2021 Apr 2. doi: 10.1007/s12011-021-02690-6. Q2. (IF2021= 4.081)

[40]. Hui Ma(#), Chen-yang Li, Jin-peng Wang, Xiao-chen Zhang, Ming-yue Li, Rong Zhang, Zhuo Huang, Yong Zhang(*). Amygdala-hippocampal innervation modulates stress-induced depressive-like behaviors through AMPA receptors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2021 Feb 9;118(6):e2019409118. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2019409118. Q1.  (IF2021= 12.779)

[41]. Jing Wu(#), Yu-Chuan Dai(#), Xing-Yu Lan, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han, Rong Zhang(*),Postnatal AVP Treatments Prevent Social Deficit in Adolescence of Valproic Acid-Induced Rat Autism Model, Peptides. 2021 Mar;137:170493. doi: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170493. Epub 2021 Jan 7. Q3. (IF2021= 3.867)

[42]. Stefanie Grabrucker(#), Johanna Schweizer, Jessica Pagano, Carolina Urrutia-Ruiz, Michael Schön, Kevin Thome, Günter Ehret, Andreas M. Grabrucker, Rong Zhang, Bastian Hengerer, Jürgen Bockmann, Chiara Verpelli, Carlo Sala and Tobias M. Boeckers(*).Activation of the medial preoptic area (MPOA) ameliorates loss of maternal behavior in a Shank2 mouse model for autism. The EMBO Journal. 2021 Mar 1;40(5):e104267. doi: 10.15252/embj.2019104267. Epub 2021 Jan 25. Q1. (IF2021= 13.783)

[43]. Xiao-Xi Wang(#), Rui Ding, Ya-Yue Song, Juan Wang, Chen Zhang, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han(*), Rong Zhang(*).Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation in early life changes  synaptic plasticity and improves symptoms in a valproic acid-induced rat model of autism. Neural Plasticity, 2020 Dec 29;2020:8832694. doi: 10.1155/2020/8832694. eCollection 2020. Q3. (IF2020= 3.599)

[44]. Li Tian(#), Xiao-Jun Feng(#), Rong Zhang(#), Shu-Yu Wang, Rong Li, Rui Kong, Yuan Fan, Xiao-Yu Zhang, Li-Ying Zhou, Shuo Yang, Yin Yao, Yi-Fan Bu, Yong-Lian Lan, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han, Wei Sun(*). Pain Relief during Oocyte Retrieval by Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation: A Single-Blinded, Randomized, Controlled Multicenter Trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine / 2020 Article ID 7643528 Q2. (IF2020= 2.629)

[45]. Yu Wan(#), Jia-rui Yang(#), Xiao-tong Ren, Zi-tong Yu, Rong Zhang(*), Xue-min Li(*). Evaluation of eye movements and visual performance in patients with cataract. Scientific Report. 2020 Jun 18;10(1):9875. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-66817-w. Q1. (IF2020=""4.379)

[46]. Ran Huo(#), Song-Ping Han(#), Feng-Yu Liu, Xiao-Jing Shou, Ling-Yu Liu, Tian-Jia Song, Fu-Jun Zhai, Rong Zhang, Guo-Gang Xing(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Responses of Primary Afferent Fibers to Acupuncture-Like Peripheral Stimulation at Different Frequencies: Characterization by Single-Unit Recording in Rats. Neurosci Bull. 2020 Aug;36(8):907-918. Q2. (IF2020=""5.203)

[47]. Tian-Jia Song(#), Xing-Yu Lan, Meng-Ping Wei, Fu-Jun Zhai, Tobias M. Boeckers, Jia-Nan Wang, Shuo Yuan, Meng-Ying Jin, Yu-Fei Xie, Wan-Wen Dang, Chen Zhang, Michael Schön, Pei-Wen Song, Mei-Hong Qiu, Ya-Yue Song, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han, Rong Zhang(*). Altered Behaviors and Impaired Synaptic Function in a Novel Rat Model with a Complete Shank3 Deletion. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 2019 Mar 26; 13: 111. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00111. eCollection 2019. Q2. (IF2019=""3.900)

[48]. Michael Schoen(#), Harun Asoglu, Helen F. Bauer, Hans-Peter Müller, Alireza Abaei, Ann Katrin Sauer, Rong Zhang, Tian-jia Song, Juergen Bockmann, Jan Kassubek, Volker Rasche, Andreas M. Grabrucker, Tobias M. Boeckers(*). Shank3 transgenic and prenatal zinc-deficient autism mouse models show convergent and individual alterations of brain structures in MRI, Frontiers Neural Circuits. 2019; 13: 6. Published online 2019 Feb 22. doi: 10.3389/fncir.2019.00006 Q2. (IF=""3.101)

[49].Yu-Chuan Dai(#), Hong-Feng Zhang(#), Michael Schön, Tobias M. Boeckers, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han, Rong Zhang(*). Neonatal Oxytocin Treatment Ameliorates Autistic-Like Behaviors and Oxytocin Deficiency in Valproic Acid-Induced Rat Model of Autism. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 2018 Oct 9;12:355. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00355. eCollection 2018. Q2. (IF2017=""4.300)

[50]. Fan-Chao Meng(#), Xin-Jie Xu(#), Tian-Jia Song, Xiao-Jing Shou, Xiao-Li Wang, Song-Ping Han, Ji-Sheng Han(*), Rong Zhang(*). The development of an autism subtyping questionnaire based on social behaviors. Neuroscience Bulletin. 2018 Oct;34(5):789-800, Q2. (IF2017=""3.155)

[51]. Jing Wu(#), Duo-Jian Liu, Xiao-Jing Shou, Ji-Shui Zhang, Fan-Chao Meng, Ya-Qiong Liu, Song-Ping Han, Rong Zhang, Jing-Yu Wang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Chinese children with autism: A multiple chemical elements profile in erythrocytes. Autism Res. 2018 Mar 30. doi: 10.1002/aur.1949. Q1. (IF2017=""3.768)

[52]. Xiao-Jing Shou(#), Xin-Jie Xu, Xiang-Zhu Zeng, Ying Liu, Hui-Shu Yuan, Yan Xing, Mei-Xiang Jia, Qing-Yun Wei, Song-Ping Han，Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). A Volumetric and Functional Connectivity MRI Study of Brain Arginine-vasopressin Pathways in Autistic Children. Neuroscience Bulletin. 2017 Mar 3. doi: 10.1007/s12264-017-0109-2. Q2. (IF2016=""3.155)

[53]. Jin Li(#), Han-Xia Li, Xiao-Jing Shou, Xin-Jie Xu, Tian-Jia Song, Song-Ping Han, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Effects of chronic restraint stress on social behaviors and the number of hypothalamic oxytocin neurons in male rats. Neuropeptides, 2016 Dec:60:21-28. Q3. (IF2015=""2.486)

[54]. Hong-Feng Zhang(#), Yu-Chuan Dai, Jing Wu, Mei-Xiang Jia, Ji-Shui Zhang, Xiao-Jing Shou, Song-Ping Han, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Plasma Oxytocin and Arginine-Vasopressin Levels in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in China: Associations with Symptoms. Neuroscience Bulletin. 2016 Oct; 32(5):423-32 Q3. (IF=""2.624)

[55]. Hong-Feng Zhang(#), Han-Xia Li(#), Yu-Chuan Dai, Xin-Jie Xu, Song-Ping Han, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Electro-acupuncture improves the social interaction behavior of rats. Physiology & Behavior, 2015 Nov 1:151:485-93 doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.08.014. Q2. (IF2014=""2.461)

[56]. Xin-Jie Xu(#), Hong-Feng Zhang, Xiao-Jing Shou, Jin Li, Wei-Long Jing, Ying Zhou, Yi Qian, Song-Ping Han, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Prenatal Hyperandrogenic Environment Induced Autistic-like Behavior in Rat Offspring. Physiology & Behavior, 138 (2015) 13–20. Q2. (IF2014=""2.461)

[57]. Xin-Jie Xu(#), Xiao-Jing Shou, Jin Li, Mei-Xiang Jia, Ji-Shui Zhang, Yan Guo, Qing-Yun Wei, Xiu-Ting Zhang, Song-Ping Han, Rong Zhang(*), Ji-Sheng Han(*). Mothers of Autistic Children: Lower Plasma Levels of Oxytocin and Arg-Vasopressin and a Higher Level of Testosterone. PLoS One. 2013; 8(9):e74849. Q1. (IF2012=""3.534)

[58]. Ke Wang(#), Rong Zhang(#), Fei He, Li-Bo Lin, Xiao-Hui Xiang, Xing-Jie Ping Ji-Sheng Han, Guo-Ping Zhao(*), Cai-Lian Cui(*). Electroacupuncture Frequency-Related Transcriptional Response in Rat Arcuate Nucleus Revealed Region-Distinctive Changes in Response to Low- and High-Frequency Electroacupuncture. Journal of Neuroscience research. Epub. 13 mar 2012. DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23028. Q2. (IF2011=""2.974)

[59]. Ke Wang(#), Rong Zhang(#), Fei He, Li-Bo Lin, Xiao-Hui Xiang, Xing-Jie Ping, Ji-Sheng Han, Qing-Hua Zhang, Guo-Ping Zhao, Cai-Lian Cui(*). Differences in Neural-Immune Gene Expression Response in Rat Spinal Dorsal Horn Correlates with Variations in Electroacupuncture Analgesia. PLoS One. 2012; 7(8):e42331. Epub 2012 Aug 3. Q1. (IF2011=""3.730)

[60]. Rong Zhang(#), Mei-Xiang Jia，Ji-Shui Zhang, Xin-Jie Xu, Xiao-Jing Shou, Xiu-Ting Zhang, Li Li, Ning Li, Song-Ping Han and Ji-Sheng Han(*). Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation in children with autism and its impact on plasma levels of arginine-vasopressin and oxytocin: A prospective single-blinded controlled study. Research in Developmental Disabilities. Epub. 22 mar 2012. 2012 July–August; 33 (4): 1136–46. Q1. (IF2011=""2.483)"

[61]. Hong-Yu Li(#), Rong Zhang(#), Cai-Lian Cui, Ji-Sheng Han, Liu-Zhen Wu(*). Damage of Splenic T Lymphocyte Proliferation and Differentiation and Its Normalization by Electroacupuncture in Morphine-Dependent Mice Mode. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Volume 2011, Article ID 424092, 5 pages. Q1. (IF2011=""4.774)

[62]. Rong Zhang(#), Xiao-Jun Feng(#), Qun Guan, Wei Cui, Ying Zheng, Wei Sun(*) and Ji-Sheng Han(*). Increase of success rate for women undergoing embryo transfer by transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation: a prospective randomized placebo-controlled study. Fertility and Sterility, 2011 Oct; 96 (4):912-6. Q1. (IF2011=""3.775)

[63]. Rong Zhang(#), Yu-Yu Xue, Shi-Duo Lu, Yao Wang, Ling-Mei Zhang, Ya-Lin Huang, Armando P. Signore, Jun Chen, and Feng-Yan Sun(*). Bcl-2 enhances neurogenesis and inhibits apoptosis of newborn neurons in adult rat brain following transient cerebral middle artery occlusion. Neurobiology of disease, 2006, 24, 345–356. Q1. (IF2006=""4.128)

Special Review, Humanities Article

[1]. Rong Zhang^(*#), Hong-Feng Zhang^(#), Ji-Sheng Han, Song-Ping Han. Genes Related to Oxytocin and Arginine-Vasopressin Pathways: Associations with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Neuroscience Bulletin. 2017 Mar 10. doi: 10.1007/s12264-017-0120-7(review). Q2. (IF2016=""3.155)

[2]. Rong Zhang, Ji-Sheng Han. In China, new hope for the “children of the stars” ，The UNESCO Courier，e-ISSN 2220-2293，January-March 2022, Distributed in 11 languages across 194 countries and shared on social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and WeChat.

[3]. Rong Zhang^(*), Ji-Sheng Han^(*),Song-Ping Han, Oxytocin and arginine vasopressin, a bridge between acupuncture and autism spectrum disorder, Medical Review (Commentary, Cover Story), May 19, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1515/mr-2022-0001

[4]. Rong Zhang^(*), Oxytocin - a Key to Aetiology and Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder(Commentary). EBioMedicine. 2022 Jun 24;81:104126. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104126. Q1. (IF2021=""" 11.205)

[5]. Zhao Wang, Bohan Zhang, Chenyu Mu, Dan Qiao, Huan Chen, Yan Zhao, Huixian Cui1, Rong Zhang^(*), Sha Li^(*), Androgen levels in autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2024 May 8:15:1371148. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1371148. eCollection 2024. Q1. (IF2023=""" 5.2)

[6]. Shilin Gao, Chaoyi Shan, Rong Zhang and Tianyun Wang^(*), Genetic advances in neurodevelopmental disorders，Medical Review (Commentary), 2024

[7]. Yi Ling Wang, Xin Lei Lu, Shang Wang, Xiao Hong Chang, Rong Zhang, Hong Lan Zhu^(*). Advancements in research on transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for alleviating pelvic pain in women. Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinical Medicine 2024;4:e000006. doi:10.1136/ gocm-2024-000006

[8]. Fan Qu^(*), Rong Zhang. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation: a bridge linking traditional Chinese medicine and AI-driven transformation in modern healthcare. Intergrative Medicine Research 14(2025) 101221.

Teaching Materials and Case Studies

[1] Authored two PBL teaching cases for Peking University Health Science Center as first author and principal investigator: “The Gradual Loss of Self” on Alzheimer's disease and “The Lonely Journey” on childhood autism.

[2] Co-authored the chapter “Regulation of Visceral Functions by the Central Nervous System” in the “Nervous System” volume of the “Human Morphology and Function” course cluster for the “101 Plan” core textbooks in basic medical sciences. Published by Peking University Medical Press, ISBN 978-7-5659-3213-7, July 2024.

[3] Co-translated Chapter 12: “INFECTION IN THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM” in “Organ System-Centered Translation Textbook: The Nervous System (2nd Edition),” Peking University Medical Press, ISBN: 978-7-5659-2002-8, published July 2019

[4] Co-authored Chapter 27 “Neurobiological Basis of Autism Spectrum Disorders” in Fundamentals of Medical Neuroscience, Fudan University Press, ISBN: 978-7-309-16252-3/R.1952, Published February 2023

[5] Co-authored Section 4, Chapter 2, “Regulation of Visceral Activities by the Nervous System,” in Chapter 2 of the Peking University Medical “New Era” Organ System Integration Textbook: The Nervous System, Peking University Medical Press, ISBN 978-7-5659-3096-6, Published January 2025

PUBLISHED BOOKS (Editor in chief)

1. Autism spectrum disorders - Frontiers and advance in medicine. Peking University Medical Publishing House, ISBN: 978-7-5659-1715-8, published in March 2018

2. China Autism Education and Rehabilitation Industry Development Status Report III. Tianjin Education Publishing House, ISBN: 9787565918292, published in March 2019

3. An internationally oriented proposal for the treatment and prevention of novel coronavirus pneumonia by combining Chinese and Western medicine. People's Health Publishing House, published in December 2020.

PATENTS

1. A Method and Device for Analyzing Diffusion Tensor Imaging Data, (Chinese invention patent:202110359402.0)

2. Data analysis method and device (Chinese invention patent: 201710341940.0)

3. Beijing Autism Subtyping Questionnaire (BASQ) (2016-L-00275072)

4. An acupoint stimulation device for the treatment of autism (China utility model patent number: 201220048286.7)

5. A method of treating autism (American patent for invention, US9138581B2)

6. An acupoint stimulating device for increasing pregnancy rate of in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (China utility model patent number: 201120430025.7)

7. An Acupoint Stimulation Equipment (China utility model patent number: 201720704330.8)

8. Method, Apparatus, Computer Device, and Storage Medium for Recognizing Social Behavior in Rats, 2023-3-29, China, Patent No.: 202310004597.6 (Patent Application Accepted)

Teaching

Offered at Peking University Health Science Center: Undergraduate Elective Course “Autism Spectrum Disorders,” Course ID (89139872)

Offered at Peking University Health Science Center: Graduate Elective Course “Autism Spectrum Disorders,” Course ID (JE191001)

PBL Teaching Cases for Childhood Autism