AI-driven virtual cell models show the potential to transform the paradigm of life sciences research by integrating multimodal omics data (e.g., single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics) with advanced algorithms such as deep generative models and graph neural networks to enable high-precision predictions of drug responses, gene perturbations, and disease progression. These models enable high-precision predictions of drug responses, gene perturbations, and disease progression. This review outlines the technical pathways and validation mechanisms of virtual cells, emphasizing a closed-loop workflow from computational evaluation to experimental verification using CRISPR assays and organoid platforms. The applications of virtual cells in personalized drug screening and disease modeling are highlighted, showcasing their potential to reduce animal testing and optimize therapy. However, challenges in regulatory acceptance, data privacy, and model interpretability remain. Global policy and standardization trends are driving clinical translation, and future advancements will involve cross-disciplinary integration and greater standardization to enhance the impact of virtual cells in precision medicine and drug discovery.

Background: Nutrient deficiency disorders (NDs) harm growth, causing economic losses. Addressing NDs is a global priority, yet recent data is limited. This study examines latest NDs data across 204 countries and 21 regions from 1990 to 2021.Methods: Data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study were used to analyze NDs-related incidence, prevalence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) at global, national, and regional levels. Joinpoint regression analysis was applied to evaluate temporal trends, with Estimated Annual Percentage Change (EAPC) assessing long-term patterns.Results: In 2021, the global burden of NDs remained substantial, with a total of 1,845,246,558 cases with an ASPR of 23,858.99 cases per 100,000 individuals (95% UI: 23,445.77–24,320.82). The ASIR was 7,725.1 per 100,000 people (95% UI: 7,404.01–8,109.01), while the ASMR was 3.03 per 100,000 persons (95% UI: 2.69–3.4). Additionally, age-standardized DALYs rate was 657.62 per 100,000 individuals (95% UI: 489.93–869.58). Regionally, areas with low SDI exhibited the greatest ASPR, ASIR, ASDR, and age-standardized DALYs rates, whereas high SDI regions had the lowest rates.Conclusions: Although global NDs burden has declined from 1990 to 2021, regional and demographic disparities remain. Enhanced healthcare access in high-risk SDI regions is essential to further mitigate NDs's global impact.