Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanism by which Atractylodin inhibits the activation of the murine hepatic stellate cell line(JS-1)induced by TGF-β1.Methods The CCK-8 assay was used to detect the impact of Atractylodin at different concentrations(0,5,10,20,40,80,160 μmol/L)on the viability of JS-1 cells,so as to screen the appropriate concentra-tion of Atractylodin.JS-1 cells were divided into the control group,the model group,and the groups with Atractylodin at concentrations of 5,10,and 20 μmol/L.Except for the control group,JS-1 cells in the other groups were stimulated with 5 ng/mL TGF-β1 for 24 hours to establish a liver fibrosis model.The expressions of α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)and type I collagen(COL1A1)were determined by Western blot(WB),qPCR,and immunofluorescence techniques.GC-MS technology was used to detect the metabolome of cells in each group.Principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis were employed to screen metabolic markers and enrich and analyze metabolic pathways.Genes related to the metabolic pathway of unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis were detected by qPCR.Results The results of the CCK-8 assay suggested that Atractylodin at concentrations of 5,10,and 20 μmol/L had no significant impact on cell viability.The pharmacological experimental results showed that compared with the model group,when the Atractylodin dosage increased from 5 μmol/L to 20 μmol/L,the protein levels of α-SMA and COL1A1 decreased progressively more sig-nificantly.A total of 14 differential metabolites were screened out by metabolomics analysis,and the metabolic pathway of unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis ranked high.Experimental verification has shown that atractylodin significantly affects the transcription levels of enzymes related to unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis,including PPARG,ACOT2,SREBP1,and ACSL1.Conclusion Atractyloside inhibits the activation of JS-1 in hepatic stellate cells,potentially through regulating the unsaturated fatty acid metabolic pathway.
Objective To investigate the effect and mechanism of ligustrazine(tetramethylpyrazine,TMP)on biliary atresia(BA)-associated liver fibrosis,focusing on its role in regulating the transforming growth factor-beta(TGF-β)/Smad pathway and inhibiting hepatocyte pyroptosis.Methods Animal study:C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into six groups:control,sham-operated,model(BA),pirfenidone,TMP,and VX-765(n=6).Mice were treated for 14 days.Liver histopathology was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE)and Masson staining.Serum aspartate aminotransferase(AST)and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)levels were measured.The expression of pyroptosis-related proteins(ASC,NLRP3,cleaved Caspase-1,N-terminal gasdermin D[N-GSDMD])and TGF-β/Smad pathway proteins was detected by Western blot(WB).Interleukin-1β(IL-1β)and interleukin-18(IL-18)levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Cell study:HSC-T6 cells were stimulated with TGF-β1 to establish a fibrotic model and then treated with TMP or VX-765.The aforementioned markers were similarly assessed.The regulatory interaction within the LncRNA H19/let-7-5p/TGFR1 axis was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay.Results The model group exhibited significant liver fibrosis,necrosis,collagen deposition,and elevated serum AST and ALT levels(P<0.001)compared with control and sham groups.The expres-sion of ASC,NLRP3,cleaved Caspase-1,N-GSDMD,IL-1β,and IL-18 was markedly upregulated(P<0.001,P<0.0001).The levels of TGF-β1,TβR1,phosphorylated Smad2/3(p-Smad2/3),and Smad4 were increased,while Smad7 was decreased(P<0.01,P<0.001).Pirfenidone,TMP,and VX-765 treatments significantly attenuated these pathological changes by reducing fibrosis and colla-gen accumulation,lowering transaminase levels,suppressing pyroptosis and inflammatory cytokines,and normalizing TGF-β/Smad sig-naling.Consistent results were obtained in cell experiments.Luciferase assays confirmed the targeting relationship among H19,let-7-5p,and TGFR1.In the fibrotic model,H19 expression was upregulated and let-7-5p was downregulated;TMP treatment reversed these alterations.Overexpression of H19 or TGFR1 partially abrogated the protective effects of TMP.Conclusion Ligustrazine alleviates BA-associated liver fibrosis by inhibiting hepatocyte pyroptosis,potentially through the modulation of the H19/let-7-5p/TGFR1 axis and the subsequent regulation of the TGF-β/Smad pathway,highlighting its therapeutic potential.
Acupuncture,as a core therapy of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),has achieved global recognition.However,cross-cultural translation and interpretation of acupuncture terminology in international education remain challenging.Drawing on the etymol-ogy of Chinese characters,semiotic theory,and embodied semantics,this paper proposes the Embodied Semiotics Framework to illumi-nate the interaction among language,bodily experience,and cultural cognition.Within this framework,the paper outlines cross-cultural pathways for interpreting TCM terminology and proposes multimodal pedagogical strategies and country-specific localization frameworks for international acupuncture education.The approach emphasizes integrating embodied perception with written symbols in teaching to deepen cross-cultural understanding of core TCM concepts.The research aims to promote cross-cultural translation of acu-puncture terminology,foster dialogue and cooperation among diverse medical systems,and provide actionable interpretive and applica-tive pathways for the dissemination of Chinese medical knowledge in international educational settings.
Objective To develop an ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry(UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS)method for the quantitative analysis of 18 saponins in Qili Qiangxin Capsule(芪苈强心胶囊,QLQXC),and to evaluate the quality of different batches of QLQXC using multivariate statistical analysis.Methods Chromatographic separation was per-formed on a Thermo Fisher Scientific Accucore Phenyl Hexyl column(100 mm×2.1 mm,2.6 µm)with a mobile phase consisting of 0.1%formic acid in water and acetonitrile,using gradient elution.The flow rate was 0.4 mL/min,and the column temperature was 35 ° C.Mass spectrometric detection was performed using electrospray ionization in negative ion mode with multiple reaction monitoring(MRM).SIMCA software was employed for multivariate statistical analysis of the content determination results.Results The calibration curves for the 18 saponins showed good linearity within their respective concentration ranges(r≥0.9962).The relative standard devia-tions(RSDs)of precision,repeatability,and stability were all less than 5.0%.The average recoveries ranged from 96.6%to 103.6%.Entropy weight method-technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution(EWM-TOPSIS)analysis revealed variations in the overall quality of different batches of QLQXC.Principal component analysis(PCA)and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA)results indicated that the 10 batches of samples could be classified into three categories.The variable importance in projection(VIP)values of compounds 1,2,7,18,12,9,8,and 14 were the key indicators contributing to the differences in prod-uct quality.Conclusion The developed method can rapidly quantify the 18 saponins in QLQXC,and eight differential compounds affect-ing product quality were identified through multivariate statistical analysis,providing a scientific basis for the quality control of QLQXC.
Based on the core concept of"Collaterals will function when unobstructed"in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)collat-eral disease theory,this paper systematically explores the multidimensional mechanisms of vine-based medicinals in treating pediatric IgA vasculitis(IgAV).By analyzing the association between the pathological features of IgAV and TCM pathogenesis patterns such as collateral stasis and disharmony of qi and blood,we propose that vine-based medicinals—with their structural resemblance to collater-als,blood-related properties,and efficacy across the triple energizer—form a three-dimensional mode of action integrating"medicinal imagery,clinical application,and pharmacological effect."The study indicates that vine-based medicinals,through their functions of clearing heat and detoxifying,promoting blood circulation and resolving stasis,dispelling wind and dampness,as well as nourishing yin and blood to unblock collaterals,exert targeted effects at different stages of the disease.They help alleviate acute-stage wind-heat induced collateral damage,modulate collateral stasis in the progression stage,ameliorate dampness-stasis intertwining in the persistent stage,and repair yin deficiency and collateral obstruction in the late stage.These medicinals also demonstrate modern pharmacological actions such as anti-inflammatory,immunomodulatory,and vascular protective effects.Integrating TCM theory with modern molecular mechanism research,this paper illustrates the advantages of vine-based medicinals in multi-target synergistic treatment of IgAV.
This article summarizes the experience of Professor LI Diangui,a national TCM master,in treating Crohn's disease(CD)with staged use of medicinal triplets based on the theory of"turbid toxins accumulating in the intestines".Professor LI Diangui considers that the core pathogenesis of CD is weakness of the spleen-earth and accumulation of turbid toxins in the intestines.The disease is located in the intestines and closely related to the liver,spleen,and stomach.Over time,it may affect the kidneys.The treatment prin-ciple is to resolve turbidity,detoxify,strengthen the healthy qi,and consolidate the root.The treatment is divided into stages,with dif-ferent medicinal triplets applied in each stage:Radix Bupleuri,Radix Paeoniae Alba,and Rhizoma Cyperi;Radix et Rhizoma Gin-seng,Poria,and Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae;Radix Scutellariae,Rhizoma Coptidis,and Herba Artemisiae Scopariae;Radix Angelicae Sinensis,Rhizoma Chuanxiong,and Scorpio;Radix Codonopsis,Radix Astragali,and Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata;Fruc-tus Psoraleae,Semen Myristicae,and Fructus Euodiae.In the early stage,the treatment aims to soothe liver qi and strengthen the spleen to resolve dampness;in the middle stage,to clear heat and dry dampness,promote blood circulation,and relieve pain;and in the late stage,to tonify qi and yin,warm the kidneys,and warm the spleen.The treatment balances healthy qi and pathogenic factors,addresses both the branch and root,and emphasizes regulating qi movement throughout the course,achieving significant clinical out-comes.
Objective To observe the effects of electroacupuncture(EA)at different frequencies on pain behaviors in rats with neuro-pathic pain(NP)and to examine the levels of cannabinoid receptor 1(CB1R),N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subtype 2B(NR2B),extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5(ERK5)proteins and inflammatory factors in the spinal dorsal horn and dorsal root ganglion(DRG),in order to explore the mechanisms underlying the EA-mediated alleviation of NP.Methods Fifty-four SD rats were randomly divided into a normal group,a model group,a sham EA group,a 2 Hz EA group,a 50 Hz EA group,and a 100 Hz EA group,with 9 rats in each group.Except for the normal group,chronic constriction injury(CCI)of the sciatic nerve was induced in rats of the other groups.Rats in the EA groups received EA stimulation at the Yanglingquan(GB 34)and Huantiao(GB 30)acupoints at frequencies of 2 Hz,50 Hz,or 100 Hz,respectively,for 30 min per session,once a day,for 7 consecutive days.The mechanical withdrawal thresh-old(MWT)and thermal withdrawal latency(TWL)were measured in each group.Serum levels of IL-1β,IL-6,and TNF-α were mea-sured using ELISA.The relative protein expression levels of CB1R,NR2B,and ERK5 in the spinal dorsal horn and DRG were detected by Western blot(WB).The mRNA expression levels of CB1R,NR2B,and ERK5 were determined by polymerase chain reaction(PCR).Results Compared with the normal group,the model group showed significantly decreased MWT and TWL(both P<0.001),and significantly increased serum levels of TNF-α,IL-6,and IL-1β(P<0.05 or P<0.01).The mRNA and protein expression levels of CB1R in the spinal dorsal horn and DRG were downregulated,whereas those of NR2B and ERK5 were upregulated(P<0.01).Com-pared with the model group,both the 2 Hz and 50 Hz EA groups showed significant increases in MWT and TWL(P<0.001 or P<0.01),indicating alleviation of mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia.Serum levels of TNF-α,IL-6,and IL-1β were also signifi-cantly reduced in these two groups(P<0.05 or P<0.01).Furthermore,CB1R mRNA and protein expression were upregulated in the DRG,while NR2B and ERK5 mRNA and protein expression were downregulated in both the spinal dorsal horn and DRG(P<0.01).Additionally,the 2 Hz EA group exhibited upregulated CB1R mRNA and protein expression specifically in the spinal dorsal horn(P<0.01).The 100 Hz EA group showed a decrease in serum IL-1β level(P<0.01),an upregulation of CB1R protein expression in the DRG,and downregulation of NR2B and ERK5 protein expression(P<0.05 or P<0.01).No significant changes were observed in the sham EA group compared to the model group(P>0.05).Conclusion EA alleviates NP in rats possibly through modulating the expres-sion of CB1R,NR2B,and ERK5 and the levels of inflammatory factors.The findings suggest that 2 Hz low-frequency EA might be a preferable frequency for alleviating NP.
Objective To investigate whether Jinqizhi Granule(金芪志颗粒,JQZG)can inhibit chondrocyte ferroptosis by modulating the ATF-4/NUPR1 signaling pathway in knee osteoarthritis(KOA)rats,thereby protecting cartilage tissue.Methods A KOA rat model was established via meniscal instability surgery.Rats were divided into five groups:control,KOA,and low/medium/high-dose JQZG groups(n=8 per group).The control group underwent sham operation.Two weeks post-operation,low/medium/high-dose groups received oral administration of JQZG at 6.4,12.8,and 25.6 g/(kg·d),respectively.The sham-operated and KOA groups received saline via oral gavage once daily for 4 consecutive weeks.Chondral tissue pathological changes were observed using Fuchsin-Green staining and scored according to the Mankin grading system.Western blot(WB)and qPCR were used to detect chondral tissue markers of the ATF-4/NUPR1 pathway[Activated Transcription Factor 4(ATF-4),Nucleoprotein 1(NUPR1)],ferroptosis markers[acyl-CoA synthase 4(ACSL4),glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4),solute carrier family 7 member 11(SLC7A11)],and matrix metabolism mark-ers[matrix metalloproteinase-13(MMP-13),type II collagen(Collagen II)].Immunohistochemistry(IHC)examined the expression levels of ATF-4,NUPR1,ACSL4,GPX4,and SLC7A11 in cartilage tissue across all groups.Results Compared with the sham-operated group,rats in the KOA group exhibited severe cartilage margin destruction,elevated Mankin scores,and decreased protein and mRNA expression levels of GPX4,SLC7A11,and Collagen II,while showing increased expression levels of ATF-4,NUPR1,ACSL4,and MMP-13(P<0.01).Compared with the KOA group,all intervention groups exhibited decreased ATF-4,NUPR1,ACSL4,and MMP-13 protein and mRNA expression levels(P<0.01),while GPX4,SLC7A11,and Collagen II protein and mRNA expression levels were increased.IHC analysis of cartilage tissue after intervention showed a significant decrease in ATF-4,NUPR1,ACSL4 in cartilage tissue was significantly reduced,while the proportion of GPX4 and SLC7A11 positive areas was markedly increased.Conclusion JQZG can improve cartilage damage in KOA by regulating the ATF-4/NUPR1 pathway to inhibit ferroptosis in chondrocytes.
Guided by the Cancer Toxin Theory and based on the pathogenesis characterized by"spleen-kidney deficiency,latent cancer toxin,transformation of chemotherapeutic toxicity,and intermingled stasis and heat",a staged treatment system centered on the warming yang,nourishing yin,and removing toxins has been constructed.This system integrates the holistic concept of visceral defi-ciency and dysfunction of the triple energizer,draws upon classical theories such as consumptive disease,latent toxin,and collateral disease,and applies in a stage-specific manner the principles of warming yang to boost qi,nourishing yin to enrich blood,and detoxify-ing to dispel stasis and heat.Accordingly,a three-stage strategy is formulated:the initial stage focuses on warming and nourishing,the middle stage emphasizes detoxification,and the late stage prioritizes strengthening the healthy qi to prevent recurrence.
Objective To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activity of freshly processed Radix Scutellariae slices,establish their high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)fingerprint,and perform chemical pattern recognition analysis.Methods The antioxidant activity was assessed via 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH)and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)(ABTS)radical scavenging assays.HPLC fingerprints of 24 batches of freshly processed Radix Scutellariae slices were generated using baicalin as the reference peak.Similarity evaluation was conducted using the Similarity Evaluation System for Chromatographic Fingerprint of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2012 Edition)to determine common characteristic peaks.SPSS 26.0 software was employed for Spear-man correlation analysis to identify potential compounds contributing to antioxidant activity.The relationship between chemical constitu-ents and activity was further explored using grey relational analysis(GRA)and partial least squares regression(PLSR).Results The half-maximal inhibitory concentration(IC₅₀)values for DPPH radical scavenging ranged from 0.127 to 0.672 mg/mL,while those for ABTS ranged from 9.758 to 18.740 µg/mL.The fingerprints of the 24 batches revealed 20 common peaks,with similarity coefficients between 0.998 and 1.000.Four common peaks were identified as baicalin(peak 6),wogonoside(peak 12),baicalein(peak 15),and wogonin(peak 17).GRA and PLSR indicated that peaks 7,12(wogonoside),3,6(baicalin),15(baicalein),4,5,8,10,9,and 17(wogonin)were the primary characteristic peaks associated with the antioxidant activity of the freshly processed slices.Conclusion The established HPLC fingerprint method is suitable for quality evaluation of freshly processed Radix Scutellariae slices.The antioxidant activity results from the synergistic effects of multiple components,revealing the potential pharmacodynamic material basis underlying this bioactivity.
Objective To explore the effects of the medicated serum of Guilu Er'xian Gelatin(龟鹿二仙胶,GLEXG)on autophagy-related factors ULK1,Beclin-1,LC3-Ⅱ,and ATG5 in chondrocytes.Methods Chondrocytes were extracted using enzyme digestion,and GLEXG-containing serum was prepared via oral gavage in SD rats.The IL-1-induced degenerative chondrocyte model was estab-lished,and the chondrocytes were divided into five groups:the blank group,model group,GLEXG group,tortoise shell group,and deer antler group.After treatment with GLEXG serum,chondrocyte viability was detected by CCK-8,ATG5 expression by immunofluo-rescence staining,qPCR was used to measure mRNA expression of Beclin-1,ULK1,and LC3-Ⅱ in each group,and Western blot(WB)was performed to detect the protein expressions of ULK1,p-ULK1,Beclin-1,and LC3-Ⅱ in each group.Results Compared with the blank group,the model group showed a decrease in OD values of chondrocytes,a reduction in the average fluorescence intensity of ATG5,and lower mRNA and protein expression levels of Beclin-1,LC3-Ⅱ,and ULK1,along with decreased p-ULK1 protein expression(P<0.05),and an increase in the number of autophagosomes.Compared with the model group,the other groups exhibited higher OD values,average fluorescence intensity of ATG5,mRNA expressions of Beclin-1,LC3-Ⅱ,and ULK1,as well as increased protein expressions of Beclin-1 and p-ULK1(P<0.05),with ULK1 and LC3-Ⅱ protein expression elevated in the Guilu group and tor-toise shell group(P<0.05).Compared with the tortoise shell group,the deer antler group showed an increase in OD values of chondro-cytes while the protein and mRNA levels of Beclin-1 and LC3-Ⅱ were decreased,and ULK1 mRNA was decreased(P<0.05).Conclu-sion The GLEXG-contained serum can enhance the proliferation and vitality of chondrocytes,with the mechanism possibly involving promoting autophagy-related factors ULK1,p-ULK1,Beclin-1,LC3-Ⅱ,and ATG5,thereby enhancing chondrocyte autophagy,with the autophagy-promoting effect of tortoise shell gelatin being superior to that of deer antler gelatin.
Objective To investigate the mechanism of mulberry leaf compound(MLC)in treating obesity using network pharmacology,molecular docking,and experimental validation.Methods Active components and targets of MLC were screened through databases,and a"componenttarget"network as well as a PPI network were constructed,followed by GO and KEGG enrichment analyses.An obese rat model was established using a highfat diet(HFD).The rats were divided into a model group,MLC low/medium/highdose groups(6.3,12.5,25.1 g/kg),Orlistat group,and blank group,with 10 rats in each group.The intervention lasted 6 weeks.Blood lipids,blood glucose,insulin,and pathological changes in perirenal fat were measured.Results A total of 67 active components and 171 intersecting targets were obtained.Key targets included TNF,VEGFA,PPARG,etc.,which were mainly enriched in pathways such as PI3K/Akt and insulin resistance.Molecular docking indicated stable binding between active components and targets.Animal experiments showed that MLC significantly reduced body weight and wet fat mass in obese rats and improved glucose and lipid metabolism indicators(P<0.05).Conclusion MLC may ameliorate obesity by regulating the PI3K/Akt and other pathways through multiple components and multiple targets,thus providing a basis for mechanistic research.
Objective To observe the effects of Changpu Yujin Decoction(菖蒲郁金汤,CPYJD)on the factors related to striatal iron homeostasis in tic disorder(TD)model rats.Methods Sixty male SD rats were randomly divided into the blank group(n=15)and the modeling group(n=45),and the animal model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 3,3-iminodipropionitrile(IDPN),and behavioral evaluation was performed,and a score of≥2 meant that the modeling of the TD rats was successful.After successful model-ing,45 SD rats meeting the criteria were divided into the model group,the Tiapride group and the CPYJD group by complete randomiza-tion,and the intervention was carried out for 4 consecutive weeks.Behavioral observations were performed on rats after modeling and post-intervention;Nissl staining was used to observe the morphology and structure of rat striatal tissue;transmission electron microscopy(TEM)was used to observe the ultrastructure of rat striatal neurons;an iron assay kit was used to detect the iron content in rat striatum and peripheral blood;ELISA was used to detect the content of dopamine(DA),tyrosine hydroxylase(TH),and reactive oxygen species(ROS)in rat striatum;Immunohistochemistry(IHC),RT-PCR and Western blot(WB)were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of transferrin receptor 1(TFR1),divalent metal transporter 1(DMT1),ferroportin 1(FPN1),hepcidin,mitochondrial fer-ritin(FtMt),ferritin(FT)in the striatum of rats.Results Compared with the blank group,rats in the model group showed significantly higher stereotyped and locomotor behaviors(P<0.01);lower DA and TH levels and higher ROS levels(all P<0.01);higher expression of TFR1,DMT1 and Hepcidin protein levels and mRNA levels(P<0.01),and lower expression of FPN1,FtMt and FT protein levels and mRNA levels(P<0.01);decreased striatal and serum iron levels(P<0.01);abnormal morphology and structure of nerve cells;and destruction of neuronal ultrastructure.Compared with the model group,the stereotyped and locomotor behaviors of rats in the Tiapride group and the CPYJDgroup were significantly reduced(P<0.01);the DA and TH levels were elevated(P<0.01),and the ROS level was reduced(P<0.01);the protein and mRNA levels of TFR1,DMT1,and Hepcidin were reduced,while the protein and mRNA levels of FPN1,FtMt,and FT were increased;striatal iron content and serum iron content increased(P<0.01);neuronal cell morphology and structure were more regular;neuronal ultrastructure was intact,and CPYJD group was better than the Tiapride group.Conclusion CPYJD has an anti-twitching effect,and the mechanism may be related to regulating the DA system by modulating striatal iron homeostasis.
Objective To explore the effect of Qingxin Zishen Decoction(清 心 滋 肾 汤,QXZSD)on pregnancy outcomes in patients with diminished ovarian reserve(DOR)based on the constitution identification system of TCM.Methods A total of 300 patients with DOR were screened using the TCM constitution identification system,and their constitutional types were categorized.Among them,150 patients with yin deficiency constitution were randomly divided into a yin deficiency treatment group(75 cases)and a yin deficiency observation group(75 cases);another 150 patients with qi stagnation constitution were randomly divided into a qi stagnation treatment group(75 cases)and a qi stagnation observation group(75 cases).The observation groups(yin deficiency and qi stagnation)received conventional ovulation induction treatment,while the treatment groups took QXZSD on the basis of the treatment for the corresponding observation groups.The course of treatment was 4 weeks,and the treatment was stopped during menstruation.The two groups were com-pared in terms of TCM syndrome scores,serum basal follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH),luteinizing hormone(LH),estradiol(E2),and anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH)levels,number of antral follicles,cumulative number of cycles,gonadotropin(Gn)dosage and Gn administration days,cycle cancellation rate,clinical pregnancy rate,biochemical pregnancy rate,ectopic pregnancy rate,and ovula-tion rate before and after treatment.Results Patients with yin deficiency and qi stagnation constitutions demonstrated improvement in TCM syndrome scores following QXZSD treatment.In the yin deficiency treatment group,post-treatment basal E2 levels rose signifi-cantly compared to baseline,while both yin deficiency and qi stagnation treatment groups exhibited higher E2 and LH levels on the human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)trigger day relative to their corresponding observation groups,accompanied by an increased preva-lence of type A endometrial morphology.The yin deficiency treatment group showed a notable trend toward enhanced clinical pregnancy rates compared to its corresponding observation group,whereas the qi stagnation treatment group displayed superior outcomes in both ovulation rates and clinical pregnancy rates,underscoring QXZSD's differential therapeutic efficacy across constitutional subtypes.Con-clusion Based on the TCM constitution identification system,the intervention of QXZSD on pregnancy outcomes in patients with DOR is of positive significance and exhibits certain advantages in treating DOR patients.
Knee osteoarthritis(KOA)is a chronic degenerative disease characterized by joint pain,stiffness,and limited mobility,seriously affecting patients'quality of life.Studies have demonstrated that the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway plays an important role in regulation of chondrocyte proliferation,apoptosis,and autophagy,as well as in inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress,closely asso-ciated with the pathophysiological development process of KOA.In recent years,TCM has demonstrated significant advantages in the treatment of KOA,and its characteristics of multi-target and multi-pathway effects and few side-effects can inhibit disease progression of KOA and mitigate clinical symptoms of patients.Particularly,modulation of PI3K/AKT pathway has gradually become a research hot-spot.This paper systematically reviews the regulatory mechanisms of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in KOA by reviewing recent litera-ture,and summarized the research results of CM monomers and active ingredients,and TCM compound formulas targeting the PI3K/AKT pathway in the treatment of KOA,aiming to provide references for TCM clinical applications,basic research,and new drug devel-opment in KOA.
Objective To explore the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)combined with Tiaoshen and Kaiyu acupuncture(acupuncture for regulating the spirit and relieving depression)on the depressive symptoms,serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF),5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT),and the clinical efficacy of patients with post-stroke depression(PSD).Methods A total of 116 PSD patients from January 2024 to December 2024 were selected and randomly divided into the control group and the obser-vation group,with 58 cases in each group.The control group received routine basic care in addition to routine psychological care;the observation group received CBT and Tiaoshen and Kaiyu acupuncture in addition to the routine care,with an intervention period of 8 weeks.Before treatment and 8 weeks after treatment,the Self-Rating Depression Scale(SDS),the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale(HAMD-17),and the TCM syndrome scores were evaluated,and the levels of serum BDNF and 5-HT were detected.The clinical effi-cacy was compared.Results After 8 weeks of treatment,the SDS,HAMD-17 scores,and TCM syndrome scores of both groups signifi-cantly decreased,while the levels of BDNF and 5-HT increased(P<0.05).Moreover,the improvement in the observation group was better than that in the control group(P<0.05).The total effective rate of the observation group was 96.55%,which was higher than that of the control group 79.31%(P=0.010).Conclusion CBT combined with Tiaoshen and Kaiyu acupuncture could significantly relieve the depressive symptoms and improve TCM syndrome scores of PSD patients,increase the levels of BDNF and 5-HT,and enhance the overall clinical effectiveness rate.It has the advantages of treating both the body and mind simultaneously and acting on mul-tiple targets,and is worthy of promotion in clinical nursing.
Objective To investigate the effects of acupuncture intervention on cognitive function and the characteristics of sleep spindles in patients with chronic insomnia(CI).Methods Sixty-three eligible volunteers were randomly assigned to a healthy control group(n=19),an acupuncture group(n=22),and a sham acupuncture group(n=22).The healthy control group received no treat-ment.The acupuncture group was treated with standard acupuncture needles,while the sham acupuncture group received placebo-needle treatment at non-acupoints near Baihui(GV 20),Sishencong(EX-HN 1),Shenting(GV 24),Shenmen(HT 7),Neiguan(PC 6),Zusanli(ST 36),Sanyinjiao(SP 6),Taixi(KI 3),and Taichong(LR 3).Each session lasted 30 minutes,administered three times per week for four consecutive weeks.The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI),Insomnia Severity Index(ISI),and Montreal Cognitive Assessment(MoCA)scores were assessed at baseline,2 weeks,and 4 weeks.Sleep spindle characteristics were analyzed before and after treatment.Results After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment,PSQI and ISI scores were lower,and MoCA scores were higher in the acupuncture group compared to the sham acupuncture group(P<0.05),approaching those in the healthy control group.Within the acupuncture group,PSQI and ISI scores were decreased significantly,and MoCA scores were increased significantly after 2 and 4 weeks compared to baseline(P<0.05).In contrast,no significant changes were observed in the sham acupuncture group at 2 or 4 weeks com-pared to baseline(P>0.05).After treatment,significant differences in spindle density and duration were found between the acupunc-ture group and the sham acupuncture group(P<0.001).The acupuncture group showed higher spindle density(P<0.001)and longer spindle duration(P<0.001)than the sham acupuncture group.Conclusion Acupuncture may alleviate sleep disturbances and enhance cognitive function in CI patients with cognitive decline,potentially by modulating sleep spindle characteristics(density and duration).
Objective Expiloring the effect of Banxia Xiexin Decoction(半夏泻心汤,BXXXD)on regulating the p53/SAT1/ALOX15 pathway in rat gastic tissue and intervening in gastric precancerous lesions(GPL).Methods Twenty-four SD rats were randomly divided into a control group,a model group,and a BXXXD group.The control group received standard feeding,while the other two groups were modeled using the N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine(MNNG)multi-factor composite method.After 19 weeks of continuous modeling,the model group and the BXXXD group continued to have free access to MNNG solution.Additionally,the BXXXD group received daily intragastric administration of BXXXD at a dose of 1 mL/100 g for 10 consecutive weeks.Gastric muco-sal histopathological changes were observed under light microscopy using HE staining.The mRNA expression levels of p53,SAT1,and ALOX15 were detected by RT-PCR.The protein expression levels of p53,SAT1,and ALOX15 were determined by Western blot(WB).Results HE staining revealed moderate to severe mucosal atrophy with some dysplasia in the model group,while the BXXXD group exhibited only mild atrophy and no dysplasia.Compared to the control group,the mRNA expression levels of p53,SAT1,and ALOX15 were significantly decreased in the model group(P<0.01).BXXXD intervention significantly increased the mRNA expres-sion levels of p53,SAT1,and ALOX15 compared to the model group(P<0.01).Similarly,the protein expression levels of p53,SAT1,and ALOX15 were significantly lower in the model group than in the control group(P<0.01),and these levels were higher after BXXXD intervention compared to the model group(P<0.01).Conclusion BXXXD may alleviate the pathological state of GPL in rats by regulating ferroptosis through the p53/SAT1/ALOX15 pathway.
Objective To investigate the mechanism of electroacupuncture(EA)in treating Parkinson's disease(PD),We try to observe the effect of EA on mitophagy in the midbrain substantia nigra of PD mice.Methods The mice were randomly divided into normal,model,EA,model+3-MA,and EA+3-MA groups(12 mice in each group).The model mice were intraperitoneally injected with MPTP(30 mg/kg)solution for 7 days.After the model was successed,We gave mice in the EA group electroacupuncture treatment 20 min for 5 days;Mice in model+3-MA group were given 3-MA(25 mg/kg)injection for 5 days;Mice in EA+3-MA group were also given 3-MA(25 mg/kg),then they were electroacupunctured 2h later,20 min for 5 days.After the treatment,we used OFT to observe the activity in mice;Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of TH,α-syn and the average fluorescence of LC3 in mice;TEM was used to observe ultrastructure of the SN;WB and RT-PCR were used to access protein/mRNA expressions of TH,α-syn,PINK1,Parkin,P62,Beclin-1,LC3.Results Compared with the normal group,the movement in PD mice were decreased(P<0.01),IOD of TH decreased(P<0.01),IOD of α-syn increased(P<0.01),the mean fluorescence intensity of LC3 reduced(P<0.01),The structure of mitochondrion were changing in PD group.TH,PINKI,Parkin,Beclin-1,LC3 protein and mRNA expression reduced(P<0.01),α-syn,P62 protein and mRNA expression elevated(P<0.01)in PD group;compared with the model group,the indicators in EA group were improved;compared with EA group,the effect of EA treatment was reversed in EA+3-MA group(P<0.01).Conclusion EA ameliorates motor dysfunction,reduces α-syn aggregation and increases TH,restores mitochon-drial ultrastructure to protect DA neurons in PD mice by enhancing mitophagy levels.
This article summarizes the clinical experience of Professor HAN Mingxiang in using the dredging therapy to treat obstruc-tive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome(OSAHS).Professor HAN Mingxiang believes that any therapeutic approach characterized by its dredging property,which serves the purpose of"eliminating pathogens and restoring harmony,"falls under the category of the dredging method.The dredging therapy is applied to relieve stagnation,address deficiency,and concurrently apply elimination and tonification techniques.Based on the principle of tonifying the primordial qi and boosting qi,the treatment integrates methods to clear wind-heat,resolve phlegm-dampness,and promote blood circulation to unblock the collaterals.Professor HAN flexibly modifies classic formulas,including Shenling Baizhu Powder(参苓白术散,SLBZP),Erchen Decoction(二陈汤,ECT),Huanglian Wendan Decoction(黄连温胆汤,HLWDD),and Shuanghe Decoction(双合汤,SHD),in the treatment of OSAHS.
