1.Effect and mechanism of Prunus mume against hepatic fibrosis
Feng HAO ; Ji LI ; Jing DU ; Yuchen OUYANG ; Yichun CUI ; Shuang WEI
China Pharmacy 2025;36(2):172-178
OBJECTIVE To explore the effect and mechanism of Prunus mume against hepatic fibrosis (HF). METHODS Male SD rats were randomly divided into normal control group (n=10) and modeling group (n=50). The modeling group established HF model using carbon tetrachloride. The modeled rats were randomly divided into model group (normal saline), positive control group [colchicine, 0.09 mg/(kg·d)], and P. mume low-dose, medium-dose and high-dose groups [1.35, 2.70, 5.40 g/(kg·d)], with 9 rats in each group. They were given the corresponding drug/normal saline intragastrically, once a day, for 8 consecutive weeks. After the last medication, the liver index was calculated, while liver function indexes, liver fiber indexes, oxidative stress indicators and inflammatory factors of rats were measured. HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes in liver tissue of rats; Masson staining was used to observe the degree of HF in liver tissue of rats; transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructure of liver tissue in rats; TUNEL staining was used to detect liver cell apoptosis in each group of rats. Western blot method was used to detect the protein expressions of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in liver tissue of rats. RESULTS Compared with normal control group, the levels of alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate transaminase, total bilirubin, malondialdehyde, procollagen type Ⅲ protein, Ⅳ-type pre collagenase, laminin, hyaluronic acid, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, as well as the protein expressions of TGF-β1 and PDGF in model group were increased significantly, while the levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were significantly reduced (P<0.01); the HE, Masson staining and transmission electron microscopy observation results showed obvious HF characteristics in rats of model group. Compared with model group, varying degrees of improvement in above indexes were observed in P. mume groups, and the above 2021BSZR011) indicators of rats in P. mume medium-dose and high-dose groups were reversed significantly (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS P. mume has an anti-HF effect, which may be achieved through mechanisms such as antioxidation, anti-inflammation, reduction of collagen production, inhibition of PDGF protein expression, and regulation of TGF- β1 signaling pathway.
2.Optimization of drug management model for investigator-initiated trial with benchmarking analysis
Yufei XI ; Tianxiao WANG ; Xue ZHANG ; Yingzhuo DING ; Li YAN ; Feng JIANG ; Xiangui HE ; Jiannan HUANG ; Qin LI
China Pharmacy 2025;36(3):280-284
OBJECTIVE To optimize the management model of drugs used in investigator-initiated trial (IIT). METHODS With benchmarking analysis, based on the practical work experience of a tertiary specialized hospital in the field of IIT drug management in Shanghai, a thorough review was conducted, involving relevant laws, regulations, and academic literature to establish benchmark criteria and the evaluation standards. Starting from the initiation of IIT projects, a detailed comparative analysis of key processes was carried out, such as the receipt, storage, distribution, use and recycling of drugs for trial. The deficiencies in the current management of IIT drugs were reviewed in detail and a series of optimization suggestions were put forward. RESULTS It was found that the authorized records of drug management were missing, the training before project implementation was insufficient, and the records of receipt and acceptance of IIT drugs were incomplete. In light of these existing problems, improvement measures were put forward, including strengthening the training of drug administrators and stipulating that only drug administrators with pharmacist qualifications be eligible to inspect and accept drugs, etc. The related systems were improved, and 17 key points of quality control for the management of IIT drugs were developed. CONCLUSIONS A preliminary IIT drug management system for medical institutions has been established, which helps to improve the institutional X2023076) framework of medical institutions in this field.
3.Effect and mechanism of Prunus mume against hepatic fibrosis
Feng HAO ; Ji LI ; Jing DU ; Yuchen OUYANG ; Yichun CUI ; Shuang WEI
China Pharmacy 2025;36(2):172-178
OBJECTIVE To explore the effect and mechanism of Prunus mume against hepatic fibrosis (HF). METHODS Male SD rats were randomly divided into normal control group (n=10) and modeling group (n=50). The modeling group established HF model using carbon tetrachloride. The modeled rats were randomly divided into model group (normal saline), positive control group [colchicine, 0.09 mg/(kg·d)], and P. mume low-dose, medium-dose and high-dose groups [1.35, 2.70, 5.40 g/(kg·d)], with 9 rats in each group. They were given the corresponding drug/normal saline intragastrically, once a day, for 8 consecutive weeks. After the last medication, the liver index was calculated, while liver function indexes, liver fiber indexes, oxidative stress indicators and inflammatory factors of rats were measured. HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes in liver tissue of rats; Masson staining was used to observe the degree of HF in liver tissue of rats; transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructure of liver tissue in rats; TUNEL staining was used to detect liver cell apoptosis in each group of rats. Western blot method was used to detect the protein expressions of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in liver tissue of rats. RESULTS Compared with normal control group, the levels of alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate transaminase, total bilirubin, malondialdehyde, procollagen type Ⅲ protein, Ⅳ-type pre collagenase, laminin, hyaluronic acid, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, as well as the protein expressions of TGF-β1 and PDGF in model group were increased significantly, while the levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were significantly reduced (P<0.01); the HE, Masson staining and transmission electron microscopy observation results showed obvious HF characteristics in rats of model group. Compared with model group, varying degrees of improvement in above indexes were observed in P. mume groups, and the above 2021BSZR011) indicators of rats in P. mume medium-dose and high-dose groups were reversed significantly (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS P. mume has an anti-HF effect, which may be achieved through mechanisms such as antioxidation, anti-inflammation, reduction of collagen production, inhibition of PDGF protein expression, and regulation of TGF- β1 signaling pathway.
4.Epidemiological characteristics of norovirus outbreaks in Haidian District, Beijing in 2016 - 2022
Li GUO ; Zhiyong GAO ; Wei CAI ; Feng LIU ; Yunping SHAO
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2025;36(1):41-44
Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of norovirus outbreaks in Haidian District, Beijing, and to provide a reference for epidemic prevention and control. Methods Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to organize and statistically analyze the norovirus outbreak data reported from 2016 to 2022. Results A total of 26 outbreaks of norovirus were reported in Haidian District, with a total of 1595 cases and an attack rate M (QR) of 8.23 (16.33)%. There were 24 cases of norovirus type GII (92.31%), 1 case of type GI (3.85%), and 1 case of mixed infection of virus type GI/GII (3.85%). The highest number of reported outbreaks occurred in March and April, with 17 cases, accounting for 65.38%. The highest number of reported cases was in November and December, with 785 cases, accounting for 44.92%. The case age M (QR) was 18 (14) years old. The detection rate of positive samples in different age groups had statistical significance(χ2=12.021, P=0.007). The 26 outbreaks were mainly distributed in collective units such as schools, preschool institutions, and enterprises and institutions. There were a total of 11 outbreaks related to foodborne transmission, with 923 cases, accounting for 57.87%. Diarrhea was positively correlated with the age of the cases (rs=0.572, P<0.001), while vomiting was negatively correlated with the age of the cases (rs=-0187, P<0.001). The time interval between the onset of acute gastroenteritis symptoms in the first case and the reporting of the epidemic was positively correlated with the duration of the epidemic (rs=0.586, P=0.002). Conclusion It is necessary to strengthen the prevention and control of norovirus in schools (primary and secondary schools and colleges), strictly implement health monitoring and regular screening for kitchen workers, carry out publicity and education, detect cases as early as possible, report the epidemic in a timely manner, and effectively reduce the scale of the epidemic and prevent its spread.
5.Effect of Wenyang Shengji Ointment (温阳生肌膏) on MGO Content and HIF-1a/VEGF Pathway in Wound Tissue of Diabetic Wound Model Rats with Yin Syndrome
Xinyu HUANG ; Li CHEN ; Yarong DING ; Jun WANG ; Shuihua FENG ; Zhongzhi ZHOU
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(4):382-389
ObjectiveTo investigate the possible mechanism of Wenyang Shengji Ointment (温阳生肌膏, WSO) in the treatment of diabetic wounds with yin syndrome. MethodsA total of 24 SD rats were randomly divided into a group (n=6) and modeling group (n=18). The modeling group rats were fed with high-fat diet for 14 days and then were injected intraperitoneally with streptozotocin to induce diabetic model. After steroid injection, full-thickness skin defects were created on the back of the rats to establish a diabetic wound with yin syndrome model. The normal group was fed with regular diet, and full-thickness skin defects were created surgically on the back of the rats. The 18 successfully modeled rats were further divided into three groups, the model group, the WSO group, and the Beifuxin (Recombinant Bovine Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Gel, BX) group, 6 rats in each group. The WSO group was given the ointment to the wound, the Beifuxin group was givne BX gel, and the normal group and model group was disinfected and treated with saline. All groups had their dressings changed once daily for 14 days. Wound healing was recorded on days 0, 3, 7, and 14, and the wound healing rate was calculated on day 3, 7, and 14. On day 14 after treatment, HE staining was performed to observe the pathological morphology of the wound tissue. Western Blot was used to detect the relative protein levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Immunofluorescence was used to measure the fluorescence intensity of HIF-1α in the wound tissue, and ELISA was used to detect the methylglyoxal (MGO) content in the wound tissue. ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group showed poor wound healing on day 3, 7, and 14, with a low wound healing rate (P<0.01). HE staining showed scab coverage on the wound, with inflammatory cell infiltration and disorganized collagen arrangement. The relative protein levels of VEGF were significantly reduced, while the relative protein levels of HIF-1α and the MGO content significantly increased (P<0.01), and the fluorescence intensity of HIF-1α was enhanced. Compared to the model group, the WSO group and Beifuxin group showed better wound healing on day 3, 7, and 14, with an increased wound healing rate (P<0.01). The wound tissue showed clear and complete epithelial structure, reduced inflammatory cells, mature granulation tissue, and organized collagen arrangement. MGO content was significantly reduced (P<0.01). The relative protein levels of HIF-1α and VEGF both significantly increased in the WSO group, while only VEGF increased in the Beifuxin group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with the Beifuxin group, the WSO group had a thicker epidermal layer, prominent collagen formation, significantly increased HIF-1α fluorescence expression, reduced MGO content in the wound tissue, and higher relative protein levels of HIF-1α (P<0.05). ConclusionWSO can reduce the accumulation of MGO in diabetic wound tissue with yin syndrome and activate the HIF-1α/VEGF pathway, which could be one of the mechanisms for promoting wound healing.
6.Ethical issues and reflections on clinical research of radiopharmaceuticals
Yonglan HU ; Li WANG ; Feng JIANG ; Jiyin ZHOU ; Zhengjun CHEN ; Jie ZHANG ; Zengrui ZHANG
Chinese Medical Ethics 2025;38(2):254-260
Radiopharmaceuticals play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, malignant tumors, central nervous system diseases, and other diseases. Under the urgent need for clinical diagnosis and treatment as well as medical development, the clinical research of radiopharmaceuticals has become a hotspot in international research. By analyzing the current situation of clinical research on radiopharmaceuticals in Europe, America, and China, the ethical issues of clinical research on radiopharmaceuticals were elaborated from four aspects, including lack of relevant laws and regulations, a higher risk of radiopharmaceuticals, dilemmas in ethical review, and insufficient radiation protection. Response principles and measures were proposed from four aspects, including improving regulations and policies, enhancing radiological protection for all parties involved in the research, strengthening ethical review, and reinforcing the training of relevant personnel, to enhance the quality and level of clinical research on radiopharmaceuticals.
7.Herbal Textual Research on Spatholobi Caulis in Famous Classical Formulas
Yajie XIANG ; Yangyang LIU ; Jian FENG ; Chun YAO ; Erwei HAO ; Wenlan LI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(6):238-248
Through consulting herbal medicine, medical books, and local chronicles from past dynasties to modern times, this paper systematically researched Spatholobi Caulis from name, origin, producing areas, harvesting, processing, usage, quality evaluation, functions and indications, providing a reference for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing Spatholobi Caulis. According to the research, Spatholobi Caulis was first recorded in the Annals of Shunning Prefecture from the Qing dynasty. It was originally a medicinal herb commonly used in Shunning, Yunnan, and was named from the red juice resembling chicken blood that flowed out after the vein was cut off. The mainstream original plants of each dynasty were Kadsura heteroclita and Spatholobus suberectus. Among them, K. heteroclita mainly focused on dispersing blood stasis and unblocking meridians, mainly treating rheumatic pain and injuries caused by falls or blows, and it is mostly used as the raw material of Jixueteng ointments. S. suberectus was commonly used as decoction pieces in decoction, which had the functions of promoting blood circulation and replenishing blood, activating meridians and collaterals, and mainly used for treating anemia, irregular menstruation, and rheumatic bone pain. The production area of Spatholobi Caulis recorded in the Qing dynasty was Yunnan. Currently, the main production area of S. suberectus is Guangxi, while the main production area of K. interior is Yunnan. In the Qing dynasty, the usage of Spatholobi Caulis was an individual prescription with other herbs before making ointments, which was usually composed of the juice of it, safflower, angelica, and glutinous rice. But in modern times, Spatholobi Caulis is mostly sliced and dried for use. The quality of Spatholobi Caulis is often determined by the number of reddish-brown concentric circles on the cut surface, with a higher number indicating better quality. Additionally, the presence of resinous secretions is also considered desirable. Based on the research findings, it is suggested that when developing famous classical formulas containing Spatholobi Caulis, the choice of the primary source should be S. suberectus or K. heteroclita, taking into consideration the therapeutic effects of the formula. It is also recommended that the latest plant classification be referenced in the next edition of Chinese Pharmacopoeia, adjusting the primary source of Kadsurae Caulis to K. heteroclita to avoid confusion caused by inconsistent original names, and the functions adjust to promote Qi circulation and relieve pain, disperse blood stasis and unblock collaterals, treating injuries caused by falls and bruises.
8.The Mechanisms of Quercetin in Improving Alzheimer’s Disease
Yu-Meng ZHANG ; Yu-Shan TIAN ; Jie LI ; Wen-Jun MU ; Chang-Feng YIN ; Huan CHEN ; Hong-Wei HOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(2):334-347
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative condition characterized by progressive cognitive decline and memory loss. As the incidence of AD continues to rise annually, researchers have shown keen interest in the active components found in natural plants and their neuroprotective effects against AD. Quercetin, a flavonol widely present in fruits and vegetables, has multiple biological effects including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. Oxidative stress plays a central role in the pathogenesis of AD, and the antioxidant properties of quercetin are essential for its neuroprotective function. Quercetin can modulate multiple signaling pathways related to AD, such as Nrf2-ARE, JNK, p38 MAPK, PON2, PI3K/Akt, and PKC, all of which are closely related to oxidative stress. Furthermore, quercetin is capable of inhibiting the aggregation of β‑amyloid protein (Aβ) and the phosphorylation of tau protein, as well as the activity of β‑secretase 1 and acetylcholinesterase, thus slowing down the progression of the disease.The review also provides insights into the pharmacokinetic properties of quercetin, including its absorption, metabolism, and excretion, as well as its bioavailability challenges and clinical applications. To improve the bioavailability and enhance the targeting of quercetin, the potential of quercetin nanomedicine delivery systems in the treatment of AD is also discussed. In summary, the multifaceted mechanisms of quercetin against AD provide a new perspective for drug development. However, translating these findings into clinical practice requires overcoming current limitations and ongoing research. In this way, its therapeutic potential in the treatment of AD can be fully utilized.
9.Research progress on the role of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment in the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma
LIAO Xinyue ; FENG Yan ; YU Li
Journal of Prevention and Treatment for Stomatological Diseases 2025;33(2):160-168
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the most common type of head and neck malignancy, has a poor prognosis owing to its high invasiveness and high rate of cervical lymph node metastasis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex microenvironment that is essential for tumor cell survival. Tumor-associated immune cell (TAIC), the main stromal cell of TME, regulates the proliferation, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), and anti-tumor immunity of OSCC. M2-tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote the invasion and metastasis of OSCC through the macrophage migration inhibitory factor/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3/interleukin (IL)-1β axis, while N2-tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) regulate the proliferation and EMT of OSCC through the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway. Meanwhile, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) accelerate the progression of OSCC by secreting IL-6, IL-10, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β; T cells promote inflammation by secreting IL-17 and inhibit inflammation-mediated tumor immune response by secreting IL-10 and TGF-β; and natural killer (NK) cells recognize and attack OSCC cells to inhibit OSCC progression. TAIC interaction network also regulates OSCC progression. M2-TAMs regulate the invasion and metastasis of OSCC by promoting T cell apoptosis through the secretion of IL-10 and programmed death-ligand (PD-L) -1, while N2-TANs inhibit T cell proliferation and cytotoxicity by secreting LOX-1 and arginase-1. MDSCs inhibit the proliferation and anti-tumor effects of CD8+ T cells through the inactivation of programmed cell death (PD)-1/PD-L1 signaling. Additionally, MDSCs inhibit the proliferation of T cells by decreasing the expression of the CD3-zeta chain and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Moreover, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and NK cells were found to be positively correlated in OSCC progression. Therefore, target regulation, related signaling pathways, and the interaction network of TAIC may serve as promising therapeutic targets in the immunotherapy of OSCC. In this review, we summarize the recent research on the effects of TAIC and their interaction network in the TME in the progression of OSCC and explore its application in the early diagnosis and treatment of OSCC
10.Effects and mechanism of paeoniflorin on oxidative stress of ulcerative colitis mice
Xin DAI ; Ying WANG ; Xinyue REN ; Dingxing FAN ; Xianzhe LI ; Jiaxuan FENG ; Shilei LOU ; Hui YAN ; Cong SUN
China Pharmacy 2025;36(4):427-433
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects and potential mechanism of paeoniflorin on oxidative stress of ulcerative colitis (UC) mice based on adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. METHODS Male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, inhibitor group (AMPK inhibitor Compound C 20 mg/kg), paeoniflorin low-, medium- and high-dose groups (paeoniflorin 12.5, 25, 50 mg/kg), high- dose of paeoniflorin+inhibitor group (paeoniflorin 50 mg/kg+Compound C 20 mg/kg), with 8 mice in each group. Except for the control group, mice in all other groups were given 4% dextran sulfate sodium solution for 5 days to establish the UC model. Subsequently, mice in each drug group were given the corresponding drug solution intragastrically or intraperitoneally, once a day, for 7 consecutive days. The changes in body weight of mice were recorded during the experiment. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, colon length, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in colon tissues were measured; histopathological morphology of colon tissues, tight junctions between intestinal epithelial cells, and histopathological scoring were all observed and evaluated; the mRNA expressions of AMPK and Nrf2, as well as the protein expressions of heme oxygenase-1(HO-1), occludin and claudin-1, were all determined in colon tissue. RESULTS Compared with model group, paeoniflorin groups exhibited recovery from pathological changes such as inflammatory cell infiltration and crypt damage in the colon tissue, as well as improved tight junction damage between intestinal epithelial cells. Additionally, significant increases or upregulations were observed in body weight, colon length, activities of SOD and GSH-Px, phosphorylation level of AMPK, and protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, occludin, claudin-1, and mRNA expressions of AMPK and Nrf2; concurrently, MDA content and histopathological scores were significantly reduced (P< 0.05 or P<0.01). In contrast, the inhibitor group showed comparable (P>0.05) or worse (P<0.05 or P<0.01) indicators compared to the model group. Conversely, the addition of AMPK inhibitor could significantly reverse the improvement of high- dose paconiflorin (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Paeoniflorin can repair intestinal epithelial cell damage in mice, improve tight junctions between epithelial cells, upregulate the expression of related proteins, and promote the expression and secretion of antioxidant-promoting molecules, thereby ameliorating UC; its mechanism may be associated with activating AMPK/Nrf2 antioxidant pathway.


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