1.Application of immune checkpoint inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutant
Zexi XU ; Huibo ZHANG ; Yao JIN ; Min PENG
Journal of International Oncology 2020;47(9):560-564
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene is one of the most common driving genes in non-small cell lung cancer patients, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been controversial in the clinical application of non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutant. The expression abundance of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is an important predictor to guide the application of ICIs, and EGFR mutations may affect PD-L1 expression in tumor cells. Recent clinical studies have pointed out that the single drug of ICIs is not effective in patients with EGFR mutation, however, the combination of ICIs combined with chemotherapy and the four drugs proposed in the IMpower150 trial show good clinical benefits. In addition, the safety of ICIs and epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) combination model needs to be further clarified.
2.New Explanation of Jichuan Decoction(济川煎)
Ning GAO ; Shujie ZAN ; Zexi ZHANG ; Xinyao JIN ; Fengwen YANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2023;64(20):2150-2152
This paper explores the interpretation of Jichuan Decoction (济川煎) by tracing its name's origin, exa-mining the original texts of herbs in the decoction within Jingyue's Complete Works(《景岳全书》), exploring the debate on the sovereign drug of Danggui (Angelica sinensis [Oliv.] Diels) and Roucongrong (Cistanche deserticola Y.C. Ma), and analyzing the historical discussions on the efficacy of the decoction. It is believed that the original meaning of the name Jichuan Decoction (济川煎) refers to its strategy for treating “deficiency constipation”, which can be described as “increasing water to navigating the boat”. Danggui (Angelica sinensis [Oliv.] Diels) is considered the sovereign herb for nourishing blood and moistening dryness, while Roucongrong (Cistanche deserticola Y.C. Ma) serves as the minister herb for moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements. It is concluded by the author that Jichuan Decoction (济川煎) does not primarily focus on warming the kidneys and assisting yang, but rather emphasizes nourishing blood, moistening dryness, and promoting bowel movements. Its main indication is constipation due to deficiency of yin and blood, which is supported by evidence from antiquarian materials.