1.Liuwei Dihuangwan Promote Mitophagy to Modulate Neuroinflammation and Behavioral Impairments in Rat Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Pengjue HUANG ; Mingyue JIANG ; Ji WU ; Niya YIN ; Lei OUYANG ; Qinquan ZHU ; Di ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(2):52-60
ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Liuwei Dihuangwan on behavioral impairments in the rat model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and explore the mechanism of action. MethodsTwelve SD pregnant rats were intraperitoneally injected with valproic acid (VPA) (10 rats) or normal saline (2 rats), and male offspring were selected to establish the model of ASD and the control rats. Rats were randomly assigned into model, low-dose (0.75 g·kg-1) and high-dose (1.5 g·kg-1) Liuwei Dihuangwan, vitamin D (positive drug, 3.7×10-5 g·kg-1), and blank groups. Each group was administrated with the corresponding concentration of drugs or the same volume of normal saline by gavage for 2 weeks. After the intervention, the three-chamber social test was conducted to evaluate social interaction and social preference. The open field test was carried out to observe spontaneous behavior and anxiety state. Hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE) was used to observe the pathological changes of the prefrontal tissue. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to observe the ultrastructure of mitochondria in prefrontal neurons. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1) in the prefrontal tissue. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was adopted to measure the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Western blot was employed to assess the expression differences of phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), phosphorylated Unc-51-like autophagy-activating kinase 1 (p-ULK1), Unc-51-like autophagy-activating kinase 1 (ULK1), and FUN14 domain-containing protein 1 (FUNDC1). ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group spent less time sniffing stranger 1 and stranger 2 in the three-chamber social test (P<0.01) and showed reductions in the total distance traveled, average speed, distance traveled in the central area, and time spent in the central area in the open field test (P<0.01). In addition, the model group showed extensive apoptosis of neurons, with shrunken nuclei and red-stained cytoplasm, and extensive necrosis of neurons in the prefrontal tissue, mitochondrial swelling, decreased matrix density, disrupted cristae, and autophagic lysosomes in neurons, increases in the rate of Iba-1 positive cells in the prefrontal area (P<0.01) and the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 (P<0.01), and down-regulation in the expression of p-AMPK/AMPK, p-ULK1/ULK1, and FUNDC1 (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, low-dose and high-dose Liuwei Dihuangwan and the vitamin D prolonged the time spent sniffing stranger 1 and stranger 2 in the three-chamber social test (P<0.05, P<0.01), increased the total distance traveled, average speed, distance traveled in the central area, and time spent in the central area in the open field test (P<0.05, P<0.01), restored the morphology of neurons in the prefrontal tissue, decreased the number of apoptotic cells, alleviated the swelling of mitochondria in neurons, increased the matrix density, mitigated the fragmentation and disorder of cristae, and increased the number of autophagosomes. Moreover, the drugs decreased the rate of Iba-1 positive cells in the prefrontal area (P<0.01), lowered the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 (P<0.01), and up-regulated the expression of p-AMPK/AMPK, p-ULK1/ULK1, and FUNDC1 (P<0.01). ConclusionLiuwei Dihuangwan ameliorate autism-like behaviors and reduce neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammatory damage in the rat model of ASD by promoting mitophagy mediated by the AMPK/ULK1/FUNDC1 pathway.
2.Mechanisms of Shenqi Wenfei Prescription in Intervening in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Rats Based on ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway
Di WU ; Mengyao SHI ; Lu ZHANG ; Tong LIU ; Jiabing TONG ; Cheng YANG ; Zegeng LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):78-87
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of Shenqi Wenfei prescription (SQWF) on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). MethodsA rat model of COPD with lung Qi deficiency was established using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) combined with cigarette smoke. Forty-eight SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, low-, medium-, and high-dose SQWF groups (2.835, 5.67, 11.34 g·kg-1), and a Yupingfeng group (1.35 g·kg-1). Drug administration began on day 29 after modeling and continued for 2 weeks. The general condition of the rats was observed, and the lung function in each group was assessed. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe pathological changes in lung tissue. The proportion of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was measured. Apoptosis in lung tissue was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) staining. The release level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in BALF was detected by a microplate assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in lung tissue were detected using fluorescent probes. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) in BALF were measured by biochemical methods. Ultrastructural changes in lung cells were observed via transmission electron microscopy. Double immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) in lung tissue. Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression of TXNIP, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), cysteinyl aspartate-specific protease-1 (Caspase-1), Caspase-1 p20, gasdermin D (GSDMD), GSDMD N-terminal active fragment (GSDMD-N), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-18 in lung tissue. Serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels were measured by ELISA. ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group showed lassitude, fatigue, tachypnea, and audible phlegm sounds, and lung function significantly declined (P0.01). Pulmonary emphysema and inflammatory cell infiltration were obvious. The level of inflammatory cells in BALF increased significantly (P0.05). The number of TUNEL-positive cells increased (P0.01). Levels of LDH, ROS, and MDA in BALF increased significantly (P0.01), while GSH and SOD activities decreased significantly (P0.01). Lung tissue cells showed irregular morphology, swollen mitochondria, disrupted cell membranes, and abundant vesicles, i.e., pyroptotic bodies. Protein levels of TXNIP, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, Caspase-1 p20, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, and IL-18 in lung tissue were significantly elevated (P0.01), and serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels also increased significantly (P0.01). Compared with the model group, each medication group showed alleviation of qi deficiency symptoms and improved lung function (P0.01). Pulmonary emphysema and inflammatory cell infiltration were reduced. Inflammatory cell levels decreased (P0.05). The number of TUNEL-positive cells decreased significantly (P0.01). Levels of LDH, ROS, and MDA decreased significantly (P0.05), while GSH and SOD activities significantly increased (P0.01). Morphological and structural damage in lung tissue was improved to varying degrees. Protein levels of TXNIP, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, Caspase-1 p20, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, and IL-18 in lung tissue significantly decreased (P0.01), and serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels also decreased significantly (P0.05). ConclusionSQWF can improve lung function and alleviate inflammatory responses in COPD rats. Its mechanism may be related to regulating the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway and inhibiting pyroptosis.
3.Mechanisms of Shenqi Wenfei Prescription in Intervening in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Rats Based on ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway
Di WU ; Mengyao SHI ; Lu ZHANG ; Tong LIU ; Jiabing TONG ; Cheng YANG ; Zegeng LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):78-87
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of Shenqi Wenfei prescription (SQWF) on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). MethodsA rat model of COPD with lung Qi deficiency was established using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) combined with cigarette smoke. Forty-eight SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, low-, medium-, and high-dose SQWF groups (2.835, 5.67, 11.34 g·kg-1), and a Yupingfeng group (1.35 g·kg-1). Drug administration began on day 29 after modeling and continued for 2 weeks. The general condition of the rats was observed, and the lung function in each group was assessed. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe pathological changes in lung tissue. The proportion of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was measured. Apoptosis in lung tissue was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) staining. The release level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in BALF was detected by a microplate assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in lung tissue were detected using fluorescent probes. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) in BALF were measured by biochemical methods. Ultrastructural changes in lung cells were observed via transmission electron microscopy. Double immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) in lung tissue. Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression of TXNIP, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), cysteinyl aspartate-specific protease-1 (Caspase-1), Caspase-1 p20, gasdermin D (GSDMD), GSDMD N-terminal active fragment (GSDMD-N), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-18 in lung tissue. Serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels were measured by ELISA. ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group showed lassitude, fatigue, tachypnea, and audible phlegm sounds, and lung function significantly declined (P0.01). Pulmonary emphysema and inflammatory cell infiltration were obvious. The level of inflammatory cells in BALF increased significantly (P0.05). The number of TUNEL-positive cells increased (P0.01). Levels of LDH, ROS, and MDA in BALF increased significantly (P0.01), while GSH and SOD activities decreased significantly (P0.01). Lung tissue cells showed irregular morphology, swollen mitochondria, disrupted cell membranes, and abundant vesicles, i.e., pyroptotic bodies. Protein levels of TXNIP, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, Caspase-1 p20, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, and IL-18 in lung tissue were significantly elevated (P0.01), and serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels also increased significantly (P0.01). Compared with the model group, each medication group showed alleviation of qi deficiency symptoms and improved lung function (P0.01). Pulmonary emphysema and inflammatory cell infiltration were reduced. Inflammatory cell levels decreased (P0.05). The number of TUNEL-positive cells decreased significantly (P0.01). Levels of LDH, ROS, and MDA decreased significantly (P0.05), while GSH and SOD activities significantly increased (P0.01). Morphological and structural damage in lung tissue was improved to varying degrees. Protein levels of TXNIP, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, Caspase-1 p20, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, and IL-18 in lung tissue significantly decreased (P0.01), and serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels also decreased significantly (P0.05). ConclusionSQWF can improve lung function and alleviate inflammatory responses in COPD rats. Its mechanism may be related to regulating the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway and inhibiting pyroptosis.
4.Efficacy Analysis of RCT of Arsenic-containing TCM Compound in Treatment of Myelodysplastic Syndrome Based on MMRM and Win Ratio
Daxiang SUN ; Peizhen JIANG ; Haixia DI ; Bing WU ; Qifeng LIU ; Jian LIU ; Jiahe LIANG ; Xudong TANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):251-259
ObjectiveThis paper aims to conduct a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial on the treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with deficiency of both the spleen and kidney and blockage of toxin and blood stasis with an arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound, by applying the mixed model for repeated measure (MMRM) and the method of stratified composite outcome with win ratio. The analysis includes the assessment of hematological efficacy and the composite outcome evaluation of adverse reactions, so as to more comprehensively assess the therapy of this regimen. MethodsThe MMRM and win ratio methods were used to evaluate the efficacy of a prospective,multi-center,double-blind,randomized controlled study. The blood routine (hemoglobin concentration,neutrophil count, and platelet count) and biochemical indexes (aspartate aminotransferase,alanine aminotransferase,serum creatinine,and serum ferritin) of the patients were detected at the time of enrollment and at the end of each course of treatment in the laboratory department of Xiyuan Hospital. The patients' syndromes at the time of enrollment and after treatment were recorded and scored according to the therapy standard of traditional Chinese medicine for diseases and syndromes. MMRM was used to analyze the blood routine indexes of the experimental group and the control group. This method has the advantages of high data reliability and dynamic efficacy under intervention and time. The win ratio method was used to evaluate the composite outcome of traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scores and biochemical indexes according to the priority and to verify the clinical safety of arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound. ResultsThe results of MMRM analysis showed that the hemoglobin concentration of patients in the group with arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound increased significantly compared with that before treatment in the group,while that in the placebo group decreased significantly (P<0.01). When compared with that after treatment in the placebo group,the hemoglobin concentration of patients in the group with arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound increased significantly,and the mean difference of least squares (LS) was statistically significant (P<0.01). When compared with those before treatment in the group,there were no statistically significant differences in the neutrophil count and platelet count in both groups. After treatment,there were no statistically significant differences in the neutrophil count, platelet count, and the mean difference of LS between the two groups. The analysis results of win ratio showed that the group with arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound had a significant advantage in the comparison of composite outcomes,with a win ratio (95% CI) of 2.01 (1.24-3.27) (P<0.01),and that the possibility of "winning" in terms of safety was 2.01 times that of the placebo group. The safety advantage of the group with arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound mainly came from the traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scores,renal function indexes, and iron reserve capacity indexes,and the number of winning times was less than that of losing times in the comparison of liver function outcomes. ConclusionThe MMRM analysis proves that the arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound can significantly improve the hemoglobin concentration of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome with refractory cytopenia and multilineage dysplasia (MDS-RCMD) of the type of deficiency of both the spleen and kidney and blockage of toxin and blood stasis. This conclusion is not interfered with by time trends and individual relationships and methodologically improves the credibility of the therapy of the arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound in treating MDS. Four outcomes are evaluated by the win ratio method,namely traditional Chinese medicine syndromes,liver function,renal function, and iron reserve capacity,proving that the arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound has the comprehensive advantages of improving the survival quality of the patients and reducing adverse reactions. The win ratio outcome provides clear comparative indexes for the evaluation of adverse reactions,making it easier for regulatory authorities,medical staff, and patients to understand the safety of the arsenic-containing traditional Chinese medicine compound in clinical application.
5.Value of three-dimensional inversion-recovery with real reconstruction sequence using an ultralong repetition time for endolymphatic hydrops
Menglong ZHAO ; Huaili JIANG ; Shujie ZHANG ; Zhuang LIU ; Kai LIU ; Di WU ; Xinsheng HUANG ; Mengsu ZENG
Chinese Journal of Clinical Medicine 2025;32(2):200-206
Objective To evaluate the value of an optimized three-dimensional inversion-recovery with real reconstruction (3D-real IR) sequence with a longer repetition time (TR, 16 000 ms) based on modulated flip angle technique in refocused imaging with extended echo train (MATRIX) in the endolymphatic hydrops (EH) imaging after intratympanic gadolinium (Gd) administration, and to compare it with a conventional 3D-real IR based on the turbo spin echo (TSE) sequence. Methods From July 2021 to November 2022, twenty-seven patients received both the conventional and optimized 3D-real IR sequences after bilateral intratympanic Gd administration. Images of the two sequences were qualitativly evaluated and compared. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and area ratio of endolymph against the total lymphatic space from the two sequences were measured and compared. Results 14(25.9%) ears with insufficient contrast for the EH diagnosis on the conventional sequence were clearly displayed on the optimized sequence. Image score, CNR and SNR of the optimized sequence were significantly higher than those of the conventional sequence (P < 0.001). The scanning time of two sequences was similar. The area ratio of endolymph against the total lymphatic space in the cochlear was significantly higher on the conventional 3D-real IR than that on the optimized 3D-real IR (P < 0.001); there was no statistical difference in the vestibule between the two sequences. Conclusions Compared with conventional sequence, optimized 3D-real IR sequence with a longer TR may be better for evaluation of EH after intratympanic Gd administration.
6.Application of three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequence using artificial intelligence-assisted compressed sensing technique in intravenous gadolinium contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of inner ear
Kai LIU ; Jian WANG ; Huaili JIANG ; Shujie ZHANG ; Di WU ; Xinsheng HUANG ; Mengsu ZENG ; Menglong ZHAO
Chinese Journal of Clinical Medicine 2025;32(2):212-217
Objective To investigate the value of artificial intelligence-assisted compressed sensing (ACS) technology for intravenous gadolinium contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the inner ear using three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (3D-FLAIR) sequence. Methods The patients received gadolinium contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging using ACS and united compressed sensing (uCS) 3D-FLAIR at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University from January to November 2024 were prospectively enrolled. The repetition time was 16 000 ms, and acquisition time was 6 min 40 s and 10 min 24 s in ACS 3D-FLAIR and uCS 3D-FLAIR, respectively. The images on the two sequences were evaluated independently by two radiologists. The image quality of the two sequences was subjectively evaluated and compared. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were compared between the two sequences. The grading consistencies using two sequences and between the two doctors were analyzed. Results There was no statistically difference in subjective score of image quality between the two sequences. SNR and CNR of the ACS 3D-FLAIR sequence were significantly higher than those of the uCS 3D-FLAIR sequence (P<0.001). The kappa values of grades of cochlear and vestibular endolymphatic hydrops were 0.942 and 0.888 using two sequences (P<0.001). The kappa values of grades of cochlear and vestibular endolymphatic hydrops using the ACS 3D-FLAIR sequence between the two doctors were 0.784 and 0.831, respectively (P<0.001); the kappa values of grades of cochlear and vestibular endolymphatic hydrops using uCS 3D-FLAIR sequence between the two doctors were 0.725 and 0.756, respectively (P<0.001). Conclusions ACS 3D-FLAIR could provide higher SNR and CNR than uCS 3D-FLAIR, and is more suitable for intravenous gadolinium contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the inner ear; the endolymphatic hydrops grades using ACS 3D-FLAIR is similar to use uCS 3D-FLAIR.
8.Herbal Textual Research on Malvae Semen in Famous Classical Formulas
Dongxue CHEN ; Yibo LIU ; Yangyang YU ; Guoshuai LYU ; Huili WU ; Xinle HAN ; Yue TAN ; Minhui LI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):252-264
The medicinal use of Malvae Semen has a long history. In this paper, by consulting the ancient materia medica, prescription, agronomy, literature and other aspects of the classics, the name, origin, evolution of scientific name, quality, harvesting and processing, functions and indications and others of Malvae Semen were systematically sorted out and verified, so as to provide a basis for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing this herb. According to the textual research, Shennong Bencaojing began to use Dongkuizi as the correct name, which was used in the past dynasties, and there were also aliases such as Kuicaizi, Huacai, and Kuizi. Through the original research, it can be seen that Kuicai is the mainstream original plant of Malvae Semen, that is, Malva verticillata var. crispa, the Alcea rosea and M. cathayensis are also used. In modern times, the seeds of Abutilon theophrasti have been passed off as Malvae Semen, while the seeds of M. verticillata var. crispa have rarely been used in medicine. And Abutili Semen has been another medicinal material with different efficacy since the collection of Newly Revised Materia Medica in the Tang dynasty. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cultivation of Kuicai has been decreasing, while A. theophrasti is more common and easy to obtain, and Abutili Semen and Malvae Semen are similar in morphology and confused, which should be corrected. In addition, Malvae Fructus is a Mongolian customary medicinal herb, which is different from the traditional use of seeds in traditional Chinese medicine. Kuicai, as an important vegetable in history, was widely cultivated and gradually shrunk after the Song dynasty, it is now mainly produced in southern provinces. The quality evaluation of Malvae Semen is better for those with dry bodies, full grain, grayish brown color, no mud, and no impurities. The harvesting is generally in the autumn and winter. After drying, it is seeded, sieved peel and impurities, mashed, or slightly stir-fried to yellow-white color with gentle fire. It is sweet, cold and slippery in nature and taste, with the main effects of laxation, diuresis, lactation and elimination of swelling. The efficacy of Abutili Semen is clearing heat and removing toxicity, promoting diuresis and removing nebula, the efficacy is quite different from that of Malvae Semen. Based on the results of textual research, it is suggested that M. verticillata var. crispa should be used as the medicinal source of Malvae Semen in the development of famous classical formulas, the corresponding processing methods should be selected according to the requirements of drug processing in the formulas, while the raw products are recommended to be used if the processing is not specified.
9.Clinical efficacy of escitalopram combined with transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation therapy for patients with major depressive disorder and its effect on plasma IL-6 and IL-10 levels
Jin LI ; Jinbo SUN ; Di WU ; Wenjun WU ; Runzhu SUN ; Shanshan XUE ; Yapeng CUI ; Huaning WANG ; Yihuan CHEN
Sichuan Mental Health 2025;38(1):7-13
BackgroundInvasive vagus nerve stimulation therapy has been approved for the adjunctive treatment of treatment-resistant depression, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), whereas the efficacy of non-invasive transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation (tcVNS) in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and its impact on plasma inflammatory factors remain unclear. ObjectiveTo observe the effect of escitaloprom combined with tcVNS on the status of depression, anxiety and sleep quality as well as the plasma levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in MDD patients, in order to provide references for the recovery and treatment of MDD patients. MethodsFrom August 21, 2019 to April 17, 2024, 45 patients who met the diagnostic criteria for MDD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) were recruited from the psychosomatic outpatient clinic of the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University. Subjects were divided into study group (n=23) and control group (n=22) using random number table method. All patients were treated with escitalopram. On this basis, study group added a 30-minute tcVNS therapy once a day for 4 weeks. While control group was given corresponding sham stimulation, and the duration of each stimulation lasted 30 seconds. Before and after 4 weeks of treatment, Hamilton Depression Scale-17 item (HAMD-17) was used to assess depressive symptoms, and HAMD-17 anxiety/somatization subfactor and insomnia subfactor were used to assess patients' anxiety/somatization symptoms and sleep quality. Levels of plasma IL-6 and IL-10 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). ResultsThe generalized estimating equation model yielded a significant time effect for HAMD-17 total score, anxiety/somatization subfactor score and insomnia subfactor score in both groups (Wald χ2=315.226, 495.481, 82.420, P<0.01). After 4 weeks of treatment, HAMD-17 total score and anxiety/somatization subfactor score of study group were lower than those of control group, with statistically significant differences (Wald χ2=4.967, 32.543, P<0.05 or 0.01), while no statistically significant difference was found in the insomnia subfactor score between two groups (Wald χ2=0.819, P=0.366). Significant time effects were reported on plasma IL-6 and IL-10 levels in both groups (Wald χ2=21.792, 5.242, P<0.05 or 0.01). Compared with baseline data, a reduction in plasma IL-6 levels was detected in both groups (Wald χ2=22.015, 6.803, P<0.01), and an increase in plasma IL-10 levels was reported in study group (Wald χ2=5.118, P=0.024) after 4 weeks of treatment. ConclusionEscitalopram combined with tcVNS therapy is effective in improving depressive symptoms, anxiety/somatization symptoms and sleep quality in patients with MDD. Additionally, it helps reduce plasma IL-6 levels and increase IL-10 levels. [Funded by Shaanxi Provincial Key Research and Development Program-General Project (number, 2023-YBSF-185), www.clinicaltrials.gov number, NCT04037111]
10.Herbal Textual Research on Malvae Semen in Famous Classical Formulas
Dongxue CHEN ; Yibo LIU ; Yangyang YU ; Guoshuai LYU ; Huili WU ; Xinle HAN ; Yue TAN ; Minhui LI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):252-264
The medicinal use of Malvae Semen has a long history. In this paper, by consulting the ancient materia medica, prescription, agronomy, literature and other aspects of the classics, the name, origin, evolution of scientific name, quality, harvesting and processing, functions and indications and others of Malvae Semen were systematically sorted out and verified, so as to provide a basis for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing this herb. According to the textual research, Shennong Bencaojing began to use Dongkuizi as the correct name, which was used in the past dynasties, and there were also aliases such as Kuicaizi, Huacai, and Kuizi. Through the original research, it can be seen that Kuicai is the mainstream original plant of Malvae Semen, that is, Malva verticillata var. crispa, the Alcea rosea and M. cathayensis are also used. In modern times, the seeds of Abutilon theophrasti have been passed off as Malvae Semen, while the seeds of M. verticillata var. crispa have rarely been used in medicine. And Abutili Semen has been another medicinal material with different efficacy since the collection of Newly Revised Materia Medica in the Tang dynasty. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cultivation of Kuicai has been decreasing, while A. theophrasti is more common and easy to obtain, and Abutili Semen and Malvae Semen are similar in morphology and confused, which should be corrected. In addition, Malvae Fructus is a Mongolian customary medicinal herb, which is different from the traditional use of seeds in traditional Chinese medicine. Kuicai, as an important vegetable in history, was widely cultivated and gradually shrunk after the Song dynasty, it is now mainly produced in southern provinces. The quality evaluation of Malvae Semen is better for those with dry bodies, full grain, grayish brown color, no mud, and no impurities. The harvesting is generally in the autumn and winter. After drying, it is seeded, sieved peel and impurities, mashed, or slightly stir-fried to yellow-white color with gentle fire. It is sweet, cold and slippery in nature and taste, with the main effects of laxation, diuresis, lactation and elimination of swelling. The efficacy of Abutili Semen is clearing heat and removing toxicity, promoting diuresis and removing nebula, the efficacy is quite different from that of Malvae Semen. Based on the results of textual research, it is suggested that M. verticillata var. crispa should be used as the medicinal source of Malvae Semen in the development of famous classical formulas, the corresponding processing methods should be selected according to the requirements of drug processing in the formulas, while the raw products are recommended to be used if the processing is not specified.

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