1.Mechanism of Guihuang Formula in Regulating NLRP3 Inflammasome-mediated Pyroptosis in Treatment of Chronic Prostatitis
Qinghe GAO ; Jianhua FU ; Shengjing LIU ; Ziwei ZHAO ; Ming ZHAO ; Boda GUO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(2):108-116
ObjectiveTo observe the mechanism of Guihuang formula in regulating the activation of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and inhibiting pyroptosis in the treatment of type Ⅲ prostatitis. Methods(1) In an animal experiment, 50 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, and low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula, with 10 rats in each group. Except for the blank group, the type Ⅲ prostatitis rat model was prepared for the other four groups.After the modeling was successful, the blank group and the model group were given normal saline intragastrically, and the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula were given intragastrically with Guihuang formula (4.9, 9.8, 19.6 g·kg-1). After 30 days of intragastrical administration, samples were taken for detection. Inflammatory cell infiltration in prostate tissue was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels were determined by biochemistry. NLRP3 expression in prostate tissue was assessed by immunohistochemistry, and the expression of NLRP3, cysteine-aspartic acid protease-1 (Caspase-1), and gasdermin D (GSDMD) in prostate tissue was measured by Western blot. (2) In a cell experiment, human normal prostate epithelial cells (RWPE-1 cells) were divided into a blank group, a model group, a Guihuang formula group, and an NLRP3 inhibitor group (MCC950 group). Except for the blank group, the other three groups were stimulated by 100 μg·L-1 lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 4 h and 5 mol·L-1 adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for 30 min to prepare the pyroptosis model. After successful modeling, blank serum was given to the blank group and the model group. 6.25 μg·mL-1 Guihuang formula drug-containing serum was added to the Guihuang formula group, and MCC950 was added to the MCC950 group on the basis of the model group. Propidium iodide (PI) uptake and Caspase-1 expression were detected by flow cytometry, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in the cell supernatant was measured by biochemistry. Interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 levels of the cell supernatant were determined by ELISA, and the expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD was detected in Western blot. Results(1) For the animal experiment, compared with the blank group, the model group showed significant infiltration of inflammatory cells in prostate tissue, while the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula showed reduced infiltration of acinar inflammatory cells, reduced degree of glandular epithelial degeneration and interstitial edema, and significantly reduced degree of damage. Compared with those in the blank group, the levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in the serum of the model group were significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula showed a significant decrease in serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels (P<0.01). Compared with that in the blank group, the serum MDA level in the model group significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with that in the model group, the MDA level in the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula was significantly reduced (P<0.01). Compared with those in the blank group, the levels of SOD and GSH-Px in the serum of the model group significantly decreased (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula showed a significantly increase in SOD (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula showed a significantly increase in GSH-Px (P<0.05). Immunohistochemistry showed that compared with the blank group, the model group had high expression of NLRP3 molecule in prostate tissue. The expression of NLRP3 in the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula was significantly lower than that in the model group. Compared with those in the blank group, the expression levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD proteins in the prostate tissue of the model group were significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with those in the model group, the expression levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD proteins in the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups of Guihuang formula were significantly inhibited (P<0.01). (2) For the cell experiment, compared with that in the blank group, the PI uptake rate of RWPE-1 cells in the model group significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with that in the model group, the PI uptake rate of the Guihuang formula group and the inhibitor group significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with that in the blank group, the expression of Caspase-1 in the model group was significantly higher (P<0.01). Compared with that in the model group, the Caspase-1 in the Guihuang formula group and the inhibitor group significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the blank group, the model group showed an increase in LDH release (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the Guihuang formula group and the inhibitor group showed a significantly decrease in LDH release (P<0.01). Compared with those in the blank group, the levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in the supernatant of the model group were significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the Guihuang formula group and the inhibitor group showed a significantly decrease in the levels of IL-1β and IL-18 (P<0.01). Compared with those in the blank group, the expression levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD proteins significantly increased in the model group (P<0.01). Compared with those in the model group, the protein expression levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD were significantly reduced in the Guihuang formula group and inhibitor group (P<0.01). ConclusionGuihuang formula can inhibit the activation of Caspase-1, prevent GSDMD cleavation and lysis, and inhibit cell pyrodeath in the treatment of type Ⅲ prostatitis by inhibiting the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome.
2.Study on the effect of apoptosis stimulation protein 2 on traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy in rabbits
Xiaoli CHEN ; Yuze MAO ; Wenhui CAI ; Haiwei WANG ; Yankun YUE
International Eye Science 2026;26(1):16-20
AIM:To investigate the effect of apoptosis stimulation protein 2(ASPP2)on the development of traumatic proliferative vitreoretinopathy(PVR)in a rabbit model.METHODS:A total of 30 New Zealand white rabbits were selected, and the right eyes of all rabbits were inflicted with a scleral penetrating wound of approximately 6 mm. Then rabbits were randomly and evenly divided into experimental and control group. The experimental group received an intravitreal injection of 0.1 mL of ARPE-19 cell suspension transfected with lentivirus-ASPP2, while the control group received an intravitreal injection of 0.1 mL of ARPE-19 cell suspension transfected with negative control lentivirus. At 1, 2, 3, and 4 wk after PVR modeling, a handheld tonometer was used to measure the intraocular pressure. Moreover, fundus photography and ocular ultrasound examination were performed to detect the retinal proliferation. At 4 wk after modeling, hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the morphological retinal changes, and Western blot was used to determine the protein expressions of ASPP2 and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)marker Vimentin in the rabbit retinas.RESULTS:At 1, 2, 3, and 4 wk after modeling, there were no significant changes in intraocular pressure within the experimental and control group of rabbit eyes, either before or after PVR modeling, the success rate of PVR modeling in the experimental group was lower than that in the control group(P<0.05), and the retinal proliferation and structural disorder was less severe in the experimental group. At 4 wk after modeling, the retinal protein expression level of ASPP2 in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group(t=3.193, P=0.033), while the Vimentin protein expression level was significantly lower in the experimental group(t=-3.599, P=0.023).CONCLUSION:ASPP2 may be involved in regulating the process of EMT in retinal pigment epithelial cells, thereby delaying the development and progression of traumatic PVR in rabbit eyes.
3.Current strategies and future directions in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration
Jian XU ; Jie WANG ; Haixin FU ; Chaopeng LI
International Eye Science 2026;26(1):56-62
Age-related macular degeneration(ARMD)is a progressive visual impairment fundus disease that frequently occurs in individuals aged >55 years. The main risk factors are aging, long-term smoking, genetics, and racial differences. Pathogenesis includes abnormal function of the retinal pigment epithelium, damaged blood-retinal barrier, and abnormal immune function. Currently, intravitreal injection(IVI)of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)drugs is the preferred treatment option for ARMD in clinical practice. However, it also faces challenges such as repeated treatments, high medical costs, and poor patient compliance. The predicament in the treatment of ARMD has given rise to several new treatment options. This article aims to review the treatment methods and progress of dry ARMD and wet ARMD, providing new ideas for addressing the limitations of the current clinical anti-VEGF treatment.
4.Advances in the correlation of dyslipidemia with meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye
International Eye Science 2026;26(1):80-85
Meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD)and dry eye disease(DED)are prevalent ocular surface disorders, with MGD being a primary cause of DED. Although multiple observational studies, systematic reviews, and Meta-analysis have found that dyslipidemia may be associated with the rising risk of DED and MGD, the mechanisms remain unclear, and these findings have been not yet fully incorporated into Chinese expert consensus on dry eye and MGD. The article begins by comparing the similarities and differences between meibum and blood lipids in terms of composition, and their age-related trends, noting that changes in meibum composition are more likely a result of MGD rather than alterations in blood lipids. Then we systematically review epidemiological evidence revealing the association between dyslipidemia and MGD/DED, delving into the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Finally, we evaluate the treatment prospects as well as controversies of lipid-lowering agents on their dual mechanisms of lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects. This review aims to systemically integrate current research findings, elucidate gaps and contradictions, and provide a theoretical foundation for future exploration of blood lipids' role in ocular surface homeostasis, thereby advancing systemic prevention and treatment strategies for DED and MGD.
5.Analysis of Toxicity Characteristics and Rational Drug Use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix
Qiongyi FU ; Yupu QI ; Yu HUAN ; Yagang SONG ; Xiangxiang WU ; Mingsan MIAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):222-231
ObjectivePolygoni Multiflori Radix is a commonly used tonic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in clinical practice, but liver injury has often been reported in recent years. Some related preparations containing Polygoni Multiflori Radix have been reported by the National Medical Products Administration many times for the risk of liver injury. This has caused extensive discussion on the potential toxicity of TCM in China and abroad, which has limited the clinical use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix to some extent. To understand the adverse reactions of Polygoni Multiflori Radix, the safe and rational use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix in clinical practice was discussed. MethodsThe pharmacovigilance thought of modern Chinese medicine and the TCM pharmacovigilance system framework of ''identification of poison, use of poison, anti-poison, and detoxification'' were employed to mine the relevant toxicity records, usage and dosage, processing compatibility, and contraindication of taking Polygoni Multiflori Radix in ancient books. The drug safety information of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was summarized by comparing with modern reports. ResultsA total of 74 ancient books related to Polygoni Multiflori Radix were included, suggesting that the toxicity of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was recognized in ancient times. The main chemical components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix had both efficacy and toxicity, and the adverse reactions may be related to long-term use, excessive use, and individual differences. The results showed that the toxic components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by peeling, steaming with black beans, and processing without iron tools. The toxic effects of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by the compatibility of Polygoni Multiflori Radix with Poria, Psoraleae Fructus, and Cistanches Herba. ConclusionReasonable dosage, standard processing, correct compatibility, and syndrome differentiation are the key points to standardize the use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix and reduce the incidence of adverse reactions. Clinically, the toxicity classification of TCM should be strengthened, and the susceptible population should be prioritized. The detection indicators and early warning mechanisms should be improved, and precise drug dosage and course of treatment should be guaranteed. These measures can ensure the safe use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix.
6.Analysis of Toxicity Characteristics and Rational Drug Use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix
Qiongyi FU ; Yupu QI ; Yu HUAN ; Yagang SONG ; Xiangxiang WU ; Mingsan MIAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):222-231
ObjectivePolygoni Multiflori Radix is a commonly used tonic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in clinical practice, but liver injury has often been reported in recent years. Some related preparations containing Polygoni Multiflori Radix have been reported by the National Medical Products Administration many times for the risk of liver injury. This has caused extensive discussion on the potential toxicity of TCM in China and abroad, which has limited the clinical use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix to some extent. To understand the adverse reactions of Polygoni Multiflori Radix, the safe and rational use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix in clinical practice was discussed. MethodsThe pharmacovigilance thought of modern Chinese medicine and the TCM pharmacovigilance system framework of ''identification of poison, use of poison, anti-poison, and detoxification'' were employed to mine the relevant toxicity records, usage and dosage, processing compatibility, and contraindication of taking Polygoni Multiflori Radix in ancient books. The drug safety information of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was summarized by comparing with modern reports. ResultsA total of 74 ancient books related to Polygoni Multiflori Radix were included, suggesting that the toxicity of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was recognized in ancient times. The main chemical components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix had both efficacy and toxicity, and the adverse reactions may be related to long-term use, excessive use, and individual differences. The results showed that the toxic components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by peeling, steaming with black beans, and processing without iron tools. The toxic effects of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by the compatibility of Polygoni Multiflori Radix with Poria, Psoraleae Fructus, and Cistanches Herba. ConclusionReasonable dosage, standard processing, correct compatibility, and syndrome differentiation are the key points to standardize the use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix and reduce the incidence of adverse reactions. Clinically, the toxicity classification of TCM should be strengthened, and the susceptible population should be prioritized. The detection indicators and early warning mechanisms should be improved, and precise drug dosage and course of treatment should be guaranteed. These measures can ensure the safe use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix.
7.Effects and mechanism of curcumin on neurological injury in neonatal rats with bacterial meningitis
Yueyun LI ; Yanrui WANG ; Yan FU
China Pharmacy 2026;37(1):17-23
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects and potential mechanism of curcumin on neurological injury in neonatal rats with bacterial meningitis based on the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1( STAT1)/ nucleotide-binding domain leucine- rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing receptor 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway. METHODS Neonatal rats, with an equal number of males and females, were randomly divided into control group, model group, curcumin low-dose (Cur-L), medium-dose (Cur- M) and high-dose (Cur-H) groups, and Cur-H+STAT1 transcription enhancer [2-(1,8-naphthyridin-2-yl)phenol] group (Cur-H+2- NP group), with 15 rats in each group. Except for the control group, rats in other groups were injected with a suspension of group B Streptococcus (1×104 cfu/mL, 10 μL) into the cerebellomedullary cistern to establish a bacterial meningitis model. After successful model establishment, rats in Cur-L, Cur-M and Cur-H groups were intraperitoneally injected with 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg/kg curcumin, respectively, and those in the Cur-H+2-NP group were intraperitoneally injected with 5 mg/kg curcumin and 0.5 mg/kg 2- NP, once a day, for 3 consecutive weeks. After the last administration, modified Loeffler score was conducted, white blood cells (WBC) count in cerebrospinal fluid as well as the contents of inflammatory factors [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β and IL-18], brain water content and blood-brain barrier permeability were detected; the histopathological changes of hippocampus and cortex tissues were observed. The percentage of apoptosis in hippocampal/cortical tissue cells, the positive expression of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1), the co-localization of Iba-1 and NLRP3, as well as the expressions of proteins related to the STAT1/NLRP3 signaling pathway (phosphorylated STAT1, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD, gasdermin D, caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18) were examined. RESULTS Compared with the control group, the neurons in the hippocampal/cortical tissues of rats in the model group exhibited significant morphological abnormalities, accompanied by neuronal edema and necrosis, as well as infiltration of inflammatory cells. The modified Loeffler score and the number of Nissl bodies were significantly decreased/reduced in the model group, while the WBC count, levels of inflammatory factors, brain water content, blood-brain barrier permeability, HE staining score, number of degenerated neurons, percentage of apoptotic cells, positive expression of Iba-1, percentage of Iba-1 and NLRP3 co-localization- positive cells, and expressions of pathway-related proteins were all significantly rose/increased/upregulated (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the histopathological changes in the hippocampal/cortical tissues of rats in all curcumin dosage groups were alleviated to varying degrees, with significant improvements in all quantitative indicators (P<0.05); conversely, 2-NP significantly reversed the ameliorative effects of curcumin on these quantitative indicators (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Curcumin can alleviate cerebral edema and blood-brain barrier damage, reduce neuroinflammation, inhibit cell apoptosis and pyroptosis, and thereby alleviate neuronal injury in neonatal rats with bacterial meningitis. The underlying mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the STAT1/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
8.Development and validation of machine learning-based in-hospital mortality predictive models for acute aortic syndrome in emergency departments
World Journal of Emergency Medicine 2026;17(1):43-49
BACKGROUND This study aims to develop and validate a machine learning-based in-hospital mortality predictive model for acute aortic syndrome (AAS) in the emergency department (ED) and to derive a simplified version suitable for rapid clinical application.
METHODS: In this multi-center retrospective cohort study, AAS patient data from three hospitals were analyzed. The modeling cohort included data from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University and the People’s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, with Peking University Third Hospital data serving as the external test set. Four machine learning algorithms—logistic regression (LR), multilayer perceptron (MLP), Gaussian naive Bayes (GNB), and random forest (RF)—were used to develop predictive models based on 34 early-accessible clinical variables. A simplified model was then derived based on five key variables (Stanford type, pericardial effusion, asymmetric peripheral arterial pulsation, decreased bowel sounds, and dyspnea) via Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression to improve ED applicability.
RESULTS: A total of 929 patients were included in the modeling cohort, and 210 were included in the external test set. Four machine learning models based on 34 clinical variables were developed, achieving internal and external validation AUCs of 0.85-0.90 and 0.73-0.85, respectively. The simplified model incorporating five key variables demonstrated internal and external validation AUCs of 0.71-0.86 and 0.75-0.78, respectively. Both models showed robust calibration and predictive stability across datasets.
CONCLUSION: Both kinds of models were built based on machine learning tools, and proved to have certain prediction performance and extrapolation.
9.Optimal Ratio of Chuanxiong Rhizoma-Carthami Flos Couplet Medicines and Its Anti-ischemic Stroke Effect
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(5):21-31
ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the optimal compatibility ratio of the Chuanxiong Rhizoma-Carthami Flos (CR-CF) couplet medicines in ischemic stroke (IS) therapy and its pharmacological action mechanism, providing a scientific basis for the clinical application of CR-CF couplet medicines in IS therapy. MethodsThe chemical composition of CR-CF was analyzed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The contents of eight characteristic chemical components in aqueous extracts of CR-CF with common clinical compatibility ratios (1∶1, 1∶2, 1∶3, 3∶2, 2∶1) were determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography(UHPLC). An oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R)-induced mouse hippocampal neuron HT22 cell injury model was established, and cells were treated with different CR-CF compatibility ratios. The collaborative index (CI) was calculated by using CompuSyn software. A cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) model of rats was induced by using the modified Longa suture method. The rats were divided into the sham group, model group, Chuanxiong Rhizoma (CR) group (1.3 g·kg-1), Carthami Flos (CF) group (3.9 g·kg-1), CR-CF group (5.2 g·kg-1), and edaravone group (5 mg·kg-1). Neuronal defect scores were assessed by the Longa scoring method. Cerebral infarction volume was measured by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride(TTC) staining. Neuronal damage was observed via hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Neuronal apoptosis of rats was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins was analyzed by Western blot. Label-free proteomics was employed to screen differentially expressed proteins, and Western blot was used to examine the expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B(PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway-related proteins. Finally, molecular docking was performed to predict the binding affinity of eight active constituents in CR-CF (1∶3) with PI3K. ResultsWhen CR-CF was combined at a 1∶3 ratio, the total content of the eight active constituents in the extract was the highest, and the synergistic protective effect on OGD/R-injured HT22 cells was the strongest (CI=0.308). Animal experiments showed that compared with the sham group, the model group exhibited increased neuroecological score points (P<0.01), larger cerebral infarction volumes (P<0.01), aggravated brain tissue damage, elevated neuronal apoptosis (P<0.01), and increased B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2)-associated X protein (Bax)/Bcl-2 and cleaved Cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-3/Cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-3 (cleaved Caspase-3/Caspase-3) ratios (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, CR-CF (1∶3) significantly reduced neurological scores (P<0.01), significantly decreased cerebral infarction volume (P<0.01), alleviated brain tissue damage, inhibited neuronal apoptosis (P<0.01), and significantly lowered the Bax/Bcl-2 and cleaved Caspase-3/Caspase-3 ratios (P<0.01). The therapeutic effect of CR-CF (1∶3) was superior to that of CR or CF alone. Proteomic analysis revealed that CR-CF (1∶3) activated the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Validation experiments demonstrated that compared with the sham group, the model group showed obviously reduced p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt ratios (P<0.05) obviously increased. Compared with the CR-CF group, the 2-(4-morpholinyl)-8-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one LY294002 inhibitor+CR-CF group exhibited obviously decreased p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt (P<0.05). Molecular docking results indicated that the active constituents of CR-CF (1∶3) had strong binding affinity with PI3K. ConclusionThe CR-CF couplet medicines at a 1∶3 ratio exhibit optimal synergistic effects, and their anti-IS mechanism is closely related to activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and inhibition of neuronal apoptosis.
10.Effect of Modified Tuoli Xiaodusan on Patients After Perianal Abscess Surgery on STAT3/VEGF Pathway
Haoyang DU ; Yuan GAO ; Haiqi FU ; Jinling HE ; Jing ZHANG ; Yangyang YU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(5):187-195
ObjectiveTo explore the clinical efficacy of oral administration of modified Tuoli Xiaodusan on postoperative patients with perianal abscess, and its effects on related inflammatory factors and signal transducers and activators of transcription protein 3 (STAT3)/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathways. MethodsFrom January 2023 to December 2023 in Inner Mongolia hospital of traditional Chinese medicine, 60 postoperative patients with perianal abscess who met the inclusion criteria were selected. They were divided into a treatment group and a control group using the random number table method, with 30 cases in each group. The control group received conventional treatment, while the treatment group received additional treatment with modified Tuoli Xiaodusan on the basis of the control group. The course of treatment in both groups was three weeks. On the day of operation and on the 7th, 14th and 21st day after operation, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure the expression levels of serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological morphology of pathological tissue. Western blot was used to measure the levels of phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) proteins, and real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) was used to determine the expression level of VEGF mRNA. The clinical efficacy of the two groups was compared according to the wound pain, secretion volume score, and healing rate of patients on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 21st day after operation. ResultsThe total effective rate of the treatment group was higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). For intra-group comparison, the pain score of the control group decreased at each time period (P<0.05), and the healing rate increased (P<0.05). The secretion volume score decreased on the 14th and 21st days after operation (P<0.05). The pain score and secretion volume score of the treatment group decreased at each time period (P<0.05), and the healing rate increased (P<0.05). The levels of various inflammatory factors decreased in both groups (P<0.05). Compared with those on the surgical day, the levels of p-STAT3 and VEGF proteins in the wound tissue of the two groups were different on the 7th and 21st days after operation (P<0.05). There were significant differences in VEGF mRNA levels in wound tissue between the two groups at each time period (P<0.01). For inter-group comparison, on the 7th and 14th days after operation, the pain score in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group. On the 7th, 14th and 21st days after operation, the secretion volume scores and healing rate of the treatment group were better than those of the control group (P<0.05). The levels of various inflammatory factors in the treatment group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05), and the decline rate was faster (P<0.05). On the 7th day after operation, the levels of p-STAT3, VEGF protein, and VEGF mRNA in the wound tissue of the treatment group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). HE staining showed that the inflammatory cell infiltration in the treatment group decreased faster. The cell arrangement was more orderly, and new blood vessel lumens were visible. There were no abnormalities in the safety observation indexes of all patients during the study period. ConclusionModified Tuoli Xiaodusan can relieve wound pain after perianal abscess surgery, reduce secretions, and improve wound healing rate. The mechanism may be reducing the levels of serum IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, reducing the inflammatory response of the wound, upregulating the expression of p-STAT3 and VEGF proteins, and stimulating the STAT3/VEGF signaling pathway, thereby accelerating angiogenesis and promoting wound healing.


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