1.Antiasthmatic effect and mechanism of Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum herb pair on the respiratory center
Jiayu TIAN ; Tianyi YANG ; Jingen XIE ; Linlin CHEN ; Qian RAO ; Xiong XIAO ; Yongchun HOU ; Wenhong LI
China Pharmacy 2026;37(7):870-876
OBJECTIVE To preliminarily investigate the antiasthmatic effect and mechanism of Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum herb pair on the respiratory center. METHODS Male SD rats were randomly divided into blank group, model group, dexamethasone group (positive control), and Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum 2∶1, 1∶1 and 1∶2 groups. Rats in each group were administered different ratios of the herb pair decoction [all at 18 g (crude drug)/kg], dexamethasone suspension (0.5 mg/kg), or normal saline intragastrically twice daily for seven consecutive days. Forty minutes after the last administration, medicated cerebrospinal fluid was collected to determine the content of effective components entering the brain. One and a half hours after the last administration, the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) was located using a stereotaxic apparatus. Histamine phosphate (1 μL) was injected into the NTS region at a constant rate of 1 μL/min using a 10 μL microsyringe to induce excitation of the respiratory center in rats; the blank group was injected with normal saline. The contents of neurotransmitters [nerve growth factor (NGF), substance P (SP), norepinephrine (NA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and acetylcholine (Ach)] in the medulla oblongata brain tissue were detected. The mRNA expressions of neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and c-fos in the medulla oblongata, as well as the protein expressions of NK-1R, p38 MAPK, and c-fos in the NTS region, were determined. RESULTS The main active components of Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum herb pair entering the brain were ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and methylephedrine. Compared with blank group, the contents of NGF, SP, NA, 5-HT and Ach, and the relative expression levels of NK-1R, p38 MAPK, and c-fos mRNA and protein were significantly increased in the model group ( P <0.01). Compared with model group, Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum herb pair groups with different ratios significantly reduced the neurotransmitter contents and the relative expression levels of NK-1R, p38 MAPK, and c-fos mRNA and protein ( P <0.01), with the 2∶1 Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum herb pair and 1∶1 mass ratios showing relatively better effects. CONCLUSIONS Ephedrae Herba alkaloids are the main active components in affecting the function of the respiratory center. The herb pair groups with a larger proportion of Ephedrae Herba exhibit stronger effects. Ephedrae Herba-Armeniacae Semen Amarum herb pair can reduce the excitability of the respiratory center by down-regulating the expression of the NK-1R/MAPK/c-fos pathway in the NTS and decreasing the abnormal release of neurotransmitters such as NGF and SP.
2.Material Basis of Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of Bushen Tongdu Prescription Based on UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS and Network Pharmacology
Yan RONG ; Lulu JING ; Hongping HOU ; Huijun WANG ; Lihua CHEN ; Yunxin CHEN ; Liang LI ; Li LIN ; Xiaoqin LUO ; Haiyu ZHAO ; Xiaolu WEI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):152-161
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the material basis of the anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanism of action of Bushen Tongdu prescription (BSTDP). MethodsThe chemical components of BSTDP and its blood-absorbed components in vivo were systematically identified by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-linear ion trap-electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-LIT-Orbitrap-MS). Network pharmacology was employed to screen blood-absorbed bioactive components and potential targets of this formula. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of core targets was constructed to conduct enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was further utilized to verify the binding affinity between key components and targets. The inflammatory model was established and verified in vivo by using a transgenic zebrafish Tg (mpx: GFP). At three days post-fertilization (3 dpf), larvae of zebrafish were randomly assigned to blank group, model group, positive drug dexamethasone acetate group (75 μmol·L-1), and BSTDP groups with low, medium, and high doses (500, 1 000, and 2 000 mg·L-1). The distribution and quantity of neutrophils in the yolk sac region were observed under a fluorescence microscope. The mRNA expression levels of key genes in the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and inflammatory factors including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). ResultsA total of 120 chemical components were identified in BSTDP, among which 26 original components were confirmed by using serum pharmacochemical methods. A total of 227 common targets linking rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the blood-absorbed components were screened by network pharmacology. It is suggested that pseudobrucine, vomicine, sinapine, rehmannioside, cinnamyl alcohol glycoside, and methylephedrine exert anti-inflammatory effects by acting on core targets including protein kinase B1 (Akt1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), TLR4, mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA), thereby modulating multiple signaling pathways such as TLR4 and NF-κB. In vivo verification in zebrafish demonstrates that the maximum tolerable concentration of Bushen Tongdu Formula is 2 000 mg·L-1. Compared to those in the blank group, zebrafish in the model group showed a significantly higher number of neutrophils in the yolk sac region (P<0.01) and rising mRNA levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (P<0.01). Compared to that in the model group, the number of neutrophils was significantly reduced in BSTDP groups with medium and high doses, as well as the dexamethasone acetate group (P<0.05, P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the low dose group. The mRNA expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionThis paper identifies the material basis of the efficacy of BSTDP, demonstrating that the formula can exert an anti-inflammatory effect through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. The results provide scientific experimental evidence for its further clinical application.
3.Extraction,Separation and Hypoglycemic Activity Analysis of Polysaccharides from Brassica rapa
Mengyu HOU ; Ruina XU ; Qingsong LI ; Shaoxuan LI ; Xinying MA ; Yaohui YE
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):219-228
ObjectiveTo optimize the extraction method for polysaccharides from turnip(Brassica rapa), and analyze and evaluate the primary structure of the isolated and purified turnip polysaccharide fraction(BP-1) and its hypoglycemic effects in diabetic zebrafish. MethodsTaking polysaccharide yield as the evaluation index, a semi-bionic extraction method was employed. Single-factor experiments and Box-Behnken response surface methodology were used to investigate three factors of solid-to-liquid ratio, extraction time and extraction temperature, in order to optimize the extraction process. BP-1 was isolated and purified using the Sevage method and DEAE-52 cellulose column chromatography. Structural characterization of the turnip polysaccharides was performed using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry(UV), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS), Congo red assay, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR) to determine purity, monosaccharide composition, triple-helix structure, and functional groups. The microstructure of the polysaccharides was observed using scanning electron microscopy(SEM) and atomic force microscopy(AFM). Zebrafish were divided into the blank group(adding E3 medium), and BP-1-1, BP-1-10, BP-1-50, BP-1-200, BP-1-1 000 groups(adding BP-1 solutions at concentrations of 1, 10, 50, 200, 1 000 mg·L-1, respectively), and zebrafish embryos were subjected to a 96-hour exposure experiment. The maximum tolerated concentration of BP-1 in zebrafish was determined by evaluating its effects on phenotype, survival rate, malformation rate, and heart rate. Experimental animals were randomly divided into the blank group, model group, BP-1-10 group(10 mg·L-1), BP-1-50 group(50 mg·L-1), and BP-1-200 group(200 mg·L-1). The blank group was cultured in E3 medium, the model and treatment groups were induced to establish a diabetic model in 4 day-post-fertilization(dpf) zebrafish embryos using 10 g·L-1 of glucose combined with 500 µmol·L-1 of alloxan. The treatment groups received corresponding doses of BP-1 solution, while the blank and model groups received an equal volume of saline. Glucose and insulin(INS) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) kits, the effects on the liver were observed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE) histopathological sections. The mRNA expression levels of glucagon(Glucagon), insulin(Insa), and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1(PCK1) were detected with real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Real-time PCR). ResultsThe optimized extraction conditions were determined as follows:solid-to-liquid ratio of 1∶40(g·mL-1), extraction time of 66 min, and extraction temperature of 79 ℃. Under these conditions, the yield of turnip polysaccharides was (10.34±0.96)%. UV analysis indicated that BP-1 contained no proteins or nucleic acids, GC-MS analysis revealed that BP-1 consisted of six monosaccharides(arabinose, rhamnose, ribose, mannose, galactose and glucose). Congo red assay indicated that the molecular conformation did not exhibit a triple-helix structure, FT-IR analysis showed the presence of α-glycosidic bonds and uronic acids, SEM analysis revealed an irregular flaky structure with a flat and smooth surface, AFM analysis suggested that the aggregated structure might be formed by the entanglement of molecular chains and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. The maximum tolerated concentration of BP-1 in zebrafish over 96 h was determined to be 200 mg·L-1. Pharmacodynamic results showed that, compared with the blank group, the model group exhibited significantly increased glucose levels and significantly decreased INS levels(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the BP-1-50 group significantly reduced glucose levels and increased INS levels(P<0.05). Histopathological examination of liver tissue revealed that various doses of BP-1 had a certain reparative effect on damaged liver tissue. The liver tissue structure in the BP-1-200 group was nearly normal, with hepatocytes appearing plump. Real-time PCR results showed that, compared with the blank group, the model group exhibited significantly upregulated mRNA expressions of Glucagon and PCK1, and significantly downregulated mRNA expression of Insa(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the BP-1-50 and BP-1-200 groups showed significantly downregulated mRNA expressions of Glucagon and PCK1, and significantly upregulated mRNA expression of Insa(P<0.01). ConclusionThe semi-bionic extraction method for turnip polysaccharides yields a high extraction rate, is simple to operate, has low costs, making it suitable for large-scale industrial production. BP-1 consists of six monosaccharides, contains α-glycosidic bonds and uronic acids, exhibits hypoglycemic activity, and provides a certain protective effect on the liver of alloxan-induced diabetic model zebrafish.
4.Material Basis of Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of Bushen Tongdu Prescription Based on UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS and Network Pharmacology
Yan RONG ; Lulu JING ; Hongping HOU ; Huijun WANG ; Lihua CHEN ; Yunxin CHEN ; Liang LI ; Li LIN ; Xiaoqin LUO ; Haiyu ZHAO ; Xiaolu WEI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):152-161
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the material basis of the anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanism of action of Bushen Tongdu prescription (BSTDP). MethodsThe chemical components of BSTDP and its blood-absorbed components in vivo were systematically identified by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-linear ion trap-electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-LIT-Orbitrap-MS). Network pharmacology was employed to screen blood-absorbed bioactive components and potential targets of this formula. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of core targets was constructed to conduct enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was further utilized to verify the binding affinity between key components and targets. The inflammatory model was established and verified in vivo by using a transgenic zebrafish Tg (mpx: GFP). At three days post-fertilization (3 dpf), larvae of zebrafish were randomly assigned to blank group, model group, positive drug dexamethasone acetate group (75 μmol·L-1), and BSTDP groups with low, medium, and high doses (500, 1 000, and 2 000 mg·L-1). The distribution and quantity of neutrophils in the yolk sac region were observed under a fluorescence microscope. The mRNA expression levels of key genes in the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and inflammatory factors including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). ResultsA total of 120 chemical components were identified in BSTDP, among which 26 original components were confirmed by using serum pharmacochemical methods. A total of 227 common targets linking rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the blood-absorbed components were screened by network pharmacology. It is suggested that pseudobrucine, vomicine, sinapine, rehmannioside, cinnamyl alcohol glycoside, and methylephedrine exert anti-inflammatory effects by acting on core targets including protein kinase B1 (Akt1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), TLR4, mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA), thereby modulating multiple signaling pathways such as TLR4 and NF-κB. In vivo verification in zebrafish demonstrates that the maximum tolerable concentration of Bushen Tongdu Formula is 2 000 mg·L-1. Compared to those in the blank group, zebrafish in the model group showed a significantly higher number of neutrophils in the yolk sac region (P<0.01) and rising mRNA levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (P<0.01). Compared to that in the model group, the number of neutrophils was significantly reduced in BSTDP groups with medium and high doses, as well as the dexamethasone acetate group (P<0.05, P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the low dose group. The mRNA expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionThis paper identifies the material basis of the efficacy of BSTDP, demonstrating that the formula can exert an anti-inflammatory effect through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. The results provide scientific experimental evidence for its further clinical application.
5.Extraction,Separation and Hypoglycemic Activity Analysis of Polysaccharides from Brassica rapa
Mengyu HOU ; Ruina XU ; Qingsong LI ; Shaoxuan LI ; Xinying MA ; Yaohui YE
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):219-228
ObjectiveTo optimize the extraction method for polysaccharides from turnip(Brassica rapa), and analyze and evaluate the primary structure of the isolated and purified turnip polysaccharide fraction(BP-1) and its hypoglycemic effects in diabetic zebrafish. MethodsTaking polysaccharide yield as the evaluation index, a semi-bionic extraction method was employed. Single-factor experiments and Box-Behnken response surface methodology were used to investigate three factors of solid-to-liquid ratio, extraction time and extraction temperature, in order to optimize the extraction process. BP-1 was isolated and purified using the Sevage method and DEAE-52 cellulose column chromatography. Structural characterization of the turnip polysaccharides was performed using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry(UV), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS), Congo red assay, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR) to determine purity, monosaccharide composition, triple-helix structure, and functional groups. The microstructure of the polysaccharides was observed using scanning electron microscopy(SEM) and atomic force microscopy(AFM). Zebrafish were divided into the blank group(adding E3 medium), and BP-1-1, BP-1-10, BP-1-50, BP-1-200, BP-1-1 000 groups(adding BP-1 solutions at concentrations of 1, 10, 50, 200, 1 000 mg·L-1, respectively), and zebrafish embryos were subjected to a 96-hour exposure experiment. The maximum tolerated concentration of BP-1 in zebrafish was determined by evaluating its effects on phenotype, survival rate, malformation rate, and heart rate. Experimental animals were randomly divided into the blank group, model group, BP-1-10 group(10 mg·L-1), BP-1-50 group(50 mg·L-1), and BP-1-200 group(200 mg·L-1). The blank group was cultured in E3 medium, the model and treatment groups were induced to establish a diabetic model in 4 day-post-fertilization(dpf) zebrafish embryos using 10 g·L-1 of glucose combined with 500 µmol·L-1 of alloxan. The treatment groups received corresponding doses of BP-1 solution, while the blank and model groups received an equal volume of saline. Glucose and insulin(INS) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) kits, the effects on the liver were observed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE) histopathological sections. The mRNA expression levels of glucagon(Glucagon), insulin(Insa), and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1(PCK1) were detected with real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Real-time PCR). ResultsThe optimized extraction conditions were determined as follows:solid-to-liquid ratio of 1∶40(g·mL-1), extraction time of 66 min, and extraction temperature of 79 ℃. Under these conditions, the yield of turnip polysaccharides was (10.34±0.96)%. UV analysis indicated that BP-1 contained no proteins or nucleic acids, GC-MS analysis revealed that BP-1 consisted of six monosaccharides(arabinose, rhamnose, ribose, mannose, galactose and glucose). Congo red assay indicated that the molecular conformation did not exhibit a triple-helix structure, FT-IR analysis showed the presence of α-glycosidic bonds and uronic acids, SEM analysis revealed an irregular flaky structure with a flat and smooth surface, AFM analysis suggested that the aggregated structure might be formed by the entanglement of molecular chains and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. The maximum tolerated concentration of BP-1 in zebrafish over 96 h was determined to be 200 mg·L-1. Pharmacodynamic results showed that, compared with the blank group, the model group exhibited significantly increased glucose levels and significantly decreased INS levels(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the BP-1-50 group significantly reduced glucose levels and increased INS levels(P<0.05). Histopathological examination of liver tissue revealed that various doses of BP-1 had a certain reparative effect on damaged liver tissue. The liver tissue structure in the BP-1-200 group was nearly normal, with hepatocytes appearing plump. Real-time PCR results showed that, compared with the blank group, the model group exhibited significantly upregulated mRNA expressions of Glucagon and PCK1, and significantly downregulated mRNA expression of Insa(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the BP-1-50 and BP-1-200 groups showed significantly downregulated mRNA expressions of Glucagon and PCK1, and significantly upregulated mRNA expression of Insa(P<0.01). ConclusionThe semi-bionic extraction method for turnip polysaccharides yields a high extraction rate, is simple to operate, has low costs, making it suitable for large-scale industrial production. BP-1 consists of six monosaccharides, contains α-glycosidic bonds and uronic acids, exhibits hypoglycemic activity, and provides a certain protective effect on the liver of alloxan-induced diabetic model zebrafish.
6.Effects of prostaglandin E2 injection into the median preoptic nucleus on body temperature in female mice and its mechanisms
Ya LI ; Yi’an SONG ; Qiaofeng JI ; Lei XU ; Jie ZHANG ; Jianhui XU ; Xiaoyu HOU
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(2):250-257
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) microinjection into the median preoptic nucleus (MnPO) on core body temperature in female mice, and to clarify its underlying mechanism. MethodsMicroinjection cannula were implanted into the MnPO of female mice using stereotaxic surgery.Subsequently, a multi-channel temperature acquisition system was used to simultaneously monitor rectal and brown adipose tissue (BAT) temperatures before and after intra-MnPO injections of different reagents.To investigate the thermoregulatory effects of the microinjection of PGE2 into the MnPO, 12 female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into a saline group (n=6) and a PGE2 group (n=6), which were injected with 0.1 μL saline and PGE2 (2.8 mmol/L), respectively.To determine whether E-series prostaglandin receptor (EP)1, EP3, and EP4 receptors mediate the thermoregulatory effects of PGE2, 15 female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=5 per group).Mice in each group first received an injection of 0.1 μL PGE2 (2.8 mmol/L) into the MnPO. After their body temperature returned to baseline levels, they were subsequently injected with a mixture of either EP1, EP3 or EP4 antagonist (ant) (20 mmol/L) + PGE2 (2.8 mmol/L). ResultsCompared with baseline level, the rectal temperature (P<0.01) and BAT temperature (P<0.001) of female mice both increased significantly after microinjection of PGE2 into the MnPO.Compared with the saline group, the increases in rectal temperature (P<0.001) and BAT temperature (P<0.000 1) were significantly greater in the PGE2 group of mice.Furthermore, following the injection of PGE2 into MnPO, the increase in BAT temperature was found to be significantly greater than that in rectal temperature in mice (P<0.001).Compared to the administration of PGE2 alone, co-injection of an EP3 ant + PGE2 into the MnPO of mice resulted in a significantly smaller increase in both rectal temperature (P<0.001) and BAT temperature (P<0.001).In contrast, the increases in rectal and BAT temperatures following MnPO injection of either EP1 ant + PGE2 or EP4 ant + PGE2 were not statistically significant (P>0.05). ConclusionInjection of PGE2 into the MnPO elevates BAT and core body temperature in female mice via the EP3 receptor.
7.Construction of Organoid-on-a-chip and Its Applications in Biomedical Fields
Rui-Xia LIU ; Jing ZHANG ; Xiao LI ; Yi LIU ; Long HUANG ; Hong-Wei HOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):293-308
Organoid-on-a-chip technology represents a promising interdisciplinary advancement that merges two cutting-edge biomedical platforms: stem cell-derived organoids and microfluidics-based organ-on-a-chip systems. Organoids are self-organizing three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures that mimic the key structural and functional features of in vivo organs. However, traditional organoid culture systems are often static, lacking dynamic environmental cues and suffering from limitations such as batch-to-batch variability, low stability, and low throughput. Organ-on-a-chip platforms, by contrast, utilize microfluidic technologies to simulate the dynamic physiological microenvironment of human tissues and organs, enabling more controlled cell growth and differentiation. By integrating the advantages of organoids and organ-on-a-chip technologies, organoid-on-a-chip systems transcend the limitations of conventional 3D culture models, offering a more physiologically relevant and controllable in vitro platform. In organoid-on-a-chip systems, stem cells or pre-formed organoids are cultured in micro-engineered environments that mimic in vivo conditions, enabling precise control over fluid flow, mechanical forces, and biochemical cues. Specifically, these platforms employ advanced strategies including bio-inspired 3D scaffolds for structural support, precise spatial cell patterning via 3D bioprinting, and integrated biosensors for real-time monitoring of metabolic activities. These synergistic elements recreate complex extracellular matrix signals and ensure high structural fidelity. Based on structural complexity, organoid-on-a-chip systems are classified into single-organoid and multi-organoid types, forming a trajectory from unit biomimicry to systemic simulation. Single-organoid chips focus on highly biomimetic units by integrating vascular, immune, or neural functions. Multi-organoid chips simulate inter-organ crosstalk and systemic homeostasis, advancing complex disease modeling and PK/PD evaluation. This emerging technology has demonstrated broad application potential in multiple fields of biomedicine. Organoid-on-a-chip systems can recapitulate organ developmentin vitro, facilitating research in developmental biology. They mimic organ-specific physiological activities and mechanisms, showing promising applications in regenerative medicine for tissue repair or replacement. In disease modeling, they support the reconstruction of models for neurodegenerative, inflammatory, infectious, metabolic diseases, and cancers. These platforms also enable in vitro drug testing and pharmacokinetic studies (ADME). Patient-derived chips preserve genetic and pathological features, offering potential for precision medicine. Additionally, they reduce species differences in toxicology, providing human-relevant data for environmental, food, cosmetic, and drug safety assessments. Despite progress, organoid-on-a-chip systems face challenges in dynamic simulation, extracellular matrix (ECM) variability, and limited real-time 3D imaging, requiring improved materials and the integration of developmental signals. Current bottlenecks also include the high technical threshold for automation and the lack of standardized validation frameworks for regulatory adoption. Meanwhile, the concept of a “human-on-a-chip” has been proposed to mimic whole-body physiology by integrating multiple organoid modules. This approach enables systemic modeling of drug responses and toxicity, with the potential to reduce animal testing and revolutionize drug development. Future advancements in bio-responsive hydrogels and flexible biosensors will further empower these platforms to bridge the gap between bench-side research and personalized clinical interventions. In conclusion, organoid-on-a-chip technology offers a transformative in vitro model that closely recapitulates the complexity of human tissues and organ systems. It provides an unprecedented platform for advancing biomedical research, clinical translation, and pharmaceutical innovation. Continued development in biomaterials, microengineering, and analytical technologies will be essential to unlocking the full potential of this powerful tool.
8.Construction of Organoid-on-a-chip and Its Applications in Biomedical Fields
Rui-Xia LIU ; Jing ZHANG ; Xiao LI ; Yi LIU ; Long HUANG ; Hong-Wei HOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):293-308
Organoid-on-a-chip technology represents a promising interdisciplinary advancement that merges two cutting-edge biomedical platforms: stem cell-derived organoids and microfluidics-based organ-on-a-chip systems. Organoids are self-organizing three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures that mimic the key structural and functional features of in vivo organs. However, traditional organoid culture systems are often static, lacking dynamic environmental cues and suffering from limitations such as batch-to-batch variability, low stability, and low throughput. Organ-on-a-chip platforms, by contrast, utilize microfluidic technologies to simulate the dynamic physiological microenvironment of human tissues and organs, enabling more controlled cell growth and differentiation. By integrating the advantages of organoids and organ-on-a-chip technologies, organoid-on-a-chip systems transcend the limitations of conventional 3D culture models, offering a more physiologically relevant and controllable in vitro platform. In organoid-on-a-chip systems, stem cells or pre-formed organoids are cultured in micro-engineered environments that mimic in vivo conditions, enabling precise control over fluid flow, mechanical forces, and biochemical cues. Specifically, these platforms employ advanced strategies including bio-inspired 3D scaffolds for structural support, precise spatial cell patterning via 3D bioprinting, and integrated biosensors for real-time monitoring of metabolic activities. These synergistic elements recreate complex extracellular matrix signals and ensure high structural fidelity. Based on structural complexity, organoid-on-a-chip systems are classified into single-organoid and multi-organoid types, forming a trajectory from unit biomimicry to systemic simulation. Single-organoid chips focus on highly biomimetic units by integrating vascular, immune, or neural functions. Multi-organoid chips simulate inter-organ crosstalk and systemic homeostasis, advancing complex disease modeling and PK/PD evaluation. This emerging technology has demonstrated broad application potential in multiple fields of biomedicine. Organoid-on-a-chip systems can recapitulate organ developmentin vitro, facilitating research in developmental biology. They mimic organ-specific physiological activities and mechanisms, showing promising applications in regenerative medicine for tissue repair or replacement. In disease modeling, they support the reconstruction of models for neurodegenerative, inflammatory, infectious, metabolic diseases, and cancers. These platforms also enable in vitro drug testing and pharmacokinetic studies (ADME). Patient-derived chips preserve genetic and pathological features, offering potential for precision medicine. Additionally, they reduce species differences in toxicology, providing human-relevant data for environmental, food, cosmetic, and drug safety assessments. Despite progress, organoid-on-a-chip systems face challenges in dynamic simulation, extracellular matrix (ECM) variability, and limited real-time 3D imaging, requiring improved materials and the integration of developmental signals. Current bottlenecks also include the high technical threshold for automation and the lack of standardized validation frameworks for regulatory adoption. Meanwhile, the concept of a “human-on-a-chip” has been proposed to mimic whole-body physiology by integrating multiple organoid modules. This approach enables systemic modeling of drug responses and toxicity, with the potential to reduce animal testing and revolutionize drug development. Future advancements in bio-responsive hydrogels and flexible biosensors will further empower these platforms to bridge the gap between bench-side research and personalized clinical interventions. In conclusion, organoid-on-a-chip technology offers a transformative in vitro model that closely recapitulates the complexity of human tissues and organ systems. It provides an unprecedented platform for advancing biomedical research, clinical translation, and pharmaceutical innovation. Continued development in biomaterials, microengineering, and analytical technologies will be essential to unlocking the full potential of this powerful tool.
9.Differentiation and Treatment of Small Cell Lung Cancer from the Perspective of "Internal Wind in Hidden Circulation"
Shengjuan HU ; Li HOU ; Tao SUN ; Li FENG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(9):1003-1007
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is characterized by rapid onset, high invasiveness, and a strong tendency for recurrence and metastasis, which aligns with the pathogenic characteristics of wind pathogen in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This paper explores the pathological mechanism and dynamic pattern identification and treatment of SCLC from the perspective of "internal wind in hidden circulation". It is proposed that the core pathogenesis of SCLC is rooted in depletion of healthy qi, with binding of phlegm, stasis, and toxin. When pathogenic factors become excessive, the ascending and descending of yang qi becomes disordered, transforming into wind. This leads to internal wind in hidden circulation, which moves erratically and damages healthy qi. In the limited stage, cancer toxin accumulates and internal wind arises covertly, treatment for which should focus on regulating qi and resolving toxin, defending against wind and resisting pathogen with modified Bufei Decoction (补肺汤) and Shengjiang Powder (升降散). In the early extensive stage, phlegm and stasis generate wind, and internal wind spreads through collate-rals; treatment should resolve phlegm and dispel stasis, extinguish wind and resolve toxin, with modified Lingjiao Gouteng Decoction (羚角钩藤汤) combined with Tianma Gouteng Beverage (天麻钩藤饮). During the treatment stage, there is qi and yin depletion, and deficient wind harassing the interior, for which it is recommended to boost qi and nourish yin, soften the liver and extinguish wind, with modified Zhengan Xifeng Decoction (镇肝熄风汤) combined with Qingzao Jiufei Decoction (清燥救肺汤). In the progression stage, internal wind stirs again and cancer toxin scurries; treatment should focus on strengthening the healthy qi and replenishing essence, restraining wind and penetrating toxin, with modified Sanjia Fumai Decoction (三甲复脉汤). In the terminal stage, yin and yang are on the verge of dissociation and depleted yang floats upward; treatment should constrain and astringe to prevent collapse, rescue yang and contain yin, with modified Dihuang Drink (地黄饮子) combined with Laifu Decoction (来复汤).
10.Differentiation and Treatment of Small Cell Lung Cancer from the Perspective of "Internal Wind in Hidden Circulation"
Shengjuan HU ; Li HOU ; Tao SUN ; Li FENG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(9):1003-1007
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is characterized by rapid onset, high invasiveness, and a strong tendency for recurrence and metastasis, which aligns with the pathogenic characteristics of wind pathogen in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This paper explores the pathological mechanism and dynamic pattern identification and treatment of SCLC from the perspective of "internal wind in hidden circulation". It is proposed that the core pathogenesis of SCLC is rooted in depletion of healthy qi, with binding of phlegm, stasis, and toxin. When pathogenic factors become excessive, the ascending and descending of yang qi becomes disordered, transforming into wind. This leads to internal wind in hidden circulation, which moves erratically and damages healthy qi. In the limited stage, cancer toxin accumulates and internal wind arises covertly, treatment for which should focus on regulating qi and resolving toxin, defending against wind and resisting pathogen with modified Bufei Decoction (补肺汤) and Shengjiang Powder (升降散). In the early extensive stage, phlegm and stasis generate wind, and internal wind spreads through collate-rals; treatment should resolve phlegm and dispel stasis, extinguish wind and resolve toxin, with modified Lingjiao Gouteng Decoction (羚角钩藤汤) combined with Tianma Gouteng Beverage (天麻钩藤饮). During the treatment stage, there is qi and yin depletion, and deficient wind harassing the interior, for which it is recommended to boost qi and nourish yin, soften the liver and extinguish wind, with modified Zhengan Xifeng Decoction (镇肝熄风汤) combined with Qingzao Jiufei Decoction (清燥救肺汤). In the progression stage, internal wind stirs again and cancer toxin scurries; treatment should focus on strengthening the healthy qi and replenishing essence, restraining wind and penetrating toxin, with modified Sanjia Fumai Decoction (三甲复脉汤). In the terminal stage, yin and yang are on the verge of dissociation and depleted yang floats upward; treatment should constrain and astringe to prevent collapse, rescue yang and contain yin, with modified Dihuang Drink (地黄饮子) combined with Laifu Decoction (来复汤).

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