1.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).
2.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).
3.Effect of Astragali Radix on Gut Microbiota and GLP-1 in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Patients with Qi Deficiency Type
Keke HOU ; Lin CHEN ; Zhidan ZHANG ; Yunyi YANG ; Fangli ZHANG ; Yuanying XU ; Hongping YIN ; Lan DING ; Tao LEI ; Wenjun SHA
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(6):161-170
ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effect of Astragali Radix-mediated changes in gut microbiota on treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM). MethodsA 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial enrolled eighty patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and poor glycemic control in the Qi deficiency type. All patients received insulin therapy. The observation group (40 cases) was administered with Astragali Radix Granules, while the control group (40 cases) received a placebo. Both treamtents were taken orally twice daily. Changes in gut microbiota were assessed by 16s rDNA sequencing. Serum glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Glucose metabolism indicators including fasting blood glucose (FPG), 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2 h PG),glycated albumin(GA), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were evaluated. Pancreatic function was evaluated using fasting C-peptide (FCP), 2-hour postprandial C-peptide (2 h CP), and C-peptide area under the curve (AUCcp). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, clinical efficacy, and safety indicators were also observed. ResultsIn terms of glucose metabolism indicators, compared with the baseline, both groups exhibited significantly lower FPG, 2 h PG, GA and HbA1C (P<0.01),while FCP, 2 h CP and AUCcp were significantly higher (P<0.01). Compared with the control group after the treatment, the observation group showed significantly lower FPG, 2 h PG, GA and HbA1C(P<0.05, P<0.01),and significantly higher FCP, 2 h CP and AUCcp (P<0.05, P<0.01), indicating that Astragali Radix can improve glucose metabolism. In terms of the diversity of gut microbiota, no significant differences were detected in the Chao1, Shannon and Simpson indexes of the two groups compared with their respective baselines. However, compared with the post-treatment control group, the observation group demonstrated significant increases in the Chao1, Shannon and Simpson indexes (P<0.05, P<0.01). The β-diversity analysis showed significant separation in gut microbiota composition before and after treatment in both groups, indicating that Astragali Radix can significantly alter the structure and improve the diversity of gut microbiota. At the phylum level, compared with the baseline, both groups showed a significant increase in the relative abundance of Bacteroidota(P<0.01). The relative abundance of the potentially harmful phylum Proteobacteria was significantly lower in the observation Group after treatment (P<0.01). Compared with the post-treatment control group, the observation group had a significantly higher relative abundance of Bacteroidota(P<0.01). No significant difference was found in Firmicutes/Bacteroidota (F/B) ratio between the two groups after treatment, and other phyla showed no significant differences. At the genus level, compared with the baseline, the observation group exhibited a significant increase in Bacteroides (P<0.01) and a significant decrease in Escherichia-Shigella (P<0.01), whereas no significant difference was seen in the control group . Compared with the control group after treatment, the observation group after treatment had a significantly higher relative abundance of Bacteroides (P<0.01). No significant differences were seen in other genera. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) identified potential characteristics taxa: in the observation group, Bacteroidota at the phylum level and Bacteroides and Dubosiella at the genus level, in the control group, Proteobacteria at the phylum level as well as Barnesiella and Staphylococcus at the genus level. Correlation analysis based on a heatmap revealed that GLP-1 levels were positively correlated with Firmicutes, F/B ratio and Fusobacterium, and negatively correlated with Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria, Bacteroides and Escherichia-Shigella. In terms of clinical efficacy, compared with the control group, the total effective rate of the observation group was significantly higher (P<0.05). Compared with the baseline, the scores for shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, spontaneous sweating and reluctance to speak significantly decreased in both groups (P<0.01). Compared with the control group after treatment, the score for weakness was significantly lower in the observation group (P<0.01),indicating that Astragali Radix could improve clinical symptoms and alleviate weakness symptoms. In terms of safety, compared with the baseline, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels significantly decreased in both groups (P<0.05,P<0.01),indicating that Astragali Radix did not induce any significant abnormalities in liver and kidney functions. ConclusionAstragali Radix demonstrates the potential to significantly improve the gut microbiota environment in patients of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes with Qi deficiency. The therapeutic effect may contribute to glycemic control, possibly mediated by an elevation in GLP-1 level. These findings may support its further clinical investigations and potential applications.
4.Bali Chronic Constipation Roundtable Report: Chronic ConstipationManagement in Asia
Yi Ping REN ; Wah Loong CHAN ; Kee Huat CHUAH ; Yong Sung KIM ; Atsushi NAKAJIMA ; Sanjiv MAHADEVA ; Yeong Yeh LEE ; Andrew S B CHUA ; Tao BAI ; Ari Fahrial SYAM ; Chien-Lin CHEN ; Ching-Liang LU ; M. Masudur RAHMAN ; Tanisa PATCHARATRAKUL ; Victoria Ping Y TAN ; Dao Viet HANG ; Xiaohua HOU ; Yinglian XIAO ; Justin WU ; Uday C GHOSHAL ; Hidekazu SUZUKI ; Sutep GONLACHANVIT ; Kewin T H SIAH
Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility 2026;32(1):109-128
Background/Aims:
Chronic constipation is prevalent yet under-diagnosed across Asia, compromising quality of life and burdening healthcare systems. Cultural stigma, varied diets, and limited access to standardized diagnostic tools delay timely care.
Methods:
The Bali Chronic Constipation Roundtable in November 2024, brought together experts from 11 Asian countries. The group reviewed epidemiological data, analyzed multinational questionnaire on clinical practice pattern, and conducted structured discussions to identify key barriers and propose region-specific recommendations.
Results:
Chronic constipation prevalence varies across Asia, ranging from 1.8% in India to 16.6% in Japan, with women and the elderly disproportionately affected. Under-reporting persists owing to cultural taboos and widespread self treatment with laxatives and traditional medications. Although the Rome IV criteria remains the global standard, they may not fully reflect Asian symptom profiles, and diagnosis is limited by scarce motility laboratories. First line therapies such as dietary-fiber optimization and osmotic laxatives are widely available, but newer pharmacotherapies (prucalopride, linaclotide, lubiprostone, and elobixibat) remain costly and unevenly accessible. Biofeedback for dyssynergic defecation is underutilized due to limited availability. Experts recommend expanded regional research on to refine diagnostic criteria, coupled with enhanced physician education and public awareness. They advocate accessibility to second-line and novel therapies that incorporate culturally attuned regional guidelines, and improved access to gastrointestinal motility testing.
Conclusions
The Bali Chronic Constipation Roundtable highlighted Asia’s need for region specific diagnostics and management. Addressing diagnostic and treatment gaps will improve outcomes, while ongoing researcher clinician policy collaboration must standardize guidelines, advance research, and ensure equitable care across Asia.
5.The Impact of Pcdh15 Deficiency on Cellular Energy Metabolism and Oxidative Stress, and Its Role and Mechanism in Hearing Loss
Ying LAN ; Yang WU ; Shijie ZHAO ; Jun TANG ; Xingming LIANG ; Tao HOU ; Lu PENG ; Yongpeng LI ; Xinxing ZHAO ; Shihua YIN
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2026;19(2):129-144
Objectives:
. This study aimed to explore the role of the Pcdh15 gene in hearing maintenance and to examine the effects of its deficiency on cochlear structure, cochlear function, and hearing loss in mice.
Methods:
. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to generate Pcdh15 knockout (KO) mice. Auditory function was evaluated using hearing tests, while histological approaches were employed to assess morphological changes in cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on cochlear tissue from postnatal day 18 (P18) wild-type (WT) and Pcdh15 KO mice to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These DEGs were subjected to functional annotation and pathway analysis, with particular emphasis on oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were quantified using flow cytometry and DCFH-DA assays.
Results:
. Pcdh15 KO mice exhibited progressive sensorineural hearing loss, which worsened to profound deafness by P18. Notably, cochlear hair cells and SGNs showed substantial loss and pronounced morphological abnormalities, particularly within the basal high-frequency region. RNA-seq analysis identified 1,359 DEGs, including 1,024 downregulated and 335 upregulated genes. Pathway analysis indicated that Pcdh15 deficiency was associated with inhibition of the OXPHOS pathway, potentially disrupting mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I, III, IV, and V and thereby impairing energy production and ATP metabolism. In addition, early-stage cochleae from KO mice demonstrated elevated ROS levels and increased oxidative stress, suggesting that redox imbalance may contribute to hearing damage.
Conclusion
. Pcdh15 plays a critical role in hearing maintenance. Its deficiency is associated with severe hearing loss and marked cochlear abnormalities, which are linked to inhibition of OXPHOS, disruption of energy metabolism, and exacerbation of oxidative stress. Together, these findings provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying hearing loss and suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
6.The epidemiologic characteristics of parasitic and vector-borne diseases in Minhang and Jinshan districts, Shanghai
Dun-jia WANG ; Xiao-lu HE ; Tian-tian ZHANG ; Tang WANG ; Zhao-peng DONG ; Can-lei SONG ; Shi-ji TAO ; Zheng-xing HOU ; Yu-ping CHENG ; Yi-bin ZHOU
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(3):173-179
Objective The aim of the study is to analyze the incidence patterns and epidemiological characteristics of parasitic and vector-borne diseases in the Minhang and Jinshan districts of Shanghai, and provide evidence-based information for optimizing prevention and control measures. Methods We collected information from epidemic reports and epidemiological investigation forms for cases of parasitic and vector-borne diseases from 2005 to 2024 in Shanghai's Minhang and Jinshan districts. Descriptive epidemiological method were adopted to conduct a comparative analysis of incidence trends, epidemic characteristics, and infection sources. Results A total of 229 cases in 7 categories were reported between 2005 and 2024, with an average annual incidence rate of 0.36/100 000. The average annual incidence rate in Minhang District was significantly higher than that in Jinshan District. The most prevalent diseases were malaria and dengue fever, followed by Japanese encephalitis. Monthly case reports were available, predominantly from June to October, with a peak in July-August. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two districts in case distribution during June-October (P<0.001), whereas no significant difference was found for July-August (P=0.331). The majority of cases were young men (111/229,48.47%), aged 20-39 years. Migrant workers/farmers constituted the largest occupational group (55/229, 24.02%). Registered residents of other provinces and cities (147/229,64.19%), and the main source of infection was overseas importation (112/229,48.91%). There were no statistically significant differences in gender and household-registration composition between the two districts (P>0.05). Significant differences existed in age, occupation, and source of infection (P<0.05). The imported diseases were malaria and dengue fever, with Africa and Southeast Asia being the primary source locations. Malaria was the predominant disease imported from other provinces and cities, with cases having been imported from abroad since 2012. Local infections were mainly Japanese encephalitis, followed by malaria (with the last local case reported in 2010). Cases between 2005 and 2009 were predominantly imported from other provinces and cities. The proportion of cases imported from abroad increased sharply after 2010, particularly in Minhang District. Local infections sometimes arise in Jinshan District, with Japanese encephalitis serving as the primary type. Conclusions Incidence rates of parasitic and vector-borne diseases in Minhang and Jinshan districts have generally remained low. To further reduce this disease burden, it will be necessary to strengthen joint measures for prevention and control, eliminate the environmental risk factors of vector organisms, enhance monitoring and precise control of the environment and inbound personnel to prevent the occurrence and transmission of parasitic and vector-borne diseases.
7.Analysis on the epidemic and genetic characteristics of varicella in Fengtai District, Beijing City, 2024-2025
Yudan ZHENG ; Bei LAN ; Wanqi HOU ; Tao YAN ; Aihua LI ; Meng QIN
Chinese Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;59(7):1113-1117
This study analyzed the epidemiological characteristics and strain genotypic distribution of varicella in Fengtai District, Beijing, utilizing population-based surveillance data from March 2024 to February 2025 combined with laboratory nucleic acid detection and genotyping.We reported 522 varicella cases with male predominance (282 cases, 54.41%) and a majority aged >15 years (358 cases, 68.58%).A bimodal incidence pattern peaked in May and November, while 161 breakthrough infections (30.8%) occurred predominantly among students aged 6-20 years.The multivariate logistic regression model analysis showed that, compared to the 0-5 years age group, individuals aged 6-14 years ( OR: 2.729, 95% CI: 1.083-6.88), 15-20 years ( OR: 2.495, 95% CI: 1.158-5.378), and>20 years ( OR: 5.382, 95% CI: 2.478-11.689) exhibited progressively higher odds of oderate-to-severe rash; females demonstrated a lower risk compared to males ( OR: 0.485, 95% CI: 0.286-0.822); regarding vaccination status, recipients of one vaccine dose ( OR: 0.301, 95% CI: 0.161-0.564) and two doses ( OR: 0.203, 95% CI: 0.086-0.48) showed significantly reduced risks relative to unvaccinated individuals. Genotyping of 174 specimens identified 161 VZV-positive samples, with successful ORF22/38/62 sequencing in 142 samples confirming Clade 2 predominance (141 strains, 99.3%) and one Clade 5 strain; local isolates exhibited high vaccine-strain homology (ORF22 nucleotide:99.5%-100%, amino acid:99.3%-100%) with mutation sites partially overlapping other Chinese regions.
8.Parent-of-origin effect and its research progress in cardio-metabolic diseases
Hexiang PENG ; Mengying WANG ; Siyue WANG ; Huangda GUO ; Tianjiao HOU ; Yixin LI ; Hanyu ZHANG ; Yiqun WU ; Xueying QIN ; Jin LI ; Dafang CHEN ; Yonghua HU ; Tao WU
Chinese Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;59(9):1552-1558
Genomic imprinting refers to the phenomenon of differential expression of two alleles due to their different parental origins. Genes that produce genomic imprinting are usually called imprinted genes. The genetic effect caused by the presence of imprinted genes is called parent-of-origin effect. Parent-of-origin effect and genomic imprinting play important roles in the pathophysiological mechanism and occurrence and development of cardio-metabolic diseases. In-depth exploration of the law and potential roles of imprinted genes and parent-of-origin effects will help to better understand the mechanism of cardio-metabolic diseases, and also provide important theoretical basis for the precise treatment of diseases related to imprinted genes.
9.Ubiquitin ligase and deubiquitin enzyme in Alzheimer's disease function study
Yu-qing WANG ; Zhi-tao HOU ; Song-zhe LI ; Zhi-hua HAO ; Jing CHEN
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(3):427-433
Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a multifactorial condi-tion characterized by the accumulation of toxic proteins and asso-ciated neurodegeneration.AD is distinguished by the pathologi-cal aggregation of amyloid beta(Aβ)and Tau proteins.The in-teraction between Aβ and Tau can further induce neuroinflamma-tion,mitochondrial autophagy dysfunction,and endoplasmic retic-ulum stress,exacerbating synaptic damage and neuronal death.Neuronal cells are particularly susceptible to protein misfolding due to an imbalance between protein production and degrada-tion.The ubiquitin/26S proteasome system(UPS),a major pathway for protein degradation in eukaryotic cells,plays a cruci-al role in recognizing misfolded or damaged proteins within the nervous system.In UPS,the levels of ubiquitin are tightly regu-lated by both ubiquitin ligases(E3s)and deubiquitylases(DUBs).This article reviews the involvement and mechanisms of E3s and DUBs in the pathogenesis of AD,aiming to provide novel research strategies for its treatment.
10.Analysis on the epidemic and genetic characteristics of varicella in Fengtai District, Beijing City, 2024-2025
Yudan ZHENG ; Bei LAN ; Wanqi HOU ; Tao YAN ; Aihua LI ; Meng QIN
Chinese Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;59(7):1113-1117
This study analyzed the epidemiological characteristics and strain genotypic distribution of varicella in Fengtai District, Beijing, utilizing population-based surveillance data from March 2024 to February 2025 combined with laboratory nucleic acid detection and genotyping.We reported 522 varicella cases with male predominance (282 cases, 54.41%) and a majority aged >15 years (358 cases, 68.58%).A bimodal incidence pattern peaked in May and November, while 161 breakthrough infections (30.8%) occurred predominantly among students aged 6-20 years.The multivariate logistic regression model analysis showed that, compared to the 0-5 years age group, individuals aged 6-14 years ( OR: 2.729, 95% CI: 1.083-6.88), 15-20 years ( OR: 2.495, 95% CI: 1.158-5.378), and>20 years ( OR: 5.382, 95% CI: 2.478-11.689) exhibited progressively higher odds of oderate-to-severe rash; females demonstrated a lower risk compared to males ( OR: 0.485, 95% CI: 0.286-0.822); regarding vaccination status, recipients of one vaccine dose ( OR: 0.301, 95% CI: 0.161-0.564) and two doses ( OR: 0.203, 95% CI: 0.086-0.48) showed significantly reduced risks relative to unvaccinated individuals. Genotyping of 174 specimens identified 161 VZV-positive samples, with successful ORF22/38/62 sequencing in 142 samples confirming Clade 2 predominance (141 strains, 99.3%) and one Clade 5 strain; local isolates exhibited high vaccine-strain homology (ORF22 nucleotide:99.5%-100%, amino acid:99.3%-100%) with mutation sites partially overlapping other Chinese regions.


Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail