1.Evaluation of Taraxacum mongolicum Germplasm Resources Based on Characteristic Profiles and Chemical Markers
Lantian SHI ; Xiaojie LIU ; Xiaolin LI ; Yutong HUA
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):267-275
ObjectiveBased on the established characteristic profiles, quantitative analysis of multiple components, and chemometric analysis of Taraxacum mongolicum, the quality of different T. mongolicum germplasms was evaluated at the chemical level, thereby providing a reference for the screening of high-quality germplasms and the rational utilization of wild resources. MethodsAn ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) was employed to establish characteristic profiles. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were then adopted to screen and comprehensively rank marker compounds. ResultsThe UPLC fingerprint of T. mongolicum germplasm identified 13 chromatographic peaks corresponding to gallic acid, coumaric acid, neochlorogenic acid, monocaffeoyltartaric acid, chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, cichoric acid, luteoloside, isochlorogenic acid B, isochlorogenic acid A, and isochlorogenic acid C. Combined with chemometric analysis such as PCA and PLS-DA, eight core markers (cichoric acid, luteoloside, cryptochlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid B, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, isochlorogenic acid C, and isochlorogenic acid A) were screened for distinguishing wild and cultivated germplasms. Additionally, eight core markers (cichoric acid, caffeic acid, luteoloside, chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, monocaffeoyltartaric acid, and neochlorogenic acid) were selected for the evaluation and screening of different T. mongolicum germplasms. ConclusionThis study establishes a UPLC analysis method capable of simultaneously determining 13 characteristic components in T. mongolicum, such as cichoric acid and chlorogenic acid, as well as their precursor compound contents in the biosynthetic pathway. Based on the above methods, three T. mongolicum germplasms (PGY-004, PGY-009, and PGY-010) with promising medicinal potential are selected for subsequent research on variety breeding. The present study provides a reference for quality control of Taraxacum mongolicum, germplasm screening, and the rational development and utilization of wild resources.
2.Research progress of red light therapy for dry eye and visual fatigue
Yutong XIE ; Siyu JIA ; Jiamin GAO ; Ruofan LIU ; Meiling LI ; Jiangying LI ; Xi LUO ; Xiaonan LI ; Rong YAN ; Hongbo LI
International Eye Science 2026;26(4):636-640
Dry eye disease(DED)is a common ocular surface disorder worldwide, primarily characterized by a loss of homeostasis of the tear film, and frequently associated with meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD), decreased tear film stability, ocular discomfort, and visual impairment. In recent years, factors such as the widespread use of digital devices,the aging population, and environmental changes have contributed to a significant increase in its global prevalence, making it a major public health concern. Red light therapy(RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy(LLLT)or photobiomodulation(PBM), is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes low-energy red or near-infrared light to irradiate tissues. It exerts photobiomodulatory effects to promote cellular repair and functional recovery. This therapy has demonstrated considerable potential in treating various ocular conditions. Its broader clinical application could improve therapeutic outcomes, alleviate patient discomfort and financial burden, and reduce the consumption of healthcare resources, thereby yielding significant socio-economic benefits. This paper systematically reviews the multifaceted mechanisms and application prospects of RLT in managing DED, including its anti-inflammatory effects, improvement of meibomian gland function, promotion of conjunctival goblet cell repair, and alleviation of visual fatigue, aiming to provide a theoretical foundation and practical reference for its clinical adoption.
3.Effect of Pibai Yucuo Formula (枇柏愈痤方) on Inflammatory Response in Lesional Tissue and Skin Barrier Damage in Acne Model Mice
Yunni LIU-TANG ; Yutong DENG ; Gaiying HE ; Huishang FENG ; Xuewen REN ; Yimei FANG ; Xuewan WANG ; Yatong LI ; Lingling CAI ; Yuanwen LI
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(11):1211-1219
ObjectiveTo investigate the possible mechanism of Pibai Yucuo Formula (枇柏愈痤方, PYF) in treating acne from the perspective of skin barrier damage. MethodsThirty-two mice were randomly divided into blank group, model group, minocycline group, and PYF group, with 8 mice in each group. Except for the blank group, mice were induced by intradermal injection of Cutibacterium acnes (C.acnes) combined with topical application of artificial sebum to establish acne model. The blank group and model group received intragastric administration of 0.2 ml of distilled water, while the PYF group received intragastric administration of 22.75 g/(kg·d)of PYF, and the minocycline group received 0.013 g/(kg·d)of minocycline suspension, all once daily for 5 consecutive days. On day 0 and day 6 of the experiment, the body weight of mice in each group was recorded, and the absolute value of the body weight difference during the experiment was calculated. Skin conditions were assessed with multifunctional skin imaging system on the 2nd, 4th and 6th day of the experiment. Skin barrier function indicators including transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and the water content of the stratum corneum and epidermis on day 0, 2, 4 and 6 of the experiment. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to observe stratum corneum and skin thickness on the 1st, 3rd and 5th day of the experiment. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed to observe histopathological changes, while ELISA was used to detect interleukin-17A (IL-17A) levels, and immunofluorescence staining was used to assess skin barrier-related proteins filaggrin (FLG) and loricrin (LOR) levels of skin lesions on day 6 of the experiment. ResultsCompared to the blank group, the model group showed a decrease in body weight on day 6, and an increase in the absolute value of the difference in body weight before and after the experiment (P<0.05). On day 4 and 6, TEWL values increased, while water content in the skin stratum corneum and epidermis decreased (P<0.05), accompanied by elevated IL-17A level and reduced immunofluorescence intensity of FLG and LOR proteins (P<0.05). The model group mice showed papules or pustules at the skin modeling site with progressively worsening desquamation under multifunctional skin imaging system. OCT revealed focal epidermal protrusions, blurred epidermal-dermal boundaries, and disorganized structural layers. HE staining showed significant epidermal hyperkeratosis and incomplete keratinization in the skin, with keratin plug formation in hair follicles and glandular lumens, thickened stratum corneum, hyperplasia of the stratum spinosum, as well as dense dermal inflammatory cell infiltration, and capillary dilation. Compared to the model group, both the minocycline group and the PYF group showed a reduced difference in body weight before and after experiment (P<0.05). On day 4 and 6, the TEWL value decreased, and water content of the skin stratum corneum increased (P<0.05); on day 6, the IL-17A level in the skin lesions decreased and immunofluorescence intensity of FLG and LOR proteins increased (P<0.05). On day 4 and 6, the severity of the skin lesions and range of redness and swelling were lighter than those in the model group, with reverted epidermal thickness, smoother surface and clearer epidermis-dermis boundary. HE staining showed that the degree of skin keratinization was reduced, and the inflammatory infiltration and vascular dilation in the dermis were improved compared to the model group. The PYF group showed better results than the minocycline group in reducing TEWL value on day 4 (P<0.05). ConclusionPYF may improve inflammation and skin barrier damage by downregulating IL-17A levels in lesion tissue and increasing skin barrier-related proteins, which could be one of the potential mechanism of action on acne.
4.Impact of daily diet on military training injuries among high-altitude officers and soldiers
Yutong DONG ; Maolin YANG ; Yangkai ZHANG ; Junjiang YANG ; Xiaobo LI ; Mo LI ; Chen ZHANG ; Yan RUAN ; Junlei ZHANG ; Yan HU
Journal of Army Medical University 2025;47(1):30-37
Objective To explore the characteristics of military training injuries in high-altitude troops and determine the possible impact of daily diet on these training injuries in order to provide theoretical reference for scientific training and medical service support for high-altitude troops.Methods A cross-sectional scheme was adopted in this study.A self-designed Military Training Injury Questionnaire for Plateau Troops was used to survey the officers and soldiers from resident high-altitude troops in July 2024 for their training injuries,daily diet,and other situations.The obtained data were statistically analyzed.Results Among the 3 655 participants,the incidence of military training injuries was 17.87%.The subject with highest incidence was physical training(45.94%),the most common season was winter(31.39%).The most common sites of injury were waist(28.48%),knees(22.21%),and ankles(18.07%),and the most common types were sprains(28.48%),chronic fatigue injuries(18.38%)and strains(12.25%).The intake amounts of coarse grains and potatoes,bean products,aquatic products and nuts were relatively low in the daily diet of high-altitude troops.Multivariate logistic regression analysis found intake of fruit(OR=0.625,95%CI:0.508~0.768,P<0.001)and of nut(OR=0.759,95%CI:0.654~0.879,P<0.001)were correlated with the occurrence of training injury.Conclusion The occurrence pattern of military training injuries in high-altitude troops in this survey is basically consistent with that of previous reports,but the incidence rate is slightly decreased.Regular consumption of fruit and nut may be protective factors for the occurrence of training injuries.
5.Research on the mechanism of 25-hydroxycholesterol in inflammatory bowel disease in mice
Yutong Li ; Xiaoqi Luo ; Qifa Tan ; Mingjie Chen ; Changyou Wu ; Juan Shen
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2025;60(7):1204-1212
Objective :
To explore the role and mechanism of 25-hydroxycholesterol (25-HC) in inflammatory bow- el disease (IBD) in mice.
Methods :
All mice were divided into three groups : the control group was fed normally ; the DSS model group was fed with 2. 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) solution ; the DSS + 25-HC experimental group was fed with 2. 5% DSS solution and he mice in the experimental group were intraperitoneally injected with 25-HC.The symptom changes of the mice were evaluated by assessing the disease activity index(DAI) ,and the tis- sue changes were judged by histological scoring.The expression of interleukin-17 and its signaling pathways in the mice were detected by Western blot,qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry /fluorescence,and flow cytometry.Combined with the detection of tight junction proteins in the intestinal epithelium of the mice,the mechanism by which 25-HC affects IBD in mice was explored.
Results :
In comparison to the DSS control group,The DSS + 25-HC experimen- tal group mice exhibited a reduction in body weight ( F = 30. 1,P <0. 000 1) ,a shortened colon ( F = 63. 8,P < 0. 05) ,and elevated DAI(F = 774. 5,P<0. 000 1) and histopathological scores(F = 141. 5,P<0. 05) .Addition- ally,the expression of tight junction-associated proteins(ZO-2,Occludin,JAM and Claudin-4) was found to be sig- nificantly reduced.The level of IL-17 significantly decreased,and its expression level was positively correlated with tight junction proteins.
Conclusion
25-HC inhibited IL-17 production by colonic γδ T cells through the RORγt pathway,aggravated mucosal injury,and promoted the development of DSS-induced acute colitis in mice.
6.Effect of Acupuncture Combined with Bloodletting and Cupping on the Expression of Coagulation-Complement-Mast Cell Activation Axis-Related Factors in Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria:Randomize-controlled Study
Yuzhu DU ; Yuqiang XUE ; Xiang LIU ; Yu SHI ; Hongkun LI ; Wenshan LIU ; Zan TIAN ; Yutong HU ; Yanjun WANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(2):150-156
ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with bloodletting and cupping in the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria(CSU) and to explore its potential mechanisms of action. MethodsSeventy CSU patients were randomly divided into loratadine group and acupuncture + bloodletting group, with 35 patients in each group. The loratadine group received oral loratadine tablets, 10 mg once daily in the evening. The acupuncture + bloodletting group received acupuncture at Zhongwan (CV 12), Guanyuan (CV 4), Tianshu (ST 25), Zusanli (ST 36), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Xuehai (SP 10), Quchi (LI 11), Hegu (LI 4), Taichong (LR 3), Baihui (GV 20), and Shenting (GV 24), once daily,along with bloodletting and cupping at Dazhui (GV 14) and Geshu (BL 17), every other day. Both groups were treated for 4 weeks. The 7-day urticaria activity score(UAS7) was assessed before and after the treatment, and levels of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-5 (IL-5), eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), plasma tissue factor (TF), activated factor Ⅶ (FⅦa), prothrombin fragment 1+2 (F1+2), D-dimer (D-D) and complement component 5a (C5a) were detected. ResultsA total of 65 patients were included in the final analysis, 32 in the loratadine group and 33 in the acupuncture + bloodletting group. Before treatment, there was no significant difference in UAS7 score, serum IgE, IL-4, IL-5, ECP levels, or plasma TF, FⅦa, F1+2, D-D, C5a levels between groups (P> 0.05). After treatment, both groups showed significant reductions in UAS7 score, serum IgE, IL-4, IL-5, and plasma TF, FⅦa, F1+2, D-D, and C5a levels compared to those before treatment (P<0.01). However, after treatment, there was no significant difference in UAS7 score and serum ECP, IgE, IL-4, IL-5 levels between groups (P>0.05). The acupuncture + bloodletting group showed lower plasma TF, FⅦa, F1+2, D-D and C5a levels compared to the loratadine group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). ConclusionAcupuncture combined with bloodletting and cupping can effectively improve the skin symptoms of CSU patients and reduce the levels of inflammatory factors. The potential mechanism of action may involve the regulation of the coagulation-complement-mast cell activation axis, thereby inhibiting mast cell degranulation.
7.Exploration of the Intervention Mechanism of Qingshi Anti-itch Ointment (青石止痒软膏) on Psoriasis Model Mice Based on Caspase-1/GSDMD Protein Pathway
Yatong LI ; Yuanwen LI ; Yutong DENG ; Xuewen REN ; Xuewan WANG ; Xinhui YU ; Tangyunni LIU
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(2):170-177
ObjectiveTo explore the possible action mechanism of Qingshi Anti-itch Ointment (青石止痒软膏, QAO) in the treatment of psoriasis. MethodsForty mice were randomly divided into four groups, blank group, model group, calcipotriol group and QAO group, with 10 mice in each group. Except for the blank group, psoriasis was induced by applying imiquimod cream to the dorsal skin. After modeling for 6 hours daily, the calcipotriol group and QAO group were treated with 0.5 g of calcipotriol ointment or 0.5 g of QAO, respectively, applied to the treated dorsal skin. The blank group and the model group received no treatment. The skin lesions were observed, and the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score was assessed every other day. After 7 days, Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining was performed on dorsal skin tissue to observe pathological changes. The levels of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and interleukin 18 (IL-18) were determined by enzym-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The protein levels of Caspase-1,Pro-Caspase-1, gasdermin D (GSDMD) and gasdermin-D-N (GSDMD-N) were detected by Western Blot (WB). The protein levels of GSDMD were observed by immunohistochemistry. ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group mice showed redness, erythema, and white scales on their skin, with histological observations indicating epidermal thickening, elongated spines, and infiltration of inflammatory cells. The PASI scores of the skin tissue on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 were elevated; the IOD and AOD values of GSDMD protein increased; the protein levels of Caspase-1, Pro-Caspase-1,GSDMD, GSDMD-N, and IL-1β and IL-18 were significantly elevated (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the QAO group and calcipotriol group showed lighter skin lesions; the PASI scores on day 5 and day 7 in the QAO group, and on day 3, 5, and 7 in the calcipotriol group, were reduced; the IOD and AOD values of GSDMD protein, and the protein level of Caspase-1, GSDMD, and GSDMD-N, as well as level of IL-18 and IL-1β decreased in both groups; in the calcipotriol group, Pro-Caspase-1 protein level also decreased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with the calcipotriol group, the QAO group showed slightly redder skin, more obvious thickening of the stratum corneum, and less capillary dilation; the PASI scores on day 3 and day 7 increased, while the score on day 5 was reduced; the protein level of Pro-Caspase-1, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, and the level of IL-18 and IL-1β were increased in the QAO group (P<0.05). ConclusionQAO can effectively relieve psoriasis dermatitis in mice. Its potential mechanism may be related to the regulation of the Caspase-1/GSDMD protein pathway, down-regulation of IL-18 and IL-1β levels, and alleviation of pyroptosis.
8.Treatment of IgA Nephropathy by Tonifying Kidney and Invigorating Spleen as Well as Detoxifying and Relieving Sore-throat Based on PIgR-CR1-mediated Mucosal-renal Axis
Fan LI ; Hongan WANG ; He NAN ; Mingyu HE ; Chengji CUI ; Yinping WANG ; Yutong LIU ; Shoulin ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):237-244
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the primary glomerulonephritis with the highest incidence rate in the world. It is also the main cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in China, which has brought heavy economic burden to the society and patient families. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has certain advantages in treating IgAN. In TCM, IgAN is classified into consumptive disease, hematuria, and edema categories, with the location in the kidney and involving the lung, liver, and spleen. Professor Ren Jixue, a master of TCM, believes that kidney deficiency and spleen deficiency are the root causes of IgAN, and the throat is the source of the disease. He proposed the theory of throat-kidney correlation and used the method of tonifying kidney and invigorating spleen as well as detoxifying and relieving sore-throat to treat IgAN, achieving significant therapeutic effects. Studies have shown that IgAN is closely related to mucosal immune defense. IgAN patients often experience recurrent and gradually worsening symptoms due to mucosal infections, and polymeric Ig receptor (PIgR) is an important component of mucosal defense function. The lack of PIgR leads to the accumulation of IgA molecules in the mucosal lamina propria, and the molecules enter the bloodstream in large quantities and ultimately deposit in the kidneys, causing kidney damage. Complement regulatory protein complement receptor type 1 (CR1) exists on red blood cells and glomeruli and has the function of inhibiting the activation and differentiation of B cells, clearing immune complexes, and inhibiting excessive activation of the complement system. Therefore, regulating the immune defense function through the mucosal-renal axis mediated by PIgR-CR1 will be an important target for preventing and treating IgAN. Based on the theory of throat-kidney correlation, this article explores the effects and molecular mechanisms of tonifying kidney and invigorating spleen as well as detoxifying and relieving sore-throat in preventing and treating IgAN by regulating the mucosal-kidney axis mediated by PIgR-CR1. It provides effective theoretical support and a scientific basis for TCM prevention and treatment of IgAN based on the theory of throat-kidney correlation.
9.Treatment of IgA Nephropathy by Tonifying Kidney and Invigorating Spleen as Well as Detoxifying and Relieving Sore-throat Based on PIgR-CR1-mediated Mucosal-renal Axis
Fan LI ; Hongan WANG ; He NAN ; Mingyu HE ; Chengji CUI ; Yinping WANG ; Yutong LIU ; Shoulin ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):237-244
Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the primary glomerulonephritis with the highest incidence rate in the world. It is also the main cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in China, which has brought heavy economic burden to the society and patient families. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has certain advantages in treating IgAN. In TCM, IgAN is classified into consumptive disease, hematuria, and edema categories, with the location in the kidney and involving the lung, liver, and spleen. Professor Ren Jixue, a master of TCM, believes that kidney deficiency and spleen deficiency are the root causes of IgAN, and the throat is the source of the disease. He proposed the theory of throat-kidney correlation and used the method of tonifying kidney and invigorating spleen as well as detoxifying and relieving sore-throat to treat IgAN, achieving significant therapeutic effects. Studies have shown that IgAN is closely related to mucosal immune defense. IgAN patients often experience recurrent and gradually worsening symptoms due to mucosal infections, and polymeric Ig receptor (PIgR) is an important component of mucosal defense function. The lack of PIgR leads to the accumulation of IgA molecules in the mucosal lamina propria, and the molecules enter the bloodstream in large quantities and ultimately deposit in the kidneys, causing kidney damage. Complement regulatory protein complement receptor type 1 (CR1) exists on red blood cells and glomeruli and has the function of inhibiting the activation and differentiation of B cells, clearing immune complexes, and inhibiting excessive activation of the complement system. Therefore, regulating the immune defense function through the mucosal-renal axis mediated by PIgR-CR1 will be an important target for preventing and treating IgAN. Based on the theory of throat-kidney correlation, this article explores the effects and molecular mechanisms of tonifying kidney and invigorating spleen as well as detoxifying and relieving sore-throat in preventing and treating IgAN by regulating the mucosal-kidney axis mediated by PIgR-CR1. It provides effective theoretical support and a scientific basis for TCM prevention and treatment of IgAN based on the theory of throat-kidney correlation.
10.Clinical application and research progress of anterior chamber depth in cataract surgery
International Eye Science 2025;25(9):1441-1447
The anterior chamber(AC), a space bounded anteriorly by the cornea and posteriorly by the iris and the lens in the pupillary zone, is one of the most significant parameters in the anterior segment of the eye clinically. It is closely associated with the pathogenesis, progression, and treatment of various ocular diseases. Accurate preoperative assessment and utilization of anterior chamber depth(ACD)before surgery are crucial for achieving optimal postoperative visual outcomes. The term, effective lens position(ELP), has been introduced in recent years to better describe the postoperative position of the intraocular lens(IOL). To enhance the comprehension of ACD and ELP, this review elaborates on their definitions and interrelationship. It enumerates preoperative ACD measurement methodologies and compares the applicability of different devices. Furthermore, the review synthesizes its application on IOL power calculation and ELP prediction, recommending optimized formulas such as the Kane formula for scenarios with atypical ACD. The discussion extends to the impact of abnormal ACD on postoperative visual quality and relevant intraoperative interventions, aiming to provide evidence-based references for clinical practice.


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