Background: Plants of the genus Achillea are widely used in both traditional and modern medicine and are known to be rich in biologically active secondary metabolites. Numerous phytochemical and histochemical studies have been con ducted on Achillea millefolium L.; however, Achillea asiatica Serg., which is widely distributed in Mongolia, remains comparatively underexplored. Therefore, investigating the distribution of biologically active compounds, the content of polyphenolic compounds, and the optimal extraction conditions of this species is of significant scientific and practical importance. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify biologically active compounds in Achillea asiatica Serg. using histochemical methods, to determine the content of polyphenolic compounds and optimal extraction conditions, and to evaluate the total and internal absorption coefficients of the plant raw material. Materials and Methods: The aerial parts of Achillea asiatica Serg. were collected in August 2025 from Erdene soum, Tuv province, Mongolia. Histochemical analysis was performed on transverse stem sections and flower petals using potassium dichromate, ferric chloride (III), methylene blue, Lugol’s iodine, and Dragendorff’s reagent, followed by ob servation under a light microscope. The total polyphenolic content was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and expressed as gallic acid equivalents. Extraction experiments were conducted using powdered plant material sieved to par ticle sizes of 1, 2, and 3 mm and extracted with 20–80% ethanol. In addition, the total and internal absorption coefficients of the plant material were determined according to standard procedures. Results: Histochemical analysis revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavo noids), and starch, while alkaloids were not detected. Polyphenolic compounds were observed in both stems and flow ers, with more pronounced accumulation in the vascular tissues. The highest total polyphenolic content (0.421%) was obtained from the 1 mm particle-size fraction extracted with 70–80% ethanol. Using 60% ethanol, the total absorption coefficient of the plant material was determined to be 5.74, and the internal absorption coefficient was 1.885. Conclution Achillea asiatica Serg. is rich in polyphenolic compounds, and their anatomical distribution is closely as sociated with the plant’s protective and biological functions. The use of 1 mm particle-size material and 70–80% ethanol was identified as the most suitable condition for extracting polyphenolic compounds. These findings provide a scientific basis for the standardization of Achillea asiatica Serg. as a medicinal and phytopharmaceutical raw material and support its further pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigation.

Background: Skin wound healing, elasticity, and protective functions are closely associated with cellular regeneration and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). MXRA7 (Matrix Remodeling Associated Protein 7) is a protein involved in ECM regulation, tissue regeneration, and inflammatory processes, and recent studies suggest that it may play a supportive role in skin wound healing. However, systematic investigations on natural small molecules capable of modulating MXRA7 activity remain limited. Flavonoids, on the other hand, have been reported to promote wound healing and ECM regulation through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it is hypothesized that flavonoid compounds may act as potential modulators of MXRA7 protein activity. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the binding affinity, binding energy, and interaction characteristics of 14 naturally occurring flavonoid compounds with the active site of the MXRA7 protein using a molecular docking approach. Materials and Methods: The molecular structures of the flavonoids were obtained from the PubChem database, and their interactions with the MXRA7 protein were investigated using molecular docking with CB-Dock2 and SwissDock software. Docking results were visualized using PyMOL and evaluated based on root mean square deviation (RMSD), binding free energy (∆G), inhibition constant (Ki), pose ranking, and cluster analysis. An RMSD value of ≤ 2.0 Å was considered indicative of a stable binding pose. Result: The RMSD values of the MXRA7–flavonoid complexes ranged from 0.081 to 0.622 Å, indicating that all compounds stably occupied the binding cavity of the protein. Fisetin (0.081 Å), naringenin (0.107 Å), and hesperetin (0.107 Å) exhibited the lowest RMSD values, suggesting highly stable binding poses. The binding free energy (∆G) values ranged from −6.0 to −7.1 kcal/mol, with protopine showing the strongest binding affinity (∆G=−7.1 kcal/mol). Most flavonoids formed hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and π–π interactions with key amino acid residues of MXRA7. Cluster analysis revealed that the majority of flavonoids shared a common binding mode, while fisetin, naringenin, and hesperetin formed a distinct subcluster with more stable binding poses. Ligand efficiency (LE) analysis indicated that chrysin, apigenin, and naringenin exhibited higher LE values, reflecting greater binding efficiency of smaller molecules. Conclusion This study demonstrates, through molecular docking analysis, that flavonoid compounds can stably interact with the active site of the MXRA7 protein. Protopine showed the strongest binding energy, whereas fisetin, naringenin, and hesperetin exhibited superior binding pose stability. These compounds may serve as potential bioactive molecules targeting MXRA7; however, further validation through molecular dynamics simulations and experimental studies is required.

Background: Skin diseases are highly prevalent worldwide. Although plant-derived medicinal materials continue to be used among Mongolians for the traditional and household management of dermatological conditions, studies that systematically quantify their frequency of use, informant consensus, and cultural significance remain limited. Aim: To determine the traditional knowledge, patterns of use, and cultural significance of plant-derived medicinal materials used for dermatological conditions among residents of Ulaanbaatar using quantitative ethnobotanical indices. Materials and Methods: Information was collected on the diversity of plant species used for dermatological conditions, modes and frequency of use, perceived effectiveness, adverse effects, and methods of preparation and processing. The collected data were evaluated using quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including the Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Fidelity Level (FL), Relative Popularity Level (RPL), Rank Order Priority (ROP), Cultural Importance Index (CII), Jaccard Index (JI), and Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (SDI). Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel 2016. The study was conducted with the approval of the Research Ethics Review Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (Approval Protocol No. 25-06/03-03 and Ethical Opinion Protocol No. 26/03-B02). Result: A total of 73 plant species belonging to 36 families were documented, with species from the Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Apiaceae, and Liliaceae families being predominant. Regarding modes of use, 29.6% of the remedies were prepared as infusions or decoctions and applied as washes or topical applications, 18.9% involved the direct application of plant juice, and 18.1% were applied as mashed plant material or poultices. Aloe barbadensis showed the highest ethnobotanical importance, with UV= 0.19, RFC=0.128, CII=0.19, RPL=1.00, and ROP=100. Nugaraa altan tovch, Gobi thyme, yashilduu sea buckthorn, and greater plantain were also highly ranked. The Informant Consensus Factor was highest for thermal burns (ICF=0.82), followed by open wounds (ICF=0.77) and pustular acne (ICF=0.76). Eighteen species overlapped with the 126 medicinal materials recorded in traditional medicinal prescriptions, yielding a Jaccard Index of JI=10%. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was H′=3.4184, with an evenness value of E=0.7967. Among the informants, 40.8% reported a reduction in symptoms, while 61.9% reported no adverse effects associated with the use of plant-derived medicinal materials. Conclusion 1. Among residents of Ulaanbaatar, information was documented on the use of 73 plant species belonging to 36 families for skin diseases. Knowledge of these plants was transmitted mainly within families, and topical methods of use, including washing with herbal infusions, rinsing, and direct application of expressed plant juice, were predominant. 2. According to the quantitative ethnobotanical indices, Aloe vera showed the highest values for use, citation frequency, and cultural importance. Matricaria chamomilla L., Thymus gobicus Tschern., Hippophae rhamnoides L., and Plantago major L. also ranked highly. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values were observed for thermal burns, open skin wounds, and acne vulgaris.

Background: High-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) is the reference standard for the assessment of esophageal motor function and classification of esophageal motility disorders. HREM was introduced into clinical practice in Mongolia in 2022; however, the spectrum of manometric diagnoses and factors associated with major esophageal motility disorders in this population have not been systematically characterized. Aim: To characterize major esophageal motility disorders among adults undergoing HREM and to identify clinical factors independently associated with these disorders. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study included 1,033 adults who underwent HREM at Intermed Hospital between September 2022 and March 2026. Manometric studies were interpreted according to the Chicago Classification version 4.0 (CCv4.0). Major esophageal motility disorders were defined as achalasia, manometric esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO), distal esophageal spasm, hypercontractile esophagus, and absent contractility. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with major motility disorders. Result: Major esophageal motility disorders were identified in 112 patients (11.2%). Compared with patients with normal motility or ineffective esophageal motility, those with major motility disorders had a significantly lower mean body mass index (BMI) (24.7±4.9 vs. 27.5±4.2 kg/m; p<0.001) and a higher prevalence of dysphagia (50.5% vs. 21.3%; p<0.001) and referral for suspected esophageal motility disorders (70.5% vs. 25.2%; p<0.001). In multivariable analysis, older age per 10-year increment (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12–1.61), lower BMI (aOR per 1-kg/m increase, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.85–0.95), dysphagia (aOR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.20–3.15), and referral for suspected motility disorders (aOR, 5.47; 95% CI, 3.22–9.31) were independently associated with major esophageal motility disorders. Conclusion 1. Major esophageal motility disorders were identified in 11.2% of adults undergoing HREM in this clinical cohort. 2. Referral for suspected motility disorders was the strongest clinical correlate, while older age, lower BMI, and dysphagia were also independently associated with major motility disorders.

Background: Panzerina lanata (L.) is widely distributed across various ecosystems in the mountain, steppe, and Gobi regions of Mongolia and has traditionally been used in folk medicine to alleviate joint and muscle inflammation, reduce liver heat, lower blood pressure, promote diuresis, and treat edema and tumors. Its similar applications in Mongolian and Chinese traditional medicine suggest considerable therapeutic potential and biological activity. Studies conducted since 2019 have reported that P.lanata (L.) is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant-active constituents; however, studies on the microscopic and histochemical characteristics of the species growing under Mongolian conditions remain limited, providing the rationale for this study. Aim: To characterize the microscopic features of Panzerina lanata (L.), determine the distribution of starch, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds using histochemical methods, and evaluate the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: For microscopic analysis, plant materials were softened by soaking for 24 h in a 1:1:1 water–ethanol–glycerin mixture (Strich–Fleming solution), followed by preparation of manual transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems, roots, and petals. A 10% chloral hydrate solution was used for clearing. Histochemical analyses were performed using potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), ferric chloride (FeCl₃), Lugol’s solution (I₂/KI), thymol (C₁₀H₁₄O) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), methylene blue (C₁₆H₁₈ClN₃S), and Dragendorff’s reagent. The prepared sections were cleared with glycerin and examined under an Olympus light microscope at ×40 and ×100 magnifications, with images documented using a 12-MP camera. Result: Microscopic examination of the roots, stems, and petals revealed that the root stele exhibited a polyarchy arrangement, with clearly differentiated xylem, phloem, and cambial tissues in both transverse and longitudinal sections. Scalariform tracheary elements in the xylem contributed to water and mineral transport and mechanical support. The stem xylem contained both spiral and scalariform tracheary elements. The petals consisted of cells with double walls and single nuclei, while the floral seed tissue was composed of meristematic tissue associated with continuous cell division, growth, and tissue differentiation. Histochemical analysis of transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems and roots, as well as petal sections, revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavonoids), and starch. Conclusion Microscopic, histochemical, and phytochemical analyses of Panzerina lanata (L.) revealed the presence of biologically active compounds, indicating its potential for use in the quality evaluation of medicinal plant raw materials.

Background: Numerous experimental and clinical studies have investigated the therapeutic potential of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn., mainly attributing its biological activities to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and hepatoprotective effects. In particular, silymarin has been reported to exert hepatoprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress, protecting cell membranes from certain toxic insults, and modulating protein synthesis. Therefore, cultivation of S. marianum and utilization of its seeds for industrial and research purposes are important for establishing a sustainable source of pharmacologically valuable bioactive compounds and increasing the availability of high-quality medicinal plant material. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of cultivating S. marianum from seeds and to determine seed germination, seedling growth and development, survival after transplantation to open-field conditions, phenological stages, and seed yield characteristics. Materials and Methods: Seeds of S. marianum were germinated under indoor conditions, and normally developed seedlings were subsequently raised in a greenhouse and transplanted to a cultivation site near Tamgan Öndör, Erdene sum, Töv Province, Mongolia. Germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), seedling growth based on morphometric parameters, and survival rate after transplantation were evaluated. At harvest, the number and diameter of capitula, seed weight per plant, 1000-seed weight, and seed yield per unit area were determined. Data were expressed as mean±SD, and statistical significance was evaluated at p < 0.05. Result: Of the 1,000 seeds sown, 852 germinated, resulting in a germination percentage of 85.2% and a mean germination time of 11 days. Under greenhouse conditions, plant height increased from 1.0 to 3.0 cm, while rosette diameter increased from 1.2 to 7.0 cm. Of the 452 seedlings transplanted to the open field, 353 survived, corresponding to a survival rate of 78.1%. The first flowering was observed on June 12, full flowering on July 9, and full seed maturation on August 30, with 175 days from sowing to seed maturity. On average, each plant produced 18 branches and 20 capitula, with a capitulum diameter of 4.4 cm, seed weight per plant of 15.5 g, 1000-seed weight of 11.5 g, and seed yield of 195.325 kg/ha. Conclusion S. marianum was able to germinate, establish, complete its major growth, flowering, and seed maturation stages, and produce seeds under the cultivation conditions of the Tamgan Öndör area, Erdene sum, Töv Province. These findings indicate that S. marianum can potentially be cultivated in this specific area as a source of medicinal plant material.

Background: Bioactive compounds derived from plants have been extensively studied and widely applied in cosmetic and dermatological fields. In particular, plant-derived polyphenols and anthraquinones are known for their antioxidant properties as well as their ability to inhibit elastase enzyme activity. Elastase is a key proteolytic enzyme responsible for degrading elastin, a structural protein essential for maintaining skin elasticity. Excessive elastase activity contributes to skin aging and wrinkle formation. Therefore, the identification of plant-derived compounds capable of interacting with elastase is of significant importance for improving the composition and efficacy of cosmetic products. Aim: To identify bioactive compounds in the extract of Rheum undulatum L. and to investigate their interaction with elastase enzyme activity. Materials and Methods: The root of Rheum undulatum L. was used as the study material. Sample preparation was performed by grinding the plant root followed by extraction using 50% ethanol assisted by an ultrasonic water bath. The obtained extract was evaporated to dryness using a vacuum centrifugation system to remove the solvent completely. A total of 10 mg of the dried extract was dissolved in 100 µL methanol and 900 µL water, then filtered through a 0.1 µm membrane filter. Subsequently, two sample sets were prepared: a control sample and an elastase-incubated sample at a 1:1 ratio. Both were analyzed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Data processing was performed using Agilent MassHunter Qualitative Analysis software (version 10.0). Results: LC-MS analysis revealed a total of 16 bioactive compounds in the root extract of Rheum undulatum L. Comparative analysis between the control and elastase-treated samples demonstrated a decrease in the peak areas of gluconic acid and citric acid, while an increase in the peak area of emodin was observed. These changes indicate compositional differences between the two sample conditions. Conclusion The LC-MS analysis of Rheum undulatum L. root extract identified multiple bioactive compounds belonging to anthraquinone, phenolic, and flavonoid classes. Variations in peak intensities between control and elastase-treated samples suggest potential interactions between certain compounds and the enzyme. These findings indicate that the root extract contains biologically active constituents capable of modulating elastase activity, supporting its potential application in anti-aging and cosmetic formulations.

Background: In contemporary clinical practice, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is classified into four phenotypes based on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring: erosive reflux disease (ERD), non-erosive reflux disease (NERD), reflux hypersensitivity (RH), and functional heartburn (FH). Although the prevalence of GERD in Mongolia is high, and certain chronophysiological aspects have been investigated, there remains a significant lack of data regarding GERD phenotypic classification and physiological diagnostic evaluation using impedance-pH monitoring. This knowledge gap provided the rationale for conducting the present study. Aim: To determine the prevalence of GERD phenotypes among adults presenting with heartburn symptoms and to compare selected manometric and pH-impedance parameters among phenotype groups. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed data from 347 adults who presented to Intermed Hospital between 2022 and 2025 with heartburn symptoms and underwent 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Among the study population, 193 patients (55.6%) were diagnosed with ERD, 34 (9.8%) with NERD, 73 (21.0%) with RH, and 47 (13.5%) with FH. Significant differences were observed among the groups in body mass index (BMI), esophageal acid exposure, total reflux episodes, reflux characteristics, and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI). Type III esophagogastric junction morphology was identified in 78.76% of the ERD group, 64.7% of the NERD group, 56.2% of the RH group, and 42.6% of the FH group, demonstrating statistically significant intergroup differences. Conclusion ERD was the predominant GERD phenotype among adults with heartburn symptoms, followed by RH, FH, and NERD. Significant differences among GERD phenotypes were observed in BMI, total reflux burden, reflux characteristics, esophageal nocturnal baseline impedance, and esophagogastric junction morphology.

Background: Histopathological examination of skin tissue plays an important role in the diagnosis of dermatological diseases; however, data on surgically excised skin specimens remain limited in Mongolia. Aim: To classify benign and malignant tumors based on histopathological findings of surgically excised skin tissue specimens, determine surgical margin status, and evaluate the age and sex distribution of these conditions. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted using data on surgically excised tissue specimens collected in the outpatient department of the National Dermatology Center between January 2023 and March 2026. A total of 361 patients were identified. Four cases with indeterminate histopathological diagnoses were excluded, leaving 357 patients for final analysis. Data on age, sex, diagnosis, and surgical margin status were collected and analyzed on Microsoft Excel programm. Histopathological diagnoses were classified as benign or malignant tumors. Associations between categorical variables were assessed using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among 357 patients, 135 (37.8%) were male and 222 (62.2%) were female, with a mean age of 41.8 years. The 20–39-year age group accounted for the largest proportion of cases (39.5%). Histopathological examination showed that 326 cases (91.32%) were benign and 31 cases (8.68%) were malignant. Among benign tumors, melanocytic nevus was the most common diagnosis, while basal cell carcinoma was the most common malignant tumor. The frequency of malignant tumors increased significantly with age (p < 0.001). Patients aged ≥60 years had significantly higher odds of malignancy compared with younger patients (OR = 8.19, 95% CI: 3.79–17.69). Malignant lesions were significantly more likely to have positive (involved) surgical margins than benign lesions. Conclusion Most surgically excised skin tissue specimens were benign; however, the likelihood of malignancy increased significantly with age. Surgical margin assessment is clinically important for improving prognosis, reducing the risk of recurrence, and guiding treatment management.

Background: Rosai–Dorfman disease (RDD) is a rare, benign disorder of non-Langerhans cell histiocytic origin with an unknown etiology, which can affect the skin and other organ systems. The incidence in the United States is approximately 1:200,000. In Mongolia, four cases have been registered over the past five years under the ICD-10 code D76.0. Case presentation: A 59-year-old female patient initially presented to the Dermatology Department of the National Center for Dermatology with clustered, elevated lesions on the medial aspect of the right thigh, including papules, plaques, and nodules of round to oval shape. Additionally, multiple erythematous macules and papules were observed on both lower legs. For diagnostic purposes, a histopathological examination was performed, revealing histiocytes with abundant cytoplasm and lymphocytes within the cytoplasm (emperipolesis). The diagnosis was confirmed based on dermoscopic and immunohistochemical findings. Management: The patient was referred to the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital of MNUMS, where the remaining nodular lesions were surgically excised in the surgical department. Further follow-up was referred to a hematologist. Computed tomography (CT) imaging was recommended. Cutaneous-limited RDD may resolve spontaneously in some cases; however, when multiple organ systems are involved or when associated forms are present, referral to hematology and oncology specialists for systemic therapy is required. Conclusion It is important to differentiate this disease from other dermatological conditions presented with macules, papules, and nodules through clinical evaluation, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and dermoscopic examination.