1.Clinical Observation on Prevention of Recurrence of Common Bile Duct Stones After ERCP with Yuyin Lidan Granules
Xiao WANG ; Yong FANG ; Cong HE ; Jiali ZHANG ; Meng YU ; Jing KONG ; Yi JIANG ; Chuanqi CHENG ; Xiaosu WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(4):159-166
ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy and safety of Yuyin Lidan granules (YYLD) in preventing the recurrence of common bile duct stones (CBDS) in patients with liver and gallbladder dampness-heat syndrome following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). MethodsThis randomized, parallel, controlled trial enrolled postoperative CBDS-ERCP patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sixty-four patients were randomly assigned to an observation group or a control group, with 32 cases in each. Both groups received conventional Western medical treatment after ERCP, while the observation group additionally received YYLD for 8 weeks. The follow-up period lasted for 1 year. The efficacy indicators included bile bilirubin levels, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, clinical efficacy rate, pancreatitis and inflammation markers, postoperative liver function, and CBDS recurrence rate at 1-year follow-up, which were used to jointly evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of both groups. ResultsA total of 56 patients completed the study and were included in the final analysis, i.e., 29 in the observation group and 27 in the control group. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Compared with pre-treatment and with the control group after treatment, the bile bilirubin level in the observation group significantly decreased (P<0.05). After treatment, the clinical cure and marked improvement rates were higher in the observation group than in the control group, showing a statistically significant difference in overall clinical efficacy (P<0.05). Compared with pre-treatment, the primary and secondary symptoms in the observation group, as well as the primary symptom and the secondary symptom of nausea and vomiting in the control group (weeks 4 and 8), were significantly reduced (P<0.05). Compared with the control group after treatment, the observation group showed significant reductions in the primary symptom of loose stools/constipation (day 5 and week 4) and in three secondary symptoms, i.e., bitter taste and sticky dry mouth, abdominal distension and poor appetite (throughout the treatment period), and general heaviness and fatigue (day 5 and week 4), with statistical differences (P<0.05). Compared with pre-treatment, both groups showed decreased lipase and urinary amylase levels (P<0.05). However, no significant between-group differences were observed in pancreatitis or inflammation-related indices after treatment. Compared with pre-treatment, all liver function indicators in the observation group and alanine aminotransferase ( ALT ), γ-glutamyl transferase ( γ-GT ), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and conjugated bilirubin in the control group significantly decreased at weeks 4 and 8 (P<0.05). Compared with the control group after treatment, only serum total bilirubin and unconjugated bilirubin were significantly reduced in the observation group during the treatment period (P<0.05). ConclusionYYLD combined with conventional Western medical treatment can effectively regulate bilirubin metabolism (in bile and serum), improve TCM clinical symptoms, and prevent CBDS recurrence after ERCP in patients with liver and gallbladder dampness-heat syndrome. This regimen is safe and effective and is worthy of further clinical research and promotion.
2.Evaluation of the anticoagulant effect of nafamostat mesylate in continuous veno-venous hemofiltration with different dilution methods for uremic patients
Li SHEN ; Yao ZHANG ; Jun WANG ; Hong ZHU ; Yong QIN ; Yuewu TANG ; Ni DU
China Pharmacy 2026;37(3):350-355
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the anticoagulant efficacy and safety of nafamostat mesylate (NM) in the treatment of uremic patients at high risk of bleeding undergoing continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) with different methods (pre- dilution and post-dilution). METHODS A total of 130 uremic patients at high risk of bleeding who underwent CVVH treatment in the nephrology department of Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital from July 2023 to September 2024 were selected. They were divided into pre-dilution group and post-dilution group according to the random number table method, with 65 cases in each group. Both groups of patients received CVVH treatment under NM anticoagulation. The pre-dilution group adopted the pre-dilution replacement method, while the post-dilution group adopted the post-dilution replacement method. The coagulation, pressure, and usage duration of the filter and dialysis circuit venous reservoirs were compared between the two groups. The changes in prothrombin time (PT), prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and fibrinogen (FIB) in the peripheral venous blood before the heparin pump and after the filter at 1, 4 and 7 h of CVVH treatment, as well as 20 min after the end of treatment, were compared between the two groups. The single-compartment urea clearance rate (spKt/V), β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) clearance rate and the incidence of adverse reactions were duni2007@foxmail.com compared between the two groups. RESULTS Both the pre-dilution and post-dilution groups had 60 patients who completed the study. The incidence of grade Ⅱ-Ⅲ coagulation of the filter and venous reservoirs, as well as the number of patients with transmembrane and venous pressure alarm intervention in the post- dilution group were significantly higher or more than those in the pre-dilution group (P<0.05), while usage time of the filter and the pipeline in the post-dilution group was significantly shorter than that in the pre-dilution group (P<0.05). The APTT values before the heparin pump as well as PT and APTT values after the filter at 1 h, 4 h, and 7 h of CVVH treatment in the post-dilution group were significantly higher than those in the pre-dilution group (P<0.001). There were no significant differences in PT, PT- INR, APTT and FIB between the two groups of patients 20 min after the end of treatment (P>0.05). The spKt/v and β2-MG clearance rates in the post-dilution group were significantly higher than those in the pre-dilution group (P<0.001). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS When NM is used as an anticoagulant in the CVVH treatment of uremic patients at high risk of bleeding, compared with the pre-dilution treatment method, the post-dilution treatment method has a higher incidence of filter and dialysis tubing venous reservoir, a shorter usage time of the filter and pipeline, and a greater impact on extracorporeal coagulation, but has a higher solute clearance rate. Clinically, different dilution methods can be selected according to the different treatment needs of patients.
3.Analysis of factors influencing temporary deferral and return to donation due to abnormal blood pressure in pre-donation screening
Jin YANG ; Li SUN ; Qiyong BI ; Jingyao WANG ; Yong WANG
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2026;39(1):56-61
Objective: To analyze the demographic characteristics, return donation patterns, and risk of adverse reactions among donors temporarily deferred due to blood pressure abnormalities, so as to provide an evidence-based foundation for optimizing pre-donation blood pressure screening strategies, enhancing donor retention, and ensuring blood supply safety. Methods: Data from 2.939 million donor instances were collected through the Information Management System at the Beijing Red Cross Blood Center between January 2015 and August 2025. The analysis specifically focused on the 11 600 instances of donors temporarily deferred due to abnormal blood pressure, examining demographic characteristics (age, and gender) and donation-related features (number of donations, donation site, and type of donation). Further analysis was conducted on the return donation patterns, including the return rate, time interval to return, and the incidence, type, and severity of adverse reactions among returned donors. Results: Distribution of abnormal blood pressure: Among the 11 600 instances of abnormal blood pressure, the prevalence was significantly higher in males (0.48%, 10 111/2 086 909) than in females (0.17%, 1 465/852 090). The 46-55 age group had the highest prevalence (0.88%, 2 925/329 235), and the differences across age groups were statistically significant. The prevalence was, higher among repeat donors (0.41%, 5 242/1 276 452) than first-time donors (0.38%, 6 334/1 662 547). The prevalence at mobile donation sites outside the blood center (0.06%, 350/596 104) was higher than fixed donor centers (0.50%, 10 225/2 052 290) and group donation drives (0.34%, 1 001/290 608). Return donations: A total of 19.49% (2 256 out of 11 576) deferred donors returner and successfully donated. Among these donors, 36.17% (816 out of 2 256) returned within 7 days, while the highest proportion of returns was observed within 31-182 days (25.44%, 574/2 256). A higher return rate was observed among male donors (20.17%, 2 039/1 0111) compared to female donors (14.81%, 217/1 465). The return rate for repeat donors (43.02%, 2 255/5 242) was significantly higher than that of first-time donors (0.02%, 1/6 334). Individual donors showed a higher return rate (20.95%, 1 986/9 479) than group donors (12.88%, 270/2 097), with all differences being statistically significant (P<0.05). The differences in return rates across age groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Adverse reactions: The incidence of adverse reactions after return was 0.09% (2/2 256), significantly lower than the overall adverse reaction incidence during the same period (0.20%, 5 981/2 938 999). Both adverse reactions were local reaction (category A1, pain or bruising at the puncture site), with no reported cases of systemic vasovagal reactions (VR) or severe adverse events. Conclusion: The current blood pressure screening criteria may lead to the unnecessary deferral of eligible donors. The risk of adverse reactions is extremely low among returned donors who were deferred for abnormal blood pressure. A relaxation of the blood pressure screening criteria is therefore suggested, coupled with the optimization of donation site environment and blood pressure measurement procedure with reference to expert consensus to enhance donor retention and blood supply safety.
4.Notoginsenoside R1 modulates mitophagy in human cardiomyocytes viathe Pink1/Parkin pathway after hypoxia/reoxygenation
Xiaoman XIONG ; Huan WU ; Shanglin LU ; Yong WANG ; Yuhua ZHENG ; Yi XIANG ; Haiyan ZHOU ; Xingde LIU
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(1):53-59
ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanism by which Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) ameliorates hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced injury in AC16 human cardiomyocyte cell lines through the regulation of mitophagy. MethodsCommon genes linked to hypoxia/reoxygenation injury and mitophagy were identified by intersecting data from GeneCards and MitoCarta databases. AC16 cell viability was assessed via CCK-8 assay under varying NGR1 concentrations (0, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 μmol/L). AC16 cells were divided into the following groups: control group (Control), model group (H/R), and treatment groups (H/R + NGR1 at 100, 200 and 300 μmol/L). Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was measured using 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining. Transcriptional levels of mitophagy-related genes (Parkin, Pink1, P62) were quantified by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Protein expression of mitophagy-related markers (Parkin, Pink1, P62, and LC3BⅡ) was evaluated via Western blot analysis. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). ResultsCompared to the control group, cell viability in the H/R group significantly decreased (P<0.01). Treatment with NGR1 at concentrations above 100 μmol/L significantly enhanced the cell viability of AC16 cells compared to the H/R group (P<0.01). H/R induced a significant decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.01), which was restored by NGR1 treatment (P<0.01). The mRNA levels of Parkin, Pink1, and P62 in the H/R group were upregulated compared to the control group (P<0.05), while NGR1 intervention downregulated their expression (P<0.05). Protein expression levels of Parkin, Pink1, and LC3BⅡ in the H/R group significantly increased, while P62 expression decreased compared to the control group (P<0.01). In contrast, different doses of NGR1 treatment significantly reduced the expression of Parkin, Pink1, and LC3BⅡ while increasing P62 expression (P<0.05). TEM revealed that the mitochondrial structure in the H/R group was severely disrupted, with fragmented and disorganized cristae, which was alleviated by NGR1. ConclusionNGR1 ameliorates H/R-induced AC16 cell injury, and its mechanism may be associated with modulating the Pink1/Parkin pathway to suppress excessive mitophagy.
5.Exploring on Quality Evaluation Methods of Clinical Case Reports in Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on China Clinical Cases Library of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Kaige ZHANG ; Feng ZHANG ; Bo ZHOU ; Haimin CHEN ; Yong ZHU ; Changcheng HOU ; Liangzhen YOU ; Weijun HUANG ; Jie YANG ; Guoshuang ZHU ; Shukun GONG ; Jianwen HE ; Yang YE ; Yuqiu AN ; Chunquan SUN ; Qingjie YUAN ; Buman LI ; Xingzhong FENG ; Kegang CAO ; Hongcai SHANG ; Jihua GUO ; Xiaoxiao ZHANG ; Zhining TIAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(1):271-276
As the core vehicle for preserving and transmitting traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) academic thought and clinical experience, the establishment of a robust quality evaluation system for TCM clinical case reports is a crucial component in the current standardization and modernization of TCM. Based on the practical experience of constructing the China Clinical Cases Library of Traditional Chinese Medicine by the China Association of Chinese Medicine, this study conducted a comprehensive analysis of critical challenges, including insufficient authenticity and unfocused evaluation criteria. It proposed a three-dimensional evaluation framework grounded in the structure-process-outcome logic, encompassing three dimensions of authenticity and standardization, characteristics and advantages, application and translational impact. This framework integrated 12 key evaluation indicators in a systematic manner. The model preserved the academic characteristics of TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment, while aligning with modern scientific research standards, achieving a balance between individualized TCM experience and standardized evaluation. Concurrently, this study provided theoretical foundations and methodological guidance for evaluating the quality of TCM clinical cases, contributing significantly to the inheritance of TCM knowledge, evidence-based practice, and the reform of talent evaluation mechanisms.
6.Influence of Wenfei Guyuan Umbilical Moxibustion on Quality of Life and Immune Function in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Stable Phase
Qionghua XIAO ; Yuanyuan MENG ; Gaoming WANG ; Minghang WANG ; Yong MENG ; Miao ZHOU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):241-250
ObjectiveThis paper aims to assess the effects of Wenfei Guyuan umbilical moxibustion on the quality of life and immune function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in stable phase. MethodsA multi-center randomized controlled trial design was employed,and the 220 cases of patients with COPD in stable phase from three grade A class-Ⅲ hospitals were included as research objects. The patients were randomly divided into the test group and control group,with each group consisting of 110 cases. Both groups received standardized treatment of western medicine,and the test group received Wenfei Guyuan umbilical moxibustion twice weekly for 13 weeks,followed by a 26-week follow-up period. Quality of life was evaluated by using the COPD assessment test (CAT),the modified COPD patient-reported outcomes (mCOPD-PRO) measure,and the modified effectiveness satisfaction questionnaire for COPD (mESQ-COPD) before treatment,four weeks, eight weeks, and 13 weeks of the treatment period,as well as 13 weeks and 26 weeks of the follow-up period. The number of acute exacerbation cases of patients in both groups was recorded during study period to evaluate the effect of Wenfei Guyuan umbilical moxibustion on acute exacerbations. 30 cases were randomly selected in both observation group and control group. Peripheral blood samples were collected before treatment and at 13 weeks of treatment. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA),immunoglobulin G (IgG),immunoglobulin M (IgM),interleukin 10 (IL-10),interleukin 17A (IL-17A),transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1),and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Flow cytometry was used to detect cluster of differentiation 4 positive (CD4+),cluster of differentiation 8 positive (CD8+),T helper 17 (Th17),and Treg levels, thereby preliminarily exploring the effect of Wenfei Guyuan umbilical moxibustion on immune function. ResultsA total of 220 patients were included,with five cases dropping out. 215 cases were finally included in the per-protocol set,including 107 in the treatment group and 108 in the control group. Baseline characteristics of the first two groups before treatment were compared between the two groups. In terms of life quality evaluation, the main effect of group differences on the CAT scores was significant (F=15.108,P<0.01). The main effects of group differences on the physical domain (F=38.807,P<0.01),psychological domain (F=38.996,P<0.01),environmental domain (F=17.436,P<0.01),and total score of mCOPD-PRO (F=41.972,P<0.01) were significant. The main effects of group difference on clinical symptoms domain of mESQ-COPD (F=81.516,P<0.01),work-life ability domain (F=36.549,P<0.001),environmental adaptation ability domain (F=22.677,P<0.01),therapeutic effect domain (F=74.055,P<0.01),and total score of mESQ-COPD (F=73.251,P<0.01) were significant. Regarding acute exacerbations,during the entire study period,as well as the treatment period and follow-up period,the observation group showed fewer patients experiencing acute exacerbations compared to the control group,but the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant. In terms of immune indicators,after 13 weeks of treatment,the levels of IgA,IgG,and IgM in the observation group were significantly better than those in the control group (P<0.05). The level of IL-10 was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05),and the levels of IL-17A,TGF-β1,and TNF-α were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with those in the control group,the level of CD4+/CD8+ in the observation group was significantly increased (P<0.05),while the levels of CD4+ and Treg were slightly increased,but the difference was not statistically significant. The levels of CD8+,Th17,and Th17/Treg were significantly decreased (P<0.05). ConclusionWenfei Guyuan umbilical moxibustion can improve the quality of life, and immune function in patients with COPD in stable phase. It is worth promoting in clinical practice.
7.Research Progress on Tumor Microenvironment in Lung Cancer Spine Metastasis
Hongyang FU ; Yizhi LIU ; Yitong SHE ; Yaxin DU ; Ruixia WU ; Manglai LI ; Yong ZHU
Cancer Research on Prevention and Treatment 2026;53(2):158-164
The spine is the most common site of skeletal metastasis in lung cancer, which frequently leads to severe complications such as pathological fracture and neurological compromise and is associated with poor prognosis. The development and progression of spinal metastasis from lung cancer are linked to the unique local microenvironment and tumor microenvironment (TME) of the vertebral column. During metastatic evolution, the dense vascular network of the spine and a plethora of signaling molecules, together with the complex cellular constituents and their intricate interactions within the TME, all cooperate to facilitate the tumor invasion and colonization of the vertebral compartment. Mechanistic studies delineating the role of the TME in spinal metastasis from lung cancer have markedly expanded, fostering the emergence of innovative therapeutic strategies—including nanomedicines, sono-photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and combination regimens. These strategies demonstrate remarkably potential for clinical translation and offer new directions for the precision management of spinal metastasis from lung cancer.
8.Qinlian Hongqutang Improves NASH by Promoting Macrophage Polarization Through TLR4 and STAT6 Signaling Pathways
Yong ZHANG ; Yong HU ; Yunliang HE ; Yang YANG ; Donghui CHEN ; Sijie DANG ; Jia HE ; Yaqi LUO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):10-20
ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Qinlian Hongqutang (QLHQT) on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). MethodsC57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into normal and modeling groups. The NASH model was established by feeding a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. After successful modeling, mice were randomly assigned to the model group, low-, medium-, and high-dose QLHQT groups (0.51, 1.02, and 2.04 g·kg-1), and a positive control metformin group, with six mice in each group. The mice were treated for 8 weeks. Body weight was recorded before and after treatment. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), as well as hepatic TC, TG, and LDL-C contents, were determined by biochemical assays. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and oil red O staining were used to evaluate liver histopathology and lipid deposition, respectively. Flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) were used to assess hepatic macrophage expression and related markers. Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to investigate the potential mechanisms of QLHQT in regulating macrophage polarization. ResultsCompared with the normal group, body weight and serum and hepatic levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C were significantly increased in the model group (P<0.01). Liver histopathology showed unevenly distributed round lipid droplets in the hepatocyte cytoplasm, accompanied by inflammatory cell aggregation. Flow cytometry showed that the proportion of CD86-positive cells was significantly increased, whereas the proportion of CD206-positive cells was markedly decreased (P<0.05). Hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA expression were significantly increased, while hepatic IL-10 levels and IL-4 mRNA expression were significantly decreased (P<0.01). The protein expression levels of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) in the liver were significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, body weight was reduced in the high-, medium-, and low-dose QLHQT groups and in the metformin group. Serum and hepatic TC, TG, and LDL-C levels were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Liver histopathology showed alleviated hepatic lipid deposition, with markedly reduced lipid droplets and inflammation. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry showed that the proportions of CD86-positive cells were significantly decreased, whereas the proportions of CD206-positive cells were significantly increased in the high-, medium-, and low-dose QLHQT groups (P<0.05). Hepatic iNOS levels and TNF-α mRNA expression were significantly decreased (P<0.01), whereas hepatic IL-10 levels and IL-4 mRNA expression were significantly increased (P<0.01). The hepatic protein expression levels of TLR4, TRAF6, and MyD88 were significantly decreased, while signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) phosphorylation was significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in total STAT6 protein expression. ConclusionQLHQT effectively ameliorates hepatic inflammation in NASH mice, and the mechanism may involve STAT6- and TLR4-mediated signaling pathways driving polarization of M1 macrophages toward the M2 phenotype.
9.Short-term efficacy of low-dose transscleral cyclophotocoagulation for persistent ocular hypertension in acute angle-closure glaucoma
Qiaoyun LI ; Yong JIA ; Baike ZHANG ; Xiaojing GUO ; Cong LU ; Xinli WEI ; Xuemin TIAN
International Eye Science 2026;26(4):706-710
AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of low-dose transscleral cyclophotocoagulation(TSCP)in the management of persistent ocular hypertension after an acute attack of angle-closure glaucoma(AACG).METHODS:This retrospective study enrolled patients diagnosed with persistent ocular hypertension after an acute AACG attack at the No.988 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the Chinese PLA between September 2023 and September 2024. All patients underwent low-dose TSCP using a semiconductor diode laser. Subsequent cataract surgery combined with goniosynechialysis was performed once intraocular pressure(IOP)was stabilized. Changes in anterior chamber depth(ACD), best-corrected visual acuity(VA), and IOP were compared before and after TSCP, as well as before and after phacoemulsification. Post-TSCP complications were also documented.RESULTS: A total of 21 patients(21 eyes)were enrolled, including 8 males and 13 females, with a mean age of 67.95±7.25 y. Compared with pre-cyclophotocoagulation values, ACD increased significantly at 3 d post-TSCP(1.49±0.18 vs 1.22±0.21 mm; P<0.001). BCVA and IOP decreased significantly at 1 d post-TSCP, pre-phacoemulsification, 1 wk post-phacoemulsification, and 1 mo post-phacoemulsification compared with pre-TSCP IOP(all P<0.01). Regarding postoperative complications, 2 eyes experienced pain on the day of the procedure, 5 eyes developed mild corneal endothelial folds, 2 eyes exhibited moderate anterior chamber inflammatory reaction, and 12 eyes showed shallow ciliary body detachment. No serious complications occurred during the 1-month follow-up period.CONCLUSION:Low-dose TSCP appears to be an effective bridging therapy for patients with persistent ocular hypertension following an AACG attack. It facilitates rapid IOP reduction, alleviates symptoms, and helps preserve visual function with a favorable safety profile, thereby reducing the risks associated with subsequent intraocular surgery.
10.Qinlian Hongqutang Improves NASH by Promoting Macrophage Polarization Through TLR4 and STAT6 Signaling Pathways
Yong ZHANG ; Yong HU ; Yunliang HE ; Yang YANG ; Donghui CHEN ; Sijie DANG ; Jia HE ; Yaqi LUO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):10-20
ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Qinlian Hongqutang (QLHQT) on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). MethodsC57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into normal and modeling groups. The NASH model was established by feeding a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. After successful modeling, mice were randomly assigned to the model group, low-, medium-, and high-dose QLHQT groups (0.51, 1.02, and 2.04 g·kg-1), and a positive control metformin group, with six mice in each group. The mice were treated for 8 weeks. Body weight was recorded before and after treatment. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), as well as hepatic TC, TG, and LDL-C contents, were determined by biochemical assays. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and oil red O staining were used to evaluate liver histopathology and lipid deposition, respectively. Flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) were used to assess hepatic macrophage expression and related markers. Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to investigate the potential mechanisms of QLHQT in regulating macrophage polarization. ResultsCompared with the normal group, body weight and serum and hepatic levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C were significantly increased in the model group (P<0.01). Liver histopathology showed unevenly distributed round lipid droplets in the hepatocyte cytoplasm, accompanied by inflammatory cell aggregation. Flow cytometry showed that the proportion of CD86-positive cells was significantly increased, whereas the proportion of CD206-positive cells was markedly decreased (P<0.05). Hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA expression were significantly increased, while hepatic IL-10 levels and IL-4 mRNA expression were significantly decreased (P<0.01). The protein expression levels of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) in the liver were significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, body weight was reduced in the high-, medium-, and low-dose QLHQT groups and in the metformin group. Serum and hepatic TC, TG, and LDL-C levels were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Liver histopathology showed alleviated hepatic lipid deposition, with markedly reduced lipid droplets and inflammation. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry showed that the proportions of CD86-positive cells were significantly decreased, whereas the proportions of CD206-positive cells were significantly increased in the high-, medium-, and low-dose QLHQT groups (P<0.05). Hepatic iNOS levels and TNF-α mRNA expression were significantly decreased (P<0.01), whereas hepatic IL-10 levels and IL-4 mRNA expression were significantly increased (P<0.01). The hepatic protein expression levels of TLR4, TRAF6, and MyD88 were significantly decreased, while signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) phosphorylation was significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in total STAT6 protein expression. ConclusionQLHQT effectively ameliorates hepatic inflammation in NASH mice, and the mechanism may involve STAT6- and TLR4-mediated signaling pathways driving polarization of M1 macrophages toward the M2 phenotype.

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