1.Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevents and Treats Ulcerative Colitis via TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway: A Review
Xi CUI ; Wenke DU ; Xing SHEN ; Cuicui LIU ; Rui ZHAI ; Hanghang LI ; Shuxun SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(21):284-294
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease primarily affecting the colon and rectum. With a rising incidence, UC has aroused an increasingly serious public health concern. The etiology and pathogenesis of UC are complex, involving genetic susceptibility, intestinal barrier dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and environmental factors such as diet, smoking, and infection. Current UC therapies face limitations including persistent drug resistance, multiple side effects, and compromised immune function, necessitating the exploration of novel intervention strategies. In recent years, with the continuous advancement of research into UC mechanisms, the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway has been revealved as one of the classical pathways involved in inflammation. Being crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis, this pathway regulates inflammatory and immune responses by controlling gene transcription, thereby playing a significant role in the occurrence and progression of UC. However, systematic summarization within this field remains lacking. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses unique advantages through its multi-target, multi-pathway, and multi-mechanism approaches, being capable of curbing the pathological progression of UC by targeting key molecules in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. This paper systematically summarizes the mechanisms by which TLR4/NF-κB-related pathways regulate UC, primarily encompassing inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, immune balance, and gut microbiota. It reviews single herbs (e.g., Rosa roxburghii root and Saposhnikoviae Radix), active components (e.g., resveratrol, Tripterygium glycosides, and gypenosides), herbal extracts (e.g., Zingiberis Rhizoma extract and Taraxaci Herba extract), and compound formulas for clearing heat and removing dampness, invigorating the spleen and warming the kidneys, clearing heat and detoxifying, harmonizing the liver and spleen, and treating cold and heat in complexity (e.g., Huaihua Powder, Shenling Baizhu Powder, and Jiedu Huayu Formula). The aim is to fully leverage the advantages of TCM in UC treatment and provide novel insights for clinical and pharmacological research on UC.
2.Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevents and Treats Ulcerative Colitis via TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway: A Review
Xi CUI ; Wenke DU ; Xing SHEN ; Cuicui LIU ; Rui ZHAI ; Hanghang LI ; Shuxun SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(21):284-294
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease primarily affecting the colon and rectum. With a rising incidence, UC has aroused an increasingly serious public health concern. The etiology and pathogenesis of UC are complex, involving genetic susceptibility, intestinal barrier dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and environmental factors such as diet, smoking, and infection. Current UC therapies face limitations including persistent drug resistance, multiple side effects, and compromised immune function, necessitating the exploration of novel intervention strategies. In recent years, with the continuous advancement of research into UC mechanisms, the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway has been revealved as one of the classical pathways involved in inflammation. Being crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis, this pathway regulates inflammatory and immune responses by controlling gene transcription, thereby playing a significant role in the occurrence and progression of UC. However, systematic summarization within this field remains lacking. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses unique advantages through its multi-target, multi-pathway, and multi-mechanism approaches, being capable of curbing the pathological progression of UC by targeting key molecules in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. This paper systematically summarizes the mechanisms by which TLR4/NF-κB-related pathways regulate UC, primarily encompassing inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, immune balance, and gut microbiota. It reviews single herbs (e.g., Rosa roxburghii root and Saposhnikoviae Radix), active components (e.g., resveratrol, Tripterygium glycosides, and gypenosides), herbal extracts (e.g., Zingiberis Rhizoma extract and Taraxaci Herba extract), and compound formulas for clearing heat and removing dampness, invigorating the spleen and warming the kidneys, clearing heat and detoxifying, harmonizing the liver and spleen, and treating cold and heat in complexity (e.g., Huaihua Powder, Shenling Baizhu Powder, and Jiedu Huayu Formula). The aim is to fully leverage the advantages of TCM in UC treatment and provide novel insights for clinical and pharmacological research on UC.
3.Role of G protein inhibitory α subunit 1/3 mediating the nerve growth factor pathway in postoperative learning and memory function in Alzheimer's disease mice
Cuicui SHI ; Yufeng ZHANG ; Hao ZHANG ; Enhui CUI ; Ming YAN ; Yue SUN ; Jian SUN
Chinese Journal of Geriatric Heart Brain and Vessel Diseases 2025;27(11):1562-1566
Objective To investigate the effects of isoflurane anesthesia on cognitive function and the hippocampal nerve growth factor(NGF)and tyrosine receptor kinase A(TrkA)signaling pathway in Alzheimer's disease(AD)mice,while explore the role of G protein inhibitory α subunit 1/3(Gαi1/3)in this pathway.Methods Twelve wide-type mice and 48 APP/PS1(AD)mice(all males)were respectively assigned into a control group and 4 experimental groups,including AD,AD+postoperative cognitive dysfunction(POCD)group,empty adenovirus group,and Gαi1/3 overexpression group,with 12 mice in each group.Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests were conducted to assess the learning and memory function of each group;Western blotting was applied to detect the expression of amyloid P-protein 1-42(Aβ1-42),IL-6,TNF-α,synaptotagmin-1,synapsin-1,and NGF,p-TrkA,Gαi1/3,and p-Gab1 in hippocampal tissues.Results Compared with the control group and AD group,the avoidance incubation period in the AD+POCD group is significantly extended from days 2 to 4(P<0.05),enhanced expression of Aβ1-42,IL-6,and TNF-α(P<0.05),and reduced expression of synaptotagmin-1,synapsin-1,NGF,p-TrkA,Gαi1/3,and p-Gab1(P<0.05).When compared with the AD+POCD group and the empty adenovirus group,the avoidance latency in the Gαi1/3 overexpression group was significantly shorted on days 2 to 4(P<0.05),down-regulation of Aβ1-42(2.00±0.39 vs 3.38±0.38),IL-6(1.65±0.37 vs 3.36±0.39),and TNF-α(1.58±0.30 vs 2.90±0.31,P<0.05),and up-regulation of synaptotagmin-1,synapsin-1,Gαi1/3,and p-Gab1(P<0.05).Conclusion Isoflurane anesthesia can exacerbate POCD in AD mice,and overexpression of Gαi1/3 can improve cognitive function by activating the phosphorylation of Gab1.
4.Research Progress in the Mechanism of Shaoyao Decoction in Regulating Cytokines for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Cuicui LIU ; Peng'an YAN ; Xi CUI ; Qinqin LIU ; Hanghang LI ; Rui ZHAI ; Shuxun SHI
Chinese Journal of Information on Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;32(10):179-184
Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a recurrent,chronic,nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease.Shaoyao Decoction has shown good efficacy in the treatment of UC,which mainly regulates the balance of cytokines to achieve the purpose of treating UC.This article reviewed the research progress in the mechanism of Shaoyao Decoction in the treatment of UC from two aspects of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines.Research has shown that Shaoyao Decoction can regulate the body's immune response,alleviate intestinal inflammation,protect the intestinal mucosal barrier,restore normal structure and function of the colon mucosa through pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α,interferon-γ,interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,IL-8,IL-17,and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as transforming growth factor-β,IL-4,IL-10,IL-13,which can provide reference for UC related mechanism research and clinical treatment.
5.Research Progress in the Mechanism of Shaoyao Decoction in Regulating Cytokines for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Cuicui LIU ; Peng'an YAN ; Xi CUI ; Qinqin LIU ; Hanghang LI ; Rui ZHAI ; Shuxun SHI
Chinese Journal of Information on Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;32(10):179-184
Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a recurrent,chronic,nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease.Shaoyao Decoction has shown good efficacy in the treatment of UC,which mainly regulates the balance of cytokines to achieve the purpose of treating UC.This article reviewed the research progress in the mechanism of Shaoyao Decoction in the treatment of UC from two aspects of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines.Research has shown that Shaoyao Decoction can regulate the body's immune response,alleviate intestinal inflammation,protect the intestinal mucosal barrier,restore normal structure and function of the colon mucosa through pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α,interferon-γ,interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,IL-8,IL-17,and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as transforming growth factor-β,IL-4,IL-10,IL-13,which can provide reference for UC related mechanism research and clinical treatment.
6.Role of G protein inhibitory α subunit 1/3 mediating the nerve growth factor pathway in postoperative learning and memory function in Alzheimer's disease mice
Cuicui SHI ; Yufeng ZHANG ; Hao ZHANG ; Enhui CUI ; Ming YAN ; Yue SUN ; Jian SUN
Chinese Journal of Geriatric Heart Brain and Vessel Diseases 2025;27(11):1562-1566
Objective To investigate the effects of isoflurane anesthesia on cognitive function and the hippocampal nerve growth factor(NGF)and tyrosine receptor kinase A(TrkA)signaling pathway in Alzheimer's disease(AD)mice,while explore the role of G protein inhibitory α subunit 1/3(Gαi1/3)in this pathway.Methods Twelve wide-type mice and 48 APP/PS1(AD)mice(all males)were respectively assigned into a control group and 4 experimental groups,including AD,AD+postoperative cognitive dysfunction(POCD)group,empty adenovirus group,and Gαi1/3 overexpression group,with 12 mice in each group.Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests were conducted to assess the learning and memory function of each group;Western blotting was applied to detect the expression of amyloid P-protein 1-42(Aβ1-42),IL-6,TNF-α,synaptotagmin-1,synapsin-1,and NGF,p-TrkA,Gαi1/3,and p-Gab1 in hippocampal tissues.Results Compared with the control group and AD group,the avoidance incubation period in the AD+POCD group is significantly extended from days 2 to 4(P<0.05),enhanced expression of Aβ1-42,IL-6,and TNF-α(P<0.05),and reduced expression of synaptotagmin-1,synapsin-1,NGF,p-TrkA,Gαi1/3,and p-Gab1(P<0.05).When compared with the AD+POCD group and the empty adenovirus group,the avoidance latency in the Gαi1/3 overexpression group was significantly shorted on days 2 to 4(P<0.05),down-regulation of Aβ1-42(2.00±0.39 vs 3.38±0.38),IL-6(1.65±0.37 vs 3.36±0.39),and TNF-α(1.58±0.30 vs 2.90±0.31,P<0.05),and up-regulation of synaptotagmin-1,synapsin-1,Gαi1/3,and p-Gab1(P<0.05).Conclusion Isoflurane anesthesia can exacerbate POCD in AD mice,and overexpression of Gαi1/3 can improve cognitive function by activating the phosphorylation of Gab1.
7.Research progress in mitochondrial quality control in schizophrenia
Haoran CHU ; Cuicui CUI ; Xianbiao SU ; Hongchang ZHANG ; Jiashu MA ; Houming ZHU ; Ludong BAI ; Ranran LI
Journal of Central South University(Medical Sciences) 2024;49(1):128-134
Mitochondria are the main site of energy metabolism within cells,generating a substantial amount of ATP to supply energy to the human body.Research has shown that alterations in mitochondrial structure and function exist in individuals with schizophrenia,suggesting their potential impact on the onset of psychiatric disorders and clinical treatment efficacy.Therefore,understanding the research progress on the genetic mechanisms,pathological processes,image manifestations of schizophrenia and mitochondrial quality control,and summarizing the relevant evidence of mitochondrial-related targets as potential therapeutic targets for schizophrenia,can provide references for further research.
8.Advances on the mechanisms of metformin in improving cognitive impairment in schizophrenia
Houming ZHU ; Cuicui CUI ; Weili XIA ; Jiacui JI ; Hongchang ZHANG ; Xianbiao SU ; Zhongbao WANG ; Jiashu MA ; Haoran CHU ; Yunshao ZHENG ; Ludong BAI ; Ranran LI
Chinese Journal of Nervous and Mental Diseases 2024;50(5):315-320
Schizophrenia is a common chronic mental disorder.Cognitive dysfunction is one of its core symptoms,which severely affects the social functioning of patients.Currently,antipsychotic medication treatments have poor efficacy in improving cognitive functions.Recent studies have found that metformin can improve cognitive dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia.However,the mechanism of action remains unclear.This review summarizes the therapeutic effects of metformin on cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia patients such as improving insulin resistance,repairing neuronal damage,regulating neuroimmunity,and combating oxidative stress,thereby providing new insights for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia.
9.The mediating role of intrinsic motivation between challenge-hindrance stressors and thriving at work among clinical nurses
Cuicui LI ; Xiaowen CUI ; Ying XIN ; Yarui ZHAO ; Weiwei PAN ; Yun ZHU
Chinese Journal of Practical Nursing 2023;39(21):1665-1670
Objective:To explore the relationship between challenge-hindrance stressors and thriving at work in clinical nurses, and to analyze the mediating role of intrinsic motivation.Methods:This was a cross-sectional survey. A total of 319 nurses from the Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital from May to June 2022 were investigated by general data questionnaire, Challenge-Hindrance Stressors Scale, Intrinsic Motivation Scale and Thriving At Work Scale. Pearson was used to analyze the correlation between various variables, and Amos 23.0 was used to construct a structural equation model to analyze the mediating role of intrinsic motivation between challenging stressors, hindrance stressors, and thriving at work.Results:The score for challenging stressors was (21.22 ± 4.42) points, the score for hindrance stressors was (13.51 ± 3.59) points, the score for intrinsic motivation was (78.96 ± 11.52) points, and the score for thriving at work was (51.27 ± 8.03) points. Challenging stressors was positively associated with intrinsic motivation and thriving at work ( r=0.222, 0.221, both P<0.01), hindrance stressors was negatively associated with intrinsic motivation and thriving at work ( r=-0.152, -0.337, both P<0.01), intrinsic motivation was positively correlated with thriving at work ( r=0.564, P<0.01). Intrinsic motivation was partially mediated between challenging stressors, hindrance stressors and thriving at work, respectively accounting for 16.02% and 13.79%. Conclusions:Challenging stressors and hindrance stressors can indirectly influence their thriving at work through intrinsic motivation. Nursing managers should help nurses treat different stressors correctly to enhance their intrinsic motivation and promote their thriving at work.
10.Association of physical activity and depressive symptoms with eating disorders among college students in Jinan
Chinese Journal of School Health 2021;42(1):69-72
Objective:
To understand the relationship between physical activity, depressive symptoms and eating disorders among college students, and to provide a theoretical basis for the intervention of eating disorders among college students.
Methods:
A questionnaire survey including International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale and Eating Attitude Test was administered among 2 712 college students from three universities.
Results:
Among the college students surveyed, 1 750(64.5%) did not meet the recommendations for physical activity, 962(35.5%) met the recommendation for physical activity; 488(18.0%) reported depressive symptoms, 452(16.7%) reported symptoms of eating disorders. There was a statistically significant difference in the incidence of eating disorders by genders, self-assessed learning pressure, physical activity and depressive symptoms(χ2=63.65, 23.17, 34.24, 70.66, P<0.05). After adjusting for demographic variables, the results of multiple Logistic regression analysis showed that physical activity and depressive symptoms were positively correlated with eating disorders(OR=1.59, 2.58, P<0.01). In the depression group, lower level of physical activity, was associated with higher rate of eating disorders.
Conclusion
Physical activity and depressive symptoms of college students were related to eating disorders. It is suggest that eating disorders might be alleviated by actively improving depressive symptoms and increasing physical activity.


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