1.Comparison of Wild and Cultivated Gardeniae Fructus Based on Traditional Quality Evaluation
Yuanjun SHANG ; Bo GENG ; Xin CHEN ; Qi WANG ; Guohua ZHENG ; Chun LI ; Zhilai ZHAN ; Junjie HU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(5):225-234
ObjectiveBased on traditional quality evaluation of Gardeniae Fructus(GF) recorded in historical materia medica, this study systematically compared the quality differences between wild and cultivated GF from morphological characteristics, microscopic features, and contents of primary and secondary metabolites. MethodsVernier calipers and analytical balances were used to measure the length, diameter and individual fruit weight of wild and cultivated GF, and the aspect ratio was calculated. A colorimeter was used to determine the chromaticity value of wild and cultivated GF, and the paraffin sections of them were prepared by safranin-fast green staining and examined under an optical microscope to observe their microstructure. Subsequently, the contents of water-soluble and alcohol-soluble extracts of wild and cultivated GF were detected by hot immersion method under the general rule 2201 in volume Ⅳ of the 2020 edition of the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, the starch content was measured by anthrone colorimetric method, the content of total polysaccharides was determined by phenol-sulfuric acid colorimetric method, the sucrose content was determined by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection(HPLC-ELSD), and the contents of representative components in them were measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography(UPLC). Finally, correlation analysis was conducted between quality traits and phenotypic traits, combined with multivariate statistical analysis methods such as principal component analysis(PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA), key differential components between wild and cultivated GF were screened. ResultsIn terms of traits, the wild GF fruits were smaller, exhibiting reddish yellow or brownish red hues with significant variation between batches. While the cultivated GF fruits are larger, displaying deeper orange-red or brownish red. The diameter and individual fruit weight of cultivated GF were significantly greater than those of wild GF, while the blue-yellow value(b*) of wild GF was significantly higher than that of cultivated GF. In the microstructure, the mesocarp of wild GF contained numerous scattered calcium oxalate cluster crystals, while the endocarp contained stone cell class round, polygonal or tangential prolongation, undeveloped seeds were visible within the fruit. In contrast, the mesocarp of cultivated GF contained few calcium oxalate cluster crystals, or some batches exhibited extremely numerous cluster crystals. The stone cells in the endocarp were predominantly round-like, with the innermost layer arranged in a grid pattern. Seeds were basically mature, and only a few immature seeds existed in some batches. Regarding primary metabolite content, wild GF exhibited significantly higher total polysaccharide level than cultivated GF(P<0.01). In category-specific component content, wild GF exhibited significantly higher levels of total flavonoids and total polyphenols compared to cultivated GF(P<0.01). Analysis of 12 secondary metabolites revealed that wild GF exhibited significantly higher levels of Shanzhiside, deacetyl asperulosidic acid methyl ester, gardenoside and chlorogenic acid compared to cultivated GF(P<0.01). Conversely, the contents of genipin 1-gentiobioside, geniposide and genipin were significantly lower in wild GF(P<0.01). ConclusionThere are significant differences between wild and cultivated GF in terms of traits, microstructure, and contents of primary and secondary metabolites. At present, the quality evaluation system of cultivated GF remains incomplete, and this study provides a reference for guiding the production of high-quality GF medicinal materials.
2.Expert consensus on the medication catalog for drug-induced liver injury and rational drug use
Jianchun LI ; Di CHEN ; Pengfei JIN ; Gerontology NATIONAL ; Association GERIATRIC ; Research PHARMACY ; Society PHARMACY ; Association GERIATRIC
China Pharmacy 2026;37(3):273-280
OBJECTIVE To systematically sort out the drugs causing drug-induced liver injury (DILI) and their relevant information, and to develop the Expert consensus on the medication catalog for drug-induced liver injury and rational drug use (hereinafter referred to as the Consensus), so as to provide a reference for rational clinical use. METHODS Systematic searches were conducted across various literature databases, guideline retrieval websites and professional liver injury websites. Drugs identified as causing DILI from the included literature and online resources were extracted and assigned scores based on source credibility: three points for LiverTox A-class drugs and two points for B-class drugs; two points for drugs from Hepatox and guidelines; and one point for drugs from consensus and related literature sources. Drugs classified as LiverTox category A/B or with total scores ≥4 were included in the preliminary list of DILI-causing drugs. Opinions were collected and integrated from a multidisciplinary expert panel comprising 45 medical and pharmaceutical experts from 27 provinces across China through three rounds of the Delphi method (including questionnaires and discussion sessions), and after revision, the final version of Consensus was formed. RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS This Consensus included 12 traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) such as Polygoni Multiflori Radix and Ephedrae Herba, 151 Western medicines including amiodarone and atorvastatin, along with rational use information. For TCM, eight rational use information were included: evidence-based score, liver injury classification based on pathogenesis, liver injury classification based on biochemical abnormality pattern, clinical phenotype, laboratory examination manifestations, latency period, recovery time, and management strategies. For Western medicines, six additional items were included based on the TCM, namely liver function monitoring, discontinuation, contraindications, cautions, dose adjustments, and risk factors, totaling 14 items. This Consensus systematically compiles DILI drugs and their rational use information, which will support clinicians in enhancing the prevention, identification, and management of DILI, reducing the incidence of liver injury, and ensuring patient medication safety and efficacy.
3.Epidemiological features of foodborne disease outbreaks in Nanjing in 2013 - 2023
Zitong CHEN ; Xiaocheng LI ; Di JIN ; Baofu GUO
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2026;37(1):44-47
Objective The aim of this study is to examine the epidemiological features of foodborne disease outbreaks in Nanjing between 2013 and 2023, in order to offer a scientific foundation for the prevention and management of foodborne diseases. Methods Gathering information on foodborne disease outbreaks in Nanjing from 2013 to 2023, conduct descriptive analysis on the epidemiological characteristics of outbreak events, including time distribution, location distribution, and pathogenic factor distribution. A comparison of the rates was conducted using a χ2 test, with P<0.05 signifying statistical significance. Results Nanjing experienced 145 outbreaks of foodborne diseases. resulting in 21246 people being exposed, 2 488 affected and 3 fatalities from 2013 to 2023. The epidemic is primarily concentrated in the third quarter. There is a significant statistical difference in the incidence rate between different quarters (χ2=121.063, P<0.001). The number of events caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus is the highest, accounting for 23.45%. The identification rate of problematic foods is 67.59%, with meat and meat products being the most pathogenic (18.62%). The outbreak was mainly caused by improper storage and processing. The restaurants being the most common (41.38%). Conclusions Nanjing should focus on monitoring outbreaks caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus, especially in the third quarter; it is necessary to strengthen the health education of poisonous mushrooms; Nanjing should focus on the storage and processing of meat and meat products, and enhance food safety supervision in catering service venues, and improve on-site sampling and laboratory testing capabilities, thus drastically diminishing the risk of foodborne disease outbreaks.
4.Influence of CYP2C19 gene polymorphism on platelet function and inflammatory cytokines and analysis of factors associated with poor prognosis in elderly patients with ischemic stroke
Hai LIANG ; Hong ZHANG ; Runan XIA ; Huijuan CHEN ; Mengyu JIANG ; Fanqin LI ; Panpan DI ; Miao YANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(6):782-787
OBJECTIVE To investigate the influence of CYP2C19 gene polymorphism on platelet function and inflammatory cytokines in elderly patients with ischemic stroke, and to analyze potential factors associated with poor prognosis. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted on elderly patients with ischemic stroke admitted to our hospital from June 2024 to June 2025, wh o underwent CYP2C19 genotype testing and received antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel. The levels of platelet function indicators and inflammatory cytokines before and after treatment were compared among patients with different metabolic phenotypes. Based on the prognosis at 6 months post-treatment, patients were divided into poor prognosis group and good prognosis group. Univariate analysis was performed on general data, metabolic phenotype, the levels of platelet function indicators and inflammatory cytokines. Variables with P <0.05 and the levels of inflammatory cytokines before treatment were included in a multivariate Logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors for poor prognosis. Multiple linear regression was used to further analyze the relationship between metabolic phenotypes and inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS A total of 448 elderly patients with ischemic stroke were included; among them, 162 cases were normal metabolic phenotype, 218 were intermediate metabolic phenotype, and 68 were poor metabolic phenotype. No rapid or ultrarapid metabolic phenotypes were observed. After treatment, platelet aggregation rate, the levels of P-selectin and platelet activated complex-1 (PAC-1), high-sensitivity C-reactive Protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the normal metabolic phenotype group, intermediate metabolic phenotype group, and poor metabolic phenotype group (except for platelet aggregation rate, and the levels of P-selectin and PAC-1 in the poor metabolic phenotype group) were significantly lower than those before treatment in the same group. Moreover, the above indicators in the normal metabolic phenotype group were significantly lower than those in the intermediate and poor metabolic phenotype groups at the corresponding time, and the levels of platelet function indicators in the intermediate metabolic phenotype group were significantly lower than those in the poor metabol ic phenotype group at the corresponding time ( P <0.05). Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analyses showed that combined with hypertension, combined with diabetes mellitus, and intermediate or poor metabolic genotypes were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in elderly patients with ischemic stroke ( P <0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that serum levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α before treatment were significantly higher in patients with intermediate and poor metabolic genotypes compared to those with normal metabolic genotype ( P <0.05), with a greater magnitude of increase in inflammatory cytokines observed in the patients with poor metabolic genotype. CONCLUSIONS The elderly ischemic stroke patients with CYP2C19 intermediate and poor metabolic genotypes have poor inhibition effect on platelet and higher levels of inflammatory cytokines than normal metabolic genotype; CYP2C19 gene polymorphism, and in combination with hypertension and diabetes, can be used as independent predictors of poor prognosis.
5.Material Basis of Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of Bushen Tongdu Prescription Based on UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS and Network Pharmacology
Yan RONG ; Lulu JING ; Hongping HOU ; Huijun WANG ; Lihua CHEN ; Yunxin CHEN ; Liang LI ; Li LIN ; Xiaoqin LUO ; Haiyu ZHAO ; Xiaolu WEI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):152-161
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the material basis of the anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanism of action of Bushen Tongdu prescription (BSTDP). MethodsThe chemical components of BSTDP and its blood-absorbed components in vivo were systematically identified by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-linear ion trap-electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-LIT-Orbitrap-MS). Network pharmacology was employed to screen blood-absorbed bioactive components and potential targets of this formula. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of core targets was constructed to conduct enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was further utilized to verify the binding affinity between key components and targets. The inflammatory model was established and verified in vivo by using a transgenic zebrafish Tg (mpx: GFP). At three days post-fertilization (3 dpf), larvae of zebrafish were randomly assigned to blank group, model group, positive drug dexamethasone acetate group (75 μmol·L-1), and BSTDP groups with low, medium, and high doses (500, 1 000, and 2 000 mg·L-1). The distribution and quantity of neutrophils in the yolk sac region were observed under a fluorescence microscope. The mRNA expression levels of key genes in the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and inflammatory factors including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). ResultsA total of 120 chemical components were identified in BSTDP, among which 26 original components were confirmed by using serum pharmacochemical methods. A total of 227 common targets linking rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the blood-absorbed components were screened by network pharmacology. It is suggested that pseudobrucine, vomicine, sinapine, rehmannioside, cinnamyl alcohol glycoside, and methylephedrine exert anti-inflammatory effects by acting on core targets including protein kinase B1 (Akt1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), TLR4, mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA), thereby modulating multiple signaling pathways such as TLR4 and NF-κB. In vivo verification in zebrafish demonstrates that the maximum tolerable concentration of Bushen Tongdu Formula is 2 000 mg·L-1. Compared to those in the blank group, zebrafish in the model group showed a significantly higher number of neutrophils in the yolk sac region (P<0.01) and rising mRNA levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (P<0.01). Compared to that in the model group, the number of neutrophils was significantly reduced in BSTDP groups with medium and high doses, as well as the dexamethasone acetate group (P<0.05, P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the low dose group. The mRNA expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionThis paper identifies the material basis of the efficacy of BSTDP, demonstrating that the formula can exert an anti-inflammatory effect through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. The results provide scientific experimental evidence for its further clinical application.
6.Material Basis of Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of Bushen Tongdu Prescription Based on UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS and Network Pharmacology
Yan RONG ; Lulu JING ; Hongping HOU ; Huijun WANG ; Lihua CHEN ; Yunxin CHEN ; Liang LI ; Li LIN ; Xiaoqin LUO ; Haiyu ZHAO ; Xiaolu WEI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):152-161
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the material basis of the anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanism of action of Bushen Tongdu prescription (BSTDP). MethodsThe chemical components of BSTDP and its blood-absorbed components in vivo were systematically identified by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-linear ion trap-electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-LIT-Orbitrap-MS). Network pharmacology was employed to screen blood-absorbed bioactive components and potential targets of this formula. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of core targets was constructed to conduct enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was further utilized to verify the binding affinity between key components and targets. The inflammatory model was established and verified in vivo by using a transgenic zebrafish Tg (mpx: GFP). At three days post-fertilization (3 dpf), larvae of zebrafish were randomly assigned to blank group, model group, positive drug dexamethasone acetate group (75 μmol·L-1), and BSTDP groups with low, medium, and high doses (500, 1 000, and 2 000 mg·L-1). The distribution and quantity of neutrophils in the yolk sac region were observed under a fluorescence microscope. The mRNA expression levels of key genes in the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and inflammatory factors including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). ResultsA total of 120 chemical components were identified in BSTDP, among which 26 original components were confirmed by using serum pharmacochemical methods. A total of 227 common targets linking rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the blood-absorbed components were screened by network pharmacology. It is suggested that pseudobrucine, vomicine, sinapine, rehmannioside, cinnamyl alcohol glycoside, and methylephedrine exert anti-inflammatory effects by acting on core targets including protein kinase B1 (Akt1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), TLR4, mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA), thereby modulating multiple signaling pathways such as TLR4 and NF-κB. In vivo verification in zebrafish demonstrates that the maximum tolerable concentration of Bushen Tongdu Formula is 2 000 mg·L-1. Compared to those in the blank group, zebrafish in the model group showed a significantly higher number of neutrophils in the yolk sac region (P<0.01) and rising mRNA levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (P<0.01). Compared to that in the model group, the number of neutrophils was significantly reduced in BSTDP groups with medium and high doses, as well as the dexamethasone acetate group (P<0.05, P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the low dose group. The mRNA expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionThis paper identifies the material basis of the efficacy of BSTDP, demonstrating that the formula can exert an anti-inflammatory effect through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway. The results provide scientific experimental evidence for its further clinical application.
7.Robot-assisted therapy for upper limb of stoke: a bibliometrics analysis
Qing QIN ; Ye LIU ; Haiyan YE ; Chen LI ; Di CHEN
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice 2025;31(1):85-98
ObjectiveTo analyze the advance of robot-assisted therapy in upper limb functions of patients with stroke. MethodsA search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection for literature on the application of robot-assisted therapy in upper limb functions of patients with stroke, from inception to November, 2024. Citespace 6.4.R1 was used to perform bibliometric analysis, including countries of origin, authors, institutions, subject areas, keywords and citation relationships, and knowledge mapping techniques were also utilized. ResultsA total of 198 publications in English were included, showing an upward trend in publication volume. China, Italy and the United States ranked highest in publication counts, with the University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Italy contributing the most. Among authors, Giulio Rosati had the highest number of publications. The top three co-occurring keywords were motor recovery, activities of daily living and neuroplasticity. Keywords with the highest citation bursts included rehabilitation robotics, virtual reality and upper limb rehabilitation. Keyword clustering identified four primary research directions: improving upper limb motor function, enhancing sensory function, increasing activities of daily living and promoting brain neuroplasticity. The research spanned several disciplines, including basic medicine, clinical medicine, biomedical engineering, rehabilitation medicine and therapy, and control science and engineering. ConclusionRobot-assisted therapy for the upper limb function in stroke patients constitutes an innovative rehabilitation approach. Current research hotspots focus on both the design of robot-assisted therapy and their effectiveness. Findings suggest that robot-assisted occupational therapy can effectively improve upper limb function, facilitate neuroplasticity, enhance activities of daily living reliant on the upper limbs, and boost patients motivation and confidence in rehabilitation. Future research should emphasize integrating robot-assisted therapy with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to explore its potential in precise rehabilitation strategies and the development of personalized rehabilitation programs.
8.Herbal Textual Research on Malvae Semen in Famous Classical Formulas
Dongxue CHEN ; Yibo LIU ; Yangyang YU ; Guoshuai LYU ; Huili WU ; Xinle HAN ; Yue TAN ; Minhui LI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):252-264
The medicinal use of Malvae Semen has a long history. In this paper, by consulting the ancient materia medica, prescription, agronomy, literature and other aspects of the classics, the name, origin, evolution of scientific name, quality, harvesting and processing, functions and indications and others of Malvae Semen were systematically sorted out and verified, so as to provide a basis for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing this herb. According to the textual research, Shennong Bencaojing began to use Dongkuizi as the correct name, which was used in the past dynasties, and there were also aliases such as Kuicaizi, Huacai, and Kuizi. Through the original research, it can be seen that Kuicai is the mainstream original plant of Malvae Semen, that is, Malva verticillata var. crispa, the Alcea rosea and M. cathayensis are also used. In modern times, the seeds of Abutilon theophrasti have been passed off as Malvae Semen, while the seeds of M. verticillata var. crispa have rarely been used in medicine. And Abutili Semen has been another medicinal material with different efficacy since the collection of Newly Revised Materia Medica in the Tang dynasty. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cultivation of Kuicai has been decreasing, while A. theophrasti is more common and easy to obtain, and Abutili Semen and Malvae Semen are similar in morphology and confused, which should be corrected. In addition, Malvae Fructus is a Mongolian customary medicinal herb, which is different from the traditional use of seeds in traditional Chinese medicine. Kuicai, as an important vegetable in history, was widely cultivated and gradually shrunk after the Song dynasty, it is now mainly produced in southern provinces. The quality evaluation of Malvae Semen is better for those with dry bodies, full grain, grayish brown color, no mud, and no impurities. The harvesting is generally in the autumn and winter. After drying, it is seeded, sieved peel and impurities, mashed, or slightly stir-fried to yellow-white color with gentle fire. It is sweet, cold and slippery in nature and taste, with the main effects of laxation, diuresis, lactation and elimination of swelling. The efficacy of Abutili Semen is clearing heat and removing toxicity, promoting diuresis and removing nebula, the efficacy is quite different from that of Malvae Semen. Based on the results of textual research, it is suggested that M. verticillata var. crispa should be used as the medicinal source of Malvae Semen in the development of famous classical formulas, the corresponding processing methods should be selected according to the requirements of drug processing in the formulas, while the raw products are recommended to be used if the processing is not specified.
9.Clinical efficacy of escitalopram combined with transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation therapy for patients with major depressive disorder and its effect on plasma IL-6 and IL-10 levels
Jin LI ; Jinbo SUN ; Di WU ; Wenjun WU ; Runzhu SUN ; Shanshan XUE ; Yapeng CUI ; Huaning WANG ; Yihuan CHEN
Sichuan Mental Health 2025;38(1):7-13
BackgroundInvasive vagus nerve stimulation therapy has been approved for the adjunctive treatment of treatment-resistant depression, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), whereas the efficacy of non-invasive transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation (tcVNS) in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and its impact on plasma inflammatory factors remain unclear. ObjectiveTo observe the effect of escitaloprom combined with tcVNS on the status of depression, anxiety and sleep quality as well as the plasma levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in MDD patients, in order to provide references for the recovery and treatment of MDD patients. MethodsFrom August 21, 2019 to April 17, 2024, 45 patients who met the diagnostic criteria for MDD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) were recruited from the psychosomatic outpatient clinic of the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University. Subjects were divided into study group (n=23) and control group (n=22) using random number table method. All patients were treated with escitalopram. On this basis, study group added a 30-minute tcVNS therapy once a day for 4 weeks. While control group was given corresponding sham stimulation, and the duration of each stimulation lasted 30 seconds. Before and after 4 weeks of treatment, Hamilton Depression Scale-17 item (HAMD-17) was used to assess depressive symptoms, and HAMD-17 anxiety/somatization subfactor and insomnia subfactor were used to assess patients' anxiety/somatization symptoms and sleep quality. Levels of plasma IL-6 and IL-10 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). ResultsThe generalized estimating equation model yielded a significant time effect for HAMD-17 total score, anxiety/somatization subfactor score and insomnia subfactor score in both groups (Wald χ2=315.226, 495.481, 82.420, P<0.01). After 4 weeks of treatment, HAMD-17 total score and anxiety/somatization subfactor score of study group were lower than those of control group, with statistically significant differences (Wald χ2=4.967, 32.543, P<0.05 or 0.01), while no statistically significant difference was found in the insomnia subfactor score between two groups (Wald χ2=0.819, P=0.366). Significant time effects were reported on plasma IL-6 and IL-10 levels in both groups (Wald χ2=21.792, 5.242, P<0.05 or 0.01). Compared with baseline data, a reduction in plasma IL-6 levels was detected in both groups (Wald χ2=22.015, 6.803, P<0.01), and an increase in plasma IL-10 levels was reported in study group (Wald χ2=5.118, P=0.024) after 4 weeks of treatment. ConclusionEscitalopram combined with tcVNS therapy is effective in improving depressive symptoms, anxiety/somatization symptoms and sleep quality in patients with MDD. Additionally, it helps reduce plasma IL-6 levels and increase IL-10 levels. [Funded by Shaanxi Provincial Key Research and Development Program-General Project (number, 2023-YBSF-185), www.clinicaltrials.gov number, NCT04037111]
10.Herbal Textual Research on Malvae Semen in Famous Classical Formulas
Dongxue CHEN ; Yibo LIU ; Yangyang YU ; Guoshuai LYU ; Huili WU ; Xinle HAN ; Yue TAN ; Minhui LI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):252-264
The medicinal use of Malvae Semen has a long history. In this paper, by consulting the ancient materia medica, prescription, agronomy, literature and other aspects of the classics, the name, origin, evolution of scientific name, quality, harvesting and processing, functions and indications and others of Malvae Semen were systematically sorted out and verified, so as to provide a basis for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing this herb. According to the textual research, Shennong Bencaojing began to use Dongkuizi as the correct name, which was used in the past dynasties, and there were also aliases such as Kuicaizi, Huacai, and Kuizi. Through the original research, it can be seen that Kuicai is the mainstream original plant of Malvae Semen, that is, Malva verticillata var. crispa, the Alcea rosea and M. cathayensis are also used. In modern times, the seeds of Abutilon theophrasti have been passed off as Malvae Semen, while the seeds of M. verticillata var. crispa have rarely been used in medicine. And Abutili Semen has been another medicinal material with different efficacy since the collection of Newly Revised Materia Medica in the Tang dynasty. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cultivation of Kuicai has been decreasing, while A. theophrasti is more common and easy to obtain, and Abutili Semen and Malvae Semen are similar in morphology and confused, which should be corrected. In addition, Malvae Fructus is a Mongolian customary medicinal herb, which is different from the traditional use of seeds in traditional Chinese medicine. Kuicai, as an important vegetable in history, was widely cultivated and gradually shrunk after the Song dynasty, it is now mainly produced in southern provinces. The quality evaluation of Malvae Semen is better for those with dry bodies, full grain, grayish brown color, no mud, and no impurities. The harvesting is generally in the autumn and winter. After drying, it is seeded, sieved peel and impurities, mashed, or slightly stir-fried to yellow-white color with gentle fire. It is sweet, cold and slippery in nature and taste, with the main effects of laxation, diuresis, lactation and elimination of swelling. The efficacy of Abutili Semen is clearing heat and removing toxicity, promoting diuresis and removing nebula, the efficacy is quite different from that of Malvae Semen. Based on the results of textual research, it is suggested that M. verticillata var. crispa should be used as the medicinal source of Malvae Semen in the development of famous classical formulas, the corresponding processing methods should be selected according to the requirements of drug processing in the formulas, while the raw products are recommended to be used if the processing is not specified.


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