1.Mechanism of action of estrogen deficiency in autoimmune hepatitis via the intestinal barrier
Mingzhu SONG ; Ling LI ; Jinxia ZHU ; Shu ZHANG ; Guangwei LIU
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2026;42(2):438-444
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an immune-mediated chronic liver inflammatory disease with unknown pathogenesis, and intestinal barrier dysfunction is considered an important factor. Meanwhile, there are sex and age differences in the incidence rate of AIH, suggesting that hormone may be involved in regulation. On this basis, this article focuses on the association between estrogen, intestinal barrier, and immune homeostasis, systematically reviews the evidence that estrogen deficiency disrupts intestinal barrier homeostasis, and further summarizes the potential mechanism of estrogen in regulating the development and progression of AIH via intestinal barrier.
2.Effects and mechanisms of isoginkgetin on osteoclastogenesis
Guangwei WEN ; Yinghao ZHEN ; Taikeng ZHENG ; Shuyi ZHOU ; Guoye MO ; Tengpeng ZHOU ; Haishan LI ; Yiyi LAI
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(6):1348-1358
BACKGROUND:During bone remodeling,bone formation and bone resorption are spatially and temporally coordinated,involving intricate interactions between osteoclasts and osteoblasts.Isoginkgetin,a flavonoid found in Ginkgo biloba,has a wide range of anticancer activity and anti-reactive oxygen species activity;however,the effect of isoginkgetin on osteoclast differentiation is unknown.OBJECTIVE:To study the effect and mechanism of action of isoginkgetin on osteoclastogenesis.METHODS:In vitro studies were performed on mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages,and cell counting kit-8 cytotoxicity assay was used to detect the effect of isoginkgetin on cell viability of bone marrow-derived macrophages.Macrophage colony-stimulating factor and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand were used to induce the differentiation of bone marrow-derived macrophages to osteoclasts.Network pharmacology and molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to predict the processes and targets of the effects of isoginkgetin on the differentiation of osteoclasts.Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and F-actin staining were used to detect the effects of isoginkgetin on the differentiation and function of osteoclasts.Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the effects of isoginkgetin on the expression of genes and proteins related to osteoclast differentiation,reactive oxygen species,and PI3K/AKT pathways.Fluorescent probes were used to detect cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels.Flow cytometry technology was used to detect reactive oxygen species levels in cells.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)Network pharmacology results showed that isoginkgetin affected osteoporosis mainly through the PI3K-AKT pathway and cellular response to drugs and hypoxia,and GSK3β,ESR1,MCL1 and CCNA2 were the key targets.(2)Cell counting kit-8 and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining results showed that isoginkgetin at 8 μmol/L had the most significant inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis in vitro,and F-actin results showed that isoginkgetin inhibited osteoclast cytoskeletal actin ring formation in a concentration-dependent manner.(3)Molecular dynamics simulations showed that isoginkgetin bound well to osteoclastogenesis marker proteins(NFATc1,c-Fos,CTSK,and MMP9).Western blot and RT-PCR results indicated that isoginkgetin inhibited the expression of osteoclastogenesis marker proteins and genes(NFATc1,c-Fos,CTSK,and MMP9).(4)Western blot results showed that isoginkgetin inhibited the phosphorylation level of PI3K/AKT/GSK3β and suppressed osteoclastogenesis by activating the PI3K-AKT-GSK3β pathway.(5)The results of reactive oxygen species assay showed that isoginkgetin significantly reduced receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand-induced cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production,and inhibited the differentiation of bone marrow-derived macrophages to osteoclasts.
3.Regulatory effect of ten-eleven translocation 2-mediated epigenetics and the interaction between gut microbiota and immunity on autoimmune hepatitis
Lifen WANG ; Ling LI ; Guangwei LIU
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2026;42(3):697-703
Ten-eleven translocation 2 (TET2), as a core enzyme in epigenetic regulation, dynamically regulates the differentiation and function of CD4+ T cells by mediating DNA demethylation. Recent studies have shown that TET2 deficiency can promote the progression of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) by disrupting the Th17/Treg balance and activating inflammatory signals along the gut-liver axis. This article systematically reviews the bridging role of TET2 between CD4+ T cells and gut microbiota, explores the molecular mechanisms by which it drives AIH through the gut microbiota-epigenetics-immunity network, and discusses the potential intervention strategies targeting the TET2-microbiota axis.
4.Effects and mechanisms of isoginkgetin on osteoclastogenesis
Guangwei WEN ; Yinghao ZHEN ; Taikeng ZHENG ; Shuyi ZHOU ; Guoye MO ; Tengpeng ZHOU ; Haishan LI ; Yiyi LAI
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(6):1348-1358
BACKGROUND:During bone remodeling,bone formation and bone resorption are spatially and temporally coordinated,involving intricate interactions between osteoclasts and osteoblasts.Isoginkgetin,a flavonoid found in Ginkgo biloba,has a wide range of anticancer activity and anti-reactive oxygen species activity;however,the effect of isoginkgetin on osteoclast differentiation is unknown.OBJECTIVE:To study the effect and mechanism of action of isoginkgetin on osteoclastogenesis.METHODS:In vitro studies were performed on mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages,and cell counting kit-8 cytotoxicity assay was used to detect the effect of isoginkgetin on cell viability of bone marrow-derived macrophages.Macrophage colony-stimulating factor and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand were used to induce the differentiation of bone marrow-derived macrophages to osteoclasts.Network pharmacology and molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to predict the processes and targets of the effects of isoginkgetin on the differentiation of osteoclasts.Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and F-actin staining were used to detect the effects of isoginkgetin on the differentiation and function of osteoclasts.Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the effects of isoginkgetin on the expression of genes and proteins related to osteoclast differentiation,reactive oxygen species,and PI3K/AKT pathways.Fluorescent probes were used to detect cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels.Flow cytometry technology was used to detect reactive oxygen species levels in cells.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)Network pharmacology results showed that isoginkgetin affected osteoporosis mainly through the PI3K-AKT pathway and cellular response to drugs and hypoxia,and GSK3β,ESR1,MCL1 and CCNA2 were the key targets.(2)Cell counting kit-8 and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining results showed that isoginkgetin at 8 μmol/L had the most significant inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis in vitro,and F-actin results showed that isoginkgetin inhibited osteoclast cytoskeletal actin ring formation in a concentration-dependent manner.(3)Molecular dynamics simulations showed that isoginkgetin bound well to osteoclastogenesis marker proteins(NFATc1,c-Fos,CTSK,and MMP9).Western blot and RT-PCR results indicated that isoginkgetin inhibited the expression of osteoclastogenesis marker proteins and genes(NFATc1,c-Fos,CTSK,and MMP9).(4)Western blot results showed that isoginkgetin inhibited the phosphorylation level of PI3K/AKT/GSK3β and suppressed osteoclastogenesis by activating the PI3K-AKT-GSK3β pathway.(5)The results of reactive oxygen species assay showed that isoginkgetin significantly reduced receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand-induced cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production,and inhibited the differentiation of bone marrow-derived macrophages to osteoclasts.
5.Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulates NF-κB Signaling Pathway for Treating CP/CPPS: A Review
Pengdong YIN ; Guangwei JIN ; Shenglong LI ; Ganggang LU ; Yuanbo ZHAO ; Yongqiang ZHAO ; Xixiang LI ; Jiuyun ZHOU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(17):301-313
Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a prevalent and complex condition in urology and one of the leading causes of chronic pelvic pain. Due to its prolonged duration and recurrent episodes,CP/CPPS significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Abnormal activation of the nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway influences pathological processes such as the inflammatory response,oxidative stress,apoptosis,and tissue fibrosis in the body,thereby promoting the progression of CP/CPPS. Currently,Western medical therapies include antibiotics,pain relievers,α-blockers,and physiotherapy,yet they still fail to halt the pathological process of CP/CPPS. Research indicates that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can modulate the NF-κB pathway through a multi-target and multi-pathway approach,effectively reducing prostate tissue damage and prostate index and alleviating pain and lower urinary tract symptoms. On the basis of existing studies,this paper systematically examines the intrinsic connection between CP/CPPS and the NF-κB pathway and summarizes the effects of TCM active ingredients (e.g.,emodin,quercetin,and gentiopicroside),extracts (e.g.,Oldenlandia diffusa extract),classical medidcinal pairs (e.g.,Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex-Smilacis Glabrae Rhizoma),and compound prescriptions and Chinese patent medicines (e.g.,Qianliexiao decoction,Jiedu Huoxue decoction,Qianlie Shutong capsules) in treating CP/CPPS by regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. The review of the research findings on treating CP/CPPS through this pathway aims to offer insights for clinical practice of TCM in the prevention and treatment of CP/CPPS,as well as to provide references for basic research and new drug development in this domain.
6.Research progress in curcumin nanomedicines
Zhangran ZHU ; Ran XIE ; Lingyu JIA ; Sihan SHEN ; Yiqun WANG ; Yu ZHAO ; Guangwei ZHU ; Weiyan CAI ; Jinjing LI ; Umer AWAN ; Gejing DE ; Shujing ZHOU ; Qinghe ZHAO
Science of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;4(3):232-243
Curcumin (Cur), a natural polyphenolic compound extracted from the rhizomes of plants belonging to the Zingiberaceae and Araceae families, has attracted considerable interest for its remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. Extensive studies have focused on its potential in treating various diseases, including cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders. However, its clinical application has been hampered by inherent physicochemical challenges, such as poor aqueous solubility, short half-life, and low bioavailability. To address these challenges, nanodrug delivery systems have been developed to improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of curcumin, thereby enhancing its therapeutic efficacy. This review summarizes the pharmacological activities and underlying mechanisms of curcumin, encompassing its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and antibacterial effects. Furthermore, it highlights the significant advancements achieved through the development of curcumin-based nanomedicines. By synthesizing current findings, this review aims to provide insights that may inspire innovative strategies for the future design and broader applications of curcumin nanomedicines.
7.The impact of iron overload and ferroptosis on the development and progression of autoimmune hepatitis and their mechanism of action
Bolin WANG ; Ling LI ; Jinxia ZHU ; Jiawen ZHANG ; Zhigao LUO ; Guangwei LIU
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2025;41(11):2384-2389
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory disease caused by immune dysfunction, and its pathogenic mechanism remains unclear. In recent years, a large number of studies have shown that iron homeostasis imbalance and ferroptosis are closely associated with the pathogenesis and progression of AIH. This article reviews the pathological mechanism and impact of iron overload and ferroptosis in AIH, in order to provide new insights and theoretical bases for research on the mechanism and clinical treatment of AIH.
8.Application of 22G needle-guided suture to transcutaneous orbital septum fat release and transposition over the orbital rim
Qinghua LI ; Qiong GAO ; Guangwei ZENG ; Xinjian HUANG ; Yongfei XU ; Shuang CHEN ; Yongqiang REN
Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2025;41(1):32-37
Objective:To explore and analyze the feasibility and efficacy of the 22G needle-guided suture for orbital septum fat flap fixation on the periosteum.Methods:The retrospective study was conducted. From January 2022 to November 2023, patients with tear trough deformity and eyelid bags underwent surgery of releasing the orbicularis retaining ligament (ORL) complex, orbital septum fat pad combined with 22G needle-guided suture in Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology. Postoperative follow-up was conducted to observe the occurrence of complications. The lacrimal depression deformity was classified according to the Hirmand standard and the degree of lower eyelid bags was graded to evaluate the surgical outcome. Patients were evaluated their satisfaction using the visual analogue scale (very dissatisfied, dissatisfied, average, satisfied, very satisfied).Results:A total of 32 patients (30 females and 2 males) were included in this study. The age range was 31-62 years old with an average of 50.2 years. All patients were followed up for 6 months postoperatively. None of the patients had any severe complications, such as inferior eyelid ectropion, inferior eyelid retraction, scar hyperplasia, and diplopia. Four patients showed mild eyelid-eyeball separation, two patients had conjunctival edema, and all recovered in 1 month. The orbital fat protrusion, tear trough depression deformity, and lower eyelid skin laxity were significantly improved compared to before the operation. Postoperative satisfaction was 22 cases, very satisfied 10 cases, and patient satisfaction rate was 100% (32/32) after surgery.Conclusion:The method of 22G needle-guided suture to fix orbital septum fat pad represents a technically feasible, easy, and suitable for promotion.
9.Analysis of safety and efficacy of the modified ALPPS in patients with primary liver cancer
Weijun WANG ; Jinzhen XU ; Yongsheng CHENG ; Guangwei NA ; Keji HE ; Rui LI ; Hongxia YUAN
Chinese Journal of Hepatobiliary Surgery 2025;31(11):801-805
Objective:To analyze the efficacy and safety of modified associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) in the treatment of patients with primary liver cancer.Methods:Clinical data of 83 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing hemihepatectomy in the Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Tumor Surgery of Gansu Provincial Cancer Hospital between January 2022 and November 2023 were retrospectively analyzed, including 53 males and 30 females, aged (54.0±6.5) years. According to the treatment protocol, patients were divided into the control group ( n=41), in which patients underwent traditional ALPPS, and the observation group ( n=42), in which patients underwent modified ALPPS (occlusion of portal venous branch using vascular clips, combined with radiofrequency ablation for physical separation of the diseased lobe, without liver mobilization). The completion rate of staged surgery, interval between surgeries, future liver remnant (FLR) growth rate at 7 days after first-stage surgery, alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels at 5 days after fisrt-stage surgery, and postoperative complications (ascites, nausea, and vomiting, etc.) were compared between the groups. Results:The completion rate of staged surgery was 95.2% (40/42) in the observation group and 90.2% (37/41) in the control group ( χ2=0.62, P=0.431). The ALT and AST levels at 5 days after first-stage surgery were (550.4±86.0) U/L and (327.1±52.8) U/L in the observation group, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in the control group (861.6±106.3) U/L and (533.8±73.7) U/L, respectively ( t=13.13 and P<0.001, t=12.93 and P<0.001). The FLR growth rate were higher in the observation group than that in the control group [(80.4±10.3)% vs (49.3±5.7)%; t=13.13, P<0.001] and the interval between procedures were also shorter in the observation group (10.9±2.1 vs 22.4±4.8, d; t=9.65, P<0.001). The intraoperative blood loss of the first-stage surgery was lower in the observation group than that in the control group (350.5±45.2 vs 825.5±21.7, ml; t=21.43, P<0.001). The total complication rates after the first-stage surgery were 11.9% (5/42) in the observation group and 19.5% (8/41) in the control group, while after the second-stage surgery, the complication rates were 7.5% (3/40) and 18.9% (7/37), respectively, with no statistically significant differences ( χ2=0.65 and P=0.419, χ2=1.81 and 0.177, respectively). Conclusion:The modified ALPPS offers better postoperative liver function, reduced surgical trauma, accelerated FLR growth, and a shorter interval between procedures, demonstrating a favorable safety in the treatment of primary liver cancer.
10.The relationship between preoperative pulmonary vascular resistance and prognosis in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device implantation: a single-center report
Junjiang LIU ; Dingqian LIU ; Guangwei HAO ; Zhe LUO ; Kefang GUO ; Lili DONG ; Xin LI ; Guowei TU ; Chunsheng WANG ; Xiaoning SUN
Chinese Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2025;41(9):556-560
Objective:To compare the impact of preoperative pulmonary vascular resistance(PVR) levels on the prognosis of patients undergoing left ventricular assist device(LVAD)implantation.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 33 patients among September 2021 and June 2024, who underwent LVAD implantation at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University. 29 males and 4 females, with a mean age of(53.61±9.65)years old. The cohort included 30 cases of dilated cardiomyopathy, 2 cases of ischemic cardiomyopathy, and 1 case of noncompaction cardiomyopathy. Patients were grouped based on a preoperative PVR threshold of 3 WU, Preoperative data from Swan-Ganz catheterization, liver and renal function indicators, as well as other relevant clinical parameters were recorded. Patients were followed up to assess differences in survival outcomes.Results:Preoperative PVR was elevated in 18 cases(60%)of the patients, with a mean preoperative PVR of(3.16±1.71)WU. Immediate postoperative right heart catheterization was performed in 20 patients, showing a significant reduction in PVR from(3.85±1.72)WU preoperatively to(1.80±1.38)WU postoperatively( P<0.05). The cardiac index improved significantly from(1.95±0.63)L·min -1·m -2 preoperatively to(4.25±1.26)L·min -1·m -2 postoperatively( P<0.001). The mean follow-up duration was(14.78±12.06)months, no significant difference in postoperative survival was observed between the two groups(100% vs. 80%, P=0.667). Conclusion:Increased pulmonary resistance is often secondary to left heart dysfunction. After the implantation of a LVAD, pulmonary resistance can be improved. For patients with relatively normal right heart function before surgery, elevated pulmonary resistance does not affect the short-term outcomes of the implantation.

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