1.Mechanistic Interpretation of Zheng’s San Qi San Powder in Treating Skeletal Muscle Injury via Bioinformatics Prediction, Chemical Analysis and Experimental Verification
Ding-Rui WANG ; Yun-Xin LIU ; Jun-Jie XU ; Liu YANG ; Jia-Hao LÜ ; Cheng-Yuan XING ; Lei LÜ ; Bei-Bei QIE
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(4):1028-1047
ObjectiveZheng’s San Qi San (ZSQS) power, a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, is used for treating soft tissue injuries involving muscles, tendons, and ligaments. However, its underlying therapeutic mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to screen and identify pharmaceutically active ingredients and their candidate biomolecule targets, and further elucidate the molecular mechanism of ZSQS in the treatment of skeletal muscle injury. MethodsNetwork pharmacology was employed to construct “ZSQS-component-target”, “protein-protein interaction (PPI)” and “active ingredient-core protein-pathway” networks to predict the key active ingredients and potential core targets of ZSQS for skeletal muscle injury. The predicted results were then validated via microarray data from the GEO database. Molecular docking was then performed to assess the binding ability between the screened active ingredients of ZSQS and the candidate core targets. Moreover, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used for qualitative and quantitative analysis to verify the active components of the drug and ZSQS serum. Finally, an animal model of eccentric exercise-induced skeletal muscle injury and a myotube cell model of oxidative stress-induced injury were established to validate the effects of ZSQS and its interventional effects on the biological functions of critical targets, thereby demonstrating the potential therapeutic mechanism of ZSQS. ResultsAmong the 111 active components identified in ZSQS and their corresponding 204 targets related to the skeletal muscle injury repair process, 14 core targets (including AKT1) and 4 core active components (quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and β‑sitosterol) were screened out, while the corresponding metabolites of quercetin, luteolin and kaempferol were detected in the ZSQS serum. Among these targets, 5 candidate genes (IL-6, CASP3, HIF1A, STAT3, and JUN) overlapped with the differential expression screening results with GEO data, and IL-6 was confirmed to be enriched in the PI3K/AKT pathway. Combined with the prediction results of the AKT expression levels, these findings suggest that the phosphorylation level of AKT1 plays a core role in the therapeutic mechanism of ZSQS. Molecular docking analysis further revealed that the PH domain of AKT1 had high binding energy with all 4 core active components, as verified by LC-MS. Finally, animal model studies have shown the promoting effect of ZSQS administration on skeletal muscle injury repair and its possible antioxidant damage mechanism. Cell model studies further demonstrated that ZSQS-containing serum, core active ingredient combination therapy, and quercetin monomer could increase the phosphorylation level of AKT, promote the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, upregulate the expression of downstream antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPx, and GR), and inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNF-α), thereby alleviating oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. ConclusionZSQS alleviates skeletal muscle injury mainly by activating the AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway, enhancing cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. The results of this study provide a scientific basis for the clinical application and modernized development of ZSQS.
2.Visualization analysis of literature on the effect of lipid metabolism on osteoporosis
Jie HUANG ; Hao ZENG ; Wenchi WANG ; Zhucheng LYU ; Wei CUI
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(6):1558-1568
BACKGROUND:Studies have shown that lipid metabolism and related diseases can affect the development of osteoporosis.OBJECTIVE:Using bibliometric visualization analysis software to analyze and summarize the frontier content and research hotspots in the field of lipid metabolism affecting osteoporosis.METHODS:Using the Web of Science core collection database as the retrieval platform,relevant literature regarding the effect of lipid metabolism on osteoporosis from 2004 to 2024 was retrieved.VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used for bibliometric and visual analyses.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:A total of 1 277 articles were included,and the number of articles on the effect of lipid metabolism on osteoporosis at home and abroad was increasing year by year.The number of articles published in China was 417,ranking first,and the United States was 243,ranking second.Shanghai Jiao Tong University ranked first with 30 articles.Professor Rosen Clifford J from Tufts University School of Medicine and Professor Recker Robert R from Clayton University were the most cited authors.The number of documents published in BONE in the Netherlands ranked first,and the JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM in England was the most cited journal.Bone mineral density,bone metabolism,menopause,and obesity were the core keywords,and they were also research hotspots in this field.The above results show that in the past 20 years,research in the field of lipid metabolism affecting osteoporosis has focused on the role of abnormal lipid metabolism in bone mineral density and bone metabolism,thereby regulating osteoporosis and post-menopause osteoporosis.Clarifying the pathway of this mechanism and"bone-lipid balance"is the future research idea and direction.
3.Visualization analysis of literature on the effect of lipid metabolism on osteoporosis
Jie HUANG ; Hao ZENG ; Wenchi WANG ; Zhucheng LYU ; Wei CUI
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2026;30(6):1558-1568
BACKGROUND:Studies have shown that lipid metabolism and related diseases can affect the development of osteoporosis.OBJECTIVE:Using bibliometric visualization analysis software to analyze and summarize the frontier content and research hotspots in the field of lipid metabolism affecting osteoporosis.METHODS:Using the Web of Science core collection database as the retrieval platform,relevant literature regarding the effect of lipid metabolism on osteoporosis from 2004 to 2024 was retrieved.VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used for bibliometric and visual analyses.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:A total of 1 277 articles were included,and the number of articles on the effect of lipid metabolism on osteoporosis at home and abroad was increasing year by year.The number of articles published in China was 417,ranking first,and the United States was 243,ranking second.Shanghai Jiao Tong University ranked first with 30 articles.Professor Rosen Clifford J from Tufts University School of Medicine and Professor Recker Robert R from Clayton University were the most cited authors.The number of documents published in BONE in the Netherlands ranked first,and the JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM in England was the most cited journal.Bone mineral density,bone metabolism,menopause,and obesity were the core keywords,and they were also research hotspots in this field.The above results show that in the past 20 years,research in the field of lipid metabolism affecting osteoporosis has focused on the role of abnormal lipid metabolism in bone mineral density and bone metabolism,thereby regulating osteoporosis and post-menopause osteoporosis.Clarifying the pathway of this mechanism and"bone-lipid balance"is the future research idea and direction.
4.Application of red blood cell apheresis in a case of juvenile polycythemia vera
Jie YANG ; Chengxin ZHANG ; Xinxin HAO ; Simeng WU ; Qiushi WANG
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2026;39(5):673-676
Objective: To retrospectively investigate the clinical efficacy, safety, and management experience of a patient diagnosed with polycythemia vera (PV) at the age of 3 who underwent regular erythrocytapheresis for 7 years starting at the age of 10. Methods: Treatment was initiated when the patient's hematocrit was≥50%. The goal was to reduce the hematocrit to below 40%; the removal volume was calculated as 10%-15% of the total red blood cell mass, and an equal volume of normal saline was supplemented during the procedure. Pre-treatment precautions included avoiding fasting and high-fat diets. Post-treatment measures included lying flat for 30 minutes, reducing strenuous exercise for 2–3 days, and rechecking complete blood count 2–5 days after the procedure. During the procedure, adverse reactions such as palpitations, dyspnea, hypotension, and convulsions were monitored. Follow-up was conducted after 3 days to assess any delayed adverse effects. Results: As of August 2025, the patient had undergone a total of 16 erythrocytapheresis sessions. The average volume ranged from 212 to 500 mL. The frequency was 1 to 4 times annually. Post-procedure, hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) were effectively controlled. Conclusion: Continuous erythrocytapheresis can effectively control Hb and Hct levels in PV patients, preventing adverse effects from the primary disease. Erythrocytapheresis demonstrates efficacy with minimal adverse reactions and can be used as a routine therapeutic technique for PV patients.
5.Impact of "Internet +" empowerment education based on timing it right on psychological craving, anxiety symptoms and relapse rates in patients with alcohol dependence
Hao WANG ; Wei LI ; Wen'ge ZHEN ; Yuanyuan LI ; Jie LIU
Sichuan Mental Health 2025;38(1):34-40
BackgroundAlcohol dependence patients are prone to relapse after their attempts to quit drinking, which poses a considerable threat to their physical and mental health and creates a heavy burden on their families. Currently, empowerment education is increasingly being utilized in the rehabilitation management of chronic diseases, but there remains a striking lack of empirical research on the application of "Internet +" empowerment education based on timing it right in alcohol dependence patients. ObjectiveTo explore the impact of "Internet +" empowerment education based on timing it right on patients with alcohol dependence, in order to maximize the reduction in relapse rates, craving for alcohol and severity of anxiety symptoms. MethodsA total of 120 patients who were hospitalized in the Department of Addiction Medicine, Hebei Provincial Mental Health Center from May 2022 to April 2023 and met the diagnostic criteria for alcohol dependence in the International Classification of Diseases, tenth edition (ICD-10) were enrolled, and they were classified into study group (n=62) and control group (n=58) using random number table methods. Both groups received standard medication and routine care. Additionally, study group underwent a 6-month "Internet +" empowerment education based on timing it right. At baseline, all subjects were assessed using Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS) and Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). Three months and six months after intervention, assessments were conducted using PACS, SAS and Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST). ResultsThe relapse rates after three and six months of intervention were both lower in study group than those in control group, with statistically significant differences (χ2=8.575, 8.828, P<0.01). ANOVA with repeated measures on PACS total score and scores of each item revealed a significant time effect, group effect and time×group interaction effect (F=159.714~837.751, 84.645~393.606, 24.302~137.896, P<0.01). And significant time effect, group effect and time×group interaction effect were also reported on SAS scores (F=166.237, 65.325, 24.724, P<0.01). Conclusion"Internet +" empowerment education based on timing it right may help reduce relapse rates, alcohol cravings and severity of anxiety symptoms among patients with alcohol dependence. [Funded by 2023 Annual Hebei Provincial Medical Scientific Research Project Plan (number, 20231537)]
6.Mechanism of Qingrun Prescription-containing Serum Improving Insulin Resistance in HepG2 Cells via Branched-chain α-keto Acid Dehydrogenase Regulation of Branched-chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)/mTOR Pathway
Xiangwei BU ; Xiaohui HAO ; Runyun ZHANG ; Meizhen ZHANG ; Ze WANG ; Haoshuo WANG ; Jie WANG ; Qing NI ; Lan LIN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(9):90-98
ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of Qingrun prescription(QRP)-containing serum on improving insulin resistance in HepG2 cells and its potential mechanisms. MethodsAn insulin resistance model was established in HepG2 cells with 1×10-6 mol·L-1 insulin. Branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) gene silencing was achieved using siRNA, and the cells were divided into 8 groups: normal group, model group (1×10-6 mol·L-1 insulin), metformin group (1 mmol·L-1 metformin), high-, medium-, and low-dose QRP groups (20%, 10%, and 5% QRP-containing serum, respectively), QRP + siRNA-silenced BCKDH (si-BCKDH) group (10% QRP-containing serum + si-BCKDH), and QRP + si-NC group (10% QRP-containing serum + si-NC). Glucose levels in the supernatant were measured with a glucose assay kit, while glycogen content was assessed using a glycogen assay kit. Levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and branched-chain keto acids (BCKAs) were determined using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). mRNA transcription and protein expression levels of BCKDH, dishevelled, Egl-10, and pleckstrin (DEP) domain-containing mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-interacting protein (DEPTOR), mTOR, and ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) and Western blot. ResultsCompared to the normal group, the model group exhibited significantly decreased glucose consumption and glycogen content, increased levels of BCAAs and BCKAs, downregulated expression of BCKDH and DEPTOR, and upregulated mTOR and S6K1 expression (P<0.01). In comparison to the model group, QRP treatment at all doses significantly enhanced glucose consumption and glycogen content while reducing BCAAs and BCKAs levels (P<0.01). The high- and medium-dose QRP groups demonstrated significant upregulation of BCKDH mRNA transcription and protein expression, as well as DEPTOR mRNA transcription. Moreover, the DEPTOR protein expression level was significantly increased in high-, medium-, and low-dose QRP groups, while mTOR and S6K1 mRNA and protein expression levels were markedly downregulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared to the QRP + si-NC group, the QRP + si-BCKDH group exhibited increased BCAAs and BCKAs levels, significantly decreased BCKDH mRNA transcription and protein expression, downregulated DEPTOR mRNA and protein expression, and upregulated mTOR and S6K1 mRNA and protein expression (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionQRP may improve insulin resistance by reprogramming BCAAs metabolism. This effect involves upregulating BCKDH, reducing BCAAs and BCKAs levels, and suppressing the mTOR pathway activation.
7.Study on Brain Functional Network Characteristics of Parkinson’s Disease Patients Based on Beta Burst Period
Yu-Jie HAO ; Shuo YANG ; Shuo LIU ; Xu LOU ; Lei WANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1279-1289
ObjectiveThe central symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is impaired motor function. Beta-band electrical activity in the motor network of the basal ganglia is closely related to motor function. In this study, we combined scalp electroencephalography (EEG), brain functional network, and clinical scales to investigate the effects of beta burst-period neural electrical activity on brain functional network characteristics, which may serve as a reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment. MethodsThirteen PD patients were included in the PD group, and 13 healthy subjects were included in the healthy control group. Resting-state EEG data were collected from both groups, and beta burst and non-burst periods were extracted. A phase synchronization network was constructed using weighted phase lag indices, and the topological feature parameters of phase synchronization network were compared between the two groups across different periods and four frequency bands. Additionally, the correlation between changes in network characteristics and clinical symptoms was analyzed. ResultsDuring the beta burst period, the topological characteristic parameters of phase synchronization network in all four frequency bands were significantly higher in PD patients compared to healthy controls. The average clustering coefficient of the phase synchronization network in the beta band during the beta burst period was negatively correlated with UPDRS-III scores. In the low gamma band during the non-burst period, the average clustering coefficient of phase synchronization network was positively correlated with UPDRS and UPDRS-III scores, while UPDRS-III scores were positively correlated with global efficiency and average degree. ConclusionThe brain functional network features of PD patients were significantly enhanced during the beta burst period. Moreover, the beta-band brain functional network characteristics during the beta burst period were negatively correlated with clinical scale scores, whereas low gamma-band functional network features during the non-burst period were positively correlated with clinical scale scores. These findings indicate that motor function impairment in PD patients is associated with the beta burst period. This study provides valuable insights for the diagnosis of PD.
8.Material basis and action mechanism of drug-containing serum of Modified Erxian Pill inhibiting macrophage pyroptosis
Siyuan LI ; Yuru WANG ; Ye XU ; Di GUO ; Nan NAN ; Yang LIU ; Jie ZHAO ; Huiqin HAO
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2025;29(19):4029-4037
BACKGROUND:Our previous study found that Modified Erxian Pill could alleviate inflammation in collagen-induced arthritis rats,but its mechanism needs to be further verified. OBJECTIVE:To analyze the components absorbed in the blood of Modified Erxian Pill,and observe the effect of the drug-containing serum of Modified Erxian Pill on pyroptosis of J774A.1 macrophages. METHODS:(1)Analysis of components absorbed in the blood of Modified Erxian Pill:Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry was used to detect and identify Modified Erxian Pill and its components absorbed in the blood.(2)Effect of the drug-containing serum of Modified Erxian Pill on pyroptosis of J774A.1 macrophages:Molecular docking technology was used to initially verify the sesquiterpenoids and NLRP3 in components absorbed in the blood of Modified Erxian Pill.J774A.1 macrophages were randomly divided into blank control group,lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate group,and lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate+Modified Erxian Pill with low(2.5%),medium(5%),and high(10%)dose groups.The release of lactate dehydrogenase in the cell supernatant of each group was detected according to the kit instructions.The levels of interleukin-1β and interleukin-18 in cell supernatant were detected in each group by ELISA.The cell membrane damage was detected by Hoechst/PI staining.The expression levels of NLRP3,Caspase-1,GSDMD,and GSDMD-N protein in the cells of each group were detected by western blot assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)A total of 32 active components of Modified Erxian Pill were identified,and 21 components entered the blood.The main components into blood included a variety of sesquiterpenoids.(2)Molecular docking results showed that 3-O-Acetyl-13-deoxyphomenone,Incensol oxide,Atractylenolide III,Rupestonic acid,and 3,7-Dihydroxy-9,11-eremophiladien-8-one had good binding activity with NLRP3.(3)Compared with the blank control group,lactate dehydrogenase activity and the expression levels of interleukin-1β and interleukin-18 were significantly increased in cell supernatant of lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate group(P<0.001).Hoechst/PI staining showed that the number of PI-positive cells was significantly increased.After the intervention of lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate+Modified Erxian Pill group,all of them showed different degrees of reduction.(4)Compared with the blank control group,NLRP3,Caspase-1,GSDMD,and GSDMD-N protein expression levels were significantly increased in the lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate group(P<0.05).Compared with lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate group,the protein expressions of NLRP3,Caspase-1,GSDMD,and GSDMD-N were significantly decreased in the lipopolysaccharide+adenosine triphosphate+Modified Erxian Pill group(P<0.05),and had a certain dose dependence.These findings verify that the drug-containing serum of Modified Erxian Pill may inhibit the pyroptosis of J774A.1 macrophages by regulating the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway.
9.Consensus on diagnosis and treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Yushu BAI ; Kai CHEN ; Jie SHAO ; Xiao ZHAI ; Ming CHEN ; Weishi LI ; Jianzhong XU ; Bangping QIAN ; Zezhang ZHU ; Feng ZHU ; Chunde LI ; Jianguo ZHANG ; Jianxiong SHEN ; Dingjun HAO ; Xiaodong ZHU ; Junlin YANG ; Xuejun ZHANG ; Xuesong ZHANG ; Fangyi ZHANG ; Qijie WANG ; Wenzhi ZHANG ; Yong HAI ; Jianhua ZHAO ; Yong QIU ; Yan WANG ; Guixing QIU ; Ming LI
Academic Journal of Naval Medical University 2025;46(3):291-300
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis(AIS)is a complex three-dimensional deformity involving coronal,sagittal,and axial planes,with a prevalence that should not be overlooked.With advancements in technology and in-depth research,an increasing number of hospitals and physicians are exploring standardized diagnostic and treatment approaches for AIS.Comprehensive and in-depth understanding is required for AIS,including its etiology,screening and diagnosis,classification,assessment and examination,treatment options,exploration of current focus,and evaluation of quality of life.Such understanding ensures that the diagnostic and treatment are scientific,standardized,and timely.Based on the principles of evidence-based medicine,a consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of AIS is reached after multiple discussions among spinal surgery experts,aiming to provide reference and guidance for clinical practice.
10.New-onset urethral stricture after transurethral holmium laser enucleation of the prostate and analysis on its influencing factors
Jie WANG ; Chenxi YE ; Qiang HU ; Guorong YANG ; Xiaowei HAO ; Yin LU ; Fan GAO ; Qing YUAN
Journal of Army Medical University 2025;47(12):1342-1349
Objective To systematic analyze the risk factors for new-onset urethral stricture after transurethral holmium laser enucleation of the prostate(HoLEP)in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH).Methods A case-control study was conducted on 746 BPH patients undergoing HoLEP treatment in Department of Urology of the Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital from November 2021 to August 2024.After 23 cases were excluded because of complication of prostate cancer,finally 723 patients were included.General clinical data such as age,height,weight,history of smoking and drinking,perioperative parameters,and follow-up data at 1,3 and 6 months after operation were collected.Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the clinical risk factors for new-onset urethral stricture after HoLEP.Results The subjected patients had a median age of 66.5(64.0,75.0)years,and a preoperative median prostate volume of 66(45,92)mL,and a median indwelling catheter time of 4(4,5)d.The incidence of new urethral stricture after operation was 5.8%(42/723),with membranous part of the urethra(61.9%)the most common site,followed by the external urethral orifice(21.4%)and the bladder neck(7.1%).Risk factor analysis indicated that low BMI(<18.5 kg/m2)(OR=4.682,P=0.037),young age(OR=0.946,P=0.005),and postoperative urinary tract infection(OR=4.513,P=0.001)were independent risk factors for new-onset urethral stricture after surgery.Prostate volume and indwelling time of urinary catheter had no significant association with the occurrence of new urethral stricture after surgery.Conclusion The occurrence of new-onset urethral stricture after HoLEP is significantly correlated with BMI,age and urinary tract infection.The above 3 factors can be used as better predictors of new-onset urethral stricture after HoLEP.

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