1.Notoginsenoside R1 modulates mitophagy in human cardiomyocytes viathe Pink1/Parkin pathway after hypoxia/reoxygenation
Xiaoman XIONG ; Huan WU ; Shanglin LU ; Yong WANG ; Yuhua ZHENG ; Yi XIANG ; Haiyan ZHOU ; Xingde LIU
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(1):53-59
ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanism by which Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) ameliorates hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced injury in AC16 human cardiomyocyte cell lines through the regulation of mitophagy. MethodsCommon genes linked to hypoxia/reoxygenation injury and mitophagy were identified by intersecting data from GeneCards and MitoCarta databases. AC16 cell viability was assessed via CCK-8 assay under varying NGR1 concentrations (0, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 μmol/L). AC16 cells were divided into the following groups: control group (Control), model group (H/R), and treatment groups (H/R + NGR1 at 100, 200 and 300 μmol/L). Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was measured using 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining. Transcriptional levels of mitophagy-related genes (Parkin, Pink1, P62) were quantified by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Protein expression of mitophagy-related markers (Parkin, Pink1, P62, and LC3BⅡ) was evaluated via Western blot analysis. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). ResultsCompared to the control group, cell viability in the H/R group significantly decreased (P<0.01). Treatment with NGR1 at concentrations above 100 μmol/L significantly enhanced the cell viability of AC16 cells compared to the H/R group (P<0.01). H/R induced a significant decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.01), which was restored by NGR1 treatment (P<0.01). The mRNA levels of Parkin, Pink1, and P62 in the H/R group were upregulated compared to the control group (P<0.05), while NGR1 intervention downregulated their expression (P<0.05). Protein expression levels of Parkin, Pink1, and LC3BⅡ in the H/R group significantly increased, while P62 expression decreased compared to the control group (P<0.01). In contrast, different doses of NGR1 treatment significantly reduced the expression of Parkin, Pink1, and LC3BⅡ while increasing P62 expression (P<0.05). TEM revealed that the mitochondrial structure in the H/R group was severely disrupted, with fragmented and disorganized cristae, which was alleviated by NGR1. ConclusionNGR1 ameliorates H/R-induced AC16 cell injury, and its mechanism may be associated with modulating the Pink1/Parkin pathway to suppress excessive mitophagy.
2.Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention in Parkinson's Disease Based on Keap1/Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway: A Review
Liuping YUE ; Yongkang SUN ; Fangbiao XU ; Yanbo SONG ; Yijun WU ; Huan YU ; Xinzhi WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(9):307-317
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily characterized by motor dysfunction. The main pathological features include the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, abnormal aggregation of alpha-Synuclein (α-Syn), and the formation of Lewy bodies. However, the exact mechanisms remain unclear. In recent years, the PD incidence has gradually increased, while current treatment methods are limited to symptom alleviation, incapable of halting disease progression, and prone to adverse effects, thus making it urgent to search for medicines effective for PD. Modern research indicates that the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway is closely related to oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, apoptosis, ferroptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction, playing a crucial role in the pathophysiological development of PD. A large number of studies have further confirmed that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can regulate diseases through a holistic view of Syndrome differentiation and microscopic molecular pathways. With unique advantages, such as multiple targets, multiple pathways, and fewer adverse reactions, TCM provides a new strategy for PD treatment. This article elucidates the mechanism of the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway in the occurrence and development of PD, while summarizing the latest research on PD intervention by TCM monomers, active ingredients, and compounds, as well as acupuncture via the precise targeted regulation of the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway, aiming to provide a reference for clinical medicine development to prevent and treat PD.
3.Analysis of Toxicity Characteristics and Rational Drug Use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix
Qiongyi FU ; Yupu QI ; Yu HUAN ; Yagang SONG ; Xiangxiang WU ; Mingsan MIAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):222-231
ObjectivePolygoni Multiflori Radix is a commonly used tonic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in clinical practice, but liver injury has often been reported in recent years. Some related preparations containing Polygoni Multiflori Radix have been reported by the National Medical Products Administration many times for the risk of liver injury. This has caused extensive discussion on the potential toxicity of TCM in China and abroad, which has limited the clinical use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix to some extent. To understand the adverse reactions of Polygoni Multiflori Radix, the safe and rational use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix in clinical practice was discussed. MethodsThe pharmacovigilance thought of modern Chinese medicine and the TCM pharmacovigilance system framework of ''identification of poison, use of poison, anti-poison, and detoxification'' were employed to mine the relevant toxicity records, usage and dosage, processing compatibility, and contraindication of taking Polygoni Multiflori Radix in ancient books. The drug safety information of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was summarized by comparing with modern reports. ResultsA total of 74 ancient books related to Polygoni Multiflori Radix were included, suggesting that the toxicity of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was recognized in ancient times. The main chemical components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix had both efficacy and toxicity, and the adverse reactions may be related to long-term use, excessive use, and individual differences. The results showed that the toxic components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by peeling, steaming with black beans, and processing without iron tools. The toxic effects of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by the compatibility of Polygoni Multiflori Radix with Poria, Psoraleae Fructus, and Cistanches Herba. ConclusionReasonable dosage, standard processing, correct compatibility, and syndrome differentiation are the key points to standardize the use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix and reduce the incidence of adverse reactions. Clinically, the toxicity classification of TCM should be strengthened, and the susceptible population should be prioritized. The detection indicators and early warning mechanisms should be improved, and precise drug dosage and course of treatment should be guaranteed. These measures can ensure the safe use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix.
4.Analysis of Toxicity Characteristics and Rational Drug Use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix
Qiongyi FU ; Yupu QI ; Yu HUAN ; Yagang SONG ; Xiangxiang WU ; Mingsan MIAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):222-231
ObjectivePolygoni Multiflori Radix is a commonly used tonic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in clinical practice, but liver injury has often been reported in recent years. Some related preparations containing Polygoni Multiflori Radix have been reported by the National Medical Products Administration many times for the risk of liver injury. This has caused extensive discussion on the potential toxicity of TCM in China and abroad, which has limited the clinical use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix to some extent. To understand the adverse reactions of Polygoni Multiflori Radix, the safe and rational use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix in clinical practice was discussed. MethodsThe pharmacovigilance thought of modern Chinese medicine and the TCM pharmacovigilance system framework of ''identification of poison, use of poison, anti-poison, and detoxification'' were employed to mine the relevant toxicity records, usage and dosage, processing compatibility, and contraindication of taking Polygoni Multiflori Radix in ancient books. The drug safety information of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was summarized by comparing with modern reports. ResultsA total of 74 ancient books related to Polygoni Multiflori Radix were included, suggesting that the toxicity of Polygoni Multiflori Radix was recognized in ancient times. The main chemical components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix had both efficacy and toxicity, and the adverse reactions may be related to long-term use, excessive use, and individual differences. The results showed that the toxic components of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by peeling, steaming with black beans, and processing without iron tools. The toxic effects of Polygoni Multiflori Radix could be reduced by the compatibility of Polygoni Multiflori Radix with Poria, Psoraleae Fructus, and Cistanches Herba. ConclusionReasonable dosage, standard processing, correct compatibility, and syndrome differentiation are the key points to standardize the use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix and reduce the incidence of adverse reactions. Clinically, the toxicity classification of TCM should be strengthened, and the susceptible population should be prioritized. The detection indicators and early warning mechanisms should be improved, and precise drug dosage and course of treatment should be guaranteed. These measures can ensure the safe use of Polygoni Multiflori Radix.
5.Analysis of factors influencing the achievement of target vancomycin plasma concentration and construction of a predictive model in patients from high-altitude regions: a single-center retrospective study
Ya’e CHANG ; NI ZHAO ; Zhilan HUAN ; Guiqin XU ; Xue WU ; Yafeng WANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(2):198-203
OBJECTIVE To analyze the influencing factors for achieving target plasma drug concentration (trough) (abbreviated as “PDC”) of vancomycin in patients from high-altitude regions and establish a predictive model for PDC using single- center data, providing references for rational clinical drug use. METHODS Inpatients with vancomycin (1 g, q12 h) administered intravenously in our hospital from January 2021 to June 2024 were retrospectively included. Demographic data, liver and kidney function and hematological indexes were collected. Spearman correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between vancomycin PDC and each detection index. Univariate analysis was used to evaluate the differences of each index in patients with different PDC, and the effects of different gender, body mass index, age and underlying diseases (hypertension/diabetes) on vancomycin PDC. Based on the results of correlation analysis and univariate analysis, multiple linear stepwise regression analysis was used to obtain the independent predictors of vancomycin PDC and construct the prediction model. RESULTS A total of 141 patients were included, with an overall attainment rate of 46.81% for the target PDC of vancomycin. Correlation analysis showed that the vancomycin PDC was positively correlated with age, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid (UA), serum creatinine (CRE) and β2- microglobulin (β2-MG), and negatively correlated with height, weight, creatinine clearance rate (CCR), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), alanine transaminase (ALT), hemoglobin (HGB), white blood cell count and neutrophils (P<0.05). There were significant differences in age, CRE and other 14 indexes among different PDC groups (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Age and underlying diseases had significant effects on vancomycin PDC (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CCR, direct bilirubin (DBil), β2-MG, UA, HGB and height (standardized coefficients were -0.371, 0.367, 0.169, 0.232, -0.140, -0.132; P<0.05) were independent predictors of vancomycin PDC. The F value of the regression equation was 34.858 (P<0.05), the R2 was 0.610, and the adjusted R2 was 0.592. CONCLUSIONS The vancomycin PDC of patients in high-altitude regions is affected by multiple factors such as renal function, liver function and hematological indexes. CCR, HGB and height could be used to predict vancomycin PDC negatively, while DBil, β2-MG and UA could be used to predict vancomycin PDC positively. The variables of the established prediction model could explain 59.2% of the variation of vancomycin PDC.
6.Effect of sitravatinib on a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis and its mechanism
Huan ZHANG ; Xiangyu WU ; Qianwen ZHAO ; Fajuan RUI ; Nan GENG ; Rui JIN ; Jie LI
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2026;42(3):600-607
ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effect of sitravatinib on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. MethodsA total of 30 male C57BL/6J mice, aged 8 weeks, were randomly divided into control group, CCl4 model group, and low- (5 mg/kg), middle- (10 mg/kg), and high-dose (20 mg/kg) sitravatinib groups. All mice except those in the control group were given intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 for 4 consecutive weeks to induce liver fibrosis, and since the first day of modeling, the mice in the low-, middle-, and high-dose sitravatinib groups were given sitravatinib at the corresponding dose by gavage every day. The serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were measured for the mice in each group; hepatic hydroxyproline content was measured; HE staining, Masson staining, and Sirius Red staining were used to observe liver histopathological changes; quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot were used to measure the mRNA and protein expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I alpha 1 (Col1a1) in liver tissue. The therapeutic effect of sitravatinib was assessed based on the above results. A one-way analysis of variance was used for comparison of continuous data between multiple groups, and the least significant difference t-test was used for further comparison between two groups. ResultsCompared with the control group, the model group had significant increases in the levels of TC, TG, and ALT (all P<0.05), and there were no significant differences in the levels of TC, TG, and ALT between the model group and the low-, middle-, and high-dose sitravatinib groups (all P>0.05). Hepatic hydroxyproline content decreased after sitravatinib intervention, with a significant difference between the middle-/high-dose sitravatinib groups and the CCl4 model group (both P<0.05). Histopathological staining showed that the sitravatinib treatment groups had a reduction in collagen deposition, along with thinning and fragmentation of fibrous septa, and in the high-dose sitravatinib group, 4 mice had a fibrosis stage of S0—S1 and 2 mice had a fibrosis stage of S2—S3, suggesting a certain degree of alleviation of liver fibrosis degree compared with the CCl4 model group (mainly S3—S4). The measurement of related molecules showed that sitravatinib downregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of α-SMA and Col1a1 (all P<0.05). ConclusionSitravatinib can effectively alleviate CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in mice, possibly by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation and collagen synthesis.
7.Role of TLR4-mediated NETs formation in isoproterenol-induced heart failure in aged mice
Huan LIU ; Xiangdong CHEN ; Zhilin WU
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(4):699-705
ObjectiveTo examine the impact of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced heart failure (HF) in aged mice. MethodsThe mice were randomly divided into Control group, Model group, TAK-242 (TLR4 inhibitor) group, LPS (TLR4 agonist) group and LPS+DNaseⅠ (NETs inhibitor) group, with 8 mice in each group. The HF model was established by continuous infusion of ISO through an osmotic pump, and TAK-242, LPS, and LPS+DNaseⅠ interventions were administered during the last week of infusion for 7 consecutive days. ELISA was used to detect the N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and serum and myocardial tissue myeloperoxidase-DNA (MPO-DNA) and neutrophil elastase-DNA (NE-DNA) levels. HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of myocardial tissue. Masson staining was used to observe the deposition of collagen fibers in myocardial tissue. Immunofluorescence was used to observe the colocalization of Ly6G and MPO in myocardial tissue. The protein expressions of TLR4, MPO, NE and cit-H3 in myocardial tissue were detected by Western blot. ResultsCompared with the Control group, the end-diastolic interventricular septal thickness (IVSD), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD) in the Mode group significantly increased (P<0.01), fractional shortening (FS) and ejection fraction (EF) significantly decreased (P<0.01), and the myocardial structure was significantly damaged. The myocardial collagen fiber precipitation, serum NT-pro BNP, cTnI, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α contents, MPO-DNA and NE-DNA contents in serum and myocardial tissue significantly increased (P<0.01). The co-localization of Ly6G and MPO and the expression of TLR4, MPO, NE and cit-H3 proteins in myocardial tissue significantly increased (P<0.01). After TAK-242 intervention, the above indicators were significantly reversed, while the injury was further aggravated in LPS group. DNaseⅠ treatment could partially alleviate the deterioration of myocardial structure and function induced by LPS. ConclusionTLR4 and NETs are abnormally elevated in the myocardial tissue of aged HF mice. Treatment with the TLR4 inhibitor TAK-242 effectively suppresses NET formation, attenuates inflammatory responses, and enhances cardiac function in aged HF mice.
8.Value of MRI radiomics based on intratumoral and peritumoral heterogeneity in predicting spatial patterns of locally recurrent high-grade gliomas
Hanwei WANG ; Linlan ZENG ; Mimi ZHAO ; Xuan LI ; Huan XIE ; Xiaoguang LI ; Liang YI ; Yi WU ; Shunan WANG
Journal of Army Medical University 2025;47(14):1577-1586
Objective To establish and validate a multimodal MRI radiomics model based on intratumoral and peritumoral heterogeneity for prediction of spatial pattern of locally recurrent high-grade gliomas(HGGs).Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical and imaging data of all HGGs patients who underwent maximum safe resection followed by postoperative radiotherapy combined with temozolomide treatment and experienced in local recurrence in Army Medical Center of PLA from 2012 to 2021.Two radiologists independently assessed the spatial patterns of locally recurrence HGGs through continuous follow-up MRI data,and primarily categorized the pattern into intra-resection cavity recurrence and extra-resection cavity recurrence.The subjected patients were randomly divided into a training set and a validation set in a 7∶3 ratio.In the training set,Pearson or Spearman correlation analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(LASSO)analysis were employed to screen radiomic features within the intratumoral and peritumoral regions,as well as to calculate radiomic scores.A radiomics model was established using logistic regression analysis.The performance of the model was assessed using calibration curves,Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test,and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC).Validation of the model was performed in the validation set.Results A total of 121 patients with locally recurrent HGGs were enrolled in this study,including 54 in intra-resection cavity recurrence group and 67 in extra-resection cavity recurrence group.Among them,84 were assigned into the training set and 37 into the validation set.In the training set,the radiomics score for the extra-resection cavity recurrence group was 0.424(0.278,0.573),which was higher than that for the intra-resection cavity recurrence group[-0.030(-0.226,0.248),P<0.001].In the validation set,the radiomics score for the extra-resection cavity recurrence group was 0.369(0.258,0.487),which was higher than that for the intra-resection cavity recurrence group[0.277(0.103,0.322),P=0.033].The established radiomics model exhibited good calibration and performed well in predicting spatial recurrence patterns,with an AUC value of 0.844(95%CI:0.749~0.914)in the training set and 0.706(95%CI:0.534~0.844)in the validation set.Conclusion Our multimodal radiomics model combined with intratumoral and peritumoral heterogeneity can predict the spatial pattern of locally recurrent HGGs,providing a basis for individualized treatment of HGGs.
9.Colorimetric Sensor for Sensitive Detection of Glutathione Based on Metal-Organic Framework Nanosheets
Yan WU ; Jing-Lei RAN ; Fang LIU ; Huan ZHONG ; Jin-Yang CHEN
Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry 2025;53(6):924-933,中插6-中插15
Glutathione(GSH)is a tripeptide containing sulfhydryl groups,which has the function of antioxidant,detoxifying,and immune enhancing effects,and its expression is closely associated with many diseases such as cancer,etc.Therefore,it is of great significance for clinical diagnosis by developing a highly sensitive,simple,and rapid method for detecting GSH.Herein,two-dimensional(2D)Zn-TCPP(Fe)nanosheets employing Zn2+and Fe-bound tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin ligands were obtained by a surfactant-assisted synthetic method.The 2D Zn-TCPP(Fe)nanosheets exhibited excellent peroxidase-like activity,which allowed the catalysis of the H2O2-initiated oxidation of colorless 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine(TMB)to blue oxidized TMB(ox-TMB).In the presence of GSH,GSH underwent a reduction reaction with oxTMB,resulting in the blue color of the solution fading.The proposed colorimetric sensor exhibited favorable sensitivity for GSH in the linear range of 0.1-200 μmol/L with a limit of detection(S/N=3)of 0.042 μmol/L,indicating excellent selectivity.The developed sensor was successfully applied to detect GSH level in the human serum samples with recoveries of 93.0%-107.7%,showing satisfactory results.The developed colorimetric sensor provided a new approach for detecting GSH.
10.The predictive value of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein to albumin ratio for pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients
Tong WU ; Huici WANG ; Huan WANG
International Journal of Laboratory Medicine 2025;46(16):1959-1963
Objective To investigate the predictive value of high sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP)to albumin(ALB)ratio(hs-CRP/ALB)for pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients.Methods A total of 128 elderly stroke patients admitted to the hospital from February 2021 to February 2023 were selected as the study group,and were divided into the infection group(n=48)and the non-infection group(n=80)according to the pulmonary infection.Another 130 healthy subjects undergoing physical examination were selected as the control group at the same time.The general data of all subjects were collected,and the levels of hs-CRP and ALB in peripheral blood were detected within 24 h after admission,and hs-CRP/ALB was calculated.The gen-eral data and biochemical indicators of each group were analyzed and compared.Receiver operating characteris-tic(ROC)curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of hs-CRP/ALB for pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients.Binary Logistic stepwise regression analysis was used to explore the influencing factors of pul-monary infection.Results The level of hs-CRP and hs-CRP/ALB in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group(P<0.05),and the level of ALB was significantly lower than that in the con-trol group(P<0.05).The infection group had significantly higher level of hs-CRP and hs-CRP/ALB and a significantly lower level of ALB than the non-infection group(P<0.05).The ROC curve showed that the are-a under curve(AUC)and 95%CI of peripheral blood hs-CRP and ALB for predicting pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients was 0.830(0.780-0.880)and 0.860(0.810-0.910),respectively.The AUC(95%CI)of hs-CRP/ALB for predicting pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients was 0.912(0.862-0.962).Binary Logistic stepwise regression analysis showed that peripheral blood PCT(OR=3.781,95%CI:2.019-7.079),hs-CRP(OR=2.423,95%CI:1.631-3.600),ALB(OR=2.596,95%CI:1.703-3.957)and hs-CRP/ALB(OR=3.564,95%CI:2.158-5.887)were the risk factors for the occurrence of pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients(P<0.05).Conclusion The level of hs-CRP/ALB in peripheral blood is in-creased in elderly stroke patients,and is closely related to the occurrence of pulmonary infection.hs-CRP/ALB can be used as an effective biological index to predict pulmonary infection in elderly stroke patients.

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