1.Identification of Lonicera japonica TPS gene family and expression analysis under aphid damage.
Gang WANG ; Yuan CUI ; Qi-Dong LI ; Lu-Yao HUANG ; Zhen-Hua LIU ; Jia LI
China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica 2025;50(8):2116-2129
This study explores the basic characteristics and potential functions of the terpene synthase(TPS) gene family members in Lonicera japonica. The L. japonica TPS(LjTPS) gene family was identified and functionally analyzed using bioinformatics methods. The results showed that a total of 70 members of the LjTPS gene family were identified in L. japonica, with protein lengths ranging from 130 to 1 437 amino acids. Most of these proteins were hydrophilic, and they were unevenly distributed across nine chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the LjTPS gene family members were divided into six subfamilies, mainly consisting of members from the TPS-a, TPS-b, and TPS-e subfamilies. Promoter cis-acting element analysis showed that LjTPS members contained a large number of stress-responsive cis-acting elements. Aphid inoculation experiments showed that key enzyme genes in the MVA pathway for terpenoid backbone synthesis in L. japonica, such as HMGS, HMGR, MK, MPD, and the key enzyme gene in the DXP pathway, DXS, exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease under aphid stress. The qRT-PCR analysis showed that the expression levels of the α-farnesene synthase genes LjTPS34 and LjTPS39 were down-regulated, while the expression levels of(E)-β-caryophyllene synthase genes LjTPS15 and LjTPS17 were up-regulated 12 h before aphid feeding, then began to decline. Farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase(FPS), which interacted with these genes, also displayed a pattern of increasing followed by decreasing expression. The expression of linalool synthase genes LjTPS12 and LjTPS33 was significantly up-regulated after 72 h of aphid feeding(P<0.000 1), reaching 24.39 and 22.64 times the initial expression, respectively. This pattern was in close alignment with the trend of linalool content in L. japonica. This study provides a theoretical foundation for future research on the interaction between L. japonica and pests, as well as on the functional roles of the LjTPS gene family.
Animals
;
Aphids/physiology*
;
Alkyl and Aryl Transferases/chemistry*
;
Lonicera/parasitology*
;
Phylogeny
;
Plant Proteins/chemistry*
;
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
;
Multigene Family
;
Terpenes/metabolism*
2.Discovery of E0199: A novel compound targeting both peripheral NaV and KV7 channels to alleviate neuropathic pain.
Boxuan ZHANG ; Xiaoxing SHI ; Xingang LIU ; Yan LIU ; Xuedong LI ; Qi WANG ; Dongyang HUANG ; Weidong ZHAO ; Junru CUI ; Yawen CAO ; Xu CHAI ; Jiahao WANG ; Yang ZHANG ; Xiangyu WANG ; Qingzhong JIA
Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis 2025;15(1):101132-101132
This research study focuses on addressing the limitations of current neuropathic pain (NP) treatments by developing a novel dual-target modulator, E0199, targeting both NaV1.7, NaV1.8, and NaV1.9 and KV7 channels, a crucial regulator in controlling NP symptoms. The objective of the study was to synthesize a compound capable of modulating these channels to alleviate NP. Through an experimental design involving both in vitro and in vivo methods, E0199 was tested for its efficacy on ion channels and its therapeutic potential in a chronic constriction injury (CCI) mouse model. The results demonstrated that E0199 significantly inhibited NaV1.7, NaV1.8, and NaV1.9 channels with a particularly low half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) for NaV1.9 by promoting sodium channel inactivation, and also effectively increased KV7.2/7.3, KV7.2, and KV7.5 channels, excluding KV7.1 by promoting potassium channel activation. This dual action significantly reduced the excitability of dorsal root ganglion neurons and alleviated pain hypersensitivity in mice at low doses, indicating a potent analgesic effect without affecting heart and skeletal muscle ion channels critically. The safety of E0199 was supported by neurobehavioral evaluations. Conclusively, E0199 represents a ground-breaking approach in NP treatment, showcasing the potential of dual-target small-molecule compounds in providing a more effective and safe therapeutic option for NP. This study introduces a promising direction for the future development of NP therapeutics.
3.Mechanism of adipose mesenchymal stem cell exosomes inhibiting atopic dermatitis
Jia-qi BI ; Zhao WANG ; Bing-kun WANG ; Chun-yan SUN ; Ya SUN ; Xiao-tong CUI ; Xin PANG ; Xiao-yu WANG ; Jie-qiong WANG
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(6):1148-1157
Aim To study the mechanism of adipose mesenchymal stem cell exosomes(ASC-exo)inhibition of fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)-induced atopic dermatitis(AD).Methods The mouse age,extrac-tion method,and the concentration of a solution of typeⅠ collagen enzyme and other conditions were compared to study the effects on the morphology and quantity of adipose mesenchymal stem cells(ASCs)after extrac-ted.FITC-induced mouse model in vivo was estab-lished and different doses of ASC-exo were given to measure ear thickness,ear weight and ear scratching times of mice.HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of ear tissue of mice.The non-toxicity of ASC-exo was detected.IgE,IL-5,IL-13 and other cytokines were detected by ELISA.The gene ex-pressions of TSLP,IL-33,occludin,Claudin-1(CLDN-1)and E-cadherin were detected by RT-qPCR.The protein expression was detected by immunohistochemis-try.Results An efficient method for extracting ASCs was established.Compared with the blank group,mice in the model group showed obvious AD symptoms.Compared with the model group,ASC-exo administra-tion group significantly reduced the number of ear scratches,epidermal thickening,inflammatory cell infil-tration and the secretion of Th2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13.Meanwhile,ASC-exo administration group signifi-cantly increased the expression of structural proteins CLDN-1 and occludin in epithelial cells and decreased the expression of TSLP and IL-33.Conclusions ASC-exo can significantly improve Th2 skin inflamma-tion in AD mice,and its mechanism may be through in-creasing the expression of tight junction proteins and adhesion link protein in epithelial cells,repairing the skin barrier,and inhibiting the key promoters of allergy TSLP and IL-33.
4.Construction of an early child development index system in China using a Delphi method
Jia-qi SHI ; Yu-jie CUI ; Jia-ning XU ; Fei-fei LI ; Guo-hong LI ; Fan JIANG
Chinese Journal of Health Policy 2025;18(5):35-41
Objective:This study aims to construct a monitoring index system for early child development(ECD)that is consistent with China's actual situation,to scientifically and systematically evaluate the level of ECD and service capacity in various regions.Methods:The study was predicated on the theoretical foundation of the Nutrition Care Framework(NCF).Indicators were initially selected through a literature review and focus group interviews.The evaluation indicators were then determined through two rounds of expert consultation utilising the Delphi method.The Priority Sequence Diagram Method(PSDM)was subsequently implemented to determine indicator weights.Results:The final framework encompasses six first-level indicators(good health,adequate nutrition,responsive caregiving,opportunities for learning,security and safety,and demand and investment),12 second-level indicators,and 31 third-level indicators.Conclusion:The ECD index system constructed in this study integrates macro,meso,and micro levels,emphasises cross-sectoral collaboration and attention to child caregivers,and incorporates equity indicators to measure regional disparities.The research outcomes provide a reference for quantitatively assessing the level of ECD and service capacity across various regions in China.By leveraging mechanisms for cross-sectoral collaboration and goal-oriented approaches,the study provides a framework for the allocation of resources to key areas,thus laying the foundation for the sustained implementation and resource assurance of the child-priority development strategy.
5.Cross-district healthcare-seeking behavior analysis using two-stage VaDE clustering approach:A case study of district A,Shanghai
Wen-qi TIAN ; Jia-zhen LIU ; Zhi-yi WANG ; Xin CUI
Chinese Journal of Health Policy 2025;18(8):29-37
Objective:Based on outpatient and emergency visit data,this study employs a staged VaDE model to uncover the heterogeneity structure of residents'healthcare-seeking behaviors and reveal cross-district mobility patterns.Methods:Outpatient and emergency visit records of permanent residents in District A,Shanghai,in 2024 were used.Each individual visit served as the analytical unit.A staged VaDE approach was applied for nonlinear dimensionality reduction and clustering,followed by feature analysis with cross-district visit rates.Results:The proposed model outperformed K-Means and VAE+K-Means in clustering performance,identifying seven typical healthcare-seeking patterns with significant differences in cross-district rates,demographic characteristics,care structures,and disease profiles.Cluster 1 comprised elderly patients with severe conditions and high cross-district rates;Cluster 2,young and middle-aged cross-district commuters;Cluster 3,mild-case or maternity-oriented visits;Cluster 4,infrequent visits by middle-aged and elderly patients;and Clusters 5~7,local chronic disease or low-burden visits.Conclusion:The staged VaDE model demonstrates strong capability in characterizing behavioral heterogeneity and identifying key cross-district mobility types,providing evidence for refined healthcare service management and regional coordination.
6.Discovery of E0199:A novel compound targeting both peripheral Nav and Kv7 channels to alleviate neuropathic pain
Boxuan ZHANG ; Xiaoxing SHI ; Xingang LIU ; Yan LIU ; Xuedong LI ; Qi WANG ; Dongyang HUANG ; Weidong ZHAO ; Junru CUI ; Yawen CAO ; Xu CHAI ; Jiahao WANG ; Yang ZHANG ; Xiangyu WANG ; Qingzhong JIA
Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis 2025;15(1):244-261
This research study focuses on addressing the limitations of current neuropathic pain(NP)treatments by developing a novel dual-target modulator,E0199,targeting both Nav1.7,Nay1.8,and Nay1.9 and Kv7 channels,a crucial regulator in controlling NP symptoms.The objective of the study was to synthesize a compound capable of modulating these channels to alleviate NP.Through an experimental design involving both in vitro and in vivo methods,E0199 was tested for its efficacy on ion channels and its therapeutic potential in a chronic constriction injury(CCI)mouse model.The results demonstrated that E0199 significantly inhibited Nav1.7,Nav1.8,and Nav1.9 channels with a particularly low half maximal inhibitory concentration(ICs0)for Nay1.9 by promoting sodium channel inactivation,and also effectively increased Kv7.2/73,Kv7.2,and Kv7.5 channels,excluding Kv7.1 by promoting potassium channel acti-vation.This dual action significantly reduced the excitability of dorsal root ganglion neurons and alle-viated pain hypersensitivity in mice at low doses,indicating a potent analgesic effect without affecting heart and skeletal muscle ion channels critically.The safety of E0199 was supported by neurobehavioral evaluations.Conclusively,E0199 represents a ground-breaking approach in NP treatment,showcasing the potential of dual-target small-molecule compounds in providing a more effective and safe thera-peutic option for NP.This study introduces a promising direction for the future development of NP therapeutics.
7.Effect of Modified Xiangsha Liujunzitang on Hepatic Kupffer Cell Inflammation Mediated by Intestinal-derived LPS in Rats with Hyperlipidemia and Spleen Deficiency Syndrome
Mengzhu CHE ; Lianqun JIA ; Dongyu MIN ; Guoyuan SUI ; Qi ZHANG ; Guanlin YANG ; Yunhao CUI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(16):77-86
ObjectiveThe study aims to investigate the intervention effect of modified Xiangsha Liujunzitang (M-XSLJZ) on intestinal-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated Kupffer cell inflammation in rats with hyperlipidemia spleen deficiency syndrome. MethodsSeventy male SD rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n=10): blank control (CON), high-fat diet without spleen deficiency (HFD), high-fat diet with spleen deficiency (SD-HFD), M-XSLJZ low-, medium-, and high-dose groups (XS-L, XS-M, XS-H), and western medicine control (R). Spleen deficiency was induced in SD-HFD, XS-L, XS-M, XS-H, and R groups via irregular diet combined with exhaustive swimming for 15 days. The CON group received a standard diet, while other groups were fed a high-fat diet for 10 weeks to establish the hyperlipidemia model. After successful modeling, rats were treated for 8 weeks: M-XSLJZ was administered at 3.51, 7.02, 14.04 g·kg-1 in XS-L, XS-M, and XS-H groups, respectively. The R group received 9×10-4 g·kg-1 of a reference drug. D-xylose excretion rate was measured by the phloroglucinol method. Blood lipids were assessed using an automated biochemical analyzer. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to evaluate the pathological conditions of the liver, and oil red O staining was used to observe the lipid deposition in the liver. The levels of LPS, portal vein serum LPS, LPS-binding protein (LBP), serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Immunofluorescence was used to evaluate CD86 expression and CD68/TLR4 co-localization in the liver. Protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB p65, and p-NF-κB p65 in Kupffer cells were analyzed via Western blot automated protein analysis. Hepatic IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β mRNA and protein levels were measured using Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) and Western blot. ResultsCompared with the CON group, the SD-HFD group showed a decrease in D-xylose excretion (P<0.01). TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). A large number of hepatic lipid vacuoles and orange-red lipid droplet deposition appeared in the liver. Ileal LPS, portal LPS, and LBP increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). The levels of serum IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β increased (P<0.01). The expression of CD86 was upregulated (P<0.01), and the co-expression of CD68 and TLR4 was enhanced. The protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, and p-p65 in Kupffer cells increased (P<0.01). The mRNA and protein levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the HFD group, the SD-HFD group exhibited decreased D-xylose excretion (P<0.01), higher HDL-C, LDL-C (P<0.05), increased portal LBP and LPS (P<0.05), increased serum IL-6 and TNF-α (P<0.01), upregulated CD86 (P<0.01), enhanced CD68/TLR4 co-expression, and higher TNF-α mRNA/protein (P<0.05). Compared with the SD-HFD group, all M-XSLJZ treatment groups showed reduced TC, TG, and LDL-C (P<0.05, P<0.01). XS-H and R groups displayed improved hepatic lipid deposition. XS-H and R groups had lower ileal LPS, portal LPS, and LBP levels (P<0.05, P<0.01). All M-XSLJZ treatment groups exhibited reduced serum IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α (P<0.01). The XS-H group showed downregulated CD86 (P<0.01) and weakened CD68/TLR4 co-expression. The XS-H group had reduced TLR4, MyD88, and p-NF-κB p65 in Kupffer cells (P<0.01). XS-H and R groups showed lower IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β mRNA/protein (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionM-XSLJZ may exert its lipid-lowering effects by inhibiting intestinal-derived LPS and alleviating Kupffer cell inflammation in the liver.
8.Cold stimulation regulates lipid metabolism and the secretion of exosomes from subcutaneous adipose tissue in mice.
Shuo KE ; Li XU ; Rui-Xue SHI ; Jia-Qi WANG ; Le CUI ; Yuan JI ; Jing LI ; Xiao-Hong JIANG
Acta Physiologica Sinica 2025;77(2):231-240
Cold has been a long-term survival challenge in the evolutionary process of mammals. In response to cold stress, in addition to brown adipose tissue (BAT) dissipating energy as heat through glucose and lipid oxidation to maintain body temperature, cold stimulation can strongly activate thermogenesis and energy expenditure in beige fat cells, which are widely distributed in the subcutaneous layer. However, the effects of cold stimulation on other tissues and systemic lipid metabolism remain unclear. Our previous research indicated that, under cold stress, BAT not only produces heat but also secretes numerous exosomes to mediate BAT-liver crosstalk. Whether subcutaneous fat has a similar mechanism is still unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the alterations in lipid metabolism across various tissues under cold exposure and to explore whether subcutaneous fat regulates systemic glucose and lipid metabolism via exosomes, thereby elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of lipid metabolism homeostasis under physiological stress. RT-qPCR, Western blot, and H&E staining methods were used to investigate the physiological changes in lipid metabolism in the serum, liver, epididymal white adipose tissue, and subcutaneous fat of mice under cold stimulation. The results revealed that cold exposure significantly enhanced the thermogenic activity of subcutaneous adipose tissue and markedly increased exosome secretion. These exosomes were efficiently taken up by hepatocytes, where they profoundly influenced hepatic lipid metabolism, as evidenced by alterations in the expression levels of key genes involved in lipid synthesis and catabolism pathways. This study has unveiled a novel mechanism by which subcutaneous fat regulates lipid metabolism through exosome secretion under cold stimulation, providing new insights into the systemic regulatory role of beige adipocytes under cold stress and offering a theoretical basis for the development of new therapeutic strategies for obesity and metabolic diseases.
Animals
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Lipid Metabolism/physiology*
;
Mice
;
Exosomes/metabolism*
;
Cold Temperature
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Subcutaneous Fat/physiology*
;
Thermogenesis/physiology*
;
Adipose Tissue, Brown/metabolism*
;
Male
9.Construction of an early child development index system in China using a Delphi method
Jia-qi SHI ; Yu-jie CUI ; Jia-ning XU ; Fei-fei LI ; Guo-hong LI ; Fan JIANG
Chinese Journal of Health Policy 2025;18(5):35-41
Objective:This study aims to construct a monitoring index system for early child development(ECD)that is consistent with China's actual situation,to scientifically and systematically evaluate the level of ECD and service capacity in various regions.Methods:The study was predicated on the theoretical foundation of the Nutrition Care Framework(NCF).Indicators were initially selected through a literature review and focus group interviews.The evaluation indicators were then determined through two rounds of expert consultation utilising the Delphi method.The Priority Sequence Diagram Method(PSDM)was subsequently implemented to determine indicator weights.Results:The final framework encompasses six first-level indicators(good health,adequate nutrition,responsive caregiving,opportunities for learning,security and safety,and demand and investment),12 second-level indicators,and 31 third-level indicators.Conclusion:The ECD index system constructed in this study integrates macro,meso,and micro levels,emphasises cross-sectoral collaboration and attention to child caregivers,and incorporates equity indicators to measure regional disparities.The research outcomes provide a reference for quantitatively assessing the level of ECD and service capacity across various regions in China.By leveraging mechanisms for cross-sectoral collaboration and goal-oriented approaches,the study provides a framework for the allocation of resources to key areas,thus laying the foundation for the sustained implementation and resource assurance of the child-priority development strategy.
10.Mechanism of adipose mesenchymal stem cell exosomes inhibiting atopic dermatitis
Jia-qi BI ; Zhao WANG ; Bing-kun WANG ; Chun-yan SUN ; Ya SUN ; Xiao-tong CUI ; Xin PANG ; Xiao-yu WANG ; Jie-qiong WANG
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(6):1148-1157
Aim To study the mechanism of adipose mesenchymal stem cell exosomes(ASC-exo)inhibition of fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)-induced atopic dermatitis(AD).Methods The mouse age,extrac-tion method,and the concentration of a solution of typeⅠ collagen enzyme and other conditions were compared to study the effects on the morphology and quantity of adipose mesenchymal stem cells(ASCs)after extrac-ted.FITC-induced mouse model in vivo was estab-lished and different doses of ASC-exo were given to measure ear thickness,ear weight and ear scratching times of mice.HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of ear tissue of mice.The non-toxicity of ASC-exo was detected.IgE,IL-5,IL-13 and other cytokines were detected by ELISA.The gene ex-pressions of TSLP,IL-33,occludin,Claudin-1(CLDN-1)and E-cadherin were detected by RT-qPCR.The protein expression was detected by immunohistochemis-try.Results An efficient method for extracting ASCs was established.Compared with the blank group,mice in the model group showed obvious AD symptoms.Compared with the model group,ASC-exo administra-tion group significantly reduced the number of ear scratches,epidermal thickening,inflammatory cell infil-tration and the secretion of Th2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13.Meanwhile,ASC-exo administration group signifi-cantly increased the expression of structural proteins CLDN-1 and occludin in epithelial cells and decreased the expression of TSLP and IL-33.Conclusions ASC-exo can significantly improve Th2 skin inflamma-tion in AD mice,and its mechanism may be through in-creasing the expression of tight junction proteins and adhesion link protein in epithelial cells,repairing the skin barrier,and inhibiting the key promoters of allergy TSLP and IL-33.

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