1.Mechanism of Jinyang Dingtong Plaster in Improving Peripheral Pain Sensitization and Synovial Fibrosis in Knee Osteoarthritis by Blocking Ion Channels of TRPs
Jinliang HE ; Lu ZHANG ; Shixin XING ; Xilu REN ; Jingxing JIANG ; Junfeng KANG ; Xuliang HAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):108-116
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the mechanism of Jinyang Dingtong plaster in improving the peripheral pain sensitization and synovial fibrosis in rats with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) by blocking the ion channels of transient receptor potentials (TRPs). MethodsThe active components in the transdermal absorption solution of Jinyang Dingtong plaster were identified by using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technology. A KOA rat model was established through intra-articular injection of monoiodoacetic acid. The rats were randomly divided into blank control group, KOA group, compound Nanxing Zhitong plaster Group, and Jinyang Dingtong plaster group, with eight rats per group. Among them, the rats in the compound Nanxing Zhitong plaster group and the Jinyang Dingtong plaster group were intervened with external application treatment. After the intervention period, the cold and mechanical stimulus pain thresholds of rats in each group were detected, and the transverse diameter of the knee joint was measured. The levels of inflammatory factors in the serum such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nerve growth factor (NGF), and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Protein expression levels of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in synovial tissue were detected by Western blot. Histopathological changes in synovial tissue were observed by using hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Masson, and Sirius red staining, while the expression of type Ⅰ collagen and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was detected by multiplex immunofluorescence. ResultsA total of 35 active components in the transdermal absorption solution of Jinyang Dingtong plaster were identified by UPLC-MS/MS, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, quinones, alkaloids, terpenes, lignans, and coumarins. Among them, the constituents such as berberine, paeoniflorin, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid exhibit clear anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-fibrotic pharmacological effects. Compared to the blank control group, rats in the KOA group showed a significant decrease in cold and mechanical stimuli pain thresholds (P<0.01). After 14 and 28 days of Jinyang Dingtong plaster intervention, the pain threshold in this group was significantly increased compared to that in KOA group (P<0.01), showing no significant difference from that in compound Nanxing Analgesic plaster group. Additionally, Jinyang Dingtong plaster reduced the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, NGF, and CGRP in the serum of KOA rats (P<0.01), lowered the expression of TRPA1, TRPM8, TRPV1, TRPV4, TGF-β, and VEGF proteins in synovial tissue (P<0.01), improved synovial pathological damage in KOA rats, and significantly decreased fluorescence intensity of type Ⅰ collagen and α-SMA (P<0.01). ConclusionJinyang Dingtong plaster can improve the peripheral pain sensitization and synovial fibrosis in KOA rats by downregulating the expression of ion channels of TRPs and related inflammatory and fibrotic factors.
2.Mechanism of Jinyang Dingtong Plaster in Improving Peripheral Pain Sensitization and Synovial Fibrosis in Knee Osteoarthritis by Blocking Ion Channels of TRPs
Jinliang HE ; Lu ZHANG ; Shixin XING ; Xilu REN ; Jingxing JIANG ; Junfeng KANG ; Xuliang HAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):108-116
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the mechanism of Jinyang Dingtong plaster in improving the peripheral pain sensitization and synovial fibrosis in rats with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) by blocking the ion channels of transient receptor potentials (TRPs). MethodsThe active components in the transdermal absorption solution of Jinyang Dingtong plaster were identified by using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technology. A KOA rat model was established through intra-articular injection of monoiodoacetic acid. The rats were randomly divided into blank control group, KOA group, compound Nanxing Zhitong plaster Group, and Jinyang Dingtong plaster group, with eight rats per group. Among them, the rats in the compound Nanxing Zhitong plaster group and the Jinyang Dingtong plaster group were intervened with external application treatment. After the intervention period, the cold and mechanical stimulus pain thresholds of rats in each group were detected, and the transverse diameter of the knee joint was measured. The levels of inflammatory factors in the serum such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nerve growth factor (NGF), and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Protein expression levels of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in synovial tissue were detected by Western blot. Histopathological changes in synovial tissue were observed by using hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Masson, and Sirius red staining, while the expression of type Ⅰ collagen and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was detected by multiplex immunofluorescence. ResultsA total of 35 active components in the transdermal absorption solution of Jinyang Dingtong plaster were identified by UPLC-MS/MS, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, quinones, alkaloids, terpenes, lignans, and coumarins. Among them, the constituents such as berberine, paeoniflorin, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid exhibit clear anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-fibrotic pharmacological effects. Compared to the blank control group, rats in the KOA group showed a significant decrease in cold and mechanical stimuli pain thresholds (P<0.01). After 14 and 28 days of Jinyang Dingtong plaster intervention, the pain threshold in this group was significantly increased compared to that in KOA group (P<0.01), showing no significant difference from that in compound Nanxing Analgesic plaster group. Additionally, Jinyang Dingtong plaster reduced the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, NGF, and CGRP in the serum of KOA rats (P<0.01), lowered the expression of TRPA1, TRPM8, TRPV1, TRPV4, TGF-β, and VEGF proteins in synovial tissue (P<0.01), improved synovial pathological damage in KOA rats, and significantly decreased fluorescence intensity of type Ⅰ collagen and α-SMA (P<0.01). ConclusionJinyang Dingtong plaster can improve the peripheral pain sensitization and synovial fibrosis in KOA rats by downregulating the expression of ion channels of TRPs and related inflammatory and fibrotic factors.
3.Development of a dual-track predictive model for active ankylosing spondylitis by combining the sacroiliac joint resistance index and systemic immune-inflammation index
Yuhong OUYANG ; Jianxiong ZHENG ; Xing ZHANG ; Wenjiao KANG ; Qianqiong CHEN ; Haili SHEN
Chinese Journal of Rheumatology 2026;30(2):1-8
Objective:To construct a "local-systemic" dual-track prediction model integrating the resistance index (RI) score of bilateral sacroiliac joints and the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and to evaluate its predictive efficacy for the active stage of ankylosing spondylitis (AS).Methods:A total of 205 patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from the Second Hospital of Lanzhou University between April 2022 and April 2025 were retrospectively enrolled and categorized into an active group ( n=113) and a remission group ( n=92). Hematological parameters and ultrasound data were collected. The resistance index (RI) of the synovial area in bilateral sacroiliac joints was measured by Doppler ultrasound and scored as follows: RI < 0.5: 3 points; RI 0.5~0.55: 2 points; RI > 0.55: 1 point; undetectable blood flow: 0 points. A total bilateral RI score (range 0 to 6) was calculated. The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) was derived as (neutrophils× platelets)/lymphocytes. Normality was tested for all continuous variables; normally distributed data were compared using the t-test, while non-normally distributed data were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables were compared using the χ2 test or analysis of variance.Variable selection was performed using Lasso regression, and a multivariate logistic regression model was developed to assess predictive performance. Results:The proportion of patients with a bilateral RI total score≥5 was significantly higher in the active group compared to the remission group (50 of 113, 44.3% vs 2 of 92, 2.2%, χ2=55.63, P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for confounding variables, identified the SII [ OR(95% CI)=1.01(1.00, 1.01), P<0.001], bilateral RI total score [ OR(95% CI)=1.67(1.29, 2.26), P<0.001], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ OR(95% CI)=1.19(1.11, 1.30), P<0.001], and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration [ OR(95% CI)=1.09(1.03, 1.17), P<0.001] as independent risk factors for active AS. Conversely, lymphocyte count [ OR(95% CI)=0.42(0.18, 0.92), P=0.030] and globulin [ OR(95% CI)=0.89(0.80, 0.99), P=0.040] were significantly associated with protective effects. The bilateral RI total score demonstrated the strongest predictive effect, with each 1-point increase associated with a 67% elevation in the risk of active disease. ROC curve analysis indicated that the area under the curve (AUC) for predicting whether AS is in the active disease phase was 0.94 for the combined model (SII+bilateral RI total score), compared with 0.93 for the SII-alone model and 0.92 for the bilateral RI total score-alone model, demonstrating superior predictive performance of the combined model (SII+bilateral RI total score). An online prediction tool has been developed based on the combined model. Conclusion:The dual-track prediction model, which integrates local joint hemodynamic characteristics and systemic immune-inflammatory status, facilitates a multidimensional assessment of the risk of active AS and provides an objective basis for early identification.
4.Development of a dual-track predictive model for active ankylosing spondylitis by combining the sacroiliac joint resistance index and systemic immune-inflammation index
Yuhong OUYANG ; Jianxiong ZHENG ; Xing ZHANG ; Wenjiao KANG ; Qianqiong CHEN ; Haili SHEN
Chinese Journal of Rheumatology 2026;30(2):1-8
Objective:To construct a "local-systemic" dual-track prediction model integrating the resistance index (RI) score of bilateral sacroiliac joints and the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and to evaluate its predictive efficacy for the active stage of ankylosing spondylitis (AS).Methods:A total of 205 patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from the Second Hospital of Lanzhou University between April 2022 and April 2025 were retrospectively enrolled and categorized into an active group ( n=113) and a remission group ( n=92). Hematological parameters and ultrasound data were collected. The resistance index (RI) of the synovial area in bilateral sacroiliac joints was measured by Doppler ultrasound and scored as follows: RI < 0.5: 3 points; RI 0.5~0.55: 2 points; RI > 0.55: 1 point; undetectable blood flow: 0 points. A total bilateral RI score (range 0 to 6) was calculated. The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) was derived as (neutrophils× platelets)/lymphocytes. Normality was tested for all continuous variables; normally distributed data were compared using the t-test, while non-normally distributed data were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables were compared using the χ2 test or analysis of variance.Variable selection was performed using Lasso regression, and a multivariate logistic regression model was developed to assess predictive performance. Results:The proportion of patients with a bilateral RI total score≥5 was significantly higher in the active group compared to the remission group (50 of 113, 44.3% vs 2 of 92, 2.2%, χ2=55.63, P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for confounding variables, identified the SII [ OR(95% CI)=1.01(1.00, 1.01), P<0.001], bilateral RI total score [ OR(95% CI)=1.67(1.29, 2.26), P<0.001], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ OR(95% CI)=1.19(1.11, 1.30), P<0.001], and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration [ OR(95% CI)=1.09(1.03, 1.17), P<0.001] as independent risk factors for active AS. Conversely, lymphocyte count [ OR(95% CI)=0.42(0.18, 0.92), P=0.030] and globulin [ OR(95% CI)=0.89(0.80, 0.99), P=0.040] were significantly associated with protective effects. The bilateral RI total score demonstrated the strongest predictive effect, with each 1-point increase associated with a 67% elevation in the risk of active disease. ROC curve analysis indicated that the area under the curve (AUC) for predicting whether AS is in the active disease phase was 0.94 for the combined model (SII+bilateral RI total score), compared with 0.93 for the SII-alone model and 0.92 for the bilateral RI total score-alone model, demonstrating superior predictive performance of the combined model (SII+bilateral RI total score). An online prediction tool has been developed based on the combined model. Conclusion:The dual-track prediction model, which integrates local joint hemodynamic characteristics and systemic immune-inflammatory status, facilitates a multidimensional assessment of the risk of active AS and provides an objective basis for early identification.
5.Association between insulin resistance and cardiovascular metabolic indicators in middle-aged adults
Rui TIAN ; Jie ZHANG ; Ting ZHENG ; Aixia ZHANG ; Xing LIU ; Hao KANG ; Qingfang DENG ; Sufang WANG
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(7):1305-1310
ObjectiveTo investigate the association between insulin resistance (IR) and cardiovascular metabolic indicators, including blood pressure, blood lipids, and serum uric acid, in a middle-aged population. MethodsBased on the baseline survey of the Hong Sifang cohort of China National Salt Industry Group, a total of 575 participants were included. According to the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, the participants were divided into an IR group (n=116) and a non-IR group (n=459). Differences between the two groups were compared using the t-test and chi-square test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the associations between IR and abnormalities in metabolic indicators. ResultsA total of 575 participants were included, including 390 men and 185 women, with a mean age of (48.58 ± 5.14) years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of (24.16 ± 2.97) kg/m². Blood pressure, serum uric acid, and blood lipid levels were significantly higher in the IR group than in the non-IR group (P<0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, and BMI, IR was independently associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperuricemia, with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of 2.57 (1.61-4.09), 3.81 (2.36-6.17), and 2.68 (1.53-4.71), respectively (all P<0.001). ConclusionInsulin resistance is significantly associated with multiple cardiovascular metabolic risk factors in the middle-aged population. Monitoring IR may contribute to the early prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases.
6.In situ Analytical Techniques for Membrane Protein Interactions
Zi-Yuan KANG ; Tong YU ; Chao LI ; Xue-Hua ZHANG ; Jun-Hui GUO ; Qi-Chang LI ; Jing-Xing GUO ; Hao XIE
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(5):1206-1218
Membrane proteins are integral components of cellular membranes, accounting for approximately 30% of the mammalian proteome and serving as targets for 60% of FDA-approved drugs. They are critical to both physiological functions and disease mechanisms. Their functional protein-protein interactions form the basis for many physiological processes, such as signal transduction, material transport, and cell communication. Membrane protein interactions are characterized by membrane environment dependence, spatial asymmetry, weak interaction strength, high dynamics, and a variety of interaction sites. Therefore, in situ analysis is essential for revealing the structural basis and kinetics of these proteins. This paper introduces currently available in situ analytical techniques for studying membrane protein interactions and evaluates the characteristics of each. These techniques are divided into two categories: label-based techniques (e.g., co-immunoprecipitation, proximity ligation assay, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, resonance energy transfer, and proximity labeling) and label-free techniques (e.g., cryo-electron tomography, in situ cross-linking mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, nuclear magnetic resonance, and structure prediction tools). Each technique is critically assessed in terms of its historical development, strengths, and limitations. Based on the authors’ relevant research, the paper further discusses the key issues and trends in the application of these techniques, providing valuable references for the field of membrane protein research. Label-based techniques rely on molecular tags or antibodies to detect proximity or interactions, offering high specificity and adaptability for dynamic studies. For instance, proximity ligation assay combines the specificity of antibodies with the sensitivity of PCR amplification, while proximity labeling enables spatial mapping of interactomes. Conversely, label-free techniques, such as cryo-electron tomography, provide near-native structural insights, and Raman spectroscopy directly probes molecular interactions without perturbing the membrane environment. Despite advancements, these methods face several universal challenges: (1) indirect detection, relying on proximity or tagged proxies rather than direct interaction measurement; (2) limited capacity for continuous dynamic monitoring in live cells; and (3) potential artificial influences introduced by labeling or sample preparation, which may alter native conformations. Emerging trends emphasize the multimodal integration of complementary techniques to overcome individual limitations. For example, combining in situ cross-linking mass spectrometry with proximity labeling enhances both spatial resolution and interaction coverage, enabling high-throughput subcellular interactome mapping. Similarly, coupling fluorescence resonance energy transfer with nuclear magnetic resonance and artificial intelligence (AI) simulations integrates dynamic structural data, atomic-level details, and predictive modeling for holistic insights. Advances in AI, exemplified by AlphaFold’s ability to predict interaction interfaces, further augment experimental data, accelerating structure-function analyses. Future developments in cryo-electron microscopy, super-resolution imaging, and machine learning are poised to refine spatiotemporal resolution and scalability. In conclusion, in situ analysis of membrane protein interactions remains indispensable for deciphering their roles in health and disease. While current technologies have significantly advanced our understanding, persistent gaps highlight the need for innovative, integrative approaches. By synergizing experimental and computational tools, researchers can achieve multiscale, real-time, and perturbation-free analyses, ultimately unraveling the dynamic complexity of membrane protein networks and driving therapeutic discovery.
7.Establishment and stress analysis of a finite element model for adolescent cervical disc herniation
Yuxin ZHAO ; Liang LIANG ; Feng JIN ; Yangyang XU ; Zhijie KANG ; Yuan FANG ; Yujie HE ; Xing WANG ; Haiyan WANG ; Xiaohe LI
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2025;29(3):448-454
BACKGROUND:Cervical disc herniation can cause pain in the neck and shoulder area,as well as radiating pain in the upper limbs.The incidence rate is increasing year by year and tends to affect younger individuals.Fully understanding the biomechanical characteristics of the cervical spine in adolescents is of great significance for preventing and delaying the onset of cervical disc herniation in this age group. OBJECTIVE:To reconstruct cervical spine models for both healthy adolescents and adolescent patients with cervical disc herniation utilizing finite element analysis techniques,to analyze the motion range of the C1-T1 cervical vertebrae as well as the biomechanical characteristics of the annulus fibrosus,nucleus pulposus,endplates,and the cartilage of the small joints. METHODS:A normal adolescent's cervical spine and an adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation were selected in this study.The continuous scan cervical spine CT raw image data were imported into Mimics 21.0 in DICOM format.The C1-T1 vertebrae were reconstructed separately.Subsequently,the established models were imported into the 3-Matic software for disc reconstruction.The perfected models were then imported into Hypermesh software for meshing of the vertebrae,nucleus pulposus,annulus fibrosus,and ligaments,creating valid geometric models.After assigning material properties,the final models were imported into ABAQUS software to observe the joint motion range of the C1-C7 cervical vertebrae segments under different conditions,and to analyze the biomechanical characteristics of the annulus fibrosus,nucleus pulposus,endplates,and small joint cartilage of each cervical spine segment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)In six different conditions,the joint motion range of the C1 vertebra in the cervical spine models of both normal adolescent and adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation was higher than that of the other vertebrae.Additionally,the joint motion range of each cervical spine segment in normal adolescent was greater than that in adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation.(2)In the cervical spine model of normal adolescent,the maximum stress values in the annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus were found on the left side during C2-3 flexion conditions(0.43 MPa and 0.17 MPa,respectively).In the cervical spine model of adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation,the maximum stress values were found on the left side during C7-T1 flexion conditions(0.54 MPa and 0.18 MPa,respectively).(3)In the cervical spine model of normal adolescent,the maximum stress value on the endplate was found on the left side of the upper endplate of C3 during flexion conditions(1.46 MPa).In the model of adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation,the maximum stress value on the endplate was found on the left side of the lower endplate of C7 during flexion conditions(1.32 MPa).(4)In the cervical spine model of normal adolescent,the maximum stress value in the small joint cartilage was found in the C2-3 left rotation conditions(0.98 MPa).In adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation,the stress in the small joint cartilage significantly increased under different conditions,especially in C1-2,with the maximum stress found during left flexion(3.50 MPa).(5)It is concluded that compared to normal adolescent,adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation exhibits altered cervical curvature and a decrease in overall joint motion range in the cervical spine.In adolescent with cervical disc herniation,there is a significant increase in stress on the annulus fibrosus,nucleus pulposus,and endplates in the C7-T1 segment.The stress on the left articular cartilage of the C1-2 is notable.Abnormal cervical curvature may be the primary factor causing these stress changes.
8.Hemolysis rates of three red blood cell components at the end of storage: a 5-year retrospective study
Zhenping LU ; Fufa LIU ; Meiyan KANG ; Xianbin WU ; Yanting WANG ; Xing LONG ; Xinlu QIU ; Jin LI
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2025;38(6):828-832
Objective: To evaluate the suitability of the existing hemolysis rate standards for locally processed red blood cell components by retrospectively analyzing 5-year hemolysis rate data at the end of storage. Methods: A total of 720 blood samples of three types of red blood cell components from our blood station from January 2019 to December 2023 were collected. Parameters included hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), and free hemoglobin concentration (fHb). Hemolysis rate were taken as the control standard of 0.8% in accordance with the national standard. The hemolysis rates were compared against the national standard threshold of 0.8% (GB18469-2012), and annual trends of the detection parameters were observed. Results: The hemolysis rates (x-+s,%) of leukocyte-depleted whole blood at the end of storage were (0.038±0.023 8) in 2019, (0.049±0.039 5) in 2020, (0.043±0.040 7) in 2021, (0.049±0.030 7) in 2022, and (0.058±0.054 8) in 2023, respectively; The hemolysis rates (x-+s" />,%) of leukocyte-depleted suspended red blood cells at the end of storage were (0.093±0.050 2) in 2019, (0.086±0.049 5) in 2020, (0.123±0.072 3) in 2021, (0.122±0.052 1) in 2022, and (0.106±0.058 6) in 2023, respectively; The hemolysis rates (x-+s,%) of washed red blood cells at the end of storage were (0.127±0.038 2) in 2019, (0.150±0.066 5) in 2020, (0.121±0.052 2) in 2021, (0.124±0.038 9) in 2022, and (0.128±0.044 3) in 2023, respectively. Conclusion: Hemolysis rates at the end of blood storage of three red blood cell components were significantly lower than the limits specified in Quality Requirements for Whole Blood and Components (GB18469-2012), as well as standards from the EU, AABB and the United States. The results demonstrate excellent product quality control. A regional internal control standard of <0.2% is proposed for hemolysis rates at the end of storage.
9.Recommendations for Standardized Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis of Animal Experiments
Qingyong ZHENG ; Donghua YANG ; Zhichao MA ; Ziyu ZHOU ; Yang LU ; Jingyu WANG ; Lina XING ; Yingying KANG ; Li DU ; Chunxiang ZHAO ; Baoshan DI ; Jinhui TIAN
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2025;45(4):496-507
Animal experiments are an essential component of life sciences and medical research. However, the external validity and reliability of individual animal studies are frequently challenged by inherent limitations such as small sample sizes, high design heterogeneity, and poor reproducibility, which impede the effective translation of research findings into clinical practice. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis represent a key methodology for integrating existing evidence and enhancing the robustness of conclusions. Currently, however, the application of systematic reviews and meta-analysis in the field of animal experiments lacks standardized guidelines for their conduct and reporting, resulting in inconsistent quality and, to some extent, diminishing their evidence value. To address this issue, this paper aims to systematically delineate the reporting process for systematic reviews and meta-analysis of animal experiments and to propose a set of standardized recommendations that are both scientific and practical. The article's scope encompasses the entire process, from the preliminary preparatory phase [including formulating the population, intervention, comparison and outcome (PICO) question, assessing feasibility, and protocol pre-registration] to the key writing points for each section of the main report. In the core methods section, the paper elaborates on how to implement literature searches, establish eligibility criteria, perform data extraction, and assess the risk of bias, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement, in conjunction with relevant guidelines and tools such as Animal Research: Reporting of in Vivo Experiments (ARRIVE) and a risk of bias assessment tool developed by the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE). For the presentation of results, strategies are proposed for clear and transparent display using flow diagrams and tables of characteristics. The discussion section places particular emphasis on how to scientifically interpret pooled effects, thoroughly analyze sources of heterogeneity, evaluate the impact of publication bias, and cautiously discuss the validity and limitations of extrapolating findings from animal studies to clinical settings. Furthermore, this paper recommends adopting the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology to comprehensively grade the quality of evidence. Through a modular analysis of the entire reporting process, this paper aims to provide researchers in the field with a clear and practical guide, thereby promoting the standardized development of systematic reviews and meta-analysis of animal experiments and enhancing their application value in scientific decision-making and translational medicine.
10.Effects and neural mechanisms of light-at-night exposure on anxiety and depression behaviors in mice
Ke BAO ; Hongxiang KANG ; Shaojun HOU ; Yuyuan HU ; Chen XING ; Lun SONG ; Xin HUANG
Military Medical Sciences 2025;49(6):450-457
Objective To investigate the effects of light-at-night exposure on anxiety and depression behaviors in mice and to explore the underlying neural mechanisms.Methods Six-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to a control(Ctrl)group and a light-at-night exposure(LAN)group.Mice in the LAN group were exposed to 460 nm blue light for 1 h daily during the zeitgeber time(ZT)13-14 while the Ctrl group mice were maintained under a 12-h light/12-h dark cycle.Behavioral tests were conducted at different time points following LAN exposure to evaluate anxiety and depression behaviors in the mice.Immunofluorescence staining was used to observe the effect of LAN on c-fos expressions in the medial prefrontal cortex(mPFC),basal ateral amygdala(BLA),paraventricular nucleus(PVN)and paraventricular thalamus(PVT).ELISA was performed to measure changes in serum corticosterone,adrenocorticotropic hormone(ACTH)and corticotropin-releasing hormone(CRH)levels.Golgi staining was applied to measurethe dendritic spine density and morphology from mPFC and CA1.Western blotting analysis was conducted to detect expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factors(BDNFs),phosphorylated tropomyosin receptor kinase B(p-TrkB)/TrkB,postsynaptic density protein 95(PSD95)and synaptophysin(SYP)in the mPFC.Results Mice exhibited anxiety-like behaviors after 14 days of LAN exposure,with depression-like behaviors emerging after 28 days.LAN exposure of 28 days led to a significant increase in the number of c-fos-positive neurons in the mPFC,BLA,PVN and PVT(P<0.05),resulted in elevated serum corticosterone levels(P<0.01)and reduced protein expression levels of BDNF and SYP(P<0.05).Furthermore,there was a marked decrease in synapse numbers and synaptic density in the mPFC(P<0.01).Conclusion Prolonged exposure to blue light at night enhances neuronal activity in the mPFC and BLA and suppresses the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway by activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis(HPA),thus leading to synaptic structural and functional damage and inducing anxiety and depression behaviors in mice.

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail