1.Therapeutic Study on The Inhibition of Neuroinflammation in Ischemic Stroke by Induced Regulatory T Cells
Tian-Fang KANG ; Ai-Qing MA ; Li-Qi CHEN ; Han GONG ; Jia-Cheng OUYANG ; Fan PAN ; Hong PAN ; Lin-Tao CAI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(4):946-956
ObjectiveNeuroinflammation plays a crucial role in both the onset and progression of ischemic stroke, exerting a significant impact on the recovery of the central nervous system. Excessive neuroinflammation can lead to secondary neuronal damage, further exacerbating brain injury and impairing functional recovery. As a result, effectively modulating and reducing neuroinflammation in the brain has become a key therapeutic strategy for improving outcomes in ischemic stroke patients. Among various approaches, targeting immune regulation to control inflammation has gained increasing attention. This study aims to investigate the role of in vitro induced regulatory T cells (Treg cells) in suppressing neuroinflammation after ischemic stroke, as well as their potential therapeutic effects. By exploring the mechanisms through which Tregs exert their immunomodulatory functions, this research is expected to provide new insights into stroke treatment strategies. MethodsNaive CD4+ T cells were isolated from mouse spleens using a negative selection method to ensure high purity, and then they were induced in vitro to differentiate into Treg cells by adding specific cytokines. The anti-inflammatory effects and therapeutic potential of Treg cells transplantation in a mouse model of ischemic stroke was evaluated. In the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model, after Treg cells transplantation, their ability to successfully migrate to the infarcted brain region and their impact on neuroinflammation levels were examined. To further investigate the role of Treg cells in stroke recovery, the changes in cytokine expression and their effects on immune cell interactions was analyzed. Additionally, infarct size and behavioral scores were measured to assess the neuroprotective effects of Treg cells. By integrating multiple indicators, the comprehensive evaluation of potential benefits of Treg cells in the treatment of ischemic stroke was performed. ResultsTreg cells significantly regulated the expression levels of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in vitro and in vivo, effectively balancing the immune response and suppressing excessive inflammation. Additionally, Treg cells inhibited the activation and activity of inflammatory cells, thereby reducing neuroinflammation. In the MCAO mouse model, Treg cells were observed to accumulate in the infarcted brain region, where they significantly reduced the infarct size, demonstrating their neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, Treg cell therapy notably improved behavioral scores, suggesting its role in promoting functional recovery, and increased the survival rate of ischemic stroke mice, highlighting its potential as a promising therapeutic strategy for stroke treatment. ConclusionIn vitro induced Treg cells can effectively suppress neuroinflammation caused by ischemic stroke, demonstrating promising clinical application potential. By regulating the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, Treg cells can inhibit immune responses in the nervous system, thereby reducing neuronal damage. Additionally, they can modulate the immune microenvironment, suppress the activation of inflammatory cells, and promote tissue repair. The therapeutic effects of Treg cells also include enhancing post-stroke recovery, improving behavioral outcomes, and increasing the survival rate of ischemic stroke mice. With their ability to suppress neuroinflammation, Treg cell therapy provides a novel and effective strategy for the treatment of ischemic stroke, offering broad application prospects in clinical immunotherapy and regenerative medicine.
2.Ethical reflections on narrative wills in elderly end-of-life patients
Linan CHENG ; Fuman CAI ; Huiling LI ; Qian CHEN ; Fengying ZHANG
Chinese Medical Ethics 2025;38(6):712-717
Elderly end-of-life patients often experience distress due to being caught in dilemmas of contemplation and decision-making. Narrative wills, grounded in life values and premised on respecting individual wishes and needs, present an individual’s unique life story through narrative forms, conveying their overall experience, interpretation of meaning, and understanding of life. They are preserved and passed on in a way that meets individual expectations, thereby promoting human exploration, reflection, and growth regarding the meaning of life through interpersonal interactions that transcend space and time. This paper explored the concept of narrative wills among elderly end-of-life patients, the ethical value and ethical principles of narrative wills, and the moral and ethical risks. It also provided specific ethical interpretations, assisting in the application and development of narrative wills in elderly end-of-life patients.
3.Yulin Hukun Decoction Ameliorates Diminished Ovarian Reserve via PI3K/Akt/mTOR-Mediated Autophagy
Ruixia WANG ; Huan CHENG ; Yaxing FAN ; Tingyun CAI ; Meifang LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(18):77-85
ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Yulin Hukun decoction on autophagy mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway in the mouse model of cyclophosphamide-induced diminished ovarian reserve and explore the follicular development-improving mechanism of this decoction. MethodsSixty female ICR mice with normal estrous cycle were assigned into a blank group (n=10) and a modeling group (n=50). The model was established by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (60 mg·kg-1) for 5 days. The successfully modeled mice were randomly grouped as follows: model, estradiol (0.26 mg·kg-1), and high-, medium-, and low-dose (56.42, 28.21, 14.105 g·kg-1, respectively) Yulin Hukun decoction, with 10 mice in each group. The blank group and the model group received normal saline (10 mL·kg-1). The intervention was performed once a day for 21 days. The general conditions, estrous cycle, body weight, and ovary index were observed and recorded for each group. Serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histopathological changes in the ovarian tissue were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Western blot was employed to determine the protein levels of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, autophagy-related protein 7 (Atg7), beclin1, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3Ⅱ (LC3Ⅱ), ubiquitin-binding adaptor protein (p62), forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), and acetylated forkhead box protein O1 (Ac-FoxO1) in mouse ovaries. Real-time PCR was adopted to determine the mRNA levels of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, Atg7, beclin1, and LC3Ⅱ in the mouse ovarian tissue. ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group had disturbed estrous cycle, decreased body weight (P<0.05), loose ovarian structure with increased atretic follicles, increased serum FSH level (P<0.05), and decreased AMH and estradiol levels (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the treatment groups showed recovered estrous cycles and body weight. The estradiol group and high- and medium-dose Yulin Hukun decoction groups showed declined FSH level (P<0.05) and elevated AMH levels (P<0.05). In addition, the treatment groups showed downregulated protein levels of Atg7, LC3Ⅱ, beclin1, FoxO1, and Ac-FoxO1 (P<0.01), upregulated protein levels of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, and p62 (P<0.01) in the ovarian tissue, gradual repair of the ovarian structure, with more intact and numerous follicles of various stages. ConclusionYulin Hukun decoction can inhibit autophagy in ovarian granulosa cells by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and inhibiting the expression of autophagy-related proteins and transcription factors, thereby improving follicular development and ovarian reserve.
4.Research on population pharmacokinetics of propofol injection in adult patients under general anesthesia
Jin-Xia LI ; An-Cheng GU ; Fu-Miao YUAN ; Cai LI ; Hai-Jun DENG ; Zhong-Yuan XU
The Chinese Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 2024;40(14):2124-2128
Objective To quantitatively assess the influence of various factors on the pharmacokinetic parameters of propofol and to develop a propofol population pharmacokinetic model tailored for Chinese patients.Methods Thirty patients scheduled for selective abdominal surgeries received an anesthesia dose of propofol at 2.0 mg·kg-1.The concentration of propofol in collected venous blood samples was measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.Polymorphisms in metabolizing enzyme genes were detected through Sanger sequencing technology.Pharmacokinetic parameters were computed,and models were constructed and evaluated using Phoenix Winnonlin software.Results Through software analysis,the drug's in vivo process was best described by a three-compartment model.The population mean values for the central compartment clearance rate(CL),shallow peripheral compartment clearance rate(Q2),deep peripheral compartment clearance rate(Q3),central compartment volume of distribution(V),shallow peripheral compartment volume of distribution(V2),and deep peripheral compartment volume of distribution(V3)were 1.71 L·min-1,1.31 L·min-1,1.51 L·min-1,5.92 L,19.86 L and 99.06 L,respectively.Body weight was identified as a significant covariate affecting CL and V,and was incorporated into the model.Conclusion The evaluation of the final model demonstrates its substantial predictive capability,offering directional guidance for the clinical administration of propofol.
5.Research status of AQP5 regulation of programmed cell death in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Cheng-Cai YUN ; Li-Ying ZHANG ; Hong-Dou HOU ; Huan-Huan ZHANG ; Zhang-Bo SONG ; Wen-Xing YONG
The Chinese Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 2024;40(14):2134-2138
Aquaporin 5(AQP5),as the main water transport protein in the body,can regulate lung diseases by regulating airway mucus secretion,pulmonary inflammation,and lung function.Programmed cell death(PCD)plays a crucial role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).AQP5 may affect the development of COPD by regulating PCDs.This article reviews the molecular regulatory mechanism of AQP5 on apoptosis,autophagy,iron death and pyroptosis in PCDs in recent years,and further discusses its effect on COPD in order to provide theoretical support for clinical prevention and treatment of COPD.
6.Standard for the management of hyperkalemia—whole-process management mode of multi- department cooperation
Zhiming YE ; Jianfang CAI ; Wei CHEN ; Hong CHENG ; Qiang HE ; Rongshan LI ; Xiangmin LI ; Xinxue LIAO ; Zhiguo MAO ; Huijuan MAO ; Ning TAN ; Gang XU ; Hong ZHAN ; Hao ZHANG ; Jian ZHANG ; Xueqing YU
Chinese Journal of Nephrology 2024;40(3):245-254
Hyperkalemia is one of the common ion metabolism disorders in clinical practice. Hyperkalemia is defined as serum potassium higher than 5.0 mmol/L according to the guidelines at home and abroad. Acute severe hyperkalemia can cause serious consequences, such as flaccid paralysis, fatal arrhythmia, and even cardiac arrest. The use of renin-angiotensin- aldosterone system inhibitors, β-blockers and diuretics, low-sodium and high-potassium diets, and the presence of related comorbidities increase the occurrence of hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia risk exist in all clinical departments, but there is a lack of a standardization in the management of multi- department cooperation in hospital. Therefore, a number of domestic nephrology and cardiology department experts have discussed a management model for multi-department cooperation in hyperkalemia, formulating the management standard on hospital evaluation, early warning, diagnosis and treatment, and process. This can promote each department to more effectively participate in nosocomial hyperkalemia diagnosis and treatment, as well as the long-term management of chronic hyperkalemia, improving the quality of hyperkalemia management in hospital.
7.Associations between disorders in activities of daily living and heavy metal concentrations in elderly people
Tingjun LI ; Jiansheng CAI ; Ruiying LI ; Jie XIAO ; Zeyan YE ; Yuqian CHENG ; Zhe LIU ; Zhiyong ZHANG
Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2024;41(9):995-1003
Background Heavy metals may play an important role in environmental risk factors associated disorders of activities of daily living (ADL) in older adults. Objective To investigate the associations between plasma levels of six heavy metals (zinc, arsenic, cadmium, lead, manganese, and copper) and ADL disorders in older adults. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 2018 to 2019 among
8.Mitochondrial Regulation of Tumor-associated Macrophages
Xiu-E CAI ; Shi-Cheng SU ; Jiang LI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2024;51(10):2560-2569
Tumor immune microenvironment is an important microecology for tumor development, where tumor-associated macrophages are the most abundant immune cells in the tumor immune microenvironment, with high plasticity and heterogeneity. Under the regulation of various environmental factors, tumor-associated macrophages can differentiate into different subgroups. Though complex and variable, all these environmental factors ultimately regulate tumor-associated macrophages by influencing the temporal and spatial heterogeneity of these cells’ internal components, structure, and functions. Mitochondrion are important organelles, responsible for energy production, metabolism, and centers of multiple signal transduction. More and more studies have found that mitochondria can regulate cell functions through various mechanisms such as morphological change, metabolic reprogramming, intermediate metabolites or mitochondrial genetic material. Mitochondrial disorders are involved in many diseases and pathological processes. Here, we review the mechanisms by which mitochondria regulate the polarization of macrophages and thus reshape the tumor immune microenvironment. Further, we discuss and prospect the current status of macrophage mitochondria-related tumor immunotherapy.
9.Mechanism of Ginkgo flavone aglycone in alleviating doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity based on transcriptomics and proteomics
Yujie TU ; Ying CAI ; Xueyi CHENG ; Jia SUN ; Jie PAN ; Chunhua LIU ; Yongjun LI ; Yong HUANG ; Lin ZHENG ; Yuan LU
China Pharmacy 2024;35(21):2596-2602
OBJECTIVE To investigate the mechanism by which Ginkgo flavone aglycone (GA) reduces the cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin (DOX) based on transcriptomics and proteomics. METHODS Thirty-six mice were randomly assigned to control group (CON group, tail vein injection of equal volume of physiological saline every other day+daily intragastric administration of an equal volume of physiological saline), DOX group (tail vein injection of 3 mg/kg DOX every other day), and GDOX group (daily intragastric administration of 100 mg/kg GA+tail vein injection of 3 mg/kg DOX every other day), with 12 mice in each group. The administration of drugs/physiological saline was continued for 15 days. Mouse heart tissues were collected for RNA-Seq transcriptomic sequencing and 4D-Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis to screen differentially expressed genes and proteins, which were then subjected to Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. The expression levels of Apelin peptide (Apelin), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and protein kinase B (Akt) mRNA and protein in mouse heart tissues, as well as the phosphorylation levels of PI3K and Akt proteins, were verified. H9c2 cardiomyocytes were divided into control group (CON group), DOX group (2 μmol/L), and GDOX group (2 μg/mL GA+2 μmol/L DOX) to determine cell viability and the levels of key glycolytic substances in the cells. RESULTS Six common pathways were identified from transcriptomics and proteomics, including the Apelin signaling pathway, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and insulin resistance. Among them, the Apelin and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways were the most enriched in terms of gene numbers. Target validation experiments showed that compared to the CON group, the relative expression of Apelin, PI3K and Akt mRNA and protein levels, as well as the phosphorylation levels of PI3K and Akt proteins, were significantly decreased in the DOX group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The relative expression of Apelin, PI3K and Akt mRNA and the phosphorylation levels of PI3K and Akt proteins were significantly increased in the GDOX group as compared with the DOX group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Cellular experiments indicated that compared to the CON group, cell viability in the DOX group was significantly decreased (P<0.05), the relative uptake of glucose and the relative production of pyruvate and lactate were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the relative production of ATP was significantly reduced (P<0.05). Compared to the DOX group, cell viability in the GDOX group was significantly increased (P< 0.05), and the relative production of pyruvate and lactate was significantly reduced (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS GA may alleviate DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by upregulating the mRNA and protein expression of Apelin, PI3K, and Akt in heart tissues, and regulating glycolytic processes.
10.Analysis of Influencing Factors and Security on the Plasma Concentration of Anti-tuberculosis Drugs in Children
Junjie CHENG ; Jinmeng LI ; Ruoying ZHANG ; Xinjun CAI
Chinese Journal of Modern Applied Pharmacy 2024;41(9):1247-1254
OBJECTIVE
To monitor plasma concentration of anti-tuberculosis drugs in children, and explore the influencing factors and safety of anti-tuberculosis drugs, and promote the rational use of drugs.
METHODS
The plasma drug concentration monitoring results of isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol, the adverse drug reactions and the changes of various parameters before and after treatment in 40 children with tuberculosis were analyzed retrospectively in Zhejiang Hospital of Integrated Tradtional Chinese and Western Medicine.
RESULTS
The compliance rates of plasma drug concentration of isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol in chlidren with tuberculosis were 48.15%, 34.88%, 73.81%, 18.52%, respectively. Isoniazid(P=0.0250), rifampicin(P=0.0212) concentrations were positively correlated with daily dose. Age was also one of the factors affecting the concentrations of isoniazid(P=0.0430) and rifampicin(P=0.0057). Serum albumin(P=0.0475) and sex(P=0.0087) were correlated with rifampicin and pyrazinamide, respectively. Abnormal liver function(5/40, 12.50%) and rash(4/40, 10%) were the most common adverse drug reaction. Aspartate aminotransferase(AST), alanine aminotransferase(ALT) and uric acid levels increased after treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs.
CONCLUSION
The plasma drug concentrations of isoniazid, rifampicin and ethambutol in children are low. The anti-tuberculosis drugs maybe related to the increase of AST, ALT and uric acid. Therefore, monitoring of serum drug concentration, renal fuction and liver function during anti-tuberculosis treatment is helpful to improve drug safety and implement individualized treatment.


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