1.Inheritance and Current Research Status of Major Spleen-Stomach Theories in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Ling HU ; Fengyun WANG ; Xudong TANG ; Beihua ZHANG ; Yunkai DAI ; Xu CHEN ; Shiqi LI
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(1):87-94
This paper systematically reviews the core concepts and lines of theoretical inheritance of major spleen-stomach theories in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including spleen deficiency theory, spleen-stomach damp-heat theory, and liver-spleen disharmony theory. It is found that these theories have all undergone a developmental trajectory characterized by classical foundation, refinement of therapeutic methods, systematization of pathogenesis, and modern innovation. The evolution of spleen-stomach theory has achieved a shift from a singular focus on tonifying the spleen to regulating dynamic middle-jiao (焦) balance, and from localized spleen-stomach regulation to the circular movement of qi involving all five zang organs. In terms of modern disease-syndrome integrative research, spleen deficiency syndrome is shown to be closely associated with impairment of the gastrointestinal mucosal barrier, metabolic disorders, and gene polymorphisms related to Helicobacter pylori-associated gastric diseases. Spleen-stomach damp-heat syndrome is closely linked to hyperactive energy metabolism, inflammatory cytokines, and abnormal expression of aquaporins. Liver-spleen disharmony syndrome is mainly associated with dysregulation of the brain-gut axis and microbiota-related metabolic disorders. It is proposed that future research on spleen-stomach diseases and syndromes should further elucidate their potential multidimensional differential biological characteristics, thereby promoting the modernization of the TCM discipline of spleen-stomach studies.
2.Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment of Chronic Heart Failure Based on AMPK Signaling Pathway
Kun LIAN ; Lichong MENG ; Xueqin WANG ; Yubin ZHANG ; Lin LI ; Xuhui TANG ; Zhixi HU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(5):139-148
Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a group of complex clinical syndromes caused by abnormal changes in the structure and/or function of the heart due to various reasons, resulting in disorders of ventricular contraction and/or diastole. CHF is a condition where primary diseases such as coronary heart disease, hypertension and pulmonary heart disease recur frequently and persist for a long time, presenting blood stasis in meridians and collaterals, stagnation of water and dampness, and accumulation of Qi in collaterals. Its pathogenesis is complex and may involve myocardial energy metabolism disorders, oxidative stress responses, myocardial cell apoptosis, autophagy, inflammatory responses, etc. According to the theory of restraining hyperactivity to acquire harmony, we believe that under normal circumstances, the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway functions normally, maintaining human physiological activities and energy metabolism. Under pathological conditions, the AMPK signaling pathway is abnormal, causing energy metabolism disorders, inflammatory responses, and myocardial fibrosis. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can regulate the AMPK signaling pathway through multiple mechanisms, targets, and effects, effectively curbing the occurrence and development of CHF. It has gradually become a research hotspot in the prevention and treatment of this disease. Guided by the theory of TCM, our research group, through literature review, summarized the relationship between the AMPK pathway and CHF and reviewed the research progress in the prevention and control of CHF with TCM active ingredients, TCM compound prescriptions, and Chinese patent medicines via regulating the AMPK pathway. The review aims to clarify the mechanism and targets of TCM in the treatment of CHF by regulating the AMPK pathway and guide the clinical treatment and drug development for CHF.
3.Acetyl-coenzyme A synthetase 2-mediated acetyl-coenzyme A accumulation promotes mitophagy and tumor growth via increased H3K27ac in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Shan LI ; Jie HU ; Yihan YAN ; Xinrui LIU ; Xiao DONG ; Huijun LIANG ; Xin TANG ; Junji TAO ; Rong ZHANG ; Yuan HU ; Ailong HUANG ; Kai WANG ; Ni TANG
Clinical and Molecular Hepatology 2026;32(2):661-682
Background/Aims:
Acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) is one of the most essential metabolites in cell metabolism but its function and concentration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain elusive and controversial.
Methods:
A comprehensive analysis of acetyl-CoA levels and acetyl-CoA synthetase 2 (ACSS2) expression across a range of samples, including patient specimens from both hepatitis B virus (HBV) positive and HBV negative HCC individuals, HBV-transgenic mouse HCC models, and multiple cell lines. Furthermore, to evaluate the functional significance of ACSS2 in HBV-related HCC, we implemented both genetic and pharmacological inhibition strategies targeting ACSS2. Molecular mechanism and mitophagy assessment were revealed by cleavage under target and tagmentation sequencing, RNA sequencing, bioinformatic analyses, transmission electron microscopy and JC-1 staining.
Results:
Our study revealed a distinct metabolic signature of HBV-related HCC, marked by elevated acetyl-CoA, which was driven by ACSS2. ACSS2 was upregulated by the carbohydrate response element-binding protein in HBV-related HCC. Furthermore, ACSS2 improved tumor cell proliferation, an effect that was dependent on its enzymatic activity. Mechanistically, ACSS2-induced acetyl-CoA accumulation activated voltage-dependent anion channels 1 transcription through increased H3K27ac occupancy, which subsequently promoted mitophagy and HBV-related HCC tumorigenesis. Notably, targeting ACSS2 by depletion or inhibition with a catalytic inhibitor significantly suppressed tumor growth.
Conclusions
These findings not only illustrate the interplay between metabolic reprogramming, epigenetic modification, and tumorigenesis in the context of HBV infection, but also highlight ACSS2 as a novel metabolic vulnerability in HBV-related HCC. Therefore, targeting ACSS2 could be a novel strategy against HBV-related HCC.
4.Risk analyses of infection source during the consolidation phase of schistosomiasis elimination in Lushan County of Sichuan Province
Chaofu WANG ; Shizhong WANG ; Zhiqiang REN ; Yang TANG ; Luyao HU ; Shoumei AI ; Mingzhou LI ; Rongzhi LI ; Chen PU ; Zisong WU
Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine 2026;38(5):394-397
ObjectiveTo analyze the potential risk of infection sources during the consolidation phase of schistosomiasis elimination in Lushan County (a mountainous region) of Sichuan Province, and to provide prevention and control strategies for the consolidation of schistosomiasis elimination achievements in mountainous areas. MethodsIn 2024, one to two villages with historically severe epidemics were selected in the heavily endemic townships of Lushan County as monitoring sites to carry out monitoring for wild animal feces, domestic animals, wild rats, free-roaming dogs, local residents, and mobile populations. Follow-up monitoring for previously infected individuals was carried out in Caoping Village of Siyan Town. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the risks associated with infection sources. ResultsA total of 115 fecal samples from 13 species of wildlife were incubated, with all negative. Blood tests were conducted on 492 cattle, 34 sheep, and 261 dogs, with all negative. A total of 2 520 rodent traps were set, capturing 67 wild rats with a capture rate of 2.66%, and no positive wild rats were found upon dissection. The activity track of 25 loose dogs was 2 212 meters at the farthest, 236 meters at the nearest, and 744 meters on average. a total of 68 wild droppings (all dog feces) were picked up along the way, with all negative. Blood tests were performed on 3 540 local population, yielding 39 blood-positive cases with a blood positive rate of 1.1%. Fecal examinations were conducted on 193 individuals, with all negative. A total of 315 blood tests were performed on the mobile population, identifying 1 positive case with a blood-positive rate of 0.32%. One person received a fecal examination, with zero positive. A follow-up survey of 505 previously infected individuals revealed 5 blood-positive cases, with a positive rate of 0.99%. Fecal examinations were conducted on 15 individuals, with all negative. ConclusionIn this investigation, no local or imported sources of schistosomiasis transmission were found. However, there was a wide variety and a large number of potential sources of infection in the local area. It is necessary to actively explore regional monitoring models for schistosomiasis elimination flexibly adjust prevention and control strategies according to local conditions, achieve precise prevention and control, and consolidate the achievements of elimination.
5.Incidence and influencing factors of atrial fibrillation in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Jiajia LI ; Hui HU ; Jian ZHANG ; Ju ZHAO ; Qiumei YANG ; Qingqing TANG ; Ling YUAN
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2026;37(4):86-90
Objective To analyze the incidence rate and risk factors of atrial fibrillation (AF) in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods A total of 392 patients with COPD in the hospital were selected from December 2020 to December 2024. Patients' data (medical history, echocardiographic data, etc.) were recorded. The incidence rate of AF in patients was recorded and the patients were grouped according to whether or not they developed AF. The differences were compared between the two groups, and the risk factors of AF occurrence in elderly patients with COPD were analyzed. Results Among the 392 patients with COPD, 127 cases (32.40%) met the diagnostic criteria of AF. There were statistically significant differences in age, pulmonary infection, heart failure, diabetes, smoking history, disease duration, LAD, severe renal insufficiency and coronary heart disease between the AF group and the non-AF group (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis suggested that age, pulmonary infection, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, smoking history, disease course, LAD, severe renal insufficiency and coronary heart disease were all risk factors for elderly patients with COPD (OR=1.129, 4.246, 3.955, 4.125, 2.038, 1.112, 1.102, 4.397, and 3.865, P<0.05). Conclusion The incidence rate of AF is high in elderly patients with COPD. Age, pulmonary infection, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, smoking history, course of disease, LAD, severe renal insufficiency, and coronary heart disease are all risk factors for AF.
6.Exploration on the diuretic mechanism of Zhuling Decoction on ADRN mice from CDK18/STUB1/AQP2 pathway
Wenfeng XU ; Fan WU ; Yajun PENG ; Qun TANG ; Xuhua LI ; Hua HU
International Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;47(5):624-629
Objective:To observe the diuretic effects of Zhuling Decoction on mice with adriamycin nephropathy (ADRN); To explore its mechanism.Methods:Totally 32 SPF male C57BL/6 mice were divided into a blank group of 7 mice and a model group of 25 mice using a random number table method. ADRN model was prepared by single tail vein injection of 0.01 g/kg of amphotericin. Two weeks later, the successfully modeled mice were divided into a model group (7 mice), a furosemide group (8 mice), and a Zhuling Decoction group (8 mice). The blank group and model group mice were given equal volumes of injection water by gavage. The furosemide group was given 2.6 mg/kg of furosemide by gavage, and the Zhuling Decoction group was given 6.5 g/kg of Zhuling Decoction by gavage, once a day, for 8 consecutive weeks. Changes in body weight and urine output of mice were observed. A biochemical analyzer was used to detect 24-hour urinary protein quantification and blood potassium and SCr levels in mice. HE staining was used to observe pathological changes in mouse kidneys, and immunohistochemistry and Western blot were used to detect the homology of cyclin dependent kinase 18 (CDK18), STIP1, and the expressions of U-box protein 1 (STUB1) and aquaporin 2 (AQP2) in mouse kidney tissue cells.Results:Compared with the model group, both the furosemide and Zhuling Decoction groups exhibited increased 24-hour urine output ( P<0.05); compared with the model group and furosemide group, Zhuling Decoction group showed reduced average optical density values and protein expressions of CDK18 and AQP2 ( P<0.05) and increased STUB1 average optical density value and protein expression ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Zhuling Decoction can increase 24-hour urine output in ADRN mice, and the mechanism may be related to down-regulation of CDK18 and AQP2 protein expressions and up-regulation of STUB1 protein expression, thereby modulating the CDK18/STUB1/AQP2 pathway and reducing water reabsorption.
7.Rapid rehabilitation nursing for one pediatric patient with pancreatic divisum undergoing en bloc pancreatoduodenectomy
Jinfeng ZHU ; Weishu HU ; Li TANG ; Lei CAI ; Rong HUANG ; Lechun HUANG ; Ruixin ZHENG ; Jing CAO
Journal of Clinical Medicine in Practice 2025;29(7):118-121
This article summarizes the rapid rehabilitation nursing experience for one pediatric pa-tient with pancreatic divisum who underwent en bloc pancreatoduodenectomy preserving the duodenum,common bile duct,and Oddi's sphincter(DCOPPHTR).The nursing care encompassed preoperative prehabilitation to enhance physical and psychological preparation,postoperative precise volume and dynamic blood glucose management,early mobilization to facilitate recovery,personalized nutritional support to improve nutritional status,psychological nursing to bolster confidence,and family involve-ment to enhance quality of life.The pediatric patient experienced rapid recovery and was discharged from the hospital.A six-month follow-up indicated a significant improvement in quality of life.
8.Analysis of bacterial colonization pathways and predictive factors of epidural analgesia catheters in patients with chronic pain
Zhuang TANG ; Liming ZHOU ; Ping HU ; Lin ZHAO ; Weipeng HONG ; Xingli SHEN ; Xingyu LI ; Lingjie YANG ; Qizhi HE
Journal of Clinical Medicine in Practice 2025;29(12):67-70,76
Objective To analyze the incidence,colonization pathways,and predictive factors of bacterial colonization of epidural analgesia catheters in patients with chronic pain.Methods A total of 150 patients with chronic pain who underwent continuous epidural catheterization(catheter in-dwelling time of 7 to 10 days)were selected as study subjects.Samples from three sites were collect-ed for bacterial culture.Clinical data of the patients were collected,and the positive rate of bacterial culture,characteristics of bacterial species distribution,and bacterial colonization pathways were ana-lyzed.The efficacy of predictive factors was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.Results The positive rates of bacterial culture in samples from the skin swabbing fluid around the puncture site,the subcutaneous segment of the catheter,and the catheter tip were 22.0%,7.3%,and 8.7%,respectively.Staphylococcus epidermidis was the predominant colonizing bacterial species.Spearman correlation coefficient analysis showed a significant correlation between the results of bacterial culture from the skin around the puncture site and catheter tip colonization(r=0.47,P<0.01).ROC curve analysis revealed that the area under the curve of bacterial culture results from the skin around the puncture site in predicting catheter tip bacterial colonization was 0.843,with a sensitivity of 84.9%and a specificity of 84.6%.Conclusion Bacterial migra-tion along the catheter is the main pathway for catheter tip bacterial colonization,and the results of bacterial culture from the skin around the puncture site are an effective predictive factor for the risk of bacterial colonization.
9.Effect of mindful diet in overweight/obese children
Qingjiao LI ; Lu TANG ; Liping HU ; Hua CAI
Journal of Clinical Medicine in Practice 2025;29(17):100-103,115
Objective To explore the impact of mindful diet intervention on dietary behaviors,body composition,and mindfulness levels in overweight/obese children.Methods A total of 74 over-weight/obese children who sought treatment at a tertiary-level hospital in Hunan Province were selected as study subjects.They were randomly divided into experimental group and control group using the random number table method,with 37 cases in each group.The control group implemented a conven-tional body weight management program,while the experimental group received mindful diet interven-tion in addition to the conventional program.Changes in body mass index(BMI),body fat percent-age,visceral fat area,dietary behaviors,and mindfulness levels were compared between the two groups before and after intervention.Results Before intervention,there were no statistically signifi-cant differences in general information,body composition,dietary behaviors,and mindfulness levels between the two groups(P>0.05).After 8 weeks of intervention,the BMI,body fat percentage,and visceral fat area of children in both groups were lower than those before intervention.The scores for e-motional diet,restrictive diet,and external diet were also lower than those before intervention,while the mindfulness levels were higher than those before intervention,with statistically significant differ-ences(P<0.05).The experimental group showed better results than the control group in terms of BMI,body fat percentage,visceral fat area,scores for emotional diet,restrictive diet,and external di-et,as well as mindfulness levels(P<0.05).Conclusion Mindful diet intervention can effectively improve dietary behaviors,reduce body fat percentage and visceral fat area,and enhance mindfulness levels in overweight/obese children.
10.Efficacy and safety of ketogenic diet on metabolic and reproductive outcomes in overweight/obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome:a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Lu TANG ; Sijia WENG ; Liping HU ; Qingjiao LI ; Hua CAI ; Bo JIANG
Journal of Clinical Medicine in Practice 2025;29(20):109-118
Objective The ketogenic diet(KD)is a dietary intervention with potential therapeu-tic effects on polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS),yet the existing evidence remains controversial.Fur-thermore,there is a lack of evidence-based medicine data for a comprehensive assessment of the safety of KD in the treatment of PCOS.This study aims to systematically evaluate,through a meta-analysis,the effects of KD on body composition,metabolic indicators,and reproductive hormone levels in over-weight/obese patients with PCOS,and to explore its safety and clinical applicability.Methods This study systematically searched PubMed,Web of Science,Embase,Cochrane Library,China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),Wanfang Database,and VIP Database.Randomized controlled trials(RCT)on KD for the treatment of PCOS were included,with the search time frame spanning from the establishment of each database to May 31,2025.Two researchers independently screened and extracted data according to inclusion and exclusion criteria,and assessed the quality of the in-cluded literature using the Cochrane Handbook.The Q-test and inconsistency index(I2)were used to evaluate the heterogeneity of the results.Based on the level of heterogeneity,a fixed-effects model or a random-effects model was selected for data pooling.Sensitivity analysis was employed to explore the robustness of the results.Results A total of 7 RCT studies involving 495 overweight/obese subjects were included in this study.Body composition analysis revealed that,compared with the control group,KD significantly reduced body mass index,body weight,waist circumference,waist-to-hip ra-tio,total fat mass,and visceral fat area in overweight/obese patients with PCOS(P<0.05),but had no significant effect on fat-free mass.Analysis of glucose and lipid metabolism indicated that KD sig-nificantly decreased fasting blood glucose,fasting insulin,insulin resistance index,and triglycerides(P<0.05),but had no significant impacts on total cholesterol,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.Reproductive hormone analysis showed that KD significantly reduced luteinizing hormone,the ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone,and total testosterone levels,while significantly increased sex hormone-binding globulin levels(P<0.05),but had no significant effect on follicle-stimulating hormone.Sensitivity analysis suggested that the results were relatively robust.In terms of safety,no serious adverse reactions were observed during the KD intervention;however,further verification through high-quality RCTs with larger sample sizes and long-term interventions is still required.Conclusion KD can effectively improve body composition,glucose metabolism,lipid metabolism indicators,and reproductive hormone levels in overweight/obese patients with PCOS.This study confirms that KD significantly increase sex hormone-binding globulin level and reduce visceral fat area.It is found that KD has a more pronounced effect on impro-ving triglycerides compared to its effects on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipo-protein cholesterol.The current evidence does not indicate significant safety risks associated with KD,but relevant conclusions still require further confirmation with more high-quality evidence.


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