1.Primary Cilium-mediated Mechano-metabolic Coupling: Cross-system Homeostatic Regulation of The Nervous, Bone, Vascular, and Renal Systems
Liang-Chen DUAN ; Hao-Liang HU ; Shu-Zhi WANG ; Jia-Long YAN ; Lin-Xi CHEN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):577-592
Primary cilia—those solitary, microtubule-based projections extending from the surface of most eukaryotic cells—are increasingly recognized not merely as cellular appendages, but as sophisticated signaling hubs. By compartmentalizing specific receptors (e.g., GPCRs) and effectors within a microdomain guarded by the transition zone, these organelles function effectively as high-gain sensors capable of integrating mechanical stimuli with metabolic cues. In this review, we examine the pivotal role of primary cilia across the nervous, bone-vascular, and renal landscapes, arguing for a unified “mechano-metabolic coupling” framework. Here, conserved ciliary modules are not static; rather, they are differentially deployed to uphold systemic homeostasis. Within the central nervous system, we position primary cilia as upstream integrators. We highlight how hypothalamic neuronal cilia concentrate metabolic receptors, such as the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), to interpret energy status. Moreover, the recent identification of serotonergic “axon-cilium synapses” points to a direct mode of neurotransmission, wherein 5-HT6 receptors drive nuclear signaling and chromatin accessibility to rapidly modulate gene expression. Through these mechanisms, central cilia modulate sympathetic tone and neuroendocrine output, effectively establishing the mechanical and metabolic “boundary conditions” under which peripheral organs operate. Dysfunction in these central hubs is linked to obesity and neurodevelopmental disorders, including Bardet-Biedl syndrome. In peripheral tissues, cilia serve as versatile mechanotransducers that convert physical forces into biochemical responses. Regarding the bone-vascular system, we discuss the translation of mechanical loads and fluid shear stress into structural remodeling. In osteoblasts, specifically, ciliary integrity is intrinsically linked to cholesterol and glucose metabolism, fine-tuning the balance between Hedgehog and Wnt/β-catenin signaling to govern osteogenesis and bone repair. A similar dynamic exists in the vasculature, where endothelial cilia sense shear stress to modulate KLF4 expression and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition—processes critical for valvulogenesis and vascular remodeling. Meanwhile, in the kidney, tubular cilia act as terminal effectors within a “shear-cilia-metabolism” axis. Here, fluid shear stress engages ciliary signaling to trigger AMPK-mediated lipophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis, thereby securing the ATP supply required for solute transport. Notably, dysregulation of this axis leads to metabolic reprogramming and aberrant proliferation, acting as a hallmark driver of cystogenesis in polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Crucially, this review attempts to dissect the often-conflated logic of cross-system integration by distinguishing 3 non-equivalent pathways: direct communication via ciliary extracellular vesicles, though this remains largely hypothetical in long-range signaling; “physiology-mediated cascades”, where ciliary dysfunction in a single organ—such as the kidney—precipitates systemic pathology through hemodynamic and metabolic shifts (e.g., altered blood pressure, fluid volume, or uremic toxins); and “parallel molecular defects”, where shared genetic mutations in ubiquitous components like the IFT machinery cause simultaneous, independent failures across multiple organ systems. Building on these distinctions, we propose a nested-loop model that links central set-points with peripheral feedback via physiological variables. Furthermore, we construct a “causality-to-translation” roadmap that pinpoints structural repair (e.g., targeting IFT assembly) and metabolic rescue (e.g., AMPK activation or autophagy induction) as promising therapeutic avenues. Ultimately, this framework provides a theoretical basis for deciphering the shared pathological mechanisms of multisystem ciliopathies, offering a strategic guide for the development of targeted interventions that go beyond symptomatic treatment.
2.Advancements in Gas-releasing Micro/Nanoplatforms for Overcoming MDR Bacterial Infections in Diabetic Wounds
Ruo-Can LIU ; Yu-Qian WANG ; Shuai ZHANG ; Shao-Zhi ZUO ; Yun-Di WU ; Xi-Long WU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(5):1356-1375
Chronic diabetic wounds, severely complicated by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections, represent a profound and escalating global health crisis. The intrinsically hostile microenvironment of diabetic wounds, characterized by localized hypoxia, persistent oxidative stress, and poor vascularization, creates an ideal niche for opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria readily construct dense extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) biofilms, which not only physically shield the microbes from host immune responses but also actively trap the wound in a state of chronic, unresolved inflammation. Consequently, conventional systemic and topical antibiotic therapies are becoming increasingly futile, as poor perfusion at the wound site restricts drug bioavailability, while the rapid genetic evolution of bacteria and the impenetrable nature of biofilms lead to catastrophic treatment failures, often culminating in severe tissue necrosis and lower-extremity amputations. To circumvent the limitations of traditional antimicrobials, therapeutic gas delivery has emerged as a highly promising, paradigm-shifting strategy. Gaseous signaling molecules, particularly nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and hydrogen (H2), possess unique physicochemical properties that allow them to seamlessly penetrate dense biofilm matrices and cellular membranes. Once inside, these gases operate via multi-targeted mechanisms that are incredibly difficult for bacteria to develop resistance against; for instance, NO induces severe lipid peroxidation and DNA cleavage in bacteria, CO downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines, H2S significantly accelerates endothelial cell migration for neovascularization, and H2 acts as a powerful selective antioxidant to neutralize tissue-damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Together, these therapeutic gases not only exert broad-spectrum bactericidal effects but also actively reprogram the wound bed by promoting the critical M1-to-M2 macrophage polarization and stimulating angiogenesis. Despite their immense biological potential, the direct clinical translation of gas therapies is severely hindered by inherent physicochemical drawbacks, including extreme volatility, short physiological half-lives, poor aqueous solubility, and the high risk of off-target systemic toxicity, if applied indiscriminately. To conquer these immense pharmacokinetic barriers, cutting-edge advancements in materials science have driven the development of gas-releasing micro- and nanoplatforms. Utilizing sophisticated carriers such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), mesoporous silica, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and injectable hydrogels, researchers can now encapsulate gas-donor molecules to achieve sustained, localized delivery. More importantly, these advanced nanoplatforms are ingeniously engineered to be stimuli-responsive. By exploiting the pathological hallmarks of the diabetic wound environment, such as elevated glucose concentrations, acidic pH, and overexpressed ROS, or by utilizing external triggers like near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation and ultrasound, these intelligent platforms ensure on-demand, precise spatio-temporal gas release. This often allows for powerful synergistic combinations, such as photothermal or photodynamic therapy coupled with gas release, thereby obliterating biofilms while sparing healthy tissue. While the therapeutic outcomes of these smart delivery systems in eradicating MDR infections and accelerating tissue repair are unprecedented, several critical challenges remain before widespread clinical adoption, as long-term biosafety profiles of the carrier nanomaterials, complexities in large-scale good manufacturing practice (GMP) production, and stringent regulatory hurdles must be rigorously addressed. Looking forward, the next frontier lies in the realm of precision medicine and theranostics, where future research must focus on the seamless integration of these gas-releasing platforms with flexible, wearable biosensors capable of continuously monitoring wound biomarkers (e.g., pH, temperature, uric acid) in real-time. Coupled with artificial intelligence algorithms to govern automated, closed-loop adaptive dosing, these next-generation smart dressings hold the ultimate potential to comprehensively transform the clinical management of complex, infected diabetic wounds.
3.Advancements in Gas-releasing Micro/Nanoplatforms for Overcoming MDR Bacterial Infections in Diabetic Wounds
Ruo-Can LIU ; Yu-Qian WANG ; Shuai ZHANG ; Shao-Zhi ZUO ; Yun-Di WU ; Xi-Long WU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(5):1356-1375
Chronic diabetic wounds, severely complicated by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections, represent a profound and escalating global health crisis. The intrinsically hostile microenvironment of diabetic wounds, characterized by localized hypoxia, persistent oxidative stress, and poor vascularization, creates an ideal niche for opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria readily construct dense extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) biofilms, which not only physically shield the microbes from host immune responses but also actively trap the wound in a state of chronic, unresolved inflammation. Consequently, conventional systemic and topical antibiotic therapies are becoming increasingly futile, as poor perfusion at the wound site restricts drug bioavailability, while the rapid genetic evolution of bacteria and the impenetrable nature of biofilms lead to catastrophic treatment failures, often culminating in severe tissue necrosis and lower-extremity amputations. To circumvent the limitations of traditional antimicrobials, therapeutic gas delivery has emerged as a highly promising, paradigm-shifting strategy. Gaseous signaling molecules, particularly nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and hydrogen (H2), possess unique physicochemical properties that allow them to seamlessly penetrate dense biofilm matrices and cellular membranes. Once inside, these gases operate via multi-targeted mechanisms that are incredibly difficult for bacteria to develop resistance against; for instance, NO induces severe lipid peroxidation and DNA cleavage in bacteria, CO downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines, H2S significantly accelerates endothelial cell migration for neovascularization, and H2 acts as a powerful selective antioxidant to neutralize tissue-damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Together, these therapeutic gases not only exert broad-spectrum bactericidal effects but also actively reprogram the wound bed by promoting the critical M1-to-M2 macrophage polarization and stimulating angiogenesis. Despite their immense biological potential, the direct clinical translation of gas therapies is severely hindered by inherent physicochemical drawbacks, including extreme volatility, short physiological half-lives, poor aqueous solubility, and the high risk of off-target systemic toxicity, if applied indiscriminately. To conquer these immense pharmacokinetic barriers, cutting-edge advancements in materials science have driven the development of gas-releasing micro- and nanoplatforms. Utilizing sophisticated carriers such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), mesoporous silica, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and injectable hydrogels, researchers can now encapsulate gas-donor molecules to achieve sustained, localized delivery. More importantly, these advanced nanoplatforms are ingeniously engineered to be stimuli-responsive. By exploiting the pathological hallmarks of the diabetic wound environment, such as elevated glucose concentrations, acidic pH, and overexpressed ROS, or by utilizing external triggers like near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation and ultrasound, these intelligent platforms ensure on-demand, precise spatio-temporal gas release. This often allows for powerful synergistic combinations, such as photothermal or photodynamic therapy coupled with gas release, thereby obliterating biofilms while sparing healthy tissue. While the therapeutic outcomes of these smart delivery systems in eradicating MDR infections and accelerating tissue repair are unprecedented, several critical challenges remain before widespread clinical adoption, as long-term biosafety profiles of the carrier nanomaterials, complexities in large-scale good manufacturing practice (GMP) production, and stringent regulatory hurdles must be rigorously addressed. Looking forward, the next frontier lies in the realm of precision medicine and theranostics, where future research must focus on the seamless integration of these gas-releasing platforms with flexible, wearable biosensors capable of continuously monitoring wound biomarkers (e.g., pH, temperature, uric acid) in real-time. Coupled with artificial intelligence algorithms to govern automated, closed-loop adaptive dosing, these next-generation smart dressings hold the ultimate potential to comprehensively transform the clinical management of complex, infected diabetic wounds.
4.Effect of Runmu Xiaoyao Powder on TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Mice with Dry Eye and Liver Depression-heat Syndrome
Xin PENG ; Xi LONG ; Yuan ZHONG ; Jun PENG ; Qinghua PENG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(13):112-122
ObjectiveThis paper aims to investigate the effect and mechanism of Runmu Xiaoyao powder on mice with dry eye and the syndrome of liver depression-heat syndrome based on the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. MethodsSixty-six C57BL/6J female mice were randomly divided into a normal group, a model group, a sodium hyaluronate group, and high-, medium-, and low-dose Runmu Xiaoyao powder groups, with 11 mice per group. Except for those in the normal group, mice in the other groups were subjected to mouse models with dry eye and liver depression-heat syndrome by instilling a benzalkonium chloride solution and applying chronic pain stimulation in a dry environment. After modeling, mice in the high-, medium-, and low-dose Runmu Xiaoyao powder groups were administered intragastrically with 29.7, 14.85, 7.43 g·kg-1, respectively, twice a day for 14 consecutive days. The mice in the sodium hyaluronate group received 5 μL of sodium hyaluronate eye drops in each eye twice daily. The mice in the normal and model groups were administered intragastrically with an equal volume of deionized water. Measurements were taken of tear secretion in mice, irritability scores, corneal fluorescein staining, and histopathological changes in the cornea, lacrimal glands, meibomian glands, and liver tissue. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the protein expression of IL-1β and TNF-α in corneal and lacrimal gland tissues. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Real-time PCR) and Western blot were employed to detect the mRNA and protein expressions of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB p65 in corneal, lacrimal gland, and meibomian gland tissues. ResultsCompared with those in the normal group, mice in the model group exhibited significantly reduced tear secretion, significantly higher irritability scores, and more pronounced corneal fluorescence staining, with marked pathological damage observed in the cornea, lacrimal glands, meibomian glands, and liver tissue. IL-1β and TNF-α levels in serum were significantly elevated. The protein expressions of IL-1β and TNF-α in corneal and lacrimal gland tissues, as well as the mRNA and protein expressions of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB p65 in corneal, lacrimal gland, and meibomian gland tissues, were all significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the sodium hyaluronate group and Runmu Xiaoyao powder groups with different doses exhibited increased tear secretion to varying degrees, alleviated corneal fluorescence staining and histopathological damage, reduced IL-1β and TNF-α levels in serum, and downregulated protein expressions of IL-1β and TNF-α in corneal and lacrimal gland tissues, as well as the mRNA and protein expressions of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB p65 in corneal, lacrimal gland, and meibomian gland tissues. The high-dose Runmu Xiaoyao powder group demonstrated a more pronounced effect, with multiple indicators showing superior results compared to those in the sodium hyaluronate group (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionRunmu Xiaoyao powder down-regulates the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway activity in the cornea, lacrimal glands, and meibomian glands of model mice with dry eye and liver depression-heat syndrome, thereby suppressing inflammatory responses and mitigating ocular surface tissue damage. The therapeutic effect is dose-dependent, and the high-dose group exerts the most prominent effect.
5.Exploration on Biological Basis of Tumor and Strategies for Prevention and Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Perspective of Disorders of Physique,Qi and Spirit
Long ZHANG ; Xinyi LU ; Jianhui TIAN ; Pan YU ; Ze LIU ; Yun YANG ; Xi CHENG ; Jialiang YAO
Journal of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;42(8):2058-2064
The life view of physique-qi-spirit trinity is the core theory for explaining the physiological activities of human body and the evolution of disease pathology in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),and will bring about an overview of TCM tumorigenesis.This paper explores the biological basis of tumor from the perspective of disorders of physique,qi and spirit:there is a correlation between qi-physique transformation and energy and substance metabolism,and between spirit-emotion and neuromodulation;the nerve-metabolism pathway contributes to partial biological basis of tumor from the perspective of disorders of physique,qi and spirit.Furthermore,it puts forward the strategies for prevention and treatment with TCM through the simultaneous regulation of physique,qi and spirit:eliminating the mass to inhibit the tumor,and improving physique to preserve life in the view of treating physique;replenishing qi to strengthen the body,and ventilating qi to remove toxins in the view of treating qi;regulating the spirit to treat cancer through comprehensive therapy in the view of treating spirit.The exploration on the biological basis of tumor from the perspective of disorders of physique,qi and spirit will further embody the unique advantages of TCM theories in understanding malignant tumors,and will provide useful references for the model of synergistic prevention and treatment of malignant tumors with TCM.
6.Relationship of 25- (OH) D and MCP-1 levels with bone mineral density and bone metabolism indexes in preschool children after fractures
Jiangtao LONG ; Jie LI ; Deming BAI ; Qianqian WANG ; Yuankai YANG ; Hongwei XI
Chinese Journal of Endocrine Surgery 2025;19(2):252-256
Objective:To investigate the relationship of the levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin (OH) D, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism in preschool children after fractures.Methods:General data of 200 preschool children with fractures admitted to the Department of Orthopedics of Shanxi Children’s Hospital from Apr. 2021 to Jun. 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. The 25- (OH) D level of the children after fracture was determined by electrochemical luminescence method. According to the 25- (OH) D level, the children were divided into VitD deficiency group, VitD insufficient group and VitD sufficient group. The MCP-1 level, BMD and bone metabolism indexes of children among groups were compared and analyzed. SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used to analyze the data in the paper. According to the data type, t test or χ2 test were used to compare among the groups, and the correlation of 25- (OH) D and MCP-1 levels with BMD and bone metabolism indexes was analyzed by Spearman and Pearson methods. Results:The difference of 25- (OH) D levels in different age childeren was statistically significant ( t = 145.26, P<0.05) , and the analysis showed that 26 cases were VitD deficient, 64 cases were VitD insufficient, and 110 cases were VitD sufficient; The mean BMD in VitD patients with different levels was significantly different ( F=783.25, P<0.05) ; With the increase of MCP-1, PTH and TPINP levels decreased ( F=78.98, 703.57, 243.27, P<0.05) , while the levels of PICP and BGP increased ( F=122.97, 340.32, P<0.05) ; 25- (OH) D was positively correlated with BMD, PICP and BGP ( r=0.93, 0.76, 0.87, P<0.05) , and negatively correlated with PTH and TPINP ( r=-0.94, -0.81, P<0.05) . MCP-1 was negatively correlated with BMD, PICP and BGP ( r=-0.54, -0.51, -0.56, P<0.05) , and positively correlated with PTH and TPINP ( r=0.57, 0.55, P<0.05) . Conclusions:The 25- (OH) D level is significantly correlated with BMD and bone metabolism indexes in preschool children after fracture, and the lack and insufficiency of VitD significantly affect BMD and bone metabolism status. At the same time, MCP-1 may also play an important role in metabolic changes after fracture. Therefore, in clinical treatment, it is necessary to strengthen the monitoring and management of 25- (OH) D and MCP-1 levels after fracture in children, which is of great significance to promote bone healing and improve bone density.
7.Mid-term follow-up and clinical experience of a novel expandable PEEK implant in osteoporotic thoraco-lumbar fractures
Long CHEN ; Xiaozhen WANG ; Jintao XI ; Qilin LU
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(8):1181-1191
Objective To assess the mid-term clinical prognosis and radiological outcomes of a novel expandable PEEK(polyetheretherketone)vertebral replacement device used for anterior and middle column recon-struction in the thoracolumbar spine of osteoporotic patients.Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 52 patients with single-segment osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures who underwent vertebral body replacement surgery between January 2020 and December 2023.The surgical procedures included either a thoracoscopic or minimally invasive anterior approach,combined with posterior short-segment cement-augmented screw fixation.According to the type of replacement material used,patients were categorized into two groups:the novel PEEK group and the titanium Mesh cage group.Data on surgical time,intraoperative blood loss,and postoperative complications were collected.The Visual Analogue Score(VAS),Oswestry Disability Index(ODI),local kyphotic angle(LKA),fusion segment height(D-line),anterior vertebral body height(AVBH),and posterior vertebral body height(PVBH)were assessed at three stages:preoperatively,immediately postoperatively,and during the final follow-up.Results All patients were successfully discharged.In the PEEK group,the average operative time was(235.28±58.69)minutes,and intraoperative blood loss was(680.00±163.30)mL.The mean follow-up duration was(14.12±2.44)months.The VAS score decreased significantly from(7.44±0.87)preoperatively to(2.24±0.93)at the final follow-up,and the ODI score also decreased significantly from(42.64±4.86)preoperatively to(11.84±3.73)at the final follow-up,indicating substantial improvement in symptoms and function(P<0.05).At the final follow-up,LKA,D-line,and AVBH exhibited partial loss compared to immediate postoperative values(P>0.05),but they remained significantly improved compared to preoperative values(P<0.05).The postoperative complication rate was 12.00%(3/25),and the fusion rate at the final follow-up was 100.00%.Similarly,the Mesh group effectively improved patient symptoms,function,and vertebral height(P<0.05).However,at the final follow-up,the PEEK group demonstrated significantly better LKA,D-line,and AVBH values compared to the Mesh group(P<0.05).Conclusion The short-segment cement-augmented internal fixation in combination with the novel expandable PEEK replacement device represents a viable solution for anterior column reconstruction in osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures,as evidenced by its mid-term outcomes of effective pain relief,significant functional improvement,sustained maintenance of vertebral height,and successful deformity correction.
8.The mediating role of activity of daily living between social support and cognitive function of rural elderly
Xunqiong ZHOU ; Qingyue WU ; Meishu DENG ; Jingyuan YANG ; Quanxiang ZHOU ; Weina XUE ; Xi LONG ; Xing YANG
Chinese Journal of Behavioral Medicine and Brain Science 2025;34(7):645-651
Objective:To explore the mediating role of activity of daily living between social support and cognitive function of rural elderly.Methods:A face-to-face questionnaire survey was conducted from July to August 2019 among 1 626 rural elderly people selected by multi-stage cluster random method in Guiyang City and Qiannan Prefecture, Guizhou Province.The contents include general situation, social support rate scale (SSRS), activity of daily living scale (ADL) and mini-mental state examination (MMSE). Partial correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the relationship among social support, activity of daily living and cognitive function in the elderly by SPSS 23.0 software. AMOS 28.0 software was used to construct structural equation models, and Bootstrap method was used to test the mediating role of activity of daily living.Results:The scores of cognitive function, social support and activity of daily living of the rural elderly were (20.83±5.47), (34.96±6.42) and (16.51±3.29), respectively.There were statistically significant differences in the cognitive function scores among rural elderly with different levels of social support and activity of daily living( F=33.418, t=25.533, P<0.01). The partial correlation analysis showed that the social support score was positively correlated with the cognitive function score ( r=0.161, P<0.01), and the activity of daily living score was negatively correlated with scores of social support and cognitive function ( r=-0.083, -0.453, both P<0.01). Multiple linear stepwise regression analysis showed that social support, objective support dimensions, activity of daily living and instrumental activity of daily living were influencing factors of cognitive function of rural elderly( P<0.001).The results of structural equation model showed that the activity of daily living played a partial mediating role between social support and cognitive function in rural elderly, with the mediating effect of 0.046 (95% CI=0.025-0.075), accounting for 13.18% of total effect (effect value=0.349, 95% CI=0.277-0.415). Conclusion:The activity of daily living of rural elderly plays a partial mediating effect between social support and cognitive functioning.
9.Effects of Rutong Ruanjian Tablets on angiogenesis in a rat model of preneoplastic breast cancer of Liver-Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis Pattern via DLL4/Notch1/Hes1 pathway
Hua YANG ; Jun-yao LONG ; Jie GONG ; Bing-bing LU ; Xi ZOU ; Yu-rong WU ; Li-fang LIU ; Hui LIU ; Qi-hua CHEN
Chinese Traditional Patent Medicine 2025;47(3):774-781
AIM To investigate the effects of Rutong Ruanjian Tablets on angiogenesis in cancer tissues of rats with preneoplastic breast cancer(PBC).METHODS 60 female SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group of 10 rats and a model group of 50 rats for the establishment of the PBC models of Liver-Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis Pattern with 9 weeks of oral administration of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene(DMBA)and cervical ligation.After successful modeling,the rats were randomly divided into the model group,the tamoxifen group(3.2 mg/kg),the Rutong Ruanjian Tablets group(128 mg/kg),the 3,5-difluorobenzoyl group(DAPT,5 mg/kg),and the Rutong Ruanjian Tablets(128 mg/kg via gavage)+DAPT(5 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection)group,for 1 month corresponding drug administration,with 10 rats in each group.Then the rats had their cancer progression and syndrome scores observed;their angiogenesis evaluated by assessment of microvascular density(MVD);their vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)expression assessed by immunohistochemistry;and their mRNA and protein expressions of proteins related to the DLL4/Notch1/Hes1 pathway measured using RT-qPCR,immunohistochemistry and Western blot.RESULTS During carcinogenesis of rats induced by DMBA,there was gradual disappearance of E-cadherin expression and consistency of HE staining result with the PBC progression confirming the success of the modeling.Compared with the blank group,the model group showed increased MVD values,mRNA expression of Notch1 and Hes1,and protein expressions of VEGF,DLL4,Notch1 and Hes1(P<0.05,P<0.01).Compared with the model group,the Rutong Ruanjian Tablets group exhibited reduced MVD values,mRNA expression of Notch1 and Hes1,and protein expressions of VEGF,DLL4,Notch1 and Hes1(P<0.05,P<0.01).The Rutong Ruanjian Tablets+DAPT group showed reduced mRNA expression of Notch1 and Hes1,and protein expressions of DLL4,Notch1 and Hes1 compared to the Rutong Ruanjian Tablets group(P<0.05,P<0.01).CONCLUSION Rutong Ruanjian Tablets can inhibit angiogenesis and attenuate cancer progression in PBC rats of Liver-Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis Pattern,and the mechanism may lie in the downregulation of DLL4/Notch1/Hes1 signaling pathway related proteins.
10.Research on In-Situ Extractive Ionization for Original Ecological Samples and Its Miniature Device
Xiao-Feng DONG ; Feng LIU ; You-Han XUE ; Xi-De YE ; Shuang-Long WANG
Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry 2025;53(5):749-757
Current ambient mass spectrometry ionization often requires external auxiliary equipment such as high-voltage power supply,gas cylinder,and syringe pump.Moreover,the process of sample preparation is cumbersome,and the experimental operations are complex,which makes it difficult to adapt to real-time on-site detection.In this work,a novel method was proposed,in which direct sampling of raw samples,online extraction of interest analytes,and ionization of target molecules were integrated into a single unit.With the developed method,the in-situ extraction and nano-electrospray ionization for both liquid and solid raw samples were achieved.Also,a handheld ion source and its pose adjustment device were developed,and the position and angle parameters were subsequently optimized.The performance of the ionization device was tested using standard solutions of caffeine and reserpine.The limits of detection(LODs)were 0.08 μg/L and 0.14 μg/L,with relative standard deviations(RSDs)≤3.7% and≤5.6%,respectively,indicating that the device possessed high sensitivity and stability.Using this device,three different concentrations of reserpine standard solutions were continuously tested for five days.The intra-day RSDs were consistently≤4.7% and the inter-day RSDs were all≤10.3%,showing the good working stability of the device.Without any pretreatment,a rapid qualitative detection of medicinal components including astragaloside II and cycloastragenol in five traditional Chinese medicines was carried out,with RSDs≤8.0% and≤7.1%,respectively.Additionally,rapid qualitative detection of gallic acid,a medicinal component,in white peony roots,and hypaphorine as well as quercetin in cowherb seeds were carried out,with RSDs≤7.0%,≤6.4% and≤6.1%,respectively.These results demonstrated that the ionization technology and device exhibited good stability during qualitative detection of raw samples.

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail