1.Luoshi Neiyi Prescription Treats Endometriosis Through TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Yuanyuan RUAN ; Sai XU ; Jiangyue TANG ; Xiang LI ; You ZOU ; Fangli PEI ; Lizheng WU ; Kaidi ZHENG ; Shuhong LIN ; Weilan ZHONG ; Cheng ZENG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(19):185-196
ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanism by which Luoshi Neiyi prescription treats endometriosis (EMs) through the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. MethodsAnimal experiments were conducted with 50 female SD rats, which were randomized into a sham operation group (10 rats) and a modeling group (40 rats). An autologous endometrial transplantation method was used for the modeling of EMs. The 36 successfully modeled rats were randomly allocated into four groups (n=9 each): The model group, the low-dose (7.87 g·kg-1) Luoshi Neiyi prescription group, the high-dose (15.74 g·kg-1) Luoshi Neiyi prescription group, and the dienogest (0.20 mg·kg-1) group. The physiological status and ectopic lesion volumes of rats in each group were observed. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the morphology of the eutopic endometrial tissue. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to measure the levels of inflammatory factors including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the serum of EMs rats. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) in the eutopic endometrial tissue. Western blot was adopted to determine the protein levels of TLR4, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB (p-NF-κB)/NF-κB, MMP-9, and VEGFA in the eutopic endometrial tissue. In the cell experiments, the cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was employed to screen the optimal concentration of Luoshi Neiyi prescription-containing serum, and a scratch assay was performed to assess the migration ability of iheESCs cells. Interventions with Luoshi Neiyi prescription-containing serum, resatorvid (TAK-242, a TLR4 inhibitor), and lipopolysaccharides (LPS, a TLR4 agonist) were conducted, and Western blot was used to detect the expression of proteins related to the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. ResultsThis experiment successfully replicated 36 EMs rat models. Compared with the sham operation group, the model group exhibited visible ectopic lesions on the abdominal wall and an increase in the writhing response score (P<0.01). Furthermore, HE staining revealed the model group exhibited a thickened eutopic epithelium, stromal cell disarrangement, and evident infiltration of inflammatory cells. In addition, the model group showed elevated serum levels of IL-1β and PGE2 (P<0.05, P<0.01), increased positive expression of MMP-9 and VEGFA in the ectopic endometrial tissue (P<0.01), and up-regulated protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-NF-κB/NF-κB, MMP-9, and VEGFA in the ectopic endometrial tissue (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, all treatment groups exhibited a reduction in the ectopic lesion volume (P<0.01). Furthermore, the writhing response scores were decreased in the high-dose Luoshi Neiyi prescription group and the dienogest group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The pathological state of the ectopic endometrial tissue was alleviated to varying degrees in the treatment groups. Low-dose Luoshi Neiyi prescription reduced serum PGE2 levels, and high-dose Luoshi Neiyi prescription and dienogest decreased serum IL-1β and PGE2 levels in EMs rats (P<0.05, P<0.01). The treatment groups showed decreased positive expression of MMP-9 and VEGFA in the ectopic endometrial tissue (P<0.05, P<0.01) and down-regulated protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-NF-κB/NF-κB, MMP-9, and VEGFA in the ectopic endometrial tissue (P<0.05, P<0.01). The cell experiments showed that 5%, 10%, and 20% Luoshi Neiyi prescription-containing sera significantly reduced the viability and inhibited the migration of iheESCs. Compared with the control group, 5%, 10%, and 20% Luoshi Neiyi prescription-containing serum groups and the TAK-242 group showed reduced protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-NF-κB/NF-κB, MMP-9, and VEGFA (P<0.01). Compared with the control group, the LPS group showed increased expression of the above proteins (P<0.01). Compared with the LPS group, the LPS+5%, 10%, and 20% Luoshi Neiyi prescription-containing serum groups showed reduced expression of the above proteins (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionLuoshi Neiyi prescription may modulate the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway to reduce the inflammatory response and histopathological damage in the eutopic endometrium and suppress the adhesive, invasive, and angiogenic biological processes in the ectopic endometrial tissue, thereby exerting its therapeutic effect on EMs.
2.Two Cases of Psychiatric Symptoms Associated with Zonisamide Antiepileptic Treatment
Cun-Bo WU ; Pei-Sen YAO ; Li-Chao SU ; Zhang-Ya LIN
Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience 2026;24(1):202-206
To report two cases of psychiatric symptoms associated with zonisamide, an antiepileptic drug, and raise clinical awareness of this potential adverse effect. Two male patients with epilepsy treated with zonisamide were retrospectively analyzed. Case 1 (25 years old) developed acute emotional and behavioral abnormalities (e.g., insomnia, aggression, incoherent speech) after switching from sodium valproate to zonisamide (200 mg/day). Case 2 (48 years old) had long-term zonisamide use (≥5 years) with persistent treatment-resistant psychotic symptoms (e.g., delusions, command hallucinations). Clinical courses, medication adjustments, and symptom responses were documented. In Case 1, psychiatric symptoms resolved after discontinuing zonisamide and switching to sodium valproate, with improved mood stability and reduced impulsivity. In Case 2, despite escalating antipsychotic medications (risperidone, clozapine), psychotic symptoms persisted, likely due to ongoing zonisamide use. Both cases highlighted zonisamide’s potential to exacerbate or induce psychiatric manifestations, possibly via mechanisms involving sodium/calcium channel inhibition and neurotransmitter dysregulation (e.g., dopamine, serotonin). Zonisamide can cause or worsen psychiatric symptoms, particularly in vulnerable individuals. Clinicians should monitor for mental health changes during zonisamide treatment and consider drug discontinuation or substitution with alternative antiepileptics (e.g., sodium valproate) if psychiatric adverse effects emerge. Awareness of this association is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and optimize epilepsy management.
3.Application of Carbon Nanoparticle-Manganese Dioxide Injection in Gastrointestinal Staining-Based Marking and Localization in Rats and Pigs
Wanlin CHEN ; Qingrui DONG ; Mengtao LI ; Nan LIN ; Hu ZHAO ; Zaizhong ZHANG ; Lingjun ZENG ; Pei LI ; Jin YANG ; Yu WANG ; Aiwen HUANG
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2026;46(5):727-739
ObjectiveTo develop a carbon nanoparticle-manganese dioxide (CN-MnO2) injection integrating visually identifiable staining and magnetic resonance (MR) T1/T2 dual-modal imaging, and to systematically evaluate its physicochemical properties, critical quality attributes, biocompatibility, and efficacy for gastrointestinal marking and localization. MethodsCN-MnO2 was prepared using a mild liquid-phase in situ redox deposition strategy and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The pH of CN-MnO2 was directly measured using a pH meter. The osmolality pressure of CN-MnO2 was determined by the freezing point depression method. The bacterial endotoxin was detected using the gel-clot Limulus amebocyte lysate test, which did not rely on absorbance readings. The appearance of the CN-MnO2 injection solution stored at 4 ℃ under light shielding and sealed for 0, 5, and 10 days was observed, and its hydrated particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and pH were also measured. With gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd-DTPA) as the positive control, different concentration gradients were established, and T1 and T2 relaxation times were measured to construct concentration-dependent plots of the longitudinal and transverse relaxation rates (R1 and R2) and calculate the corresponding relaxivities (r1 and r2), compare relaxivity performance, and determine the working concentration for subsequent in vivo experiments. Cytocompatibility was assessed using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay and live/dead staining. Sixteen male 6-week-old SD rats were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group (n=8 per group) and subcutaneously injected with CN-MnO2 injection at a total Mn concentration of 0.80 mmol/L or an equal volume of normal saline, respectively. Short-term in vivo safety was evaluated by regular body weight monitoring, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of major organs, hematological and serum biochemical analyses, inflammatory cytokine detection, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) analysis. Eight male 5–6-month-old Bama minipigs were randomly assigned to a CN-MnO2 group (n=6) and a carbon nanoparticle suspension injection (CNSI) group (n=2). CN-MnO2 injection or CNSI was injected subserosally into the stomach, small intestine, and colon. Within 5 min after each injection, the maximum staining diameter at each injection site was measured and recorded. MR T1WI/T2WI scans were performed on days 3 and 7 after injection to evaluate MR visualization at the injection sites. At the end of observation, the injection sites and major organs were collected for histopathological evaluation by hematoxylin-eosin staining. ResultsCN-MnO2 appeared as a black suspension, with no obvious aggregation or sedimentation after standing at room temperature (20-25 ℃) for 15 days. Its average hydrodynamic diameter was approximately (228.7±15.3) nm, the polydispersity index was 0.184±0.021, and the zeta potential was (-24.6±2.8) mV. XPS showed that CN-MnO2 was mainly composed of C, O, and Mn, with oxygen accounting for approximately 68.82%. The Mn 2p spectrum exhibited two characteristic peaks at 642.4 and 653.1 eV. XRD indicated that low-crystallinity δ-MnO2 was dispersed within the carbon matrix. The pH was 6.82±0.06, the osmolality was (298.4±6.7) mOsm/kg, and the bacterial endotoxin level was below the detection limit. In vitro MR imaging showed a clear concentration-dependent response, with r1 and r2 values of 9.6 L·mmol-1·s-1 and 17.2 L·mmol-1·s-1, respectively, indicating favorable T1/T2 contrast performance superior to that of Gd-DTPA. At 0.80 mmol/L, CN-MnO2 showed no obvious cytotoxicity in vitro. Short-term safety evaluation in SD rats revealed no obvious inflammatory response, impairment of liver or renal function, or abnormal manganese accumulation in major organs. In Bama minipigs, the mean staining diameters of the CN-MnO2 group in the stomach, small intestine, and colon were (0.65±0.12) cm, (0.61±0.11) cm, and (0.58±0.10) cm, respectively, with no significant difference among the three injection sites (P>0.05). The overall mean staining diameter was smaller in the CN-MnO2 group than in the CNSI group (P<0.05). MR examinations showed that the injection sites were identifiable on both day 3 and day 7, with stronger signals observed on day 3. At the end of observation, no obvious pathological abnormalities were observed at the injection sites or in major organs. ConclusionA CN-MnO2 injection with uniform particle size and stable physicochemical properties can be successfully prepared. This formulation integrates visible gastrointestinal staining with MR T1/T2 dual-modal imaging, providing a new strategy for preoperative gastrointestinal marking and localization as well as precise intraoperative resection.
4.Preliminary exploration of the mode and timing of delivery for complex fetal congenital heart disease
Junshu XIE ; Manman HAN ; Xiuju YIN ; Tiantian HAN ; Qiuyan PEI ; Lin ZHANG ; Huili ZHANG ; Shoujun LI ; Xiaohong ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2025;60(10):763-771
Objective:To investigate the mode and timing of delivery in pregnant women with complex fetal congenital heart disease (CHD) detected by prenatal ultrasound.Methods:The clinical data of 123 fetuses with complex CHD detected by prenatal ultrasound in Peking University People′s Hospital from January 2016 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Pregnant women with indications for prenatal diagnosis underwent G-banding karyotype analysis, single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP arrry) or whole exome sequencing after informed consent. Integrated managements were provided for pregnant women with complex CHD during pregnancy and perinatal period, and to determine the mode and timing of delivery. Infants with complex CHD received timely treatment or referral after birth.Results:The gestational age at ultrasound diagnosis of the 123 fetuses with complex CHD was (23.7±3.4) weeks. There were 11 cases (8.9%) of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC), 14 cases (11.4%) of anomalous pulmonary valve (PVA), 7 cases (5.7%) of right ventricle double outlet (RVDO), 13 cases (10.6%) of anomalous aortic arch, 69 cases (56.1%) of transposition of the great arteries (TGA), 9 cases (7.3%) of other types. All cases were treated with fetal preservation after prenatal consultation. Among the 72 cases undergoing prenatal diagnosis, 9 cases (12.5%) had chromosomal variations. Fifty-five cases (44.7%, 55/123) underwent trial of labor, of which 46 cases (37.4%, 46/123) had successful vaginal delivery, including 6 cases of forceps delivery, and other 9 cases of failed trial of labor transferred to cesarean section. A total of 77 cases of pregnant women underwent cesarean section. Except for the 21 cases of pregnant women who asked for cesarean section, the cesarean section rate of pregnant women with complex CHD was 45.5% (56/123), which was not significantly different from the average cesarean section rate of the same period in our hospital (40.2%; χ2=7.34, P=0.270). The gestational age at delivery of the 123 fetuses with complex CHD was (37.9±1.4) weeks, the birth weight of the neonates was (3 099±480) g, and the umbilical artery blood pH value was 7.31±0.05. The oxygen saturation of 86 cases before and after alprostadil infusion were (72.8±6.0)% and (80.5±5.0)%, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant ( t=4.38, P<0.001). One hundred and fourteen children underwent surgical treatment, 112 of them (98.2%) had good postoperative reexamination. Only 2 cases (1.8%) died after surgery, and 14.0% (16/114) had the possibility of secondary surgery. Conclusions:Fetal complex CHD is not an indication for cesarean section, and the delivery mode could be selected according to the obstetric situation. If the mother and child are in stable condition, the delivery is planned after 39 weeks of gestation. For children with low oxygen saturation after birth, alprostadil could be pumped to maintain the open ductus arteriosus, and timely referral to the pediatric cardiac surgery for subsequent surgical treatment, which could achieve a good prognosis.
5.Effects of Yiqi Juanbi Formula on chondrocyte pyroptosis in collagen-induced arthritic rats via NF-κB/NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling pathway
Xin-yu CUI ; Hao-lin LI ; Wei-qing LI ; Hui-qin KANG ; Wei-gang CHENG ; Pei-xin HE ; Cai-hong YANG ; Ping CHEN ; Hai-dong WANG
Chinese Traditional Patent Medicine 2025;47(9):2880-2887
AIM To investigate the effects of Yiqi Juanbi Formula on chondrocyte pyroptosis in rat models of collagen-induced arthritis(CIA).METHODS Fifty rats were subcutaneously injected at the tail base with an emulsion containing equal volumes of bovine type Ⅱ collagen and incomplete Freund's adjuvant(IFA)to establish the CIA models.These rats were then randomly assigned to the model group,the methotrexate group(0.35 mg/kg),and the low-dose,medium-dose,and high-dose Yiqi Juanbi Formula groups(9.4,18.7,37.4 g/kg),in contrast to the ten intact rats serving in the normal control group.Following four weeks of intragastric administration,the rats had their general conditions observed;their joint swelling and arthritis indices measured;their ankle joint pathology assessed by HE staining;their serum levels of IL-1β,IL-18 and TNF-ɑ detected by ELISA;their mRNA expressions of NLRP3,Caspase-1,GSDMD,IL-1β,IL-18 and TNF-ɑ in ankle cartilage quantified by RT-qPCR;their protein expressions of NF-κB,NLRP3 and Caspase-1 in ankle cartilage analyzed by Western blot;and their NLRP3 and GSDMD positive expressions in ankle cartilage examined by immunohistochemistry.RESULTS Compared to the control group,the model group showed significantly increased joint swelling and arthritis indices(P<0.01);elevated serum levels of IL-1 β,IL-18 and TNF-ɑ(P<0.01);pathological changes including cartilage surface defects,reduced cell count,altered cellular morphology,irregular cell arrangement,and significant inflammatory cell infiltration in synovial tissue;upregulated mRNA expressions of NF-κB,NLRP3,Caspase-1,GSDMD,IL-1β,IL-18 and TNF-ɑ(P<0.01)and increased protein expressions of NF-κB,NLRP3 and Caspase-1(P<0.01)in ankle cartilage;enhanced positive expressions of NLRP3 and GSDMD in ankle cartilage(P<0.01).Compared to the model group,the groups intervened with methotrexate or medium-or high-dose Yiqi Juanbi Formula exhibited reduced joint swelling and arthritis indices(P<0.01);alleviated pathological damage in ankle joints;decreased serum levels of IL-1β,IL-18 and TNF-ɑ(P<0.01);downregulated mRNA expressions of NF-κB,NLRP3,Caspase-1,GSDMD,IL-1β,IL-18 and TNF-ɑ(P<0.05,P<0.01),and reduced protein expressions of NF-κB,NLRP3 and Caspase-1(P<0.05,P<0.01)in ankle cartilage;and diminished positive expressions of NLRP3 and GSDMD in ankle cartilage(P<0.01).CONCLUSION Yiqi Juanbi Formula alleviates inflammation in CIA rats,potentially by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling pathway,thereby suppressing chondrocyte pyroptosis.
6.Construction and Application of"On-Off-On"Fluorescence Sensor for Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride Based on Near Infrared Carbon Quantum Dots
Yu LIN ; Feng TAN ; Yu-Hua SHEN ; Li-Qin ZHU ; Pei-Yao YAN ; Jin-Tao PAN ; Kai-Shun LIU
Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry 2025;53(6):934-943
In this work,near infrared carbon quantum dots(NIR-CDs)were synthesized by hydrothermal method using biomass material Clausena lansium leaves.The synthesized NIR-CDs emitted maximum fluorescence signal at 677 nm,which was independent of excitation wavelength.The characterization results showed that there were abundant groups on the surface of NIR-CDs.Pd2+could form non-fluorescent compounds with the surface groups of NIR-CDs,resulting in fluorescence quenching(Fluorescence signal was denoted as F0).Because chlorpromazine hydrochloride(CPZ)parent nucleus contained unoxidized S atom,CPZ could form stable colored complex with Pd2+under acidic conditions.In the presence of CPZ,Pd2+dissociated from the surface of NIR-CDs and bonded with CPZ,so that the fluorescence signal could be restored(Fluorescence signal was denoted as F).An"on-off-on"fluorescence sensor was thus constructed.The fluorescence signal recovery value of NIR-CDs(△F=F-F0)showed a good linear relationship with the concentration of CPZ in the range of 5.68-28.43 μg/mL,and the detection limit(3σ)was 0.078 μg/mL.The sensor was applied to determination of CPZ in pharmaceutical preparations,and the recoveries were 94%-106%.The developed fluorescence sensor was expected to be used in quality control of actual pharmaceutical preparations.
7.Colorimetric Sensor for Determination of Golgi Protein 73 Based on Hemin-Reduced Graphene Oxide-Manganese Dioxide Nanozyme
Xiao-Hong TAN ; Jia-Hao ZHOU ; Pei-Hong XU ; Hao LIN ; Gui-Yin LI
Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry 2025;53(9):1476-1485
Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of common cancer that seriously endangers human health.Designing methods for early,rapid,and accurate diagnosis of HCC has become the key point.Golgi protein 73(GP73),a novel potential biomarker for HCC,is crucial for diagnosis and treatment of HCC.In this study,a colorimetric sensor with rapidity,smplicity and high specificity was established for detection of GP73 based on peroxidase-like activity of hemin-reduced graphene oxide-manganese dioxide(H-rGO-MnO2).The H-rGO-MnO2-GP73Apt1 signal probe was synthesized by carboxyl of H-rGO-MnO2 nanozyme and amination of GP73 aptamer(GP73Apt1)though amide reaction.In the presence of GP73,the sulfhydryl-modifed GP73 aptamer(GP73Apt2),as the capture probe,and the signal probe both specifically recognized GP73,forming a sandwich structure(GP73Apt2-GP73-H-rGO-MnO2-GP73Apt1).This structure could catalyze the oxidation of H2O2 to produce hydroxyl radical(·OH),thereby oxidizing the colorless phthalenediamine(OPD)into the yellow 2,3-diaminophenazine(DPA).The quantitative detection of GP73 was achieved by measuring the characteristic absorbance of DPA at 450 nm.In the GP73 concentration range of 10-150 ng/mL,there was a good linear relationship between the DPA absorbance at 450 nm(A450 nm)and the GP73 concentration under optimal conditions.The linear equation was A450 nm=0.00321CGP73+0.8988,with the correlation coefficient(R2)of 0.9960 and the detection limit(LOD)of 5.38 ng/mL.The colorimetric sensor was applied to detection of GP73 in human serum samples,with recoveries of 88.4%?98.8%.This sensor showed high specificity,sensitivity,and stability,and had potential for clinical detection of GP73,providing a new approach for the early diagnosis of HCC.
8.Research of injury mapping relationship of lumbar spine in reclined occupants between anthropomorphic test devices and human body model.
Yu LIU ; Jing FEI ; Xin-Ming WAN ; Pei-Feng WANG ; Zhen LI ; Xiao-Ting YANG ; Lin-Wei ZHANG ; Zhong-Hao BAI
Chinese Journal of Traumatology 2025;28(2):130-137
PURPOSE:
To judge the injury mode and injury severity of the real human body through the measured values of anthropomorphic test devices (ATD) injury indices, the mapping relationship of lumbar injury between ATD and human body model (HBM) was explored.
METHODS:
Through the ATD model and HBM simulation, the mapping relationship of lumbar injury between the 2 subjects was explored. The sled environment consisted of a semi-rigid seat with an adjustable seatback angle and a 3-point seat belt system with a seatback-mounted D-ring. Three seatback recline states of 25°, 45°, and 65° were designed, and the seat pan angle was maintained at 15°. A 23 g, 47 km/h pulse was used. The validity of the finite element model of the sled was verified by the comparison of ATD simulation and test results. ATD model was the test device for human occupant restraint for autonomous vehicles (THOR-AV) dummy model and HBM was the total human model for safety (THUMS) v6.1. The posture of the 2 models was adjusted to adapt to the 3 seat states. The lumbar response of THOR-AV and the mechanical and biomechanical data on L1 - L5 vertebrae of THUMS were output, and the response relationship between THOR-AV and THUMS was descriptive statistically analyzed.
RESULTS:
Both THOR-AV and THUMS were submarined in the 65° seatback angle case. With the change of seatback angle, the lumbar spine axial compression force (Fz) of THOR-AV and THUMS changed in the similar trend. The maximum Fz ratio of THOR-AV to THUMS at 25° and 45° seatback angle cases were 1.6 and 1.7. The flexion moment (My) and the time when the maximum My occurred in the 2 subjects were very different. In particular, the form of moment experienced by the L1 - L5 vertebrae of THUMS also changed. The changing trend of My measured by THOR-AV over time can reflect the changing trend of maximum stress of L1 and L2 of THUMS.
CONCLUSION
The Fz of ATD and HBM presents a certain proportional relationship, and there is a mapping relationship between the 2 subjects on Fz. The mapping function can be further clarified by applying more pulses and adopting more seatback angles. It is difficult to map My directly because they are very different in ATD and HBM. The My of ATD and stress of HBM lumbar showed a similar change trend over time, and there may be a hidden mapping relationship.
Humans
;
Lumbar Vertebrae/injuries*
;
Finite Element Analysis
;
Biomechanical Phenomena
;
Manikins
;
Spinal Injuries/physiopathology*
9.The addition of 5-aminolevulinic acid to HBSS protects testis grafts during hypothermic transportation: a novel preservation strategy.
Meng-Hui MA ; Pei-Gen CHEN ; Jun-Xian HE ; Hai-Cheng CHEN ; Zhen-Han XU ; Lin-Yan LV ; Yan-Qing LI ; Xiao-Yan LIANG ; Gui-Hua LIU
Asian Journal of Andrology 2025;27(4):454-463
The aim of this investigation was to determine the optimal storage medium for testicular hypothermic transportation and identify the ideal concentration for the application of the protective agent 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA). Furthermore, this study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of the protective effects of 5-ALA. First, we collected and stored mouse testicular fragments in different media, including Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS; n = 5), Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium/Nutrient Mixture F-12 (DMEM/F12; n = 5), and alpha-minimum essential medium (αMEM; n = 5). Storage of testicular tissue in HBSS preserved the integrity of testicular morphology better than that in the DMEM/F12 group ( P < 0.05) and the αMEM group ( P < 0.01). Testicular fragments were subsequently placed in HBSS with various concentrations of 5-ALA (0 [control], 1 mmol l -1 , 2 mmol l -1 , and 5 mmol l -1 ) to determine the most effective concentration of 5-ALA. The 2 mmol l -1 5-ALA group ( n = 3) presented the highest positive rate of spermatogonial stem cells compared with those in the control, 1 mmol l -1 , and 5 mmol l -1 5-ALA groups. Finally, the tissue fragments were preserved in HBSS with control ( n = 3) and 2 mmol l -1 5-ALA ( n = 3) under low-temperature conditions. A comparative analysis was performed against fresh testes ( n = 3) to elucidate the underlying mechanism of 5-ALA. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) for WikiPathways revealed that the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway was downregulated in the 2 mmol l -1 5-ALA group compared with that in the control group (normalized enrichment score [NES] = -1.57, false discovery rate [FDR] = 0.229, and P = 0.019). In conclusion, these data suggest that using 2 mmol l -1 5-ALA in HBSS effectively protected the viability of spermatogonial stem cells upon hypothermic transportation.
Male
;
Animals
;
Testis/cytology*
;
Aminolevulinic Acid/pharmacology*
;
Mice
;
Organ Preservation/methods*
;
Organ Preservation Solutions/pharmacology*
;
Cryopreservation/methods*
10.Trend in testicular volume change after orchiopexy in 854 children with cryptorchidism.
Ying-Ying HE ; Zhi-Cong KE ; Shou-Lin LI ; Hui-Jie GUO ; Pei-Liang ZHANG ; Peng-Yu CHEN ; Wan-Hua XU ; Feng-Hao SUN ; Zhi-Lin YANG
Asian Journal of Andrology 2025;27(6):723-727
The aim of this study was to investigate the trend in testicular volume changes after orchiopexy in children with cryptorchidism. The clinical data of 854 children with cryptorchidism who underwent orchiopexy between January 2013 and December 2016 in Shenzhen Children's Hospital (Shenzhen, China) were retrospectively analyzed. The mean (standard deviation) age of the patients was 2.8 (2.5) years, and the duration of follow-up ranged from 1 year to 5 years. Ultrasonography was conducted preoperatively and postoperatively. The variables analyzed included age at the time of surgery, type of surgical procedure, laterality, preoperative testicular position, preoperative and postoperative testicular volumes, and the testicular volume ratio of them. The average testicular volumes preoperatively and at 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and 5 years postoperatively were 0.27 ml, 0.38 ml, 0.53 ml, 0.87 ml, and 1.00 ml, respectively ( P < 0.001). The corresponding testicular volume ratios were 0.67, 0.76, 0.80, 0.83, and 0.84 ( P < 0.001). The mean volume of the undescended testes was significantly smaller than the mean normative value ( P < 0.001, lower than the 10 th percentile). The postoperative testicular volumes in children with cryptorchidism were generally lower than those in healthy boys but were still greater than the 10 th percentile and exhibited an increasing trend. The older the child is at the time of surgery, the larger the gap in volume between the affected and normal testes. Although testicular volume tends to gradually increase after orchiopexy for cryptorchidism, it could not normalizes. Earlier surgery results in affected testicular volumes closer to those of healthy boys.
Humans
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Male
;
Cryptorchidism/diagnostic imaging*
;
Orchiopexy
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Child, Preschool
;
Testis/surgery*
;
Retrospective Studies
;
Organ Size
;
Ultrasonography
;
Infant
;
Child
;
Postoperative Period
;
Follow-Up Studies

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