1.Regulatory Pathways of Cell Apoptosis in Diabetic Kidney Disease and Intervention by Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Review
Yunjie YANG ; Mingqian JIANG ; Chen QIU ; Yaqing RUAN ; Senlin CHEN ; Wenxin HUANG ; Hangbin ZHENG ; Yi WEI ; Pengfei LI ; Xueqin LIN ; Jing WU ; Shiwei RUAN ; Jianting WANG ; Yuliang QIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(9):294-306
Diabetic kidney disease(DKD) is a chronic kidney structural and functional disorder caused by diabetes. With the global prevalence of diabetes continuing to rise, DKD has gradually become a major cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease(ESRD), posing a serious threat to patients' quality of life and long-term health outcomes. Studies have shown that apoptosis plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of DKD, with its mechanisms involving abnormal activation of multiple signaling pathways such as Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear transcription factor-κB(NF-κB)/B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2)/cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase(Caspase)-3, protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase(PERK)/eukaryotic initiation factor 2α(eIF2α)/activating transcript factor 4(ATF4)/CCAAT enhancer-binding protein homologous protein(CHOP), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt)/glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β), Janus kinase 2(JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR) and silent information regulator 1(SIRT1)/tumor suppressor protein 53(p53), thereby accelerating renal pathological damage in DKD. Extensive evidence-based medical studies have confirmed that traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), leveraging its unique therapeutic advantages of multi-target, multi-component and multi-pathway approaches, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy and favorable safety profiles in treating DKD. Recent studies have demonstrated that active components of TCM can specifically target and modulate key effectors in apoptotic signaling pathways. Meanwhile, traditional compound formulations exert synergistic effects through multiple approaches such as replenishing deficiency and activating blood circulation, detoxifying and dredging collaterals, tonifying kidney essence, and removing stasis and purging turbidity, thereby comprehensively regulating critical pathological processes including endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. This combined therapeutic approach of molecular targeting and holistic regulation provides novel strategies for delaying the progression of DKD. Based on this, this paper provides an in-depth analysis of key apoptotic signaling pathways and their regulatory mechanisms, while systematically summarizing recent research advances regarding the therapeutic effects of TCM active components, compound formulations, and proprietary Chinese medicines on DKD through modulation of these pathways, with particular emphasis on their underlying molecular mechanisms. These findings not only elucidate the modern scientific connotation and theoretical basis of TCM in treating DKD but also establish a solid theoretical and practical foundation for promoting the wider clinical application and further research of TCM in the field of DKD treatment.
2.Evaluation of CARIFS Score and Negative Antigen Conversion Rate of Qingxuan Daozhi Formula in Treatment of Influenza in Children (Heat Accumulation in Lung and Stomach Syndrome):A Multi-center Randomized Controlled Clinical Study
Jing WANG ; Liqun WU ; Tiegang LIU ; Yongning CAO ; Jing QIU ; Jing LI ; Huaqing TAN ; Ying ZHANG ; Xulei GOU ; Jia WANG ; Jing LI ; Haipeng CHEN ; Xueying QIN ; Yuanshuo TIAN ; Yang WANG ; Chen BAI ; Zhendong WANG ; Qianqian LI ; He YU ; Xueyan MA ; Fei DONG ; Lin JIANG ; Yingqi XU ; Jianping LIU ; Xiaohong GU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(13):188-196
ObjectiveThis paper aims to observe the syndrome improvement and negative antigen conversion rate of Qingxuan Daozhi formula in the treatment of influenza in children (heat accumulation in the lung and stomach syndrome). MethodsThrough a multi-center randomized controlled methodology design,confirmed influenza cases were collected from October 2022 to April 2023 in the pediatrics department of eight hospitals,such as Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine. A total of 180 children with influenza and heat accumulation in the lung and stomach syndrome conforming to the standard were recruited through the clinic. The sick children meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into groups by a block-randomized method. The children in the experimental group were treated with Qingxuan Daozhi formula for five days,and those in the control group were treated with Oseltamivir Phosphate Granules for five days. The primary efficacy indicator was the negative conversion rate of influenza antigen detection. Secondary efficacy indicators were the Canadian acute respiratory illness and flu scale (CARIFS) and the incidence of complications,severe cases, and critical cases. Follow-up observation was conducted on the day of enrollment,48 hours after medication,72 hours after medication, and (6+1) d after medication. ResultsOne hundred and eighty participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group (90 cases) or the control group (90 cases). All participants were followed up during the study. Comparison of influenza antigen detection results in the primary efficacy indicators showed that the average time of negative influenza antigen conversion in the experimental group was (5.29±1.25) d,and that in the control group was (5.40±1.68) d,without a statistically significant difference. After five days of intervention,52 cases in the experimental group and 51 cases in the control group converted to negative,without a statistically significant difference. CARIFS score results in the secondary efficacy indicators showed that during 72 hours after intervention,there were statistically significant differences between the experimental group and the control group in three dimensions, including headache,muscle soreness, and the need for extra care (P<0.05). On the (6+1) days after the intervention,the differences in both the experimental group and the control group were statistically significant in 10 dimensions, including sore throat,bad sleep,uncomfortable feeling,poor spirit and fatigue,crying more than usual,the need for extra care,symptom,function,influence on parents,and total score (P<0.05). The comparison results within the group in the dimensional scores of symptom, function, and influence on parents,as well as the CARIFS total score showed that with the delay of follow-up time,scores of both groups decreased significantly,with a statistically significant difference (P<0.01). Inter-group comparison results showed that the mean score of the experimental group was higher than that of the control group at the time of enrollment. With the progress of intervention,the score of the experimental group was significantly decreased compared with that of the control group. At the end of follow-up,the mean score of the experimental group was lower than that of the control group,with no statistically significant difference. In terms of the incidence of complications,severe cases, and critical cases, there were no complications,severe cases, and critical cases in the two groups,without a statistically significant difference. ConclusionThe symptom improvement effect and negative antigen conversion rate of Qingxuan Daozhi formula in the treatment of influenza in children (heat accumulation in the lung and stomach syndrome) are not inferior to Oseltamivir Phosphate granules, and children's acceptance is better. It can be more widely used in clinical treatment of influenza in children (heat accumulation in the lung and stomach syndrome).
3.Expert consensus on the application of artificial intelligence in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment (2026 edition)
Wenzhao ZHONG ; Haibo WANG ; Yi HU ; Hao ZHANG ; Jigang DAI ; Junqiang FAN ; Guibin QIAO ; Fan YANG ; Jian HU ; Fengwei TAN ; Xuening YANG ; Qiang PU ; Zihao CHEN ; Hongxia TIAN ; Lunxu LIU ; Hecheng LI ; Xiaolong YAN ; Zongyang YU ; Zhenbin QIU ; Yihua SUN ; Jing HU ; Yuhang SHI ; Zhifei GUO ; Peng ZHANG ; Kezhong CHEN ; Shugeng GAO ; Yilong WU
Chinese Journal of Clinical Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2026;33(06):848-856
With the continuous deepening of the concept of precision diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer, how to achieve higher efficiency and accuracy in the screening, diagnosis, and treatment pathways in clinical practice has become an important issue that urgently needs to be overcome. The current clinical difficulty lies in the fact that despite continuous advancements in imaging and molecular diagnostic technologies, there are still limitations in manual efficiency and subjective experience when it comes to massive data analysis and multi-scale feature extraction. Artificial intelligence (AI), especially algorithm systems based on deep learning, is an innovative technology capable of deeply empowering medical big data. This method utilizes algorithms such as convolutional neural networks, combined with radiomics, pathomics, and multi-modal data fusion analysis, demonstrating immense potential in early precise detection and benign-malignant differentiation of pulmonary nodules, digital pathological subtype recognition and non-invasive prediction of driver genes, precise 3D surgical planning and automatic delineation of radiotherapy target volumes, as well as dynamic risk warning during follow-up. This innovative technology provides a brand-new solution for realizing intelligent and individualized lung cancer diagnosis and treatment models. This consensus, based on the latest evidence from evidence-based medicine and combined with the development trends in the AI field and real-world clinical needs, was ultimately formed by gathering the consensus opinions of multidisciplinary experts in radiology, pathology, thoracic surgery, and other fields. The main content covers the application specifications of AI in the three core scenarios of lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, the technical standards for data collection and algorithm validation, as well as the ethical and regulatory challenges faced at the current stage. It aims to clarify the applicable boundaries of AI as a clinical auxiliary decision support tool, providing scientific guidance and standardized exploration directions for peers currently engaged in or planning to carry out AI-assisted clinical diagnosis, treatment, and translation of lung cancer.
4.Application value of fibrosis-4 index and liver transient elastography in liver fibrosis risk stratification for metabolic associated fatty liver disease in community health institutions
Haiqing GUO ; Yaning LI ; Xiaohui LIU ; Jing ZHANG ; Yumin WANG ; Li CAO ; Lixia QIU
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2026;42(6):1294-1300
ObjectiveTo perform metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) screening among individuals attending community health institutions, to identify the patients at a low, moderate or high risk of advanced liver fibrosis based on fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) measured by liver transient elastography, and to implement stratified management. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 630 individuals attending Beijing Baizhifang Community Health Service Center from January to July 2024, and they were divided into MAFLD group and non-MAFLD group. According to body mass index (BMI), the MAFLD group was further divided into lean MAFLD group (BMI<23 kg/m2) and non-lean MAFLD group (BMI≥23 kg/m2). The above groups were compared in terms of demographic features, laboratory markers, hepatic steatosis, and LSM. Fibrosis risk stratification was performed for MAFLD patients based on FIB-4 and LSM, and a closed-loop management system involving referral to tertiary hospitals and follow-up at community health institutions was implemented. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison of non-normally distributed continuous data between two groups, and the chi-square test or the Fisher’s exact test was used for comparison of categorical data between groups. ResultsThere were 445 individuals (70.6%) in the MAFLD group and 185 individuals (29.4%) in the non-MAFLD group. Compared with the non-MAFLD group, the MAFLD group had a significantly lower proportion of male individuals (χ2=4.299, P<0.05), a significant reduction in the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Z=3.484, P<0.05), and significant increases in body weight (Z=-7.366, P<0.05), BMI (Z=-9.740, P<0.05), waist circumference (Z=-6.397, P<0.05), hip circumference (Z=-6.935, P<0.05), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (Z=-2.765, P<0.05), fasting blood glucose (Z=-3.646, P<0.05), triglyceride (TG) (Z=-6.569, P<0.05), total cholesterol (Z=-2.033, P<0.05), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Z=-2.935, P<0.05), controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) (Z=-19.784, P<0.05), and LSM (Z=-5.703, P<0.05). Within the MAFLD group, there were 124 individuals (27.9%) in the lean MAFLD group and 321 individuals (72.1%) in the non-lean MAFLD group. Compared with the non-lean MAFLD group, the lean MAFLD group had significantly lower body weight (Z=-12.414, P<0.05), BMI (Z=-16.363, P<0.05), waist circumference (Z=-7.733, P<0.05), hip circumference (Z=-8.595, P<0.05), ALT (Z=-2.835, P<0.05), aspartate aminotransferase (Z=-1.972, P<0.05), TG (Z=-2.407, P<0.05), CAP (Z=-4.429, P<0.05), degree of steatosis (χ2=16.588, P<0.05), and LSM (Z=-3.908, P<0.05). Based on the results of FIB-4 and LSM, 76 patients at a moderate or high risk of liver fibrosis should be referred to a higher-level hospital for further management. ConclusionThe detection rate of MAFLD reaches 70.6% among the individuals attending community health institutions, among whom 76 (17.1%) should be referred to a higher-level hospital. Establishing a liver fibrosis risk stratification and management system based on FIB-4 and LSM among MAFLD individuals in communities provides a practical pathway for chronic disease management and referral system construction in community health institutions.
5.Clinical Efficacy of Yishen Jiangtang Decoction Combined with Conventional Western Medicine Treatment for Diabetic Kidney Disease with Pattern of Qi-Yin Deficiency Combined with Dampness-heat and Blood Stasis
Yunjie YANG ; Yasheng DENG ; Kaiying HE ; Qi ZHANG ; Yongxin YU ; Yaqing RUAN ; Zhuang HAN ; Qiwei CHEN ; Yi WEI ; Qiu CHEN ; Jing WU ; Mingqian JIANG ; Shiwei RUAN ; Jianting WANG ; Yuliang QIU ; Lixiang ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(21):157-167
ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy and safety of Yishen Jiangtang decoction combined with conventional Western medicine treatment in managing stage G3A3 diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in the patients with the pattern of Qi-Yin deficiency combined with dampness-heat and blood stasis, and to explore its mechanism of inhibiting the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-apoptosis axis and delaying renal fibrosis (RF). MethodsA single-center, randomized, parallel-controlled clinical trial was conducted. A total of 78 patients diagnosed with stage G3A3 DKD and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pattern of Qi-Yin deficiency combined with dampness-heat and blood stasis and treated in the Department of Nephrology and the Department of Endocrinology of the People's Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from March 2025 to February 2026 were enrolled. They were randomly assigned at a 1∶1 ratio into a control group (conventional Western medicine treatment) and an experimental group (Yishen Jiangtang decoction combined with conventional Western medicine treatment), with 39 patients in each group. The treatment lasted for 12 weeks. Basic demographic data and medical history were collected before and after treatment. The two groups before and after treatment were compared in terms of the following parameters: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to measure serum glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), serum cysteinyl aspartate-specific protease-3 (Caspase-3), and serum and urinary transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels before and after treatment. TCM symptom scores, TCM syndrome efficacy, and overall clinical efficacy were evaluated before and after treatment. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to explore the correlations of serum levels of GRP78 and Caspase-3, as well as serum and urinary levels of TGF-β1, with renal function, proteinuria, and glucose and lipid metabolism indicators in patients with DKD. In addition, safety indicators were also monitored. ResultsA total of 75 patients completed the study (38 in the control group and 37 in the experimental group). ① Baseline data: The two groups were comparable in terms of sex and age, with no statistically significant difference. ② Efficacy outcomes: Compared with baseline levels, both groups showed reductions in BUN, SCr, UACR, FBG, TG, TC, LDL-C, and TCM symptom scores (P<0.01) and increases in eGFR level (P<0.01). Moreover, the experimental group outperformed the control group in altering the indicators above (P<0.05). Regarding TCM syndrome efficacy, the total response rate in the experimental group was 83.78%, which was higher than that (57.89%) in the control group (P<0.05). Regarding overall clinical efficacy, the total response rate in the experimental group was 78.38%, which was higher than that (50.00%) in the control group (P<0.05). ③ Mechanism outcomes: Compared with baseline levels, both groups showed declined serum levels of GRP78, Caspase-3, and TGF-β1 and urinary level of TGF-β1 after treatment (P<0.01). Moreover, the experimental group showed greater declines than the control group (P<0.05). The serum levels of GRP78, Caspase-3,and TGF-β1 and the urinary level of TGF-β1 in DKD patients showed positive correlations with BUN, SCr, UACR, and FBG and negative correlations with eGFR (P<0.05). ④ Safety outcomes: Neither group showed drug-related adverse reactions, and laboratory safety parameters remained within normal ranges. ConclusionYishen Jiangtang decoction combined with conventional Western medicine treatment may safely and effectively alleviate clinical symptoms, correct glucose and lipid metabolism disorders, and protect the renal function in patients with stage G3A3 DKD and the pattern of Qi-Yin deficiency combined with dampness-heat and blood stasis. The mechanism may be associated with inhibition of the ERS-apoptosis axis and delay of the RF process.
6.Clinical Efficacy of Yishen Jiangtang Decoction Combined with Conventional Western Medicine Treatment for Diabetic Kidney Disease with Pattern of Qi-Yin Deficiency Combined with Dampness-heat and Blood Stasis
Yunjie YANG ; Yasheng DENG ; Kaiying HE ; Qi ZHANG ; Yongxin YU ; Yaqing RUAN ; Zhuang HAN ; Qiwei CHEN ; Yi WEI ; Qiu CHEN ; Jing WU ; Mingqian JIANG ; Shiwei RUAN ; Jianting WANG ; Yuliang QIU ; Lixiang ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(21):157-167
ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy and safety of Yishen Jiangtang decoction combined with conventional Western medicine treatment in managing stage G3A3 diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in the patients with the pattern of Qi-Yin deficiency combined with dampness-heat and blood stasis, and to explore its mechanism of inhibiting the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-apoptosis axis and delaying renal fibrosis (RF). MethodsA single-center, randomized, parallel-controlled clinical trial was conducted. A total of 78 patients diagnosed with stage G3A3 DKD and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pattern of Qi-Yin deficiency combined with dampness-heat and blood stasis and treated in the Department of Nephrology and the Department of Endocrinology of the People's Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from March 2025 to February 2026 were enrolled. They were randomly assigned at a 1∶1 ratio into a control group (conventional Western medicine treatment) and an experimental group (Yishen Jiangtang decoction combined with conventional Western medicine treatment), with 39 patients in each group. The treatment lasted for 12 weeks. Basic demographic data and medical history were collected before and after treatment. The two groups before and after treatment were compared in terms of the following parameters: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to measure serum glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), serum cysteinyl aspartate-specific protease-3 (Caspase-3), and serum and urinary transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels before and after treatment. TCM symptom scores, TCM syndrome efficacy, and overall clinical efficacy were evaluated before and after treatment. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to explore the correlations of serum levels of GRP78 and Caspase-3, as well as serum and urinary levels of TGF-β1, with renal function, proteinuria, and glucose and lipid metabolism indicators in patients with DKD. In addition, safety indicators were also monitored. ResultsA total of 75 patients completed the study (38 in the control group and 37 in the experimental group). ① Baseline data: The two groups were comparable in terms of sex and age, with no statistically significant difference. ② Efficacy outcomes: Compared with baseline levels, both groups showed reductions in BUN, SCr, UACR, FBG, TG, TC, LDL-C, and TCM symptom scores (P<0.01) and increases in eGFR level (P<0.01). Moreover, the experimental group outperformed the control group in altering the indicators above (P<0.05). Regarding TCM syndrome efficacy, the total response rate in the experimental group was 83.78%, which was higher than that (57.89%) in the control group (P<0.05). Regarding overall clinical efficacy, the total response rate in the experimental group was 78.38%, which was higher than that (50.00%) in the control group (P<0.05). ③ Mechanism outcomes: Compared with baseline levels, both groups showed declined serum levels of GRP78, Caspase-3, and TGF-β1 and urinary level of TGF-β1 after treatment (P<0.01). Moreover, the experimental group showed greater declines than the control group (P<0.05). The serum levels of GRP78, Caspase-3,and TGF-β1 and the urinary level of TGF-β1 in DKD patients showed positive correlations with BUN, SCr, UACR, and FBG and negative correlations with eGFR (P<0.05). ④ Safety outcomes: Neither group showed drug-related adverse reactions, and laboratory safety parameters remained within normal ranges. ConclusionYishen Jiangtang decoction combined with conventional Western medicine treatment may safely and effectively alleviate clinical symptoms, correct glucose and lipid metabolism disorders, and protect the renal function in patients with stage G3A3 DKD and the pattern of Qi-Yin deficiency combined with dampness-heat and blood stasis. The mechanism may be associated with inhibition of the ERS-apoptosis axis and delay of the RF process.
7.Curcumin improving behavioral deficits in Parkinson's disease mice via modulation of gut microbiota
Wen-Hui LI ; Zhi-Hong ZHAO ; Li-Juan WANG ; Jin-Jing HE ; Yu-Ting LIU ; Qiu-Qin HAN
Acta Anatomica Sinica 2025;56(2):143-149
Objective To explore the mechanism by which curcumin improves behavioral deficits in mice with Parkinson's disease(PD)through fecal microbiota transplantation.Methods A subacute model of PD in mice was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine(MPTP).Fecal microbiota from both the model group and the curcumin(Cur)-treated group(80 m g/kg)were collected and analyzed.The experiment involving fecal microbiota transplantation was structured into four distinct groups,fecal microbiota solvent transplantation group(FMTcon),model fecal microbiota transplantation group(FMTmodel),MPTP-induced model group(model),and model group subjected to fecal microbiota transplantation following curcumin treatment(model+FMTCur).The motor skills of the mice were assessed by using rod rotation,pole climbing experiment,and open field tests.Immunofluorescence techniques were employed to observe the expression tyrosine hydroxylase(TH)-positive neurons in the substantia nigra of the brain.Additionally,the gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)in the midbrain of mice was analyzed,alongside the protein expression of nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)and nucleotide binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3).Results The subacute PD animal model in mice was successfully established,and fecal microbiota were separated and gathered.The model group exhibited significant motor impairment,as evidenced by a shortened rod rotation time(P<0.05),prolonged pole climbing time(P<0.05),significantly reduced total movement distance within the open field(P<0.001),and decreased time spent in the central zone(P<0.01).The relative expression level of TH+neurons in the substantia nigra was significantly reduced(P<0.01).Moreover,mRNA expression of TNF-α in the midbrain increased significantly(P<0.01),along with significant elevations in protein expression of NF-κB(P<0.001),phosphorylated NF-κB(p-NF-κB)(P<0.01),NLRP3(P<0.001),and Caspase-1(P<0.01).The transplanted model microbial group(FMTmodel)also exhibited motor impairment,manifested by a trend of shortened rod rotation time,prolonged pole climbing time,a significant decrease in total movement distance within the open field(P<0.01),and a trend of shortened time spent in the central zone.The relative expression level of TH+neurons in the substantia nigra decreased significantly(P<0.05).Additionally,mRNA expression of TNF-α in the midbrain increased significantly(P<0.01),along with notable elevations in the protein expression of NF-κB(P<0.05),and Caspase-1(P<0.01).Treatment with curcumin in the fecal microbiota transplantation group of mice(model+FMTCur)showed improvements in motor abilities,evidenced by shortened pole climbing time(P<0.05),significantly prolonged rod rotation time(P<0.01),and extended time spent in the central zone(P<0.05).The relative expression level of TH+dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra increased significantly(P<0.05).Moreover,mRNA expression of TNF-α in the midbrain decreased significantly(P<0.01),along with notable reductions in the protein expression of NF-κB(P<0.001),p-NF-κB(P<0.01),NLRP3(P<0.05),and Caspase-1(P<0.01).Conclusion Fecal microbiota transplantation in PD model mice can induce behavioral deficits,damage TH+neurons in the substantia nigra,and trigger neuroinflammation in the brain.Subsequent curcumin treatment can ameliorate these deficits,reverse damage to TH+neurons,reduce neuroinflammatory factors,and decrease the expression of NF-κB and NLRP3 pathways.This preliminary evidence suggests that curcumin may improve Parkinsonian behavioral deficits in mice by modulating the gut microbiota.
8.Neuroprotection effects and mechanism of sesquiterpene ACT001 on the rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease model mice
Jin-Jing HE ; Ting ZENG ; Qiu-Qin HAN ; Jin-Cheng WANG ; An-Yang SUN ; Xiu-Hong LU
Acta Anatomica Sinica 2025;56(3):260-269
Objective To explore the neuroprotective effects and mechanisms of the sesquiterpene lactone compound ACT001 on rotenone(ROT)-induced Parkinson's disease(PD)model mouse.Methods SPF C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 6 groups,including control group,solvent control group,ROT model group,ACT001 5 mg/kg group(ROT+ACT001-5),ACT001 20 mg/kg group(ROT+ACT001-20),and levodopa(L-dopa)positive control group(ROT+L-dopa),with 9 mice in each group.The control group received an equivalent amount of intraperitoneal injection of saline,the solvent control group received an equivalent amount of rotenone solvent without rotenone,the remaining groups of mice were used to establish a PD mouse model by intraperitoneal injection of rotenone.Mice in different ACT001 dosage groups received intraperitoneal injections of high and low doses of ACT001,while the positive control group received levodopa intraperitoneally for 15 consecutive days.Behavioral changes in mice were assessed using open field,rotarod,pole-climbing,and balance beam tests.Immunofluorescence(IF)assay to detect the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase(TH)neurons,content of TH-positive fibers in the striatum and to detect the activation status of nigrostriatal microglia in the mouse midbrain;Real-time PCR was employed to measure the levels of interleukin(IL)-6,IL-1β,and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)in the substantia nigra of the mouse brain.Western blotting was used to measure the protein levels of TH,nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB)p65,NF-κB inhibitor α(IκBα),and phosphorylated IκBα(p-IκBα)in the substantia nigra of the mouse brain.Results Compared to the control group and the solvent control group,the rotenone-induced PD model group exhibited motor impairments in behavioral tests,a decrease in the number of TH positive neurons in the substantia nigra(P<0.0001),decreased levels of TH-positive fibers in the striatum,activation of midbrain substantia microglia,and elevated levels of IL-6,IL-1β,TNF-α,p-IκBα,and NF-κB p65 expression.ACT001 significantly improved the behavioral impairments and substantia nigra damage in PD mice,increased the number of TH-positive neurons in the substantia nigra,increased levels of TH-positive fibers in the striatum,inhibition of microglial cell activation in the midbrain substantia nigra,and elevated the protein expression levels of IκBα while reducing the levels of IL-6,IL-1β,TNF-α,p-IκBα,and NF-κB p65 in the substantia nigra(P<0.05).At a dose of 5 mg/kg,ACT001 significantly improved behavioral impairments in rotenone-induced PD mice,reduced the loss of dopaminergic neurons,and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway and the suppression of inflammation.In summary,the intervention of ACT001 in the rotenone-induced PD mouse model inhibited the inflammatory response in the midbrain,increased the number of TH-positive neurons,and augmented the population of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra,exerting a protective effect on neurons.Conclusion ACT001 significantly improves behavioral deficits in ROT-induced PD mice,ameliorates of dopaminergic neuron loss from the midbrain substantia nigra and striatum,inhibits the activation of nigrostriatal microglia in the midbrain,and suppresses inflammatory responses by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway.
9.Intervention effect of"5E"rehabilitation nursing model for patients with primary aldosteronism
Qiu WANG ; Ying SHENG ; Jing SUN ; Shanling ZHANG ; Fusong LIU ; Rong LI
Journal of Clinical Medicine in Practice 2025;29(6):128-132,138
Objective To explore the intervention effect of the"5E"rehabilitation nursing model(Education,Encouragement,Evaluation,Exercise,and Employment)for patients with primary aldo-steronism(PA).Methods A total of 120 patients diagnosed as PA in the Cardiology Department of the Third People's Hospital of Qingdao from January 2022 to June 2024 were randomly divided into control group(n=60)and observation group(n=60).The control group received routine nursing in-tervention,while the observation group received the"5E"rehabilitation nursing intervention.Blood test indicators,clinical manifestations(blood pressure,fatigue level),score of quality of life,and nursing satisfaction rate were compared between the two groups.Results After intervention,blood so-dium,plasma aldosterone,blood creatinine,urea nitrogen,uric acid,systolic blood pressure,dias-tolic blood pressure,and scores of fatigue degree in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group,while blood potassium level and score of quality of life were significantly higher than those in the control group(P<0.05).The nursing satisfaction rate in the observation group was 96.67%,which was significantly higher than 80.00%in the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion Implementation of the"5E"rehabilitation nursing intervention during hospitalization for PA patients can improve their blood indicators and clinical symptoms,alleviate the severity of the dis-ease,and enhance their qualities of life.
10.Investigation and risk factor analysis of blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment among Han and Kazakh residents in Tacheng City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Xiao LI ; Ye HE ; Mengran XIAO ; Guoqing LI ; Jing XU ; Jingjing WANG ; Huijuan QIU ; Linhong WANG ; Long SU
Chinese Journal of Primary Medicine and Pharmacy 2025;32(11):1606-1612
Objective:To analyze the prevalence and risk factors of blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment among Han and Kazakh residents aged 50 years and older in Tacheng City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.Methods:This study is a cross-sectional survey conducted using cluster random sampling from October 2015 to June 2018 in Emin County, Tacheng City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The study included individuals aged 50 years and older to survey blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment. Ophthalmological examinations combined with questionnaires were conducted to gather basic information. The data collected from the questionnaires included general demographic information and health conditions. The results of the eye examinations were used to diagnose a total of 12 risk factors including cataracts, glaucoma, pterygium, suspected glaucoma, glaucoma, and refractive errors. These risk factors were analyzed in relation to blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment. Univariate analysis was conducted first, followed by logistic regression to identify the significant factors.Results:A total of 2 114 patients were included in the final analysis, among which the prevalence of moderate to severe visual impairment was 18.54% (392/2 114), and the prevalence of blindness was 2.74% (58/2 114). Univariate analysis showed that blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment were associated with age ( χ2 = 32.97, P < 0.05), hypertension ( χ2 = 3.48, P < 0.05), age-related cataract ( χ2 = 17.43, P < 0.05), glaucoma ( χ2 = 3.90, P < 0.05), macular degeneration ( χ2 = 16.04, P < 0.05), diabetes ( χ2 = 3.09, P < 0.05), pterygium ( χ2 = 2.57, P < 0.05), and fundus arteriosclerosis ( χ2 = 2.31, P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that moderate to severe visual impairment was correlated with age (50 to < 60 years: OR = 2.91, 95% CI: 0.44-13.45; 60 to < 70 years: OR = 3.52, 95% CI: 0.73-8.77; 70 to < 80 years: OR = 4.31, 95% CI: 0.85-8.96), ethnicity ( OR = 4.45, 95% CI: 0.56-5.95), sex ( OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.34-0.64), age-related cataract ( OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.05-2.65), glaucoma ( OR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.67-5.30), and coronary heart disease ( OR = 2.56, P < 0.05). Blindness was correlated with age (70-79 years: OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.12-2.11), sex ( OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.34-0.64), glaucoma ( OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 0.42-6.49), diabetes ( OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.35-3.09), and coronary heart disease ( OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.07-3.43). Among these, age (70-79 years), glaucoma, diabetes, and coronary heart disease were identified as risk factors for blindness, while sex was observed as a protective factor against blindness in this region. Based on univariate and multivariate analyses as well as clinical practice, it was concluded that age (50 to < 60 years: OR = 4.42, 95% CI: 1.31-14.92; 60 to < 70 years: OR = 4.49, 95% CI: 1.70-11.84; 70 to < 80 years: OR = 3.19, 95% CI: 1.29-7.87), age-related cataract ( OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.05-2.65), and glaucoma ( OR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.67-5.30) were identified as significant risk factors for moderate to severe visual impairment. Glaucoma ( OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 0.42-6.49) and diabetes ( OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.35-3.09) were identified as the main risk factors for blindness in this region (both P < 0.05). Conclusions:In Tacheng City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the prevalence rates of moderate to severe visual impairment and blindness among Han and Kazakh residents are relatively high. Age-related cataracts and glaucoma are the primary causes, while age and diabetes are the main risk factors.

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