1.Effect of Oral Sodium Butyrate on Skeletal Muscle Atrophy via The Gut-muscle Axis in Antibiotic-pretreated CT26 Tumor-bearing Mice and Its Mechanism
Shu-Ling ZHANG ; Jun-Wei WANG ; Shi-Liang HU ; Tu-Tu WANG ; Shun-Chang LI ; Jia FAN ; Jun-Zhi SUN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):724-739
ObjectiveTo explore the effect of oral sodium butyrate on skeletal muscle atrophy in CT26 tumor mice through the gut microbiota-skeletal muscle axis and its potential mechanism. MethodsSixty SPF BALB/c male mice aged 8 weeks were randomly divided into a normal control group (NC, n=18) and a ABX-depleted group (ABX, n=42). The ABX mice were pretreated with a quadruple antibiotic cocktail via oral gavage (0.2 ml per administration, once daily, 6 d per week, for 2 weeks), whereas NC received an equal volume of sterile water. The quadruple antibiotic cocktail consisted of metronidazole (1 g/L), vancomycin (0.5 g/L), ampicillin (1 g/L), and gentamicin (1 g/L). Following successful pretreatment, six mice from each group were randomly selected for gut microbiota sequencing analysis and designated as the Abx group and the NC0 group, respectively. Theremaining mice in ABX were subcutaneously inoculated in the dorsum with 0.2 ml of CT26 cell suspension (at a cell density of 1×107/ml). Then these mice were randomly allocated into three subgroups: a control tumor bearing model group (0_NaB, n=12), a tumor-bearing model group receiving low-dose oral sodium butyrate (L_NaB, n=12), a tumor-bearing model group receiving high-dose oral sodium butyrate (H_NaB, n=12). And mice in NC were inoculated at the same site with 0.2 ml of normal saline. The administration dose for L_NaB was 0.3 g/(kg·d), that for H_NaB was 0.5 g/(kg·d), while NC and 0_NaB were given the same volume of normal saline (0.2ml per time, once daily, 6 d per week, for 4 weeks). The general condition of mice was monitored, and forelimb grip strength gastrocnemius muscle mass and its muscle fiber cross-sectional area were measured for each group. The structural changes in gut microbiota were assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing of cecal contents. Pathological alterations in the intestinal wall were examined via HE staining. Serum and gastrocnemius muscle levels of TNF‑α, IL-6, IL-1β, and LPS were quantified using ELISA. The protein expression of ZO-1 and occludin in the small intestine, as well as proteins associated with the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in the gastrocnemius muscle, were detected by Western blot analysis. Results(1) The alpha-diversity in Abx was significantly lower than that in NC0 (P<0.01), a significant decrease of the mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius (P<0.01), with the majority of gut microbiota being effectively depleted. (2) Compared with NC, the subcutaneous tumors of mice in 0_NaB were prominent, a significant increase of the mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius, accompanied by a significant decrease in body weight at the end of the 3th and 4th week (P<0.05), and a significant weakening of the forelimb grasping strength at the 5th and 6th week (P<0.01). Compared with 0_NaB, the tumor mass of mice in L_NaB and H_NaB showed a significant decreasing trend, and the grip strength of the forelimbs significantly increased at the 5th and 6th week (P<0.05, P<0.01). (3) Compared with 0_NaB, the Shannon and Observed species indices in α diversity of L_NaB and H_NaB were significantly increased (P<0.05). At the genus level, compared with 0_NaB, L_NaB exhibited a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Parasutterella (P< 0.01), while H_NaB showed significant reductions in the relative abundances of both Escherichia-Shigella and Parasutterella (P < 0.01). (4) Compared with 0_NaB, the small intestinal tissue structure in L_NaB and H_NaB was more intact, the infiltration of inflammatory cells was significantly reduced, and the capillaries were slightly dilated. The expression levels of ZO-1 and occludin proteins in L_NaB were significantly increased (P<0.01). (5) The LPS concentration in the gastrocnemius muscle and the protein expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-IκBα, and p-NF‑κB p65 in L_NaB and H_NaB were significantly lower than those in 0_NaB (P<0.05). The serum TNF‑α concentration in H_NaB and TNF-α concentration in the gastrocnemius muscle of the L_NaB and H_NaB were significantly lower than those in 0_NaB (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01). ConclusionOral administration of NaB can improve gut microbiota α diversity, adjusting its composition, improving intestinal mucosal barrier function, reducing the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory response, and delaying skeletal muscle atrophy. The underlying mechanism may involve down regulation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling in skeletal muscle.
2.Elevated SLC3A2 Expression Promotes the Progression of Gliomas and Enhances Ferroptosis Resistance through the AKT/NRF2/GPX4 Axis
Yuqian ZHENG ; Shaolong ZHOU ; Yiran TAO ; Zimin SHI ; Xiang LI ; Xudong FU ; Jian MA ; Weihua HU ; Wulong LIANG ; Xinjun WANG
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(1):71-94
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to determine the impact of solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2) on the malignant phenotype of gliomas and its role in regulating ferroptosis sensitivity.
Materials and Methods:
The malignant phenotype of glioma was assessed by cell proliferation assay, colony formation assay, EdU assay, wound healing, and Transwell experiments. We further validated the impact of reduced SLC3A2 expression on the sensitivity to ferroptosis in glioma cells through Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, flow cytometry, western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy. Western blot was used to explore how SLC3A2 affects glioma sensitivity to ferroptosis through the AKT/NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) axis. By establishing a subcutaneous xenograft tumor model in BALB/c-nude mice, we investigated the growth of tumors following the knockout of SLC3A2 in glioma cells.
Results:
Downregulation of SLC3A2 suppressed the malignant phenotype of glioma by blocking the cell cycle and epithelial-mesenchymal transition processes. On the other hand, loss of SLC3A2 not only downregulated SLC7A11 but also prevented the activation of the AKT/NRF2/GPX4 axis. These lead to increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxides, ultimately enhancing the susceptibility of glioma to ferroptosis.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that SLC3A2 is an oncogene in gliomas, promoting their occurrence and development. It plays a critical role in ferroptosis resistance through the AKT/NRF2/GPX4 axis.
3.Molecular mechanisms and prospects for disease treatment of ciliogenesis and autophagy
Hao-liang HU ; Jin WANG ; Jia-yan LIU ; Shi-fang HUANG ; Yu-ting LI ; Zhe CHEN ; Lin-xi CHEN
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(4):631-637
Cilia,as cellular sensory organelles,actively partici-pate in and regulate cellular processes such as autophagy and metabolic breakdown during their generation and transportation.Autophagy,on the other hand,is a cell self-protection mecha-nism that maintains cellular homeostasis by clearing aggregates and damaged organelles.Combining recent research findings,this review comprehensively elucidates the bidirectional crosstalk between primary cilia and autophagy.Specifically,it highlights the crucial role of cilia-dependent signaling pathways in activa-ting cellular autophagy and how autophagy regulates cilia genera-tion and length by degrading specific ciliary proteins.Moreover,the dysregulation of primary cilia and autophagy is closely asso-ciated with the clinical manifestations and pathogenesis of vari-ous ciliopathy-related diseases such as polycystic kidney disease and tuberous sclerosis.In terms of pharmacotherapy,this review provides a comprehensive and in-depth overview of small mole-cule inhibitors targeting ciliogenesis,including cytoskeletal drugs and Hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitors.Despite the current limitations in clinical use,these drugs lay the groundw-ork for developing highly specific targeted small molecule inhibi-tors of ciliogenesis and for the treatment of ciliopathies and canc-ers.By systematically discussing ciliogenesis,autophagy,disea-ses and drugs,this review offers new insights for further elucida-ting the crosstalk between ciliogenesis and autophagy,exploring their pathological mechanisms in disease development,and de-veloping therapeutic strategies in the future.
4.Analysis of macular retinal thickness characteristics in diabetic kidney disease patients with different blood pressure levels
Liang MA ; Liying HU ; Yu SHI ; Yongan ZHAO ; Yasi SUN ; Guangdong SUN
Tianjin Medical Journal 2025;53(9):923-926
Objective To compare the macular retinal thickness characteristics of diabetic kidney disease(DKD)patients with different blood pressure levels and explore the relationship between blood pressure and macular retinal damage in DKD patients.Methods A total of 435 DKD patients were selected and divided into four groups based on medical history and blood pressure:the non-hypertensive group(NH group,n=100),the well-controlled blood pressure group(G0 group,n=176),the grade 1 hypertension group(G1 group,n=118)and the grade 2 hypertension group(G2 group,n=41).General information,routine laboratory test results as well as the average thickness of the macular retinal nerve fiber layer(RNFL),ganglion cell layer(GCL),ganglion cell complex(GCC),choroidal layer(CL)and central macular retinal thickness(CMT)were compared between the four groups.The correlation between macular retinal thickness in both eyes and clinical data was analyzed.Results Compared with the G1 group and the G2 group,the G0 group had a longer duration of hypertension.Compared to the NH group,the G2 group had higher fasting plasma glucose(FPG).Compared to the G0 group,the G1 group and the G2 group had higher FPG,and the G2 group had higher glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c)and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate(eGFR).Compared to the NH group,the G0 group had decreased thickness in the GCL and GCC(P<0.05).The macular retinal thickness of the GCL and GCC in both eyes was negatively correlated with diastolic blood pressure(r=-0.158 and-0.195,respectively,P<0.05).Conclusion Macular retinal thickness is helpful in assessing the long-term effects of hypertension on optic nerve and microvascular damage in DKD patients.
5.Analysis of macular retinal thickness characteristics in diabetic kidney disease patients with different blood pressure levels
Liang MA ; Liying HU ; Yu SHI ; Yongan ZHAO ; Yasi SUN ; Guangdong SUN
Tianjin Medical Journal 2025;53(9):923-926
Objective To compare the macular retinal thickness characteristics of diabetic kidney disease(DKD)patients with different blood pressure levels and explore the relationship between blood pressure and macular retinal damage in DKD patients.Methods A total of 435 DKD patients were selected and divided into four groups based on medical history and blood pressure:the non-hypertensive group(NH group,n=100),the well-controlled blood pressure group(G0 group,n=176),the grade 1 hypertension group(G1 group,n=118)and the grade 2 hypertension group(G2 group,n=41).General information,routine laboratory test results as well as the average thickness of the macular retinal nerve fiber layer(RNFL),ganglion cell layer(GCL),ganglion cell complex(GCC),choroidal layer(CL)and central macular retinal thickness(CMT)were compared between the four groups.The correlation between macular retinal thickness in both eyes and clinical data was analyzed.Results Compared with the G1 group and the G2 group,the G0 group had a longer duration of hypertension.Compared to the NH group,the G2 group had higher fasting plasma glucose(FPG).Compared to the G0 group,the G1 group and the G2 group had higher FPG,and the G2 group had higher glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c)and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate(eGFR).Compared to the NH group,the G0 group had decreased thickness in the GCL and GCC(P<0.05).The macular retinal thickness of the GCL and GCC in both eyes was negatively correlated with diastolic blood pressure(r=-0.158 and-0.195,respectively,P<0.05).Conclusion Macular retinal thickness is helpful in assessing the long-term effects of hypertension on optic nerve and microvascular damage in DKD patients.
6.The Exploration of Characteristic Pricing Methods for Traditional Chinese Patent Medicines Based on Information Entropy Theory
Yijiu YANG ; Haili ZHANG ; Bin LIU ; Ning LIANG ; Huizhen LI ; Tian SONG ; Wenjie CAO ; Ziteng HU ; Yanping WANG ; Sheng HAN ; Nannan SHI
Chinese Health Economics 2025;44(2):13-17
Objective:To explore the method for selecting characteristic prices of Chinese patent medicines based on informa-tion entropy theory.It involves analyzing the connotative differences among various price indicators and utilizing information entropy metrics to validate the scientific rigor of characteristic price selection so as to optimize the pricing model for Chinese patent medi-cines and improve the accuracy of price evaluation.Methods:A correlation analysis and information entropy calculation are con-ducted on the median price of the smallest preparation unit,average daily cost,and average course cost of TCM.It compares the information diversity and uncertainty of different pricing indicators.Results:The average daily cost exhibits the highest information diversity and uncertainty among all the pricing indicators examined.Conclusion:It is recommended that the average daily cost be used as the dependent variable for characteristic prices in TCM pricing research.This choice plays an important role in optimizing TCM pricing models and enhancing the accuracy of price evaluation.
7.Research on the Construction of a Characteristic Price Variable Indicator System for Traditional Chinese Patent Medicines
Yijiu YANG ; Haili ZHANG ; Bin LIU ; Ning LIANG ; Huizhen LI ; Tian SONG ; Wenjie CAO ; Ziteng HU ; Houfang MA ; Yanping WANG ; Sheng HAN ; Nannan SHI
Chinese Health Economics 2025;44(2):18-23
Objective:To establish a scientific,systematic,and objective indicator system for the characteristic price variables of Traditional Chinese Patent Medicines(TCPM),providing a reference framework for the pricing mechanism of TCPM.Methods:The brainstorming method was initially used to screen related variable indicators.The Nominal Group Technique(NGT)and Delphi methods were applied to gather expert opinions,and SPSS 28.0 was employed for data statistical analysis.It led to the development of a TCPM characteristic price variable indicator system consisting of 6 dimensions,14 characteristic variables and 26 measurement indicators.Results:The authority coefficient of the experts exceeded 0.7,indicating the representativeness of the results.Expert opinions were generally concentrated.Based on the collected opinions and statistical analysis,the scope of selected TCPM characteristic price variables was preliminarily established.Conclusion:The TCPM characteristic price variable indicator system was initially developed.However,due to the complexity of the pricing mechanism and divergent expert opinions,further qualitative and quantitative research methods,along with a dynamic adjustment mechanism,are needed to verify and refine the system.
8.Design of Evidence-Based Decision-Making Pathway for the Selection of the National Essential Medicines List
Haili ZHANG ; Wenjie CAO ; Yijiu YANG ; Weili WANG ; Ning LIANG ; Ziteng HU ; Bin LIU ; Lijiao YAN ; Huizhen LI ; Zhaoyuan GONG ; Guozhen ZHAO ; Yanping WANG ; Nannan SHI
Chinese Health Economics 2025;44(1):15-19
The National Essential Medicines System could protect public health and ensure access to essential medications.Although the current selection methods for China's National Essential Medicines Lists(NEMLs)are becoming more scientific and standardized,there are still problems such as much emphasis on expert experience and the lack of transparency of decision-making basis.To address these issues,it proposes an evidence-based decision-making pathway for NEMLs selection guided by clinical value.This approach ensures a strong integration of evidence and decision-making,offering valuable insights for improving the adjustment procedures and selection criteria of the NEMLs in China.
9.Molecular mechanisms and prospects for disease treatment of ciliogenesis and autophagy
Hao-liang HU ; Jin WANG ; Jia-yan LIU ; Shi-fang HUANG ; Yu-ting LI ; Zhe CHEN ; Lin-xi CHEN
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(4):631-637
Cilia,as cellular sensory organelles,actively partici-pate in and regulate cellular processes such as autophagy and metabolic breakdown during their generation and transportation.Autophagy,on the other hand,is a cell self-protection mecha-nism that maintains cellular homeostasis by clearing aggregates and damaged organelles.Combining recent research findings,this review comprehensively elucidates the bidirectional crosstalk between primary cilia and autophagy.Specifically,it highlights the crucial role of cilia-dependent signaling pathways in activa-ting cellular autophagy and how autophagy regulates cilia genera-tion and length by degrading specific ciliary proteins.Moreover,the dysregulation of primary cilia and autophagy is closely asso-ciated with the clinical manifestations and pathogenesis of vari-ous ciliopathy-related diseases such as polycystic kidney disease and tuberous sclerosis.In terms of pharmacotherapy,this review provides a comprehensive and in-depth overview of small mole-cule inhibitors targeting ciliogenesis,including cytoskeletal drugs and Hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitors.Despite the current limitations in clinical use,these drugs lay the groundw-ork for developing highly specific targeted small molecule inhibi-tors of ciliogenesis and for the treatment of ciliopathies and canc-ers.By systematically discussing ciliogenesis,autophagy,disea-ses and drugs,this review offers new insights for further elucida-ting the crosstalk between ciliogenesis and autophagy,exploring their pathological mechanisms in disease development,and de-veloping therapeutic strategies in the future.
10.Treatment of adolescent skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion patient accompanied with deep overbite by clear aligner through asymmetric anterior guidance:A case report and literature review
Menghan ZHAO ; Hang SHI ; Jiangyi LIANG ; Ke HU ; Xinping FENG ; Luyun WANG ; Huichuan QI ; Ruixin SHI
Journal of Jilin University(Medicine Edition) 2025;51(5):1363-1369
Angle class Ⅱ malocclusion is often characterized by mandibular retraction and lip incompetence,which affects the patient's lateral appearance and may even lead to upper airway stenosis.It can be classified into dental and skeletal types.For skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion patients with mandibular retraction during the peak growth period,mandibular anterior guidance with a functional orthodontic appliance is generally considered as the optimal clinical treatment approach.At present,there remains a paucity of clinical reports on the clinical application of bracket-free clear aligners in mandibular anterior guidance,both domestically and internationally.This article presented a case of an adolescent patient with skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion accompanied with deep overbite treated with bracket-free clear aligner for mandibular anterior guidance in combination with intermaxillary class Ⅱ traction.During the treatment,vertical correction involved anterior intrusion of the anterior teeth to improve the deep overbite,while horizontal correction included maxillary and mandibular expansion to coordinate the width of the dental arches,and asymmetric anterior guidance was used to correct the midline deviation.After 35 months of treatment,the patient's convex facial profile and mandibular retrusion were significantly improved.The subspinale-nasion-supramentale angle(ANB)was decreased from 6.8° to 3.9°,the overbite and overjet were normalized,and the bilateral canine and molar reached a neutral relationship.The mentolabial sulcus depth(Si-LiPg′)and the soft tissue thickness of pogonion to pogonion(Pm-Pm′)were decreased,resulting in a shallower mentolabial sulcus and a more harmonized lateral facial soft tissue profile.The mandibular incisor to mandibular plane angle(IMPA)was decreased from 116.6° to 110.7°,indicating retraction of the lower incisors during mandibular anterior guidance.In conclusion,the orthodontic strategy of mandibular advancement with clear aligners in skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion patients can avoid excessive overcompensation of the upper and lower anterior teeth and shorten the orthodontic treatment cycle.

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