1.Mechanism of Taishan Panshisan in Inhibiting Oxidative Stress Injury of Trophoblast Cells by Regulating KEAP1/Nrf2/FoxO3 Signaling Pathway
Yangyang DUAN ; Xianglun JI ; Jiahong CHEN ; Jinghang YANG ; Xinyu XIAO ; Shutao CHEN ; Chaorui LIN ; Fan LIN ; Shu JIANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):12-22
ObjectiveTo explore the effect and mechanism of Taishan Panshi powder (TSPSP) on inhibiting oxidative stress injury in human chorionic trophoblast cells (HTR-8/SVneo), and to uelucidate the underlying mechanism of TSPSP in the treatment of spontaneous abortion (SA). MethodsGene differential analysis of SA was performed using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and correlated with oxidative stress. Network pharmacology was employed to screen the active components of TSPSP, and a "Chinese medicine-component-target-disease" network was constructed to predict the mechanism of action of TSPSP. For in vitro validation experiments, HTR-8/SVneo cells were divided into blank group, model group, TSPSP-containing serum 2.5%, 5%, 10% groups, and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) inhibitor group (ML385, 30 μmol·L-1). Except for the blank group, other groups were stimulated with 150 μmol·L-1 H2O2 for 3 h to establish a cell oxidative stress injury model. After successful modeling, the blank group and model group were given 10% blank serum, each TSPSP-containing serum group was treated with the corresponding concentration of drug-containing serum, and the Nrf2 inhibitor group was additionally given 30 μmol·L-1 ML385 on the basis of 10% TSPSP-containing serum. All groups of cells were continuously cultured under the above conditions for 24 h, and then samples were collected for subsequent detection. Cell viability in each group was detected by CCK-8 assay. Cell migration rate was detected by scratch test. The contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), Fe2+, and Glutathione (GSH) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was detected by a fluorescent probe (DCF-DA). The protein and mRNA expression levels of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), Nrf2, and forkhead box protein O3 (FoxO3) in cells were detected by immunofluorescence (IF) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). The protein expression levels of KEAP1, Nrf2, FoxO3, Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in cells were detected by Western blot. ResultsThe GSE76862 and GSE22490 datasets were obtained from the GEO database. Differential gene analyses showed that the KEAP1, Nrf2, and FoxO3 genes were all associated with the disease. After matching with the oxidative stress pathway, nine significantly differential pathways were identified (P<0.05), among which three contained the target genes Nrf2 and FoxO3. A total of 246 active ingredient targets of TSPSP and 2 804 SA-related targets were obtained through network pharmacology, and 154 potential action targets were obtained after taking the intersection. Topological analysis showed that targets such as KEAP1 and Nrf2 exhibited high degree values. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the intersection targets were mainly involved in oxidative stress response, FOXO and MAPK signaling pathways, etc. In in vitro experiments, compared with the blank group, the cell viability in the model group was significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the cell viability in each TSPSP-containing serum group was significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the 10% TSPSP-containing serum group, the cell viability in the ML385 group decreased to approximately 70% (P<0.01). Compared with the blank group, the model group showed significantly increased contents of MDA, Fe2+, and ROS, decreased GSH expression (P<0.01), significantly reduced cell migration rate (P<0.01), and increased protein and mRNA expression levels of KEAP1 and FoxO3 (P<0.01), while decreased protein and mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, GPX4, and SOD (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each TSPSP-containing serum group showed significantly decreased contents of MDA, Fe²⁺, and ROS, increased GSH expression (P<0.01), significantly increased migration rate (P<0.01), significantly decreased protein and mRNA expression levels of KEAP1 and FoxO3 (P<0.05, P<0.01), and significantly increased protein and mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, GPX4, and SOD (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the 10% TSPSP-containing serum group, the ML385 group showed reversed trends in all indicators (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionTSPSP can inhibit H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury of trophoblast cells, and its mechanism of action may be related to the drug activating the KEAP1/Nrf2/FoxO3 signaling pathway.
2.Mechanism of Taishan Panshisan in Inhibiting Oxidative Stress Injury of Trophoblast Cells by Regulating KEAP1/Nrf2/FoxO3 Signaling Pathway
Yangyang DUAN ; Xianglun JI ; Jiahong CHEN ; Jinghang YANG ; Xinyu XIAO ; Shutao CHEN ; Chaorui LIN ; Fan LIN ; Shu JIANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):12-22
ObjectiveTo explore the effect and mechanism of Taishan Panshi powder (TSPSP) on inhibiting oxidative stress injury in human chorionic trophoblast cells (HTR-8/SVneo), and to uelucidate the underlying mechanism of TSPSP in the treatment of spontaneous abortion (SA). MethodsGene differential analysis of SA was performed using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and correlated with oxidative stress. Network pharmacology was employed to screen the active components of TSPSP, and a "Chinese medicine-component-target-disease" network was constructed to predict the mechanism of action of TSPSP. For in vitro validation experiments, HTR-8/SVneo cells were divided into blank group, model group, TSPSP-containing serum 2.5%, 5%, 10% groups, and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) inhibitor group (ML385, 30 μmol·L-1). Except for the blank group, other groups were stimulated with 150 μmol·L-1 H2O2 for 3 h to establish a cell oxidative stress injury model. After successful modeling, the blank group and model group were given 10% blank serum, each TSPSP-containing serum group was treated with the corresponding concentration of drug-containing serum, and the Nrf2 inhibitor group was additionally given 30 μmol·L-1 ML385 on the basis of 10% TSPSP-containing serum. All groups of cells were continuously cultured under the above conditions for 24 h, and then samples were collected for subsequent detection. Cell viability in each group was detected by CCK-8 assay. Cell migration rate was detected by scratch test. The contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), Fe2+, and Glutathione (GSH) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was detected by a fluorescent probe (DCF-DA). The protein and mRNA expression levels of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), Nrf2, and forkhead box protein O3 (FoxO3) in cells were detected by immunofluorescence (IF) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). The protein expression levels of KEAP1, Nrf2, FoxO3, Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in cells were detected by Western blot. ResultsThe GSE76862 and GSE22490 datasets were obtained from the GEO database. Differential gene analyses showed that the KEAP1, Nrf2, and FoxO3 genes were all associated with the disease. After matching with the oxidative stress pathway, nine significantly differential pathways were identified (P<0.05), among which three contained the target genes Nrf2 and FoxO3. A total of 246 active ingredient targets of TSPSP and 2 804 SA-related targets were obtained through network pharmacology, and 154 potential action targets were obtained after taking the intersection. Topological analysis showed that targets such as KEAP1 and Nrf2 exhibited high degree values. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the intersection targets were mainly involved in oxidative stress response, FOXO and MAPK signaling pathways, etc. In in vitro experiments, compared with the blank group, the cell viability in the model group was significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the cell viability in each TSPSP-containing serum group was significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the 10% TSPSP-containing serum group, the cell viability in the ML385 group decreased to approximately 70% (P<0.01). Compared with the blank group, the model group showed significantly increased contents of MDA, Fe2+, and ROS, decreased GSH expression (P<0.01), significantly reduced cell migration rate (P<0.01), and increased protein and mRNA expression levels of KEAP1 and FoxO3 (P<0.01), while decreased protein and mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, GPX4, and SOD (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each TSPSP-containing serum group showed significantly decreased contents of MDA, Fe²⁺, and ROS, increased GSH expression (P<0.01), significantly increased migration rate (P<0.01), significantly decreased protein and mRNA expression levels of KEAP1 and FoxO3 (P<0.05, P<0.01), and significantly increased protein and mRNA expression levels of Nrf2, GPX4, and SOD (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the 10% TSPSP-containing serum group, the ML385 group showed reversed trends in all indicators (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionTSPSP can inhibit H2O2-induced oxidative stress injury of trophoblast cells, and its mechanism of action may be related to the drug activating the KEAP1/Nrf2/FoxO3 signaling pathway.
3.From Golgi Stress to Golgiphagy—a New Regulatory Model Involved in Glucose and Lipid Metabolism
Hai-Jun WEI ; He-Ming WANG ; Shu-Jing CHEN ; Shu-Zhi WANG ; Lin-Xi CHEN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):275-292
The Golgi body, a core organelle in eukaryotic cells, plays a critical role in protein modification, sorting, vesicular transport, and serves as a key site for lipid synthesis and glycosylation. Glucose and lipid metabolism are central processes for cellular energy maintenance and biosynthesis, and are closely linked to Golgi function. Recent studies have revealed the extensive involvement of the Golgi body in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, where maintaining its structural and functional homeostasis is crucial for normal physiological activity. Under various stress conditions such as acidosis, hypoxia, and nutrient deficiency, the Golgi body undergoes structural and functional disruption, leading to Golgi stress. This in turn activates specific signaling pathways, such as those mediated by the cAMP-responsive element binding protein 3 (CREB3) and proteoglycans, to alleviate Golgi stress and enhance Golgi function. Golgi stress contributes to glucose and lipid metabolic disorders by affecting the activity of insulin receptors, glucose transporters, and lipid metabolism-related enzymes. For example, Golgi stress triggers the cleavage and release of the active fragment of CREB3, which enters the nucleus and upregulates the transcription of ADP-ribosylation factor 4 (ARF4) and key gluconeogenic enzymes, including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase). ARF4 promotes vesicle retrograde transport between the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum, maintains secretory capacity, and enhances hepatic glucose output. This pathway is particularly active under high-fat or lipotoxic stress, leading to fasting hyperglycemia. When damaged Golgi components accumulate beyond a tolerable threshold, the cell initiates an autophagic response, selectively encapsulating the damaged Golgi into autophagosomes, which then fuse with lysosomes to form autolysosomes, leading to Golgiphagy. This process results in the degradation and clearance of damaged Golgi, thereby regulating Golgi quantity, quality, and function. Golgiphagy also plays a significant role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. For instance, under high-glucose conditions, autophagic flux may be suppressed, impairing the timely clearance and renewal of damaged Golgi, compromising its normal function, and further exacerbating glucose metabolism disorders. Additionally, Golgiphagy may participate in lipid degradation and influence lipid synthesis and transport. Research indicates that Golgi stress and Golgiphagy play important roles in glucose and lipid metabolism-related diseases. For example, the leucine zipper protein (LZIP) under Golgi stress conditions can promote hepatic steatosis. In mouse primary cells and human tissues, LZIP induces the expression of apolipoprotein A-IV (APOA4), which increases peripheral free fatty acid uptake, resulting in lipid accumulation in the liver and contributing to the development of fatty liver disease. This review systematically outlines the structure and function of the Golgi apparatus, the molecular regulatory mechanisms of Golgi stress and Golgiphagy, and their synergistic roles. It further elaborates on how Golgi stress and Golgiphagy participate in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, discusses their clinical significance in related diseases such as diabetes, fatty liver disease, and obesity, and highlights potential novel therapeutic strategies from the perspective of Golgi-targeted medicine
4.From Golgi Stress to Golgiphagy—a New Regulatory Model Involved in Glucose and Lipid Metabolism
Hai-Jun WEI ; He-Ming WANG ; Shu-Jing CHEN ; Shu-Zhi WANG ; Lin-Xi CHEN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(2):275-292
The Golgi body, a core organelle in eukaryotic cells, plays a critical role in protein modification, sorting, vesicular transport, and serves as a key site for lipid synthesis and glycosylation. Glucose and lipid metabolism are central processes for cellular energy maintenance and biosynthesis, and are closely linked to Golgi function. Recent studies have revealed the extensive involvement of the Golgi body in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, where maintaining its structural and functional homeostasis is crucial for normal physiological activity. Under various stress conditions such as acidosis, hypoxia, and nutrient deficiency, the Golgi body undergoes structural and functional disruption, leading to Golgi stress. This in turn activates specific signaling pathways, such as those mediated by the cAMP-responsive element binding protein 3 (CREB3) and proteoglycans, to alleviate Golgi stress and enhance Golgi function. Golgi stress contributes to glucose and lipid metabolic disorders by affecting the activity of insulin receptors, glucose transporters, and lipid metabolism-related enzymes. For example, Golgi stress triggers the cleavage and release of the active fragment of CREB3, which enters the nucleus and upregulates the transcription of ADP-ribosylation factor 4 (ARF4) and key gluconeogenic enzymes, including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase). ARF4 promotes vesicle retrograde transport between the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum, maintains secretory capacity, and enhances hepatic glucose output. This pathway is particularly active under high-fat or lipotoxic stress, leading to fasting hyperglycemia. When damaged Golgi components accumulate beyond a tolerable threshold, the cell initiates an autophagic response, selectively encapsulating the damaged Golgi into autophagosomes, which then fuse with lysosomes to form autolysosomes, leading to Golgiphagy. This process results in the degradation and clearance of damaged Golgi, thereby regulating Golgi quantity, quality, and function. Golgiphagy also plays a significant role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. For instance, under high-glucose conditions, autophagic flux may be suppressed, impairing the timely clearance and renewal of damaged Golgi, compromising its normal function, and further exacerbating glucose metabolism disorders. Additionally, Golgiphagy may participate in lipid degradation and influence lipid synthesis and transport. Research indicates that Golgi stress and Golgiphagy play important roles in glucose and lipid metabolism-related diseases. For example, the leucine zipper protein (LZIP) under Golgi stress conditions can promote hepatic steatosis. In mouse primary cells and human tissues, LZIP induces the expression of apolipoprotein A-IV (APOA4), which increases peripheral free fatty acid uptake, resulting in lipid accumulation in the liver and contributing to the development of fatty liver disease. This review systematically outlines the structure and function of the Golgi apparatus, the molecular regulatory mechanisms of Golgi stress and Golgiphagy, and their synergistic roles. It further elaborates on how Golgi stress and Golgiphagy participate in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, discusses their clinical significance in related diseases such as diabetes, fatty liver disease, and obesity, and highlights potential novel therapeutic strategies from the perspective of Golgi-targeted medicine
5.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.
6.Electroacupuncture Ameliorates NLRP3-mediated Pyroptosis in Spinal Cord Injury Rats by Reshaping The Gut Microbiota
Yin-Jie CUI ; Hong-Ru LI ; Jing-Yi LIU ; Hai-Lin DU ; Shu-Wen LIU ; Yuan YANG ; Chen-Guang ZHENG ; Jian-Qin XIANG ; Xiao-Juan SONG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(5):1132-1153
ObjectiveSpinal cord injury (SCI) directly impairs the regulatory function of the autonomic nervous system, induces intestinal dysfunction, and significantly reduces patients’ quality of life. Preclinical studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) therapy can regulate the brain-gut axis and is used to treat central nervous system diseases such as major depressive disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Recent research has established that fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from EA-treated SCI rats restored intestinal motility and colonic morphology. However, it remains unclear whether the regulation of gut microbiota by EA therapy directly contributes to neural repair after SCI. This study aims to explore whether gut microbiota mediates the neuroprotective effect of EA in the treatment of SCI and its possible mechanism. MethodsThe study employed RNA transcriptome analysis of spinal cord tissue to characterize gene expression profiles and to identify key signaling pathways following EA treatment for SCI. Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining and Nissl staining were used to observe the morphological changes in spinal cord tissue. Western blot (WB) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were applied to detect the effects of EA on the expression of proteins related to nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing receptor 3 (NLRP3) -dependent pyroptosis. Using 16S rDNA sequencing, the study observed alterations in gut microbiota diversity and community composition in SCI rats. Prior to establishing SCI models, rats were pretreated with an antibiotic cocktail to induce gut dysbiosis, and the effects on intestinal function and spinal cord neural repair were evaluated. FMT was performed to investigate the regulatory effects of post-EA FMT on motor function, general status, liver and spleen indices, and NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis in SCI rats. ResultsEA improved motor function and reduced regulated neuronal cell death in SCI rats. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated the activation of immune- and inflammation-related pathways post-SCI, including NOD-like receptors, nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB), and Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways. EA primarily influenced intestinal inflammation and autoimmune functions. 16S rDNA sequencing illustrated that EA did not alter the diversity of gut microbiota. However, EA altered the gut microbiota composition in SCI rats, increasing Lactobacillus and Akkermansia genera while rebalancing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Furthermore, depletion of gut microbiota by antibiotics disrupted the intestinal barrier, reduced the expression of intestinal barrier proteins Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1) and Occludin, elevated serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) levels, exacerbated spinal cord tissue damage, and hindered motor function recovery in SCI rats. FMT from donors treated with EA reduced LBP levels in the intestine, blood, and spinal cord of rats, inhibited the TLR4 myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88)-NF‑κB pathway and NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis, and improved motor function. On the other hand, FMT treatment resulted in decreased body weight and food intake, whereas FMT using EA-treated donors effectively alleviated these alterations. ConclusionEA effectively alleviated neuroinflammatory responses in rats with SCI, primarily through regulating the gut microbiota and suppressing the NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis signaling pathway.
7.Electroacupuncture Ameliorates NLRP3-mediated Pyroptosis in Spinal Cord Injury Rats by Reshaping The Gut Microbiota
Yin-Jie CUI ; Hong-Ru LI ; Jing-Yi LIU ; Hai-Lin DU ; Shu-Wen LIU ; Yuan YANG ; Chen-Guang ZHENG ; Jian-Qin XIANG ; Xiao-Juan SONG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(5):1132-1153
ObjectiveSpinal cord injury (SCI) directly impairs the regulatory function of the autonomic nervous system, induces intestinal dysfunction, and significantly reduces patients’ quality of life. Preclinical studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) therapy can regulate the brain-gut axis and is used to treat central nervous system diseases such as major depressive disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Recent research has established that fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from EA-treated SCI rats restored intestinal motility and colonic morphology. However, it remains unclear whether the regulation of gut microbiota by EA therapy directly contributes to neural repair after SCI. This study aims to explore whether gut microbiota mediates the neuroprotective effect of EA in the treatment of SCI and its possible mechanism. MethodsThe study employed RNA transcriptome analysis of spinal cord tissue to characterize gene expression profiles and to identify key signaling pathways following EA treatment for SCI. Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining and Nissl staining were used to observe the morphological changes in spinal cord tissue. Western blot (WB) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were applied to detect the effects of EA on the expression of proteins related to nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing receptor 3 (NLRP3) -dependent pyroptosis. Using 16S rDNA sequencing, the study observed alterations in gut microbiota diversity and community composition in SCI rats. Prior to establishing SCI models, rats were pretreated with an antibiotic cocktail to induce gut dysbiosis, and the effects on intestinal function and spinal cord neural repair were evaluated. FMT was performed to investigate the regulatory effects of post-EA FMT on motor function, general status, liver and spleen indices, and NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis in SCI rats. ResultsEA improved motor function and reduced regulated neuronal cell death in SCI rats. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated the activation of immune- and inflammation-related pathways post-SCI, including NOD-like receptors, nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB), and Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways. EA primarily influenced intestinal inflammation and autoimmune functions. 16S rDNA sequencing illustrated that EA did not alter the diversity of gut microbiota. However, EA altered the gut microbiota composition in SCI rats, increasing Lactobacillus and Akkermansia genera while rebalancing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Furthermore, depletion of gut microbiota by antibiotics disrupted the intestinal barrier, reduced the expression of intestinal barrier proteins Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1) and Occludin, elevated serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) levels, exacerbated spinal cord tissue damage, and hindered motor function recovery in SCI rats. FMT from donors treated with EA reduced LBP levels in the intestine, blood, and spinal cord of rats, inhibited the TLR4 myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88)-NF‑κB pathway and NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis, and improved motor function. On the other hand, FMT treatment resulted in decreased body weight and food intake, whereas FMT using EA-treated donors effectively alleviated these alterations. ConclusionEA effectively alleviated neuroinflammatory responses in rats with SCI, primarily through regulating the gut microbiota and suppressing the NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis signaling pathway.
8.Gastrointestinal transit time of radiopaque ingested foreign bodies in children: experience of two paediatric tertiary centres.
Chen Xiang ANG ; Win Kai MUN ; Marion Margaret AW ; Diana LIN ; Shu-Ling CHONG ; Lin Yin ONG ; Shireen Anne NAH
Singapore medical journal 2025;66(1):24-27
INTRODUCTION:
Foreign body (FB) ingestion is a common paediatric emergency. While guidelines exist for urgent intervention, less is known of the natural progress of FBs passing through the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). We reviewed these FB transit times in an outpatient cohort.
METHODS:
A retrospective review was performed on all children (≤18 years) treated for radiopaque FB ingestion at two major tertiary paediatric centres from 2015 to 2016. Demographic data, FB types, outcomes and hospital visits (emergency department [ED] and outpatient) were recorded. All cases discharged from the ED with outpatient follow-up were included. We excluded those who were not given follow-up appointments and those admitted to inpatient wards. We categorised the outcomes into confirmed passage (ascertained via abdominal X-ray or reported direct stool visualisation by patients/caregivers) and assumed passage (if patients did not attend follow-up appointments).
RESULTS:
Of the 2,122 ED visits for FB ingestion, 350 patients who were given outpatient follow-up appointments were reviewed (median age 4.35 years [range: 0.5-14.7], 196 [56%] male). The largest proportion (16%) was aged 1-2 years. Coins were the most common ingested FB, followed by toys. High-risk FB (magnets or batteries) formed 9% of cases ( n =33). The 50 th centile for FB retention was 8, 4 and 7 days for coins, batteries and other radiopaque FBs, respectively; all confirmed passages occurred at 37, 7 and 23 days, respectively. Overall, 197 (68%) patients defaulted on their last given follow-up.
CONCLUSION
This study provides insight into the transit times of FB ingested by children, which helps medical professionals to decide on the optimal time for follow-up visits and provide appropriate counsel to caregivers.
Adolescent
;
Child
;
Child, Preschool
;
Female
;
Humans
;
Infant
;
Male
;
Eating
;
Emergency Service, Hospital
;
Foreign Bodies/diagnostic imaging*
;
Gastrointestinal Tract/diagnostic imaging*
;
Gastrointestinal Transit
;
Retrospective Studies
;
Singapore
;
Tertiary Care Centers
9.The effects of tripterygium glycosides on adipocyte differentiation,inflamma-tion,and fibrosis of orbital fibroblasts in thyroid associated ophthalmopathy
Jin ZHU ; Shu ZHU ; Yuling ZHONG ; Hong CHEN ; Wenjie LIN
Recent Advances in Ophthalmology 2025;45(3):202-210
Objective To explore the effects of tripterygium glycosides(TGs)on adipocyte differentiation,inflam-mation,and fibrosis of orbital fibroblasts(OFs)in thyroid associated ophthalmopathy(TAO).Methods OFs isolated from 12 TAO patients were cultured and identified.CCK-8 experiment was used to detect the effect of different concentra-tions of TGs(0,12.5,25.0,50.0,100.0 mg·L-1)on the activity of OFs.Then,adipocyte differentiation phenotypes of OFs were induced and divided into a control group,an adipocyte differentiation group(DM),and TG groups(12.5,25.0,and 50.0 mg·L-1 TGs).Inflammation phenotypes of OFs were induced and divided into a control group,an IL-1 β group,and TG groups(12.5,25.0,and 50.0 mg·L-1 TGs).Fibrosis phenotypes of OFs were induced and divided into a control group,a TGF-βi group,and TG groups(12.5,25.0,and 50.0 mg·L-1 TGs).Oil red O staining was used to detect the formation of lipid droplets in OFs of adipocyte differentiation phenotype.ELISA was used to measure IL-6 and TNF-α levels in OFs of inflammation phenotype and HA levels in OFs of fibrosis phenotype.Transwell experiment was used to detect the cell migration rate of OFs of fibrosis phenotype.Real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)and Western blot were used to detect the expression levels of PPAR-γ,c/EBP-α,FABP-4,perilipin-1,and adiponectin mRNAs and pro-teins in OFs of adipocyte differentiation phenotype,the expression levels of IL-6,TNF-α,COX-2,MCP-1 and ICAM-1 mR-NAs and proteins in OFs of inflammation phenotype,and the expression levels of Vimentin,Fibronectin,COL1A1,COL1A2 and ACTA2 mRNAs and proteins in OFs of fibrosis phenotype.Results The cells were identified as OFs.12.5,25.0,and 50.0 mg·L-1 of TGs had no significant effect on OF activity and these three concentrations were used in the subsequent ex-periment.In OFs of adipocyte differentiation phenotype,the number of orange red lipid droplets greatly decreased after TG treatment.The expression levels of PPAR-γ,c/EBP-α,FABP-4,perilipin-1,and adiponectin mRNAs and proteins in cells of TG groups were significantly lower than those of the DM group(all P<0.05).In OFs of inflammation phenotype,IL-6 and TNF-α levels in supernatant and cells of TG groups were significantly decreased,compared with those of the IL-1βgroup(all P<0.05).The expression levels of COX-2,MCP-1,and ICAM-1 mRNAs and proteins in cells of TG groups were significantly lower than those of the IL-1 β group(all P<0.05).In OFs of fibrosis phenotype,the cell migration rates,HA levels in cell culture supernatant,and the expression levels of Vimentin,Fibronectin,COL1A1,COL1A2,and ACTA2 mR-NAs and proteins in cells of TG groups were significant lower than those of the TGF-β1 group(all P<0.05).Conclusion TGs can inhibit the adipocyte differentiation,IL-1 β-induced inflammatory responses and TGF-β1-induced fibrosis of TAO-OFs.
10.Research progress on mechanism of curcumin in treatment of depression
Lin WANG ; Qi-fei PAN ; Wen-juan LONG ; Jia-rong DU ; Zhong-yang HU ; Xin-yao LI ; Yi-shu CHEN ; Dong-dong QIN ; Xiao-man LYU
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(9):1618-1623
Depression is a prevalent mental and emotional disor-der that often results in significant emotional disturbances,cog-nitive dysfunction,and memory impairments.It is characterized by a high incidence rate,a substantial disability burden,and limited therapeutic efficacy.Currently,the long-term use of medications for the treatment of depression can result in a range of adverse reactions,highlighting the urgent need to explore no-vel approaches that can effectively alleviate depressive symptoms while minimizing side effects.Curcumin,a natural polyphenolic compound derived from the rhizome of turmeric,demonstrates considerable potential in the prevention and treatment of depres-sion,owing to its diverse array of biological activities.In recent years,numerous studies have investigated the use of curcumin for the treatment of depression.This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the mechanisms of action underlying curcumin's efficacy in treating depression.Specifically,it focu-ses on its ability to improve neurotransmitter imbalances,restore neural plasticity,alleviate neural damage,mitigate dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal(HPA)axis,regulate in-flammatory factors and neuroinflammatory signaling pathways,and inhibit oxidative stress.This review is intended to offer in-sights and methodological references for basic research on curcu-min,as well as for the development of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of depression.

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