1.Colonization, drug resistance, and molecular epidemiological characteristics of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus among dairy farm workers in Xinjiang
Jiguo JIN ; Zhaojie WANG ; Yanggui CHEN ; Xixiao MA ; Wanting XU ; Xingyu WANG ; Xiangnan WEI ; Fan WU ; Xintao DANG ; Xueying XIANG ; Jianyong WU ; Fuye LI
Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2026;43(2):201-207
Background Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important pathogen for both human bloodstream infections and mastitis in cows. However, little attention has been paid to the cross-host transmission of MRSA from cows to high-risk groups in China. Objective To determine the MRSA colonization rates among dairy cows and dairy farm workers in Xinjiang, identify the antibiotic resistance profiles and molecular characteristics of the isolates, and provide scientific evidence for the formulation of targeted infection control strategies. Method A cross-sectional survey combined with laboratory pathogen analysis was conducted. From June to August 2024, large-scale dairy farms in Xinjiang region were selected as study sites. Nasal swabs (n=96) and skin swabs (n=39) were collected from workers, and bovine nasal swab samples (n=109) were collected simultaneously. All samples were subjected to MRSA isolation, cultivation, and identification, followed by antibiotic susceptibility testing to characterize resistance phenotypes. Staphylococcus aureus protein A (Spa) typing was performed to determine strain genotypes and elucidate MRSA colonization rates and molecular epidemiological patterns. Results A total of 35 MRSA strains was successfully isolated from 244 samples. The MRSA colonization rates among dairy farm workers and dairy cows were 20.83% (20/96) and 12.84% (14/109), respectively, with an overall isolation rate of 14.34% (35/244). Among the workers, the nasal colonization rate was 16.67% (16/96), and the skin colonization rate was 12.82% (5/39). One worker exhibited MRSA colonization at multiple body sites. All MRSA strains were resistant to cefoxitin (100%, 35/35). The resistance rates to erythromycin and clindamycin were 42.86% (15/35) and 34.29% (12/35), respectively. Thirteen strains showed a multidrug-resistant phenotype, whereas all strains were susceptible to vancomycin. The MRSA isolates exhibited high genetic diversity, with 13 Spa types identified, among which t441 was the most prevalent (8 strains). Both t441 and t034 types were detected in samples from both the dairy cows and their handlers. These two Spa types also carried and stably inherited specific resistance combinations, including erythromycin–clindamycin–cefoxitin and ciprofloxacin–erythromycin–clindamycin–gentamicin–cefoxitin–tetracycline, and a statistically significant association was also observed between the two resistance profiles and the bacterial types (P < 0.001). In addition, one novel Spa type strain was identified. Conclusion MRSA colonization rates among dairy cows and dairy farm workers in Xinjiang are relatively high, with evidence of multi-site colonization. The isolates exhibit high levels of multidrug resistance and genetic diversity, indicating a potential risk of cross-host transmission.
2.Analysis of knowledge awareness and associated factors of chikungunya fever among medical college students in Baise City
Chinese Journal of School Health 2026;47(3):347-350
Objective:
To understand the awareness of chikungunya fever knowledge and its related factors among medical college students in Baise City, so as to provide a scientific basis to offer relevant courses and special education.
Methods:
From July to August 2025, 7 286 enrolled medical students were selected by a sampling method from a medical college in Baise City to participate in the questionnaire survey. The questionnaire covered epidemiological characteristics, clinical symptoms, and prevention/control knowledge of chikungunya fever. Statistical analyses including the Chi quare test and multivariate Logistic regression models were performed.
Results:
The overall awareness rate of chikungunya fever knowledge among the medical students was 18.89%. Among the knowledge items, the awareness rate of "the high incidence season" was the highest (84.05%), while that of "the infectious period" was the lowest (17.80%). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that medical students with female (a OR= 1.37 , 95%CI =1.20- 1.57 ), the age for over 25 years old (a OR=1.76, 95%CI =1.05-2.93), whose father had a middle school educational level (a OR=1.18, 95%CI =1.05-1.31), and majored in preventive medicine (a OR=1.54, 95%CI =1.10-1.67) had relatively higher awareness rates of chikungunya fever knowledge (all P <0.05). In contrast, students of Zhuang ethnicity (a OR= 0.87 , 95%CI =0.76-0.98) and majoring in nursing (a OR=0.74, 95%CI =0.61-0.91) or pharmacy (a OR=0.70, 95%CI =0.52-0.95) had relatively lower awareness rates (all P <0.05).
Conclusions
The awareness rate of chikungunya fever related knowledge among medical college students in Baise City is relatively low. Schools should take targeted publicity measures to improve medical students awareness.
3.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.
4.Study on the improving mechanism of Yifei xuanfei jiangzhuo formula on vascular dementia model rats based on the GRB2/ERK/CRLS1 pathway
Guifeng ZHUO ; Wei CHEN ; Xiaomin ZHU ; Yulan FU ; Jinzhi ZHANG ; Lin WU
China Pharmacy 2026;37(7):877-882
OBJECTIVE To explore the improvine mechanism of Yifei xuanfei jiangzhuo formula (YFXF) on vascular dementia (VAD) model rats based on the growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/cardiolipin synthase 1 (CRLS1) pathway. METHODS VAD rat model was established by permanent bilateral common carotid artery ligation. Forty-eight successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into the model group (normal saline), donepezil hydrochloride group (positive control group, 0.2 g/kg), and YFXF low- and high-dose groups (12.18 and 24.36 g/kg, calculated based on the total amount of crude drug), respectively. In addition, a sham operation group (normal saline) was set up. There were 12 rats in each group. Daily intragastric administration of drug or normal saline was performed for 30 consecutive days. After the last administration, the spatial cognitive ability of the rats was evaluated, the pathological morphology of the hippocampus was observed, the contents of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) in serum were detected, the expression levels of GRB2/ERK/CRLS1 pathway-related proteins and the mRNA levels of GRB2, CRLS1, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1(ND1), Tafazzin (TAZ), phospholipid scramblase 3(PLSCR3) and the ATP content in hippocampal tissue were measured. RESULTS Compared with the sham operation group, the escape latency of rats in the model group was significantly prolonged ( P <0.05), and the number of crossing platform was significantly reduced ( P <0.05), while the number of pyramidal cells and Nissl bodies in the hippocampus decreased sharply; the content of TNF-α in serum was significantly increased ( P <0.05), and the content of IL-4 was significantly decreased ( P <0.05); the expression levels of GRB2 and CRLS1 proteins, the phosphorylation level of ERK protein, the relative expression levels of GRB2, CRLS1,ND1, TAZ, and PLSCR3 mRNA, and the content of ATP in hippocampal tissue were significantly decreased ( P <0.05). Compared with the model group, the above pathological changes in the hippocampal tissue of each administration group were alleviated, and the quantitative indicators were significantly restored ( P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS YFXF may improve hippocampal neuron injury in VAD rats by activating the GRB2/ERK/CRLS1 pathway, maintaining cardiolipin homeostasis, and improving mitochondrial energy metabolism.
5.Single-center analysis of unplanned reoperation case after liver transplantation
Zhi CHEN ; Qingqing DAI ; Fan HUANG ; Guobin WANG ; Xiaojun YU ; Ruolin WU ; Liujin HOU ; Zhenghui YE ; Xinghua ZHANG ; Wei WANG ; Xiaoping GENG ; Hongchuan ZHAO
Organ Transplantation 2026;17(3):452-459
Objective To analyze the main causes and risk factors of unplanned reoperation after liver transplantation. Methods The clinical data of 242 liver transplant recipients in the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University from January 2015 to December 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. According to whether unplanned reoperation was performed during the same hospitalization after surgery, the recipients were divided into the reoperation group (n=36) and the non-reoperation group (n=206). The preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative data of the two groups, as well as donor and graft-related data, were compared to analyze the risk factors of unplanned reoperation after liver transplantation and the survival status of the two groups. Results Among the 242 liver transplant recipients, 36 underwent unplanned reoperations, with a total of 54 procedures including various laparotomies, endoscopic and interventional surgeries, among which there were 20 laparotomies, 18 endoscopic surgeries and 16 interventional surgeries. The most common cause of unplanned reoperation was biliary complications (20 times), followed by vascular complications (17 times). Compared with the non-reoperation group, the reoperation group had longer graft cold ischemia time, higher postoperative fatality rate of recipients, longer length of stay in the intensive care unit and postoperative hospital stay, and higher total hospitalization costs (all P<0.05). The incidence of unplanned reoperation was higher in recipients who underwent split liver transplantation (P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that intraoperative blood loss ≥1 000 mL, positive culture of graft perfusate and split liver transplantation were independent risk factors for unplanned reoperation (all P<0.05). The postoperative 7-day, 1-month, 3-month and 6-month survival rates of recipients in the reoperation group and the non-reoperation group were 100% vs. 98.1%, 88.9% vs. 94.2%, 69.4% vs. 90.8% and 66.7% vs. 90.8%, respectively, and the postoperative survival rate of recipients in the reoperation group was lower than that in the non-reoperation group (P<0.05). Conclusions The main causes of unplanned reoperation after liver transplantation are biliary complications, vascular complications, abdominal incision infection and intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Intraoperative massive blood loss, positive culture of graft perfusate and split liver transplantation are the risk factors associated with unplanned reoperation after liver transplantation.
6.Long-term survival outcomes and prognostic factors following radical resection of pancreatic body and tail cancer:a retrospective analysis of 992 patients
Dong XU ; Yang WU ; Kai ZHANG ; Nan LYU ; Qianqian WANG ; Pengfei WU ; Jie YIN ; Baobao CAI ; Guodong SHI ; Jianzhen LIN ; Yazhou WANG ; Lingdi YIN ; Zipeng LU ; Min TU ; Jianmin CHEN ; Feng GUO ; Jishu WEI ; Junli WU ; Wentao GAO ; Cuncai DAI ; Yi MIAO ; Kuirong JIANG
Chinese Journal of Surgery 2026;64(1):46-54
Objective:To investigate the survival outcomes and prognostic factors in patients undergoing radical resection for pancreatic body and tail cancer.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted on 992 patients who underwent radical resection for pancreatic body and tail cancer at the Pancreatic Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2016 to June 2024. In this study, 577 (58.2%) were male and 415 (41.8%) were female,with an age of (65±9) years (range: 26 to 86 years). Follow-up continued until June 2024. Survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method,and prognostic factors were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models.Results:Among 992 patients,open surgery was the predominant approach (89.1%, 884/992), and radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (RAMPS) was performed in 317 patients (32.0%). Combined organ resection,venous resection,and arterial resection were performed in 23.5%, 9.3%,and 11.2% of patients,respectively. The rates of R0, R1-1 mm, and R1-direct resections were 49.8% (494/992),41.5% (412/992), and 8.7% (86/992),respectively. Stage ⅡB was the most common TNM stage (32.2%,319/992). A total of 801 patients (80.8%) received adjuvant chemotherapy. The median follow-up period was 32.0(8.8) months(range:3.2 to 105.3 months),during which 508 patients (51.2%) died. The overall median survival (OS) was 26.4 months,with 1-,3-, and 5-year survival rates of 79.0%,40.0%, and 29.0%, respectively. In the recent five years (from 2020 to 2024), the median OS improved significantly to 34.1 months compared to 20.0 months from 2016 to 2019 ( P<0.01). Histological subtype analysis showed that the median OS time was 26.7 months for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC, n=855),58.9 months for invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma (IPMC, n=32),and 15.7 months for adenosquamous carcinoma of pancreas (ASCP, n=73) ( P=0.001). Among PDAC patients, adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved survival (29.1 months vs. 14.4 months, P<0.01);in IPMC patients, adjuvant chemotherapy also extended survival (65.7 months vs. 58.9 months, P=0.047). Although ASCP patients receiving chemotherapy had a longer median OS time than those without (18.8 months vs. 8.9 months),the difference was not statistically significant ( P=0.151). Multivariate Cox regression analysis in PDAC patients indicated that adjuvant chemotherapy, R0 resection, T stage,N stage,and tumor differentiation were independent prognostic factors ( P<0.01). The median OS time by TNM stage was:not reached for stage ⅠA, 51.6 months for ⅠB, 25.5 months for ⅡA, 23.7 months for ⅡB, 23.0 months for Ⅲ, and 14.4 months for Ⅳ. The median OS time for R0,R1-1 mm,and R1-direct resections was 34.1,24.7,and 15.7 months,respectively ( P<0.01). Conclusion:Adjuvant chemotherapy,R0 resection,tumor stage,and differentiation are independent prognostic factors for pancreatic body and tail cancer.
7.Neuroprotective Mechanism of Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo Prescription on VaD Rats Based on NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway
Bingmao YUAN ; Wei CHEN ; Xiu LAN ; Lingfei JIANG ; Lin WU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):88-96
ObjectiveTo investigate the molecular mechanism by which Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription regulates the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway to improve neuronal function in vascular dementia (VaD) rats. MethodsA VaD model was established by intermittently clamping the bilateral common carotid arteries (CCA) combined with bilateral vascular occlusion (2-VO). Eighty-four SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, sham group, model group, piracetam group (0.2 g·kg-1), and low-, medium-, and high-dose Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription groups (6.09, 12.18, and 24.36 g·kg-1). Drug administration began on day 7 after surgery, once daily for 28 consecutive days. Behavioral experiments were used to evaluate learning and spatial memory. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was applied to observe pathological morphological changes in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine the ultrastructure of hippocampal neurons. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) was used to detect neuronal apoptosis in the CA1 region. Immunohistochemistry was performed to determine the positive expression rate of neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN). Immunofluorescence single staining was used to assess nuclear expression of NF-κB p65 in brain tissue. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of inhibitor of κB kinase (IKK), NF-κB p65, NLRP3, Caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group showed a significant reduction in platform-crossing frequency (P0.01), aggravated hippocampal injury, a significant increase in neuronal apoptosis (P0.05), decreased NeuN positivity in the CA1 region (P0.05), increased nuclear expression of NF-κB p65 (P0.05), and significantly elevated expression of p-IKK, p-NF-κB p65, NLRP3, cleaved Caspase-1, ASC, and cleaved IL-1β (P0.05). Compared with the model group, all drug-treated groups improved learning and spatial memory in VaD rats, alleviated hippocampal pathological injury and neuronal apoptosis, and protected neuronal ultrastructure. Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription at doses of 12.18 and 24.36 g·kg-1 reduced hippocampal expression levels of p-IKK, p-NF-κB p65, NLRP3, Caspase-1, ASC, and cleaved IL-1β in VaD rats (P0.05), showing dose-dependent inhibition of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. ConclusionYifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription may exert neuroprotective effects by regulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, thereby reducing neuroinflammation and inhibiting hippocampal neuronal apoptosis.
8.Neuroprotective Mechanism of Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo Prescription on VaD Rats Based on NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway
Bingmao YUAN ; Wei CHEN ; Xiu LAN ; Lingfei JIANG ; Lin WU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):88-96
ObjectiveTo investigate the molecular mechanism by which Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription regulates the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway to improve neuronal function in vascular dementia (VaD) rats. MethodsA VaD model was established by intermittently clamping the bilateral common carotid arteries (CCA) combined with bilateral vascular occlusion (2-VO). Eighty-four SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, sham group, model group, piracetam group (0.2 g·kg-1), and low-, medium-, and high-dose Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription groups (6.09, 12.18, and 24.36 g·kg-1). Drug administration began on day 7 after surgery, once daily for 28 consecutive days. Behavioral experiments were used to evaluate learning and spatial memory. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was applied to observe pathological morphological changes in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine the ultrastructure of hippocampal neurons. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) was used to detect neuronal apoptosis in the CA1 region. Immunohistochemistry was performed to determine the positive expression rate of neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN). Immunofluorescence single staining was used to assess nuclear expression of NF-κB p65 in brain tissue. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of inhibitor of κB kinase (IKK), NF-κB p65, NLRP3, Caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). ResultsCompared with the blank group, the model group showed a significant reduction in platform-crossing frequency (P0.01), aggravated hippocampal injury, a significant increase in neuronal apoptosis (P0.05), decreased NeuN positivity in the CA1 region (P0.05), increased nuclear expression of NF-κB p65 (P0.05), and significantly elevated expression of p-IKK, p-NF-κB p65, NLRP3, cleaved Caspase-1, ASC, and cleaved IL-1β (P0.05). Compared with the model group, all drug-treated groups improved learning and spatial memory in VaD rats, alleviated hippocampal pathological injury and neuronal apoptosis, and protected neuronal ultrastructure. Yifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription at doses of 12.18 and 24.36 g·kg-1 reduced hippocampal expression levels of p-IKK, p-NF-κB p65, NLRP3, Caspase-1, ASC, and cleaved IL-1β in VaD rats (P0.05), showing dose-dependent inhibition of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. ConclusionYifei Xuanfei Jiangzhuo prescription may exert neuroprotective effects by regulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, thereby reducing neuroinflammation and inhibiting hippocampal neuronal apoptosis.
9.Clinical Advantages of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treatment of Childhood Simple Obesity: Insights from Expert Consensus
Qi ZHANG ; Yingke LIU ; Xiaoxiao ZHANG ; Guichen NI ; Heyin XIAO ; Junhong WANG ; Liqun WU ; Zhanfeng YAN ; Kundi WANG ; Jiajia CHEN ; Hong ZHENG ; Xinying GAO ; Liya WEI ; Qiang HE ; Qian ZHAO ; Huimin SU ; Zhaolan LIU ; Dafeng LONG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(6):238-245
Childhood simple obesity has become a significant public health issue in China. Modern medicine primarily relies on lifestyle interventions and often suffers from poor long-term compliance, while pharmacological options are limited and associated with potential adverse effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long history in the prevention and management of this condition, demonstrating eight distinct advantages, including systematic theoretical foundation, diversified therapeutic approaches, definite therapeutic efficacy, high safety profile, good patient compliance, comprehensive intervention strategies, emphasis on prevention, and stepwise treatment protocols. Additionally, TCM is characterized by six distinctive features: the use of natural medicinal substances, non-invasive external therapies, integration of medicinal dietetics, simple exercise regimens, precise syndrome differentiation, and diverse dosage forms. By combining internal and external treatments, TCM facilitates individualized regimen adjustment and holistic regulation, demonstrating remarkable effects in improving obesity-related metabolic indicators, regulating constitutional imbalance, and promoting healthy behaviors. However, challenges remain, such as inconsistent operational standards, insufficient high-quality clinical evidence, and a gap between basic research and clinical application. Future efforts should focus on accelerating the standardization of TCM diagnosis and treatment, conducting multicenter randomized controlled trials, and fostering interdisciplinary integration, so as to enhance the scientific validity and international recognition of TCM in the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity.
10.Effect and mechanism of Biejiajian Pill on subcutaneous xenograft tumor model of hepatocellular carcinoma Huh7 cells
Lu LU ; Huanling CHEN ; Jian XU ; Yuanqin DU ; Xiaoli LIU ; Yingsheng WU ; Chengting WU ; Wei BAN ; Jingjing HUANG ; Hongna HUANG
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2026;42(1):125-133
ObjectiveTo investigate the inhibitory effect of Biejiajian Pills (BJJW) on the growth of liver cancer, as well as its potential mechanism in mediating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway through mitochondrial energy metabolism. MethodsHuman hepatoma Huh7 cells were used to establish a nude mouse model of subcutaneous xenograft tumor. A total of 18 tumor-bearing nude mice were randomly divided into model group, BJJW group (2.2 g/kg), and metformin group (250 mg/kg), and the corresponding drug was given by gavage for 14 consecutive days. Tumor volume and weight were monitored during the experiment; HE staining was used to observe histopathological changes; the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in tumor tissue were measured; immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were used to measure the expression levels of proteins associated with the AMPK/mTOR pathway. A one-way analysis of variance was used for comparison of normally distributed continuous data between multiple groups, and the Tukey’s test was used for further comparison between two groups; the Kruskal-Wallis H test was used for comparison of non-normally distributed continuous data between multiple groups, and the Dunn’s test was used for further comparison between two groups. ResultsCompared with the model group, the BJJW group had a tumor inhibition rate of 45.73%, with significant reductions in both tumor volume and weight (P<0.01). Pathological examination showed that compared with the model group, the BJJW group had a significant reduction in the number of tumor cells and the presence of extensive necrosis. Mechanistic studies showed that compared with the model group, the BJJW group had a significant increase in ROS level (P<0.001) and a significant reduction in ATP level (P<0.001), as well as significant increases in p-AMPK/AMPK ratio (0.81±0.20 vs 0.13±0.04, P<0.01) and p-ULK1/ULK1 ratio (0.69±0.17 vs 0.18±0.13, P<0.01) and a significant reduction in p-mTOR/mTOR ratio (1.34±0.16 vs 3.20±0.62, P<0.01). ConclusionBJJW may inhibit the growth of liver cancer by inducing mitochondrial energy metabolism dysfunction, increasing the level of ROS, reducing the level of ATP, and activating the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.


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