1.Molecular Crosstalk Mechanisms of Shoutai Wan and Juyuan Jian on Maternal-fetal Interface Subcellular Clusters in CBA/J×DBA/2 Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Model
Jingxin GAO ; Qiuping CHEN ; Xiaoyan ZHENG ; Pengfei ZENG ; Rui ZHOU ; Yancai TANG ; Qian ZENG ; Wenli GUO ; Jinzhu HUANG ; Weijun DING ; Linwen DENG ; Hang ZHOU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(2):70-87
ObjectiveTo systematically compare the differential regulation of the maternal-fetal interface cell lineages and communication networks in the CBA/J×DBA/2 mouse model of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) by the two classic therapeutic methods-tonifying the kidney to stabilize the fetus and invigorating the spleen to stabilize the fetus (Shoutai Wan, Juyuan Jian)-of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) at the single-cell resolution and clarify their modern scientific connotations. MethodsFemale non-pregnant CBA/J mice were caged with male BALB/c (blank group) and DBA/2 (modeling group) mice separately. Pregnant mice in the modeling group were randomly grouped as follows: high/low-dose Shoutai Wan, high/low-dose Juyuan Jian, model (RPL), and positive control (dydrogesterone), with 10 mice in each group. Starting from the day after the detection of the vaginal plug, mice were administrated with drugs or an equal volume of normal saline by gavage for 10 consecutive days. After the intervention, the following indicators were measured. ① Macroscopic evaluation: general conditions, uterine wet weight, embryo loss rate, four coagulation parameters [prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (FIB), and thrombin time (TT)], and peripheral blood estradiol (E2) and progesterone (Pg) levels. The decidua with embryos was stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), CXC chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 homolog (LC3)Ⅰ/Ⅱ was quantified by Western blot. ② Mechanism analysis at the single-cell level: The decidua with embryos from the blank, model, high-dose Shoutai Wan, and high-dose Juyuan Jian groups (6 mice per group, with 3 single-cell samples per group, totaling 24 mice) were analyzed by the BD Rhapsody™ platform, and the whole-cell atlas was drawn by uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) dimensionality reduction clustering combined with the single-cell mouse cell atlas (scMCA). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and cell interaction networks were analyzed via Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and CellChat, and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) map of subtype cells was constructed. The CytoTRACE pseudo-temporal analysis was performed to explore the developmental trajectories of core immune cells (natural killer cells, NK cells) from maternal and fetal sources. Results① Pathological and Western blot results indicated that compared with the blank group, the RPL group showed an increase in the embryo loss rate (P<0.01), down-regulated expression of Bcl-2, LIF, MMP-2, and Vegf in the decidua with embryos (P<0.05), up-regulated protein levels of CXCL-12, AngⅡ, and IL-6 (P<0.05), blocked angiogenesis, apoptosis-inflammation imbalance, and coagulation dysfunction. Both prescriptions dose-dependently reduced the abortion rate and restored the angiogenesis-inflammation balance, and Shoutai pill showed superior performance in restoring the E2 level to the Pg level (P<0.05). ② Single-cell transcriptome analysis indicated that compared with the blank group, the RPL group showed differences in multiple key cell populations such as decidual cells, trophoblast cells, endothelial cells, erythroblasts, NK cells, and macrophages at the maternal-fetal interface. Immunity and angiogenesis were the key links in RPL. Compared with the RPL group, high-dose Shoutai Wan reversed the changes of NK cells in the embryonic layer (upregulating the mRNA levels of 17 genes and downregulating the mRNA levels of 29 genes) and macrophages (upregulating the mRNA levels of 117 genes and downregulating the mRNA levels of 53 genes) through the regulation of gene expression. High-dose Shoutai pill regulated the immune cells to affect unfolded proteins, cell adhesion, and programmed cell death, thereby promoting decidualization and angiogenesis and modulating embryo-membrane development. High-dose Juyuan Jian regulated the key subgroups of NK cells (up-regulating the mRNA levels of 9 genes and down-regulating the mRNA levels of 17 genes) and macrophages (up-regulating the mRNA levels of 110 genes and down-regulating the mRNA levels of 81 genes), which affected decidual inflammation and apoptosis and intervened in glycolysis. ③ The pseudo-temporal analysis and communication network indicated that the communication frequency of the RPL group decreased. High-dose Shoutai Wan restored maternal-fetal tolerance through pathways such as NKG2D, CDH5, GDF, and FASLG. High-dose Juyuan Jian enhanced the IL-6/LIFR/JAK/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and desmosome/SEMA6/tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) signaling to improve endometrial receptivity. The RPL group showed an increased proportion of toxic dNK7, a decreased proportion of reparative dNK4, and blocked embryo fNK1. High-dose Shoutai Wan down-regulated dNK7 and up-regulated dNK4. High-dose Juyuan Jian inhibited the terminal differentiation of dNK7 and up-regulated LILRB1, thus restoring the balance of cytotoxicity and repair. ConclusionBoth the kidney-tonifying and spleen-invigorating methods are effective in treating RPL. NK and macrophages are the key immune cells in the interaction between the embryo and the membrane. The kidney-tonifying method (Shoutai Wan) has an advantage in regulating the phenotypes of unfolded protein, cell adhesion, and programmed cell death, and shows expression characteristics closer to the physiological state in the regulation of NKG2D and CDH5 signals. The spleen-invigorating method (Juyuan Jian) has an advantage in regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and glycolysis and shows higher communication intensity in the IL-6 and LIFR pathways.
2.Ancient and Modern Application and Key Information Analysis of Classic Formula Erchentang
Qing TANG ; Lyuyuan LIANG ; Jialei CAO ; Lan LIU ; Hejia WAN ; Chengxin LUO ; Bingqi WEI ; Yamin KONG ; Bingxiang MA ; Wenli SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(1):262-270
Erchentang is a classic formula widely used by medical practitioners throughout history. In this paper,ancient and modern literature of Erchentang were collected, and bibliometrics was employed to analyze its historic evolution,prescription meaning,herbs origin, processing method,preparation methods, and clinical application. A total of 84 pieces of data were collected, and 58 pieces of data involving 53 ancient medical Chinese books were screened, sorted, and processed. Combined with research of modern scholars,the research has found that the Erchentang originated from the Taiping Huimin Huiye Shijie Fang compiled by the Imperial Medical Bureau of the Song Dynasty. The basic information about the origin of the drugs is quite clear. Pinelliae rhizoma in the formula is the dried tuber of Pinellia ternata. Citri exocarpium rubrum is the dried mature peel of Citrus reticulata and its cultivated varieties, with the inner white membrane removed. Poria is the whitest dry sclerotia of Poria cocos; Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma is the dried root and rhizome of the Glycyrrhiza uralensis. The dosage is 5.70 g Pinelliae rhizome and Citri exocarpium rubrum, 3.43 g Poria, and 1.69 g Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma praeparata cum melle. During the decoction process, the above-mentioned herbs should be chopped, with 300 mL water, 7 g ginger in thick slices, and 2 g Mume fructus added, and it was then simmered together to 180 mL. After removing the medicinal residue, it can be taken warmly. Erchentang has the effect of drying dampness and resolving phlegm, regulating Qi and harmonizing the middle. It can be used in treating the syndrome of phlegm and dampness,as well as symptoms such as frequent cough,white phlegm,fullness in chest and diaphragm,nausea and vomiting,limb drowsiness,anorexia,dizziness,palpitations,white and greasy tongue coating, and slippery pulse. The above results provide reference for future research and development of Erchentang.
3.Quality Evaluation on Xuanmai Ganjie Preparation Based on National Drug Sampling and Testing
Jingyun LI ; Liang HU ; Jiangnan LUO ; Yinghong WANG ; Xunyou TANG ; Sheng LIANG ; Liqin ZHAN ; Jingkai ZENG ; Yan LUO ; Hui SUN ; Ye DING ; Wenli LI ; Jialiang ZHU
Herald of Medicine 2025;44(10):1606-1611
Objective Based on the national drug sampling inspection program,this study aims to comprehensively and systematically evaluate the quality of Xuanmai Ganjie preparations,analyze existing quality issues,and provide references and suggestions for quality control of this variety.Methods A total of 237 batches of Xuanmai Ganjie preparations were tested using legal standards,and methods were established for detecting adulteration of Ophiopogon japonicus with counterfeit varieties,paclobutrazol residue levels,and determining the content of platycodin D in Xuanmai Ganjie preparations.These methods were applied to the quality control and evaluation of Xuanmai Ganjie preparations.Results Through statutory inspection,one batch of Xuanmai Ganjie granules was found non-compliant.Specific batches were identified to contain the following irregularities:adulteration of Ophiopogon japonicus with counterfeit varieties,paclobutrazol residue levels exceeding proposed limits,and platycodin D content below the established threshold.Conclusion The overall quality of Xuanmai Ganjie granules was average,while the overall quality of Xuanmai Ganjie capsules and lozenges was relatively good.Manufacturing enterprises should strengthen their sense of primary responsibility and enhance control over the entire drug production process.
4.Clinical case analysis of an autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy
Xiaoyan WANG ; Zhong ZHAO ; Wenli CHEN ; Niya WANG ; Hao TANG
Chinese Journal of Immunology 2025;41(7):1768-1771
Objective:To summarize the clinical characteristics of autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy(GFAP-A),in order to improve the understanding of the disease among clinical physicians.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical manifestations,imaging examination,laboratory examination of a patient with GFAP-A who was admitted to the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province and diagnosed on May 11,2023.Results:A female patient with GFAP-A,aged 67 years,presented with meningoencephalomyelitis.The head MRI showed abnormalities,with extensive lesions in the bilateral basal ganglia,pons,and lateral paraventricular white matter areas,and enhancement of the lateral ventricular ependyma and pia mater.Long segment spinal cord abnormal signals were observed,and cerebrospinal fluid anti GFAP antibodies were positive.After hormone treatment,the prognosis was good,and there was no recurrence during follow-up.Conclusion:The main clinical manifestations of GFAP-A are acute or subacute onset meningitis and/or encephalitis,myelitis and meningitis.Detection of autoimmune antibodies in ce-rebrospinal fluid can provide a clear diagnosis,and timely treatment can improve prognosis.
5.Comparison of efficacy of transpulmnary pressure and driving pressure in guiding lung-protective ventilation strategies for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Yaoyao TANG ; Yan LI ; Wenli MENG ; Zhiyong WANG ; Mingxing FANG
Chinese Journal of Anesthesiology 2025;45(4):458-462
Objective:To compare the efficacy of transpulmonary pressure (Ptp) and driving pressure (DP) in guiding lung-protective ventilation strategies in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).Methods:In this randomized controlled trial, 22 ARDS patients of either sex, aged 18-80 yr, with a body mass index of 18-30 kg/m 2, were divided into 2 groups ( n=11 each) using a random number table method: Ptp group and DP group. DP group received a tidal volume of 4-6 ml/kg with a plateau pressure<30 cmH 2O (1 cm H 2O=0.098 kPa) and driving pressure<16 cmH 2O. In Ptp group, the positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and tidal volume were adjusted to maintain end-inspiratory Ptp <25 cmH 2O and end-expiratory Ptp 0-5 cmH 2O based on the setting mentioned in DP group. Oxygenation index, PEEP, plateau pressure, central venous pressure, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, parameters of liver and kidney function, mechanical ventilation duration, and the mortality in the intensive care unit were recorded on admission to the operating room and at 24 and 48 h after treatment. Results:Compared to DP group, significant changes were found in the main effects of oxygenation indices and time effects in Ptp group, and significant changes were found in the main effect of PEEP, with mean arterial pressure increasing ( P<0.05), and no significant differences were observed in the other parameters regarding group effects, time effects, or interactions in PEEP group ( P>0.05). Conclusions:Ptp provides a superior efficacy than DP in guiding lung-protective ventilation strategies for the patients with ARDS.
6.Differences in dynamic stability across different height barriers between obese and average men
Wenli ZHANG ; Ziqi ZHAO ; Leichao LIANG ; Yunqi TANG ; Yong WANG
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2025;29(11):2319-2326
BACKGROUND:Obesity negatively affects dynamic balance during walking,and crossing barriers is a more routine functional activity that requires more stability in controlling body posture. OBJECTIVE:To investigate the differences in dynamic stability between obese and average males,and to assess the balance ability of obese males using a relatively more challenging obstacle crossing. METHODS:A total of 24 male youths(12 each in the obese and normal groups)were recruited to complete the tests of walking on level ground and crossing obstacles of different heights(4 cm,11 cm,15 cm)in random order.Kinematic and dynamic data were collected using the Qualisys motion capture system and Kistler force stage.Statistical analysis was performed using two-factor(2 groups * 4 movement types)repeated measures analysis of variance. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:The obese group had a lower step speed than the normal group(P<0.05),the proportion of the first single support period decreased and the proportion of the second double support period increased when crossing the 11 cm versus 15 cm hurdles(P<0.05).When walking on level ground,the margin of stability in the internal and external directions in the normal group was greater than that of the obese group(P<0.05).When crossing the 4 cm hurdles,the margin of stability in the obese group was less than that in the normal group(P<0.05).When crossing the 11 cm hurdles,there was no significant difference between the two groups in the anterior-posterior direction(P>0.05),while there was a significant difference in the internal-external direction(P<0.05).When crossing the 15 cm hurdles,the margin of stability in the obese group was lower than that in the normal group(P<0.05).Overall,obesity decreases the body's ability to control the body,reduces dynamic stability during crossing the barrier,and increases the risk of falls compared with the general population.In addition,compared with level ground walking,the decrease in the dynamic stability when crossing barriers is more significant in the obese group than the general population.
7.Puerarin inhibits expression of macrophage NLRP3 inflammasome to alleviate ulcerative colitis and preliminary analysis of its mechanism
Xin ZHAO ; Xutao CHEN ; Xingyu LU ; Wenli DAN ; Guojun GAO ; Kang TANG ; Lihua CHEN
Chinese Journal of Immunology 2025;41(4):775-782
Objective:To investigate the effect of natural plant compound puerarin(PUE)on expression of NLRP3 inflamma-some in macrophages and its effect in ulcerative colitis(UC)in mice.Methods:A mouse model of UC was established using dextran sulfate sodium(DSS).Mice received PUE via gavage for 7 consecutive days,body weight,disease activity index and colon length were measured.HE staining was performed to assess tissue pathological damage.Flow cytometry was used to determine the proportion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in colonic lamina propria.Immunofluorescence was employed to assess the colocalization of NLRP3 inflammasome and macrophages.qRT-PCR was conducted to measure mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and NLRP3-related genes in colonic tissues.Protein expression levels of ZO-1,Occludin,cleaved caspase-1 and IL-1β in colonic tissues were detected by Western blot.A cell model was established using lipopolysaccharide(LPS)and adenosine triphosphate(ATP).mRNA expression levels of genes related to NLRP3 inflammasome were detected by qRT-PCR.Western blot was used to detect effects of PUE on expression levels of proteins related to NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathway.Results:PUE treatment signifi-cantly improved symptoms of DSS-induced UC in mice,including body weight,disease index,colon length and pathological damage.Following PUE intervention,infiltration of Ly6C+MHC Ⅱ-monocyte derived macrophages in the colonic lamina propria was reduced.Expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and NLRP3 inflammasome related molecules in colonic tissues were decreased.PUE treatment increased expression levels of ZO-1 and Occludin in intestinal epithelial cells.In vitro experiments confirmed that PUE reduced expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome-related molecules in macrophages induced by LPS combined with ATP,as well as protein expression level of p-NF-κB p65.Conclusion:PUE significantly alleviates the symptoms of UC by reducing intestinal tissue inflamma-tion and repairing the epithelial barrier.The mechanism may involve regulating NF-κB signaling pathway,thereby reducing the forma-tion and activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages.
8.Quality Evaluation on Xuanmai Ganjie Preparation Based on National Drug Sampling and Testing
Jingyun LI ; Liang HU ; Jiangnan LUO ; Yinghong WANG ; Xunyou TANG ; Sheng LIANG ; Liqin ZHAN ; Jingkai ZENG ; Yan LUO ; Hui SUN ; Ye DING ; Wenli LI ; Jialiang ZHU
Herald of Medicine 2025;44(10):1606-1611
Objective Based on the national drug sampling inspection program,this study aims to comprehensively and systematically evaluate the quality of Xuanmai Ganjie preparations,analyze existing quality issues,and provide references and suggestions for quality control of this variety.Methods A total of 237 batches of Xuanmai Ganjie preparations were tested using legal standards,and methods were established for detecting adulteration of Ophiopogon japonicus with counterfeit varieties,paclobutrazol residue levels,and determining the content of platycodin D in Xuanmai Ganjie preparations.These methods were applied to the quality control and evaluation of Xuanmai Ganjie preparations.Results Through statutory inspection,one batch of Xuanmai Ganjie granules was found non-compliant.Specific batches were identified to contain the following irregularities:adulteration of Ophiopogon japonicus with counterfeit varieties,paclobutrazol residue levels exceeding proposed limits,and platycodin D content below the established threshold.Conclusion The overall quality of Xuanmai Ganjie granules was average,while the overall quality of Xuanmai Ganjie capsules and lozenges was relatively good.Manufacturing enterprises should strengthen their sense of primary responsibility and enhance control over the entire drug production process.
9.Textual Research and Ancient and Modern Application of Classical Prescription Sinisan
Lyuyuan LIANG ; Qing TANG ; Jialei CAO ; Wenxi WEI ; Yuxin ZHANG ; Jinyu CHEN ; Hejia WAN ; Chen CHEN ; Ruiting SU ; Bingqi WEI ; Shen'ao DING ; Bingxiang MA ; Wenli SHI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(18):182-193
Sinisan is a classical prescription developed and applied by ancient medical experts and it is first recorded in the Treatise on Cold Damage written by ZHANG Zhongjing in the Eastern Han Dynasty. Later physicians have modified this prescription based on this original one. The bibliometrics methods were used to analyze the key information and research trend of Sinisan. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 69 pieces of effective data were extracted, involving 67 ancient traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) books. The results showed that the name, composition, and decocting methods of Sinisan in later generations were inherited from the original record in the Treatise on Cold Damage. The original plants of medicinal materials used in Sinisan are basically clear. We recommend Bupleuri Radix as the dried root of Bupleurem scorzonerifolium, Paeoniae Radix Alba as the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora, Aurantii Fructus as the dried fruit of Citrus aurantium, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma as the dry root and rhizome of Glycyrrhiza uralensis. Raw materials of Bupleuri Radix and Paeoniae Radix Alba, Aurantii Fructus stir-fried with bran, and stir-fried Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma should be used for preparation of Sinisan. According to measurement system in the Han Dynasty, a bag of Sinisan is composed of 1.25 g Bupleuri Radix, 1.25 g Paeoniae Radix Alba, 1.25 g Aurantii Fructus, and 1.25 g Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma. The materials should be grounded into coarse powder and taken with a proper amount of rice soup, 3 times a day. Sinisan has the effects of regulating qi movement and harmonizing the liver and spleen. It can be used for treating reversal cold in limbs and cold damage. In modern clinical practice, Sinisan can be used to treat chronic gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and dyspepsia. The above research results provide scientific reference for the future research and development of Sinisan.
10.Key Information Research and Ancient and Modern Application Analysis of Classic Prescription Houpo Sanwutang
Wenli SHI ; Qing TANG ; Huimin CHEN ; Jialei CAO ; Bingqi WEI ; Lan LIU ; Keke LIU ; Yun ZHANG ; Yujie CHANG ; Yihan LI ; Jingwen LI ; Bingxiang MA ; Lvyuan LIANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(20):214-221
Houpo Sanwutang, included in the Catalogue of Ancient Classical Prescriptions (Second Batch), was first recorded in the Synopsis of Golden Chamber written by ZHANG Zhongjing from the Eastern Han dynasty and was modified by successive generations of medical experts. A total of 37 pieces of effective data involving 37 ancient Chinese medical books were retrieved from different databases. Through literature mining, statistical analysis, and data processing, combined with modern articles, this study employed bibliometrics to investigate the historical origin, composition, decoction methods, clinical application, and other key information. The results showed that the medicinal origin of Houpo Sanwutang was clearly documented in classic books. Based on the conversion of the measurements from the Han Dynasty, it is recommended that 110.4 g Magnolia Officinalis Cortex, 55.2 g Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, and 72 g Aurantii Fructus Immaturus should be taken. Magnolia Officinalis Cortex and Aurantii Fructus Immaturus should be decocted with 2 400 mL water first, and 1 000 mL should be taken from the decocted liquid. Following this, Rhei Radix et Rhizoma should be added for further decoction, and then 600 mL should be taken from the decocted liquid. A single dose of administration is 200 mL, and the medication can be stopped when patients restore smooth bowel movement. Houpo Sanwutang has the effect of moving Qi, relieving stuffiness and fullness, removing food stagnation, and regulating bowels. It can be used in treating abdominal distending pain, guarding, constipation, and other diseases with the pathogenesis of stagnated heat and stagnated Qi in the stomach. The above results provide reference for the future development and research of Houpo Sanwutang.

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