1.Current Status and Reflections on Key Technologies and Methods for Clinical Research Design and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Spleen and Stomach Diseases
Fang LU ; Ping WANG ; Liqun BIAN ; Lin LYU ; Mengli XIAO ; Tai ZHANG ; Xudong TANG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(5):498-503
Clinical trials represent a pivotal stage in the development of pharmaceutical drugs. Nevertheless, given the unique characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and the diagnostic and treatment principle of syndrome differentiation and treatment in TCM, the clinical evaluation techniques and methods that can comprehensively reflect the characteristics of TCM and are tailored to its specificities are still in need of refinement and innovation. This paper systematically summarizes the key techniques and methods for designing and evaluating the clinical research on the treatment of the spleen and stomach diseases with TCM from three aspects including clinical research design, evaluation, and platform construction, compares domestic and international research landscapes, and proposes for future directions. It is suggested that a multidimensional evaluation system integrating modern medicine and TCM theory should be established, and further innovation is needed in TCM research design and methodologies, leveraging intelligent devices and technologies powered by next-generation information technology to transform clinical data into high-quality TCM evidence. Moreover, standardized and shared platforms for TCM clinical data should be accelerated, so as to provide references for the design, implementation, and evaluation of future clinical research on the treatment of the spleen and stomach diseases with TCM.
2.Influence of Footwear on Foot Comfort of Workers Engaged in Prolonged Standing Occupations: A Systematic Review
Lu-ping KANG ; Tai-sheng GONG ; Xiao-hong QUAN ; Chen ZHANG
Safety and Health at Work 2026;17(1):24-32
Prolonged standing work can lead to various lower limb health issues. Footwear, as a convenient and noninvasive intervention, plays a key role in foot protection. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the impact of footwear characteristics on foot comfort among workers engaged in prolonged standing occupations. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library was conducted until March 2025 for experimental and observational studies; the review is registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD420251003253).Given the diversity of study designs, participant characteristics, and outcome measures, results were synthesized narratively, organizing findings by footwear design factors. The synthesis indicated that soft soles reduce foot impact and fatigue but offer limited support, whereas hard soles enhance stability but may cause localized pressure and discomfort. Sole hardness should balance cushioning and support based on activity: hard soles for standing and soft soles for walking. Insole hardness must be carefully considered as semirigid arch supports can cause discomfort. Most insoles improve pressure distribution by adjusting arch loading, and some enhance intrinsic foot muscles by promoting toe engagement, reducing leg swelling. Custom orthotic insoles outperform standard ones in comfort and balance. Future research should promote interdisciplinary collaboration with footwear designers to explore key design parameters and establish a scientific framework for protective footwear.
3.Kaixuan Jiedu Core Prescription Ameliorates Psoriasis Induced by IMQ Combined with Restraint Stress in Mice by Regulating Neuro-immune Axis and Inhibiting Skin Homing of Th17 Cells
Haoruo YANG ; Ningxin ZHANG ; Qiubai JIN ; Jiaqi LI ; Xue XIAO ; Meiqi SUN ; Bin YANG ; Ping SONG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(19):55-68
ObjectiveTo observe the effect and therapeutic effect of Kaixuan Jiedu core prescription (KXJD) on skin homing of Th17 cells in the mouse model of imiquimod (IMQ) combined with restraint stress-induced psoriasis-like skin damage, and to explore its potential mechanism from the perspective of neuro-immune axis. MethodsThirty male C57BL/6J mice were randomly allocated into five groups (n=6): Control, model (IMQ), restraint stress model (IMQ+RS), KXJD, and methotrexate (MTX). The mouse model of psoriasis-like skin damage was established by 5% IMQ combined with restraint stress. At the same time of modeling, each treatment group was treated with corresponding doses of drugs, and the control, IMQ, and IMQ+RS groups were treated with the same amount of normal saline by gavage once a day for 5 days. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological changes in the skin tissue and Baker scoring was performed. Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20), and C-C motif chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) in the skin tissue were determined. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was employed to determine the protein expression of cutaneous lymphocyte-associated antigen (CLA), integrin αE (CD103), cytokeratin 10 (CK10), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in the skin. Immunofluorescence double staining (DIF) was adopted to detect the expression and co-localization of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) and platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule (CD31), CCR6, CD103, substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) in the skin tissue. Real-time PCR was employed to quantify the mRNA levels of IL-10, IL-17A, and IL-23. ResultsCompared with the control group, the IMQ group and IMQ+RS group showed significant inflammatory cell infiltration, abnormal proliferation of epidermal cells, keratinization and other pathological changes in the skin tissue, and a significant increase in Baker score, elevated levels of IL-1β and Ang-2 in the serum and MMP-9, CCL20 and CCR6 in the skin lesions, upregulated expression of CLA, CD103, CK10, NF-κB, IL-17A mRNA, and IL-23 mRNA in the skin lesions, and downregulated expression of TIMP-1 and IL-10 mRNA. In addition, the fluorescence intensities of VE-cadherin and CD31 co-localization, CCR6 and CD103 co-localization, SP and PGP9.5 co-localization, and CGRP and PGP9.5 co-localization were increased (P<0.05). Compared with the IMQ group, the above indicators in the IMQ+RS group were further aggravated. Compared with the IMQ group, the above indicators in the IMQ+RS group were further aggravated. Compared with the IMQ+RS group, KXJD and MTX significantly alleviated the pathological damage of skin lesions, significantly decreased the Baker score, lowered the levels of IL-1β and Ang-2 in the serum and MMP-9, CCL20 and CCR6 in skin lesions, downregulated the expression of CLA, CD103, CK10, NF-κB, IL-17A mRNA and IL-23 mRNA in skin lesions, and upregulated the expression of TIMP-1 and IL-10 mRNA. Furthermore, KXJD and MTX reduced the fluorescence intensities of VE-cadherin and CD31 co-localization, CCR6 and CD103 co-localization, CGRP and PGP9.5 co-localization, and SP and PGP9.5 co-localization (P<0.05). ConclusionKXJD can significantly ameliorate the psoriasis-like skin damage induced by IMQ combined with restraint stress in mice by regulating the neural-immune axis and inhibiting the skin homing of Th17 cells.
4.Construction of Mouse Models of Psoriasis-like Lesions Induced by Cold Exposure Combined with Imiquimod and Evaluation of Therapeutic Efficacy of Kaixuan Jiedu Core Prescription
Meiqi SUN ; Xue XIAO ; Jiarong WU ; Jiaqi LI ; Ningxin ZHANG ; Mengyao JIANG ; Huan LIU ; Bin YANG ; Ping SONG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(19):69-78
ObjectiveTo establish the mouse models of psoriasis-like lesions induced by continuous cold exposure or intermittent cold exposure combined with imiquimod (IMQ), and to evaluate the interventional effects of Kaixuan Jiedu core prescription (KXJD) on the two models. MethodsMale C57BL/6J mice were selected and classified into two experimental batches. The first batch of 36 mice was randomized into a room temperature group, a continuous cold exposure (10 ℃/24 h) group, and an intermittent cold exposure (10 ℃/6 h) group. Each group was further divided into a normal subgroup and a model subgroup (topical application of IMQ to induce skin lesions), with 6 mice in each subgroup, for modeling and evaluation. The second batch of 54 mice, with 6 in each group, were subjected to the same temperature grouping with an additional KXJD (30.42 g·kg-1, continuous gavage for 5 days) group. Comprehensive evaluation of model characteristics and KXJD efficacy was conducted through Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scoring, skin temperature measurement by infrared thermography, histopathological observation by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, detection of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (CD31) by immunohistochemistry, detection of Claudin-1 and Occludin by immunofluorescence assay, determination of serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-10 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and quantification of mRNA levels of IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6, and chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20) in skin lesions by quantitative Real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR). ResultsModel mice in all temperature groups exhibited typical psoriasis-like skin lesions. Compared with the normal groups, the model groups showed increased PASI scores, decreased skin temperatures (P<0.05), obvious epidermal thickening, parakeratosis, and dermal inflammatory cell infiltration, as well as elevated mRNA levels of IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6, and CCL20 (P<0.05). Cold exposure further aggravated psoriasis. The total PASI score of the intermittent cold exposure model group was higher than that of the room temperature model group (P<0.05). The serum IL-10 did not show a compensatory elevation, and the blood vessels presented a characteristic of elevated CD31 expression (P<0.05) without a synchronous increase in VEGF. The continuous cold exposure model group exhibited more significant dermal capillary tortuosity and dilation, with the highest mRNA levels of IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6, and CCL20 among all groups. Compared with the respective model groups, KXJD intervention alleviated skin lesions, reduced epidermal thickness and inflammatory cell infiltration, and increased skin temperature, with the temperature increase being particularly significant in the intermittent cold exposure+KXJD group (P<0.05). Furthermore, KXJD down-regulated the expression of VEGF and CD31, restored the expression of Claudin-1 and Occludin, decreased the mRNA levels of IL-17A and IL-23 (P<0.05), and reduced the serum TNF-α level. ConclusionThis study successfully established compound psoriasis-like mouse models induced by cold exposure combined with IMQ. It confirms that cold aggravates the severity of psoriasis by exacerbating the closure of Xuanfu (sweat pores), microcirculation disorders, and immune imbalance. Moreover, different cold exposure patterns have distinct mechanism differences. Continuous cold exposure focuses on enhancing the inflammatory response via the IL-23/IL-17 axis and angiogenesis, simulating chronic aggravation under a long-term cold environment. Intermittent cold exposure tends to impair immune regulation and induce microvascular endothelial stress, corresponding to acute exacerbations caused by sudden temperature drops. KXJD can effectively alleviate psoriasis-like skin lesions under cold conditions by unblocking Xuanfu, regulating vasomotor function, and correcting abnormal immune-inflammatory responses.
5.Kaixuan Jiedu Core Prescription Alleviates Psoriatic Skin Lesions in Mice by Modulating Cold-sensitive TRPM8 Neuron-derived Signaling
Xue XIAO ; Bin YANG ; Meiqi SUN ; Haoruo YANG ; Ningxin ZHANG ; Jiaqi LI ; Huan LIU ; Mengyao JIANG ; Yuanyao SHE ; Ping SONG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(19):89-101
ObjectiveTo investigate the ameliorative effects of Kaixuan Jiedu core prescription (KXJD) on skin lesions in psoriasis-like mouse models under cold environment exposure, and to analyze its influences on transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and related neuroimmune regulatory factors. MethodsThirty-six C57BL/6J mice were randomized into 6 groups, with 6 mice in each group. Two feeding conditions were set: Normal temperature and cold [simulating a cold environment at (10±0.5) ℃, for 6 h daily]. Mice were induced to develop psoriasis-like lesions by applying imiquimod externally. The model mice were allocated into model groups and KXJD (30.42 g·kg-1, continuous gavage for 5 days) groups. Normal mice were used as the control group. Specifically, mice were allocated into normal temperature, normal temperature model, normal temperature+KXJD, cold exposure control, cold exposure model, and cold exposure+KXJD groups. The pathological changes in skin lesions were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The expression of cluster of differentiation (CD) 3+ T lymphocytes, CD11c+ dendritic cells (DCs), phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK), and substance P (SP) were detected by immunofluorescence assay. The protein level of transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member 8 (TRPM8) in the skin tissue was determined by Western blot. The expression of TRPM8, transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily A member 1 (TRPA1), and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 2 (TRPV2) at the protein and mRNA levels was determined by immunohistochemistry and Real-time PCR, respectively. The levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the serum were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and TRP pathway network construction were conducted based on the GEO database. The co-expression of TRPM8 and CGRP in the skin lesions was verified by immunofluorescence double labeling. ResultsBoth the normal temperature and cold exposure model groups showed typical psoriasis-like skin lesions. Compared with the normal temperature and cold exposure control groups, the model groups had excessive epidermal keratinization, thickened spinous layer, and inflammatory infiltration in the dermis, with increased pathological scores (P<0.05), increased infiltration of CD3+ and CD11c+ cells and expression of p-ERK and SP, upregulated mRNA levels of TRPM8, TRPA1, and TRPV2, downregulated mRNA level of TRPV1 (P<0.05), and reduced content of CGRP and increased content of NPY in the serum. Compared with the normal temperature and cold exposure model groups, KXJD reduced the pathological manifestations and pathological scores of psoriasis-like skin lesions (P<0.05), and inhibited the infiltration of CD3+ and CD11c+ cells and the expression of p-ERK and SP. Gene enrichment analysis suggested that the DEGs of psoriasis were significantly enriched in the interleukin (IL)-17 signaling pathway and TRP channel inflammatory regulation. Compared with the normal temperature and cold exposure model groups, KXJD reversed the abnormal mRNA levels of genes related to the TRP channel subfamilies (P<0.05), increased the CGRP level, and decreased the NPY level. Immunofluorescence double labeling further confirmed that compared with the model groups, KXJD down-regulated the co-expression of TRPM8 and CGRP in the skin lesions. ConclusionKXJD may ameliorate psoriasis-like skin lesions by downregulating the overexpressed cold-sensitive receptor TRPM8 in skin lesions and correcting the disorder of neuropeptide (such as SP and CGRP) release mediated by it, thereby inhibiting the IL-23/helper T cell 17 (Th17) core inflammatory pathway, suppressing the infiltration of inflammatory cells and the activation of the ERK signaling pathway, and regulating the Xuanfu (sweat pore)-TRPM8-neuroimmune response axis.
6.Mechanism of Kaixuan Jiedu Core Prescription in Ameliorating Psoriasis-like Inflammation via TrkA Receptor-mediated Regulation of CGRP Expression and Dendritic Cell Activation
Huan LIU ; Mengyao JIANG ; Jiaqi LI ; Meiqi SUN ; Xue XIAO ; Ningxin ZHANG ; Bin YANG ; Ping SONG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(19):102-110
ObjectiveTo investigate the ameliorative effects and mechanisms of Kaixuan Jiedu core prescription (KXJD) on neuroimmunological inflammation in imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mice. MethodsA total of 24 C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into four groups (n=6): Normal, model, KXJD, and tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) inhibitor GW441756 groups. The mice in the model, KXJD, and GW441756 groups were topically treated with 5% IMQ cream (62.5 mg·d-1) on the back to induce psoriasis-like inflammation. The KXJD group received KXJD by gavage (30.42 g·kg-1), the GW441756 group received intraperitoneal injection of GW441756 (10 mg·kg-1), and the normal and model groups received an equal volume of normal saline by gavage, with continuous intervention for 5 days. The severity of skin lesions was evaluated using the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to measure epidermal thickness and observe pathological changes in the lesioned skin. Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (Ki67) and interleukin-17A (IL-17A) in the lesioned skin. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify the levels of interleukin-23 (IL-23) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the lesioned tissues. Western blot was used to detect the expression of TrkA and phosphorylated TrkA (p-TrkA). Immunofluorescence assay was performed to detect the expression of TrkA receptor, protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), cluster of differentiation 11c (CD11c), and CGRP in the lesions. Flow cytometry was used to detect the activation of splenic dendritic cells (DCs). ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group exhibited typical psoriasis-like inflammation, characterized by erythema, infiltration and scaling, with histopathological findings of epidermal hyperkeratosis and acanthosis. The model group showed significantly increased expression of Ki67, IL-17A, IL-23 and p-TrkA (P<0.05, P<0.01), increased fluorescence intensity of CD11c, and significantly decreased CGRP expression (P<0.05). The splenic DC activation was significantly enhanced, as indicated by the increased mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of CD86 (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, both the KXJD and GW441756 groups showed amelioration of the psoriasis-like skin inflammation, with significantly down-regulated expression of IL-17A, IL-23 and p-TrkA (P<0.05, P<0.01), significantly up-regulated expression of CGRP (P<0.01), reduced CD11c+ DC infiltration, and restored splenic DC activation balance (down-regulated CD86 MFI and up-regulated CD80 and CD40 MFI). Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of KXJD on Ki67 was significantly superior to that of the GW441756 group (P<0.01). ConclusionKXJD may alleviate IMQ-induced psoriasis-like inflammation in mice by targeting and inhibiting TrkA receptor phosphorylation, regulating CGRP expression in the lesions, and ameliorating aberrant activation of dendritic cells, while also significantly inhibiting keratinocyte proliferation.
7.Kaixuan Jiedu Core Prescription Ameliorates Imiquimod-induced Psoriasis-like Skin Lesions in Mice by Inhibiting Neuroinflammation Mediated by NGF-TrkA/TRPV1-PAR-2 Signaling Pathway
Mengyao JIANG ; Jiaqi LI ; Huan LIU ; Xue XIAO ; Ningxin ZHANG ; Bin YANG ; Ping SONG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(19):111-119
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects and molecular mechanisms of Kaixuan Jiedu core prescription (KXJD) on neuroinflammation and immuno-inflammation in the mouse model of imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions by regulating the nerve growth factor (NGF)-tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA)/transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) signaling pathway. MethodsA psoriasis-like skin lesion model was established in male C57BL/6J mice with IMQ. A total of 24 mice were randomized into four groups (n=6 per group): Blank control, model, methotrexate (MTX, 1 mg·kg-1), and KXJD (30.42 g·kg-1). Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect the expression of cluster of differentiation 3 (CD3), EGF-like module-containing mucin-like hormone receptor-like 1 (F4/80), lymphocyte antigen 6 complex locus G (Ly-6G), substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), NGF, phosphorylated TrkA (p-TrkA), phosphorylated TRPV1 (p-TRPV1), and PAR-2 in skin lesions. Serum levels of interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and interleukin-23 (IL-23) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Immunofluorescence assay and Western blot were employed to determine the expression of phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-p38 MAPK) and phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB p65 (p-NF-κB p65). Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) was used to measure the mRNA levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1) in skin lesions. Correlation analysis was performed. ResultsCompared with the blank control group, the model group showed increased positive areas of CD3+, F4/80+, and Ly-6G+ in skin lesions (P<0.05), elevated serum levels of IL-17A and IL-23 (P<0.05), increased positive areas of SP and CGRP in skin lesions (P<0.05), increased positive areas of NGF, p-TrkA, p-TRPV1, and PAR-2 (P<0.05), elevated ratios of p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK and p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 (P<0.05), and upregulated mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF, IL-6, and CXCL1 (P<0.05). Compared with those in the model group, all the above indicators were reversed in the KXJD group (P<0.05). MTX only downregulated the expression of p-TRPV1 and PAR-2 (P<0.05), with no significant effects on the expression of NGF, p-TrkA, or CGRP. ConclusionKXJD inhibits the NGF-TrkA/TRPV1-PAR-2 signaling pathway to reduce neuropeptide release and simultaneously downregulates the p38 MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway and the expression of downstream pro-inflammatory factors to ameliorate psoriasis-like neuroinflammation and immuno-inflammation. The therapeutic effect of KXJD on psoriasis-like inflammation is closely associated with the inhibition of the NGF-TrkA/TRPV1-PAR-2 signaling pathway. This study provides experimental evidence for the modern interpretation of the Xuanfu theory.
8.Banxia Shumitang plus Zhizichi Tang Regulates PINK1/Parkin Signaling Pathway-mediated Mitochondrial Autophagy to Prevent and Treat Insomnia with Depression
Chunfeng XIAO ; Peishuai GONG ; Yini ZHANG ; Ping WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(20):33-46
ObjectiveTo investigate the effect and mechanism of Banxia Shumitang plus Zhizichi Tang (BZ) on PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin signaling pathway in regulating mitochondrial autophagy in preventing insomnia with depression. MethodsSeventy-two 6-week-old male Kunming mice were randomized into a normal group, a model group, low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose BZ groups (BZ-L, BZ-M, BZ-H, 2.92, 5.85, 11.7 g·kg-1), and an estazolam (0.21 mg·kg-1) group. Insomnia model was established on days 1 to 3. p-Chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 400 mg·kg-1 into mice of the model group and administration groups for 3 consecutive days. Then, the classic depression model was established with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 28 consecutive days. Administration and modeling were performed simultaneously. After gavage, 24 h spontaneous activity test was performed to test sleep state, and sugar preference test and open field test were performed to evaluate anxiety-like state. The morphological changes of the hypothalamus were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the number of Nissl bodies was observed by Nissl staining. The ultrastructure of mitochondria was observed by transmission electron microscopy. The mitochondrial membrane potential assay kit (JC-1) was used to examine the mitochondrial function, and a biochemical assay kit was used to measure the ATP content in the hypothalamus. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined by the immunofluorescence assay, and the serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), noradrenalin (NE), and cortisol (CORT) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot and Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) were employed to determine the expression of PINK1, Parkin, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), and isolator protein 1 (p62) at protein and mRNA levels, respectively. ResultsThe 24 h spontaneous activity test showed that compared with the normal group, the model group did not exhibit circadian rhythm characteristics in their spontaneous activity time, while the circadian rhythm characteristics were restored in each treatment group (P<0.05). The sucrose preference test indicated that compared with that in the normal group, the sucrose preference rate in the model group reduced (P<0.01), and compared with that in the model group, the sucrose preference rate in each treatment group increased (P<0.01). The open field test revealed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited decreased movement distance, average speed, frequency of visits to the central area, and time spent in the central area (P<0.01), and compared with those in the model group, these parameters in each treatment group increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). HE staining showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited disarrangement of neurons in the hypothalamus, enlarged intercellular space, and severe nuclear condensation, while the degree of hypothalamic neuronal damage in each treatment group was alleviated. Nissl staining indicated that compared with the normal group, the model group demonstrated aggravated neuronal damage and increased damaged cells (P<0.01). Compared with that in the model group, the number of damaged cells in each treatment group decreased (P<0.01). Transmission electron microscopy showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited mitochondrial swelling and rupture in the hypothalamus, with visible autophagic lysosomes in the cytoplasm. Compared with those in the model group, only a few autophagic lysosomes were observed in the BZ-L group, and the degree of mitochondrial swelling and rupture was alleviated in the other treatment groups. ROS immunofluorescence assay showed that compared with the normal group, the model group displayed enhanced red fluorescence intensity of mitochondrial ROS (P<0.01), which was attenuated in each treatment group (P<0.01). Mitochondrial membrane potential assay showed that compared with the normal group, the model group had declined mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.01), which was recovered in each treatment group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The biochemical assay of ATP levels indicated that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited decreased ATP content (P<0.01), which rebound in each treatment group (P<0.05, P<0.01). ELISA showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited decreased 5-HT content and increased NE and CORT content (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each treatment group showed increased 5-HT content (P<0.01) and reduced NE content (P<0.01) and CORT content (P<0.05, P<0.01). Western blot of the hypothalamus showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited downregulated protein levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.01) and upregulated protein level of p62 (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each treatment group showed upregulated protein levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.05, P<0.01) and downregulated protein level of p62 (P<0.05, P<0.01). Real-time PCR showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited downregulated mRNA levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.01) and upregulated mRNA level of p62 (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each treatment group showed upregulated mRNA levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.01) and downregulated mRNA level of p62 (P<0.01). ConclusionBZ can ameliorate the insomnia and anxiety state of mice by regulating PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway to improve the mitochondrial function, enhance mitochondrial autophagy, protect neurons, and repair damaged nerve cells.
9.Banxia Shumitang plus Zhizichi Tang Regulates PINK1/Parkin Signaling Pathway-mediated Mitochondrial Autophagy to Prevent and Treat Insomnia with Depression
Chunfeng XIAO ; Peishuai GONG ; Yini ZHANG ; Ping WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(20):33-46
ObjectiveTo investigate the effect and mechanism of Banxia Shumitang plus Zhizichi Tang (BZ) on PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin signaling pathway in regulating mitochondrial autophagy in preventing insomnia with depression. MethodsSeventy-two 6-week-old male Kunming mice were randomized into a normal group, a model group, low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose BZ groups (BZ-L, BZ-M, BZ-H, 2.92, 5.85, 11.7 g·kg-1), and an estazolam (0.21 mg·kg-1) group. Insomnia model was established on days 1 to 3. p-Chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 400 mg·kg-1 into mice of the model group and administration groups for 3 consecutive days. Then, the classic depression model was established with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 28 consecutive days. Administration and modeling were performed simultaneously. After gavage, 24 h spontaneous activity test was performed to test sleep state, and sugar preference test and open field test were performed to evaluate anxiety-like state. The morphological changes of the hypothalamus were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the number of Nissl bodies was observed by Nissl staining. The ultrastructure of mitochondria was observed by transmission electron microscopy. The mitochondrial membrane potential assay kit (JC-1) was used to examine the mitochondrial function, and a biochemical assay kit was used to measure the ATP content in the hypothalamus. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined by the immunofluorescence assay, and the serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), noradrenalin (NE), and cortisol (CORT) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot and Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) were employed to determine the expression of PINK1, Parkin, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), and isolator protein 1 (p62) at protein and mRNA levels, respectively. ResultsThe 24 h spontaneous activity test showed that compared with the normal group, the model group did not exhibit circadian rhythm characteristics in their spontaneous activity time, while the circadian rhythm characteristics were restored in each treatment group (P<0.05). The sucrose preference test indicated that compared with that in the normal group, the sucrose preference rate in the model group reduced (P<0.01), and compared with that in the model group, the sucrose preference rate in each treatment group increased (P<0.01). The open field test revealed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited decreased movement distance, average speed, frequency of visits to the central area, and time spent in the central area (P<0.01), and compared with those in the model group, these parameters in each treatment group increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). HE staining showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited disarrangement of neurons in the hypothalamus, enlarged intercellular space, and severe nuclear condensation, while the degree of hypothalamic neuronal damage in each treatment group was alleviated. Nissl staining indicated that compared with the normal group, the model group demonstrated aggravated neuronal damage and increased damaged cells (P<0.01). Compared with that in the model group, the number of damaged cells in each treatment group decreased (P<0.01). Transmission electron microscopy showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited mitochondrial swelling and rupture in the hypothalamus, with visible autophagic lysosomes in the cytoplasm. Compared with those in the model group, only a few autophagic lysosomes were observed in the BZ-L group, and the degree of mitochondrial swelling and rupture was alleviated in the other treatment groups. ROS immunofluorescence assay showed that compared with the normal group, the model group displayed enhanced red fluorescence intensity of mitochondrial ROS (P<0.01), which was attenuated in each treatment group (P<0.01). Mitochondrial membrane potential assay showed that compared with the normal group, the model group had declined mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.01), which was recovered in each treatment group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The biochemical assay of ATP levels indicated that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited decreased ATP content (P<0.01), which rebound in each treatment group (P<0.05, P<0.01). ELISA showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited decreased 5-HT content and increased NE and CORT content (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each treatment group showed increased 5-HT content (P<0.01) and reduced NE content (P<0.01) and CORT content (P<0.05, P<0.01). Western blot of the hypothalamus showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited downregulated protein levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.01) and upregulated protein level of p62 (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each treatment group showed upregulated protein levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.05, P<0.01) and downregulated protein level of p62 (P<0.05, P<0.01). Real-time PCR showed that compared with the normal group, the model group exhibited downregulated mRNA levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.01) and upregulated mRNA level of p62 (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, each treatment group showed upregulated mRNA levels of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3 (P<0.01) and downregulated mRNA level of p62 (P<0.01). ConclusionBZ can ameliorate the insomnia and anxiety state of mice by regulating PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway to improve the mitochondrial function, enhance mitochondrial autophagy, protect neurons, and repair damaged nerve cells.
10.Effects of Different Modes in Hypoxic Training on Metabolic Improvements in Obese Individuals: a Systematic Review With Meta-analysis on Randomized Controlled Trail
Jie-Ping WANG ; Xiao-Shi LI ; Ru-Wen WANG ; Yi-Yin ZHANG ; Feng-Zhi YU ; Ru WANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(6):1587-1604
This paper aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of hypoxic training at different fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) on body composition, glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism in obese individuals, and to determine the optimal oxygen concentration range to provide scientific evidence for personalized and precise hypoxic exercise prescriptions. A systematic search was conducted in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and CNKI databases for randomized controlled trials and pre-post intervention studies published up to March 31, 2025, involving hypoxic training interventions in obese populations. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software to assess the effects of different fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2≤14% vs. FiO2>14%) on BMI, body fat percentage, waist circumference, fasting blood glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), with subgroup analyses based on oxygen concentration. A total of 22 studies involving 292 participants were included. Meta-analysis showed that hypoxic training significantly reduced BMI (mean difference (MD)=-2.29,95%CI: -3.42 to -1.17, P<0.000 1), body fat percentage (MD=-2.32, 95%CI: -3.16 to -1.47, P<0.001), waist circumference (MD=-3.79, 95%CI: -6.73 to -0.85, P=0.01), fasting blood glucose (MD=-3.58, 95%CI: -6.23 to -0.93, P=0.008), insulin (MD=-1.60, 95%CI: -2.98 to -0.22, P=0.02), TG (MD=-0.18, 95%CI: -0.25 to -0.12, P<0.001), and LDL-C (MD=-0.25, 95%CI: -0.39 to -0.11, P=0.000 3). Greater improvements were observed under moderate hypoxic conditions with FiO2>14%. Changes in HOMA-IR (MD=-0.74, 95%CI: -1.52 to 0.04,P=0.06) and HDL-C (MD=-0.09, 95%CI: -0.21 to 0.02, P=0.11) were not statistically significant. Hypoxic training can significantly improve body composition, glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism indicators in obese individuals, with greater benefits observed under moderate hypoxia (FiO>14%). As a key parameter in hypoxic exercise interventions, the precise setting of oxygen concentration is crucial for optimizing intervention outcomes.

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