1.Correlation between gut microbiota metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide and total imaging burden in diabetic patients with CSVD
Pan WANG ; Jingyu DENG ; Yunuo CHEN ; Yachen SHI ; Min XU ; Xiangming FANG ; Feng WANG ; Guangjun XI
Chinese Journal of Geriatric Heart Brain and Vessel Diseases 2025;27(10):1309-1312
Objective To investigate the association between gut microbiota metabolite,trimethy-lamine-N-oxide(TMAO),and total imaging burden in diabetic patients with cerebral small vessel disease(CSVD).Methods A prospective study was conducted on 112 elderly diabetic patients with CSVD admitted in our hospital from June 2022 to May 2024.According to the total imaging burden score,they were divided into a high burden group(burden score≥2,57 cases)and a low burden group(burden score<2,55 cases).High-performance liquid chromatography with online electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry was applied to detect the plasma level of TMAO.Then based on the tertile of plasma TMAO level,the patients were also assigned into low(<2.44 μmol/L,38 cases),median(2.44 μmol/L≤TMAO<5.18 μmol/L,37 cases)and high TMAO(≥5.18 μmol/L,37 cases)groups.ROC curve analysis was used to assess the predictive value of plasma TMAO level for high imaging burden in diabetic patients with CSVD.Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to analyze the correlation between plasma TMAO level and high imaging burden.Results The high burden group exhibited significantly higher plasma TMAO level than the low burden group(P=0.002).The AUC value of plasma TMAO level in predicting high imaging burden was 0.669(95%CI:0.569-0.769,P=0.002).The percentage of high imaging burden was 34.2%,54.1%and 64.9%,respectively among the low,median and high TMAO groups,with significant differences among them(Chi-square=7.270,P=0.026).Binary logistic regression analysis indicated the correlation between TMAO and high imaging burden(OR=1.178,95%CI:1.019-1.364,P=0.027).Conclusion In elderly diabetic patients with CSVD,plasma TMAO level is closely associated with high imaging burden,with higher TMAO level,higher risk for high imaging burden.
2.Application value of one-hour post-load glucose ≥8.6 mmol/L during oral glucose tolerance test in detecting prediabetes
Xin CHAI ; Dongli ZHU ; Yachen WANG ; Di LI ; Kaipeng LIANG ; Chunyu YANG ; Jinping WANG ; Zhiwei YANG ; Ruitai SHAO ; Qiuhong GONG ; Juan ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;59(6):925-932
Objective:To assess the application value of one-hour post-load glucose (1hPG) for detecting prediabetes among individuals with high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods:The study was conducted between August 2023 and January 2024, and individuals with a high risk of T2DM were invited to receive an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), structural questionnaires, physical measurements, and other biochemical examinations. The fasting, one-, and two-hour glucose and insulin were tested. According to the 1hPG cut point on hyperglycemia suggested by International Diabetes Federation (IDF), normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and prediabetes were further divided into two subgroups, respectively, i.e., NGT with 1hPG<8.6 mmol/L (NGT-1hPG-normal), NGT with 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L (NGT-1hPG-high), prediabetes with 1hPG<8.6 mmol/L (PDM-1hPG-normal), and prediabetes with 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L (PDM-1hPG-high). The insulin release curve was drawn by the groups as above. Insulin resistance was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and β-cell secretory function was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment for β cell function (HOMA-β)/HOMA-IR. Spearman rank correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation coefficients among 1hPG, 2hPG and HOMA indices, and Steiger′s Z test was used to compare the difference between two correlation coefficients. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess the accuracy of 1hPG for detecting prediabetes. Results:A total of 2 469 subjects consisting of 1 485 men (60.1%) and 984 (39.9%) women, with a mean age of (45.76±6.20) years, of which 1 844 (74.7%) had 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L. The prevalence of 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L was 46.8%, 93.0% and 99.8% in individuals with NGT, prediabetes and newly diagnosed T2DM, respectively ( χ 2=763.78, P<0.001). The insulin release curve showed that insulin secretion increased rapidly in subjects with NGT-1hPG-high, and peaked at one hour, then decreased rapidly, with a significantly higher level of one- and two-hour insulin than those with NGT-1hPG-normal ( P<0.001). Compared to individuals with NGT-1hPG-normal, the counterparts with NGT-1hPG-high exhibited higher HOMA-IR and lower adjusted HOMA-β ( P<0.001). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that the correlation coefficient of 1hPG with HOMA-IR was similar to the correlation coefficient of 2hPG with HOMA-IR (0.493 vs. 0.480, P=0.550), while the correlation of 1hPG with adjusted HOMA-β was significantly stronger than that of 2hPG (-0.692 vs. -0.587, P<0.001). Excluding patients with T2DM, according to the cut point recommended by IDF, the AUC of 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L for detecting prediabetes was 0.731 (95% CI: 0.714-0.748), and the sensitivity and specificity were 0.930 and 0.532, respectively, with the kappa value of 0.45. Conclusion:1hPG is closely related to insulin resistance and islet function, and there′s substantial value for individuals with a high risk of T2DM to detect prediabetes by using the 1hPG cut points recommended by IDF.
3.Progress in role of joint barrier dysfunction in joint diseases
Rui PENG ; Xingsheng ZHA ; Yachen PENG ; Huantian ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Pathophysiology 2025;41(7):1442-1448
Joint diseases have traditionally been linked to cartilage degeneration and inflammation,often ne-glecting the vital role of the joint barrier.This review introduces the novel concept of the"joint barrier"as an essential ana-tomical and functional unit in maintaining joint homeostasis.We systematically elucidate its structural components and functional characteristics,underscoring how dysfunction of the joint barrier contributes to the pathogenesis of various joint diseases.This perspective provides fresh insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.We highlight cutting-edge findings on the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying joint barrier imbalance,focusing on epigenetic modifications,metabolic reprogramming,and intercellular communication networks.These discoveries establish a new framework for understanding joint pathology and identifying innovative intervention strategies.Additionally,we propose forward-thinking research directions with significant translational potential,including exploring the association between im-mune components and synovial barrier function,developing novel drugs targeting the barrier microenvironment,and inves-tigating the regulatory mechanisms of joint barrier imbalance influenced by systemic factors.These strategies promise to revolutionize the diagnosis,treatment,and prevention of joint diseases.By integrating the latest research and proposing fu-ture directions,this review offers a comprehensive understanding of joint barrier disorders and their implications for joint diseases,paving the way for new therapeutic approaches and concepts in the field.
4.Mechanism of nodakenin in relieving neuropathic pain
Hongyan LIU ; Yachen LI ; Gege SHENG ; Haili ZHU ; Jiliang WU
Tianjin Medical Journal 2025;53(1):35-41
Objective To investigate the effect and mechanism of nodakenin(Nod)in neuropathic pain(NP).Methods Differential expression genes in the primary somatsensory cortex(S1)of NP data and overlapping genes between the dataset and mitochondrial data were screened and analyzed.Overlapping gene interaction networks were overlapped and core genes were screened.A total of 27 mice were randomly divided into the sham operation group,the model group and the drug administration group(9 mice/group).The chronic compression injury model of sciatic nerve was constructed in the model group and the drug administration group.Nod 10 mg/kg was intraperitoneally injected into the drug administration group for 1 week.Changes of pain behavior and motor ability in mice were detected.HE staining and Nissl staining were used to detect effects of nerve injury and inflammation on brain tissue of S1 region of mice.The expression levels of interleukin-1β,early gene(c-Fos),panthenol-cytochrome c reductase complex III subunit(Uqcrq)and ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit(Nduf)b5 in S1 brain region were analyzed by Western blot assay.Molecular docking was used to study the target of Nod.PC12 cells were divided into the control group,the IL-1β group(1 μmol/L IL-1β treatment)and the IL-1β+Nod group(1 μmol/L IL-1β+1 μmol/L Nod treatment),and mitochondrial membrane potential was detected in each group.Results In the NP dataset GSE180627,S1 brain region contained 293 differentially expressed genes,and the mitochondrial data contained 1 082 genes.There were 34 overlapping genes,and genes related to oxidative phosphorylation and electron transport chain were enriched.The protein interaction network showed that core genes included electron transport chain related proteins Ndufb5,Uqcrq,Ndufs8,Ndufa7,Ndufa3,Cox6b1 and Mrps33.Compared with the model group,the mechanical foot shrinkage threshold,thermal foot shrinkage reflex latency and rod rotation residence time of mice were increased in the drug administration group,the number of inflammatory infiltrating cells in S1 tissue and the number of Nislet bodies in neurons,expression levels of c-Fos and IL-1β in neurons were decreased,and expression levels of Uqcrq and Ndufb5 were increased(P<0.05).Molecular docking showed that Nod could bind Uqcrq and Ndufb5.Compared with the IL-1β group,the fluorescence signal of mitochondrial membrane potential was enhanced in the IL-1β+Nod group(P<0.05).Conclusion Nodakenin can improve pain behavior in mice,and its mechanism involves ameliorating mitochondrial damage in S1.
5.Modulation of microglia by traditional Chinese medicine improves post-stroke depression
Qi LI ; Jing GAO ; Ming ZHANG ; Xu ZHANG ; Yachen FENG ; Rui PAN ; Chunxiao WANG ; Qiongdi REN
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(18):2945-2952
Post-stroke depression(PSD),a common stroke complication characterized by depressed mood and diminished interest,severely affects patients'recovery and quality of life.Microglial abnormal activation and polarization play key roles in PSD pathogenesis,closely associated with neuroinflammation and imbalance in neu-rotransmitter metabolism.In contrast,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)demonstrates unique multi-target and multi-level mechanisms:regulating microglial function,ameliorating post-stroke neuroinflammatory environments,and promoting neuroplasticity,thereby potentially alleviating PSD symptoms.This review summarizes TCM's effects on microglial activation/polarization states and its therapeutic advances in PSD,providing novel perspectives and strategies for clinical management.
6.The efficacy of probiotics combined with exercise rehabilitation in Parkinson's disease patients was investigated based on the theory of intestinal flora
Jie YANG ; Shukun DENG ; Peng YUAN ; Yachen SHI ; Xuemei MA ; Min SU
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(20):3191-3197
Objective To investigate the effects of gut microbiota regulation combined with exercise rehabilitation on non-motor symptoms and neurological function in Parkinson's disease patients.Methods A total of 154 Parkinson's disease patients admitted to our hospital from January 2022 to January 2024 were selected as the subjects of the study.Using a random number table,these 154 patients were evenly divided into a control group and a treatment group,with 77 patients in each group.Both groups received standard treatments,but the control group also underwent exercise rehabilitation therapy,while the treatment group received probiotic supplementation and exercise rehabilitation therapy.The effectiveness of the two groups was then compared.Results Following the 12 weeks,24 weeks therapeutic regimen,The treatment group showed significantly better outcomes(P<0.05).Clinically meaningful reductions were observed in Hoehn-Yahr staging,alongside decreased scores on standardized instruments assessing psychiatric symptoms HAMA,HAMD,SCOPA-AUT,UPDRS Ⅰ-IV and PDSS(P<0.05).Concurrently,the study group exhibited enhanced MMSE(P<0.05).Fecal microbiome analyses revealed a favorable ecological shift characterized by increased colonization of beneficial genera Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus,with concomitant suppression of pathobionts Enterococcus and Enterobacteriaceae.Gait analysis revealed increased step length,speed,and frequency in the treatment group(P<0.05).Conclusion Patients with Parkinson's disease who received probiotics combined with exercise rehabilitation treatment could effectively improve non-motor symptoms and neurological function,while promoting the balance of intestinal flora,and reduce clinical symptoms.
7.Progress in role of joint barrier dysfunction in joint diseases
Rui PENG ; Xingsheng ZHA ; Yachen PENG ; Huantian ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Pathophysiology 2025;41(7):1442-1448
Joint diseases have traditionally been linked to cartilage degeneration and inflammation,often ne-glecting the vital role of the joint barrier.This review introduces the novel concept of the"joint barrier"as an essential ana-tomical and functional unit in maintaining joint homeostasis.We systematically elucidate its structural components and functional characteristics,underscoring how dysfunction of the joint barrier contributes to the pathogenesis of various joint diseases.This perspective provides fresh insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.We highlight cutting-edge findings on the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying joint barrier imbalance,focusing on epigenetic modifications,metabolic reprogramming,and intercellular communication networks.These discoveries establish a new framework for understanding joint pathology and identifying innovative intervention strategies.Additionally,we propose forward-thinking research directions with significant translational potential,including exploring the association between im-mune components and synovial barrier function,developing novel drugs targeting the barrier microenvironment,and inves-tigating the regulatory mechanisms of joint barrier imbalance influenced by systemic factors.These strategies promise to revolutionize the diagnosis,treatment,and prevention of joint diseases.By integrating the latest research and proposing fu-ture directions,this review offers a comprehensive understanding of joint barrier disorders and their implications for joint diseases,paving the way for new therapeutic approaches and concepts in the field.
8.The efficacy of probiotics combined with exercise rehabilitation in Parkinson's disease patients was investigated based on the theory of intestinal flora
Jie YANG ; Shukun DENG ; Peng YUAN ; Yachen SHI ; Xuemei MA ; Min SU
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(20):3191-3197
Objective To investigate the effects of gut microbiota regulation combined with exercise rehabilitation on non-motor symptoms and neurological function in Parkinson's disease patients.Methods A total of 154 Parkinson's disease patients admitted to our hospital from January 2022 to January 2024 were selected as the subjects of the study.Using a random number table,these 154 patients were evenly divided into a control group and a treatment group,with 77 patients in each group.Both groups received standard treatments,but the control group also underwent exercise rehabilitation therapy,while the treatment group received probiotic supplementation and exercise rehabilitation therapy.The effectiveness of the two groups was then compared.Results Following the 12 weeks,24 weeks therapeutic regimen,The treatment group showed significantly better outcomes(P<0.05).Clinically meaningful reductions were observed in Hoehn-Yahr staging,alongside decreased scores on standardized instruments assessing psychiatric symptoms HAMA,HAMD,SCOPA-AUT,UPDRS Ⅰ-IV and PDSS(P<0.05).Concurrently,the study group exhibited enhanced MMSE(P<0.05).Fecal microbiome analyses revealed a favorable ecological shift characterized by increased colonization of beneficial genera Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus,with concomitant suppression of pathobionts Enterococcus and Enterobacteriaceae.Gait analysis revealed increased step length,speed,and frequency in the treatment group(P<0.05).Conclusion Patients with Parkinson's disease who received probiotics combined with exercise rehabilitation treatment could effectively improve non-motor symptoms and neurological function,while promoting the balance of intestinal flora,and reduce clinical symptoms.
9.Application value of one-hour post-load glucose ≥8.6 mmol/L during oral glucose tolerance test in detecting prediabetes
Xin CHAI ; Dongli ZHU ; Yachen WANG ; Di LI ; Kaipeng LIANG ; Chunyu YANG ; Jinping WANG ; Zhiwei YANG ; Ruitai SHAO ; Qiuhong GONG ; Juan ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;59(6):925-932
Objective:To assess the application value of one-hour post-load glucose (1hPG) for detecting prediabetes among individuals with high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods:The study was conducted between August 2023 and January 2024, and individuals with a high risk of T2DM were invited to receive an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), structural questionnaires, physical measurements, and other biochemical examinations. The fasting, one-, and two-hour glucose and insulin were tested. According to the 1hPG cut point on hyperglycemia suggested by International Diabetes Federation (IDF), normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and prediabetes were further divided into two subgroups, respectively, i.e., NGT with 1hPG<8.6 mmol/L (NGT-1hPG-normal), NGT with 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L (NGT-1hPG-high), prediabetes with 1hPG<8.6 mmol/L (PDM-1hPG-normal), and prediabetes with 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L (PDM-1hPG-high). The insulin release curve was drawn by the groups as above. Insulin resistance was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and β-cell secretory function was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment for β cell function (HOMA-β)/HOMA-IR. Spearman rank correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation coefficients among 1hPG, 2hPG and HOMA indices, and Steiger′s Z test was used to compare the difference between two correlation coefficients. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess the accuracy of 1hPG for detecting prediabetes. Results:A total of 2 469 subjects consisting of 1 485 men (60.1%) and 984 (39.9%) women, with a mean age of (45.76±6.20) years, of which 1 844 (74.7%) had 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L. The prevalence of 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L was 46.8%, 93.0% and 99.8% in individuals with NGT, prediabetes and newly diagnosed T2DM, respectively ( χ 2=763.78, P<0.001). The insulin release curve showed that insulin secretion increased rapidly in subjects with NGT-1hPG-high, and peaked at one hour, then decreased rapidly, with a significantly higher level of one- and two-hour insulin than those with NGT-1hPG-normal ( P<0.001). Compared to individuals with NGT-1hPG-normal, the counterparts with NGT-1hPG-high exhibited higher HOMA-IR and lower adjusted HOMA-β ( P<0.001). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that the correlation coefficient of 1hPG with HOMA-IR was similar to the correlation coefficient of 2hPG with HOMA-IR (0.493 vs. 0.480, P=0.550), while the correlation of 1hPG with adjusted HOMA-β was significantly stronger than that of 2hPG (-0.692 vs. -0.587, P<0.001). Excluding patients with T2DM, according to the cut point recommended by IDF, the AUC of 1hPG≥8.6 mmol/L for detecting prediabetes was 0.731 (95% CI: 0.714-0.748), and the sensitivity and specificity were 0.930 and 0.532, respectively, with the kappa value of 0.45. Conclusion:1hPG is closely related to insulin resistance and islet function, and there′s substantial value for individuals with a high risk of T2DM to detect prediabetes by using the 1hPG cut points recommended by IDF.
10.Modulation of microglia by traditional Chinese medicine improves post-stroke depression
Qi LI ; Jing GAO ; Ming ZHANG ; Xu ZHANG ; Yachen FENG ; Rui PAN ; Chunxiao WANG ; Qiongdi REN
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(18):2945-2952
Post-stroke depression(PSD),a common stroke complication characterized by depressed mood and diminished interest,severely affects patients'recovery and quality of life.Microglial abnormal activation and polarization play key roles in PSD pathogenesis,closely associated with neuroinflammation and imbalance in neu-rotransmitter metabolism.In contrast,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)demonstrates unique multi-target and multi-level mechanisms:regulating microglial function,ameliorating post-stroke neuroinflammatory environments,and promoting neuroplasticity,thereby potentially alleviating PSD symptoms.This review summarizes TCM's effects on microglial activation/polarization states and its therapeutic advances in PSD,providing novel perspectives and strategies for clinical management.

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