1.Clinical Observation on Prevention of Recurrence of Common Bile Duct Stones After ERCP with Yuyin Lidan Granules
Xiao WANG ; Yong FANG ; Cong HE ; Jiali ZHANG ; Meng YU ; Jing KONG ; Yi JIANG ; Chuanqi CHENG ; Xiaosu WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(4):159-166
ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy and safety of Yuyin Lidan granules (YYLD) in preventing the recurrence of common bile duct stones (CBDS) in patients with liver and gallbladder dampness-heat syndrome following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). MethodsThis randomized, parallel, controlled trial enrolled postoperative CBDS-ERCP patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sixty-four patients were randomly assigned to an observation group or a control group, with 32 cases in each. Both groups received conventional Western medical treatment after ERCP, while the observation group additionally received YYLD for 8 weeks. The follow-up period lasted for 1 year. The efficacy indicators included bile bilirubin levels, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, clinical efficacy rate, pancreatitis and inflammation markers, postoperative liver function, and CBDS recurrence rate at 1-year follow-up, which were used to jointly evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of both groups. ResultsA total of 56 patients completed the study and were included in the final analysis, i.e., 29 in the observation group and 27 in the control group. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. Compared with pre-treatment and with the control group after treatment, the bile bilirubin level in the observation group significantly decreased (P<0.05). After treatment, the clinical cure and marked improvement rates were higher in the observation group than in the control group, showing a statistically significant difference in overall clinical efficacy (P<0.05). Compared with pre-treatment, the primary and secondary symptoms in the observation group, as well as the primary symptom and the secondary symptom of nausea and vomiting in the control group (weeks 4 and 8), were significantly reduced (P<0.05). Compared with the control group after treatment, the observation group showed significant reductions in the primary symptom of loose stools/constipation (day 5 and week 4) and in three secondary symptoms, i.e., bitter taste and sticky dry mouth, abdominal distension and poor appetite (throughout the treatment period), and general heaviness and fatigue (day 5 and week 4), with statistical differences (P<0.05). Compared with pre-treatment, both groups showed decreased lipase and urinary amylase levels (P<0.05). However, no significant between-group differences were observed in pancreatitis or inflammation-related indices after treatment. Compared with pre-treatment, all liver function indicators in the observation group and alanine aminotransferase ( ALT ), γ-glutamyl transferase ( γ-GT ), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and conjugated bilirubin in the control group significantly decreased at weeks 4 and 8 (P<0.05). Compared with the control group after treatment, only serum total bilirubin and unconjugated bilirubin were significantly reduced in the observation group during the treatment period (P<0.05). ConclusionYYLD combined with conventional Western medical treatment can effectively regulate bilirubin metabolism (in bile and serum), improve TCM clinical symptoms, and prevent CBDS recurrence after ERCP in patients with liver and gallbladder dampness-heat syndrome. This regimen is safe and effective and is worthy of further clinical research and promotion.
2.Pre-operative risk assessment of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence in liver transplant recipients by non-invasive detection of pre-existing genetic lesions
Suqin YANG ; Sunbin LING ; Jianhua LI ; Yan WANG ; Jiapei WANG ; Qiwei HUANG ; Fanming LIU ; Yiqi ZHUANG ; Yingyu ZHENG ; Rui WANG ; Zhe YANG ; Xiaoping ZHENG ; Kai WANG ; Zhikun LIU ; Jun CHEN ; Jianguo WANG ; Haiyang XIE ; Lin ZHOU ; Leiming CHEN ; Guoqiang CAO ; Dandan CHEN ; Junfang JI ; Bin ZHAO ; Chao JIANG ; Di LU ; Xuyong WEI ; Hangjin JIANG ; Qiaonan SHAN ; Hengbo SHI ; Yong-Zhen XU ; Shusen ZHENG ; Zhengxin WANG ; Shengda LIN ; Xiao XU
Clinical and Molecular Hepatology 2026;32(2):884-903
Background/Aims:
Liver transplantation (LT) following total hepatectomy is a life-saving treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The HCC recurrence after LT hinders the effectiveness of the procedure. The objective of this study is to develop a pre-operative risk stratification model based on a liquid biopsy.
Methods:
We conducted a comprehensive multi-omics study of 260 HCC patients from three centers, including clinical data, low-coverage whole-genome sequencing of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from plasma, as well as whole-exome, single-nucleus RNA, and spatial transcriptomics from matched tumor and non-tumor tissues.
Results:
We identified cfDNA-derived copy number alteration (CNA) signatures associated with post-transplant recurrence. By integrating cfDNA-derived CNA profiles with single-cell transcriptomic data, we traced recurrence-associated cfDNA to a distinct subpopulation of malignant cells within the primary tumor. These cells were embedded in a pro-metastatic microenvironment of specialized endothelial subtypes and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Notably, most recurrence-associated lesions were detectable in cfDNA prior to liver transplantation (LT). Building on these insights, we developed the ZJU Criteria based on CNA fragments and tumor markers, a pre-LT risk prediction tool that integrates conventional clinical factors with cfDNA-derived CNA signatures, and validated it using internal and independent external cohorts.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that post-transplant recurrence commonly originates from advanced subclones that emerge late during tumor evolution. The ZJU Criteria provides an accurate, non-invasive strategy that significantly improves pre-LT risk stratification and clinical decision-making for patients with HCC.
3.Research progress of macrophage-related microRNA in rheumatoid arthritis
Qijiang JIANG ; Chenggen LUO ; Yanjuan CHEN ; Mei TIAN ; Yong CHEN
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(5):955-960
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic synovial inflammation and joint destruction, with a complex pathogenesis. Macrophage polarization plays a pivotal role in disease progression. Recent studies demonstrate that microRNA (miRNA), as critical post-transcriptional regulators, can participate in the inflammatory response process by regulating the polarization state of macrophages, thereby aggravating RA joint damage. This review summarizes the mechanism of action of various miRNA in regulating macrophage polarization, and emphasizes their potential therapeutic value in RA.
4.Progress of innovative drug research in China
Yuhang WANG ; Bin DI ; Yong YANG ; Cheng JIANG
Journal of China Pharmaceutical University 2026;57(3):275-287
In recent years, China’s capacity for new drug research and development has been significantly strengthened, with major breakthroughs across multiple therapeutic areas, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders. An increasing number of domestically developed innovative drugs have been approved for marketing, gradually establishing a competitive position against imported drugs and expanding into global markets. This article systematically reviews the latest research progress of Class 1 innovative drugs in China from 2023 to 2024, categorizes representative approved drugs by therapeutic area, summarizes the clinical advantages and characteristics of representative drugs approved, analyzes in depth the current development trends of and challenges for China’s innovative pharmaceutical industry, and explores future directions, aiming to provide some reference for innovative drug research, industrial development, and policy-making in China.
5.Analysis of soil-borne nematode infection status among rural communities in Yubei, Chongqing
Dan JIANG ; Yong-dong HAO ; Sen-ping YANG ; Xiao-yuan SU ; Hua-jun BAI ; Bo LYU ; Ya-ling RAN ; He-yi GUAN ; Ling HU
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(2):85-89
Objective To analyze the infection status and epidemic trends of soil-borne nematode infections in Yubei, Chongqing City, in 2010,2021, and 2022. Methods The local populations from four survey sites of four towns in 2010 and five sites of five towns in 2021 and 2022 were surveyed regarding their basic information using a unified form. Fecal samples of the participants were collected and tested for soil-borne nematode infections using the modified Kato-Katz thick smear method. Results In 2010, 2 049 participants were surveyed, followed by 1 000 participants in 2021 and 2022. The overall prevalence of parasitic infections declined significantly from 3.86% to 0.20%. In 2010, soil-transmitted nematode included hookworms(3.81%) and roundworms(0.29%). In 2021, the infection rates of roundworms and hookworms were 1.70% and 0.10% respectively. Notably, only Ascaris was identified in 2022(0.20%). The≥60 age group consistently exhibited the highest infection rates across all surveys, followed by the 40-59 age group. The infection rates of males in the three surveys were 3.31%,1.92%, and 0.20% respectively, and those of females were 4.37%, 1.46%, and 0.20% respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the infection rates between males and females. Educational attainment was inversely associated with infection; in 2010, the highest prevalence was observed among those with primary education or below, whereas in 2021, illiterate or semi-literate individuals showed the highest susceptibility. The occupational distribution of infections in 2010 indicated that retirees (8.33%), farmers(4.86%), and homemakers or unemployed individuals(3.45%)were the most affected. However, in 2021 and 2022, farmers emerged as the predominant occupational group with soil-transmitted nematode infections. Conclusions The infection rate of soil-borne nematodes showed a decreasing trend in Yubei, and the infection species changed from hookworms in 2010 to Ascaris in 2022. Farmers, the elderly, and people with low education levels should continue to be the focus of preventive and control efforts.
6.Identification and infection rate of densovirus in Culex pipiens pallens in Beijing in 2023
Xiu-yan XU ; Ting YAN ; Si-jie ZHU ; Jing LI ; Mei-de LIU ; Hong-jiang ZHANG ; Ting LIU ; Qiu-hong LI ; Xiao-jie ZHOU ; Ying TONG ; Yong ZHANG
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(1):25-30
Objective This study conducted molecular biological identification of the viruses carried by Culex pipiens pallens specimens collected in Shunyi District, Beijing in 2023, and observed the changes in the infection rate of the viruses carried by Cx. pipiens pallens at different collection times. Methods Cx. pipiens pallens were collected using carbon dioxide mosquito traps. The mosquito samples were ground in batches and analyzed by molecular biology technologies. The virus infection rate at different collection times was analyzed statistically. Results 17 strains of Culex pipiens pallens densovirus(CppDNV)were identified from Cx. pipiens pallens samples collected in Shunyi District, Beijing, in 2023. The nucleotide sequence analysis of the virus genome coding region showed that CppDNV was a single-stranded DNA virus with a total length of 3 335 nt, encoding 2 non-structural proteins(NS1, NS2)and 1 capsid protein(VP). The nucleotide(amino acid)sequence lengths of the three proteins were 2 376 nt(791 aa),1 092 nt(363 aa)and 1 071 nt(356 aa), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that CppDNV was located in genus Brevihamaparvovirus. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in infection rates across collection times(χ2=4.429, P=0.194). Conclusions CppDNV was identified in Cx. pipiens pallens in Beijing, and it was stably maintained in this natural population.
7.Annual review of global liver transplantation research in 2025
Runmin TANG ; Yongwei HU ; Yong JIANG ; Yang YANG ; Wei LIU
Organ Transplantation 2026;17(4):526-540
In 2025, significant breakthroughs were achieved in various aspects of liver transplantation, including xenotransplantation, machine perfusion, minimally invasive surgery, precise immune regulation and artificial intelligence, etc. The successful implementation of gene-modified pig-to-human assisted liver transplantation marked the official entry of xenotransplantation into the clinical transformation stage. The machine perfusion technology completed multiple large-scale clinical validations, significantly improving the transplantation outcomes of marginal donor livers and donor livers from donation after cardiac death, and pushing organ preservation into the era of dynamic functional assessment. Split liver transplantation and living donor liver transplantation continuously optimized in terms of donor-recipient matching, liver utilization and perioperative management. Robotic and laparoscopic technologies further promoted liver transplantation towards the direction of precision and minimally invasive surgery. Hepatocellular carcinoma liver transplantation gradually formed a precise management model centered on immunotherapy, bridge downgrade and recurrence risk prediction. At the same time, artificial intelligence and multi-omics technologies demonstrated significant application value in prognosis prediction, organ allocation and complication risk assessment. This article conducts a systematic review of the important research progress in the field of liver transplantation in 2025 and looks forward to the future development directions and challenges.
8.Severe Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of Management
Shaleela Mohd Esha ; Chua Yi Jiang ; Wong Hui Chin ; Ooi Xin Yi ; Yong Sy Liang
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):65-
Introduction:
Severe hypertriglyceridemia during pregnancy is a rare
yet potentially life-threatening disorder. It is frequently
linked to acute pancreatitis and poses considerable risks
for both maternal and fetal morbidity.
Case:
We report a 35-year-old G4P3 female at 33 + 6 weeks
gestation with underlying type 2 diabetes mellitus who
presented with acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting,
and poor oral intake, initially mistaken for preterm labor
and sepsis. Further evaluation revealed profound hypertriglyceridemia (triglycerides 79.1 mmol/L) with markedly
elevated total cholesterol (>32 mmol/L) and raised serum
amylase, consistent with hypertriglyceridemia-induced
acute pancreatitis. She was managed in a multidisciplinary
setting with intravenous insulin infusion, dextrose supplementation, aggressive fluid resuscitation, and empiric
antibiotics. Due to clinical deterioration and ongoing risk of
maternal complications, she underwent emergency lower
segment caesarean section and exploratory laparotomy
at 34 weeks of gestation. Intraoperative findings included
inflammatory intra-abdominal fluid and a bulky pancreas,
supporting the diagnosis. Rapid biochemical improvement was observed following treatment, with triglyceride levels
decreasing by approximately 70% within 24 hours (79.1–
24.0 mmol/L) and achieving >90% reduction over 10 days.
Postpartum management included initiation of omega-3
fatty acids, fibrate, and statin therapy, resulting in sustained
lipid control. Ophthalmologic examination demonstrated
lipemia retinalis, further confirming severe dyslipidemia.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of early recognition of
severe hypertriglyceridemia in pregnancy, particularly in
patients with metabolic risk factors such as diabetes. Prompt
initiation of insulin therapy can achieve rapid triglyceride
reduction and may obviate the need for plasmapheresis in
selected cases. Delivery should be considered in the setting
of maternal instability. Long-term lipid management
postpartum is essential for preventing recurrence and
reducing future metabolic risk. A multidisciplinary
approach remains critical in optimizing both maternal and
fetal outcomes in this rare but serious condition.
Female
;
Pregnancy
;
Acute Disease
;
Pancreatitis
9.Annual review of global liver transplantation research in 2024: technological breakthroughs, precision management and future challenges
Yong JIANG ; Xiao FENG ; Wei LIU ; Yang YANG
Organ Transplantation 2025;16(3):350-358
In recent years, significant progress has been made in the field of liver transplantation in terms of donor expansion, technological innovation and perioperative management. Machine perfusion technology, through dynamic repair and assessment of donor liver quality, can effectively reduce postoperative complications and increase the utilization rate of marginal donor livers. The optimization of split liver transplantation technology combined with normothermic perfusion further alleviates the shortage of donors, but its promotion is still limited by technical barriers. Xenotransplantation has achieved preclinical breakthroughs in the field of genetically modified pig livers, but ethical and immune barrier issues need to be urgently resolved. In the field of liver cancer liver transplantation, the focus is on neoadjuvant treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors and the development of recurrence prediction models, which promotes precise treatment. For perioperative management, the optimization of individualized immunosuppressive regimens, artificial liver support, and strategies for the prevention and control of vascular complications has significantly improved patients’ survival rates. Personalized treatment for children, elderly recipients, and recipients with multiple comorbidities provides new ideas for liver transplantation in special populations. In the future, liver transplantation research may focus on the integration of multidisciplinary approaches, individualized treatment and emerging technologies to advance the global liver transplantation cause to new heights.
10.Changes in Gene Expression of the Extracellular Matrix in Patients with Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears of Varying Sizes
Jian JIANG ; Kwi-Hoon JANG ; Sung Yong AHN ; Chris Hyunchul JO
Clinics in Orthopedic Surgery 2025;17(1):138-147
Background:
This study aimed to investigate changes in gene expression related to matrix synthesis in individuals with fullthickness rotator cuff tears (RCTs) and normal tendon tissues. The study also aimed to examine the differences in gene expression according to 4 distinct tear sizes.
Methods:
A total of 12 patients with full-thickness RCTs were included in the study, all of whom underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The RCTs were stratified by size into small, medium, large, and massive. Tendon samples were harvested from the midpoint between the lateral end of the torn tendon and the musculotendinous junction. Subsequent analysis of the tissue samples revealed the mRNA expression levels of 11 collagen types, 6 proteoglycans, and 8 glycoproteins through real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques. For control purposes, supraspinatus tendon tissue was sourced from 3 patients who had proximal humerus fractures but did not present with RCTs.
Results:
Among the 11 collagens and 14 non-collagenous protein (NCP) genes examined in this study, COL3A1 and COL10A1 showed a significant increase, whereas COL4A1 and COL14A1 showed a tendency to decrease compared to those in the normal group. ACAN significantly increased by 8.92-fold (p < 0.001) compared to that in the normal group, whereas DCN and LUM showed a tendency to decrease. FN1 and TNC increased significantly by 3.47-fold (p = 0.003) and 5.38-fold (p = 0.005), respectively, and the genes ELN, LAMA2, and THBS1 were all significantly reduced compared to those in the normal group. In the NCPs, almost all the genes with increased expression levels had the highest level in small size RCTs, and gene expression decreased as the size increased. The 3 proteoglycans (ACAN, BGN, and FMOD) showed the highest levels of expression in small size RCTs compared to those in the normal group, and 5 glycoproteins (COMP, FBN1, FN1, HAPLN1, and TNC) also showed the highest expression in small size RCTs.
Conclusions
We confirmed that most of the detected extracellular matrix gene expression changes were related to the size of the full-thickness RCTs. In NCPs, gene expression was increased in small-size tears, and gene expression levels were significantly reduced when the size increased.


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