1.Effect of Huayu Jiedu Prescription on Oxygen-glucose Deprivation-induced Injury in Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells Based on PI3K/Akt/mTOR Autophagy Related Pathway
Xun PENG ; Yujia LI ; Dingxiang LI ; Yihui DENG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(9):111-121
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of Huayu Jiedu prescription on brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) after oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) injury and to explore its intervention mechanisms. MethodsThe cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to determine the optimal OGD duration and the effective concentration of Huayu Jiedu prescription-containing serum. Cells were randomly divided into the blank serum medium group (KBXQ), model group (OGD), HYXQ group (OGD + Huayu Jiedu prescription-containing serum), and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) group (OGD + 3-MA). Cell morphology was observed under an inverted microscope. The numbers of autophagosomes and autolysosomes in cells were observed by transmission electron microscopy. Cell viability was determined using the CCK-8 assay. Cell apoptosis rate was detected using the TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The expression levels of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and Occludin were detected by immunofluorescence. The permeability of the cell monolayer was also measured. Cells were further randomly divided into the KBXQ group, model group (OGD), HYXQ group, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitor (LY294002) group (OGD + LY294002), and HYXQ + LY294002 group (OGD + Huayu Jiedu prescription-containing serum + LY294002). Western blot analysis was used to detect the expression levels of the autophagy-related key molecule yeast Atg6 homolog 1 (Beclin1), LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ, selective autophagy adaptor protein (p62), Occludin, phosphorylated (p)-PI3K, PI3K, phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-Akt), Akt, phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR), and mTOR. ResultsOGD for 6 h was selected as the optimal modeling condition, and 5% was determined as the optimal volume fraction of Huayu Jiedu prescription-containing serum. Compared with the KBXQ group, the model group showed obvious cell damage under the inverted microscope, and transmission electron microscopy revealed markedly increased numbers of autophagosomes and autolysosomes. Cell viability was significantly decreased (P<0.01), apoptosis rate was significantly increased (P<0.01), LC3 fluorescence intensity was significantly increased (P<0.01), Occludin fluorescence intensity was significantly decreased (P<0.01), and monolayer permeability was significantly increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, cell damage in the HYXQ group and the 3-MA group was significantly improved, the numbers of autophagosomes and autolysosomes were markedly reduced, cell viability was significantly increased (P<0.01), apoptosis rate was significantly decreased (P<0.01), LC3 fluorescence intensity was significantly decreased (P<0.01), Occludin fluorescence intensity was significantly increased (P<0.01), and monolayer permeability was reduced (P<0.05). Western blot results showed that, compared with the KBXQ group, the model group exhibited significantly increased expression of Beclin1 and LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ (P<0.01), while the expression levels of p62, Occludin, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the HYXQ group showed significantly decreased expression of Beclin1 and LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ (P<0.01) and significantly increased expression of p62, Occludin, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR (P<0.01). In the LY294002 group, Beclin1 and LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ expression were significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01), whereas the expression levels of p62, Occludin, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the LY294002 group, the HYXQ + LY294002 group showed significantly decreased expression of Beclin1 and LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ (P<0.01) and significantly increased expression of p62, Occludin, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, and p-mTOR/mTOR (P<0.01). ConclusionHuayu Jiedu prescription has a protective effect on BMECs after OGD injury, which may be achieved by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR autophagy-related signaling pathway and inhibiting excessive autophagy, thereby protecting Occludin protein expression and endothelial barrier function.
2.Advances in systemic treatment for early breast cancer patients
Yujia ZHANG ; Yaqi PENG ; Li MA
Clinical Medicine of China 2025;41(2):99-104
Early-stage treatment of malignant tumors has a significant effect on improving the prognosis. In ASCO and ESMO 2024, several important advancements have been made in the field of systemic therapy for early-stage breast cancer, particularly in the diversification of treatment plans and the individualization of strategies for different molecular subtypes of breast cancer. The importance of adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) has been highlighted on treating hormone receptor positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative early breast cancer.The adjuvant therapy with Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i) has been proven successful in treating HR+/HER2- early breast cancer. Neoadjuvant immunotherapy targeting early triple positive breast cancer (TNBC) has shown unique advantages. The possibility of having down-grade chemotherapy safely in treating HR+/HER2+ stage breast cancer has been explored.
3.Advances in systemic treatment for early breast cancer patients
Yujia ZHANG ; Yaqi PENG ; Li MA
Clinical Medicine of China 2025;41(2):99-104
Early-stage treatment of malignant tumors has a significant effect on improving the prognosis. In ASCO and ESMO 2024, several important advancements have been made in the field of systemic therapy for early-stage breast cancer, particularly in the diversification of treatment plans and the individualization of strategies for different molecular subtypes of breast cancer. The importance of adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) has been highlighted on treating hormone receptor positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative early breast cancer.The adjuvant therapy with Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i) has been proven successful in treating HR+/HER2- early breast cancer. Neoadjuvant immunotherapy targeting early triple positive breast cancer (TNBC) has shown unique advantages. The possibility of having down-grade chemotherapy safely in treating HR+/HER2+ stage breast cancer has been explored.
4.Scutellarin attenuates neuronal apoptosis in ischemic stroke rats via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway
Zhaoda DUAN ; Yingqi PENG ; Dongyao XU ; Yuke WU ; Yujia YANG ; Li YANG ; Chunyun WU
Chinese Journal of Pathophysiology 2025;41(6):1098-1108
AIM:To determine if scutellarin(Scu)provides neuroprotection by reducing neuronal apoptosis in rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)via the inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.METHODS:Proteins linked to Scu and ischaemic stroke-induced neuronal apoptosis were identified using the Swiss Tar-get Prediction,PharmMapper,OMIM,and GeneCards databases.Intersecting targets were identified through Venn analy-sis.Protein-protein interaction networks were visualised utilising Cytoscape software,and principal targets were identi-fied.Enrichment analyses of GO functions and KEGG pathways were conducted utilising the Metascape database.Molecu-lar docking of Scu with core targets was performed utilising AutoDock Vina.The neuroprotective effects of Scu were as-sessed in MCAO rats using Zea Longa scoring and the suspension test.JAK2/STAT3 phosphorylation levels and apoptosis-related proteins[cleaved caspase-3(C-caspase-3),caspase-3,Bax,and Bcl-2]were assessed using Western blot and im-munofluorescence staining.The JAK2-specific inhibitor AG490 was employed to further investigate the role of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.RESULTS:Network pharmacology analysis revealed 832 shared targets,with pathways en-riched in tumor-associated pathways,the JAK/STAT signalling pathway,and the HIF-1 signalling pathway.Molecular docking revealed robust binding affinities of Scu with the ten principal targets.Behavioural assessments utilising Zea Lon-ga scoring and the suspension test demonstrated that Scu markedly enhanced neurological recovery in MCAO rats.Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses demonstrated that phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3,along with the ex-pression of C-caspase-3,Bax,and Bcl-2,were markedly elevated in the MCAO group relative to the sham group(P<0.05).Post Scu treatment,phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3,along with C-caspase-3 and Bax expression,were markedly diminished,whereas Bcl-2 expression and fluorescence intensity were substantially increased(P<0.05).In the combined AG490 and Scu treatment group(MCAO+Scu+AG490),the phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3,as well as the expression of C-caspase-3 and Bax,exhibited no significant difference when compared to the Scu-alone group(P>0.05).Bcl-2 expression and fluorescence intensity were markedly reduced in the combined AG490 and Scu treatment group relative to the Scu-alone group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Scu seems to provide neuroprotection in ischaemic stroke by reducing neuronal apoptosis through the inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.
5.Feasibility study of transjugular tricuspid valve replacement for the treatment of tricuspid regurgitation
Fei CHEN ; Zhengang ZHAO ; Xin WEI ; Yujia LIANG ; Zhongkai ZHU ; Yijun YAO ; Xi LI ; Qiao LI ; Jiafu WEI ; Wei MENG ; Yong PENG ; Yuan FENG ; Mao CHEN
Chinese Journal of Cardiology 2025;53(4):363-372
Objective:To evaluate the feasibility of transjugular transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) using the LuX-Valve Plus system (Ningbo Jenscare Scientific, China) for the treatment of severe tricuspid regurgitation in real-world clinical settings.Methods:This prospective study enrolled 81 patients with severe ricuspid regurgitation (≥3+) who underwent TTVR with the LuX-Valve Plus system at the Department of Cardiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University between May 2022 and March 2024. Among them, 44 patients were from a compassionate-use study, and 37 were from two premarket clinical trials. Baseline clinical data, preprocedural imaging, procedural outcomes, and postprocedural follow-up data were collected. The primary endpoint events included device success, procedural success, and 30 d composite adverse events.Results:The age of the cohort was (74.5±7.8) years, with 54 females (67%). Device success and procedural success rates were both 90% (73/81). Post-procedural tricuspid regurgitation improved, with a 6% (5/81) incidence of moderate-to-severe paravalvular leakage. The rate of permanent pacemaker implantation was 12% (10/81), of which 5% (4/81) had pre-existing indications for pacemaker implantation. Major bleeding events occurred in 10% (8/81) of patients, and the 30 d composite endpoint rate was 25% (20/81).Conclusion:TTVR using the LuX-Valve Plus system demonstrates promising feasibility for high-risk surgical patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation, effectively reducing or eliminating regurgitation with acceptable safety. However, challenges remain in reducing risks of major adverse events, including permanent pacemaker implantation and severe bleeding.
6.Scutellarin attenuates neuronal apoptosis in ischemic stroke rats via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway
Zhaoda DUAN ; Yingqi PENG ; Dongyao XU ; Yuke WU ; Yujia YANG ; Li YANG ; Chunyun WU
Chinese Journal of Pathophysiology 2025;41(6):1098-1108
AIM:To determine if scutellarin(Scu)provides neuroprotection by reducing neuronal apoptosis in rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)via the inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.METHODS:Proteins linked to Scu and ischaemic stroke-induced neuronal apoptosis were identified using the Swiss Tar-get Prediction,PharmMapper,OMIM,and GeneCards databases.Intersecting targets were identified through Venn analy-sis.Protein-protein interaction networks were visualised utilising Cytoscape software,and principal targets were identi-fied.Enrichment analyses of GO functions and KEGG pathways were conducted utilising the Metascape database.Molecu-lar docking of Scu with core targets was performed utilising AutoDock Vina.The neuroprotective effects of Scu were as-sessed in MCAO rats using Zea Longa scoring and the suspension test.JAK2/STAT3 phosphorylation levels and apoptosis-related proteins[cleaved caspase-3(C-caspase-3),caspase-3,Bax,and Bcl-2]were assessed using Western blot and im-munofluorescence staining.The JAK2-specific inhibitor AG490 was employed to further investigate the role of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.RESULTS:Network pharmacology analysis revealed 832 shared targets,with pathways en-riched in tumor-associated pathways,the JAK/STAT signalling pathway,and the HIF-1 signalling pathway.Molecular docking revealed robust binding affinities of Scu with the ten principal targets.Behavioural assessments utilising Zea Lon-ga scoring and the suspension test demonstrated that Scu markedly enhanced neurological recovery in MCAO rats.Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses demonstrated that phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3,along with the ex-pression of C-caspase-3,Bax,and Bcl-2,were markedly elevated in the MCAO group relative to the sham group(P<0.05).Post Scu treatment,phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3,along with C-caspase-3 and Bax expression,were markedly diminished,whereas Bcl-2 expression and fluorescence intensity were substantially increased(P<0.05).In the combined AG490 and Scu treatment group(MCAO+Scu+AG490),the phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT3,as well as the expression of C-caspase-3 and Bax,exhibited no significant difference when compared to the Scu-alone group(P>0.05).Bcl-2 expression and fluorescence intensity were markedly reduced in the combined AG490 and Scu treatment group relative to the Scu-alone group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Scu seems to provide neuroprotection in ischaemic stroke by reducing neuronal apoptosis through the inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway.
7.Feasibility study of transjugular tricuspid valve replacement for the treatment of tricuspid regurgitation
Fei CHEN ; Zhengang ZHAO ; Xin WEI ; Yujia LIANG ; Zhongkai ZHU ; Yijun YAO ; Xi LI ; Qiao LI ; Jiafu WEI ; Wei MENG ; Yong PENG ; Yuan FENG ; Mao CHEN
Chinese Journal of Cardiology 2025;53(4):363-372
Objective:To evaluate the feasibility of transjugular transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) using the LuX-Valve Plus system (Ningbo Jenscare Scientific, China) for the treatment of severe tricuspid regurgitation in real-world clinical settings.Methods:This prospective study enrolled 81 patients with severe ricuspid regurgitation (≥3+) who underwent TTVR with the LuX-Valve Plus system at the Department of Cardiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University between May 2022 and March 2024. Among them, 44 patients were from a compassionate-use study, and 37 were from two premarket clinical trials. Baseline clinical data, preprocedural imaging, procedural outcomes, and postprocedural follow-up data were collected. The primary endpoint events included device success, procedural success, and 30 d composite adverse events.Results:The age of the cohort was (74.5±7.8) years, with 54 females (67%). Device success and procedural success rates were both 90% (73/81). Post-procedural tricuspid regurgitation improved, with a 6% (5/81) incidence of moderate-to-severe paravalvular leakage. The rate of permanent pacemaker implantation was 12% (10/81), of which 5% (4/81) had pre-existing indications for pacemaker implantation. Major bleeding events occurred in 10% (8/81) of patients, and the 30 d composite endpoint rate was 25% (20/81).Conclusion:TTVR using the LuX-Valve Plus system demonstrates promising feasibility for high-risk surgical patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation, effectively reducing or eliminating regurgitation with acceptable safety. However, challenges remain in reducing risks of major adverse events, including permanent pacemaker implantation and severe bleeding.
8.The effects of scutellarin on SIRT1/NF-κB signaling pathway in microgial of cerebral ischemic rat
Dongyao XU ; Zhaoda DUAN ; Yujia YANG ; Yingqi PENG ; Yuke WU ; Li YANG ; Chunyun WU
Chinese Journal of Neuroanatomy 2024;40(5):581-587
Objective:Investigating the effect of scutellarin on the expression of silent information regulator 1/nucle-ar factor κB(SIRT1/NF-κB)signaling pathway in microglia of cerebral ischemic rat.Methods:Male SD rats were de-vided into sham group,middle cerebral artery occlusion group(MCAO group),MCAO+scutellarin treatment group(MCAO+S group)randomly.Western Blot and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of SIRT1 and NF-κB(p65)and phosphorylation of NF-κB(p-p65)of ischemic cortex of rats.Results:Results of Western Blot and immunofluorescence showed that scutellarin pretreatment significantly increased the expression of SIRT1 and reduced phosphorylation of NF-κB p65(P<0.05).Conclusion:Scutellarin could regulate SIRT1/NF-κB signaling pathway in microglia of cerebral ischemic rat.
9.Effect of Zuogui Jiangtang Tongmai Prescription on Inflammatory Injury of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Induced by High Glucose and LPS Based on GPR43/β-arrestin-2/IκBα/NF-κB Pathway
Lanyu PENG ; Jingxin YAO ; Yujia LI ; Dingxiang LI ; Xun LIU ; Yihui DENG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2024;30(3):64-74
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects and mechanism of Zuogui Jiangtang Tongmai prescription (ZJTP) on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) damaged by high glucose combined with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). MethodThe survival rate of cells was determined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), and the level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine the optimal injury concentration and action time of LPS, as well as the optimal action concentration of ZJTP drug-containing serum. HUVECs were divided into a blank control group, a model group, a ZJTP drug-containing serum group, and an SCFA mixed liquid group. ELISA was used to detect the level of endothelin-1 (ET-1), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and TNF-α. Western blot was performed to detect the protein expression of G protein-coupled receptor43 (GPR43), β-suppressor protein-2 (β-arrestin-2), nuclear factor-κB suppressor α (IκBα), and nuclear factor κB p65 (NF-κB p65). The nucleation of NF-κB p65 was observed by immunofluorescence staining (IF). The role of GPR43 in the regulation of inflammatory injury was observed by means of small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA). The cells after intervention were divided into an empty carrier group, a ZJTP drug-containing serum group, a Si-GPR43 group, and a Si-GPR43 + ZJTP drug-containing serum group. The content of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α was detected by ELISA. The protein expression of pathways was detected by Western blot. IF was used to observe the nucleation of NF-κB p65. ResultThe optimal molding condition was 1 mg·L-1 LPS for 24 h. The optimal drug intervention condition was 5% ZJTP drug-containing serum for 24 h. Compared with the blank control group, the content of ET-1 in the model group was significantly increased, and the content of NO was significantly decreased (P<0.01). The levels of inflammatory factors were significantly increased (P<0.01). The expressions of GPR43 and IκBα were significantly decreased, while the protein expressions of β-arrestin-2 and NF-κB p65 were significantly increased (P<0.01). NF-κB p65 protein was transferred from the extranuclear to the intranuclear (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the content of ET-1 in the ZJTP drug-containing serum group was decreased, and the content of NO was increased (P<0.05). The levels of inflammatory factors decreased (P<0.05). The protein expressions of GPR43 and IκBα were increased, while the expressions of β-arrestin-2 and NF-κB p65 were decreased (P<0.05). The amount of NF-κB p65 transferred from the intranuclear to the extranuclear decreased (P<0.01). The mechanism study showed that compared with the Si-GPR43 group, the content of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly decreased after treatment with ZJTP drug-containing serum (P<0.01). The protein expressions of GPR43 and IκBα were significantly increased (P<0.01), while the protein expressions of β-arrestin-2 and NF-κB p65 were significantly decreased (P<0.01). The amount of NF-κB p65 transferred from the extranuclear to the intranuclear decreased (P<0.01). ConclusionZJTP has a protective effect on HUVECs with high glucose and LPS-induced inflammatory injury, which may be related to the regulation of GPR43/β-arrestin-2/IκBα/NF-κB pathway.
10.Clinical characteristics and changes and significance of TH17/Treg cells and lymphocyte subsets in adult secondary hemoph-agocytic syndrome
Yujia WANG ; Zhe PENG ; Chenlu WANG ; Xin LI ; Tao ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Clinical Laboratory Science 2024;42(9):659-663
Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics of adult secondary hemophagocytic syndrome(sHLH)and analyze the changes and significance of TH17/Treg cells and lymphocyte subsets,providing favorable references for clinical work.Methods 82 a-dult sHLH patients admitted to our hospital from April 2021 to March 2023 were selected.On the second day of admission,we observed their clinical characteristics and detected the levels of TH17/Treg cells(TH17,Treg,TH17/Treg)and lymphocyte subsets(CD3+,CD4+,CD8+,CD19+,CD16+CD56+).The patients were given the HLH-2004 treatment regimen and followed up for 6 months.Ac-cording to the treatment results,they were divided into the survival group(n=57)and fatality group(n=25).The levels of TH17/Treg cells and lymphocyte subsets on the second day of admission between the two groups were compared.The correlation between TH17/Treg cells and lymphocyte subsets and the value of TH17/Treg cells in evaluating the fatality of adult sHLH patients were ana-lyzed.Results All 82 adult sHLH patients had elevated serum beta-2 microglobulin and ferritin levels,and more than 90%of patients had clinical characteristics such as persistent irregular high fever,serous cavity effusion,decreased blood cells,and liver function dam-age.The levels of TH17,TH17/Treg,CD3+,and CD8+T cells on the second day of admission,1 month,2 months,and 3 months after treatment in the survival group were significantly lower than those in the fatality group(P<0.05),while the levels of Treg,CD4+,and CD16+CD56+lymphocytes were the opposite(P<0.05).The area under the reciever operating characteristics curve(AUCROC)of TH17/Treg cells combined with lymphocyte subsets in predicting the fatality of adult sHLH patients was 0.853(95%CI:0.758-0.922),which was higher than that of each individual indicator(P<0.05).Conclusion The clinical characteristics of adult sHLH are complex and diverse,with significant immune dysfunction of TH17/Treg and lymphocyte subsets.The TH17/Treg cells combined with lympho-cyte subsets have high efficacy in predicting the prognosis of adult sHLH patients.

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