1.Optimization of Extraction Process and Material Basis Analysis of Modified Banxia Xiexintang
Yuling LIU ; Ruying TANG ; Dongxue ZHENG ; Qiling ZHANG ; Xinmin LIU ; Donghan BAI ; Longfei LIN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):129-139
ObjectiveTo optimize and validate the optimal sequential alcohol-water extraction process of modified Banxia Xiexintang(MBXT) based on pharmacodynamic evaluation, combined with the G1-entropy weight method and Box-Behnken response surface methodology, and to systematically and comprehensively analyze the material basis of this formula, providing a scientific basis for its quality control and industrial production. MethodsRats were randomly divided into the normal group, model group, metformin group, and MBXT water extraction, water extraction and ethanol precipitation, sequential ethanol-water extraction groups. Except for the normal group, a polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance(PCOS-IR) model was established in all rats via a high-fat diet combined with letrozole induction. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) biochemical assay kits and hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining were used to compare sex hormone levels in serum and ovarian histopathology, thereby screening extraction process routes. Based on this, a comprehensive score was constructed using the G1-entropy weight method based on the transfer rates of index components(berberine hydrochloride and baicalin) and the dry extract rate. Box-Behnken response surface methodology was then utilized to optimize the extraction process parameters. Finally, the chemical constituents of the sample from the optimal process were qualitatively analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-electrostatic field orbitrap mass spectrometry(UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS). ResultsPharmacodynamic findings revealed that compared with the normal group, serum testosterone(T) and luteinizing hormone(LH) levels were significantly elevated in the model group, while estradiol(E2) and follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) levels were significantly decreased(P<0.01), with polycystic changes observed in ovarian tissues. Compared with the model group, all treatment groups significantly reversed the changes in sex hormone levels, with the sequential ethanol-water extraction group showing the optimal effect in improving the aforementioned indicators and pathological morphology, followed by subsequent process optimization. The optimized process involved adding 12 times the amount of 70% ethanol for extracting twice, each lasting 120 min, and adding 12 times the amount of water for extracting thrice, each lasting 90 min. Validation test results showed that under optimal process conditions, the average transfer rates of berberine hydrochloride and baicalin were 76.05% and 93.38%, respectively. MS analysis identified a total of 377 compounds, including 112 flavonoids, 41 terpenoids, 28 organic acids, 22 coumarins, and 8 alkaloids, while elucidating the cleavage patterns of key components. ConclusionThe optimized sequential ethanol-water extraction process is stable and feasible, effectively preserving the material basis of MBXT for treating PCOS-IR. It further clarifies the main chemical composition of this formula, providing a scientific basis for the development and quality control of its preparations.
2.Exploring Mechanism of Modified Banxia Xiexintang in Ameliorating Metabolic Disorders and Reproductive Function in PCOS-IR Rats Based on Metabolomics and Transcriptomics
Donghan BAI ; Ruying TANG ; Longfei LIN ; Yuling LIU ; Dongxue ZHENG ; Qiling ZHANG ; Xinmin LIU ; Hui LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):140-149
ObjectiveTo evaluate the therapeutic effects of modified Banxia Xiexintang(MBXT) on polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance(PCOS-IR) rats and reveal its potential mechanisms based on the integrated analysis of transcriptomics and metabolomics. MethodsFemale SD rats were selected, and a PCOS-IR model was established by intragastric administration of letrozole combined with a high-fat diet for 21 days. The modeled rats were randomly divided into the model group, MBXT low-, medium-, and high-dose groups(6.62, 13.23, 26.46 g·kg-1), and metformin group(0.158 g·kg-1), with a normal group set up separately. After 14 days of administration, the estrous cycle was observed, ovarian morphology was examined by hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining, and the levels of testosterone(T), estradiol(E2), follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH), and luteinizing hormone(LH) in serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Serum metabolites and ovarian tissue gene expression were detected using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-electrostatic orbitrap mass spectrometry(UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS) and RNA-Seq technology, respectively, followed by multi-omics integrated analysis. ResultsPharmacodynamic findings revealed that all MBXT dose groups could reversed abnormal estrous cycles in PCOS-IR rats, improve polycystic ovarian lesions, and normalize dysregulated serum hormone levels(T, LH, E2, FS, P<0.05, P<0.01). Metabolomic analysis revealed that compared with the model group, MBXT reversed 278 differential metabolites such as estrone and S-formylglutathione, mainly involving pathways such as steroid hormone biosynthesis, glutathione metabolism, and lipid peroxidation regulation. Transcriptomic analysis identified 434 differentially expressed genes, and enrichment analysis revealed that MBXT significantly regulated lipid peroxidation defense systems, including glutathione metabolism, peroxisome function, and fatty acid metabolism, thereby intervening in ferroptosis processes. It also engaged in inflammation-related pathways such as the chemokine signaling pathway. Integrated analysis revealed that both metabolomics and transcriptomics co-enriched metabolic pathways associated with ferroptosis and fatty acid metabolism. And key Hub genes[such as Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 2 gene(Rac2) and Fas ligand gene(Faslg)] showed significant correlations with differential metabolites. ConclusionMBXT can effectively ameliorate reproductive dysfunction and metabolic disorders in PCOS-IR rats. Its mechanism may be related to remodeling the immune-metabolism network, particularly by regulating MHC-mediated immune responses, inhibiting local ovarian ferroptosis, and enhancing steroid hormone synthesis pathways.
3.Investigation on Mechanism of Modified Banxia Xiexintang in Improving Ovarian Dysfunction of PCOS-IR Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via AMPK/FASN/GPX4 Signaling Pathway
Donghan BAI ; Ruying TANG ; Longfei LIN ; Yuling LIU ; Dongxue ZHENG ; Qiling ZHANG ; Xinmin LIU ; Hui LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(7):150-160
ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanism of modified Banxia Xiexintang(MBXT) in improving ovarian dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance(PCOS-IR) rats by inhibiting ferroptosis through the adenosine monophosphate(AMP)-activated protein kinase(AMPK)/fatty acid synthase(FASN)/glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4) signaling pathway. MethodsSeventy-six female SD rats were randomly divided into a normal group(n=13) and a modeling group(n=63). The modeling group established a PCOS-IR model by intragastric administration of letrozole combined with a high-fat diet for 21 days. After successful modeling, these rats were randomly divided into the model group, MBXT low-, medium-, and high-dose groups(6.62, 13.23, 26.46 g·kg-1), metformin group(0.158 g·kg-1), and high-dose of MBXT combined with ferroptosis inducer Erastin group(15 mg·kg-1), with 10 rats in each group. After 14 days of intervention, ovarian pathological morphology was observed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining, the mitochondrial ultrastructure of granulosa cells was observed by transmission electron microscopy(TEM), ovarian reactive oxygen species(ROS) levels were detected by dihydroethidium(DHE) probe, biochemical methods were used to detect Fe2+, malondialdehyde(MDA), glutathione(GSH) and other indicators in ovarian tissues, serum sex hormone and insulin levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA), and the protein expressions of AMPK, FASN, acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4(ACSL4), GPX4, and solute carrier family 7 member 11(SLC7A11) in ovarian tissues were detected by Western blot. ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group showed polycystic changes in the ovaries, with atrophy of mitochondria in granulosa cells and increased membrane density. Serum levels of testosterone(T), luteinizing hormone(LH), and insulin were significantly increased(P<0.01). The levels of ROS, MDA, 4-hydroxynonenal(4-HNE), and Fe2+ in ovarian tissues were significantly elevated(P<0.01), while adenosine triphosphate(ATP), GSH, and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) levels were significantly decreased(P<0.01). The phosphorylation levels of AMPK and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), as well as the protein expressions of SLC7A11, GPX4, and ferroptosis suppressor protein 1(FSP1) were significantly downregulated(P<0.01), whereas the expressions of FASN, ACSL4, and nuclear receptor coactivator 4(NCOA4) were significantly upregulated(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, MBXT intervention at various doses improved the above pathological changes and biochemical indicators in a dose-dependent manner, with the high-dose group showing the most significant effect(P<0.01). Compared with the MBXT high-dose group, the high-dose of MBXT combined with ferroptosis inducer Erastin group restored ovarian ferroptosis characteristics in rats, with increased ROS and lipid peroxidation products, and altered expressions of key proteins(P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionMBXT can effectively improve ovarian function and metabolic disorders in PCOS-IR rats. Its mechanism may be related to activating the AMPK/ACC signaling pathway, downregulating FASN and ACSL4 to reduce lipid peroxidation substrates, and restoring glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase/phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase(G6PD/PHGDH) metabolic flux to enhance the GPX4/FSP1 antioxidant defense system, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis in ovarian granulosa cells.
4.Construction and Application of "Source-Pivot-Convergence" Pattern Identification and Treatment Model for Malignant Tumors
Yuling JIANG ; Jiawei HE ; Yang ZHONG ; Chunxia HUANG ; Qiong MA ; Chuan ZHENG ; Xi FU ; Fengming YOU
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(9):956-960
Based on LI Gao's Academic Thought, focusing on the process of qi transformation and taking the regulation and restoration of metabolism and immunity as the entry point, a "source-pivot-convergence" diagnostic and therapeutic model for malignant tumors is constructed. In this model, spleen and stomach internal injury is the source of malignant tumor occurrence, while the disorder of ascending and descending is the pivot of the disease development, and the generation of yin fire is the convergence of malignant tumor progression. Based on this, the three major therapeutic methods of clearing the source, harmonizing the pivot, and resolving the convergence are established. To fortify spleen and boost qi, consolidate the root and clear the source, modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction(补中益气汤)can be used. To raise the clear and direct the turbid downward, regulate qi and harmonize the pivot, modified Shengyang Yiwei Decoction (升阳益胃汤) is suggested. To restore balance and promote circulation, disperse accumulation and resolve convergence, modified Shengyang Sanhuo Decoction (升阳散火汤) is selected. In clinical practice, these formulas can be used in combination according to the complexity of the pathogenesis, and further adapted with prescriptions for promoting dispersion and penetrating pathogenic factors, resolving phlegm and promoting circulation, activating blood and eliminating concretions, which can provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of tumor diseases.
5.Construction and Application of "Source-Pivot-Convergence" Pattern Identification and Treatment Model for Malignant Tumors
Yuling JIANG ; Jiawei HE ; Yang ZHONG ; Chunxia HUANG ; Qiong MA ; Chuan ZHENG ; Xi FU ; Fengming YOU
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(9):956-960
Based on LI Gao's Academic Thought, focusing on the process of qi transformation and taking the regulation and restoration of metabolism and immunity as the entry point, a "source-pivot-convergence" diagnostic and therapeutic model for malignant tumors is constructed. In this model, spleen and stomach internal injury is the source of malignant tumor occurrence, while the disorder of ascending and descending is the pivot of the disease development, and the generation of yin fire is the convergence of malignant tumor progression. Based on this, the three major therapeutic methods of clearing the source, harmonizing the pivot, and resolving the convergence are established. To fortify spleen and boost qi, consolidate the root and clear the source, modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction(补中益气汤)can be used. To raise the clear and direct the turbid downward, regulate qi and harmonize the pivot, modified Shengyang Yiwei Decoction (升阳益胃汤) is suggested. To restore balance and promote circulation, disperse accumulation and resolve convergence, modified Shengyang Sanhuo Decoction (升阳散火汤) is selected. In clinical practice, these formulas can be used in combination according to the complexity of the pathogenesis, and further adapted with prescriptions for promoting dispersion and penetrating pathogenic factors, resolving phlegm and promoting circulation, activating blood and eliminating concretions, which can provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of tumor diseases.
6.Effect of traditional Chinese medicine on ICIs treatment based on regulation of intestinal flora
Hua ZHANG ; Shansi ZOU ; Yaling ZHANG ; Ranpei ZHU ; Xiaoqing LI ; Yuling ZHENG
Chinese Journal of Immunology 2025;41(3):760-766
With the advent of era of tumor immunotherapy,effect of intestinal flora in immunotherapy has attracted much attention.A large number of studies have confirmed the role of traditional Chinese medicine in regulating intestinal flora.Based on this,this paper discusses and summarizes the effect and mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine intervention on tumor immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)treatment,providing a theoretical basis for in-depth understanding of the correlation between traditional Chinese medicine,intestinal flora and immunotherapy,and also providing new ideas for improving the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy and reducing immune-related adverse reactions.
7.Research progress of immune cells in pathogenesis of lupus nephritis
Shuangyu DAI ; Shuqiang QU ; Hanchen CHEN ; Yuling ZHENG
Journal of Chinese Physician 2025;27(2):318-320
Lupus nephritis (LN) is the most common complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The immune pathogenesis is closely related to the progression and clinical treatment of LN. This review reviews the relevant literature on the role of immune cells in the pathogenesis of LN at home and abroad. This paper summarized and analyzed the pathogenesis of immune cells in the pathogenesis of LN and the research progress of related targeted therapy, aiming to improve the understanding of the pathogenesis of immune cells in LN, improve the treatment status of LN and better improve the prognosis.
8.Effects of quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament versus erector spinae plane block on early postoperative recovery in patients undergoing posterior lumbar surgery
Yuling ZHONG ; Rong WEI ; Liuyu LU ; Xiaoyu KANG ; Yang LU ; Zheng GONG
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(17):2689-2695
Objective To compare the effects of quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament(QLB-LSAL)and erector spinae plane block(ESPB)on early postoperative recovery in patients undergoing posterior lumbar surgery.Methods Ninety-three patients,aged 25~70 years,BMI 18~30 kg/m2 and ASA physical status Ⅱ or Ⅲ and scheduled for posterior lumbar surgery,were randomly divided into QLB-LSAL combined with general anesthesia(Group Q),ESPB combined with general anesthesia(Group E),and general anesthesia alone(Group N).Postoperatively,all groups received patient-controlled intravenous analgesia(PCIA).The following parameters were recorded:the scores of Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale(RASS)and Bergman Comfort Scale(BCS)at awakening,6 h,12 h,and 24 h postoperatively;Likert scale score at PCIA cessation;the scores of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI)and Early Postoperative Quality of Recovery-15(QoR-15)at 1 day preopera-(P<0.05).(2)Compared with Group N,group Q exhibited lower PSQI scores and higher QoR-15 scores at 1 and 3 days postoperatively(P<0.05).No statistically significant difference in PSQI scores was observed between group E and N(P>0.05),while group E had higher QoR-15 score than group N only at 1 day postoperatively(P<0.05).Both at 1 and 3 days postoperatively,group Q had lower PSQI scores and higher QoR-15 scores than group E(P<0.05).(3)Postoperative awakening time,extubation time,PACU stay time,time to first anal exhaust and time to first ambulation were significantly shorter in group Q than those in group N(P<0.05).Group E only showed shorter time to first anal exhaust compared to group N(P<0.05).Furthermore,group Q had a significantly shorter PACU stay time than group E(P<0.01).(4)There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions among the three groups of patients.(P>0.05).Conclusions Both QLB-LSAL and ESPB effectively improve postoperative analgesia and early recovery quality.However,QLB-LSAL demonstrates advantages in enhancing patient comfort,analgesia satisfaction,sleep quality,and accelerating overall postoperative recovery.
9.Discussion on the Treatment of Lung Cancer by"Regulating Spirit and Invigorating Qi"Based on the View of"Chronic Stress-Tumor Immune Microenvironment"
Jinyu WEN ; Jiawei HE ; Chuan ZHENG ; Yang ZHONG ; Yuling JIANG ; Xi FU ; Fengming YOU ; Qiong MA
World Science and Technology-Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;27(8):2244-2253
Chronic stress triggers the imbalance of the homeostasis of the tumor immune microenvironment(TIME),which is a key factor driving the development of lung cancer.Based on the mapping relationship between the concept of"spirit"in traditional Chinese medicine and chronic stress,and between"qi"and"immunity",it is believed that the cross-linking mechanism of"chronic stress-TIME-lung cancer"aligns with the understanding of traditional Chinese medicine of disease as involving the interplay between the"body,qi and spirit".The disorganization of"spirit"and"qi"is not only the root of the change of the"form",but also the key to prevent and control it.The treatment principle of synergizing to improve the chronic stress of"regulating the spirit"and remodeling the TIME of"invigorating the qi"is further proposed,which emphasizes on grasping the core pathogenesis of lung cancer at each stage of its evolution in order to administer medicines,drawing on the clinical experience and pharmacological research results in order to accurately hit the target,and combining special therapies like acupuncture,Chinese kungfu,sound therapy to treat the change of"shape"by modulating neuro-endocrine-immune network homeostasis,so as to provide new ideas and accessible solutions for the comprehensive prevention and treatment system of lung cancer.
10.Effects of quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament versus erector spinae plane block on early postoperative recovery in patients undergoing posterior lumbar surgery
Yuling ZHONG ; Rong WEI ; Liuyu LU ; Xiaoyu KANG ; Yang LU ; Zheng GONG
The Journal of Practical Medicine 2025;41(17):2689-2695
Objective To compare the effects of quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament(QLB-LSAL)and erector spinae plane block(ESPB)on early postoperative recovery in patients undergoing posterior lumbar surgery.Methods Ninety-three patients,aged 25~70 years,BMI 18~30 kg/m2 and ASA physical status Ⅱ or Ⅲ and scheduled for posterior lumbar surgery,were randomly divided into QLB-LSAL combined with general anesthesia(Group Q),ESPB combined with general anesthesia(Group E),and general anesthesia alone(Group N).Postoperatively,all groups received patient-controlled intravenous analgesia(PCIA).The following parameters were recorded:the scores of Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale(RASS)and Bergman Comfort Scale(BCS)at awakening,6 h,12 h,and 24 h postoperatively;Likert scale score at PCIA cessation;the scores of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI)and Early Postoperative Quality of Recovery-15(QoR-15)at 1 day preopera-(P<0.05).(2)Compared with Group N,group Q exhibited lower PSQI scores and higher QoR-15 scores at 1 and 3 days postoperatively(P<0.05).No statistically significant difference in PSQI scores was observed between group E and N(P>0.05),while group E had higher QoR-15 score than group N only at 1 day postoperatively(P<0.05).Both at 1 and 3 days postoperatively,group Q had lower PSQI scores and higher QoR-15 scores than group E(P<0.05).(3)Postoperative awakening time,extubation time,PACU stay time,time to first anal exhaust and time to first ambulation were significantly shorter in group Q than those in group N(P<0.05).Group E only showed shorter time to first anal exhaust compared to group N(P<0.05).Furthermore,group Q had a significantly shorter PACU stay time than group E(P<0.01).(4)There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions among the three groups of patients.(P>0.05).Conclusions Both QLB-LSAL and ESPB effectively improve postoperative analgesia and early recovery quality.However,QLB-LSAL demonstrates advantages in enhancing patient comfort,analgesia satisfaction,sleep quality,and accelerating overall postoperative recovery.

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail