1.Mechanism of Different Dosage Forms of Kaixinsan in Improving Mitochondrial Function for Prevention and Treatment of Cognitive Disorder Based on AMPK/PGC-1α/SIRT3 Pathway
Shuyue KANG ; Yanzi YU ; Jiaqun SUN ; Wenxuan CHEN ; Yaqin YANG ; Qi WANG ; Weirong LI ; Limei YAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):15-24
ObjectiveTo explore the effects of different dosage forms of Kaixinsan (KXS) on the morphology and function of mitochondria in rat models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and potential mechanisms of action. MethodsMale SD rats were randomly assigned to a sham group, model group, treatment groups receiving KXS decoction, powders, and granules (3.08 g·kg-1), as well as donepezil group (0.51×10-3 g·kg-1), with 10 rats in each group. AD model was created using intracerebroventricular injection of streptozocin (STZ). After 30 days of administration, behavioral assessments were conducted, and mitochondrial morphology was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex content was measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Changes in mitochondrial membrane potential were measured via JC-1 staining, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured via biochemical assays. The mRNA expression of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and silent information regulator 3 (SIRT3) was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR), and Western blot was used to examine the protein expression levels of optic atrophy protein1 (OPA1), mitochondrial fission protein 1 (FIS1), AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and SIRT3. ResultsCompared with the sham group, rats in the model group had significantly lower recognition index, spontaneous alternation rate, escape latency, number of platform crossings, time spent in the target quadrant, and percentage of distance traveled in the target quadrant distance (P<0.05, P<0.01). Significant mitochondrial damage was observed in the hippocampal tissue, with a marked decrease in mitochondrial respiratory chain complex content (P<0.01) and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.05). Additionally, the SOD activity was reduced, while ROS levels were elevated (P<0.01). The mRNA expression of PGC-1α and SIRT3 was significantly downregulated (P<0.01), along with decreased protein expression levels of OPA1, p-AMPK/AMPK, PGC-1α, and SIRT3, whereas FIS1 protein expression was significantly upregulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, rats in KXS-treated groups (various dosage forms) showed significant improvement in behavioral indexes (P<0.05, P<0.01), reduced hippocampal mitochondrial damage, and more organized mitochondrial cristae. Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex content was significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01), and mitochondrial membrane potentials were elevated (P<0.05). SOD activity was elevated, and ROS levels were significantly reduced (P<0.05, P<0.01). Furthermore, the mRNA expression of PGC-1α and SIRT3 was upregulated, with increased protein levels of OPA1, p-AMPK/AMPK, PGC-1α, and SIRT3, while FIS1 protein expression levels were significantly reduced (P<0.05, P<0.01). Across the KXS-treated groups, the granule group showed a higher spontaneous alternation rate than the decoction and powder groups (P<0.05). ConclusionKXS decoction, powders, and granules can improve the learning and memory ability of rats, with granules being the most effective. The mechanism of action may involve activation of the AMPK/PGC-1α/SIRT3 signaling pathway, improvement of the mitochondrial function, and subsequent amelioration of the brain energy metabolism disorders.
2.Research advances in the disease burden of viral hepatitis in China
Jian LI ; Fuzhen WANG ; Zhongdan CHEN ; Jinlei QI ; Ailing WANG ; Fanghui ZHAO ; Yuanyuan KONG ; Jing SUN ; Jiaqi KANG ; Zundong YIN ; Zhongfu LIU ; Jidong JIA ; Yu WANG
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2025;41(2):221-227
Over the past three decades, China has made significant progress in the prevention and control of viral hepatitis, and the incidence rates of new-onset pediatric hepatitis B virus infections and acute viral hepatitis in the population have reduced to a relatively low level; however, there is still a heavy disease burden of chronic viral hepatitis in China, which severely affects the health status of the population. This study systematically summarizes the achievements of viral hepatitis prevention and control in China, analyzes existing problems and challenges, and proposes comprehensive prevention and control strategies and measures to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat based on the national conditions of China, in order to provide a reference for related departments in China on how to achieve the action targets for eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.
3.Analysis and evaluation of platelet bank establishment strategy from the perspective of donor loss
Zheng LIU ; Yamin SUN ; Xin PENG ; Yiqing KANG ; Ziqing WANG ; Jintong ZHU ; Juan DU ; Jianbin LI
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2025;38(2):238-243
[Objective] To analyze the loss rate of platelet donors and evaluate the strategies for establishing a platelet donor bank. [Methods] A total of 1 443 donors who joined the HLA and HPA gene donor bank for platelets in Henan Province from 2018 to 2020 were included in this study. Data on the total number of apheresis platelet donations, annual donation frequency, age at enrollment, donation habits (including the number of platelets donated per session and whether they had previously donated whole blood), and enrollment location were collected from the platelet donor information management system. Donor loss was determined based on the date of their last donation. The loss rates of different groups under various conditions were compared to assess the enrollment strategies. [Results] By the time the platelet bank was officially operational in 2022, 421 donors had been lost, resulting in an loss rate of 29% (421/1 443). By the end of 2023, the overall cumulative loss rate reached 52% (746/1 443). The loss rate was lower than the overall level in groups meeting any of the following conditions: total apheresis platelet donations exceeding 50, annual donation frequency of 10 or more, age at enrollment of 40 years or older, donation of more than a single therapeutic dose per session, or a history of whole blood donation two or more times. Additionally, loss rates varied across different enrollment locations, with higher enrollment numbers generally associated with higher loss rates. [Conclusion] Through a comprehensive analysis of donor loss, our center has adjusted its strategies for establishing the donor pool. These findings also provide valuable insights for other blood collection and supply institutions in building platelet donor banks.
4.Gualou Xiebai Banxiatang in Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Review
Yalong KANG ; Bo NING ; Juanjuan TAN ; Hongfei QI ; Yan SHI ; Fang GUAN ; Haifang WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(2):256-267
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD),a group of common diseases in clinical practice,are witnessing a steady rise in both incidence and mortality rates,posing a challenge to public health. Gualou Xiebai Banxiatang,originating from Synopsis of the Golden Chamber (《金匮要略》),was initially used to treat severe cases of chest impediment. The formula consists of Trichosanthis Fructus,Allii Macrostemonis Bulbus,Pinelliae Rhizoma,and Baijiu. It has a wide range of clinical applications,with therapeutic effects including moving Qi to relieve depression,activating Yang to dissipate mass,and expelling phlegm to alleviate chest congestion. In recent years,clinical research has confirmed that Gualou Xiebai Banxiatang,with or without modification,used alone or in combination with Western medicine,has definite effects in the treatment of CVD such as hyperlipidemia,coronary atherosclerotic heart disease,hypertension,heart failure,and arrhythmia. It can alleviate disease symptoms and reduce the risk of re-hospitalization. Basic research indicates that the mechanisms of Gualou Xiebai Banxiatang include improving endothelial functions,exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties,countering oxidative stress,preventing apoptosis,inhibiting ventricular remodeling,regulating mitochondrial functions,improving hemorheology,and modulating autophagy and neurotransmitters. This article reviews relevant articles in recent years with focuses on the compatibility,clinical application,and mechanism of Gualou Xiebai Banxiatang. This review is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the mechanism research and clinical application of this formula in treating CVD and to offer ideas and reference for in-depth research.
5.Naoqingtong Decoction Ameliorates Kidney Damage in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats via NLRP3 Inflammasomes
Jiaxin JU ; Caocao CHENG ; Teng GE ; Yalong KANG ; Fang GUAN ; Haifang WANG ; Juanjuan TAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(4):125-131
ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of Naoqingtong decoction (NQT) on the kidney damage and the inflammatory factors NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a C-terminal caspase recruitment domain (ASC), cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase-1 (Caspase-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). MethodsTwenty-four SHRs were randomized into a model group, a low-dose (12.9 g·kg-1·d-1) NQT (NQT-L) group, a high-dose (25.8 g·kg-1·d-1) NQT group (NQT-H), and a captopril (CTP, 20 mg·kg-1·d-1) group, with 6 rats in each group. In addition, 6 homozygous male Wistar-Kyoto rats were used as the control group. The control and model groups were administrated with the same amount of normal saline by gavage for 8 weeks. General behaviors of rats were observed during the intervention period, and the blood pressure was measured periodically. At the end of intervention, the body mass was weighed, and both kidneys were collected and weighed for the calculation of the renal index. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to observe the pathological changes in the kidney tissue. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) and Western blot were employed to determine the expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the kidney tissue. ResultsDuring the experiment period, the control group had normal mental status, food intake, and activity, while the model group showed thinning of hair, loss of luster, reduced activity, loss of appetite, fecal adhesion, and irritability, and some of the skin had scratches or blood scabs. The above symptoms were alleviated to different degrees after 8 weeks of NQT administration. An intelligent non-invasive sphygmomanometer was used to measure the tail artery pressure of rats, which showed that the systolic and diastolic blood pressure of rats in the model group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, drug interventions lowered the systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the control group, the model group showed severe pathological damage in the kidney tissue, which was alleviated in each drug intervention group. Compared with the control group, the model group showed up-regulated expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the kidney tissue (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the drug intervention groups showed down-regulated expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the kidney tissue (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionNQT can lower the blood pressure in SHRs by inhibiting the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes, suppressing renal inflammation, and ameliorating hypertensive kidney damage.
6.Advances in neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced resectable esophageal cancer
Xiaozheng KANG ; Ruixiang ZHANG ; Zhen WANG ; Xiankai CHEN ; Yong LI ; Jianjun QIN ; Yin LI
Chinese Journal of Clinical Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2025;32(02):153-159
Neoadjuvant therapy has become the standard treatment for locally advanced resectable esophageal cancer, significantly improving long-term survival compared to surgery alone. Neoadjuvant therapy has evolved to include various strategies, such as concurrent chemoradiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted combination therapy. This enriches clinical treatment options and provides a more personalized and scientific treatment approach for patients. This article aims to comprehensively summarize current academic research hot topics, review the rationale and evaluation measures of neoadjuvant therapy, discuss challenges in restaging methods after neoadjuvant therapy, and identify the advantages and disadvantages of various neoadjuvant therapeutic strategies.
7.Challenges and future directions of medicine with artificial intelligence
Xiaoqin ZHOU ; Huizhen LIU ; Ting WANG ; Xueting LIU ; Fang LIU ; Deying KANG
Chinese Journal of Clinical Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2025;32(02):244-251
This comprehensive review systematically explores the multifaceted applications, inherent challenges, and promising future directions of artificial intelligence (AI) within the medical domain. It meticulously examines AI's specific contributions to basic medical research, disease prevention, intelligent diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, nursing, and health management. Furthermore, the review delves into AI's innovative practices and pivotal roles in clinical trials, hospital administration, medical education, as well as the realms of medical ethics and policy formulation. Notably, the review identifies several key challenges confronting AI in healthcare, encompassing issues such as inadequate algorithm transparency, data privacy concerns, absent regulatory standards, and incomplete risk assessment frameworks. Looking ahead, the future trajectory of AI in healthcare encompasses enhancing algorithm interpretability, propelling generative AI applications, establishing robust data-sharing mechanisms, refining regulatory policies and standards, nurturing interdisciplinary talent, fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and medical institutions, and advancing inclusive, personalized precision medicine. Emphasizing the synergy between AI and emerging technologies like 5G, big data, and cloud computing, this review anticipates a new era of intelligent collaboration and inclusive sharing in healthcare. Through a multidimensional analysis, it presents a holistic overview of AI's medical applications and development prospects, catering to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in the healthcare sector. Ultimately, this review aims to catalyze the deep integration and innovative deployment of AI technology in healthcare, thereby driving the sustainable advancement of smart healthcare.
8.Mechanism of Different Dosage Forms of Kaixinsan in Improving Mitochondrial Function for Prevention and Treatment of Cognitive Disorder Based on AMPK/PGC-1α/SIRT3 Pathway
Shuyue KANG ; Yanzi YU ; Jiaqun SUN ; Wenxuan CHEN ; Yaqin YANG ; Qi WANG ; Weirong LI ; Limei YAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(7):15-24
ObjectiveTo explore the effects of different dosage forms of Kaixinsan (KXS) on the morphology and function of mitochondria in rat models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and potential mechanisms of action. MethodsMale SD rats were randomly assigned to a sham group, model group, treatment groups receiving KXS decoction, powders, and granules (3.08 g·kg-1), as well as donepezil group (0.51×10-3 g·kg-1), with 10 rats in each group. AD model was created using intracerebroventricular injection of streptozocin (STZ). After 30 days of administration, behavioral assessments were conducted, and mitochondrial morphology was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex content was measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Changes in mitochondrial membrane potential were measured via JC-1 staining, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured via biochemical assays. The mRNA expression of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and silent information regulator 3 (SIRT3) was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR), and Western blot was used to examine the protein expression levels of optic atrophy protein1 (OPA1), mitochondrial fission protein 1 (FIS1), AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, and SIRT3. ResultsCompared with the sham group, rats in the model group had significantly lower recognition index, spontaneous alternation rate, escape latency, number of platform crossings, time spent in the target quadrant, and percentage of distance traveled in the target quadrant distance (P<0.05, P<0.01). Significant mitochondrial damage was observed in the hippocampal tissue, with a marked decrease in mitochondrial respiratory chain complex content (P<0.01) and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.05). Additionally, the SOD activity was reduced, while ROS levels were elevated (P<0.01). The mRNA expression of PGC-1α and SIRT3 was significantly downregulated (P<0.01), along with decreased protein expression levels of OPA1, p-AMPK/AMPK, PGC-1α, and SIRT3, whereas FIS1 protein expression was significantly upregulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, rats in KXS-treated groups (various dosage forms) showed significant improvement in behavioral indexes (P<0.05, P<0.01), reduced hippocampal mitochondrial damage, and more organized mitochondrial cristae. Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex content was significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01), and mitochondrial membrane potentials were elevated (P<0.05). SOD activity was elevated, and ROS levels were significantly reduced (P<0.05, P<0.01). Furthermore, the mRNA expression of PGC-1α and SIRT3 was upregulated, with increased protein levels of OPA1, p-AMPK/AMPK, PGC-1α, and SIRT3, while FIS1 protein expression levels were significantly reduced (P<0.05, P<0.01). Across the KXS-treated groups, the granule group showed a higher spontaneous alternation rate than the decoction and powder groups (P<0.05). ConclusionKXS decoction, powders, and granules can improve the learning and memory ability of rats, with granules being the most effective. The mechanism of action may involve activation of the AMPK/PGC-1α/SIRT3 signaling pathway, improvement of the mitochondrial function, and subsequent amelioration of the brain energy metabolism disorders.
9.Progress in the application of poloxamer in new preparation technology
Xue QI ; Yi CHENG ; Nan LIU ; Zengming WANG ; Hui ZHANG ; Aiping ZHENG ; Dongzhou KANG
China Pharmacy 2025;36(5):630-635
Poloxamer, as a non-ionic surfactant, exhibits a unique triblock [polyethylene oxide-poly (propylene oxide)-polyethylene oxide] structure, which endows it with broad application potential in various fields, including solid dispersion technology, nanotechnology, gel technology, biologics, gene engineering and 3D printing. As a carrier, it enhances the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. In the field of nanotechnology, it serves as a stabilizer etc., enriching preparation methods. In gel technology, its self-assembly behavior and thermosensitive properties facilitate controlled drug release. In biologics, it improves targeting efficiency and reduces side effects. In gene engineering, it enhances delivery efficiency and expression levels. In 3D printing, it provides novel strategies for precise drug release control and the production of high-quality biological products. As a versatile material, poloxamer holds promising prospects in the pharmaceutical field.
10.Establishment and stress analysis of a finite element model for adolescent cervical disc herniation
Yuxin ZHAO ; Liang LIANG ; Feng JIN ; Yangyang XU ; Zhijie KANG ; Yuan FANG ; Yujie HE ; Xing WANG ; Haiyan WANG ; Xiaohe LI
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2025;29(3):448-454
BACKGROUND:Cervical disc herniation can cause pain in the neck and shoulder area,as well as radiating pain in the upper limbs.The incidence rate is increasing year by year and tends to affect younger individuals.Fully understanding the biomechanical characteristics of the cervical spine in adolescents is of great significance for preventing and delaying the onset of cervical disc herniation in this age group. OBJECTIVE:To reconstruct cervical spine models for both healthy adolescents and adolescent patients with cervical disc herniation utilizing finite element analysis techniques,to analyze the motion range of the C1-T1 cervical vertebrae as well as the biomechanical characteristics of the annulus fibrosus,nucleus pulposus,endplates,and the cartilage of the small joints. METHODS:A normal adolescent's cervical spine and an adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation were selected in this study.The continuous scan cervical spine CT raw image data were imported into Mimics 21.0 in DICOM format.The C1-T1 vertebrae were reconstructed separately.Subsequently,the established models were imported into the 3-Matic software for disc reconstruction.The perfected models were then imported into Hypermesh software for meshing of the vertebrae,nucleus pulposus,annulus fibrosus,and ligaments,creating valid geometric models.After assigning material properties,the final models were imported into ABAQUS software to observe the joint motion range of the C1-C7 cervical vertebrae segments under different conditions,and to analyze the biomechanical characteristics of the annulus fibrosus,nucleus pulposus,endplates,and small joint cartilage of each cervical spine segment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)In six different conditions,the joint motion range of the C1 vertebra in the cervical spine models of both normal adolescent and adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation was higher than that of the other vertebrae.Additionally,the joint motion range of each cervical spine segment in normal adolescent was greater than that in adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation.(2)In the cervical spine model of normal adolescent,the maximum stress values in the annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus were found on the left side during C2-3 flexion conditions(0.43 MPa and 0.17 MPa,respectively).In the cervical spine model of adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation,the maximum stress values were found on the left side during C7-T1 flexion conditions(0.54 MPa and 0.18 MPa,respectively).(3)In the cervical spine model of normal adolescent,the maximum stress value on the endplate was found on the left side of the upper endplate of C3 during flexion conditions(1.46 MPa).In the model of adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation,the maximum stress value on the endplate was found on the left side of the lower endplate of C7 during flexion conditions(1.32 MPa).(4)In the cervical spine model of normal adolescent,the maximum stress value in the small joint cartilage was found in the C2-3 left rotation conditions(0.98 MPa).In adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation,the stress in the small joint cartilage significantly increased under different conditions,especially in C1-2,with the maximum stress found during left flexion(3.50 MPa).(5)It is concluded that compared to normal adolescent,adolescent patient with cervical disc herniation exhibits altered cervical curvature and a decrease in overall joint motion range in the cervical spine.In adolescent with cervical disc herniation,there is a significant increase in stress on the annulus fibrosus,nucleus pulposus,and endplates in the C7-T1 segment.The stress on the left articular cartilage of the C1-2 is notable.Abnormal cervical curvature may be the primary factor causing these stress changes.

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