1.Research progress on the mechanism of action of rosmarinic acid in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Ke CAI ; Sheng-ru HUANG ; Fang-fang GAO ; Xiu-juan PENG ; Sheng GUO ; Feng LIU ; Jin-ao DUAN ; Shu-lan SU
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2025;60(1):12-21
With the rapid development of social economy and the continuous improvement of human living standard, the incidence, fatality and recurrence rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) are increasing year by year, which seriously affects people's life and health. Conventional therapeutic drugs have limited improvement on the disability rate, so the search for new therapeutic drugs and action targets has become one of the hotspots of current research. In recent years, the therapeutic role of the natural compound rosmarinic acid (RA) in CVD has attracted much attention, which is capable of preventing CVD by modulating multiple signalling pathways and exerting physiological activities such as antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet aggregation, as well as anti-coagulation and endothelial function protection. In this paper, the role of RA in the prevention of CVD is systematically sorted out, and its mechanism of action is summarised and analysed, with a view to providing a scientific basis and important support for the in-depth exploration of the prevention value of RA in CVD and its further development as a prevention drug.
2.Literature Based Analysis on Adverse Reactions in Simultaneously Clinical Use of Banxia (Rhizoma Pinelliae)- Wutou (Aconitum)
Can CAO ; Wenyong LIAO ; Jiwen ZHANG ; Yinghao WU ; Xiangnan XU ; Meijing WU ; Xiaoqing LIU ; Shaohong CHEN ; Haiyan LIU ; Linlin XIU ; Xiangqing CUI ; Gaoyang LI ; Ying ZHANG ; Gansheng ZHONG
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(9):955-962
ObjectiveTo analyze the adverse reactions associated with the clinical use of Banxia (Rhizoma Pinelliae)- Wutou (Aconitum) in the same formula, with the aim of providing a reference for the safety of their clinical application. MethodsLiterature on the clinical application of antagonistic herbs "Banxia-Wutou" used in the same formula, published from January 1st, 2014, to June 30th, 2023, was retrieved from databases including CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, SinoMed, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. A database was established, and information related to adverse reactions was extracted, including descriptions, classifications, specific manifestations, management and outcomes, patients' primary diseases (western medicine diseases and traditional Chinese medicine diagnoses and syndromes), and medication information (dosage, ratio, administration routes, and dosage forms). ResultsA total of 79 researches simultaneously used antagonistic herbs Banxia-Wutou in the same formula and reported associated advers reactions. Gastrointestinal adverse reactions were the most common, with 8 studies reporting management of adverse reactions and 3 studies reporting improvement with no intervention. Among the 11 researches, the adverse reaction relieved to extant, while other 69 researches didn't report the managment of adverse reaction and its prognosis. For the primary disease in western medicine system, chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were most common, while gastric pain was the most common symptom in traditional Chinese medicine with spleen and kidney deficiency and spleen stomach cold deficiency being the most frequent syndromes. The most common Banxia dosage was 10 g, while for the Wutou, Fuzi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata) was predominant with the highest dose at 15 g. The most frequent herbal combination was Banxia-fuzi, with a 1∶1 ratio. The main administration route was oral, and the primary dosage form was decoction. ConclusionGastrointestinal adverse reactions are the most common in the clinical use of Banxia-Wutou antagonistic herb combinations. Research on the safety of "Banxia-Wutou" combinations should focus on respiratory system diseases and spleen-stomach related conditions.
6.Reflections on Research and Development of New Tibetan Medicines Based on Ancient Famous Classical Formulas
Siyi LIU ; Xiu XIANG ; Wei HAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(18):261-267
With the increasing attention paid by the state to traditional medicine and the need for the inheritance and innovative development of Tibetan medicine in the new era, the research and development of new Tibetan medicines has attracted the attention of the industry. This article analyzes the characteristics of prescriptions, dosage forms, preparation methods, and processing of the 34 Tibetan medicine formulas included in the Catalogue of Ancient Famous Classical Formulas(Second Batch), discusses the problems and challenges in the research and development of ancient famous classical formulas of Tibetan medicine, and puts forward opinions and suggestions in order to promote the research and development of new Tibetan medicine. The main issues that may be encountered in the research and development of 34 Tibetan medicine formulas are as follows:①Some medicinal material resources are scarce, and planting/breeding technologies are not yet mature. Among the 34 formulas, there are not only ingredients derived from endangered protected animals, but also national second-class protected plants and rare high-altitude wild species. ②The quality control level of Tibetan medicinal materials urgently needs to be strengthened and improved. After review, among the 102 medicinal materials in the 34 Tibetan medicine formulas, there are 2 varieties that currently have no national or local medicinal material standards/decoction piece processing specifications. Excluding those without quality standards, the proportion of varieties without any quantitative testing items is 49%. ③There are a large number of mineral medicines in Tibetan medicine formulas, making quality control difficult. The proportion of formulas containing mineral medicines among the 34 formulas is 35%, and most of them have not yet established a targeted quality standard system. ④Some Tibetan medicinal materials in the 34 formulas have unclear origins, with issues such as different substances with the same name and the same substance with different names. ⑤The 34 formulas contain medicinal materials labeled as toxic or slightly toxic in the current quality standards. It is recommended to accelerate the verification of key information of Tibetan medicine, and on this basis, to intensify research on planting and breeding, quality control in response to the above issues. It is also suggested to encourage the rational use of new technologies and processes that are suitable for the characteristics of preparations to develop new drugs from ancient famous classical formulas of Tibetan medicine, and promote the inheritance and innovative development of Tibetan medicine.
7.THBS4 in Disease: Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Opportunities
De-Ying HUANG ; Yan-Hong LI ; Xiu-Feng BAI ; Yi LIU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(9):2217-2232
Thrombospondin 4 (THBS4; TSP4), a crucial component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), serves as an important regulator of tissue homeostasis and various pathophysiological processes. As a member of the evolutionarily conserved thrombospondin family, THBS4 is a multidomain adhesive glycoprotein characterized by six distinct structural domains that mediate its diverse biological functions. Through dynamic interactions with various ECM components, THBS4 plays pivotal roles in cell adhesion, proliferation, inflammation regulation, and tissue remodeling, establishing it as a key modulator of microenvironmental organization. The transcription and translation of THBS4 gene, as well as the activity of the THBS4 protein, are tightly regulated by multiple signaling pathways and extracellular cues. Positive regulators of THBS4 include transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), interferon-γ (IFNγ), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP12/13), and other regulatory factors (such as B4GALNT1, ITGA2/ITGB1, PDGFRβ, etc.), which upregulate THBS4 at the mRNA and/or protein level. Conversely, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OXLDL) acts as a potent negative regulator of THBS4. This intricate regulatory network ensures precise spatial and temporal control of THBS4 expression in response to diverse physiological and pathological stimuli. Functionally, THBS4 acts as a critical signaling hub, influencing multiple downstream pathways essential for cellular behavior and tissue homeostasis. The best-characterized pathways include: (1) the PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis, which THBS4 modulates through both direct and indirect interactions with integrins and growth factor receptors; (2) Wnt/β-catenin signaling, where THBS4 functions as either an activator or inhibitor depending on the cellular context; (3) the suppression of DBET/TRIM69, contributing to its diverse regulatory roles. These signaling connections position THBS4 as a master regulator of cellular responses to microenvironmental changes. Substantial evidence links aberrant THBS4 expression to a range of pathological conditions, including neoplastic diseases, cardiovascular disorders, fibrotic conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and atopic dermatitis. In cancer biology, THBS4 exhibits context-dependent roles, functioning either as a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on the tumor type and microenvironment. In the cardiovascular system, THBS4 contributes to both adaptive remodeling and maladaptive fibrotic responses. Its involvement in fibrotic diseases arises from its ability to regulate ECM deposition and turnover. The diagnostic and therapeutic potential of THBS4 is particularly promising in oncology and cardiovascular medicine. As a biomarker, THBS4 expression patterns correlate significantly with disease progression and patient outcomes. Therapeutically, targeting THBS4-mediated pathways offers novel opportunities for precision medicine approaches, including anti-fibrotic therapies, modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and enhancement of tissue repair. This comprehensive review systematically explores three key aspects of THBS4 research(1) the fundamental biological functions of THBS4 in ECM organization; (2) its mechanistic involvement in various disease pathologies; (3) its emerging potential as both a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target. By integrating recent insights from molecular studies, animal models, and clinical investigations, this review provides a framework for understanding the multifaceted roles of THBS4 in health and disease. The synthesis of current knowledge highlights critical research gaps and future directions for exploring THBS4-targeted interventions across multiple disease contexts. Given its unique position at the intersection of ECM biology and cellular signaling, THBS4 represents a promising frontier for the development of novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies in precision medicine.
8.Diagnostic Techniques and Risk Prediction for Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) Syndrome
Song HOU ; Lin-Shan ZHANG ; Xiu-Qin HONG ; Chi ZHANG ; Ying LIU ; Cai-Li ZHANG ; Yan ZHU ; Hai-Jun LIN ; Fu ZHANG ; Yu-Xiang YANG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(10):2585-2601
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and metabolic disorders are the 3 major chronic diseases threatening human health, which are closely related and often coexist, significantly increasing the difficulty of disease management. In response, the American Heart Association (AHA) proposed a novel disease concept of “cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome” in October 2023, which has triggered widespread concern about the co-treatment of heart and kidney diseases and the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders around the world. This review posits that effectively managing CKM syndrome requires a new and multidimensional paradigm for diagnosis and risk prediction that integrates biological insights, advanced technology and social determinants of health (SDoH). We argue that the core pathological driver is a “metabolic toxic environment”, fueled by adipose tissue dysfunction and characterized by a vicious cycle of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, which forms a common pathway to multi-organ injury. The at-risk population is defined not only by biological characteristics but also significantly impacted by adverse SDoH, which can elevate the risk of advanced CKM by a factor of 1.18 to 3.50, underscoring the critical need for equity in screening and care strategies. This review systematically charts the progression of diagnostic technologies. In diagnostics, we highlight a crucial shift from single-marker assessments to comprehensive multi-marker panels. The synergistic application of traditional biomarkers like NT-proBNP (reflecting cardiac stress) and UACR (indicating kidney damage) with emerging indicators such as systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and Klotho protein facilitates a holistic evaluation of multi-organ health. Furthermore, this paper explores the pivotal role of non-invasive monitoring technologies in detecting subclinical disease. Techniques like multi-wavelength photoplethysmography (PPG) and impedance cardiography (ICG) provide a real-time window into microcirculatory and hemodynamic status, enabling the identification of early, often asymptomatic, functional abnormalities that precede overt organ failure. In imaging, progress is marked by a move towards precise, quantitative evaluation, exemplified by artificial intelligence-powered quantitative computed tomography (AI-QCT). By integrating AI-QCT with clinical risk factors, the predictive accuracy for cardiovascular events within 6 months significantly improves, with the area under the curve (AUC) increasing from 0.637 to 0.688, demonstrating its potential for reclassifying risk in CKM stage 3. In the domain of risk prediction, we trace the evolution from traditional statistical tools to next-generation models. The new PREVENT equation represents a major advancement by incorporating key kidney function markers (eGFR, UACR), which can enhance the detection rate of CKD in primary care by 20%-30%. However, we contend that the future lies in dynamic, machine learning-based models. Algorithms such as XGBoost have achieved an AUC of 0.82 for predicting 365-day cardiovascular events, while deep learning models like KFDeep have demonstrated exceptional performance in predicting kidney failure risk with an AUC of 0.946. Unlike static calculators, these AI-driven tools can process complex, multimodal data and continuously update risk profiles, paving the way for truly personalized and proactive medicine. In conclusion, this review advocates for a paradigm shift toward a holistic and technologically advanced framework for CKM management. Future efforts must focus on the deep integration of multimodal data, the development of novel AI-driven biomarkers, the implementation of refined SDoH-informed interventions, and the promotion of interdisciplinary collaboration to construct an efficient, equitable, and effective system for CKM screening and intervention.
9.Mechanism of Astragaloside Ⅳ on db/db Mice with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Based on AMPK Signaling Pathway
Min ZHOU ; Xiu LIU ; Yongjun WU ; Qin XIANG ; Rong YU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2024;30(5):72-79
ObjectiveTo study the mechanism of astragaloside Ⅳ (AS Ⅳ) on db/db mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) based on network pharmacology and experimental validation. MethodA total of 24 db/db mice were randomly divided into four groups: model group, metformin group, and low-dose and high-dose AS Ⅳ groups. Six C57 mice were used as the blank group. The low-dose and high-dose AS Ⅳ groups were given AS Ⅳ of 0.015 and 0.030 g·kg-1 by gavage, and the metformin group was given 0.067 g·kg-1 by gavage. The blank and model groups were given equal volumes of distilled water by gavage. After intragastric administration, fasting blood glucose (FBG) was detected, and an oral glucose tolerance test was performed. Serum lipid level and liver histopathology were detected. The target and enrichment pathway of AS Ⅳ for treating T2DM and NAFLD were predicted by network pharmacology, and the main enrichment pathway was verified by molecular biology techniques. The protein expressions of AMPK, p-AMPK, sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1), and fatty acid synthetase (FAS) in liver tissue were detected by Western blot. ResultCompared with the blank group, the levels of body mass, liver weight coefficient, fasting blood glucose, serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in mice treated with AS Ⅳ were decreased (P<0.05, P<0.01). The pathology of liver tissue showed significant improvement in lipid accumulation, and imaging results showed that the degree of fatty liver was reduced after AS Ⅳ therapy. Network pharmacological prediction results showed that vascular endothelial growth factor α (VEGFA), galactoagglutinin 3 (LGALS3), serine/threonine kinase B2 (Akt2), RHO-associated coiled-coil protein kinase 1 (ROCK1), serine/threonine kinase B1 (Akt1), signaling and transcriptional activator protein (STAT3), and messtimal epidermal transformation factor (MET) were key targets in "drug-disease" network. The results from the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment showed that the AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway was strongly associated with T2DM and NAFLD. Western blot results showed that compared with the blank group, the expression levels of p-AMPK/AMPK in the model group were significantly down-regulated, while those of SREBP-1 and FAS proteins were significantly up-regulated (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the expression levels of p-AMPK/AMPK in the metformin group and high-dose AS Ⅳ group were significantly up-regulated, while those of SREBP-1 and FAS proteins were significantly down-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionAS Ⅳ regulates the expression of lipid proteins by activating the AMPK signaling pathway, thereby improving lipid metabolism.
10.Analysis of chemical constituents and components absorbed into plasma of Ardisia crenata based on UPLC-QE-HF-MS/MS
Hui SHI ; Xiao LI ; Ying ZHOU ; Jingxin DING ; Chang LIU ; Xiongwei LIU ; Xiu DONG ; Yun CHEN ; Tingting FENG
China Pharmacy 2024;35(3):316-321
OBJECTIVE To analyze the chemical constituents and components absorbed into plasma of the extract of Ardisia crenata and to elucidate its possible pharmacodynamic material basis. METHODS Overall, 12 rats were randomly assigned to the blank group (n=6) and A. crenata group (n=6) by the paired comparison method. The drug was administered once daily in the morning and afternoon for three days. Serum samples were prepared from serum after redosing on 4th day. The UPLC-QE-HF-MS/ MS was used to analyze and identify the chemical constituents in A. crenata extract and serum samples. Compound Discoverer 3.0 was employed for retention time correction, peak identification, and peak extraction. According to the secondary mass spectrometry information, the Thermo mzCloud online and Thermo mzVault local databases, referring to the relevant literature and control quality spectrum information were used to preliminarily identify the chemical constituents and components absorbed into plasma of A. crenata. RESULTS A total of 34 compounds were identified from the extract of A. crenata, mainly coumarins, flavonoids, organic acids, amino acids, including bergenin, quercetin, gallic acid, L-pyroglutamic acid, etc. Besides, 5 components absorbed into plasma were identified from serum samples: L-pyroglutamic acid, syringic acid, bergenin, cinnabar root saponin A, and mycophenolic acid. CONCLUSIONS L-pyroglutamic acid, syringic acid, bergenin, cinnabar root saponin A, and mycophenolic acid may act as the pharmacodynamic material basis of A. crenata.

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