1.Mechanism of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang in Treatment of Sarcopenia Associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis by Improving Skeletal Muscle Homeostasis Through Regulation of Autophagy
Yakun WAN ; Yuan LIU ; Yuan QU ; Jingyu GUO ; Ting LIU ; Zhihui BAI ; Di ZHANG ; Ping JIANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(16):12-23
ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the mechanism of action of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-associated sarcopenia by regulating autophagy and improving skeletal muscle homeostasis based on network pharmacology,bioinformatics,machine learning,and animal experiments. MethodsActive ingredients and targets of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang were screened using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP),PubChem,and SwissTargetPrediction databases. RA-related datasets were retrieved from the GEO database,and differential genes were screened. Sarcopenia-related targets were searched through GeneCards and the Comparative Toxicology Database (CTD),and autophagy-related gene sets were downloaded from the Human Autophagy Database (HADb). Their intersection was analyzed to identify autophagy-related therapeutic targets,followed by enrichment analysis. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database,and key targets were selected using multiple methods. Machine learning was applied to predict models based on the expression profiles of intersecting targets,and nomogram models were constructed based on key targets. Molecular docking of the top four active ingredients with key targets was performed using AutoDockVina. A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was established using bovine type Ⅱ collagen,with SD rats divided into groups including a blank group,a model group,and low-,medium-,and high-dose groups of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang (2.44,4.88,and 9.76 g·kg-1) and administered for five consecutive weeks. Joint scores and gastrocnemius muscle mass were recorded and analyzed after modeling. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and Masson's staining were used to observe pathological changes in muscle tissue. Immunofluorescence staining was applied to observe the protein expression levels of myosin heavy chain (MYHC) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in skeletal muscle. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of autophagy-related proteins ATG5,Beclin1,LC3B,muscle-specific proteins (MuRF1),MaFbx,and MYHC. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (Real-time PCR) was performed to measure the mRNA expression levels of ATG5,Beclin1,LC3B,MuRF1,MaFbx,and MYHC in muscle tissue. ResultsNetwork pharmacology revealed that Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang shared 25 common targets with autophagy genes related to RA-associated sarcopenia. The PPI network and machine learning identified six key targets,which were primarily involved in autophagy and inflammatory pathways. Animal experiments showed that compared to the blank group,the model group had significantly higher joint scores (P<0.01) and lower gastrocnemius muscle index (P<0.01). HE staining indicated a significant reduction in the cross-sectional area of gastrocnemius muscle fibers,with notable inflammatory cell infiltration and muscle atrophy in the model group. Masson's staining revealed obvious collagen fiber proliferation and deposition,with significant muscle fibrosis in the model group. The protein and mRNA expression levels of ATG5,Beclin1,LC3B,MuRF1,and MaFbx were significantly increased (P<0.01),while the protein expression of MYHC and IGF1 was significantly downregulated (P<0.01). Compared with the model group,the high-dose group of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang showed significantly reduced protein and mRNA expression levels of ATG5,Beclin1,LC3B,MuRF1,and MaFbx (P<0.01) and increased protein expression levels of MYHC and IGF1 (P<0.01). The cross-sectional area of muscle fibers increased,and the muscle cell morphology approached normal. Moreover,pathological abnormalities in the gastrocnemius muscle were significantly improved,with reduced collagen fiber proliferation (P<0.01). ConclusionHuangqi Guizhi Wuwutang can mediate autophagy by regulating the expression of ATG5,Beclin1,LC3B,and IGF1,thereby reducing skeletal muscle catabolism and improving skeletal muscle homeostasis,which contributes to the treatment of RA-associated sarcopenia. The findings provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the effects of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang in the treatment of RA-related sarcopenia and offer a reference for its enhanced clinical application.
2.Analysis of risk factors for iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm after cardiovascular interventional procedures
Guoyun WANG ; Huangzhuonan CHEN ; Zhihui WU ; Menglu BI ; Hexiu LIU ; Nina QU ; Xiaoli CAO
Journal of Interventional Radiology 2024;33(6):646-650
Objective To analyze the risk factors for iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm(PSA)occurring after cardiovascular interventional procedures.Methods The clinical data of 48 patients,who developed PSA after receiving cardiovascular interventional procedure at the Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of China between January 2018 and December 2022,were retrospectively analyzed.The control group included 192 patients who had no PSA.At a case-control ratio of 1∶4,the PSA patients and non-PSA patients were paired,and the paired indicators included age,and puncture site.Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the patients'basic data,hematological examination,and situation of the interventional procedure,and the independent risk factors were screened out.Results Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the high body mass index(BMI,OR=1.324,95%CI=1.097-1.598,P=0.003),smoking history(OR=4.477,95%CI=1.599-12.536,P=0.004),use of antiplatelet agents(OR=4.861,95%CI=1.018-23.214,P=0.047),combination use of antiplatelet and anticoagulant(OR=26.994,95%CI=2.353-309.686,P=0.008),the operator of the interventional procedure being an attending physician(OR=5.817,95%CI=1.139-29.717,P=0.034),low haemoglobin level(OR=0.946,95%CI=0.922-0.971,P<0.01),elevated D-dimer level(OR=2.407,95%CI=1.367-4.239,P=0.002),long-time interventional operation(OR=1.019,95%CI=1.005-1.033,P=0.009),and sheath size>6 F(OR=4.368,95%CI=1.196-15.947,P=0.026)were the independent risk factors for PSA occurring after cardiovascular interventional surgery.Conclusion High BMI,smoking history,use of antiplatelet agents,combination use of antiplatelet and anticoagulant,the operator of the interventional procedure being an attending physician,low haemoglobin level,elevated D-dimer level,long-time interventional operation,and sheath size>6 F are the independent risk factors for PSA occurring after cardiovascular interventional procedure,which can provide a basis for the early prevention of PSA.(J Intervent Radiol,2024,33:646-650)
3.Microbial remediation of cadmium-contaminated soils and its mechanisms: a review.
Wenting XU ; Guoliang CHEN ; Zhihui QU ; Bixin LIANG ; Teng MAO ; Huan LIANG ; Zhang CHEN ; Zhixian LI
Chinese Journal of Biotechnology 2023;39(7):2612-2623
Excessive levels of cadmium (Cd) in soil exert serious negative impacts on soil ecosystems. Microorganisms are a common component of soil and show great potential for mitigating soil Cd. This review summarizes the application and remediation mechanisms of microorganisms, microbial-plants, and microbial-biochar in Cd-contaminated soil. Microorganisms such as Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can change the biological validity of Cd through adsorption, mineralization, precipitation and dissolution. Different factors such as pH, temperature, biomass, concentration, and duration have significant effects on Cd bioavailability by microorganisms. Pseudomonas, Burkholderia, and Flavobacterium can promote the uptake of Cd2+ by hyperaccumulator through promotion and activation. Biochar, a soil amendment, possesses unique physicochemical properties and could act as a shelter for microorganisms in agriculture. The use of combined microbial-biochar can further stabilize Cd compared to using biochar alone.
Cadmium
;
Ecosystem
;
Soil Pollutants
;
Charcoal/chemistry*
;
Soil/chemistry*
4.Study on the quality control improvement of Dilong Shenmai oral liquid
Dong LIU ; Zhihui HUA ; Zhe HAO ; Jun QU ; Lijun WANG ; Mingchun LI
Journal of Pharmaceutical Practice 2021;39(1):68-72
Objective To improve the quality control of Dilong Shenmai oral liquid. Methods TLC was used for the qualitative identification of Astragali Radix, Ophiopogonis Radix and Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus in Dilong Shenmai oral liquid. HPLC was used to determine the contents of schisandrin and ethylparaben in the preparation. Wondasil C18 column (250 mm×4.6 mm, 5 μm) was used with acetonitrile-water as the mobile phase at the flow rate of 1.0 ml/min for gradient elution. The detection wavelength was set at 254 nm, and column temperature was 30 ℃. Results TLC spots were clear and well-separated without negative interference. The linear ranges of schisandrin and ethylparaben were 5.81−58.06 μg/ml (r=0.999 9) and 25.29−252.94 μg/ml (r=0.999 9). The average recoveries were 99.35% (RSD=1.02%) and 99.72% (RSD=0.76%). Conclusion This method is simple, quick and accurate. It can be used for effective quality control of Dilong Shenmai oral liquid.
5.Serological and molecular studies of a rare A subgroup.
Bin HAN ; Yuli ZHU ; Yahui QU ; Li LIU ; Zhihui FENG
Chinese Journal of Medical Genetics 2021;38(8):807-808
OBJECTIVE:
To determine the genotype of an individual suspected for Aw through DNA sequencing.
METHODS:
Serologic testing was carried out with standard methods. Exons 6 and 7 of the ABO genes were amplified by PCR and subjected to direct sequencing or sequenced after gene cloning.
RESULTS:
Serological testing showed that the forward typing and reverse typing were Aw and A, respectively. DNA sequencing revealed that the individual has carried an Aw allele and an O allele. Haplotype sequencing of each allele has revealed a nt543 variant (543G>C) in the Aw allele.
CONCLUSION
The individual was verified as a rare A subtype, which was previously unreported in mainland China.
ABO Blood-Group System/genetics*
;
Alleles
;
Exons
;
Genotype
;
Humans
;
Phenotype
6.Longitudinal analysis of myopia and refractive errors screening results in adolescents in a community in Shanghai
ZHU Tianzhu, YUAN Ye, ZHOU Zhihui, HUANG Li, SHEN Huihua, QU Xiaomeng, CHI Sihan
Chinese Journal of School Health 2021;42(6):931-934
Objective:
To understand the longitudinal changes of refractive errors in adolescent myopia screening in the suburb of Shanghai, and to provide reference for targeted measures of myopia prevention and intervention.
Methods:
By using the cluster sampling method, 1 346 students were selected from two primary schools in a town in the suburb of Shanghai. Physical development indicators and refractive examination parameters of non ciliary muscle paralysis, and uncorrected visual acuity in 2017 and 2020 were collected from the Shanghai adolescent refractive development file. Longitudinal change of spherical equivalent (SE) refractive were assessed. A linear regression model was used to examine the relationship between the rate of SE change with characteristics of the students.
Results:
The average annual incidence of myopia was 16.36%, and the SE degrees of the left and right eyes of myopia students decreased by 225 degrees for three years. Girls (right eye Z=-4.33; left eye Z=-3.75, P<0.01), newly-onset myopia and persistent myopia (right eye Z=634.45; left eye Z=638.85, P<0.01) was a key for the rapid progress of refractive power.
Conclusion
The proportion of students with severe low vision is relatively high, and the apparent shifts toward more hyperopia in myopia students call for effective prevention and control programs based on changes in refractive to slow the progression of adolescent myopia.
7.Application of jugular bulb oxygen saturation in the treatment of severe traumatic brain injury
Zhihui CHENG ; Hongpeng LI ; Wei QU ; Xiang ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Primary Medicine and Pharmacy 2019;26(8):939-942
Objective To investigate the application of jugular bulb oxygen saturation (SjvO2) in the treat-ment of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI).Methods From August 2016 to August 2017,fifty-three patients with sTBI admitted to intensive care unit ( ICU) of Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences were randomly divided into the intracranial pressure - guided treatment group ( ICP group) and the SjvO2 -guided treatment group (SjvO2 group) by draw lots method.The patients in ICP group ( n=25) were treated according to the routine regimen,and the SjvO2 group (n=28) was dynamically detected SjvO2,and the SjvO2 was maintained at the target range of 55% -75% by adjusting the treatment scheme in addition to the routine treatment regimen.The early GCS score,GOS score and the mortality rate were compared between the two groups three months after injury.Results A total of 36% (9/25) patients had SjvO2 <55% events within 3 days after injury.On the fourth day after injury,the GCS score in the SjvO2 group was better than that in the ICP group [(7.17 ± 1.41)points vs.(6.91 ± 1.10)points,t=1.78,P=0.03],and there was no statistically significant difference in mortality between the two groups at 90 days after injury ( P=0.80).The SjvO2 group had a better prognosis rate compared with ICP group (24.00% vs.10.70% ,χ2 =2.31,P=0.05).Conclusion The treatment strategy of sTBI patients guided by SjvO2 can improve early consciousness level and improve the overall prognosis of sTBI patients.
8.Application of flexible ambrosia for body weight control among youths
Wenjing GONG ; Qingjian HUANG ; Dawen GAO ; Wubin QU ; Zhihui LI ; Yiming LU ; Yan GAO ; Peijin LI ; Chenggang ZHANG
Military Medical Sciences 2016;40(8):651-656
Objective To evaluate whether flexible ambrosia,by which people can take special prebiotics instead of dining to alleviate their sense of hunger is a healthy, safe and effective weight loss method by analyzing the effects of flexible ambrosia on body weight, body composition, physiological and chemical indexes of young volunteers.Methods Young volunteers were tested on flexible ambrosia for seven days using special prebiotics instead of normal food.Body weight, waist circumference, body composition and blood biochemical indexes ( blood pressure, blood glucose, liver function, renal function, blood electrolyte, and blood lipid ) were measured and recorded before and after the test respectively.The volunteers′subjective feelings ( hunger, energy, fatigue, etc) were recorded during the test every day by way of e-form records.Results All volunteers of the flexible ambrosia test reduced their body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, visceral fat index (VAI) and body fat rate (Fat,%)significantly (P<0.01)in seven days, while the body water rate, muscle mass, body protein and bone did not significantly change or rise.There was no significant functional abnormity of the liver kidney, or blood electrolytes and blood lipid.All volunteers were in good physical condition, high-spirited and slept well, high quality sleep, without any obvious hunger and fatigue response in seven days.Conclusion Flexible ambrosia seems to be a healthy, safe and effective method, and provides an important scientific basis and reference for weight loss in the military.
9.Clinical evaluation of periodontal flap surgery with the use of dental microscope
Fuchun FANG ; Buling WU ; Qian QU ; Jie GAO ; Min CHEN ; Zhihui TIAN ; Zhendong GONG
Journal of Practical Stomatology 2015;(5):696-699
Objective:To evaluate the effects of periodontal flap surgery with the aid of microscope in the treatment of patients with chronic periodontitis(CP).Methods:30 patients with CP included in the study were randomly divided into 2 groups.Patients in the experiment group received periodontal flap surgery with the aid of microscope,while those in the control group received the routine flap surgery.The VAS pain scores were compared 1 ,3 and 7 days after surgery.The periodontal parameters were compared 3 and 6 months after surgery between 2 groups.Results:The VAS pain score in the experiment group was significantly lower than that in the control group 1 and 3 days (P =0.01 7 and 0.004)after surgery;the periodontal probing depth in the experiment group was significantly lower than that in the control group 3 and 6 months (P =0.01 0 and 0.047)after surgery.Conclusion:The periodontal probing depth,gin-gival recession and clinical attachment level can be improved and the pain can be reduced in the treatment of CP patients with the aid of microscope in the periodontal flap surgery.
10.Combination of duplex PCR technology with capillary electrophoresis is an alterna-tive method to validate the result of transcriptome sequencing
Jianming YI ; Yan GAO ; Zhihui LI ; Yanchun ZHANG ; Wubin QU ; Chenggang ZHANG
Military Medical Sciences 2014;(9):724-728
Objective To establish a method to validate the result of transcriptome sequencing using duplex PCR tech -nology combined with capillary electrophoresis .Methods According to a previous study on transcriptome sequencing , eight differentially expressed genes were chosen as target genes for examination .The mRNA expression level of these genes was detected using duplex PCR combined with agarose gel electrophoresis , duplex PCR combined with capillary electropho-resis and Q-PCR, respectively.Then, the verification efficiency of each method was evaluated carefully .Results The ver-ification efficiency of duplex PCR combined with agarose gel electrophoresis was 50%, while that of duplex PCR combined with capillary electrophoresis and Q-PCR was both 100%.Conclusion Combination of duplex PCR technology with capil-lary electrophoresis can be used as an alternative method to validate the results of transcriptome sequencing .


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