1.Optimization of simmering technology of Rheum palmatum from Menghe Medical School and the changes of chemical components after processing
Jianglin XUE ; Yuxin LIU ; Pei ZHONG ; Chanming LIU ; Tulin LU ; Lin LI ; Xiaojing YAN ; Yueqin ZHU ; Feng HUA ; Wei HUANG
China Pharmacy 2025;36(1):44-50
OBJECTIVE To optimize the simmering technology of Rheum palmatum from Menghe Medical School and compare the difference of chemical components before and after processing. METHODS Using appearance score, the contents of gallic acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), sennoside A+sennoside B, combined anthraquinone and free anthraquinone as indexes, analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-entropy weight method was used to calculate the comprehensive score of evaluation indicators; the orthogonal experiment was designed to optimize the processing technology of simmering R. palmatum with fire temperature, simmering time, paper layer number and paper wrapping time as factors; validation test was conducted. The changes in the contents of five anthraquinones (aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, physcion), five anthraquinone glycosides (barbaloin, rheinoside, rhubarb glycoside, emodin glycoside, and emodin methyl ether glycoside), two sennosides (sennoside A, sennoside B), gallic acid and 5-HMF were compared between simmered R. palmatum prepared by optimized technology and R. palmatum. RESULTS The optimal processing conditions of R. palmatum was as follows: each 80 g R. palmatum was wrapped with a layer of wet paper for 0.5 h, simmered on high heat for 20 min and then simmered at 140 ℃, the total simmering time was 2.5 h. The average comprehensive score of 3 validation tests was 94.10 (RSD<1.0%). After simmering, the contents of five anthraquinones and two sennosides were decreased significantly, while those of 5 free anthraquinones and gallic acid were increased to different extents; a new component 5-HMF was formed. CONCLUSIONS This study successfully optimizes the simmering technology of R. palmatum. There is a significant difference in the chemical components before and after processing, which can explain that simmering technology slows down the relase of R. palmatum and beneficiate it.
2.Modulation of colonic DNA methyltransferase by mild moxibustion and electroacupuncture in ulcerative colitis TET2 knockout mice
Gege FENG ; Yue ZHANG ; Huangan WU ; Lu ZHU ; Hongxiao XU ; Zhe MA ; Yan HUANG
Digital Chinese Medicine 2025;8(1):100-110
Objective:
To investigate the mechanism of in alleviating colonic mucosal inflammation in ten-eleven translocation (TET) protein 2 gene knockout (TET2-/-) mice with ulcerative colitis (UC) by regulating DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) and DNA hydroxymethylase.
Methods:
Male specific pathogen-free (SPF) grade C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice (n = 8) and TET2-/- mice (n = 20) were used to establish UC models by freely drinking 3% dextran sulfate sodium solution for 7 d. After UC model validation through histopathological examination in two mice from each type, the remaining mice were divided into four groups (n = 6 in each group): WT model (WT + UC), TET2-/- model (TET2-/- + UC), TET2-/- mild moxibustion (TET2-/- + MM), and TET2-/- electroacupuncture (TET2-/- + EA) groups. TET2-/- + MM group received mild moxibustion on Tianshu (ST25) and Qihai (CV6) for 10 min daily for 7 d. The TET2-/- + EA group also applied electroacupuncture (1 mA, 2/100 Hz) at the same acupoints for 10 min daily for 7 d. The disease activity index (DAI) scores of each group of mice were accessed daily. The colon lengths of mice in groups were measured following intervention. The pathological changes in the colon tissues were observed with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6, C-C motif chemokine 17 (CCL17), and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) in serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of DNMT proteins (DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B) in the colon tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. The expression of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC), 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC), histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), and DNA hydroxymethylase family proteins (TET 1 and TET3) was detected using immunofluorescence, which also determined the co-localization of TET1 and IL-6 protein.
Results:
Compared with WT + UC group, TET2-/- + UC group exhibited significantly higher DAI scores and shorter colon lengths (P < 0.01). Both mild moxibustion and electroacupuncture significantly decreased DAI scores and ameliorated colon shortening in TET2-/- mice (P < 0.001). Histopathological scores of TET2-/- + UC mice were significantly higher than those of WT + UC group (P < 0.001) and were significantly reduced after both mild moxibustion and electroacupuncture interventions (P < 0.001). Serum levels of IL-6, CCL17, and CXCL10 were significantly elevated in TET2-/- + UC group compared with WT + UC group (P < 0.001). Mild moxibustion significantly reduced IL-6, CCL17, and CXCL10 levels (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.01, respectively), while electroacupuncture also significantly reduced IL-6, CCL17, and CXCL10 levels (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, and P < 0.01, respectively). TET2-/- + UC mice showed increased expression levels of DNMT1, DNMT3A , DNMT3B, and 5-mC (P < 0.05, P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively), with decreased expression levels of TET1, TET3, 5-hmC, and HDAC2 (P < 0.001). Mild moxibustion significantly reduced DNMT1, DNMT3B, and 5-mC levels (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, and P < 0.001, respectively), while increasing expression levels of TET1, TET3, 5-hmC, and HDAC2 (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.05, and P < 0.001, respectively). Electroacupuncture significantly decreased 5-mC and DNMT3B levels (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively) and increased 5-hmC and HDAC2 levels (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively), but did not significantly affect TET1 and TET3 expression (P > 0.05). Compared with TET2-/- + MM group, TET2-/- + EA group showed significantly higher 5-mC expression (P < 0.001). TET2-/- + UC group exhibited markedly increased IL-6 expression and higher co-localization of TET1 and IL-6 in mucosal epithelium, whereas minimal IL-6 expression was observed in the other groups.
Conclusion
Mild moxibustion and electroacupuncture significantly ameliorate colonic inflammation exacerbated by TET2 deficiency in UC mice via epigenetic modulation. Distinct mechanisms exist between the two interventions: mild moxibustion regulates both DNMT and hydroxymethylase, whereas electroacupuncture primarily affects DNMT.
3.Construction of an infectious disease risk assessment system for childcare institutions in Shanghai
Lyulan HUANG ; Ruobing HAN ; Liang TIAN ; Junhua FAN ; Yan WANG ; Ning JIANG ; Renyi ZHU ; Jian CHEN
Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine 2025;37(8):692-696
ObjectiveTo explore the construction of a risk assessment indicator system for common infectious diseases in Shanghai’s childcare institutions, and to provide a reference standard for the prevention and control of infectious diseases, staff training and system construction in childcare institutions. MethodsBy combining the Delphi method with the literature review and expert consultation, the hierarchical dimensions and items at all levels of the risk assessment indicator system for common infectious diseases in Shanghai’s childcare institutions were constructed, and the weighting coefficients were determined by analytic hierarchy process. ResultsA total of 14 experts from the field of childcare institutions, infectious disease control, child healthcare and health supervision participated in the Delphi consultation. The system consisted of four core dimensions: organizational management, team building, hardware equipment, and infectious disease surveillance and disposal, with the weighting coefficients of 0.285 9, 0.261 6, 0.204 3 and 0.248 2, respectively. The evaluation indicator system consisted of 4 primary indicators, 15 secondary indicators and 45 tertiary items. The positivity coefficients of the two rounds of Delphi consultation were 0.93 and 1.00, the authority coefficients were both 0.81, and the Kendall’s coefficient of concordance were 0.44 and 0.49, respectively (P<0.01). ConclusionThe high expert engagement and coordination indicate that organizational management and team building remain the critical priorities for infectious disease prevention and control in Shanghai’s childcare institutions. It is recommended to strengthen financial investment, improve institutional mechanisms, and enhance personnel reserves and capacity building for healthcare teachers, thereby systematically upgrading the infectious disease control capabilities of childcare institutions.
4.The Biological Activity of Human Milk Oligosaccharides
Hai-Zhu WANG ; Chun-Cui HUANG ; Yan LI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(10):2462-2473
Human milk is universally recognized as the optimal and most natural source of nutrition for newborns, offering benefits that extend far beyond basic energy and macronutrient provision. Among its complex constituents, human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) represent the third most abundant solid component, surpassed only by lactose and lipids. HMOs are distinguished by their exceptionally high structural diversity—over 200 distinct structures have been identified to date. This structural complexity underlies the extensive biological functions HMOs perform within the infant’s body. HMOs play a pivotal role in promoting healthy growth, development, and overall well-being in infants and young children, functioning as indispensable bioactive molecules. Their key physiological activities include: immunomodulation and allergy prevention by promoting immune tolerance and reducing the risk of allergic diseases; potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that protect vulnerable infant tissues; support for brain development and cognitive enhancement through multiple mechanisms; anti-pathogenic properties, acting as soluble receptor analogs or “decoy” molecules to competitively block viral, bacterial, and other pathogen adhesion, thereby preventing colonization and infection in the gastrointestinal tract; and functioning as blood group substances. At the translational and application level, HMO research is actively driving cross-disciplinary innovation. Building on a deep understanding of their immunological and neurodevelopmental benefits, certain structurally defined HMOs have been successfully incorporated into infant formula. These HMO-supplemented formulas have received regulatory approval and are now commercially available worldwide, providing a nutritional alternative that more closely resembles human milk for infants who are not exclusively breastfed. This represents a significant step toward narrowing the compositional gap between formula and breast milk. Simultaneously, research into the symbiotic relationship between HMOs and the gut microbiota—particularly their role as selective prebiotic substrates promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria—has catalyzed the development of novel functional foods, dietary supplements, and microbiome-targeted therapies. These include advanced synbiotic formulations that combine specific probiotic strains with HMOs to synergistically optimize gut health and function. Furthermore, the intrinsic qualities of HMOs—including their natural origin, safety profile, biocompatibility, and proven antioxidant properties—have attracted growing interest in the emerging field of high-performance cosmetics. They are increasingly being explored as innovative functional ingredients in skincare products aimed at reducing oxidative stress and supporting skin health. This review aims to systematically synthesize recent advancements in HMO research, offering a comprehensive analysis centered on their complex composition and structural diversity; the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying their diverse biological functions; their translational potential across sectors such as nutrition, medicine, and consumer care (including cosmetics); and the major challenges that persist in the field. It critically examines both foundational discoveries and recent breakthroughs. By integrating these interconnected themes, the review provides a holistic and up-to-date perspective on the scientific landscape of HMOs, highlighting their essential role in early-life nutrition and their expanding relevance across health and wellness applications. It also outlines promising directions for future research, with the goal of advancing evidence-based innovation in infant health and beyond.
5.Anti-COVID-19 mechanism of Anoectochilus roxburghii liquid based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Jin ZHU ; Yan-bin WU ; De-fu HUANG ; Bing-ke BAI ; Xu-hui HE ; Dan JIA ; Cheng-jian ZHENG
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2024;59(3):633-642
italic>Anoectochilus roxburghii liquid (spray, a hospital preparation of Wu Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University) has shown a good clinical treatment effect during the COVID-19 pandemic, but its material basis and mechanism of action are still unclear. In this study, network pharmacology and molecular docking methods were used to predict the molecular mechanism of
6.Promoting Reform of Talent Evaluation Based on China Clinical Cases Library of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Kaige ZHANG ; Yong ZHU ; Jisheng WANG ; Liangzhen YOU ; Weijun HUANG ; Jie YANG ; Candong LI ; Genping LEI ; Chuan ZHENG ; Shuzhen GUO ; Longtao LIU ; Zhining TIAN ; Xinping QIU ; Wenli SU ; Zuo LI ; Wei YAN ; Hongcai SHANG ; Xiaoxiao ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2024;30(17):220-226
Talents are the main force for the development of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), and the construction of TCM talents and the reformation of talent evaluation system are essential to promote the inheritance and innovation of TCM. At present, we are still exploring and developing in the fields of the formulation, implementation and evaluation indicators of TCM talent evaluation system. However, there are shortcomings and difficulties. For instance, insufficient stratification in the evaluation, excessive emphasis on the quantity of achievements, neglecting the quality of the achievements and the actual contribution, imperfect assessment indicators, and the weak characteristics of TCM. Therefore, national ministries and commissions have jointly issued a document requesting to break the four only and set a new standard, in order to promote the construction of a scientific and technological talent evaluation system oriented by innovation value, ability and contribution. For the evaluation of TCM clinical talents, China Association for Science and Technology commissioned China Association of Chinese Medicine to build the China Clinical Cases Library of TCM(CCCL-TCM), which aims at collecting the most authoritative and representative TCM clinical cases and exploring the advantages of applying clinical cases as masterpiece of achievement in TCM clinical talents evaluation. CCCL-TCM can promote the construction of a talent evaluation system that is more in line with the development characteristics of TCM industry, and to carry out relevant pilot in TCM colleges and institutions across the country in order to promote the reformation of TCM talent evaluation system.
7.Correlation with nutritional status and risk factors of depressed mood in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis
Di ZHU ; Yan LIU ; Shuyue HE ; Tianyu HE ; Xinrui SHI ; Zixu LI ; Tingjuan HUANG ; Junjie REN
Chinese Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2024;32(1):1-7
Objective:To evaluate the nutritional status of patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and explore the correlation with malnutrition and the risk factors of depressed mood.Methods:190 cirrhotic patients admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology of the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from June to September 2023 were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible patients were divided into subgroups based on the presence or absence of malnutrition as determined by subjective global assessment (SGA). The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D) scale was used to assess patients' propensity for depressed mood. Relevant clinical data were also collected and analyzed.Results:A total of 185 patients were included, of which 126 were in the non-malnutrition group and 59 malnutrition group. There were significant between-group differences in terms of CES-D results, age, body mass index, platelets, D-dimer, serum sodium, third lumbar skeletal muscle index, grip strength, triceps skinfold thickness, and upper arm muscle circumference (all P<0.05). Correlation analysis showed that grip strength, triceps skinfold thickness, upper arm muscle circumference, serum sodium, and depressed mood tendency status were correlated with the development of cirrhotic malnutrition ( P<0.05). The diagnostic model for malnutrition in cirrhosis using these five indicators showed the area under the curve of 81.9%. Conclusions:Depression is closely related to the development of malnutrition in patients with liver cirrhosis. Independent risk factors for malnutrition in cirrhosis include serum sodium≤135 mmol/L, grip strength, triceps skinfold thickness, lower-than-normal upper arm circumference , and the tendency of depression , which demonstrate the combined contribution to the diagnosis of malnutrition in cirrhosis.
8.Efficacy of CARTO Three-dimensional Mapping and Zero X-ray Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Premature Contraction Originating From Aortic Sinus
Jingyu TIAN ; Zhengyu ZHU ; Ruizheng WANG ; Yunli TIAN ; Jing HUANG ; Yan WANG
Chinese Circulation Journal 2024;39(3):267-272
Objectives:To finely divide the aortic sinus into sections and accurately localize the coronary ostium through CARTO three-dimensional mapping,and to assess the clinical effects of treating aortic sinus cusps premature ventricular contraction(ASC-PVC)and the ablation risk in the corresponding area with zero X-ray radiofrequency ablation. Methods:A total of 66 patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation for ASC-PVC from January 2020 to January 2023 were included in this analysis,patients were divided into experimental group(n=34)and conventional group(n=32).In the conventional group,the CARTO 3 system was used to create an aortic sinus model through the conventional method.The earliest stimulating target was identified by using electrical stimulation mapping(ESM).Radiofrequency ablation treatment was performed after the distance between the target and the coronary ostium was precisely measured by coronary angiography through the hollow tube of the ablation catheter or coronary angiography tube.In the experimental group,the CARTO 3 system was used to build a model of the aortic sinus and the coronary ostium and aortic sinus were divided into sections.The earliest stimulating target was identified by ESM.After localizing coronary ostium through the impedance changing pattern on the ablation catheter tips,catheter ablation was performed with zero X-ray.The data regarding the impedance of the ablation catheter in the aortic sinus were collected.The total operative time,the operative time in the aortic sinus,contrast dosage,X-ray exposure time,immediate and short-term success rates of the operation and complication rates were compared between the two groups.Besides,the distribution of successfully ablated targets and their relationship with the risk of ablation were analyzed in both groups. Results:There was no significant statistical difference in the immediate and short-term success rates between the two groups(93.8%vs.94.1%;90.6%vs.88.2%,both P>0.05).The experimental group did not receive contrast agents during the operation,and the total operation time and intra-aortic sinus operation time in the experimental group were significantly shorter than those in the conventional group([58.76±4.94]min vs.[66.91±5.94]min,P<0.001;[43.12±4.49]min vs.[50.31±5.18]min,P<0.001).During the process of moving the ablation catheter from the intra-aortic sinus to the coronary artery opening and into the coronary artery,the impedance suddenly increased,which was significantly different from the impedance in other parts of the intra-aortic sinus(all P<0.001). Conclusions:Radiofrequency ablation of ASC-PVC with zero X-ray can simplify the procedures and shorten the operative time.The steep increase in impedance at the tip of the ablation catheter can be used as a basis for localizing the coronary ostium.Dividing the aortic sinus into sections allows a detailed assessment of the risk for ablation treatment at the targets.
9.Therapeutic Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Myocardial Fibrosis Via Modulation of Signaling Pathways: A Review
Jingshun YAN ; Linping ZHU ; Hongxia ZHANG ; Danni HUANG ; Xinliang LYU ; Wenyue LI ; Xiaofeng LI ; Yuhong LI
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2024;30(13):230-239
Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a prevalent pathological process in a spectrum of cardiac conditions, including myocardial infarction, hypertensive heart disease, and dilated cardiomyopathy. It is marked by an overabundance of extracellular matrix deposition, diminished myocardial compliance, and impaired cardiac function, which can lead to arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The current therapeutic approach primarily aims to suppress the progression of fibrosis, yet the therapeutic outcomes are poor. The pathogenesis of MF involves multiple signaling pathways, including the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Smads signaling pathway, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) boasts a rich history in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, offering distinctive benefits such as minimal side effects and high safety, and it has demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in the treatment of MF. In recent years, research has turned its attention to the application of TCM in modulating the signaling pathways associated with MF. It has been demonstrated that TCM can modulate the MF-related signaling pathways to exert anti-inflammatory effects, regulate cellular autophagy, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, reduce myocardial oxidative stress and damage, and inhibit the activation of fibroblasts and collagen synthesis, thereby exhibiting the potential to mitigate or even reverse the progression of MF. Experimental research and clinical observations indicate that TCM formulas such as Yixin Futing decoction, Luhong prescription, Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsules, and Kangjian Yixin prescription can effectively ameliorate MF and enhance cardiac function through the multi-component regulation of multiple cellular pathways. Specific TCM constituents, including isoliquiritigenin and astragaloside, have been shown to inhibit the expression of TGF-β1, thereby disrupting the Smad signaling pathway. Compounds like glycyrrhizic acid and allicin can suppress the NF-κB signaling pathway and curtail collagen synthesis in myocardial cells, and forsythoside can activate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, contributing to its anti-fibrotic effects.
10.A novel chalcone derivative C13 inhibits the growth of human gastric cancer cells through suppressing ErbB4/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Peng TAN ; Yun-feng ZHANG ; Long-yan WANG ; Hui-ming HUANG ; Fei WANG ; Xue-jiao WEI ; Zhu-guo WANG ; Jun LI ; Zhong-dong HU
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica 2024;59(4):957-964
3ʹ-Hydroxy-4ʹ-methoxy-2-hydroxy-5-bromochalcone (hereinafter referred to as C13) is a novel chalcone derivative obtained in the process of structural modification of DHMMF, the antitumor active compound of

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