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- Abstract：ObjectiveTo explore the mechanism of the therapy of promoting blood circulation and nourishing yin(PBCNY) in improving spermatogenesis in rats with varicocele based on Bcl-2/Bax pathway.MethodsThirty 8-week-old male SD rats were randomly divided into six groups (five rats per group): sham, model, levocarnitine (1.0 g/kg), and PBCNY low-dose (5.2 g/kg), PBCNY medium-dose (10.4 g/kg), and PBCNY high-dose (20.8 g/kg) groups. Apart from the sham group, all the groups were built a varicocele model by the classical Turner method. After 4 weeks, the sham group and model group were gavaged with normal saline, and the remaining groups were given with levocarnitine or different doses of PBCNY decoction once a day for 4 weeks. At the end of gavage, the sperm quality of rats in each group was detected by a computer-assisted sperm analyzer, and HE staining was used to observe the testicular tissue morphology of rats in each group and performed with Johnsen score. TUNEL method was used to detect apoptosis, RT-qPCR was used to detect Bcl-2 and Bax mRNA expression, and immunohistochemical method was used to detect cytochrome C protein expression.ResultsCompared to the sham group, sperm total count, motility rate and percentage of sperm with grade (a+ b) motility were lower in the model group of rats (P<0.05). HE staining showed disturbed arrangement of seminiferous tubules in the testicular tissue with significant changes and decreased Johnsen score (P<0.05). The result of TUNEL assay showed that the apoptosis rate was increased in the model group (P<0.05). Bax mRNA expression was increased in testicular tissue (P<0.05). The result of immunohistochemistry showed that the positive expression of cytochrome C was increased in the model group (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the rat sperm total count in the PBCNY medium-dose group, motility rate in the PBCNY low- and medium-dose groups, and percentage of sperm with grade (a+ b) motility in the PBCNY low-dose group increased(P<0.05); the pathological structure of rat testis had different degrees of improvement, and Johnsen score increased in the PBCNY medium-dose group (P<0.05); the apoptosis rate of testicular cells decreased in the levocarnitine group and all doses of PBCNY groups (P<0.05); the expression of Bcl-2 mRNA increased in the PBCNY low-dose and high-dose groups (P<0.05), and the expression of Bax mRNA decreased in the levocarnitine group and the PBCNY medium-dose group (P<0.05); the positive expression of cytochrome C decreased in the PBCNY medium-dose group (P<0.05).ConclusionThe therapy of PBCNY can improve sperm quality, repair damaged testicular tissue structure and improve spermatogenic function in rats with varicocele, and its mechanism of action may be related to the activation of Bcl-2/Bax pathway and inhibition of cell apoptosis.Keywords：therapy of promoting blood circulation and nourishing yin;varicocele;spermatogenesis;apoptosis;B-cell lymphoma-2/B-cell lymphoma-2 associated X protein pathway;rats239|490|0<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Thoughts and diagnostic strategies of traditional Chinese medicine in diagnosing and treating male infertility Enhanced Publication
Abstract：The pathogenesis of male infertility is intricate and complex, and now, Western medicine is primarily based on empirical drug treatment. Male infertility is one of the advantageous diseases of traditional Chinese medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine has obvious effect in improving male reproductive function, which is one of the important means of clinical treatment of this disease. Based on the classical ancient books and modern research, and based on the traditional tonifying kidney method, we have innovatively put forward the concept of treating male infertility with the principle of " deficiency of kidney essence as the root, tonifying kidney and benefiting essence as the method, and regulating yin and yang mildly as the rule", which has achieved good clinical efficacy. At the same time, combined with the long-term clinical practice of our team, we have proposed five major diagnosis and treatment strategies for male infertility, i. e., combining disease identification with syndrome identification, combining macroscopic with microscopic approaches, combining holistic with localized treatments, combining traditional Chinese medicine with surgery, and combining treatment of the disease and treatment of the person. In addition, we have summarized some of the current problems in the treatment of male infertility with traditional Chinese medicine and put forward corresponding suggestions, with a view to promoting the development and application of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of male infertility.Keywords：male infertility;differentiation and treatment approach;diagnosis and treatment strategies375|979|2<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02- Abstract：Erectile dysfunction has a high incidence rate and is a difficult-to-treat condition in male urology. The synergistic effect of nerves, endothelium, and smooth muscles plays a crucial role in penile erection. However, the role of the many fibroblasts in the corpus cavernosum of the penis during erection is often overlooked. Fibroblasts are at the center of the cellular and molecular network in the corpus cavernosum of the penis, regulating the dynamic balance of the cavernosal microenvironment and mediating penile erection, thus providing a novel target for treating erectile dysfunction. Blood stasis primarily causes erectile dysfunction, thereby serving as a crucial pathological factor leading to the imbalance of the cavernosal microenvironment. Blood stasis also corresponds to the microscopic pathological changes in the corpus cavernosum of patients with erectile dysfunction. Therefore, this study explored the correlation between fibroblast-mediated penile erection and traditional Chinese medicine theories, integrating it with clinical practice. This study proposes that activating blood and resolving stasis can regulate the cavernosal microenvironment and improve fibroblast-mediated erectile dysfunction. This study also provides novel insights for treating erectile dysfunction with traditional Chinese medicine.Keywords：erectile dysfunction;fibroblasts;cavernosal microenvironment;activating blood and resolving stasis227|435|2<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：The unique advantages of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in treating late onset hypogonadism in male have gradually emerged with the continuous deepening of the understanding and research on late onset hypogonadism in male. Time sequence is a general summary of the natural growth and operational laws. Tian gui and testosterone have their normal time sequences, and they may be associated with each other. A man′s tian gui follows the regular time sequence from " inception" to " exhaustion" throughout " eight" under normal physiological conditions. " Tian gui out of time sequence" includes the loss of tian gui exuberance (dysfunction of viscera dominated by the liver) and exhaustion in the time sequence (pathological deficiency of viscera dominated by the kidney), resulting in " tian gui exhaustion" in advance of " eight eight". Tian gui and testosterone are key concepts in Chinese and Western medicine for understanding late onset hypogonadism in male. The theory of " tian gui out of time sequence" may be closely related to the core pathogenesis of this condition, particularly in cases of liver depression and kidney deficiency. This study suggests that restoring the normal time sequence of tian gui while treating the liver and kidney simultaneously through time-sharing treatment should be effective. The use of Xiongcan Yishen Formula has shown promising therapeutic result, offering new insights and references for treating late onset hypogonadism in male using TCM.Keywords：tian gui;time sequence;late onset hypogonadism in male;testosterone244|765|1<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Special Theme: TCM Prevention and Treatment of Male Diseases
- Abstract：Based on the " You Gu Wu Yun" theory in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), this paper believes that " Gu" in " You Gu Wu Yun" is extended to " state" from the perspective of " TCM state". In order to avoid the adverse reactions of TCM, the macro, meso, and micro three views should be used together, and macro, meso, and micro parameters should be integrated. We should also carefully identify the physiological characteristics, pathological characteristics, constitution, syndrome, and disease of human body by combining qualitative and quantitative method, highlighting the relationship between the prescription and the " state". The correspondence between prescription and the " state" will reduce the risk of adverse reactions of TCM. In this paper, we hope to focus on the guiding role of the " You Gu Wu Yun" theory in TCM research, to give full play to the characteristics and advantages of TCM, and to dialectically treat the role of TCM.Keywords：You Gu Wu Yun;traditional Chinese medicine safety;traditional Chinese medicine state;correspondence between prescription and syndrome294|614|0<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Understanding the excellent use of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction from xiang thinking Enhanced Publication
Abstract：Chaihu Guizhi Decoction is an excellent prescription of ZHANG Zhongjing; however, nowadays the application of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction is primarily derived from the text. The xiang thinking is the source of traditional Chinese medicine thinking. Understanding Chaihu Guizhi Decoction from the xiang thinking, it is easy to perceive the true meaning of ZHANG Zhongjing, and grasp the location of the disease and the patient′s overall qi, so as to make better use of this formula. This article discusses the understanding of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction from five perspectives: firstly, it gives an overview of the xiang thinking, pointing out the source and essential value of the xiang thinking; secondly, it analyses the disease position and the patient′s qi of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction under the perspective of the xiang thinking as a whole; thirdly, it discusses the disease position and the patient′s qi of the original text of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction from the xiang thinking; fourthly, it discusses how to understand the principle of formula formation and the main and minor parts of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction by xiang thinking; finally, it analyses the primary medicines in Chaihu Guizhi Decoction by using xiang thinking based on the records of Shennong Bencao Jing. Based on these five points, we hope to reveal the traditional Chinese medicine thinking behind Chaihu Guizhi Decoction, and provide new ideas for the clinical application of Chaihu Guizhi Decoction.Keywords：Xiang Thinking;traditional Chinese medicine thinking;Chaihu Guizhi Decoction315|965|1<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Theoretical Studies
Research on the southern dissemination of Yishui′s learning during the Yuan and Ming dynasties Enhanced Publication
Abstract：During the Jin dynasty, the two major academic schools of Hejian and Yishui emerged in northern China. At this time, the Song dynasty migrated southward, accompanied by the southward movement of the Han ethnic culture and economic center. The dissemination of medicine also showed a trend of spreading from the north to the south. The late Yuan dynasty was an important period for the academic dissemination of the Yishui school to the south. On the one hand, ZHU Danxi, GE Yinglei, HUA Shou, and other clinicians studied the academic works of LI Dongyuan, comprehended his academic ideas, and further disseminated them through their disciples and Confucian scholars. On the other hand, academic works such as Jisheng Bacui and Weisheng Baojian carrying the study of Yishui were published in the south, playing an essential role in disseminating Yishui′s study in the south. The dissemination of Yishui′s learning to the south adopted a combination of book learning and mentorship, effectively breaking down the academic barriers between the Hejian and Yishui schools. The network formed by the interaction between medical scholars and Confucian scholars was an essential medium for academic dissemination. The study of Yishui was transmitted to the south and integrated with the original spleen and stomach theory in the south, promoting the further development of traditional Chinese medicine spleen and stomach theory.Keywords：Yishui school;spleen and stomach theory;southern dissemination;Li Dongyuan;Zhu Danxi278|888|0<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Literature Studies
- Abstract：ObjectiveTo explore the effects of modulating the Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway using Huashi Runzao Prescription (HRP) on the apoptosis and salivary secretion function of submandibular gland cells in a naive non-obese diabetic (NOD/Ltj) mouse model of Sjögren′s syndrome (SS).MethodsEight-week-old female BALB/c mice were selected as the blank group. Eight-week-old female NOD/Ltj were randomly divided into the model, HRP-L, HRP-M, HRP-H, and hydroxychloroquine sulphate (HCQ) groups. After eight weeks of drug administration, the water consumption and salivary flow rate of each group were recorded. The histopathological damage of the submandibular gland in each group was determined using hematoxylin and eosin staining, the apoptosis rate of the submandibular gland was determined using TUNEL staining, and AQP5, Bax, Bcl-2, beclin-1, YAP, p-YAP, and TAZ expressions in submandibular gland tissues were determined using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.ResultsCompared with the blank group, the Hippo-YAP/TAZ pathway was inhibited in the submandibular gland tissues of the model group, lymphocyte infiltration increased, water consumption increased, salivary flow rate decreased, AQP5 expression decreased, and submandibular gland cells apoptosis rate increased (P<0.05). Compared with all other administered groups, in the HRP-M group, the Hippo-YAZ/TAZ pathway was significantly activated, lymphocyte infiltration in submandibular gland tissues was reduced, water consumption was reduced, the salivary flow rate and AQP5 expression were increased, and the apoptosis rate of submandibular gland cells was reduced (P<0.05).ConclusionHRP reduced the pathological damage and apoptosis of submandibular gland cells in SS model mice. It improved the overall secretory function of submandibular gland tissues, which may be related to Hippo pathway activation and downregulating YAP/TAZ expression.Keywords：Huashi Runzao Prescription;Sjögren′s syndrome;apoptosis;submandibular gland;Hippo signaling pathway;aquaporin 5;mice192|320|5<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：ObjectiveThis study aimed to observe the effect of Jiang Tang San Hao Formula (JTSHF) on systemic and intestinal inflammation, as well as on the NLRP3 inflammasome in type 2 diabetic mice (T2DM), and to elucidate its anti-diabetic molecular mechanisms.MethodsFour-week-old male C57BL/6 N mice were used to establish the T2DM model using a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin injection. The diabetic mice were randomly divided into the model, metformin, and JTSHF groups. A control group was also set to provide baseline comparisons. Each group of mice was orally administered with the corresponding medication daily. The metformin group was orally administered with 0.20 g/kg metformin, the JTSHF group was orally administered with 4.26 g/kg JTSHF, and the control group and model group were orally administered with an equal amount of sterile water continuously for 8 weeks.After an 8-week drug intervention via gavage, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) serum and colon levels were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The pathological morphology of the colon was observed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), caspase-1, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, and G-protein coupled receptor 43 (GPR43) protein expression in the colon were assessed using immunohistochemistry. The mRNA expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, ZO-1, Occludin, and GPR43 in the colon were detected using Real-time PCR.ResultsThe ELISA data revealed significant differences in inflammatory markers among the groups. Compared with the model group, the JTSHF group exhibited notably reduced LPS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels (P<0.05). Moreover, compared with the model group, JTSHF treatment upregulated ZO-1, occludin, and GPR43 protein and mRNA expression in the colon and downregulated NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 protein and mRNA expression (P<0.05).ConclusionThe inflammatory reaction of T2DM mice is apparent. JTSHF effectively alleviates the systemic and intestinal inflammatory response of T2DM mice by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier, highlighting the potential molecular mechanisms of the anti-diabetes effects of JTSHF.Keywords：type 2 diabetes;Jiang Tang San Hao Formula;inflammatory reaction;NLPR3 inflammasome;intestinal mucosal barrier;mice270|338|2<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：ObjectiveTo investigate the effect and mechanism of Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) in inhibiting c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK)/c-Jun signaling pathway activation to alleviate calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) in mice.MethodsTwenty-one male ApoE-/- mice aged 6 to 8 weeks were randomly divided into the model, PNS high-dose (60 mg/kg), and PNS low-dose (30 mg/kg) groups using the random number table method, with seven mice per group. Nine male C57BL/6 mice aged 6 to 8 weeks were used as the control group. Mice in the control group were fed a normal diet, whereas ApoE-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, three C57BL/6 and three ApoE-/- mice (one ApoE-/- mice from each group) were randomly selected to evaluate the CAVD modeling effect. After confirming successful modeling, the PNS high- and low-dose groups received daily intragastric PNS administration. The control and model groups were administered an equal volume of stroke-physiological saline solution by gavage for 4 consecutive weeks. The valve annulus diameter and peak velocity of the mice in each group were then detected using ultrasound. The degree of aortic valve calcification was evaluated using von Kossa and Alizarin Red S staining. The serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were detected by biochemical method. Inflammatory factor interleukin-4 (IL-4), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expressions of calcification markers, runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) were detected using immunohistochemistry. Aortic valve cell apoptosis was evaluated using TUNEL staining, and JNK/c-Jun signaling pathway-related mRNA and mean fluorescence intensity were detected using quantitative real-time PCR and immunofluorescence, respectively.ResultsCompared with the control group, the mice in the model group showed an increase in serum TC, TG, LDL-C, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels, a decrease in IL-4 and IL-10 levels, a decrease in annulus diameter, an increase in peak flow velocity, and an increase in von Kossa and Alizarin Red S staining-positive areas. Additionally, the model group showed an increase in aortic valve cell apoptosis rate, an increase in BMP2 and RUNX2-positive rates, and an increase in JNK and c-Jun mRNA expression levels and p-JNK/JNK and p-c-Jun/c-Jun (P<0.05). Compared to the model group, the PNS low-dose group showed a decrease in serum TC, LDL-C, and TNF-α levels, an increase in annulus diameter, a decrease in peak flow velocity, and a decrease in positive area in Alizarin Red S staining. Furthermore, the PNS low-dose group showed a decrease in BMP2 and RUNX2-positive rates, JNK and c-Jun mRNA expression levels, and p-JNK/JNK and p-c-Jun/c-Jun (P<0.05). The PNS high-dose group showed an increase in HDL-C, IL-4 and IL-10 levels, a decrease in serum TC, LDL-C, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels, an increase in annulus diameter, a decrease in peak flow velocity, and a decrease in von Kossa and Alizarin Red S staining-positive areas and cell apoptosis rate. The PNS high-dose group also showed a decrease in BMP2 and RUNX2 positive staining rates, JNK and c-Jun mRNA expression levels, and p-JNK/JNK and p-c-Jun/c-Jun (P<0.05).ConclusionPNS may reduce valvular cell apoptosis, alleviate inflammation, and protect against aortic valve calcification in mice by inhibiting the activation of JNK/c-Jun signaling pathway.Keywords：Panax notoginseng saponins;apoptosis;c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase/c-Jun signaling pathway;aortic valve;calcific aortic valve disease;mice142|208|2<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：ObjectiveThis study explored the effects of Epimedium koreanum Nakai (EK) on liver function in normal, kidney yang deficiency (KYANGDS), and kidney yin deficiency (KYINDS) rats based on the theory of " You Gu Wu Yun." The study also investigated the connection between EK-induced liver injury and symptoms.MethodsSeventy-two male SD rats were divided into normal, KYANGDS, and KYINDS groups using the random number table method. The KYANGDS model was established through intramuscular injection of 20 mg/kg of hydrocortisone, whereas the KYINDS model was established through daily gavage of 160 mg/kg of thyroid tablet suspension for 14 consecutive days. After successful modeling, the rats were divided into the normal, EK low-dose, EK high-dose, KYANGDS, KYANGDS + EK low-dose, KYANGDS + EK high-dose, KYINDS, KYINDS + EK low-dose, and KYINDS + EK high-dose groups using the random number table method. Animals in the drug groups were administered low (0.26 g/kg) and high (0.77 g/kg) EK extract doses through continuous gavage. The other groups received drinking water once a day for 28 consecutive days. Changes in body mass were monitored during the administration period, and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase(ALT), aspartate transaminase(AST), direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin (IBil), and total bilirubin (TBil) were measured at the end of administration using biochemical analyzers. The liver weight, visceral body ratio, and visceral brain ratio were measured. Hematoxylin and eosin staining were performed to observe the pathological changes in the liver.ResultsCompared with the normal group, the EK high-dose group showed a decrease in body weight on the 21st day during the drug administration period and an increase in IBil (P<0.05); the KYANGDS group had lower body weight at each measurement time point from the third to the 28th day, higher ALP, and lower liver weight (P<0.05). Compared with the KYANGDS group, the KYANGDS + EK high-dose group had decreased ALP levels (P<0.05). The pathological damage of liver tissue in each KYANGDS administration group improved, the presence of fat vacuoles were reduced, and pathological scores show a decreasing trend. Compared with the KYINDS group, KYINDS+ EK high-dose group exhibited a higher IBil level and a lower visceral brain ratio(P<0.05).ConclusionEK has a small effect on the liver function of rats with KYANGDS within the dose range; however, it has a specific hepatogenic impact on normal and KYINDS rats, and EK-induced liver injury and the symptoms may be associated with each other.Keywords：Epimedium koreanum Nakai;liver injury;kidney yang deficiency pattern;kidney yin deficiency pattern;You Gu Wu Yun;rats152|332|1<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：ObjectiveTo explore the protective mechanism of Zuogui Jiangtang Jieyu Formula (ZGF) on synaptic damage of hippocampal neurons based on leukocyte mono-immunoglobulin-like receptor 3 (CD300f)/glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) signal-mediated microglial glucose metabolism in rats with diabetes-related depression.MethodsEighty male SD rats were randomly selected using random number table method, with 10 rats serving as the normal group. The remaining 70 rats were fed a high-fat diet for 4 weeks and then injected once with 38 mg/kg of streptozotocin via the tail vein to replicate the diabetes rat model. Sixty rats were screened and successfully modeled, which were randomly divided into the model, CD300f blocker, CD300f agonist, metformin + fluoxetine (metformin 0.18 g/kg + fluoxetine 1.8 mg/kg), and ZGF high- and low-dose (20.52 and 10.26 g/kg, respectively) groups using random number table method. In addition to the normal group, the rats in the other groups underwent chronic unpredictable mild stress combined with isolation feeding for 28 days to replicate the diabetes-related depression rat model. The metformin + fluoxetine and ZGF high- and low-dose groups were subjected to continuous intragastrial administration for 14 days after the second week of modeling. The normal and model groups were administered an equal amount of distilled water by gavage. The CD300f blocker group and agonist group received microinjection into the hippocampus, with injection of myeloid cell trigger receptor inhibitory factor (CLM1, 2 μg/kg) and immunoglobulin Fc surface protein (Fcγ, 5 μg/kg) once a week, respectively. Depression-like behavior in rats was evaluated using open-field and forced swimming tests after the intervention. Biochemical analysis was used to detect the glucose, lactic acid, and adenosine diphosphate (ADP)/adenosine triphosphate (ATP) ratio contents. The insulin, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and dopamine (DA) levels in the hippocampus were detected using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the average fluorescence intensity of CD300f, GLUT1, regulating synaptic membrane wxocytosis 3 (RIMS3), and synapse-associated protein 102 (SAP102) in hippocampal tissue. Western blotting was used to detect the CD300f, GLUT1, RIMS3, and SAP102 protein expression levels in the hippocampus. The synaptic damage of hippocampal neurons was observed using Nissl staining and transmission electron microscope.ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group showed a decrease in the total active distance in the open-field test and an increase in forced swimming immobility time, with an increase in glucose and lactic acid contents and ADP/ATP ratio, whereas a decrease in insulin, 5-HT, and DA levels was observed in the hippocampus. The average fluorescence intensity and relative protein expression levels of CD300f, GLUT1, RIMS3, and SAP102 in hippocampal tissue decreased (P<0.05), and the synaptic ultrastructure of hippocampal neurons was damaged. Compared with the model group, depression-like behavioral changes, glucose metabolism, and monoamine neurotransmitter imbalance were alleviated in the CD300f agonist group and ZGF high- and low-dose group (P<0.05). The average fluorescence intensity and relative protein expression levels of CD300f, GLUT1, RIMS3, and SAP102 in the hippocampus of the CD300f agonist group and the ZGF high-dose group were all increased (P<0.05), and synaptic damage was alleviated. The abnormal levels of glucose, lactate, ADP/ATP, 5-HT, and CD300f protein expression were aggravated in the CD300f blocker group (P<0.05), and synaptic damage was aggravated.ConclusionZGF can alleviate glucose metabolism disorders in hippocampal microglia and synaptic damage in hippocampal neurons in rats with diabetes-related depression. Its mechanism may be related to regulating the CD300f/GLUT1 signaling pathway.Keywords：diabetes mellitus;depression disorder;Zuogui Jiangtang Jieyu Formula;microglia;Glucose Metabolism;leukocyte mono-immunoglobulin-like receptor 3/glucose transporter type 1 signaling pathway;hippocampal neurons;synaptic damage;rats289|353|1<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Experimental Studies
- Abstract：Humans are born under the nourishment of heaven and earth qi. The physiological and pathological functions of the human body are influenced by the alternation of cold and heat in the four seasons. Allergic diseases often occur or worsen during seasonal transitions, corresponding to the theory of the spleen dominating the end of the four seasons in traditional Chinese medicine. Splenic dysfunction disrupts the body′s internal clock during seasonal transitions, making it unable to adapt to external climate changes, causing the onset or exacerbation of specific allergic symptoms. The theory of " the spleen serves as the guard" originated from Huangdi Neijing, which is a succinct summary of the role of the spleen in defending the body against external pathogens. The theory emphasizes that the spleen transports drinks and foods internally to supplement healthy qi, and regulates defensive qi externally to protect the whole body. This theory is closely linked to the seasonal changes in immune function, thereby influencing the seasonal onset of allergic diseases. This paper explores the roles of the spleen in time-based self-regulation and immune defense against seasonal allergic diseases according to the theory of " spleen serves as the grard." The dysfunction of this protective mechanism, which leads to disharmony in nutritive qi and defensive qi, internal production of phlegm-dampness, and zang-fu organs malnutrition, are the key factors causing recurrent and persistent allergic diseases during seasonal transitions. This study provides insights for elucidating the mechanisms behind seasonal allergic disease outbreaks and their prevention.Keywords：the spleen serves as the guard;allergic diseases;seasonal alternation;correspondence between the human body and natural environment164|340|0<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：Primary hypotension is a common and frequently occurring blood vessel disease, characterized by insidious onset, lingering condition, complex etiology, and diverse symptoms. Its pathogenesis is primarily characterized by deficiency, and its onset involves multiple zang-fu organs. The " yang transforming qi and yin shaping up body" theory is derived from the Huangdi Neijing. This theory summarizes the fundamental laws of the movement and changes in yin and yang. From this perspective, the paper hypothesizes that the basic pathogenesis of primary hypotension stems from an insufficiency of yang in transforming qi and a malfunction of yin in shaping up body. The essence of the condition lies in an overall yang deficiency that fails to provide warmth and transformation, coupled with qi deficiency, which cannot control and regulate bodily functions. This leads to poor blood circulation and inadequate protection, causing yin to malfunction in forming the physical components of the body. As a result, normal physiological functions of the zang-fu organs are disrupted, the production of beneficial physiological substances is obstructed, and metabolic waste products accumulate. The primary therapeutic approach should be focused on tonifying qi and ascending yang; tonifying qi will provide the impetus for blood circulation, whereas ascending yang will facilitate yang transformation qi. The zang-fu organs should also be protected and nourished to ameliorate the internal environment of yang deficiency and yin excess, as well as to eliminate pathological product accumulation to dredge the channels of blood circulation. Using the " yang transforming qi and yin shaping up the body" theory to guide the treatment of primary hypotension can help deepen the understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease and broaden the clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies.Keywords：primary hypotension;yang transforming qi and yin shaping up body;tonifying qi and ascending yang;protecting and nourishing the zang-fu organ;reinforcing yang to eliminate pathogenic yin factors221|902|1<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Clinical Studies
- Abstract：The allergic constitution is a common biased constitution state. This paper discusses the understanding of allergic constitution from the basic principles of traditional Chinese medicine constitution, such as life process theory, endowment inheritance theory, physical-spirit composition theory, and environmental constraints theory. From the perspective of life process theory, at different ages, allergic constitution may change with the rise and fall of qi and blood in the body, and there is a general trend of qi and blood in the body from immature to strong and then to weak. From the perspective of endowment inheritance theory, the allergic constitution is closely related to heredity and has the tendency of family aggregation. From the perspective of physical-spirit composition theory, people with allergic constitution have physical characteristics such as nose, airway reaction, intestine, and skin reactions, and psychological characteristics such as introversion and the tendency to produce anxiety, depression, and tension. From the perspective of environmental constraints theory, the formation of allergic constitution is related to the differences of seasons and geographical environments. By discussing the characteristics of allergic constitution, we can deeply understand allergic constitution and provide reference for better grasping allergic constitution and improving the quality of life of allergic people.Keywords：allergic Constitution;traditional Chinese medicine constitution;biased constitution468|913|5<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
TCM Constitutions
- Abstract：ObjectiveTo evaluate the survival of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after chemotherapy using Fuzheng Jiedu Formula and to explore the intrinsic correlation between the lymphocyte subset level and the survival of patients with DLBCL.MethodsA total of 234 patients with DLBCL who had completed chemotherapy and achieved complete or partial response in the Department of Hematology, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2023, were recruited. A cohort study design was adopted, with " whether to receive continuous Fuzheng Jiedu Formula treatment for ≥ 6 months after chemotherapy" as the exposed factor. Patients meeting this exposed factor were divided into the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) cohort, whereas those who did not meet this exposed factor were divided into the observation cohort. The 1- and 2-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate, overall survival (OS) rate, and duration of response (DOR) of the two cohorts were compared. The survival curves of PFS and OS of the two cohorts were drawn, and subgroup survival analysis was performed to determine factors affecting disease progression. The effect of Fuzheng Jiedu Formula on lymphocyte subset count level was observed.ResultsThe study included 126 and 108 patients in the TCM and observation cohorts, respectively. Compared with the observation cohort, the 2-year PFS rate, 2-year OS rate, and DOR were increased in the TCM cohort (P<0.05). The PFS in the TCM cohort was higher than that in the observation cohort [HR=0.542, 95%CI(0.345-0.853), P<0.01]. The result of subgroup analysis showed that PFS in the TCM cohort was higher than that in the observation cohort in the age ≥60 years, AA stage Ⅲ-Ⅳ, CD4+ <lower limits of normal(LLN) subgroup(P<0.05). COX regression result showed that AA stage Ⅲ-Ⅳ[HR=2.180, 95%CI(1.064-4.466), P<0.05] and CD4+ <LLN [HR=2.840, 95%CI(1.253-6.434), P<0.05]were independent risk factors for DLBCL progression after chemotherapy. The TCM cohort had a protective factor [HR=0.538, 95%CI(0.297-0.974), P<0.05] that could reduce the risk of disease progression by 46.2%. The result of absolute lymphocyte subset count analysis showed that in the TCM cohort, CD3+, CD4+, and CD19+ levels were significantly higher 2 years after end of induction therapy(EOI) compared to at EOI (P<0.05). When comparing the two cohorts, the differences in CD3+ and CD4+ levels widened in the TCM cohort while narrowing in the observation cohort, and these changes between the two cohorts were statistically significant (P<0.05).ConclusionMaintenance treatment with Fuzheng Jiedu Formula can improve the survival rate of patients with DLBCL after chemotherapy and prolong their survival time. The benefits of this treatment are apparent in the age ≥ 60 years, AA stage Ⅲ-Ⅳ, and CD4+ <LLN cohort. Fuzheng Jiedu Formula can significantly reduce the risk of disease progression in patients with DLBCL after chemotherapy and increase the immune cell level. After completing chemotherapy, the sequential maintenance treatment with Fuzheng Jiedu Formula can offer significant survival benefits for patients with DLBCL.Keywords：Fuzheng Jiedu Formula;diffuse large B-cell lymphoma;maintenance therapy with traditional Chinese medicine;survival prognosis;lymphocyte subsets224|237|0<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Hematology and Oncology
- Abstract：ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of pre-electroacupuncture (EA) on spatial learning and memory, the locus coeruleus-hippocampal neural circuit, and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer′s disease (AD)-like rats, and to explore the possible mechanism of pre-EA in preventing and treating AD.MethodsThirty-six male SD rats were divided into the normal, model, EA, and sham EA groups using the random number table method, with nine rats per group. An AD-like rat model was prepared through intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/(kg·d) D-galactose for eight consecutive weeks. After daily intraperitoneal injection, the rats in the EA group underwent EA stimulation at the " Neiguan" (PC6) and " Jianshi" (PC5) acupoints with a continuous wave, frequency of 50 Hz, and a current of 1 mA for 20 min once a day for 8 weeks. The sham EA group was only superficially punctured to the subcutaneous tissue at the " Neiguan" (PC6) and " Jianshi" (PC5) acupoints without electricity, and the rest of the operations were the same as those in the EA group. The Morris water maze experiment was then used to evaluate the spatial learning and memory of the rats. Immunofluorescence labeling was used to detect dopamine β hydroxylase and c-Fos co-localization in the locus coeruleus of noradrenergic neurons, as well as glial fibrillary acidic protein and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) co-localization in the CA1 area of the hippocampus of astrocytes. Western blotting was used to measure the protein expressions of norepinephrine (NE), β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR), β-inhibitory protein 2 (β-arrestin2), nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) inhibitory factor protein α (IκBα), and NF-κB in the hippocampus of rats. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) contents in hippocampal tissue.ResultsCompared with the normal group, the average escape latency of the model group rats was prolonged, and the times of crossing platform and exploration time in the target quadrant were reduced (P<0.01), while the EA intervention can shorten the average escape latency and increase the times of crossing platform and exploration time in the target quadrant (P<0.01). Compared with the normal group, the expression of co-located noradrenergic neurons in the model group decreased, co-located astrocytes increased (P<0.01); NE, β2AR, β-arrestin2, and IκBα protein expression decreased(P<0.01), NF-κB protein expression increased (P<0.01); the contents of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the EA group showed an increase in the expression of co-located noradrenergic neurons, a decrease in co-located astrocytes (P<0.01), an increase in NE, β2AR, β-arrestin2, and IκBα protein expressions (P<0.01), a decrease in NF-κB protein expression (P<0.01), and a decrease in TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels (P<0.01). No significant difference was observed in the above indicators between the model and sham EA groups.ConclusionPre-EA at " Neiguan" (PC6) and " Jianshi" (PC5) can alleviate learning and memory dysfunction, alleviate noradrenergic neuronal loss in the locus coeruleus, inhibit astrocyte activation, protect the locus coeruleus-hippocampal neural circuit, and may be associated with inhibiting β2AR/β-arrestin2/NF-κB inflammatory pathway activation.Keywords：Alzheimer′s disease;pre-electroacupuncture;locus coeruleus;β2 adrenergic receptor/β-inhibitory protein 2/nuclear transcription factor kappa B pathway;neuroinflammation;rats151|441|3<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
- Abstract：The acupoint sensitization theory, a breakthrough in acupuncture and moxibustion over the past two decades, has greatly enhanced the understanding of meridians and acupoints while increasing the effectiveness of clinical diagnosis and treatment in acupuncture and moxibustion practices. The number of studies on surface sensitization site detection for different diseases is increasing. However, systematic sorting and a summary of the detection mode of surface sensitization points are lacking. Therefore, this study categorizes the method of surface sensitization point detection into two modes: pan-scanning and focused scanning. The classification is based on the characteristics of the openness of the research purpose, the precision of the target range, and the degree of variation during detection. The two modes have considerable differences in the exploration efficiency and the presentation of result. The pan-scanning mode can be further subdivided into holistic and localized pan-scanning modes, whereas the focused-scanning mode can be subdivided into fixed- and variable-focused scanning modes. This study analyzes the application scenarios, characteristics, advantages, and limitations of each detection mode and presents opinions on mode selection, mode innovation, and future development directions. This study aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for the follow-up research on surface sensitization site detection of various diseases.Keywords：acupoint sensitization;surface sensitization point;exploration mode;precise exploration;rough exploration107|323|0<HTML><L-PDF>Updated：2024-12-02
Acupuncture Moxibustion and Tuina
