Tangshenping granule inhibits pyroptosis in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy via the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pathway

ObjectiveTo explore the inhibitory effect of Tangshenping (TSP) on pyroptosis in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy (DN) rat model.MethodsDN was established in Sprague–Dawley rats. Rats were randomly divided into DN (model group), irbesartan, and TSP low-, medium-, and high-dose groups, besides the control group. The 24 h albuminuria content, and serum content of TC, TGs, Scr, IL-1β, UREA, LDLs, and IL-18 were assessed. Hematoxylin & eosin and Mallory staining were performed to examine pathological changes in the kidney. The mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3, caspase 1, and GSDMD in the kidney were also examined.ResultsThe 24 h albuminuria content was obviously lower in the treatment groups compared to the model group (all P < .01). Levels of TC, TGs, Scr, UREA, LDLs, and IL-18 after drug interventions were obviously lower compared to the model group (all P < .05). The serum content of IL-1β in the TSP medium- and high-dose groups were much lower compared to the model group (P = .013 and P = .001, respectively). Through immunohistochemistry and western blotting, we observed that the protein expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1, GSDMD, IL-1β, and IL-18 were lower after drug interventions compared to the model group (all P < .05). Using qPCR, we observed that the mRNA expressions of caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, and GSDMD after drug interventions were significantly lower compared to the model group (all P < .05). The mRNA expressions of NLRP3 in the TSP medium- and high-dose groups were both lower compared to the model group (all P < .05).ConclusionTSP downregulated mRNA and protein expressions of NLRP3, caspase-1, and GSDMD. Our findings demonstrate that the beneficial effects of TSP on renal function are at least partly mediated by the inhibition of micro-inflammation and modulation of the expression of pyroptosis-related factors.     

Hemostatic mechanism of the effect of Jianpi Yiqi Shexue decoction on vascular factors in immune thrombocytopenia model miceOA

Objective: To explore the hemostatic mechanism of Jianpi Yiqi Shexue decoction(JYSD) by regulating vascular factors in an immune thrombocytopenia(ITP) mouse model.Methods: An ITP mouse model was established by the passive-immune modeling method, and interventional drugs used were prednisone tablets and JYSD. The platelet count; vascular activity-related factors v WF, VCAM-1, and TM; and VEGF and b FGF were used as observational indicators.Results: On the 8th day of administration, compared with ...     

Effect of acupotomy on chondrocyte proliferation and expression of CyclinD1, CDK4 and CDK6 in rabbits with knee osteoarthritis

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of acupotomology (Apo) in the prevention of articular cartilage destruction via the promotion of chondrocyte proliferation and chondrocyte expression of cell cycle regulators, CyclinD1, CDK4 and CDK6 in a rabbit knee osteoarthritis (KOA) model.MethodsTwenty-eight rabbits were randomly divided into a control group, an OA (osteoarthritis) model group, an Apo (acupotomology) group and EA (electro-acupuncture) group (n = 7). Improved Videman's method was used to induce a rabbit model of KOA over 6 weeks. One week later, acupotomy and electro-acupuncture therapy was applied to animals in the respective groups and treatment lasted 4 weeks. Following these treatments, quantitative real-time PCR, immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were performed to assess the mRNA and protein levels of cell cycle regulators CyclinD1 (Cell cycle protein D1), CDK4 (Cyclin-dependent kinase 4) and CDK6 (Cyclin-dependent kinase 6). Ethology measures and knee morphology were also compared among groups.ResultsThe Lequesne MG index score of morphology was increased (P < .01), and the passive range of motion (PROM) and the mRNA and protein levels of CyclinD1, CDK4, and CDK6 were significantly decreased (P < .01) in the OA model compared with the control group. The Lequesne MG index score and the morphology score were decreased in the Apo and EA group compared with the OA model group (P < .05 or P < .01), while the mRNA levels of CyclinD1, CDK4, and CDK6, and the protein levels of CDK4 were increased in the Apo and EA groups compared with the OA model group (P < .05 or P < .01). The PROM, and the protein levels of CyclinD1 and CDK6 were increased (P < .05) in the Apo group compared with the OA model group, while the PROM and the protein levels of CyclinD1 and CDK6 in the EA group were not significantly different (P > .05). Compared with the EA group, the morphology score was decreased in Apo group (P < .05).ConclusionsThe mRNA levels of CyclinD1 and CDK4, and the protein level of CDK4 in chondrocytes are regulate by both Apo and EA. Apo is more effective than EA in regulating the protein levels of CyclinD1 and CDK6. According to the observed changes in morphology and cytokine levels, acupotomy can promote chondrocyte proliferation and can alleviate the destruction of articular cartilage in a model of KOA.     

Effects of Xiangsha Liujunzi decoction drug serum on gastric antrum smooth muscle cells from rats with functional dyspepsia by regulating gastrointestinal hormones

ObjectiveTo observe the effect and mechanism of Xiangsha Liujunzi decoction (XSLJZD) drug serum on gastric antrum smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in rats with functional dyspepsia (FD).MethodsGastric antrum SMCs from rats with FD were isolated, cultured, and then divided into six groups as follows: control, model, domperidone, low-dose XSLJZD (LXSLJZD), medium-dose XSLJZD (MXSLJZD), and high-dose XSLJZD (HXSLJZD). Each group was administered the corresponding drug serum for intervention. Drug serum intervention conditions and proliferative activity of SMCs were tested by cholecystokinin octapeptide. Ghrelin, gastrin, somatostatin, and substance P (SP) levels were measured by ELISA. Somatostatin and SP mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR.ResultsA concentration of 10% drug serum for 24 h was decided to be the best intervention condition for later study. The mean optical density value in the model group was lower than that in the control group (P = .001). Optical density values in the domperidone and HXSLJZD groups were higher than those in the model group (P = .025, P = .032, respectively). Gastrin, SP, and ghrelin levels in the model group were lower (P = .007, P = .037, P = .005, respectively), but somatostatin levels were higher, compared with those in the control group (P = .031). Gastrin, SP, and ghrelin levels in the domperidone, MXSLJZD, and HXSLJZD groups were higher than those in the model group (all P<.05). Somatostatin levels in the four drug-treated groups were lower than those in the model group (P = .002, P = .007, P = .001, P = .009, respectively). SP mRNA levels in the model group were lower than those in the control, domperidone, MXSLJZD, and HXSLJZD groups (P = .037 P = .016, P = .025, P = .002, respectively). Somatostatin mRNA levels in the model group were higher than those in the control and MXSLJZD groups (P = .042, P = .035).ConclusionsXSLJZD and domperidone drug serum effectively promote proliferative activity of gastric antrum SMCs in an FD model. The mechanism of this activity may be regulated by gastrointestinal hormones.     

Effects of electroacupuncture combined with hydrogel on the formation and changes in the glial scar in rats with spinal cord injuryOA

Objective: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture(EA) combined with oriented conductive bioprotein hydrogel(OCBH) on the recovery of nerve function in rats with complete spinal cord injury(SCI)and to explore its effect and mechanism on the formation and changes of glial scars.Methods: A total of 72 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into groups according to the treatment received. A rat model of complete SCI was constructed using a spinal cord transection.Behavioral assessment...     

Integrated network pharmacology and experimental verification to explore the mechanism of Sangqi Qingxuan formula against hypertensive vascular remodelingOA

Objective: To investigate the bioactive components of Sangqi Qingxuan formula(SQQX), predict the pharmacological targets, and explore the mechanism of hypertensive vascular remodeling(HVR).Methods: Network pharmacology was adopted to predict how SQQX acts in HVR. The effectiveness was assessed by blood pressure measurements and pathological morphology observation based on a spontaneously hypertensive rat model, while the mechanism of SQQX on HVR was validated by immunohistochemistry(IHC) and wes...     

Cardioprotective effect of Yiqi Huoxue granule through regulation of mitophagy after myocardial infarction in rats

ObjectiveTo investigate the cardioprotective effect of Yiqi Huoxue granule (YQHXG) in the regulation of autophagy in rats induced with myocardial infarction (MI).MethodsAn acute MI animal model was established by ligation of the left anterior descending branch of the coronary artery in Sprague-Dawley rats. Besides, 20 rats received sham operation were classified into a control group. The remaining 59 rats were randomly divided into MI model group (n = 19), YQHXG group (n = 20), and perindopril group (n = 20). Relevant indicators on days 7 and 28 were observed in each group. Left ventricular function was determined by echocardiography. The structure and morphology of mitochondria, and the number of autophagic vesicles, were observed by transmission electron microscopy. The mRNA and protein expression levels of LC3, FUNDC1, Beclin-1, and BNIP3 were examined in the tissue of the MI marginal area.ResultsCompared with the MI model group, YQHXG showed obvious improvements in cardiac functions. Observing the microscopic morphology of the heart tissue, myocardial tissue damage attenuated, autophagic signs of autophagosomes and autolysosomes reduced, vacuolization in mitochondria mitigated, and mitochondria arranged in order. YQHXG could reduce the degree of tissue lesion after MI and regulate the expression of autophagy-related molecules at different stages. On Day 7, YQHXG significantly downregulated the expression of Fundc1, Becn1, Bnip3 mRNA and reduced the levels of FUNDC1, Beclin-1, BNIP3, and LC3 B proteins expression (all P < .001). On Day 28, YQHXG could upregulate the expression of Becn1, Fundc1 and Bnip3 mRNA and increased the levels of the corresponding proteins expression (all P < .001). Besides, it also increased LC3 B protein expression level (P = .0344).ConclusionYQHXG regulated the expression of mitochondrial autophagy-related factors in myocardial tissue and mitochondrial autophagic activity at different stages to protect the heart following MI.     

Seasonal photoperiodic influence of pineal melatonin on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis-hippocampal-receptor in male ratsOA

Background: Based on the effect of seasonal changes on human visceral function, this study investigated the impact of seasonal photoperiod of the pineal body on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis-hippocampal-receptor in rats, aiming to reveal the mechanism by which pineal gland melatonin regulates the seasonal secretion of hippocampal neurotransmitters.Methods: Vernal equinox, summer solstice, autumn equinox, and winter solstice were selected as four experimental time points, and rats were rand...     

Tea polyphenols inhibit the growth and angiogenesis of breast cancer xenografts in a mouse model

ObjectiveTo investigate the anti-angiogenic effect of tea polyphenols (TP_S) on breast cancer and normal tissues in a mouse model.MethodsBreast cancer was successfully implanted into 48 BALB/c mice, which were then randomly divided into a TP oral gavage group, a TP local injection group, a ginsenoside Rg3 group, and a model control group according to a random number table. The tumor inhibitory rates of each group were calculated, while microvessel density (MVD) and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-2) were detected by immunohistochemistry.ResultsTPs could inhibit the growth of breast cancer xenografts in the mouse model. The tumor inhibition rates of the TP oral gavage and TP local injection groups were 37.43% and 40.94%, respectively. Compared with the model control group, MVD and VEGF and bFGF expression was downregulated (all P < .05), whereas TIMP-2 expression was elevated in the TP oral gavage and TP local injection groups (P = .015 and P = .032). TPs showed no significant effect on MVD and VEGF and TIMP-2 expression in the heart, brain, and kidney of the mouse model.ConclusionTPs can restrict the growth of breast cancer by specifically inhibiting the angiogenesis of breast tumor tissue while having little effect on the normal tissue of important organs including the heart, brain, and kidney.     

Intervention of the Mahuang Lianqiao Chixiaodou decoction on immune imbalance in atopic dermatitis-like model mice

ObjectiveTo explore the potential mechanism of intervention on the immune imbalance of atopic dermatitis (AD) by studying the effects of Mahuang Lianqiao Chixiaodou decoction (MLCD) on skin damage and inflammation factors in an AD-like mouse model.MethodsNinety-six male BALB/c mice were divided into normal, model, positive control (mometasone furoate), and traditional Chinese medicine treatment (MLCD) groups by a random number table. 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene was used to induce AD-like mice in all groups except the normal group. The treatment or intervention was administered for seven consecutive days on days 4, 18, 32, and 39. The mRNA relative expressions of interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-10, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), and the TSLP receptor (TSLPR) were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and the serum immunoglobulin E, IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ levels were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsCompared with the normal group, the hematoxylin-eosin staining of the skin lesions of the mice in the model group was significantly thickened on days 11, 25, and 39. Compared with the model group, the epidermal thickness of the positive control group was significantly alleviated on day 39 (P < .001), and that of the MLCD group was significantly improved on days 25 and 39 (P < .001). Compared with the four observation time points, MLCD had the best treatment effect on day 39 of the experiment and significantly improved the skin damage performance and relieved pathological lesions. On day 39, compared with the model group, MLCD downregulated the skin mRNA relative expressions of IL-4 (P = .009), TSLP (P = .030), and TSLPR (P < .001), and reduced the mouse serum levels of IL-4 (P = .003). For other serum indicators, no significant difference was observed between the model and MLCD groups.ConclusionMLCD improved AD-like mice skin damage by regulating the Th1/Th2 immune imbalance.     

Xiaoqinglong decoction reduces dendritic cell differentiation and regulates the Th1/Th2 balance in a mouse model of allergic asthma

BackgroundXiaoqinglong decoction (XQLD) is a classic Chinese medicinal formula that is widely used to treat allergic asthma. Recently, the use of XQLD to treat allergic asthma has inspired research to determine its mechanism of action. Because dendritic cells (DCs) and the T helper 1 (Th1)/Th2 cytokine balance play important roles in allergic asthma, the present work aimed to assess how these immune system components are affected by XQLD.MethodsThirty-six female BALB/C mice were randomly divided into three groups: an ovalbumin-based allergic asthma model group, a XQLD treatment group, and a control group. Histology was performed with haematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical staining. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood were collected from the animals and used to analyze the composition of inflammatory cells and expression levels of the cytokines interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-13. The thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) protein expression was assessed by western blot analysis, and the Gata3 and Tbx21 mRNA levels were assessed by polymerase chain reaction.ResultsCompared with the OVA group, the levels of TSLP expression, IL-5, IL-13, and immunoglobulin E in the XQLD group were lower (all P < .01). The level of IL-4-expressing cells (Th2 cells) was lower (P = .0013), and the percentage of IFN-γ-expressing cells (Th1 cells) was higher in the XQLD group compared with those in the OVA group (P = .0065). In addition, XQLD increased the expression of Tbx21 mRNA and decreased the expression of Gata3 mRNA in the lungs compared with the OVA group (both P < .01).ConclusionThese findings suggest that XQLD may ameliorate the course of allergic asthma by regulating the Gata3/Tbx21 balance and inhibiting TSLP expression, changes which are indicative of an altered Th1/Th2 balance. Thus, the clinical effectiveness of XQLD in treating allergic asthma may be due to its regulation of Th1/Th2 balance.     

Effects of Fuhe decoction on behaviors and monoamine neurotransmitters in different brain regions of CUMS combined with social isolation depression model rats

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of Fuhe decoction on the behavior and levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in different brain regions in a depression rat model induced by chronic unpredictable mild stimulation (CUMS) combined with social isolation.MethodsFifty male SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, model group, fluoxetine group, Chaiqinwendan decoction group, and Fuhe decoction group. Chronic unpredictable mild stimulation combined with a social isolation method was used to replicate the depression rat model. After 42 days of administration, a tail suspension test and high-performance liquid electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD) were used to detect the behavioral changes and changes in the content of monoamine neurotransmitters norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytrytamine (5-HT), and metabolites in different brain regions of rats in each group before and after treatment.ResultsCompared with the model group, the epinephrine (E) content in the Fuhe decoction group was highly significantly increased (P < .01). Compared with the model group, the 5-HT content of the prefrontal cortex in rats in the Fuhe decoction group was highly significantly increased (P < .01). Furthermore, compared with the model group, the 5-HT content in the hippocampus of rats in the Fuhe decoction group was significantly increased (P < .05).ConclusionFuhe decoction can improve the depression-like behaviors of model rats, and its antidepressant effect may be related to the increase in 5-HT content in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of rats.     

Ginsenoside Rb1 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic neuroinflammation in mice by tuning glial cell polarization

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) can attenuate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced chronic neuroinflammation in mice and to explore its relationship with glial cell polarization.MethodsIntraperitoneal injection with an escalating dose of LPS was used to establish a chronic neuroinflammation model in mice. Once LPS was initiated, 10 or 20 mg/kg Rb1, or sterile saline, was administered for 14 consecutive days. Open field test and beam walking test were used to monitor the changes in behavior. The concentration of cytokines in the serum and brain were used to monitor the systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation, respectively. Molecules specific to each glial cell phenotype were used to investigate glial cell polarization.ResultsMice in the LPS group had reduced spontaneous activities and impaired beam walking performance. Rb1 obviously eased LPS-induced behavior disturbances. Regarding the levels of serum cytokines, both tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were significantly increased, while interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) remarkably decreased after LPS treatment (all P < .001). Rb1 treatment significantly attenuated LPS-induced serum cytokine changes (all P < .05). The results of quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting showed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of TNF-α and complement component 3 (C3) in the brain were significantly increased after LPS treatment (all P < .01). Rb1 treatment significantly inhibited LPS-induced inflammation in the brain (all P < .05). Glial cell polarization analysis showed that M1 and M2 microglia, and A1 astrocytes increased following LPS treatment, while A2 astrocytes decreased. Rb1 treatment reduced M1 and M2 microglia, and A1 astrocytes, and significantly increased A2 astrocytes.ConclusionRb1 can attenuate chronic neuroinflammation induced by LPS in mice, which may be partially attributable to its fine tuning of microglia and astrocyte polarization. Rb1 has potential value for treating neurodegenerative diseases.     

Manipulation for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis: A systematic review of randomized controlled trialsOA

Objective: To assess the effectiveness and safety of manipulation intervention for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis(DLS).Methods: This is a systematic review and meta-analysis. A full-scale retrieval method was performed until February 1, 2021, including nine databases. The homogeneity of different studies was summarized using the Review Manager. The quality of studies was determined with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool.The evidence quality was graded with the Grading of Recommendations, Ass...     

Correlation of gut microbiota and neurotransmitters in a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder

ObjectiveTo determine the effect of gut microbiota on a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and explore the correlation of gut microbiota with behavior and neurotransmitters.MethodsWe established a single prolonged stress (SPS) model to examine the pathogenesis of PTSD on rat behavior, gut microbiota, and neurotransmitter levels. Rats were separated into control and model groups, and neurotransmitter levels were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Then, 16 S rRNA sequencing was used to compare the gut microbiota between the control and model groups.ResultsCompared with those in the control group, freezing time significantly increased, while number of standing upright, crossing frequency, time spent in the central arena, and total distance traveled were significantly reduced in the model group after exposure to SPS (all P < .05). Meanwhile, serotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, levels in the brain in the model group were significantly lower than those the control group (P = .0332). In addition, changes were observed in the gut microbiota diversity and relative abundances of bacterial phyla, orders, families, and genera in the model group. Especially, changes in Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, and Proteobacteria levels were most pronounced after SPS exposure. Correlation analysis showed that the strongest positive correlation was found between Bacteroidaceae and 5-HT (P = .0009). Moreover, RF32 abundance was the most negatively related to 5-HT (P = .0009), crossing frequency (P = .0007), and total distance (P = .0003).ConclusionOur results suggest that SPS model rats showed differences in behavior, neurotransmitter levels, and gut microbiota with control rats. Moreover, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, and Proteobacteria were most relevant to the exhibited fear-like and anxiety-like behaviors and significant serotonin content reduction in SPS model rats.     

Effect of the pineal gland on 5-hydroxytryptamine and γ-aminobutyric acid secretion in the hippocampus of male rats during the summer and winter

ObjectiveThe present study aimed to investigate the effect of seasonal variation on neurotransmitter release in the hippocampus of normal rats and rats with pineal excision.MethodsTwo time points, the summer and winter solstice, which are the longest and shortest days of the year, respectively, were selected. Male Sprague–Dawley rats that underwent a sham operation without pineal excision were included as a control group. The concentrations of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) were determined by radioimmunoassays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively.ResultsIn the winter, the 5-HT and GABA levels in normal rats exhibited a significant difference compared with those in the operation group (P < .01). A difference was also noted in GABA levels between the normal group and the sham operation group (P < .05). The concentrations of 5-HT and GABA in the hippocampal tissues of the normal group exhibited a seasonal rhythm consisting of elevation during the summer and reduction during the winter (P < .01), while the GABA levels in the sham operation group exhibited a significant difference, with elevation during the summer and reduction during the winter (P < .01). In the operation group, GABA showed the same trend (P < .01).ConclusionThe seasonal rhythm of neurotransmitter secretion by the hippocampus (5-HT and GABA) consisted of elevation during the summer and reduction during the winter. During the winter, the pineal gland exhibited a reverse regulatory effect on the secretion of 5-HT and GABA in the hippocampus, and it exhibited seasonal selectivity with regard to the regulation of 5-HT.     

Effects of a combination of Japanese Raisin Tree Seed and Flower of Lobed Kudzuvine against acute alcohol-induced liver injury in mice

ObjectiveThe Flower of Lobed Kudzuvine [Pueraria lobata (Willd.)Ohwi; Gehua in Chinese; GH] and Japanese Raisin Tree Seed (Hovenia dulcis Thunnb.; Zhijuzi in Chinese; ZJZ) are herbs that have been used in China for the treatment of alcohol intoxication and liver diseases. We aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of a combination of these in mice with acute alcohol-induced liver injury, and to elucidate the mechanisms involved.MethodsMale ICR mice were randomly allocated to six groups: a control group, an alcohol-administered group, and groups that were administered alcohol and one of silibinin, the GH, the ZJZ or a GH-ZJZ combination (at a ratio of 2:1). Animals were orally administered 56% alcohol (Er Guo-tou white spirit, 0.12 mL/10 g/d) for 10 days and at the end of this period, hepatic biochemical indicators, antioxidant parameters, alcohol metabolic enzymes, and histopathologic changes were evaluated. Moreover, the expression of the signaling molecules KEAP1, NRF2, and AQP9 were measured by qRT-PCR and western blotting.ResultsCompared with the model group, GH-ZJZ (2:1) had lower serum ALT (12.15 ± 0.39, P = .003), AST (104.07 ± 1.03, P = .001), and ALP (148.09 ± 2.55, P = .010) activities, and lower TC (1.97 ± 0.05, P = .001) and TG (1.54 ± 0.07, P = .002) concentrations. GH-ZJZ (2:1) also significantly increased the hepatic activities of SOD and GSH (4.24 ± 0.25 and 1.57 ± 0.06, respectively; both P < .01), reduced the ROS and MDA concentrations (97.50 ± 3.00 and 2.39 ± 0.19, respectively; both P < .01), and upregulated Nrf2 expression (P < .01). GH-ZJZ (2:1) significantly reduced the expression of KEAP1 and AQP9 in the liver, compared with alcohol-administered mice (P < .01). Importantly, the GH-ZJZ combination caused a more marked improvement in acute liver injury than GH or ZJZ alone.ConclusionWe have demonstrated protective effects of GH-ZJZ (2:1) against acute alcohol-induced hepatic injury, and shown that these effects may be associated with improvements in lipid and alcohol metabolism, antioxidant capacity, and lipid peroxidation.     

Effect and mechanism of CyPA in radiosensitization of lung adenocarcinoma using CRISPR/Cas9 technology

ObjectiveTo explore the role of cyclophilin A (CyPA) in sensitization of lung adenocarcinoma to radiotherapy using CRISPR/Cas9 technology.MethodsA CyPA knockout human lung adenocarcinoma cell line H1975 was established by CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Groups included a control group (wildtype), CyPA knockout group, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction group, and TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction + CyPA knockout group. Each group was exposed to radiation at doses of 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 Gy. After 24 h, MTT assays were used to determine the survival rate of lung cancer cells and calculate radiosensitivity. The qPCR was used to measure mRNA expression of DDIT3, CDKN1A, and CDC25A associated with DNA damage repair.ResultsWithout irradiation, Fuzhengzengxiao decoction reduced the survival rate of lung adenocarcinoma cells (P < .0001). After irradiation, TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction, CyPA knockout, and TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction + CyPA knockout groups had reduced survival rates (P < .0001) and radiosensitivity was increased significantly. Expression of DDIT3, CDKN1A, and CDC25A was upregulated after knockout of CyPA (P < .0001). Expression of DDIT3 and CDC25A was increased after irradiation in wildtype cells treated with TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction (DDIT3, P < .0001; CDC25A, P = .0059). The TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction + CyPA knockout group also had increased expression of DDIT3 and CDC25A after irradiation (P < .0001).ConclusionFuzhengzengxiao decoction significantly decreases the survival rate of lung cancer cells, and its mechanism may be related to radiosensitization by decreasing expression of CyPA and inducing G1/S cell cycle arrest.     

Assessment of traditional Chinese medicine pattern in a bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mouse model: A pilot studyOA

Objective:To initially explore traditional Chinese medicine patterns in a bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mouse model.Methods:Thirty-six C57 BL/6 mice were divided by the random number table method(with 12 rats per group) into three groups:a blank group,a model group,and a number 2 Feibi recipe(FBR-2) group.The pulmonary fibrosis mouse model was established by intratracheal instillation of bleomycin.The FBR-2 group was treated with FBR-2 for 4 weeks.Symptoms in the mice such as mental behav...