Objective To investigate the withanolides from the aerial parts of Physalis minima and evaluate their in vitro anti-tumor activities against human colon cancer (HCT-116), triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB-231), and human erythroleukemia (HEL) cell lines. Methods The chemical constituents were isolated and purified using various chromatographic techniques. Their structures were elucidated through a comprehensive analysis of spectroscopic data, including infrared (IR), high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The proliferation inhibitory activitiesof the isolated compounds against the above three cancer cell lines were evaluated using the MTT assay. Results Eight withanolides were isolated and identified from the aerial parts of P. minima, including two new compounds (1 and 2), which were characterized as (8R,9S,10R,13R,14R,16S,17R,20S,22R,24S)-14α,17α:16α,24α-diepoxy-13α,14β,22α-trihydroxy-1,15-dione-13,14-seco-ergosta-2,5-diene- 18,20-olide (1) and (8R,9S,10R,13R,14R,16S,17R,20S,22R,24R,25R)-14α,17α:14,27-diepoxy-13α,22α-dihydroxy-1,15-dione-13,14-seco-ergosta-2,5-diene-18,20-olide-24-propionic acid (2). The known compounds were identified as 5α-ethoxy-6β-hydroxy-5,6-dihydrophysalin B (3), physalin VI (4), physaminin F (5), physagulide D (6), pubesenolide (7), and physaminilide I (8). The in vitro bioassay results demonstrated that three compounds (1, 3, and 5) exhibited potent inhibitory activities against HCT-116 cells, with IC₅₀ values ranging from (10.97 ±1.62) to (39.20 ±2.17) μmol/L. Compound 3 displayed an IC₅₀ value of (19.36 ±1.03) μmol/L against MDA-MB-231 cells. Additionally, three compounds (1, 3, and 4) showed inhibitory effects on HEL cells, with IC₅₀ values ranging from (8.27 ±0.37) to (38.97 ±1.77) μmol/L. Conclusion Compounds 1 and 2 are new compounds. Compound 1 represents the first reported 22, 26-seco-nor-physalin, named phyminate A , while compound 2 is the first 22,26-seco-physalin featuring a 24-propionic acid moiety and a C-14/C-27 ether bridge, named phyminate B. The inhibitory activities of compounds 1, 3—5 against three tumor cell lines indicate their potential as anti-cancer candidates, justifying in-depth study.

Objective To study cycloartane triterpenoids from Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus and their protective effects against cisplatin-induced renal injury. Methods The constituents were isolated from non-polysaccharide fractions of the aqueous extract of Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus by employing multiple chromatographic techniques including silica gel, Sephadex LH-20 and ODS. Their structures were identified based on the physicochemical properties as well as spectroscopic and spectrometric data. Their protective activities against renal injury were evaluated by detecting the cell viability of human renal proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells injured by cisplatin. Results Four cycloartane triterpenoids were isolated from Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus and identified as 12-carboxy-20,24,25-trihydroxy-3-(β-D-xylopyranosyloxy)-6-(β-D-glucopyra- nosyloxy)-7(8)-ene-9,10-secocycloartane (1), astragaloside II (2), astragaloside Ⅳ (3) and astragaloside Ⅰ (4). Additionally, compounds 2 and 3 could significantly improve the decreased cell viability induced by cisplatin (P < 0.05). Conclusion Compound 1 is a novel homocycloartane triterpenoid named homoastragaloside A, and compounds 2 and 3 exhibit protective effects against renal injury.

Objective To investigate the terpenoid constituents of fruit shells of Euphorbia peplus and evaluate their anti-inflammatory activities. Methods Various chromatographic techniques were applied to isolate terpenoids from the petroleum ether-soluble fraction of the ethanol extract of E. peplus fruit shells. The chemical structures of all isolates were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses (1D/2D NMR, HRMS) combined with single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Anti-inflammatory activities were assessed by measuring the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. Results A total of 13 terpenoids were isolated from the petroleum ether fraction of E. peplus fruit shells, including four paraliane-type diterpenoids (1–4), one pepluane-type diterpenoid (5), three jatrophane-type diterpenoids (6–8), two ingenane-type diterpenoids (9 and 10), one abietane-type diterpenoid (11), one ursane-type triterpenoid (12), and one dinor-monocyclic diterpenoid (13). They were respectively identified as (2S,3S,4R,5R,6R,8S,12S,13S,15R)-8b-acetyl-paralianone D (1), (1R,2R,3S,4R,5R,6R,8S,12S,13S,14R, 15R)-1,5,8,14-tetraacetoxy-3-benzoyloxy-15-hydroxy-9-oxo-paraliane (2), (2S,3S,4R,5R,6R,8S,12S,13S,14R,15R)-5,8,14-triacetoxy-3-benzoyloxy-15-hydroxy-9-oxo-parapliane (3), paralianone A (4), (2S,3S,4R,5R,6R,8R,9R,10R,12S,13S,14R,15R)-5,8,9,10,14-pentaacetoxy-3-benzoyloxy-15-hydroxypepluane (5), euphpepluone A (6), euphpepluone D (7), (2S,3S,4R,5R,7S,8R,13S,15R)-5α,7b,8α-triacetoxy-3b-benzoyloxy-15b-hydroxyjatropha-6(17),11E-diene-9,14-dione (8), 20-deoxyingenol (9), 20-O-(2¢E,4¢Z-decadienoyl)ingenol (10), helioscopinolide D (11), ursolic acid (12) and (3R,6R,7E,9E,11E)-3-hydroxy-13-apo-α-caroten-13-one (13). The structure of compound 1 was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In the anti-inflammatory activity screening, only compound 2 exhibited inhibitory activity against NO production, with an IC₅₀ value of (37.6 ±8.2) μmol/L. Conclusion Compounds 1, 2, 10, and 13 were isolated from E. peplus for the first time. Compound 2 demonstrated moderate anti-inflammatory activity. This study enriches the terpenoid chemical diversity of terpenoids from E. peplus and provides an experimental basis for further research on its anti-inflammatory substances.

Objective To investigate the chemical constituents of the branches of Broussonetia papyrifera and screen for compounds with cytotoxic activity against primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) cells. Methods The compounds were isolated and purified by various chromatographic techniques including silica gel, RP-18, Sephadex LH-20, and MCI column chromatographies, as well as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Their structures were identified by spectroscopic methods. The cytotoxicity of the isolates against PEL cell lines (BC-3 and BCBL-1) was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. The effects of active compounds on cell apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results Nineteen compounds were isolated and identified as broussoflavonol B (1), 8-prenylquercetin-3-methyl ether (2), taxifolin (3), liquiritigenin (4), (＋)-medioresinol (5), (＋)-syringaresinol (6), dadahol B (7), diospyrosin (8), balanophonin (9), 5-methoxybalanophonin (10), isokhellactone (11), nodakenetin (12), rutamarin (13), smyrindiol (14), marmesin (15), 8-methoxymarmesin (16), 7-demethylsuberosin (17), umbelliferone (18), and n-hexacosyl (E)-p-coumarate (19). Compounds 1,7 and 17 exhibited significant inhibitory activity against PEL cells. Among them, compound 7 showed half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of 16.05 and 16.90 μmol/L against BC-3 and BCBL-1 cells, respectively. Further studies indicated that compound 7 could notably induce apoptosis and arrest cell cycle in PEL cells. Conclusion Compounds 8,17 and 19 were isolated from the Moraceae for the first time, while compounds 9—11 and 13 were obtained from the genus Broussonetia for the first time. Compound 7 exerts its anti-PEL activity by inducing cell apoptosis and blocking cell cycle progression.

Objective To investigate the compositional distribution, in vitro release, and pharmacokinetic behavior of different phases in the Huangqin (Scutellariae Radix, SR)-Zhigancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Praeparata cum Melle, GRRPM) decoction, and to elucidate the physical structural basis for the delayed and enhanced efficacy mediated by herb compatibility. Methods The decoction was separated into nanoparticulate, true solution, and precipitate phases by centrifugation combined with dialysis. The particle size and morphology of these phases were characterized. The contents of major active components baicalin, wogonoside, liquiritin apioside, glycyrrhizic acid, and others were determined by HPLC, and their in vitro release profiles were evaluated. The plasma concentration of baicalin in rats after oral administration of different phases was measured using LC-MS/MS, and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Results Significant differences in particle size and morphology were observed among the phases. The mass fractions of liquiritin apioside, baicalin, wogonoside, and glycyrrhizic acid in each phase decreased in the order: nanoparticulate phase > true solution phase > precipitate phase. All four components showed the highest release from the nanoparticulate phase, followed by the true solution phase, and the lowest release from the precipitate phase. After oral administration of the whole extract and the different phases, the C_max and AUC_0-t of baicalin ranked as follows: nanoparticulate phase > whole extract > true solution phase > precipitate phase. Conclusion The formation of a complex multiphase system in the SR-GRRPM decoction significantly affects the spatial distribution, in vitro release, and pharmacokinetic behavior of the active constituents. This may represent the physical structural basis underlying the delayed and enhanced efficacy resulting from the combination of the two herbs.

Objective To investigate the effects of different types of vinegar as processing excipients on the main components and antioxidant activity of Qingpi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride, CRPV), aiming to provide a basis for optimizing the vinegar stir-frying processing technology and establishing quality standards for vinegar used as a processing excipient in traditional Chinese medicine. Methods The influence of 20 batches of vinegar as processing excipients on the main components of CRPV was studied using HPLC combined with chemical pattern recognition. The antioxidant activity of CRPV processed with different vinegars was determined by DPPH and ABTS assays. A comprehensive score was calculated by weighting averaging of principal component scores based on their contribution rates. Orthogonal partial least squares-discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA) was employed to identify differential markers for distinguishing different vinegar-processed products. Results A total of 15 common peaks were calibrated in the HPLC of vinegar-processed CRPV, and six flavonoids, including narirutin, hesperidin, didymin, hesperetin, sinensetin, and nobiletin, were identified. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that CRPV processed with mature vinegar achieved the highest comprehensive score, followed by those processed with white vinegar, rice vinegar, and balsamic vinegar, respectively. Hesperetin and hesperidin can serve as differential markers to distinguish the different vinegar-processed CRPV products. In vitro antioxidant assays showed that CRPV processed with white vinegar exhibited the strongest DPPH radical scavenging ability, while raw CRPV possessed the optimal ABTS radical scavenging capacity. The antioxidant potency composite (APC) index was highest for the white vinegar-processed product ranked the highest, followed by those processed with aromatic vinegar, rice vinegar, and aged vinegar. Conclusions The type of vinegar excert selective effects on the dissolution and transformation of flavonoid components in CRPV and modulate its antioxidant activity. Mature vinegar is more conducive to the retention of flavonoid components, while white vinegar can significantly enhance its antioxidant capacity. In practical applications, the selection should be tailored according to specific therapeutic objectives.

Objective To optimize the processing technology for ginger-steamed Sharen (Amomi Fructus, AF) kernels and establish UPLC fingerprints before and after ginger-steaming. Methods Using the contents of volatile oil, bornyl acetate, extracts, 6-gingerol, vanillic acid, epicatechin, and quercitrin as evaluation indicators, the combined AHP-entropy weight method composite weighting method was employed to determine the weight coefficients of each indicator. Combined with the Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology (BBD-RSM), the effects of ginger juice dosage, moistening duration, steaming duration, and drying temperature on the ginger-steaming process of AF kernels were investigated to determine the optimal process parameters. UPLC fingerprints of AF kernels and ginger-steamed AF kernels were established and imported into the “Traditional Chinese Medicine Chromatographic Fingerprint Similarity Evaluation System” (2012 edition) for pattern analysis. Chemometrics was used to compare the differences before and after processing. Results The optimal processing conditions for ginger-steamed AF kernels were determined as follows: ginger juice dosage 15%, moistening duration 3 h, steaming duration 38 min, drying temperature 60 ℃. Comparative analysis of the fingerprints before and after processing identified two differential components, which were ranked by variable importance projection (VIP) value as peak 6 (vanillic acid) > peak 8. Conclusion The optimized processing technology of ginger-steamed AF kernels is stable, reliable and reproducible. The method of UPLC fingerprint combined with chemometrics to screen quality difference markers before and after processing is simple and convenient, which can provide a scientific reference for the quality control and evaluation of ginger-steamed AF kernels.

Objective To optimize the best processing technology of Wumei (Mume Fructus, MF) flesh and determine the best processing parameters. Methods The contents of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid and caffeic acid were determined by HPLC. The content of polysaccharide in MF flesh was determined by ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer. The content of each chemical component, the content of water-soluble extracts and the appearance traits were selected as the evaluation indexes, and the weight coefficient of each evaluation index was determined by analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-entropy weight method hybrid weighting method. The L₉(3⁴) orthogonal test was carried out with water addition, moistening time and steaming time as factors. Back propagation neural network (BPNN) was used to predict and verify the optimal processing parameters of MF flesh. Results The BPNN optimization process was superior to the orthogonal screening process, and the prediction results were stable and reliable. The composite score was the highest, which was 83.26. The best steaming process of MF flesh was 22.5 kg of water per 100 kg of MF flesh, moistening for 60 min, and steaming for 30 min. Conclusion The determined processing technology of MF flesh is scientific and feasible, which can provide scientific data support for the industrial production of decoction pieces, and also provide a theoretical basis for ensuring the quality and clinical application of MF flesh.

Objective To select the optimal alcohol extraction process for the classic prescription Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction (XZD, 血府逐瘀汤), enabling the retention of small-molecule substances in traditional aqueous extracts, thereby providing experimental basis for the development of transdermal formulations. Methods The contents of 12 active components (adenosine, catalpol, amygdalin, hydroxysafflor yellow A, paeoniflorin, ferulic acid, liquiritin, narirutin, naringin, hesperidin, neohesperidin, glycyrrhizic acid) in XZD, the extract yield, and the fingerprint similarity were used as critical quality attributes (CQAs). Ethanol concentration, extraction time, and solvent ratio were selected as critical process parameters (CPPs), and experiments were conducted using a Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology (BBD-RSM). The benchmark correlation degree of each experimental sample index was calculated, and the weights of each CQA were determined using the entropy weight method to compute a comprehensive score. The TOPSIS model was applied to calculate the relative closeness of each sample to the benchmark sample and rank them, with the optimal alcohol extraction process screened based on the comprehensive score. Additionally, ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) was used to description the chemical components of the benchmark sample and the optimal alcohol extraction process sample, further verifying retention effect of small-molecule components.. Results Analysis using the entropy weight-TOPSIS model determined the optimal alcohol extraction process for XZD as follows: ten times the amount of 60% ethanol, with each extraction lastin 3 h. The average comprehensive score of three validation samples reached 0.501, with RSD of 0.75%, which met the requirements and confirmed that the process was stable and the method was applicable. Meanwhile, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis showed that the main chemical composition of the optimal process sample were similar to those of the benchmark sample. Conclusion The comprehensive screening strategy based on the benchmark correlation degree and entropy weight-TOPSIS model is feasible and effective. The obtained XZD alcohol extraction process parameters are robust and reliable, and the small molecule substances of the benchmark decoction can be effectively retained. The chemical substance basis is similar to that of the benchmark decoction. This study can provide a reference for the research and development of XZD transdermal formulations.

Objective To prepare lentinan-buddleoside self-assembled nanoparticles (Len-Bud-SANs), and evaluate investigate its physicochemical properties, oral pharmacokinetic behavior and acute toxicity. Methods Len-Bud-SANs were prepared by self-assembled method. Envelopment efficiency, drug loading and particle size were employed as indicators, single factor experiments combined with Box-Behnken design-response surface method (BBD-RSM) were used to obtainoptimal prescriptions of Len-Bud-SANs. The appearance of Len-Bud-SANs was observed by transmission electron microscope (TEM) was, crystal form of Len-Bud-SANs powder was analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). Molecular simulation docking and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to study the binding mechanism between lentinan and buddleoside. The solubility and drug release behavior of Len-Bud-SANs were determined in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at pH 2.0 and pH 6.8. SD rats in each group were administered intragastrically with buddleoside suspension and Len-Bud-SANs powder, then buddleoside concentration in plasma was analyzed by HPLC method, and main pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Safety evaluation of Len-Bud-SANs powder was performed by indicators of body weight, food intake, thymus index and spleen index. Pathological conditions of the important organs were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Results Optimal formulation of Len-Bud-SANs: mass fraction of lentinan was 0.39%, preparation temperature was 65.00 ℃, and preparation time was 1.50 h. Envelopment efficiency, drug loading, particle size and ζ potential were (88.57 ±0.83)%, (8.02 ±0.11)%, (57.54 ±4.90) nm and (−32.10 ±1.36) mV, respectively. Microscopic appearance of Len-Bud-SANs was spherical, and buddleoside existed as an amorphous form in Len-Bud-SANs powder. Solubility of Len-Bud-SANs in phosphate buffer solution of pH 2.0 and pH 6.8 was increased to 59.89 times and 42.95 times, and cumulative release rate were increased to 90.80% and 91.73%, respectively. Drug release behavior of Len-Bud-SANs conformed to Weibull model. Oral pharmacokinetic results showed that t_1/2 of Len-Bud-SANs was increased to (4.45 ±0.80) h, C_max and AUC_0-t were increased to 3.00-fold and 5.60-fold. Compared with the blank group, there was no significant change in body weight, food intake, thymus index, spleen index and pathology of important organs in the Len-Bud-SANs group. Conclusion Len-Bud-SANs significantly promoted oral absorption of buddleoside effectively, and no obvious toxicity was observed, which laid the foundation for subsequent research and development.

Objective To investigate the effect and mechanism of Chuanxiong (Chuanxiong Rhizoma) oil inhalation via nasal administration on chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depressive mice. Methods The main components of Chuanxiong Rhizoma oil were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A CUMS-induced depressive mouse model was established, and after drug intervention, the pharmacological effects of Chuanxiong Rhizoma oil were evaluated through behavioral tests, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Nissl staining. Mechanistic studies were conducted using ELISA, Western blotting, qRT-PCR and 16S rRNA. Results GC-MS identified Z-ligustilide and senkyunolide A as the primary components of Chuanxiong Rhizoma oil. Nasal inhalation of Chuanxiong Rhizoma oil significantly alleviated depressive-like behaviors in CUMS mice (P < 0.05, 0.01), reduced hippocampal neuronal damage, upregulated the expressions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB)/cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway related proteins in hippocampus (P < 0.05, 0.01), elevated levels of monoamine neurotransmitters such as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) (P < 0.05, 0.01), inhibited the hyperactivity of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (P < 0.05, 0.01), suppressed pro-inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in colon tissue (P < 0.05, 0.01), enhanced barrier function (P < 0.05, 0.01), and significantly ameliorated CUMS-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis. The CREB-specific inhibitor 666-15 significantly reversed the antidepressant effects of Chuanxiong Rhizoma oil (P < 0.01). Conclusion Nasal inhalation of Chuanxiong Rhizoma oil alleviates depression by improving gut dysfunction through BDNF/TrkB/CREB pathway.

Objective To explore the mechanism by which muscone improves cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Methods C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) group, muscone low-, medium-, and high-dose (24, 36, 48 mg/kg) groups, a cisplatin-induced AKI mouse model was established. After drug intervention, renal tissue pathological changes were observed using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expressions and distribution of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) in kidney. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (SCr) levels were detected. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression and distribution of cleaved cysteine aspartate protease-3 (cleaved Caspase-3) in renal tissue. An NRK-52E cell injury model induced by cisplatin was established, the effects of cisplatin, muscone and p53 inhibitor pifithrin-μ on cell viability were detected using MTT assay. The morphological change of cells was observed under an inverted microscope. Calcein AM/PI staining was used to observe cell death. Hoechest 33342 staining was used to observe the fragmentation of cell nuclei. Cell death types was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression and distribution of p53. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase-3 and p53. MitoSOX staining was used to detect the levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS). Immunoprecipitation was used to detect the level of p53 ubiquitination modification. Results Muscone significantly reduced the renal pathological damage caused by cisplatin, restored the morphology of renal tubules (P < 0.01), decreased the expressions and distribution of NGAL, Kim-1 and cleaved Caspase-3 in renal tissue (P < 0.01), reduced the levels of BUN and SCr (P < 0.01). Muscone and pifithrin-μ significantly inhibited cisplatin-induced apoptosis and mtROS level in NRK-52E cells (P < 0.01), upregulated Caspase-3 protein expression (P < 0.05, 0.01), downregulated cleaved Caspase-3 and p53 protein expressions (P < 0.05, 0.01), and promoted p53 ubiquitination modification (P < 0.05). Conclusion Muscone inhibits apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells by promoting p53 ubiquitination modification, thereby improving cisplatin-induced AKI.

Objective To explore the mechanism of Diterpene Ginkgolides Meglumine Injection (银杏二萜内酯葡胺注射液, DGMI) in treatment of acute ischemic stroke (IS) based on platelet generation and activation. Methods Sham group, model group, ibrutinib (10 mg/kg) group, DGMI low-, medium- and high-dose (6.25, 12.50, 25.00 mg/kg) groups were established. A transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model was prepared in C57BL/6 mice using suture method. Medication was administered continuously for 3 d starting 0.5 h after surgery. The infarct rate was measured using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Motor and neurological function were evaluated using spinning rod experiment and Bederson score. Flow cytometry and ELISA were used to detect the whole blood platelet count and platelet factor 4 (PF4) level in serum. Bone marrow smears and immunohistochemistry were used to observe the proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and phosphorylation levels of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in bone marrow megakaryocytes. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect platelet activation and FAK phosphorylation levels in brain tissue. A combination group of FAK agonist ZINC40099027 (ZIN) and medium-dose DGMI was set up to verify whether DGMI exerts a protective effect by inhibiting FAK activation. Results DGMI significantly reduced cerebral infarction and megakaryocyte generation in tMCAO mice. Among them, the inhibitory effect of medium-dose DGMI on differentiation and proliferation of bone marrow megakaryocytes in tMCAO mice, as well as the improvement of cerebral infarction area, motor coordination ability and neurological function score were the most significant (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). In addition, DGMI could significantly reduce the number of platelets and PF4 level in serum of tMCAO mice (P < 0.05, 0.001), and inhibit the phosphorylation of FAK in bone marrow megakaryocytes and infiltrating platelets in brain (P < 0.01, 0.001). The FAK agonist ZIN significantly reversed the protective effects of DGMI on tMCAO mice (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). Conclusion DGMI exerts neuroprotective effects by inhibiting the excessive generation of megakaryocytes during the acute phase of IS and the phosphorylation of FAK in infiltrating platelets in the brain, thereby suppressing platelet generation and activation.

Objective To split the classic prescription Baoyuan Decoction (保元汤) into different phases, study the relieving effects of different phases on exercise fatigue in rats, and screen for their effective phases. Methods The gradient centrifugation dialysis method was used to separate Baoyuan Decoction into the nano phase (BD nano phase, BD-N), precipitation phase (BD-P) and solution phase (BD-S). The appearance was physically characterized and contents of main ingredients was determined. A rat swimming fatigue model was established, control group, model group, positive control (Dazhu Hongjingtian Capsule) group, Baoyuan Decoction group, BD-N group and BD-P group were set up, active phases was screened by measuring behavioral indicators, organ indices, serum biochemical indicators, and pathological changes in liver and muscle tissues. Based on combined analysis of gut microbiome, metabolomics and transcriptomics, the potential mechanism of Baoyuan Decoction and its effective phase in alleviating exercise fatigue in rats was explored. Four differentially expressed genes (Gck, Ackr3, Pde4b, Ppp1r3b) were randomly selected for qRT-PCR validation. Results The particle morphology of BD-N was spherical and Tyndall effect was significant. The particle size was in the order of BD-P > Baoyuan Decoction > BD-N. The polydispersity index (PDI) of each phase was in the order of Baoyuan Decoction > BD-N > BD-P. The absolute value of zeta potential for each phase was BD-P > BD-N > Baoyuan Decoction. Ginsenoside Rb₁, calycosin-7- O-β-D-glucoside, liquiritin, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, cinnamic acid, cinnamaldehyde and 6-gingerol were mainly distributed in BD-N. The comprehensive efficacy ranking was Baoyuan Decoction ≈ positive control drug > BD-N > BD-P. The ability of BD-N in regulating the abundance of gut microbiota, increasing the level of Lactobacillus genus and regulating 45 differential metabolites related to fatigue was similar to Baoyuan Decoction. The qRT-PCR results showed that the regulatory trends of BD-N and Baoyuan Decoction on four genes were consistent with the transcriptome sequencing results. Conclusion From the perspective of physics, chemistry and pharmacological effects, the effective phase of Baoyuan Decoction in relieving fatigue is screened, and BD-N is the effective phase of Baoyuan Decoction in relieving fatigue.

Objective To investigate the mechanism of Wumei Pill (乌梅丸) in delaying the transformation of colitis cancer using microbiome and metabolomics. Methods A colitis cancer transformation animal model was constructed using azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). A total of 32 C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, and Wumei Pill low-, high-dose (11.18, 22.36 g/kg) groups. Colonic tumor progression and histopathological changes were evaluated by intestinal endoscopic observation, macroscopic specimen assessment and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum, and levels of total bile acids (TBA), cholic acid (CA), deoxycholic acid (DCA), lithocholic acid (LCA) in serum and in feces were measured by ELISA. 16S rRNA sequencing technology was used to analyze gut microbial diversity and species abundance. The abundance of metabolites was assessed by non-targeted metabolomics analysis. qRT-PCR was used to verify the expression changes of Clostridium scindens (C. scindens), Clostridium hylemonae (C. hylemonae), Clostridium hiranonis (C. hiranonis) and the coenzyme A transferase encoding gene BaiF. Results Compared with model group, the intervention of Wumei Pill could delay the transformation of colitis cancer, and the therapeutic effect was better at low dose of Wumei Pill. Low dose Wumei Pill could significantly reduce the number of colon tumors (P < 0.001), lower colitis and tumor pathology scores (P < 0.05, 0.01), and lower levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in serum (P < 0.01, 0.001). The microbiological results showed that Wumei Pill could improve the structure of intestinal microbiota, reduce the abundance of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria such as Clostridium, and increase the abundance of probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Roseburia. The non-targeted metabolomics results showed that there were 82 differential metabolites between Wumei Pill low-dose group and model group, significantly enriched in secondary bile acid metabolism pathway. Wumei Pill could significantly reduce the levels of TBA, CA,and DCA in serum and feces (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). qRT PCR results further confirmed that Wumei Pill could inhibit bacteria involved in DCA synthesis such as C. scindens and C. hylmonae (P < 0.05), and lead to a decrease in BaiF gene expression level (P < 0.001). Conclusion Wumei Pill could alleviate colitis and delay the progression of inflammatory cancer by modulating the bile acid homeostasis mediated by gut microbiota, reducing the abundance and dehydroxylation function of bacteria such as C. scindens, and decreasing the production of DCA.

Objective To identify the blood-absorbed constituents of ethanol extract of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (SYQ) and investigate its anti-breast cancer activity and underlying mechanisms. Methods Blood-absorbed components of SYQ were identified using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry. The effects of SYQ drug containing serum on proliferation and migration of 4T1 cells were evaluated by MTT, colony formation and wound-healing assays. A 4T1 tumor-bearing mouse model was established, control group, model group, cyclophosphamide (20 mg/kg) group, SYQ low-, medium-, and high-dose (5, 10, 20 g/kg) groups were set up. After drug intervention, ELISA was used to detect the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe pathological changes in tumor tissue. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect CD68 and Ki67 expressions in tumor tissue. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of TNF-α/protein kinase B (Akt)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling axis and apoptosis related proteins in tumor tissues. Results A total of 19 blood components were identified by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, mainly including flavonoids (rutin, tangeretin, narcissoside), phenylpropanoids, and other glycoside compounds (forsythoside E, darendoside B). The in vitro experimental results showed that SYQ drug containing serum significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and colony formation of 4T1 cells (P < 0.01, 0.001). The in vivo experimental results showed that SYQ significantly inhibited tumor volume growth in tumor bearing mice (P < 0.001), with a tumor inhibition rate of 25.95% in high-dose group. SYQ reduced the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in serum (P < 0.05, 0.001), induced tumor tissue necrosis and significantly reduced the expressions of CD68 and Ki67 (P < 0.001), while downregulated the expression levels of TNF-α, p-Akt/Akt, p-STAT3/STAT3 and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) in tumor tissue (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). Conclusion SYQ could exerts anti-breast cancer effects by reducing the levels of inflammatory factors, inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and inducing tumor tissue necrosis. The mechanism may be related to the inhibition of TNF-α/Akt/STAT3 signaling axis.

Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy, pharmacoeconomic value, and potential for reducing antibiotic use of Liushen Capsules in the treatment of acute tonsillitis. Methods A multicenter, prospective cohort study was conducted, enrolling 875 patients with acute tonsillitis (660 in the exposed group, 215 in the non-exposed group). Comparisons were made between the two groups regarding sore throat Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, disease recovery rate, efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome differentiation, as well as antibiotic and antipyretic-analgesic usage rates. Pharmacoeconomic evaluation and multivariate logistic regression analysis were also performed. Results After seven days of treatment, the exposed group showed significantly better outcomes than the non-exposed group in terms of reduction in sore throat VAS score, improvement in TCM syndrome recovery rate, and reduction in antibiotic use rate (P<0.05).. Pharmacoeconomic cost-minimizationt analysis indicated that the exposed group was more cost-effective than the non-exposed group. Conclusion Liushen Capsules can effectively alleviate symptoms, improve clinical efficacy, significantly reduce antibiotic use, and demonstrate favorable pharmacoeconomic value in the treatment of acute tonsillitis.

Objective To explore the syndrome differentiation and medication, and formulation rules of renowned traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using data mining technology, and validate the efficacy of the identified core formula using an animal model. Methods A total of 200 medical cases of T2DM treated by famous TCM practitioners were collected from databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wangfang, VIP. A database was established using the TCM Inheritance Computing Platform (V3.5). The silhouette coefficient was introduced to evaluate K-means clustering performance, and hierarchical clustering was used for cross-validation to screen for core formulas. For the experimental validation, 40 male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 each): control, model, core formula, and metformin. Except for the control group, T2DM models with “qi-yin deficiency” syndrome were induced by a 4-week high-fat and high-sugar diet combined with daily oral administration of Qingpi Fuzi decoction (15.75 g/kg), followed by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 30 mg/kg). After successful modeling, the core formula group received the core formula (10.5 g/kg), and the Metformin group received metformin (200 mg/kg) via gavage daily; Control and Model groups received equal volumes of saline, each group was given the drug once a day for four weeks of intervention. Body weight (BW) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were monitored during the administration period. Serum levels of insulin (INS), glycated hemoglobin (IFCC-HbA1c), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by ELISA. The proportion of insulin-positive areas was assessed via immunohistochemical staining. Oil red O staining was used to observe lipid deposition in the liver. PAS staining was used to evaluate the pathological changes of renal tissue. Protein expressions of the phosphatidylinositol-3-hydroxykinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathways in liver tissues were detected by Western blotting. Results Data mining revealed that qi-yin deficiency was the primary syndrome of T2DM. High-frequency herbs included Huangqi (Astragali Radix), Huanglian (Coptidis Rhizoma), and Fuling (Poria). The medicinal properties were predominantly cold, warm, and neutral, while flavors were mainly sweet, bitter, and pungent, targeting the spleen, lung, and liver meridians. These types of drugs such as tonifying deficiency, clearing heat, promoting diuresis, and activating blood circulation were most prevalent. Association rule analysis identified Astragali Radix-Gengen (Puerariae Lobatae Radix) and Astragali Radix-Coptidis Rhizoma as core herb pairs. Clustering identified a core formula consisting of Astragali Radix, Shanyao (Dioscoreae Rhizoma), Puerariae Lobatae Radix, Shanzhuyu (Corni Fructus), and Poria. In vivo experiments showed that the core formula group had significantly lower FBG, INS, and IFCC-HbA1c levels compared to the Model group (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001), with a gradual recovery in BW. Furthermore, IL-1β and IL-6 were significantly decreased (P < 0.01, 0.001), SOD was increased (P < 0.01), and MDA was decreased (P < 0.05). Pathologically, the core formula group showed a significantly higher ratio of insulin-positive area (P < 0.05), reduced hepatic lipid deposition (P < 0.01), and lower renal pathological injury scores (P < 0.05). Western blotting analysis indicated that core formula significantly up-regulated the expression of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt, Nrf2, and HO-1 (P < 0.05, 0.01), while down-regulating p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 (P < 0.05). Conclusion The core formula exhibits a definite hypoglycemic effect. Its mechanism of action is associated with activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to enhance insulin sensitivity, inhibiting NF-κB-mediated pro-inflammatory responses, and up-regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to ameliorate oxidative stress. This formula effectively maintains the number and structure of pancreatic islet cells and protects liver and kidney tissues from diabetic pathological damage, providing a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of T2DM with TCM.

Objective To improve the YOLOv8 model and provide a high-accuracy and high-efficiency automated detection solution for Chinese herbal slices in practical scenarios such as production, dispensing, and teaching. Methods Taking YOLOv8 as the baseline model, a lightweight residual depthwise-attention Bottleneck (RDA-Bottleneck) is proposed to replace the Bottleneck blocks in C2f, reduce redundant computations and enhance the expression of channel features. To strengthen the discriminative capability of the detector during multi-scale feature learning, a frequency-aware spatial attention (FASA) module is introduced to replace the Conv blocks in the Backbone and Neck of YOLOv8. To evaluate the performance of the improved model, a dedicated dataset containing 10 categories of Chinese herbal slices [e.g., Banlangen (Isatidis Radix) and Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma)] is constructed, comprising 8 281 images. Results Compared with YOLOv8, the proposed model reduces parameters by 39.5% and floating point operations (FLOPs) by 34.1%, while improving single-threshold average accuracy mAP50 by 0.2% and multi-threshold average accuracy mAP50-95 by 0.2%. Conclusion The improved model achieves higher detection accuracy and inference efficiency for Chinese herbal slice detection under complex backgrounds and diverse appearances, providing an effective method for automatic detection of Chinese herbal slices.

Objective To reveal the dynamic evolution of the global innovation cooperation network in the field of pentacyclic triterpenoids, and analyze the collaborative evolution mechanism of network structure, national innovation strategies and individual behaviors at different stages of the technology lifecycle. Methods Based on global patent data from 1945 to 2025, social network analysis method is used to construct and analyze the innovation cooperation network in this field. According to the theory of technology lifecycle, four development stages are divided for dynamic comparison. Results The cooperative network structure presents a phased evolution, from a closed “core small world” in its infancy to a long-term expansion, ultimately converging into a “strategic focused” tight structure; The national innovation strategy is divided into three types of paths: “sustained openness”“first rising and then falling”“low-level stability”. The intensity of international cooperation decreases in an “inverted U-shape” as technology matures; There is a significant “structural fragmentation” among micro entities, with the industry forming a high-density collaborative closed loop, while key academic institutions are often in a “bilateral isolation” state at the edge of the network, leading to an ecological imbalance of “industry academia decoupling”. Conclusion This study systematically reveals the dynamic evolution mechanism of innovation cooperation networks in the field of pentacyclic triterpenoids from three levels: network structure, national strategy, and subject behavior. It deepens the theoretical understanding of cooperation and competition relationships in the technology lifecycle and provides empirical evidence and policy implications for building a more resilient innovation ecosystem.

Objective Based on transcriptome data from roots of Panax notoginseng under arsenic (As) stress, the tonoplast intrinsic protein gene PnTIP1;3 was cloned. Its functional characteristics in As transport were investigated through bioinformatic analysis and heterologous expression in yeast. Methods Bioinformatic tools were used to analyze the sequence features and promoter cis-acting elements of PnTIP1;3. A yeast heterologous expression system was constructed, and the role of PnTIP1;3 in cellular As transport was systematically evaluated through phenotypic assays, intracellular As content and subcellular distribution measurement by ICP-MS, and analysis of relevant antioxidant indicators. Results The tonoplast intrinsic protein gene PnTIP1;3 was cloned, with an open reading frame of 750 bp encoding 250 amino acids. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that it belongs to the TIP1 subfamily. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of multiple cis-acting elements related to hormones, growth and development, and stress responses. As tolerance assays showed that the half-maximal effective concentration (EC₅₀) of yeast transformants heterologously expressing PnTIP1;3 (TPnTIP1;3) was 5.36 mmol/L, higher than that of the empty vector control (5.03 mmol/L). As treatment inhibited the growth of both strains, but the empty vector control was more severely affected. ICP-MS analysis indicated that total As accumulation was significantly higher in TPnTIP1;3 than in the control, and the subcellular distribution of As followed the pattern: cell wall > vacuole > cytoplasm. Under As stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were significantly decreased (P < 0.001) in TPnTIP1;3, while the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as the contents of glutathione (GSH) and metallothionein (MT), were significantly increased (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis further demonstrated significant positive relationships between these antioxidant indicators and both total As content and cell wall As concentration. Conclusion The P. notoginseng tonoplast intrinsic protein gene PnTIP1;3, a member of the TIP1 subfamily, enhances yeast tolerance to As stress by promoting As accumulation and vacuolar sequestration, and through activation of the host antioxidant system.

Objective To identify members of the WRKY transcription factor family in Codonopsis pilosula at the genome-wide level and analyze their characteristics, and explore their potential roles in response to salt stress, thereby laying a foundation for functional studies of C. pilosula WRKY transcription factors. Methods Potential gene family members were screened across the entire genome based on conserved protein domains using the Hidden Markov model (HMM). Protein sequence alignment, conserved domain analysis, phylogenetic tree construction, gene synteny analysis, and cis-acting element analysis in the promoter region were performed using software and online tools including MAFFT, IQ-TREE, MEME, Plant CARE and TBtools. Expression patterns of WRKY genes were analyzed based on transcriptome data from different tissues (roots, stems, leaves, and flowers) and qRT-PCR was used to determine their relative expression levels. In addition, the transcriptome data of C. pilosula treated with 0, 60, and 120 mmol/L NaCl were analyzed to examine the expression changes of WRKY genes under salt stress. Results A total of 50 WRKY transcription factor members were identified in C. pilosula. Motif analysis showed that all members contained the typical WRKY domain with the conserved sequence WRKYGQK. Phylogenetic analysis with WRKY transcription factors from Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa classified the 50 C. pilosula WRKY transcription factors into three groups, with group II further divided into five subgroups. The amino acid lengths of the identified WRKY proteins ranged from 103 to 986 residues, with isoelectric points (pI) of 4.87−9.99 and molecular weights (MW) of 12 435.14−107 946.28. Gene expression analysis revealed significant differences in the expression levels of CpWRKY26, CpWRKY48, CpWRKY2, and CpWRKY49 among roots, stems, leaves, and flowers of C. pilosula. The results of salt stress treatment indicated that most CpWRKY genes showed differential expression trends under different concentrations of NaCl, and some members cluster phylogenetically with previously reported salt-tolerant WRKY genes, suggesting that they may be involved in the regulation of C. pilosula salt stress responses. Conclusion This study represents the first systematic identification and bioinformatics analysis of the WRKY gene family in C. pilosula at the genome-wide level. By combining tissue expression and salt stress response analyses, the study reveales that the WRKY genes in C. pilosula may be involved in physiological processes such as growth and development, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and stress responses. This lays a theoretical foundation for further research on the functions of WRKY genes and their roles in regulating medicinal components, and provides gene resources and scientific evidence for molecular-assisted breeding of C. pilosula.

Objective To clone the CtFD1 and CtFD2 genes from the genome of Carthamus tinctorius and perform bioinformatics, expression specificity, and subcellular localization analyses. Methods The CtFD1 and CtFD2 genes were screened and cloned based on the C. tinctorius genome. Bioinformatics online tools were used to analyze physicochemical properties, conserved domains, and other features. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was employed to examine tissue-specific expression patterns. Subcellular localization was observed using a tobacco transient expression system. Soluble expression of the proteins was achieved by optimizing inducer concentration and temperature. Results The coding sequences (CDS) of CtFD1 and CtFD2 were 726 bp and 540 bp in length, encoding 241 and 179 amino acids, respectively. Both proteins contained a typical bZIP transcription factor binding domain, which were hydrophilic, and localized to the nucleus. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close evolutionary relationship with Artemisia annua. Tissue expression analysis showed that CtFD1 and CtFD2 were most highly expressed in shoot apical meristem (SAM). Prokaryotic expression analysis revealed that both proteins were abundantly expressed in the supernatant at 16  ℃ with an IPTG concentration of 0.2 mmol/L. Conclusion The CtFD1 and CtFD2 genes belong to the bZIP family and exhibit the highest expression levels in the SAM of C. tinctorius, suggesting that they may play important roles in regulating flowering. This study provides a scientific basis for further functional characterization of these genes and elucidation of the flowering mechanism in C. tinctorius.

Objective To establish a detection method that combines the appearance characteristics (color, odor, taste) and internal chemical components of Baihe (Lilii Bulbus) to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the overall quality of lily medicinal materials. Methods Using intelligent sensory technology to detect the color, odor, and taste of 15 batches Lilii Bulbus from the perspectives of vision, smell, and taste. At the same time, HPLC fingerprint spectra and multi-index content determinations were established to compare the content differences of specific components (regaloside C, regaloside A, 2-acetate regaloside A and regaloside E) among medicinal materials from the perspective of chemical composition. Multivariate statistical analysis methods such as hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), principal component analysis (PCA), and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were used to analyze the color, odor, taste, and fingerprint spectra of Lilii Bulbus from different origins, and screen for differential components. Pearson correlation analysis was used to reveal the correlation between appearance color, odor, taste, and exclusive ingredients. Results The results of the colorimeter showed that the colors of the 15 batches of Lilii Bulbus medicinal materials were all bright white and lighter, and Zhejiang and Hunan were whiter than those of Jiangsu. The electronic nose analysis results indicated that sensors W3S, W5C, W6S, and W1S, corresponding to 15 batches of Lilii Bulbus medicinal materials contained relatively high levels of alkanes and aromatic compounds. However, Zhejiang Lilii Bulbus also exhibited elevated hydrides. Electronic tongue results revealed that all taste indicators showed obvious responses except sourness. Intelligent sensory analysis demonstrated that Lilii Bulbus from different regions exhibited significant differences in color, odor and taste. A total of 15 common peaks were identified in the fingerprint spectra. Content determination results indicated obvious quality differences among Lilii Bulbus samples from different origins. Among them, Peak 13, peak 6 (regaloside A) and peak 11 (regaloside E) were the main marker components causing compositional differences of Lilii Bulbus from different producing areas. The correlation analysis results indicated that yellow blue chromaticity(b^*), total color value(E^*ab), W1S, W6S, sweetness, astringency, aftertaste-A in Lilii Bulbus were correlated with regaloside C, regaloside A, 2-acetate regaloside A and regaloside E. Conclusion The method of integrating intelligent sensory technology with chemical composition research for comprehensive quality evaluation of Lilii Bulbus medicinal materials is feasible. It can be used to evaluate the comprehensive quality of Lilii Bulbus from different origins, providing reference for the quality control and application of Lilii Bulbus.

Objective To establish fingerprint spectra for Bailangen (Isatidis Radix) slices and methods for determining representative component content. Developing a quality prediction system through mathematical modeling to investigate the patterns of quality changes in Isatidis Radix during different fresh processing methods. Method Collecting fresh Isatidis Radix and preparing 15 batches of Isatidis Radix slices by controlling drying methods, drying temperature, drying time, and water treatment duration. HPLC was used to establish the fingerprint and calibrate the total peaks. Combining hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), principal component analysis (PCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA) to evaluate the quality of 15 batches of Isatidis Radix, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-entropy weighting method was used to determine the weights of each indicator, and a comprehensive score was calculated. Results HPLC fingerprints were established for 15 batches of Isatidis Radix, with a similarity of 0.891 to 0.997 between each group. Eleven common peaks were calibrated, and four components were identified: uridine, guanosine, (R,S)-goitrin, and adenosine. HCA analysis divided the samples into two clusters based on differences in the drying process; PCA extracted three principal components, with a cumulative variance contribution rate of 83.973%; OPLS-DA analysis showed that (R,S)-goitrin and guanosine may be important markers for distinguishing differences in the quality of Chinese herbal medicine slices; the comprehensive score of the entropy weight method showed that the 60 ℃ drying for 5 h process had the highest score. Conclusion Fingerprinting combined with chemical pattern recognition can distinguish Isatidis Radix slices prepared using different fresh processing methods, screen for key factors affecting the quality of Isatidis Radix slices, and provide a reference for quality control and evaluation of freshly processed fresh Isatidis Radix slices.

Metal-organic framework materials (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials formed by coordination bonds between metal ion centers and organic ligands, exhibiting superior properties such as high specific surface area, controllable pore size structure, and excellent biocompatibility. They provide an innovative technological approach to address critical challenges in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) research, including low solubility, poor stability, and suboptimal bioavailability of active components. Aligned with the historical context of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry being awarded to MOFs, this article systematically reviews the application advancements of five major MOF types—zeolitic imidazolate frameworks, university of oslos, materials of institute lavoisiers, porous coordination networks and isoreticular metal-organic frameworks—in TCM research. The discussion emphasizes the application priorities of different framework materials from the perspective of “structure-activity relationship”. Furthermore, the study delves into practical issues such as excessive focus on individual components, insufficiently established in vivo biosafety profiles, and high costs associated with large-scale production. Finally, it explores pathways for integrating the material properties of MOFs with the TCM “jun-chen-zuo-shi” (sovereign-minister-assistant-guide) compatibility theory, proposing a novel paradigm for biomimetic intelligent delivery systems to facilitate the modernization, internationalization, and clinical commercialization of TCM.

Dissolving microneedles (DMNs), as an emerging transdermal drug delivery technology, can transiently penetrate the stratum corneum through micron-scale needle arrays to achieve efficient drug delivery, featuring minimal invasiveness, painless administration, good biocompatibility, and high patient compliance. With advances in materials science and pharmaceutical engineering, increasing attention has been paid to the application of DMNs in transdermal delivery of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), providing a novel strategy to overcome the limitations of conventional topical TCM formulations, such as low permeation efficiency and unstable therapeutic effects. This review systematically summarizes the evolution of carriers for transdermal TCM delivery and the developmental basis of dissolving microneedles, with emphasis on the structural types, drug delivery mechanisms, and commonly used fabrication methods of DMNs. In addition, recent research progress on the application of DMNs in the treatment of skin diseases, inflammatory disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, alopecia, cosmetic therapy, and pain management is reviewed. Finally, the current technical challenges associated with DMNs are discussed, and their future prospects in TCM modernization and precision delivery are highlighted. This review aims to provide references for the design optimization and further research of microneedle-based transdermal delivery systems for TCM.

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is an orbital inflammatory disease closely related to thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity. The pathogenesis of TAO has not been fully elucidated yet. The conventional treatments have problems such as significant adverse reactions and high drug resistance rates. Through a systematic review of the research progress of Tripterygium wilfordii and its active components in the treatment of TAO from five aspects: theory, clinical practice, mechanism, clinical application safety, and nano-formulation, this paper explores the potential of Tripterygium wilfordii and its active components in treating TAO. The theoretical analysis shows that Tripterygium wilfordii’s functions of dispelling wind, removing dampness, relaxing muscles and tendons, and promoting blood circulation and relieving pain are in line with the pathogenesis of TAO, which involves liver depression, spleen deficiency, and blood stasis blocking the meridians. Clinical studies have confirmed that Tripterygium wilfordii alone or in combination with methimazole, prednisone, etc., can effectively improve the clinical symptoms of TAO patients. Mechanism research further reveals that the effects of Tripterygium wilfordii and its active components in treating TAO involve inhibiting inflammatory and immune responses, as well as anti-fibrotic effects, etc. In terms of clinical application safety, adverse reactions can be alleviated by adjusting dosage, formulation, processing methods, and compatibility. In terms of formulation improvement, the nano-delivery system, through targeted strategies, significantly enhances the targeted enrichment and therapeutic selectivity of active components of Tripterygium wilfordii in the lesion site, which is a key approach to achieving clinical enhancement of efficacy and reduction of toxicity. In summary, Tripterygium wilfordii and its active components show good potential in treating TAO in terms of theory, clinical practice, mechanism, and safety. Combined with modern nanotechnology and other formulation improvements, this may provide a promising new strategy for the traditional Chinese medicine prevention and treatment of TAO.

Doxorubicin is an anthracycline antitumor drug widely used in clinical practice, but its therapeutic value is significantly limited due to adverse reactions such as dose-dependent cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, and there is an urgent need to find preventive and therapeutic drugs. Recent studies have found that abnormal activation of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) is one of the important mechanisms underlying doxorubicin-induced toxicity in different target organs, whereas traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and its active components can effectively inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome and alleviate doxorubicin-induced toxicity. By systematically summarizing recent experimental research on how TCM and its active components ameliorate doxorubicin toxicity through regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome, it was found that they can alleviate doxorubicin toxicity in terms of cardiac and renal protection. These studies provide important theoretical evidence and potential therapeutic strategies for using TCM to intervene in the related adverse effects of doxorubicin.

High altitude sleep disturbance (HASD) is a common condition occurring in high-altitude regions due to low pressure and low oxygen levels. Its primary manifestations include insomnia, sleep apnea, and significantly reduced sleep quality. Severe cases may also trigger acute high-altitude illnesses such as high-altitude pulmonary edema and high-altitude cerebral edema. Following acute exposure to high altitudes, the incidence of HASD is notably high, posing a serious threat to physical health and quality of life. It has thus become a significant public health concern in plateau regions. Modern medical drug therapies for HASD demonstrate limited efficacy and are associated with side effects such as drowsiness and drug resistance. Therefore, in-depth exploration of its pathogenesis and the pursuit of safer, more effective treatment methods are of significant importance. Tibetan medicine, as a traditional medical system, emphasizes diagnosis and treatment based on the three factors theory (rlung, mkhris-pa, bad-kan). It offers holistic regulatory advantages through multi-dimensional, multi-component, and multi-pathway approaches. Safe and reliable, it regulates bodily functions through multi-target synergistic effects, presenting a potential key pathway for addressing HASD. HASD primarily affects sleep regulation centers across various brain regions. Tibetan medicine's holistic perspective views the human body as deeply interconnected with the natural environment. External changes like hypoxia or atmospheric pressure fluctuations disrupt the body’s “rlung” equilibrium, leading to neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain. This, in turn, triggers emotional disturbances and sleep disorders. This paper explores the application of Tibetan medicine tailored to local conditions for treating HASD based on existing research, summarizing advances in related mechanism studies. It aims to provide more substantial reference for innovative applications of Tibetan medicinal formulas and novel drug development targeting HASD.

At present, lung cancer is mainly treated by surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy, among which targeted therapy is expected to be the most effective method. With the increasing understanding of molecular changes and genomic biomarkers that promote the development of lung cancer, it has been found that the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway is an important part of the development of lung cancer. This pathway is an important signaling pathway that is widely present in cells. Activation can lead to a variety of characteristics of cancer, including acquired growth signal autonomy, apoptosis inhibition, continuous angiogenesis, increased tissue invasion and metastasis, and insensitivity to anti-growth signals, thereby regulating the process of cancer. Natural terpenoids can exert anti-lung cancer activity by inhibiting PI3K/Akt pathway. However, the research on such compounds mostly stays at the level of in vitro and in vivo research, and there is a lack of systematic review and summary of these data. Based on these current situations, this review summarizes the current understanding of natural terpenoids in regulating lung cancer progression through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, aiming to explore new targeted drugs and provide relevant theoretical basis for clinical treatment of lung cancer.

As a traditional Chinese medicine herb, Kushen (Sophorae Flavescentis Radix) possesses the functions of clearing heat and drying dampness, killing worms, and promoting urination, and has been widely used in clinical practice. With the rapid advancement of modern analytical technologies and increasing industrial demand, the development and utilization of Sophorae Flavescentis Radix have been continuously expanded across multiple sectors, including Chinese patent medicines, chemical drugs, veterinary medicines, pesticides, and cosmetics, resulting in the formation of a relatively complete industrial chain.This review systematically summarizes the resource distribution and trade status of Sophorae Flavescentis Radix, as well as the impact of processing and preparation techniques on its quality and pharmacological efficacy. Particular emphasis is placed on its current applications and dosage-form characteristics in Chinese patent medicines, chemical drugs, veterinary medicines, green pesticides, and cosmetic products. In addition, based on national drug and veterinary drug registration data, pesticide registration information, and patent literature, the product structure and technological innovation trends related to Sophorae Flavescentis Radix are comprehensively analyzed. Finally, future research and industrial development directions of Sophorae Flavescentis Radix are discussed from the perspectives of resource security literature, chemical constituent and pharmacological basis studies, exploration of classical and empirical compound prescriptions, multi-sectoral collaborative applications, enhancement of safety evaluation and quality standards, and the establishment of international standards, with the aim of providing a scientific reference for the inheritance, innovation, and high-quality development of the Sophorae Flavescentis Radix industry.

Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) are immune cells with strong functional plasticity in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Their infiltration, activation, polarization balance, and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) profoundly affect tumor occurrence, development, and immune responses. Polarization imbalance of TANs and excessive formation of NETs are key mechanisms underlying tumor immune evasion. The core pathogenesis of “deficiency-stasis-toxin” in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is closely related to the abnormal function of TANs: deficiency of healthy qi is the fundamental prerequisite for the abnormal function of TANs; intertwining of phlegm and stasis provides a pathological basis for the pro-tumor microenvironment of TANs; and internal accumulation of heat-toxin drives abnormal activation of TANs and amplification of inflammation. With the advantages of multi-target and multi-pathway effects, TCM regulates signaling pathways such as C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1)/C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) through therapeutic methods including reinforcing healthy qi and eliminating pathogens; resolving phlegm and removing stasis; clearing heat and resolving toxin. These methods can inhibit the abnormal recruitment and activation of TANs, regulate the N1/N2 polarization balance, and reduce NETs production, thereby improving the immunosuppressive state of TME and blocking tumor progression. From the perspective of integrated TCM and Western medical theories, this article systematically explains the tumor regulatory mechanism of TANs and its intrinsic correlation with the core pathogenesis of “deficiency-stasis-toxin” in TCM. It also analyzes the functional mechanism of TCM in regulating TANs based on existing research, which not only lays a theoretical foundation for revealing the scientific connotation of TCM in anti-tumor therapy but also provides core theoretical support for constructing a new integrated TCM and Western medicine strategy for TANs-targeted antitumor therapy.

Enzymatically modified isoquercitrin (EMIQ) is a highly water-soluble flavonoid derivative produced through enzymatic glycosylation of isoquercitrin. Compared with quercetin and rutin, EMIQ exhibits markedly improved bioavailability. A growing body of research has demonstrated that EMIQ possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, cardiovascular-protective, and muscle-enhancing effects. In addition, EMIQ can precisely regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, primarily through activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Both animal experiments and clinical studies have confirmed its safety and reliability, and EMIQ has been approved for use as a food additive in Japan and the United States. This article provides a comprehensive review of the structural features, physicochemical properties, preparation methods, pharmacological activities, and safety evaluations of EMIQ, with the aim of offering a solid theoretical foundation and practical guidance for future research and industrial development of this compound.