Respiratory viral infections are highly prevalent infectious diseases worldwide, characterized by complex pathogens and rapid mutations, posing limitations to existing prevention and treatment strategies. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) demonstrates unique advantages in holistic regulation and multi-target intervention for these infections. However, the complex pharmacodynamic basis and systemic mechanisms of TCM have presented challenges in achieving comprehensive evaluation and systematic mechanism elucidation. Inspired by systems philosophy and systems biology, this paper proposes an integrative research pathway centered on metabolomics as a phenotypic hub. At the observational level, it incorporates conventional metabolomics, stable isotope tracing, spatial metabolomics, and single-cell/subcellular metabolic analyses. At the association level, it combines multi-omics data such as transcriptomics, proteomics, and microbiome data. At the computational level, artificial intelligence is utilized for feature extraction and network modeling. This pathway aims to advance systematic research in biomarker discovery, syndrome substance basis elucidation, and the synergistic mechanisms of complex formulas in the prevention and treatment of respiratory viral infections with TCM. By promoting a new paradigm of systems biology research driven by metabolomics, it is expected to enhance the interpretation of TCM-based preventive and therapeutic mechanisms, thereby significantly promoting the modernization and internationalization of TCM.

Objective To investigate the mechanism by which Reduning Injection (热毒宁注射液, RDN) against secondary Staphylococcus aureus infection following H1N1 influenza A virus infection by inhibiting alveolar macrophages (AMs) depletion. Methods Lethal and sub lethal infection model of H1N1 secondary S. aureus were established and drugs were given for intervention, mortality, body weight change rate and lung index of mice were determined. Lung viral load was detected by qRT-PCR and lung bacterial load was detected using plate colony counting. The expressions of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand-1 (CXCL-1), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in lung tissue were analyzed by qRT-PCR and ELISA, levels of myeloperoxidase-DNA (MPO-DNA) and neutrophil elastase-DNA (NE-DNA) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured by ELISA. Flow cytometry was used to assess the proportions of AMs, neutrophils and monocytes in lung single-cell suspensions and the proportion of T helper 1(Th1)/T helper 2 (Th2) cells in peripheral blood. Results Compared with the secondary infection group, high-dose of RDN reduced mortality and inhibited body weight loss and lung index (P < 0.01, 0.001). Both high-and low-dose of RDN significantly reduced lung virus and bacteria levels (P < 0.05, 0.001). High-dose of RDN were superior to cefuroxime in inhibiting weight loss, reducing the lung index and decreasing lung virus level (P < 0.05, 0.01). RDN high-and low-dose groups significantly reduced the levels of IFN-γ and CXCL-1 in lung tissue and significantly increased the proportion of AMs (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). RDN high-dose group significantly reduced MCP-1 level (P < 0.05, 0.01); The proportion of AMs in RDN high-dose group was higher than that of oseltamivir phosphate group and cefaclor group (P < 0.05, 0.001), while the levels of CXCL-1 and MCP-1 were lower than those of cefaclor group (P < 0.05, 0.01). The infiltration of neutrophils and monocytes in RDN high-and low-dose groups was significantly reduced (P < 0.001), and RDN high-dose group was superior to oseltamivir phosphate group and cefaclor group (P < 0.05, 0.001). The level of TNF-α was significantly decreased in RDN high-dose group (P < 0.01), while the levels of MPO-DNA and NE-DNA were significantly decreased in RDN high-and low-dose groups (P < 0.05, 0.001); The levels of TNF-α and NE-DNA in RDN high-dose group were lower than those in cefaclor group (P < 0.01). The Th1/Th2 ratio was significantly decreased in RDN high-and low-dose groups (P < 0.01, 0.001), and RDN high-dose group was lower than cefaclor group (P < 0.05). Conclusion RDN shows significant activity against secondary S. aureus infection following H1N1 infection. RDN alleviates lung inflammatory damage by correcting excessive Th1-type immune polarization, reducing IFN-γ expression, restoring the AMs ratio and reducing effector cell infiltration.

Objective To study the inhibitory effect and its potential molecular mechanism of coptisine hydrochloride on influenza A virus (IAV). Methods CCK-8 method was used to detect the effect of coptisine hydrochloride on viability of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) and human embryonic kidney 293T cells (293T). By using an in vitro viral infection model, the regulatory effect of coptisine hydrochloride on IAV replication and viral nucleoprotein (NP) expression was detected, and its half effective concentration (EC₅₀) and half cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀) were calculated. A mouse model infected with H1N1-UI182 was constructed, coptisine hydrochloride was given for intervention, changes in survival rate, body weight, lung index, lung tissue virus titer and viral load were detected. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the pathological damage of lung tissue. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of NP protein in lung tissue. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to detect the regulatory effect of coptisine hydrochloride on transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway, as well as its effect on the expressions of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Results At the cellular level, compared with model group, coptisine hydrochloride significantly inhibited IAV replication and reduced NP protein expression level (P < 0.05, 0.001). Coptisine hydrochloride had an EC₅₀ of 15.93 μg/mL and a CC₅₀ of 83.42 μg/mL in MDCK cells, and an EC₅₀ of 18.44 μg/mL and a CC₅₀ of 69.90 μg/mL in 293T cells. In the H1N1-UI182 infected mouse model, compared with model group, coptisine hydrochloride significantly improved the decline in body weight of mice, increased survival rate, and significantly reduced lung index, lung tissue virus titer and viral load (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). The histopathological results showed that coptisine hydrochloride significantly reduced the inflammatory infiltration and alveolar structural damage caused by viral infection in lungs. The immunohistochemical results showed that coptisine hydrochloride significantly reduced the expression of NP protein in lung tissue. Western blotting and qRT-PCR results showed that compared with model group, coptisine hydrochloride could regulate TRPV4/NF-κB signaling pathway, significantly inhibit TRPV4 overactivation (P < 0.001), block NF-κB nuclear translocation (P < 0.001), and subsequently downregulate the expressions of pro-inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β (P < 0.05, 0.01, 0.001). Conclusion Coptisine hydrochloride could directly inhibit IAV replication and regulate TRPV4/NF-κB signaling pathway to improve virus induced inflammatory response, exerting anti-IAV effects.

Objective To explore the efficacy and mechanism of Daqinglong Decoction (大青龙汤) in inhibiting viral pneumonia in mice caused by influenza A virus (H1N1/PR8). Methods The main chemical components in Daqinglong Decoction were detected by UPLC-QE-HF-MS/MS. Mice were randomly divided into control group, model group, oseltamivir (27.5 mg/kg) group, Daqinglong Decoction high-, medium-, and low-dose (23.10, 11.55, 5.78 g/kg) groups. The model of pneumonia in mice caused by influenza A virus (H1N1/PR8) infection was established, after continuously administration for 4 d, the therapeutic effect of Daqinglong Decoction on viral pneumonia was evaluated by detecting the viral load of lungs, the levels of inflammatory factors in lung tissues, the percentage of peripheral blood lymphocytes, and the pathological structure and imaging of lungs. The mechanism was studied through proteomics and Western blotting. Results A total of 77 major chemical constituents in Daqinglong Decoction were identified. Compared with model group, Daqinglong Decoction significantly reduced the viral load of lung tissues (P < 0.01), decreased the level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in lung tissues (P < 0.05, 0.01), increased the percentage of CD4⁺ T cells in the peripheral blood (P < 0.05), markedly improved lung lesions, and significantly up-regulated the expression of nuclear factor of activated T-cells 5 (NFAT5) and down-regulated the expression of tyrosine-protein kinase ZAP-70 (ZAP70) in lung tissues of infected mice (P < 0.05). Conclusion Daqinglong Decoction inhibited viral proliferation in lung tissues, decreased TNF-α expression, increased CD4⁺ T lymphocyte level and ameliorated lung lesions, and its mechanism of treating viral pneumonia was related to the modulation of NFAT5 and ZAP70 mediated T cell immunity.

Objective To characterize the material basis of Mahuang Xixin Fuzi Decoction (麻黄细辛附子汤, MXF) and Mahuang Gancao Fuzi Decoction (麻黄甘草附子汤, MGF), and explore the differences in intervention effects and mechanisms of MXF and MGF on mouse models of kidney-yang deficiency and external infection syndrome, and provide basic research basis for clinical precision medication. Methods The chemical composition of MXF and MGF was analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-QQQ/MS). A total of 60 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control group (12 mice) and kidney-yang deficiency syndrome model group (48 mice). A mouse model of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome was established by ip estradiol benzoate, and then intranasal infection with H1N1 influenza virus was performed to establish a mouse model of kidney-yang deficiency and external infection syndrome. The successfully modeled mice were randomly divided into model group, MXF (1.8 g/kg) group, MGF (1.8 g/kg) group and oseltamivir (22.53 mg/kg) group, with 12 mice in each group. After continuous administration for 7 d, changes in body weight, anal temperature, survival rate, organ indexes, lung tissue pathology, levels of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in tracheal and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, lung viral load, and serum inflammatory cytokine levels of mice in each group were detected. Results A total of 15 components including ephedrine, aconitine, sesamin ester and asarinin were detected in MXF, and 18 components including ephedrine, aconitine and liquiritin were detected in MGF. The content of ephedra alkaloids in MXF was higher than that in MGF. Compared with model group, all treatment groups were able to restore the body weight and anal temperature of mice, and the recovery effect was oseltamivir > MXF > MGF; There were no mouse deaths in oseltamivir and MXF groups, while one mouse died in MGF group; The lung index of oseltamivir group and MXF group were significantly decreased (P < 0.05, 0.01); The lung tissue lesions of mice in each treatment group were reduced, with the degree of reduction being oseltamivir > MXF > MGF; MXF had a higher clearance rate of lung viruses in mice; MGF significantly increased the level of SIgA in lung lavage fluid (P < 0.05); Oseltamivir, MXF and MGF could effectively reduce the total value of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, the ratio of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, and the proportion of pro-inflammatory factors, alleviate the body’s inflammatory response, and MGF had higher anti-inflammatory and immune enhancing effects than MXF; According to the box plot analysis of comprehensive therapeutic effects, MXF was superior to MGF. Conclusion Different adjuncts [Xixin (Asari Radix et Rhizoma/Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma)] in MXF and MGF affect the contents of common components (ephedra alkaloids, aconitum alkaloids) in the formula; Both MXF and MGF could effectively treat kidney-yang deficiency and external infection syndrome and reduce the damage caused to the body by viral infection. Comparing the two, MXF has better comprehensive pharmacological effects, but MGF has better effects on inflammatory factors and immune regulation.

Objective To investigate the effect and mechanism of Ampelopsis grossedentata extract in treating post-infection cough (PIC) through network pharmacology combined with in vivo experiments. Methods Active components from A. grossedentata were screened through HERB database, PIC related targets were obtained from GeneCards platform, intersecting targets were obtained, “drug-active ingredient-target” network and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were constructed. Gene ontology (GO) function and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed, and molecular docking validation was performed between core components and core targets. PIC guinea pig model was constructed, control group, model group, A. grossedentata extract low-, medium-, high-dose (64, 128, 256 mg/kg) groups and Suhuang Zhike Capsule (苏黄止咳胶囊, 314 mg/kg) group were set up. After administration, cough sensitivity, inflammatory cell numbers and levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4), substance P (SP), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were detected. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe pathological changes in tracheal, bronchial and lung tissues. Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of core target proteins in lung tissue. Results The core active ingredients of A. grossedentata screened by network pharmacology included physcion, emodin, quercetin, etc. The core targets included B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), sarcoma proto oncogene kinase (SRC), etc. The enrichment involved EGFR, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt) and other signaling pathways. Molecular docking showed that the binding energy between core components and core targets was low, with good affinity. The animal experiment results showed that compared with model group, A. grossedentata extract could significantly prolong the cough latency and reduce the number of coughs in guinea pigs (P < 0.05, 0.01), reduce the number of inflammatory cells and levels of SP, IL-4, TNF-α, INF-γ in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (P < 0.05, 0.01), improve the pathological damage of trachea, bronchus and lung tissue, up-regulate the expression of Bcl-2 protein in lung tissue (P < 0.01), down-regulate the expressions of EGFR and p-STAT3 protein (P < 0.01). Conclusion A. grossedentata extract has significant therapeutic effects on PIC, and its mechanism may be through the action of core components such as physcion, emodin and quercetin on targets such as Bcl-2, EGFR, STAT3, regulating related signaling pathways, reducing airway mucosal damage and inflammatory reactions, and thus exerting therapeutic effects.

Objective To conduct a bibliometric analysis of antiviral research on chikungunya fever, to reveal the current status and research hotspots, and to provide references for infection prevention and drug development. Methods Publications related to antiviral studies on chikungunya fever were retrieved from the Web of Science core collection from database inception to August 10, 2025. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used for visual analysis of publication output, countries, journals, institutions, authors, and keywords, wheras Excel 2019 was employed to summarize and calculate the frequency of drug-related keywords. Results A total of 583 publications were included, showing an overall upward trend in output between 2004 and 2025. The United States had the highest number of publications; the top three productive authors were Merits Andres, Neyts Johan, and Delang Leen, Antiviral Research was the leading journal in terms of publications, and core research forces were concentrated in comprehensive universities such as the University of Tartu and infectious disease institutes such as the Institut Pasteur. Keyword analysis indicated that “chikungunya virus” “replication” “infection” were high-frequency core terms. Research themes mainly focused on viral replication, infection, and identification, encompassing molecular docking, gene expression, and inhibitor screening, as well as animal model construction and cross-virus studies. Keyword frequency analysis of antiviral drugs showed that chemical drugs dominated the field, with small-molecule inhibitors being the most common, and chloroquine and ribavirin appearing most frequently, studies on biologics, traditional Chinese medicine, and natural products were relatively scattered. Conclusion Antiviral research on chikungunya virus remains in its early stages, with a paucity of clinically approved therapeutics and specific vaccines. Research priorities have shifted from transmission surveillance toward drug discovery and target-based investigations, with emerging technologies—including structural biology, molecular docking, and reverse genetics—facilitating candidate compound development. Future research should prioritize drug repurposing, multi-target strategies, and systematic evaluation of bioactive natural products, particularly flavonoids, diterpenoids, and traditional Chinese medicinal compounds for symptomatic intervention. Integrating interdisciplinary methodologies and fostering international collaboration are essential to enhance research efficiency, accelerate clinical translation, and provide innovative avenues for chikungunya virus prevention and control.

Chikungunya fever (CHIK) is an acute infectious disease caused by chikungunya virus and transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Its main clinical manifestations are fever, joint pain and rash, and some patients may develop into chronic arthritis. At present, there are no specific antiviral drugs. Based on the theory of “wind evil” in traditional Chinese medicine, this paper systematically summarizes the role and mechanism of wind medicine in preventing and treating this disease. CHIK belongs to the category of “damp-heat” and “epidemic disease”, and its core pathogenesis is that wind and evil are mixed with dampness, heat and toxin, which are confined to muscle surface meridians. Its characteristics of “good behavior and variable numbers” are highly consistent with the clinical manifestations of sudden high fever in acute stage and wandering joint pain in chronic stage. Wind drugs [such as Gegen (Puerariae Lobatae Radix), Fangfeng (Saposhnikoviae Radix), Qianghuo (Notopterygii Rhizoma et Radix), Fangji (Stephaniae Tetrandrae Radix), etc.] have the functions of expelling wind, eliminating dampness and dredging collaterals, and run through all stages of treatment of CHIK. Representative prescriptions such as Xuanbi Decoction and Juanbi Decoction can significantly improve clinical symptoms. Modern research shows that its active components play a therapeutic role by directly inhibiting virus replication, regulating immune inflammatory response and other multi-target mechanisms. This study provides a theoretical basis for antivirus of traditional Chinese medicine, and highlights the unique value of wind medicine in preventing and treating new infectious diseases.

Viral hepatitis is a serious global epidemic. Hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, and E can all cause liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer; each type of viral hepatitis may present with jaundice, and jaundice has long been treated with traditional Chinese medicine in clinical practice in China. Although modern antiviral drugs for hepatitis are diverse and effective, their use is limited by drug resistance, easy recurrence, and multiple adverse reactions. Traditional Chinese medicine, due to its characteristics of multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple pathways, has unique advantages in the field of antiviral hepatitis. Current research has shown that Chinese medicine formulations, single herbs, and their active components can exert antiviral hepatitis effects by intervening in viral invasion, inhibiting viral replication, and regulating the liver microenvironment. Traditional Chinese medicine has broad application prospects in the field of antiviral hepatitis and is expected to provide important references for the development of new antiviral hepatitis treatment strategies.

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are common acute infectious diseases, primarily affecting immunocompromised populations, mainly caused by viral or bacterial infections. Typical symptoms include nasal congestion and coughing, which can progress to lower respiratory tract complications such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia, significantly impacting patients’ health and quality of life. Flavonoid glycosides, bioactive compounds widely found in traditional Chinese medicine, exhibit therapeutic effects against URTI through mechanisms including anti-inflammatory action, inhibition of oxidative stress, antiviral activity and immune regulation. This review summarizes recent research progress on the therapeutic mechanisms of flavonoid glycosides for upper respiratory infections, aiming to provide reference for clarifying the mechanism and clinical application of flavonoid glycosides in the treatment of URTI.

Objective To investigate the chemical components in the Hosta plantaginea flower and evaluate their anti-inflammatory activities. Method The extraction was carried out using 95% and 70% ethanol aqueous solutions through percolation, followed by liquid-liquid extraction with petroleum ether and ethyl acetate. The chemical components were separated and purified by column chromatography methods such as D101 macroporous adsorption resin, silica gel, and ODS, as well as preparative liquid chromatography. Structural identification was conducted using high-resolution mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and circular dichroism spectrum (ECD). Moreover, the anti-inflammatory activities of all compounds were evaluated. Results Ten compounds were obtained from the aqueous layer of the H. plantaginea flower ethanol extract after extraction with ethyl acetate, including three steroids (1–3), four flavonoids (4–7), two alkaloids (8, 9), and one fatty acid (10). They were identified as (8S,9R,10S, 12S,13R,14R,16R,17S,20R,22S,25R,26R)-12,16-hydroxy-22,26-epoxy-26-methoxy-5α-cholest-4-en-3-one (or hostaspirone A, 1), (2α,3β,5α,25R)-2-hydroxyspirostan-3-yl O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-galactopyranoside (2), (25R)-3-(β-D-Glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-[β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-galactopyranosyl)-5-spirostan-2α-ol (3), rhamnocitrin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), quercetin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside (5), isorhamnetin 3-O-glucoside (6), isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside (7), thymine (8), uracil (9), and myristic acid (10), respectively. Conclusion Compound 1 is the first steroid identified in this genus to exhibit an E-ring cleavage spirostan. Compounds 4, 6–8, and 10 were isolated for the first time from the family Asparagaceae, and compound 5 is reported here for the first time from the Hosta genus. In addition, compounds 1 and 4 have some anti-inflammatory effects. This study expands the chemical profile of H. plantaginea and provides a scientific foundation for its potential clinical applications.

Objective To systematically investigate the chemical constituents and in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of the dried tuberous roots of Triplostegia glandulifera. Method Compounds were isolated and purified by silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, ODS column chromatography and semi-preparative HPLC. Their structures were identified by physicochemical properties and spectroscopic data. The cytotoxicity and inhibitory effects on nitric oxide (NO) production were evaluated by CCK-8 assay and Griess method, respectively. Results Twenty-four compounds were isolated and identified as 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl alcohol-O-[β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside] (1), sysamarin B (2), primulagenin A (3), oleanolic acid-3-O-[α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→3)-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→3)-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-arabinopyranoside] (4), oleanolic acid-3-O-α-L-arabinopyranoside (5), caffeic acid (6), ethyl caffeate (7), (2'R,3'R)-2',3'-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy caffeoyl butyrate (8), 5-O-[(E)-caffeoyl]-quinic acid (9), methyl 4,5-di-O-caffeoyl quinate (10), eugenyl-O-β-D-gucopyranoside (11), rel-(2α,3β)-7-O-methylcedrusin (12), (7S,8R)-erythro-7,9,9'-trihydroxy-3,3'-dimethoxy-8-O-4'-neolignan-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (13), (＋)-pinoresinol (14), (-)-pinoresinol (15), (＋)-syringaresinol-O-β-D-diglucopyranoside (16), ethyl protocatechuate (17), tangeretin (18), hesperidin (19), (1S,3S)-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (20), nonialkaloid B (21), strych-novoline (22), 1-(β-D-ribofuranosyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazone (23), and inosine (24). Compounds 2, 4, 5 and 19 showed significant inhibitory activities against NO production. The IC₅₀ values of compounds 4 and 5 were (23.76 ± 1.22) and (23.87 ± 0.23) μmol/L, respectively, which were comparable to that of dexamethasone. Conclusion Compound 1 is a new compound. Compounds 2-5 and 7-24 were isolated from the genus Triplostegia for the first time. Compounds 2, 4, 5 and 19 possess potent in vitro anti-inflammatory activities.

Objective To clarify the chemical constituents of the petroleum ether extract from the whole plant of Ferula bungeana. Methods The chemical constituents of petroleum ether extract from the whole plant of F. bungeana were studied using classical silica gel column chromatography and thin-layer chromatography. The spectral data of the isolated compounds were analyzed to determine their structures. Meanwhile, by examining the effect of the isolated compounds on nitric oxide (NO) release in the culture medium of RAW264.7 macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), their inhibitory effect on inflammatory responses was evaluated. Results From the petroleum ether extract of F. bungeana whole plant, eight compounds were isolated and identified as 1-isoprenyloxy-1-(3'-hydroxy-4',5'-methylenedioxy)phenyl-2-angeloyloxy-phenylpropane (1), myristicin (2), crocatone (3), diversivittatin (4), 2-epilaserine (5), 1-hydroxy-1-(3'-methoxy-4',5'-methylenedioxy)-phenylpropane (6), 1-hydroxy-1-(3',4'-methylenedioxy-2',5'-dimethoxy)-phenylpropane (7), 1-carbonyl-1-(3'-hydroxy-4',5'-methylenedioxy)-phenylpropane (8). The activity screening results showed that compounds 1, 4, and 5 exhibited good NO inhibitory activity at a concentration of 10 μmol/L, with inhibition rates of 78.5%, 85.9%, and 79.0%, respectively. Conclusions Compound 1 is a new compound, named ferubundiester; Compounds 2 and 5 were isolated from F. bungeana for the first time, and compounds 4—8 were obtained from plants of the Ferula genus for the first time. Compounds 1, 4, and 5 exhibit similar potent anti-inflammatory activity.

Objective Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-electrostatic field orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS) technology combined with pharmacological methods was developed to analyze the chemical components of Zhizi Dahuang Decoction in different proportions in ancient and modern optimized prescriptions. Subsequently, an alcoholic liver injury model was established to evaluate its hepatoprotective effects and screen potential active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine. Methods Gradient elution was performed on an ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) column with 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution and acetonitrile. The mass spectrometry data were collected in positive and negative ion mode. Chemical constituents of Zhizi Dahuang Decoction were identified by comparing with literature and database records, considering retention time, accurate molecular mass, and MS/MS fragmentation patterns. Furthermore, an alcoholic liver injury mouse model was utilized to compare the efficacy of the two formulations, and to screen for active components related to hepatoprotective effects through a spectrum-activity relationship study. Results A total of 80 common chemical components were identified in Zhizi Dahuang Decoction, including 22 organic (phenolic) acids, 18 flavonoids, 11 iridoids, eight anthraquinones, six isoflavones, etc. Pharmacological results demonstrated that the classical formula group exhibited significantly lower serum levels of alanine amino-transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), and triglyceride (TG) compared to the modern optimized group (P < 0.05). Screening potential pharmacological substances closely related to alcohol-induced liver injury, such as geniposide acid, protocatechuic acid, and cryptochlorogenic acid, through spectrum-effect relationship analysis. Conclusion This study demonstrated that the ancient formulation of Zhizi Dahuang Decoction has better hepatoprotective effects on alcoholic liver injury than the modern optimized formulation, and further characterized the potential bioactive components contributing to its anti-alcoholic liver injury efficacy.

Objective To optimize the processing technology of Cubiejiɑ (vinegar-quenched Pelodisci Carapax, vqPC) and to investigate the correlation between color and intrinsic component content during processing, thereby providing a basis for process standardization and quality evaluation. Methods Using Box-Behnken design combined with response surface methodology (BBD-RSM), sand-frying temperature, sand-frying time, and drying time after vinegar quenching were selected as independent variables, while appearance characteristics, moisture content, extract contents, and the contents of six amino acids served as response variables. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) method were integrated to calculate overall desirability (OD) for process optimization. Color values (L^*, a^*, b^*) of the processed powder were measured using a colorimeter and their correlations with component contents were analyzed. Results The optimal processing parameters were determined as follows: sand-frying temperature 211 ℃, sand-frying time 7 min, and drying time after vinegar quenching 121 min. Correlation analysis indicated that the L^* value showed a highly significant positive correlation with proline content (P < 0.01) and positive correlation with the contents of glycine and valine (P < 0.05). The b^* value exhibited a highly significant negative correlation with the contents of hydroxyproline, glycine, arginine, proline and valine (P < 0.01). The a^* value showed a highly significant negative correlation with glycine content (P < 0.01) and a significant negative correlation with arginine and valine content (P < 0.05). The E^* value showed a significant positive correlation with proline content (P < 0.05). Regression analysis further confirmed quantitative relationships between color values and the contents of multiple components. Conclusion The combination of AHP-CRITIC and BBD-RSM provides a scientific approach for optimizing the processing technology of vqPC. The significant correlations between color parameters and chemical components offer a new method for establishing its quality evaluation system.

Objective To develop an immunomagnetic separation-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (IMS-ELISA) for the determination of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) and to evaluate its applicability for near-line monitoring and process optimization of the honey-refining process in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparations. Methods Anti-5-HMF antibodies were immobilized on magnetic beads to enable selective capture and magnetic enrichment of 5-HMF. Biotinylated 5-HMF-BSA served as the competitive antigen, while horseradish peroxidase-streptavidin (HRP-SA) and 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) were used for signal generation. Immunomagnetic separation was employed to reduce matrix interference and enhance analytical sensitivity. The method was systematically validated in terms of linearity, limit of detection (LOD), specificity, precision, and accuracy. Subsequently, the established IMS-ELISA was applied to near-line analysis by monitoring 5-HMF levels at key stages of the honey-processing workflow, including variations in temperature, pressure, processing time, storage duration, and reheating conditions. Results The IMS-ELISA exhibited good linearity over the concentration range of 0.4—160 ng/mL (R² = 0.997 3), with a detection limit of 0.4 ng/mL. No significant cross-reactivity was observed with structurally related compounds such as furfural or 5-methylfurfural. The intra-assay relative standard deviation was 4.29%, and the results obtained for real samples showed no significant difference from those measured by HPLC (P > 0.05). Near-line application demonstrated that honey-processing conditions of 75—85 ℃, 20.0 kPa, and 10—15 min were associated with relatively lower 5-HMF formation, whereas storage for ≥ 48 h and reheating at ≥ 80 ℃ markedly promoted 5-HMF accumulation. Conclusion The proposed IMS-ELISA method offers high sensitivity, good specificity, and low operational cost. It is suitable for near-line monitoring of 5-HMF during honey processing and pill manufacturing in TCM production, providing methodological support for process optimization and contributing to process visualization and intelligent manufacturing of TCM products.

Objective To prepare folic acid (FA)-modified Mojiahuangqi (Astragalus membranaceus, AM) exosome-like nanoparticles loaded with calycosin (Cal) (FA-Exos@Cal) and investigate their inhibitory effect on M1 polarization of macrophages in vitro. Methods AM exosome-like nanoparticles (Exos) were isolated by differential centrifugation combined with sucrose density gradient centrifugation. FA-Exos@Cal was prepared by the thin-film dispersion-incubation method. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), dynamic light scattering, HPLC, and dialysis bag method were used to characterize the particle morphology, protein properties, particle size, ζ potential, drug-loading characteristics, and in vitro release behavior. Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry were employed to evaluate the targeting ability of FA-Exos@Cal to M1-type RAW264.7 cells. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to detect the effect of FA-Exos@Cal on macrophage proliferation. Flow cytometry was applied to investigate its influence on the expression level of M1 marker CD86. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and other methods were used to determine the expression levels of inflammatory factors including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, and nitric oxide (NO). Results FA-Exos@Cal was successfully prepared. TEM showed a typical vesicular structure. The protein concentration, particle size, ζ potential, drug loading capacity, and entrapment efficiency were (3.52 ± 0.26) mg/mL, (127.4 ± 2.6) nm, (-11.14 ± 0.30) mV, (12.14 ± 0.18)%, and (27.21±1.04)%, respectively. There was no significant difference in protein properties before and after modification, and the drug exhibited good sustained-release effect in vitro. FA modification significantly enhanced the cellular uptake efficiency of FA-Exos by M1-polarized macrophages while reducing the cytotoxicity of Cal toward macrophages. Moreover, FA-Exos@Cal could significantly reduce the CD86-positive rate of M1-type macrophages and down-regulate the expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and NO. Comparative analysis with Exos, Cal, and the physical mixture of Exos and Cal revealed that the combined use of Exos and Cal exerted a synergistic effect. Conclusion FA-Exos@Cal, an engineered targeted biomimetic nano-delivery system, was successfully prepared. It was confirmed to have excellent targeting ability to M1-type macrophages, and could effectively inhibit M1 polarization and the release of inflammatory factors, which is expected to provide a new strategy for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Objective To address the issues of reliance on exhaustive “blind” trial-and-error and the lack of theoretical guidance in the modeling process of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), this study used the solid content prediction model of Jinzhen Oral Liquid (JOL, 金振口服液) as a case study. It aimed to reveal the direction for optimizing the best model from the perspective of spectral information quality and verify its application value in model maintenance. Methods The NIRS and solid content data of 380 samples were collected. After being processed by nine preprocessing methods, prediction models for solid content were established using partial least squares (PLS) and support vector regression (SVR), respectively. An evaluation framework was innovatively constructed by introducing Shannon entropy, principal component analysis (PCA), and autoencoders to quantify spectral information quality from three dimensions: information richness, linear structure concentration, and non-linear structure capturability. Finally, by systematically analyzing the correlation between spectral information characteristics and model performance, the direction for the optimal preprocessing method was revealed. This correlation rule was then applied to model maintenance involving 294 newly added samples to screen for the optimal spectral dataset. Results It was found that for NIRS characterized by broad and overlapping peaks, both information density and information retention rate were negatively correlated with PLS model performance. Based on this correlation rule, the optimal dataset for model maintenance was successfully predicted, achieving a modeling performance (R_p² = 0.990 9) significantly superior to that of other datasets. Conclusion The correlation rules identified in this study effectively explain the impact of preprocessing on model performance. They provide a theoretical basis and guiding tools for the optimization and maintenance of spectral models, facilitating a shift from “blind trial-and-error” to “active improvement”. This offers new insights for establishing a standardized and intelligent workflow for NIRS model construction and maintenance.

Objective To develop formulation-optimized ganoderic acid A liposomes (GA-Lips) with improved stability and high encapsulation efficiency, and to evaluate their cellular uptake efficiency and in vitro antitumor activity. Methods GA-Lips were prepared using the thin-film hydration method, and formulation parameters were optimized by varying the ratios of GAA, phospholipids, and cholesterol. Particle size, ζ potential, and morphology were characterized. In vitro drug release and formulation stability were evaluated under different media, dilution, and storage conditions. Hemocompatibility was assessed by hemolysis assays. Cellular uptake efficiency was examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry. Antiproliferative effects and apoptosis induction in HepG2 cells were analyzed using CCK-8 and Annexin V-FITC/PI assays, respectively. Results The optimized GA-Lips exhibited a uniform spherical morphology with a mean particle size of (74.52 ± 1.00) nm, a PDI of 0.26 ± 0.01, and a ζ potential of (-46.75 ± 1.61) mV. The formulation showed sustained drug release, excellent stability under various test conditions, and negligible hemolytic activity. GA-Lips significantly enhanced cellular uptake efficiency in HepG2 cells compared with free GAA. Moreover, GA-Lips exhibited pronounced cytotoxic effects and markedly increased apoptosis induction. Conclusion The optimized GA-Lips demonstrated favorable stability and hemocompatibility, effectively enhancing the cellular uptake efficiency and in vitro antitumor efficacy of GAA. These results support the potential of GA-Lips as a promising nanocarrier system for ganoderic acid A and provide a foundation for further in vivo and mechanistic studies.

Objective To apply multiple techniques for the combined characterization of commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices and to explore the quality evaluation methods for calcined Magnetitum decoction slices. Methods Eleven batches of commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices were collected. Quality inspections were carried out in accordance with the 2025 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (volume I). Thermal analysis (TA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were utilized to characterize the thermal stability, phase composition, elemental composition, and infrared structure of the samples. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to determine the contents of heavy metals and harmful elements in the samples. The theoretical maximum residue limit value L and the target hazard quotient (THQ) were calculated to evaluate the health risks. Results The content determination results of 11 batches of commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices were qualified, but the appearance of 4 batches of slices had a quality issue of being too red, which did not meet the requirements of the 2025 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (volume I). TA results indicated significant differences in the thermal stability of the 11 batches of commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices. Five batches showed a slow weight loss trend; four batches presented weight loss steps in the temperature range of 420—580 ℃; two batches first showed weight gain and then weight loss steps in the 420—580 ℃ range. XRD results showed that the commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices mainly consisted of three phases: Fe₃O₄, SiO₂, and Fe₂O₃, with significant differences in the relative diffraction intensity of Fe₂O₃. XRF results demonstrated that the commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices were mainly composed of elements such as Fe, Si, Al, Mg, P, K, and Ca, and the relative contents of Fe and Si reached 90%. FTIR results showed that the commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices exhibited characteristic absorption peaks of Si-O asymmetric stretching vibration, Si-O-Si symmetric stretching vibration, and Si-O bending vibration in the three wavelength bands of 1 250—1 100, 800—600, and 600—300 cm^-1, respectively, and an absorption peak of Fe-O stretching vibration appeared in the 540—570 cm^-1 band. ICP-MS results indicated that among 11 batches of commercially available calcined Magnetitum decoction slices, three batches exhibited mercury (Hg) content exceeding the limit L with a THQ greater than 1; One batch showed lead (Pb) content exceeding the limit L with THQ > 1. Conclusion The quality of calcined Magnetitum decoction slices was evaluated based on the 2025 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and multiple techniques, with the aim of providing a reference for improving the quality control of calcined Magnetitum decoction slices.

Objective To elucidate the formulation patterns and health functions of health products containing Shanyao (Dioscoreae Rhizoma) and explore the underlying mechanisms via data mining, network pharmacology, and molecular docking technologies. Methods Health products containing Dioscoreae Rhizoma were retrieved from the State Administration for Market Regulation and Yaozhi websites. Frequency analysis and Apriori algorithm-based association rule mining were implemented in R language. The TCMSP, HERB, HIT 2.0, ETCM 2.0, and TCMID databases were used to search for the active components of Dioscoreae Rhizoma, and the PubChem and SwissTargetPrediction databases were utilized to predict the targets. Then, potential targets associated with high-frequency health functions were obtained from GeneCards, TTD, DrugBank, OMIM, and PathCards databases. Functional enrichment analysis was subsequently performed using the DAVID database. Finally, molecular docking of representative Dioscoreae Rhizoma constituents with core targets was conducted using AutoDock Vina, followed by diagnostic evaluation via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis based on GEO chip data. Results A total of 471 Dioscoreae Rhizoma-containing health products were included, dominated by capsules in formulation and targeting immune enhancement as the main health function. The formulas involved 216 types of Chinese medicinal materials, predominantly tonifying, warm in nature, sweet in taste, and attributed to the liver meridian. Gouqizi (Lycii Fructus)-Dioscoreae Rhizoma, Fuling (Poria)-Dioscoreae Rhizoma as the core medicinal ingredients. Network pharmacology analysis identified 294 active components and 892 related target genes from Dioscoreae Rhizoma, alongside 2 360 potential targets associated with the high-frequency health function of immune enhancement. Then, PPI topological analysis identified five core targets [signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), protein kinase B1 (AKT1), interleukin 6 (IL6), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)]. Enrichment analysis suggested that cancer pathway, cell apoptosis, TNF signaling pathway and chemokine signaling pathway were the key pathways for Dioscoreae Rhizoma and its compatibility to enhance immunity. Molecular docking revealed good binding affinity of core targets with characteristic components of Dioscoreae Rhizoma, notably, allantoin, dioscin, and diosgenin, with ROC analysis further confirming the diagnostic potency of EGFR. Conclusion This study identified “Dioscoreae Rhizoma-Lycii Fructus” as the core herb pair with the highest support degree in the formulation patterns of Dioscoreae Rhizoma-containing health products. The combination of Dioscoreae Rhizoma, Lycii Fructus, and Poria may take EGFR and AKT1 as core targets and exert an immune-enhancing effect by regulating the apoptosis process and inflammatory response in people with low immunity.

Objective To integrate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in gastric cancer (GC) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, systematically identify core targets associated with tumor progression, and predict therapeutic Chinese medicines via network distance, providing molecular evidence for integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine precision intervention in GC. Methods A total of 21 GC datasets (2 125 GC, 367 normal samples) were downloaded from GEO to construct an expression matrix. DEGs were screened using the limma package (|log₂(FC)| > 1, FDR < 0.05), weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to identify modules most correlated with disease phenotype, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were conducted on key genes, seven machine learning models were built with SHapley additive exPlanations (SHAP) for feature importance interpretation; network distance between Chinese medicine target modules and GC key genes was calculated based on the human PPI network to screen topologically proximal medicines, with statistics on four properties, five flavors, meridian tropism, and efficacy. Results A total of 455 DEGs were obtained. WGCNA yielded 31 modules, with the light-yellow module (r = 0.56, q < 0.01) containing 194 hub genes; intersection with DEGs produced 177 key genes. Enrichment analysis showed GO-biological processes (BP) focused on extracellular matrix organization and adhesion, GO-cell component (CC) on collagen-containing ECM and focal adhesion, GO-molecular function (MF) on integrin/growth factor binding, and KEGG on actin cytoskeleton regulation, phosphatidylinositol-3-hydroxykinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt), and interleukin-17 (IL-17) signaling. The random forest (RF) model achieved 0.991 accuracy, with SHAP consistently ranking SULF1, THY1, DNER, and SPINK7 as top contributors. Network distance screening identified Arctii Fructus, Prunellae Spica, Atractylodis Rhizoma, Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus, Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, Hypocreaceae, and Persicae Semen among the top 15 medicines, characterized by cool/cold properties, bitter flavor, liver/stomach/lung tropism, and primarily heat-clearing with deficiency-tonifying efficacy. Conclusion This study systematically elucidates GC molecular mechanisms, predicting multi-target anti-GC potential of heat-clearing, yin-nourishing, and blood-activating Chinese medicines, and provides novel strategies for GC precision diagnosis/treatment and modernization of traditional Chinese medicine.

Objective To systematically analyze the composition, structural characteristics of the UDP-glucosyltransferase (UGT) gene family in Polygonum cuspidatum, investigate its expression patterns across different root tissues, as well as its potential roles in the glycosylation of resveratrol and emodin, so as to provides a theoretical foundation for elucidating the biosynthetic mechanisms of active metabolites. Methods The UGT gene family of P. cuspidatum was identified at the genome-wide level based on transcriptome and genomic datasets. Analyses of physicochemical properties, chromosomal localization, gene structure, conserved motifs and cis-regulatory elements were then performed. The evolutionary characteristics were analyzed through phylogenetic reconstruction, gene duplication analysis and protein interaction network prediction. Correlation analysis integrating transcriptomic and metabolomic data was conducted, and six representative genes potentially involved in the glycosylation of resveratrol and emodin were selected for validation using qRT-PCR. Results A total of 178 UGT genes were identified and grouped into 14 subfamilies, exhibiting substantial structural and functional diversity. The gene family members were unevenly distributed in chromosomes, and several genes were likely generated through tandem or segmental duplication events. Promoter analysis revealed that cis-acting elements were predominantly associated with stress and hormone responses, as well as developmental regulation. Expression correlation heatmaps indicated that genes such as PcUGT065 and PcUGT130 showed strong correlation with resveratrol, emodin, and their glycosylated derivatives. The qRT-PCR results further confirmed the reliability of transcriptome-based expression patterns. Conclusion The UGT gene family in P. cuspidatum exhibits clear structural conservation along with distinct expression divergence. Several members may participate in the modification of resveratrol and emodin. This study provides a theoretical basis for future investigations into the biosynthetic mechanisms of active metabolites in P. cuspidatum and offers insights for its molecular breeding.

Objective This study aimed to comprehensively identify the key genes involved in the biosynthesis of spinosin and jujuboside A. Methods Ziziphi Spinosae Semen samples at green fruit and mature stages were selected as experimental materials to construct transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets. Key candidate genes associated with the spinosin and jujuboside A biosynthesis pathways were systematically analyzed through functional annotation and differential expression gene analysis. Results Metabolomic profiling detected 1 646 metabolites, while transcriptomic sequencing and functional annotation identified 7 316 differentially expressed genes. Results revealed that spinosin was relatively enriched during the green fruit stage of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen, whereas jujuboside A accumulated predominantly at the mature stage. Through phylogenetic and heatmap analyses, 50 key candidate genes were screened, including 33 UGTs, 12 OMTs, two OSCs, and three CYP450s, which are hypothesized to participate in the downstream biosynthesis of spinosin and jujuboside A. Conclusion This work systematically deciphers and proposes biosynthetic pathways for these components, laying a foundation for subsequent functional gene validation. It advances molecular biology research on Ziziphi Spinosae Semen bioactive compounds and provides novel insights for the development and utilization of traditional Chinese medicine resources.

Objective To identify key bacterial taxa associated with saikosaponins content. Methods Rhizosphere soil, root surface soil, and root samples of Bupleurum chinense, B. falcatum, and B. scorzonerifolium were collected. Total DNA was extracted for metagenomic analysis, and UPLC-MS was used to determine the contents of saikosaponin A (SSA), saikosaponin B₂(SSB₂), saikosaponin B₄ (SSB₄), saikosaponin C (SSC), saikosaponin D (SSD), saikosaponin E (SSE), and saikosaponin F (SSF) in the roots. Pearson correlation analysis was then employed to identify significant relationships between these medicinal components and the dominant bacterial species. Results SSD exhibited the highest content among the seven saikosaponins analyzed, with average concentrations of 217.5 μg/g in B. chinense, 116.75 μg/g in B. falcatum, and 139.7 μg/g in B. scorzonerifolium. B. falcatum had the lowest content of SSE and SSF. Metagenomic sequencing identified a total of 5 440 bacterial OTUs. The numbers of unique OTUs in the root surface, rhizosphere, and endophytic compartments were 127, 126, and 110 for B. chinense; 91, 74, and 69 for B. falcatum; and 43, 137, and 126 for B. scorzonerifolium, respectively. Azotobacter chroococcum was dominant in the rhizosphere of B. chinense and B. scorzonerifolium, whereas Streptomyces was the core taxon in the rhizosphere of B. falcatum. Klebsiella sp. and Pseudomonas were significantly enriched in the root surface and endophytic niches of B. chinense and B. falcatum, respectively. The Klebsiella sp., Cellulomonas sp., and Azotobacter chroococcum were also a highly significant positive correlated with the contents of SSA, SSB₂, SSB₄, and SSD, among the correlation network analysis. Conclusion This study revealed that Bupleurum genotype might drive saikosaponins accumulation by niche construction of specific microbial communities.

Objective Toestablish a scientific and reasonable quality evaluation and grading standard for Armeniacae Semen Amarum (ASA). Methods Taking 32 batches of dried mature seeds of Prunus armeniaca as the research objects, Their morphological parameters (longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, thickness diameter, kernel shape index), kernel dry weight, hardness, color values (L^*、a^*、b^*、E^*_ab), odor response values, and amygdalin content were determined. Grade classification was performed using the quality constant method,and the correlations between various indicators and quality grades were investigated through correlation analysis, partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and regression analysis. Results The quality constant A of the 32 batches of ASA kernels ranged from 1.04 to 3.15, Based on the A value, they could be classified into selected grade (six batches) and mixed grade (26 batches). Amygdalin content was significantly positively correlated with hardness and b^* value (P < 0.05), and the quality constant A was extremely significantly positively correlated with dry kernel weight, transverse diameter, hardness, and amygdalin content (P < 0.01). The PLS-DA model could effectively distinguish ASA of different grades, and amygdalin content and quality constant A were identified as the key variables for grading. Regression analysis showed that hardness could explain 20.0% of the variation in amygdalin content, while hardness and transverse diameter together explained 60.10% of the variation in the quality constant. Conclusion The evaluation system constructed in this study based on appearance characteristics, intrinsic components, and quality constant, which helps standardize the market order of ASA, ensure the safety and efficacy of clinical medication. It is of great significance for promoting the standardized development of ASA industry and can provide a scientific basis for the quality evaluation and market grading of ASA.

Objective To investigate the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside and ellagic acid, the medicinal marker components of Rubus chingii, and optimize the processing technology to improve their contents based on the findings. Methods Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF IMS) was used for imaging analysis of R. chingii fruits, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed for quantitative determination of the marker components in fresh fruits and medicinal materials processed by different technologies. Results Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside was mainly distributed in the outer layer of the fruit, while ellagic acid and its precursors were enriched in the receptacle. Both components exhibited the highest content in green fruits and gradually decreased with fruit ripening. Compared with oven-drying, the sun-drying process significantly increased ellagic acid content by 68.71% but reduced kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside content by 41.30%. Drying after steam moistening at 120 ℃ for 30 min followed by drying effectively improved ellagic acid content without significant negative impacts on kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside content or the appearance of medicinal materials. Conclusion The tissue-specific distribution of the marker components in R. chingii is a key factor affecting their content changes during processing. Timely harvesting of green fruits and optimization of processing technology (short-time steam moistening) can synergistically improve the quality of medicinal materials.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract worldwide, with its morbidity and mortality consistently ranking among the highest of all cancers. The development and progression of CRC involve complex pathological mechanisms mediated by multiple genes and pathways. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with its characteristics of multi-component, multi-target, and low toxicity, has demonstrated unique advantages in intervening in CRC. Through holistic regulation across multiple pathways and levels, TCM shows significant potential in inhibiting tumor growth, inducing apoptosis, suppressing angiogenesis, reversing multi-drug resistance, and modulating the tumor microenvironment. CiteSpace was used to conduct a visual analysis of Chinese and English literature on TCM for CRC treatment, focusing on keyword co-occurrence networks, keyword clustering maps, and burst word detection, aiming to intuitively present research hotspots in this field. Furthermore, the latest advances in the mechanisms of action and molecular targets of Chinese herbal compound formulas, herb pairs, and single herb along with its active constituents against CRC were systematically reviewed. This provides a theoretical foundation for the clinical application and drug development of TCM in the field of CRC.

“Chuzhuo Peiben” theory, proposed by nationally renowned Chinese medicine expert Professor Jia Yingjie, plays an important role in guiding the treatment of prostate cancer with traditional Chinese medicine. This article reviews the theory from the perspectives of theoretical interpretation, evidence integration, and paradigm construction. It systematically elucidates the dynamic pathogenesis model of “deficiency of the primordial foundation-coagulation of cancerous turbidity” and demonstrates the core logic of the strategy “tonifying the spleen surpasses tonifying the kidney” in circumventing androgen-related risks and remodeling the tumor microenvironment. In terms of clinical practice, it analyzes the staging-based dynamic treatment system centered around the “Jianpi Lishi Huayu Formula” and evaluates its synergistic value in combined therapy for “enhancing efficacy and reducing toxicity” and “delaying drug resistance.” At the mechanistic level, it integrates multidisciplinary evidence to construct a stereoscopic action network that spans from “multi-target synergistic prediction” to “core pathway experimental validation” and further to “tumor immune microenvironment remodeling,” thereby clarifying the biological basis of integrative intervention. The review also summarizes three core paradigmatic values of TCM intervention. In response to current research challenges, it proposes strategies such as designing prospective platform trials, applying multi-omics technologies, and constructing TCM-specific core outcome sets to promote the development of this field toward evidence-based and precision medicine paradigms.

Obesity, a chronic metabolic disease prevalent worldwide, is closely associated with complications such as type 2 diabetes, metabolism-related fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. The phosphatidylinositol-3-hydroxykinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway is a core hub for regulating cell growth, metabolism, and insulin signal transduction, and its dysfunction is a key molecular mechanism driving the occurrence and development of obesity and its complications. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with its multi-component, multi-target, and holistic regulatory features, has demonstrated unique potential in the prevention and treatment of obesity. This review systematically explains the molecular composition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and its core regulatory role in the energy metabolism of multiple tissues, including adipose, liver, muscle, cardiovascular, pancreatic, and brain. It also deeply analyzes the pathological connection between this pathway and chronic inflammation, lipid metabolism imbalance, and abnormal cell proliferation in obesity. It also focuses on summarizing the active ingredients of TCM, such as saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides, as well as the pharmacological mechanisms of classic compound prescriptions in improving obesity through precise regulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Existing evidence shows that TCM can effectively regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, alleviate insulin resistance, and inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress by activating or inhibiting PI3K/Akt signaling, thereby intervening in obesity and its complications through multiple pathways. This provides an important theoretical basis and research direction for explaining the modern scientific connotation of metabolic regulation in TCM and promoting the development of targeted treatment strategies.

Malignant tumors remain the leading cause of death in China. Their pathogenesis and progression involve multifaceted mechanisms, including genetic mutations, aberrant activation of signaling pathways, and dysregulation of the tumor microenvironment. Current clinical management continues to face significant challenges, such as chemotherapy resistance and the limited efficacy of targeted therapies. Aloe-emodin (AE), a primary anthraquinone active constituent found in the traditional medicinal plant Aloe, demonstrates a promising multi-targeted and multi-mechanistic profile as an anti-tumor agent. This review systematically elucidates the antitumor mechanisms and related research progress of AE, specifically highlighting the induction of autophagy via inhibition of the protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) axis, the promotion of apoptosis through activation of mitochondrial pathways, the suppression of invasion and metastasis by downregulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and the enhancement of antitumor activity via modulation of the tumor immune microenvironment. Additionally, AE enhances antitumor activity by modulating the immune microenvironment. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of AE is validated through structural optimization and drug combination strategies. This review highlights recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of AE and anticipates its clinical translation, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for cancer therapy and inform the development of novel treatment modalities.

Gouty arthritis (GA) is an inflammatory disease arising from autoimmune responses, with a complex pathogenesis. Research indicates that monosodium urate (MSU) crystals, formed by prolonged elevated uric acid levels, play a crucial role in the development of GA. MSU crystals can induce immune responses that promote inflammation, oxidative stress (OS), neutrophil extracellular traps, apoptosis, and macrophage polarization within joint tissues. These immune responses cause severe damage to joint cells and tissues, further inducing the onset of GA. Existing research indicates that the “autophagy-gout” intervention mechanism aligns closely with the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory of “struggle between healthy qi and pathogenic qi”. Activating autophagy stimulates the body's righteous energy by degrading damaged cells and proteins, maintaining cellular homeostasis, and promoting adenosine triphosphate production for energy supply. This enables the righteous energy to self-regulate, self-repair, and resist pathogenic factors, thereby improving gout conditions. Extensive TCM research demonstrates that active herbal extracts such as dihydrodanshikeniol I and diosgenin total saponins, along with TCM formulas like Duhuo Jisheng Decoction and Danggui Sini Decoction, can effectively inhibit the aforementioned immune responses, significantly alleviate inflammation and OS in GA joint tissues, and reduce joint pain and swelling. This suggests that TCM intervention targeting autophagy may represent a promising therapeutic avenue for GA. Based on this, this paper details the mechanisms of autophagy in GA and potential intervention targets, aiming to provide new effective approaches for developing GA treatment strategies.

Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, the dried mature fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait., has the effects of nourishing the liver and kidney and improving eyesight and blackening hair. It can be used to treat dizziness, tinnitus, soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, and premature graying of hair and beard. Studies have shown that Ligustri Lucidi Fructus contains a variety of active components such as triterpenoids, phenolic glycosides, sesquiterpenoids and flavonoids, and has multiple pharmacological effects including antioxidation, anti-aging, immune regulation, liver protection and lipid reduction, anti-inflammation and anti-tumor. The processing of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus has a long history and diverse methods, such as wine-making, salt-making and vineging-making, etc. Different processing methods may alter the nature, taste, meridian tropism and active ingredients of drugs, directly affecting their clinical efficacy and indications. Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, as a resource that can be used both as medicine and food, has relatively high safety. It can be used to treat various diseases such as hair loss, menstrual disorders, chronic hepatitis, diabetic nephropathy and cancer. This article systematically reviews for the first time the research progress made in the pharmacological components and extraction, pharmacological effects and mechanisms, processing methods and efficacy, formula compatibility and application of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus. It innovatively proposes the future research directions and challenges, to provide reference and inspiration for Ligustri Lucidi Fructus research.

Evaluation models for the development value of traditional natural product-based drugs often take the direct construction of disease or pathological models as a precursor. By observing the strength of drug efficacy, further evaluation of in-depth drugability is carried out. However, this traditional approach shows significant randomness and blindness, inevitably leading to a substantial increase in development difficulty and a sharp rise in research and development (R&D) costs. In contrast, the reverse development model based on “physiology-mechanism-pathology” innovatively starts with normal animal models. First, it comprehensively and meticulously observes the physiological effects and toxic effects caused by natural products, and then delves into their underlying mechanisms of action. Based on this, it infers the potential pharmacological activities in a reverse manner. Finally, it specifically designs and constructs corresponding disease or pathological models for rigorous verification. This strategy, through the accurate analysis of the interaction rules between natural products and the body and the effective integration of clues provided by pharmacological effects, achieves precise model construction and scientific evaluation of effectiveness, significantly improving the success rate and efficiency of R&D to a certain extent. In this study, the whole process of the model was practiced with ginkgo terpenoid lactones as the research object, and its new pharmacological activity of reducing bilirubin and anti-jaundice was successfully discovered, which verified the feasibility and practicability of the model. This paper systematically reviews and deeply analyzes the background, basic principles, and technical processes of this innovative approach. At the same time, it predicts and prospects its diverse application prospects in the field of natural medicine R&D. The aim is to provide a solid theoretical basis and forward-looking direction for promoting the strategic innovation and practical application of natural medicine R&D.