Objective To analyze the current research status of Longyanrou (Longan Arillus) using bibliometric methods, and predict its future research hotspots and development trends. Methods Literature on Longan Arillus research was collected from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform (WF), VIP Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP), and the Web of Science Core Collection (WOS). The retrieved literature was imported into NoteExpress, where duplicates and records not meeting the inclusion criteria were removed, and keywords were standardized. Excel, CiteSpace 6.4.R1 advanced, and VOSviewer 1.6.20 were used to statistically analyze publication volume of the literature, the countries of publication, institutions, authors, journals, literature with high citation frequency, keywords, etc. Results A total of 675 eligible articles were retrieved, including 605 Chinese articles and 70 English articles. The annual publication volume of Longan Arillus-related research showed an overall upward trend. The country with the highest publication volume is China. The institutions conducting research on Longan Arillus are also mainly Chinese institutions. The institutions with the most publications in both Chinese and English are Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (11 articles) and Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Science (19 articles), respectively. The authors with the most publications are Li Xuehua (nine articles) and Zhang Mingwei (14 articles), respectively. The journals with the highest publication volume are Shaanxi Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Carbohydrate Polymers, respectively. The top 10 most cited Chinese and English articles mainly focused on the clinical application and pharmacological effects of Longan Arillus. The most frequent Chinese and English keywords were Guipi Decoction (144 times) and polysaccharides (15 times). Conclusion The dominant force in Longan Arillus research is concentrated in China, with domestic institutions serving as the core entities. With the strengthening of domestic and international collaboration, the growth of market demand, the improvement of economic support, the guidance of relevant policies, and advances in research technology, research on Longan Arillus has gradually developed from early traditional clinical application and experience summarization into a modern multidisciplinary research system at the microscopic molecular level. Current research hotspots are based on traditional Chinese medicine theory, exploring the compatibility mechanisms, clinical applications, chemical components, and pharmacological mechanisms such as antioxidation and antitumor effects of Longan Arillus itself and its classic formulas (such as Guipi Decoction). In the future, research will continue to take the promotion of traditional Chinese medicine theory as its foundation, strengthen international exchange and cultural dissemination, and integrate digital and other technological innovation concepts to address key technical challenges in modern traditional Chinese medicine research, deeply analyze the fine chemical composition and pharmacological mechanisms of Longan Arillus, and systematically reveal its pharmacodynamic material basis and pathways of action. At the same time, this study will deepen the collaborative cooperation between universities and enterprises, build an efficient transformation channel from research to industrialization, and promote the industrialization of related achievements, integrate traditional theories with modern technology to enhance innovation capabilities and international influence, and providing a reference for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine theory on Longan Arillus and the industrialization transformation of related scientific and technological achievements.

Objective To investigate the regulatory mechanisms by which different cultivation substrates influence the accumulation of pharmacologically active components in near-wild Tiepishihu (Dendrobium officinale), and provide a basis for elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying quality differences and for optimizing cultivation substrates. Methods D. officinale samples grown on stone-based and wood-based substrates were used as experimental materials. Non-targeted metabolomics was employed to identify and compare the secondary metabolite profiles under the two cultivation modes, while transcriptome sequencing was conducted to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). KEGG and other databases were used for pathway enrichment analysis, which was then integrated with metabolite variation data. Results A total of 2 878 metabolites were identified by metabolomics, of which 354 showed significant differences between the two cultivation modes. These metabolites were mainly involved in phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, lipids, and aromatic amino acids. Flavonoids, alkaloids, and certain amino acid-derived metabolites exhibited overall higher accumulation in stone-grown samples, whereas lipids and steroid-related compounds were relatively enriched in wood-grown samples. Transcriptome sequencing identified 2 966 DEGs. KEGG enrichment analysis indicated significant differentiation in pathways including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis (ko00940), flavonoid biosynthesis (ko00941), phenylalanine/tyrosine/tryptophan biosynthesis (ko00400), and tropane, piperidine and pyridine alkaloid biosynthesis (ko00960). Genes encoding key enzymes in flavonoid biosynthesis [such as phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), chalcone synthase (CHS), flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H)] were upregulated in stone-grown samples, consistent with the accumulation patterns of the corresponding metabolites. Integrated analysis suggested that cultivation substrates may regulate the expression of genes involved in phenylpropanoid-flavonoid-alkaloid metabolism, thereby altering the direction of metabolic flux allocation and ultimately shaping distinct metabolic phenotypes. Conclusion Cultivation substrates influence the types and accumulation levels of active constituents in D. officinale by regulating the expression of genes in phenylpropanoid, flavonoid, and alkaloid biosynthetic pathways, resulting in quality differences between stone-grown and wood-grown materials. This study systematically elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying quality variation in D. officinale and provides a theoretical basis for cultivation substrate optimization and graded utilization of medicinal materials.

Objective To screen species and identify DNA molecular markers based on the chloroplast whole genome data of four species of the genus Bupleurum for medicinal use. Methods Based on the published chloroplast genome sequences of Bupleurum plants, the chloroplast genome was analyzed using bioinformatics methods. A specific DNA barcode for accurately identifying the four original species of Bupleurum medicinal materials was developed based on the hypervariable regions of the chloroplast genome, and then verified. Results The chloroplast genomes of four species ranged in size from 155 478—178 668 bp. All the four genomes were represented as typical quadripartite structures. Two pairs of primers based on the hypervariable regions were designed to efficiently amplify 55 samples. The analysis of sequencing results confirmed that two hypervariable regions, rps16-psbK and petN-psbM, can be used as specific DNA barcodes for the identification of Bupleurum chinense, B. scorzonerifolium, B. smithii and B. marginatum var. stenophyllum. Conclusion The specific DNA barcodes rps16-psbK and petN-psbM, screened by comparative chloroplast genomics, could achieve precise classification and identification of the four original species of Bupleurum medicinal materials, providing important scientific support for ensuring the safety of clinical use and regulating the market order of Bupleurum medicinal materials.

Objective To screen high-quality germplasm resources of Dianchonglou (Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis), reveal the associations between phenotypic traits and saponin content, and lay a foundation for the exploration of genetic resources and the breeding of improved varieties. Methods Through genetic diversity analysis, correlation analysis, cluster analysis (CA), principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and partial least squares-regression analysis (PLS-R), a comprehensive evaluation was conducted on 25 agronomic traits and 10 quality traits of 41 selected P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis germplasm resources. Results The RSD and genetic diversity index (H′) for agronomic traits ranged from 3.56% to 66.63% and from 1.80 to 2.25, respectively. For quality traits, RSD and H′ ranged from 34.26% to 130.18% and from 1.47 to 2.00, respectively. The variation in agronomic traits was mainly attributed to the length of the purple stem portion, pedicel length, and pedicel ratio, while the variation in quality traits was mainly attributed to the contents of polyphyllin V, polyphyllin H, and gracillin. Correlation analysis showed that the sum of polyphyllin I, II, and VII contents was positively correlated with plant height, stem diameter, leaf shape index, rhizome diameter, and powder color values L^*and E^*_ab. Cluster analysis classified the P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis germplasm into three major groups: Group I represented high-yield germplasm, Group II represented high-quality germplasm, and Group III exhibited overall poor growth, low active component contents, and low yield, indicating a generally poor comprehensive performance. PCA simplified the 35 traits into eight principal components, with a cumulative contribution rate of 85.602%. PLS-DA and PLS-R revealed that stem height, leaf length, rhizome diameter, powder color values L^* and E^*_ab, and the total content of polyphyllin I, II, and VII contributed substantially to the D value, and could serve as important indicators for selecting superior provenances. Conclusion The top three germplasm resources based on comprehensive ranking were SZ-16, SZ-11, and SZ-9, which exhibited high quality and high yield, making them potential candidates for cultivation as elite varieties. The stem height, leaf length, rhizome diameter, and powder color values L^*and E^*_ab among agronomic traits, together with the total content of polyphyllin I, II, and VII among quality traits, are important characteristics for distinguishing superior from inferior P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis germplasm.

Objectives Gentiana dahurica was selected as the focal species to assemble and sequence analyze its chloroplast genome, investigate the phylogeographic structure of wild populations across China based on chloroplast gene sequences, assess genetic diversity and population genetic structure, explore the causes and correlations between the genetic characteristics and geographical distribution patterns of the G. dahurica population, and infer its glacial refugia and the dynamic history of the population. Methods A total of 27 wild populations of G. dahurica were collected from six provinces, including Qinghai, Gansu, Shaanxi, Inner Mongolia, ect. All individuals were subjected to DNA resequencing. Following genome assembly and annotation, the chloroplast genomes of all individuals were obtained for comparative genomic analyses, phylogenetic analysis, population dynamic history, and phylogeographic analyses. Results In total, 81 complete chloroplast genomes were generated, all exhibiting the typical quadripartite circular structure with lengths ranging from 148 792 to 149 000 bp. A total of 134 genes were annotated, including 85 protein-coding genes. The IR/SC boundaries of the chloroplast genomes of G. dahurica were conserved across populations. Variation in non-coding regions was markedly higher than in coding regions. G. dahurica exhibited high within-population genetic diversity (h_S = 0.632) and total genetic diversity (h_T = 0.923). Phylogenetic analyses assigned all populations into two genetic clades, but no significant correlation was detected between genetic distance and geographic location. Population size remained relatively stable over historical periods, with no evidence of strong population expansion. Based on the consensus of non-coding sequences of G. dahurica, 27 haplotypes were identified, Based on the consensus of non-coding sequences of G. dahurica, 27 haplotypes were identified. No clear phylogeographic structure was observed among populations. Dispersal corridor analyses suggested that the northeastern Qinghai-Tibet plateau-Qilian mountains-Liupan mountains-Lvliang mountains-Taihang mountains constituted an important historical migration pathway for G. dahurica. Conclusions The chloroplast genome of G. dahurica is highly conserved in structure and stable in gene content. Two mutation hotspots identified here may serve as candidate markers for molecular identification of germplasm resources. Wild G. dahurica likely originated on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau, and mountain chains such as the Qilian, Liupan, Lvliang, and Taihang ranges may have acted as historical migration corridors that facilitated genetic connectivity among populations. This study provides a theoretical foundation for germplasm conservation and development and utilization of this medicinal plant.

Traditional Chinese medicine chemical biology (TCMCB) is an interdisciplinary discipline emerging in the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Guided by TCM theories, TCMCB employs bioactive components from Chinese medicines as molecular probes, focusing on the precise identification of action targets, regulation of signaling pathways, and intervention mechanisms of life processes induced by TCM bioactive ingredients. It provides critical technical support for the modern interpretation of the scientific connotation of TCM and its international promotion. This paper systematically reviews the disciplinary orientation, core technologies and methodologies of TCMCB, summarizes its applications and bottlenecks in the mechanistic elucidation of TCM bioactive components and innovative drug discovery and development, and highlights original research achievements over the past decade. TCMCB has gradually established an integrated research paradigm: “bioactive component screening-precise target identification-mechanism elucidation-clinical translational application” promoting the transformation of TCM theories from empirical description to mechanism-driven interpretation, and offering novel strategies for disease treatment in modern medicine and innovative drug development. Future efforts should focus on overcoming key challenges including the supply of TCM bioactive components, precise validation of targets, and international evaluation systems. Meanwhile, the construction of technology platforms with independent intellectual property rights and a global target database for traditional medicines will facilitate the advancement of TCM toward modern precision medicine.

Suxiao Jiuxin Pill (速效救心丸, SJP) is the first pure traditional Chinese medicine dripping pill officially recorded in the Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China. It is formulated with Chuanxiong (Chuanxiong Rhizoma) and Bingpian (Borneolum Syntheticum) as core components, and is clinically indicated for coronary heart disease and angina pectoris belonging to the qi stagnation and blood stasis syndrome, characterized by definite efficacy and rapid onset. Against the background that treatment of coronary heart disease emphasizes syndrome differentiation and individualized medication, the clinical demand for rapid-acting medicines for acute chest impediment has become increasingly prominent. This paper systematically reviews relevant domestic and international literatures, focusing on the key links of its “rapid onset” and the mechanism of “saving the heart”. From the perspectives of chemical constituents, formulation advantages, pharmacokinetic characteristics and molecular biological mechanisms, this review aims to explore the unique advantages of SJP and provide new ideas and theoretical references for its precise clinical application and further in-depth mechanistic research.

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used anthracycline anticancer agent; however, its dose-dependent and cumulative cardiotoxicity severely limits its long-term clinical use. Danshen (Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) and Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma-based preparations have shown potential for the prevention and treatment of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in both experimental and clinical studies. This review systematically summarizes the cardioprotective mechanisms of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma extracts, active constituents (including tanshinone I, tanshinone II_A, and salvianolic acid B), Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma-containing herbal formulas, and Chinese patent medicines, with particular emphasis on their inhibitory effects on oxidative stress, apoptosis, pyroptosis, inflammation, and other pathological processes. Unlike previous reviews that have focused primarily on individual active constituents or the general cardiovascular protective effects of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, this review compares the pharmacological characteristics and mechanistic differences among different Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma-derived components in DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Based on the current evidence, key barriers to clinical translation are further discussed to provide a reference for the clinical application and drug development of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma-derived therapies.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory disease involving the colonic mucosa, clinically characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and mucopurulent bloody stools. Rectal drug delivery has emerged as an important approach for UC treatment due to its advantages such as direct access to the lesion site, high local drug concentration, and avoidance of the first-pass effect. In recent years, the continuous development of traditional Chinese medicines, chemical drugs, and various rectal formulations have significantly improved the retention and controlled-release performance of rectal drug delivery systems. This review systematically summarizes the domestic and international development history, biological basis of rectal drug delivery, and the pathogenesis of UC, with a focus on analyzing the progress of formulation innovations and clinical studies in rectal drug delivery for UC treatment over the past five years, aiming to provide a reference for the individualized treatment strategies of UC.

Against the backdrop of accelerated innovation in the global biomedical sector and China’s transition toward innovation-driven development in the pharmaceutical industry, Jiangxi province—with its profound traditional Chinese medicine heritage and industrial foundation characterized by “one city, one capital, and multiple parks”—faces both opportunities and challenges. Prominent issues include the relatively small scale of emerging fields such as biologics and antibody drugs, insufficient clustering of high-end innovation factors, and low efficiency in translating research outcomes into applications. To study these challenges, this study employs methods such as literature review, case analysis, and comparative research to systematically assess the current status and core weaknesses of Jiangxi’s innovative drug industry. It further proposes a differentiated development pathway centered on “modernizing traditional Chinese medicine as the foundation while promoting differentiated and coordinated development of biologics and antibody drugs.” The study recommends that Jiangxi should focus on advancing the digital and intelligent transformation and standardization of the entire TCM industry chain, cultivate blockbuster pharmaceutical products with a market scale of RMB 10 billion, implement a gradient layout in key areas such as cell therapy and antibody-drug conjugate drugs, and build a synergistic innovation ecosystem integrating “talent, capital, platforms, and policies,” with strengthened clinical translation and financial support. These measures will enable the transition from a “major pharmaceutical province” to a “strong pharmaceutical province.”