Buzhong Yiqi Decoction Research Articles

Buzhong Yiqi decoction attenuates acquired myasthenia by regulating the JAK2/STAT3/AKT signaling pathway, inhibiting inflammation, and improving mitochondrial function.

Acquired myasthenia (AM), a debilitating autoimmune disease, is typically characterized by skeletal muscle fatigue and weakness. Despite advances in myasthenia gravis treatment, current approaches remain unsatisfactory and many result in unexpected side effects. Traditional Chinese medicine has shown great potential in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, including relieving myasthenic symptoms, improving patients' quality of life, and reducing Western medicine side effects. This study investigates the protective effects and mechanism of BZYQD in mice with acquired myasthenia. BZYQD alleviates the reduced grip strength and increased expression of MAFbx and MuRF-1 in mice with acquired myasthenia. It also reduces levels of pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the mouse serum. In addition, BZYQD reduces ROS accumulation and the mitochondrial ROS production rate, while increasing ATP levels and mitochondrial membrane potential in mice with acquired myasthenia. Moreover, BZYQD decreases the expression of p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and p-AKT in the skeletal muscle of mice with acquired myasthenia. In summary, BZYQD reduces inflammation, enhances mitochondrial function, and regulates the JAK2/STAT3/AKT signaling pathway to treat acquired myasthenia.

Professor ZHUANG Lixing's experience of integrated acupuncture and medication approach to treat motor complications in Parkinson's disease based on the alternation of "movement and stillness"

This paper introduces Professor ZHUANG Lixing's experience in treating motor complications of Parkinson's disease (PD) with acupuncture combined with medication. Based on the characteristics of the alternation of "movement and stillness" in PD motor complications, Professor ZHUANG divides these complications into three distinct periods: "movement" stage, "stillness" stage and "alternation" stage, and proposes an integrated approach of acupuncture and medication, with staged treatment tailored to each period. The main acupoints include Jin's three needles to regulate spirit (four spirit needles, Shenting [GV 24], Yintang [GV 24+], Shenmen [HT 7], Sanyinjiao [SP 6]), along with hand tremor three needles (Hegu [LI 4], Quchi [LI 11], Dingchan), foot tremor three needles (Yinlingquan [SP 9], Yanglingquan [GB 34], Taichong [LR 3]), and Du's three needles (Dazhui [GV 14], Jinsuo [GV 8], Mingmen [GV 4]). The primary medicinal formulas include Lingjiao Gouteng decoction, Banxia Baizhu Tianma decoction, Bazhen decoction combined with Buzhong Yiqi decoction, Sini decoction combined with Yougui pills, and Xiaochaihu decoction. This integrated approach effectively alleviates the motor symptom fluctuations in PD patients, helping them maintain a stable life.

Therapeutic effects of Buzhong Yiqi decoction in patients with spleen and stomach qi deficiency after routine surgery and chemotherapy for colorectal cancer.

According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the spleen and stomach are the basis of acquired nature and the source of qi and blood biochemistry. After surgery and chemotherapy, patients with colorectal cancer often develop spleen and stomach qi deficiency syndrome, leading to decreased immune function. Buzhong Yiqi decoction, a classic TCM prescription, has the effect of tonifying middle-jiao and invigorating qi, boosting Yang, and suppressing immune-related inflammation. Moreover, it is widely used in the treatment of spleen and stomach qi deficiency syndrome. To investigate the effect of Buzhong Yiqi decoction on spleen and stomach qi deficiency in patients with colorectal cancer. One hundred patients with colorectal cancer who underwent preoperative chemotherapy and laparoscopy at The First TCM Hospital of Changde from January 2022 to October 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided equally into control and observation groups. Both groups underwent conventional rehabilitation surgery, and the observation group was supplemented with Buzhong Yiqi decoction. SPSS 26.0 was used for statistical analyses. The χ 2 test was used for univariate analysis; independent sample t-tests were used in all cases. No significant differences were observed preoperatively in the general characteristics of the two groups. Fourteen days post-surgery, the abdominal distension, emaciation, loose stool, loss of appetite, and vomiting scores were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Immune function and interleukin (IL)-10 levels in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group, whereas IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C-reactive protein levels, tumor biological indexes, and adverse reactions in the observation group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). One month after surgery, the patients' quality of life in the observation group was significantly higher than that of the patients in the control group (P < 0.05). Buzhong Yiqi decoction can regulate inflammatory responses and metabolic processes by enhancing immune function, thereby promoting overall immune nutrition and restoring the body's balance.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in Treating Epigastric Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in Treating Epigastric Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Clinical remission of moderate generalized myasthenia gravis through exclusive use of Buzhong Yiqi decoction: A case report

BackgroundMyasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare autoimmune neuromuscular disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers an alternative approach to standard pharmacological and surgical interventions, which are often associated with adverse side effects. This case report details the clinical remission of a 50-year-old male with moderate generalized MG following exclusive treatment with a modified Buzhong Yiqi decoction (BYD), a TCM formula, without the use of immunosuppressive agents. Case summaryThe patient presented with diplopia, bilateral ptosis, weakness in chewing, limb weakness, and other symptoms indicative of spleen and stomach qi deficiency. Modified BYD was prescribed, focusing on strengthening the spleen, nourishing qi and blood, and enhancing immune response. The treatment included ingredients such as Radix Astragali, Angelica sinensis, Atractylodes macrocephala, and others, aiming to restore balance and improve the patient's condition. After two weeks of TCM treatment, the patient showed significant improvement in symptoms of myasthenia. By the second month, all clinical symptoms had disappeared. The patient continued to receive the TCM regimen until the thirtieth month of treatment. At the time of writing this report, the patient has no clinical symptoms and has experienced no relapse. Notably, no obvious adverse effects were reported throughout the treatment. ConclusionThe success of this case suggests that TCM may serve as an independent treatment option for moderate MG, offering a steroid-free alternative, which would be particularly valuable for patients who are intolerant of or refuse steroid therapy, potentially with significant clinical implications. However it needs a randomized clinical trial comparing TCM to conventional Western medicine treatment to validate it.

Research Progress on Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in the Treatment of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Research Progress on Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in the Treatment of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Bu zhong Yiqi Decoction ameliorates mild cognitive impairment by improving mitochondrial oxidative stress damage via the SIRT3/MnSOD/OGG1 pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBu-Zhong-Yi-Qi Decoction(BZYQD) is a traditional formula commonly used in China, known for its effects in tonifying Qi and raising Yang. It can relieve symptoms of cognitive impairment such as forgetfulness and lack of concentration caused by qi deficiency, which is common in aging and debilitating. However, much of the current research on BZYQD has been focused on its impact on the digestive system, leaving its molecular mechanisms in improving cognitive function largely unexplored. Aim of the studyCognitive decline in the aging central nervous system is intrinsically linked to oxidative damage. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic mechanism of BZYQD in treating mild cognitive impairment caused by qi deficiency, particularly through repair of mitochondrial oxidative damage. Materials and methodsA rat model of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) was established by administering reserpine subcutaneously for two weeks, followed by a two-week treatment with BZYQD/GBE. In vitro experiments were conducted to assess the effects of BZYQD on neuronal cells using a H2O2-induced oxidative damage model in PC12 cells. The open field test and the Morris water maze test evaluated the cognitive and learning memory abilities of the rats. HE staining and TEM were employed to observe morphological changes in the hippocampus and its mitochondria. Mitochondrial activity, ATP levels, and cellular viability were measured using assay kits. Protein expression in the SIRT3/MnSOD/OGG1 pathway was analyzed in tissues and cells through western blotting. Levels of 8-OH-dG in mitochondria extracted from tissues and cells were quantified using ELISA. Mitochondrial morphology in PC12 cells was visualized using Mito Red, and mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed using the JC-1 kit. ResultsBZYQD treatment significantly improved cognitive decline caused by reserpine in rats, as well as enhanced mitochondrial morphology and function in the hippocampus. Our findings indicate that BZYQD mitigates mtDNA oxidative damage in rats by modulating the SIRT3/MnSOD/OGG1 pathway. In PC12 cells, BZYQD reduced oxidative damage to mitochondria and mtDNA in H2O2-induced conditions and was associated with changes in the SIRT3/MnSOD/OGG1 pathway. ConclusionBZYQD effectively counteracts reserpine-induced mild cognitive impairment and ameliorates mitochondrial oxidative stress damage through the SIRT3/MnSOD/OGG1 pathway.

Buzhong Yiqi Decoction ameliorates spleen deficiency syndrome by regulating gut microbiota

This study aims to decipher the mechanism of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction(BZYQD) in the treatment of spleen deficiency syndrome via gut microbiota. The mouse models of spleen deficiency syndrome were established by fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT, from patients with spleen deficiency syndrome) and administration of Sennae Folium(SF, 10 g·kg~(-1)), respectively, and treated with BZYQD for 5 d. The pseudosterile mice(administrated with large doses of antibiotics) and the mice transplanted with fecal bacteria from healthy human were taken as the controls. The levels of IgA, interleukin(IL)-2, IL-1β, interferon(IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α), and 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT) in the intestinal tissue of two models were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the CD8~+/CD3~+ ratio was determined by flow cytometry. The composition and changes of the gut microbiota were determined by 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and qPCR. Furthermore, the correlation analysis was performed to study the mediating role of gut microbiota in the treatment. The results showed that BZYQD elevated the IgA level, lowered the IL-1β, TNF-α, and 5-HT levels, and decreased the CD8~+/CD3~+ ratio in the intestinal tissue of the two models. Moreover, BZYQD had two-way regulatory effects on the levels of IL-2 and IFN-γ. BZYQD inhibited the overgrowth and reduced the richness of gut microbiota in the SF model, and improved the gut microbiota structure in the two models. Algoriphagus, Mycobacterium, and CL500＿29＿marine＿group were the common differential genera in the two models compared with the control. Acinetobacter, Parabacteroides, and Ruminococcus were the differential genera unique to the FMT model, and Sphingorhabdus, Lactobacillus, and Anaeroplasma were the unique differential genera in the SF model. BZYQD was capable of regulating all these genera. The qPCR results showed that BZYQD increased the relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and decreased that of Bacteroides uniformis in the two models. The correlation analysis revealed that the levels of above intestinal cytokines were significantly correlated with characteristic gut microorganisms in different mo-dels. The IL-1β level had a significantly positive correlation with Acinetobacter and CL500＿29＿marine＿group in the two models, while the different levels of IL-2 and IFN-γ in the two models may be related to its different gut microbiota structures. In conclusion, BZYQD could regulate the disordered gut microbiota structure in different animal models of spleen deficiency syndrome to improve the intestinal immune status, which might be one of the mechanisms of BZYQD in treating spleen deficiency syndrome.

Based on mRNA Sequencing Techniques to Explore the Molecular Mechanism of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction for Autoimmune Thyroiditis.

Autoimmune diseases (AD) account for a high percentage of the population. One of the most prevalent is autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). However, the therapeutic effects of Buzhong Yiqi (BZYQ) decoction on AIT have not been studied yet. The majority of the present study was conducted on NOD.H-2h4 mice in an attempt to ascertain the therapeutic effects of BZYQ decoction on AIT. The 0.05% sodium iodide water (NaI)-induced AIT mice model was established. A total of nine NOD.H-2h4 mice were randomly divided into three groups: the normal group provided with regular water, the model group drinking freely 0.05% NaI, and the treatment group treated with BZYQ decoction (9.56 g/kg) after NaI supplementation (NaI + BZYQ). BZYQ decoction was administered orally once daily for eight weeks. The thyroid histopathology test was used to measure the severity of lymphocytic infiltration. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the levels of anti-thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17. The Illumina HiSeq X sequencing platform was utilized to analyze the thyroid tissue by mRNA expression profiles. Bioinformatics analysis was used to investigate the biological function of the differentially expressed mRNAs. In addition, the expression of Carbonyl Reductase 1 (CBR1), 6-Pyruvoyltetrahydropterin Synthase (PTS), Major Histocompatibility Complex, Class II (H2-EB1), Interleukin 23 Subunit Alpha (IL-23A), Interleukin 6 Receptor (IL-6RA), and Janus Kinase 1 (JAK1) was measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The treatment group exhibited significantly lower rates of thyroiditis and lymphocyte infiltration compared to the model group. Serum levels of TgAb, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17 were significantly higher in the model group, but they fell dramatically after BZYQ decoction administration. According to our results, 495 genes showed differential expression in the model group compared to the control group. Six hundred twenty-five genes were significantly deregulated in the treatment group compared to the model group. Bioinformatic analysis showed that most mRNAs were associated with immune-inflammatory responses and were involved in multiple signaling pathways, including folate biosynthesis and the Th17 cell differentiation pathway. CBR1, PTS, H2-EB1, IL- 23A, IL-6RA and JAK1 mRNA participated in folate biosynthesis and the Th17 cell differentiation pathway. The qRT-PCR analysis confirmed that the above mRNAs were regulated in the model group compared to the treatment group Conclusion: The results of this investigation have revealed novel insights into the molecular mechanism of action of BZYQ decoction against AIT. The mechanism may be partially attributed to the regulation of mRNA expression and pathways.

Efficacy and safety of Buzhongyiqi decoction combined with acupoint application for functional constipation in elderly people: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Buzhongyiqi decoction combined with acupoint application in the treatment of functional constipation in elderly people. (1) Four Chinese databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science Periodical Database, Chinese Citation Database, China Biology Medicine) and 4 foreign databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase) were searched, excluded, and included in randomized controlled trials of Buzhongyiqi decoction combined with acupoint application for the treatment of functional constipation in elderly people. (2) Systematic evaluation and meta-analysis using the RevMan 5.3 software. (3) Harbord linear regression and sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate publication bias using Stata 14.0. (4) Reliability of the conclusion assessment by sequential test analysis in TSA0.9 software. (5) Quality of evidence evaluation of outcome indicators was evaluated using Gradepro 3.6 software. Eight randomized controlled trials including 658 case sample sizes were included. Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed improved clinical cure rate and effective rate of functional constipation in elderly people, reduced recurrence rate, and efficacy regulated the levels of defecation-related indices and indices of gastrointestinal function. In addition, trial sequential analysis indicated that the total clinical efficacy rate was conclusive, which showed that the therapeutic efficacy of the intervention group was superior to that of the control group. However, the incidence of adverse effects in intervention group was comparable to that of control group, and trial sequential analysis suggests that this result needs to be supported by additional research. Buzhongyiqi decoction combined with acupoint application has potential value in the treatment of functional constipation in elderly people. Currently, there is insufficient clinical evidence to objectively evaluate safety grades for this combination therapy.

Jiawei Buzhong Yiqi decoction ameliorates polycystic ovary syndrome via oocyte-granulosa cell communication

Ethnopharmacological relevanceJiawei Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (JWBZYQ), from records of FuqingzhuNvke, is a classical formula for treating obese women related infertility. JWBZYQ has been shown to be effective in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in both clinical studies and practical practice, with the pharmacological mechanism remaining unknown. Aim of the studyTo explore the potential therapeutic effects and mechanistic insights of JWBZYQ in PCOS. Materials and methodsAn overweight PCOS rat model was established via testosterone propionate (TP) injection and 45% high-fat diet (HFD). Then they were categorized into five distinct groups: Control group, Model group, low-dose of JWBZYQ (JWBZYQ1) group, high-dose of JWBZYQ (JWBZYQ2) group, and metformin (Met) group. Body weight, estrous cycle, and sex hormone levels were observed. Hematoxylin-Eosin staining was employed to investigate the histological characteristics of the ovaries. To identify the pathways that changed significantly, transcriptome analysis was performed. The protein and mRNA levels of key molecules in ovarian zona pellucida (ZP) organization, transzonal projections (TZPs) assembly, steroid hormone receptors, and steroidogenesis were assessed using phalloidin staining, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and polymerase chain reaction. ResultsRNA-seq analysis demonstrated that regulation of hormone secretion, cilium assembly, cell projection assembly, and ZP production may all have crucial impact on the etiology of PCOS and therapeutic effect of JWBZYQ. In particular, PCOS rats exhibited elevated expressions of ZP1-3, which can be reversed by JWBZYQ2 particularly. Simultaneously, TZPs assembly was totally disrupted in PCOS rats, evidenced by the phalloidin staining, upregulated calcium-/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II beta (CaMKIIβ), and deficient p-CaMKIIβ, myosin X (MYO10), proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2), and Fascin. Nonetheless, JWBZYQ or metformin treatment revived the disturbance, repairing the oocyte-granulosa cell communication, regulating steroidogenesis in PCOS rats. In this way, JWBZYQ and metformin exerted remarkable effects in alleviating altered ovarian morphology and function in PCOS rats, with JWBZYQ2 revealing the best effect. ConclusionsJWBZYQ restored the altered ovarian morphology and function by regulating the oocyte-granulosa cell communication, which was related with ZP organization and TZPs assembly in the ovary.

Integrating network pharmacology and experimental verification to investigate the pharmacological mechanisms of Buzhong Yiqi decoction in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

Among all types of cancers, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) exhibits the highest mortality rate with a five-year survival rate below 17% for patients. The Buzhong Yiqi decoction (BZYQD), traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has been reported to exhibit clinical efficacy in the treatment of NSCLC. Nevertheless, the underlying molecular mechanism remains elusive. This study aimed to assess the mechanistic actions exerted by BZYQD against NSCLC using network pharmacological analysis and experimental validation. The public databases were searched for active compounds in BZYQD, their potential targets, and NSCLC-related targets. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to predict the core targets and signaling pathways of BZYQD against NSCLC. After screening, this study validated the results of predictions through invitro experiments and public databases. We found 192 common targets between BZYQD and NSCLC. KEGG analysis showed that the anti-NSCLC effects of BZYQD were mediated through the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. The results of invitro experiment indicated that BZYQD could inhibit cell viability and proliferation of A549 and H1299 cells apart from inducing cell apoptosis. In addition, western blot results substantiated that BZYQD could treat NSCLC by inhibiting the activation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. The current study investigated the pharmacological mechanism of BZYQD against NSCLC via network pharmacology and invitro analyses. Overall, the results revealed that BZYQD could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of NSCLC in the future. Still, more experimental investigations are needed to confirm the applicability of BZYQD for clinical trials.

Immunological mechanism of Buzhong Yiqi decoction in treating ischemic stroke from Th17/Treg cell imbalance

Immunological mechanism of Buzhong Yiqi decoction in treating ischemic stroke from Th17/Treg cell imbalance

Clinical efficacy of Buzhong Yiqi decoction in the treatment of hospital-acquired pneumonia with multi-drug resistant bacteria: a prospective, randomized, multicenter controlled trial.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Buzhong Yiqi decoction (, BZYQ) in the treatment of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) with multi-drug-resistant bacteria (MDRB). This 28-day study was conducted at 5 clinical centers in Shanghai. The eligible patients were randomly assigned (1:1) into the intervention group (BZYQ plus conventional Western Medicine therapy) and control group (conventional Western Medicine therapy). The primary outcomes were the clinical response, clinical pulmonary infection score (CPIS), and microbiologic response. The secondary outcomes were the 28-day all-cause mortality (ACM), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Ⅱ (APACHE Ⅱ) score, ventilator weaning rate, length of mechanical ventilation (MV), length of hospital stay, and changes of infection indicators. Altogether 83 subjects in the intervention group and 85 subjects in the control group were analyzed. The clinical success rate (48.2%) and the pathogen eradication rate (59.0%) of the intervention group were all better than those of the control group (32.9% and 38.9%, respectively) with statistically significant differences (<0.05). The CPIS score of the intervention group (8.9 ± 1.7) was lower than that of the control group (9.6 ± 2.5) (<0.05). The length of MV in the intervention group [(13.7 ± 6.4) d] was significantly shorter than that of the control group [ (17.2 ± 7.2) d] (<0.05). The 28-day ACM of the intervention group (13.33%) was lower than that of the control group (21.2%) with no statistically significant difference (>0.05). The differences between two groups in ventilator weaning rate, length of hospital stay, and APACHE Ⅱ score were not statistically significant (> 0.05). The intervention group displayed decreases in white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, neutrophil percentage, and procalcitonin at day 28 compared with baseline (<0.05). No serious adverse events occurred in either group during the 28-day follow-up. BZYQ may be an effective therapeutic option for the management of HAP with MDRB.

Analysis of the Clinical Efficacy of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction in the Treatment of Mild COVID-19

Abstract: Objective: To explore the clinical significance of Buzhong Yiqi decoction in treating patients with mild COVID-19. Methods: 88 patients with mild COVID-19 admitted to the hospital for outpatient treatment from December 2022 to July 2023 were selected as the research subjects. They were divided into two groups through random number generator. The control group was given conventional Western medicine treatment, while the observation group was given Buzhong Yiqi decoction combined treatment. The effects of the two types of treatment were compared and analyzed. Results: Before treatment, there was no difference in inflammatory indicators between the two groups (P &gt; 0.05); after treatment, the C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cells (WBC), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels of the observation group were lower than those of the control group (P &lt; 0.05). The treatment received in the observation group was significantly more effective the treatment received in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). There was no difference in the scores of the traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scale between the two groups before treatment (P &gt; 0.05). The scores for fatigue, sputum, cough, and fever of the observation group after treatment were all lower than those of the control group (P &lt; 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Buzhong Yiqi Decoction can reduce symptoms and improve the body’s inflammatory response of patients with mild COVID-19 patients.

Combined Treatment with Bojungikgi-tang (Buzhong Yiqi Decoction) and Riluzole Attenuates Cell Death in TDP-43-Expressing Cells.

To examine the effect of combined treatment with Bojungikgi-tang (BJIGT, Buzhong Yiqi Decoction) and riluzole (RZ) in transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) stress granule (SG) cells, a amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cell line using transcriptomic and molecular techniques. TDP-43 SG cells were pretreated with BJIGT (100 µg/mL), RZ (50 µmol/L), and combined BJIGT (100 µg/mL)/RZ (50 µmol/L) for 6 h before treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 200 µmol/L). Cell viability assay was performed to elucidate cell toxicity in TDP-43 SC cells using a cell-counting kit-8 (CCK8) assay kit. The expression levels of cell death-related proteins, including Bax, caspase 1, cleaved caspase 3 and DJ1 in TDP-43 SG cells were examined by Western blot analysis. The autophagy-related proteins, including pmTOR/mTOR, LC3b, P62, ATG7 and Bcl-2-associated athanogene 3 (Bag3) were investigated using immunofluorescence and immunoblotting assays. Cell viability assay and Western blot analysis showed that combined treatment with BJIGT and RZ suppressed LPS-induced cell death and expression of cell death-related proteins, including Bax, caspase 1, and DJ1 (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting assays showed that combined treatment with BJIGT and RZ reduced LPS-induced formation of TDP-43 aggregates and regulated autophagy-related protein levels, including p62, light chain 3b, Bag3, and ATG7, in TDP-43-expressing cells (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The combined treatment of BJIGT and RZ might reduce inflammation and regulate autophagy dysfunction in TDP-43-induced ALS.

Jianpi Shengqing Huazhuo Formula improves abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism in obesity by regulating mitochondrial biogenesis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceJianpi Shengqing Huazhuo Formula (JSH) is a modified prescription based on traditional Chinese medicine theory and classic prescriptions (Buzhong Yiqi Decoction and Yuye Decoction). It has been found that JSH has a good effect on obese patients with early abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to study its clinical efficacy and pharmacological effect. Aim of the studyTo observe the clinical efficacy of JSH and explore the mechanism of the formula to improve glucose and lipid metabolism in obese rats. Materials and methods1. Clinical observation: 10 overweight/obese patients with abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism were selected to observe the indicators of serum glucose, serum lipids and liver damage of the patients before and after treatment with JSH. 2. Animal experiments: Fifty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, Metformin group (120 mg/kg/day), JSH-L group (5 g/kg/day) and JSH-H group (20 g/kg/day), with 10 rats in each group.The obese SD rat model was produced by feeding 60% high-fat diet for 8 weeks, and the drug group was given prophylactic administration for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, body weight, abdominal fat, plasma glucose, plasma lipids, plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in plasma were detected by Elisa, and the changes of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) in plasma and liver tissue were detected by kits. The pathological changes and lipid deposition in liver were observed by HE staining and oil red O staining, and the changes in the number of mitochondria in liver cells were observed by transmission electron microscopy. RT-qPCR and Western Blot (WB) were used to detect the mitochondrial regulation-related indicators PGC-1α, NRF1, TFAM, MFN2, DRP1 and apoptosis-related indicators Bcl-2, Bax, caspase 8 in liver tissue. Results1. Clinical observation: After one month administration, the patient's body weight, BMI, 2 h oral glucose tolerance test (2hOGTT), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) decreased significantly, and the indicators of liver damage AST and ALT also decreased significantly. 2. Animal experiments: JSH can significantly reduce body weight and abdominal fat area, improve glucose and lipid metabolism, and also reduce plasma IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α content in obese rats, and improve oxidative stress; HE staining and oil red O staining also showed that JSH can alleviate liver damage and lipid deposition in the liver. Further observations of liver cell ultrastructure showed that JSH can ameliorate the reduction of liver mitochondria caused by a high-fat diet and promote the expression of indicators of mitochondrial biogenesis related to PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM. Moreover, JSH could promote the expression of MFN2 and DRP1, decrease Bcl-2 and increase Bax in the liver. Conclusions1. Clinical observation: JSH can reduce body weight, serum glucose, serum lipid, and liver injury in overweight/obese patients. 2. Animal experiments: JSH regulates PGC-1α/NRF1/TFAM signaling pathway promotes liver mitochondrial biogenesis, improves glucose and lipid metabolism in obese rats, and regulates mitochondrial dependent apoptosis indicators Bcl-2/Bax to reduce liver injury.

Effects of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (Middle Qi Tonifying Decoction) in the Treatment of Chronic Cervicitis of Spleen Deficiency Type

Objective: To observe the effects of modified Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (Middle Qi Tonifying Decoction) in the treatment of chronic cervicitis of spleen deficiency type. Methods: From May 2021 to December 2022, 80 patients from our hospital (The First People’s Hospital of Huangzhong District) were randomly divided into two groups (40 cases/group). Patients in the control group were treated with Western medicine, whereas patients in the observation group were treated with Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (Middle Qi Tonifying Decoction) on the basis of Western medicine. The effects (curative effect, traditional Chinese medicine [TCM] symptom scores, and incidence of adverse reactions) were compared between both groups. Results: Before treatment, the differences in TCM symptom scores and incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups were not statistically significant (P &gt; 0.05). Compared with the control group, the observation group had significantly lower TCM symptom scores after treatment and higher curative effect (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: For patients with chronic cervicitis of spleen deficiency type, Buzhong Yiqi Decoction (Middle Qi Tonifying Decoction) is effective. Significant improvement in symptoms is evident with the use of Buzhong Yiqi Decoction, and it has little side effects. Given its outstanding therapeutic advantages, its application should be advocated in clinical practice.

Successful complementary therapy with Chinese herbal medicine in a patient with refractory symptoms from systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report

BackgroundThis study presents a unique case of a patient diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and a relatively rare type of traditional Chinese medicine known as Qi deficiency and cold-dampness syndrome. The patient's condition was successfully treated using a combination of complementary therapies, specifically the modified Buzhong Yiqi decoction and the Erchen decoction. Case presentationA 34-year-old female patient experienced intermittent arthralgia and skin rash over three years. She also developed recurrent arthralgia and skin rashes in the last month, followed by low-grade fever, vaginal bleeding, alopecia, and fatigue. The patient was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and was prescribed prednisone, tacrolimus, anti-allergic medications (ebastine and loratadine), and norethindrone. While the arthralgia improved, the low-grade fever and rash persisted and, in some instances, worsened. Based on the evaluation of tongue coating and pulses, the patient's symptoms were attributed to Qi deficiency and cold-dampness syndrome. Consequently, the modified Buzhong Yiqi decoction and the Erchen decoction were added to her treatment regimen. The former was used to tonify Qi, while the latter was employed to resolve the phlegm dampness. As a result, the patient's fever subsided after three days, and all symptoms resolved within five days. ConclusionThe modified Buzhong Yiqi decoction and the Erchen decoction could be considered complementary therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with Qi deficiency and cold-dampness syndrome.

Efficacy of Buzhong Yiqi decoction on benign prostatic hyperplasia and its possible mechanism.

To explored the mechanism of Buzhong Yigi decoction ( BZYQD) in inhibiting prostatic cell proliferation effect. The compounds of BZYQD consisted with eight herbs were searched in TCMSP databases and the putative targets of BZYQD were collected in Drugbank database. Then, "Benign prostatic hyperplasia" (BPH) was used to find the targets based on the GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) and Therapeutic Target Database (TTD) databases, and they were further used to collect further collect the intersection targets between BZYQD and BPH by counter-selection. Next, Herb-Compound-Target-Disease network was constructed by Cytoscape software and protein interaction network was built by Search tool for recurring instances of neighbouring genes (STRING) database. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment were analyzed by Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) database to predict the mechanism of the intersection targets. Mitogen activated protein kinase 8 (MAPK8), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and quercetin were chosen to perform molecular docking. Then 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was to detect the bility of BPH-1 (BPH epithelial cell line) by treated with quercetin at the concentrations of 15, 30, 60, 120 μM for 12, 24, 48, 72 h. The production of IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-1β and were mRNA expression detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Western blot was used to detect the expression of phospho-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-P38) and matrix metalloprotein-9 (MMP-9). A total 151 chemical ingredients of 8 herbs and 1756 targets in BZYQD, 105 common targets of BZYQD and BPH which mainly involving with MAPK8, IL-6, and so on. GO enrichment analysis got 352 GO entries (0.05) which included 208 entries of biological process, 64 entries of cell component and 80 entries of molecular function. KEGG pathway Enrichment analyses got 20 significant pathways which mainly involved with MAPK signaling way. MTT assay indicated quercetin inhibited the viability of BPH-1 cells by time-and dose-dependent manner. Quercetin decreased the IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β production and mRNA expression, and the expression of p-P38 and MMP-9 were also obviously reduced after treated with quercetin. BZYQD inhibited BPH through suppressing inflammatory response which might involving with regulating the MAPK signaling way.