Chinese Herbal Group Research Articles

Acrid and Bitter Chinese Herbs in Decoction Effectively Relieve Lung Inflammation and Regulation of TRPV1/TAS2R14 Channels in a Rat Asthmatic Model.

Background Shegan Mahuang decoction (SGMHD) was widely used as a classic prescription of traditional Chinese medicine to treat asthma. However, there is no research on the acrid and bitter Chinese herbs in the SGMHD to treat asthma. This study aimed to investigate the effects of SGMHD and its acrid-bitter Chinese herbs composition on airway inflammation and the expression of TRPV1 and TAS2R14 genes and proteins in asthmatic rats. Methods SD (Sprague Dawley) rats of asthma were induced by ovalbumin and aluminum hydroxide, then randomly divided into the Normal group, Model group, SGMHD group, Dexamethasone (Dex) group, Guilongkechuangning (GLKC) group, The Acrid Chinese Herbs group (ACH), and The Bitter Chinese Herbs group (BCH). The rats were given intragastric gavage after 21 days for 4 weeks. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected, and the levels of IL-4, IL-13, nerve factors SP, CGRP, PGE2, and serum of IgE were determined by ELISA. Pathological changes in the lungs were determined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The expression of TRPV1 and TAS2R14 in the rat lung group was detected by immunofluorescence (IF). The expression levels of TRPV1 and TAS2R14 were measured using western blotting. The mRNA levels of TRPV1 and TAS2R14 were measured using RT-qPCR. Results The levels of serum IgE in treated rats and the cytokines IL-4, IL-13, SP, CGRP, and PGE2 were all decreased. HE-staining showed that significantly reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in lung tissue. IF-staining showed the expression levels except those of the normal group were enhanced. Acrid Chinese herbs inhibited TRPV1, and bitter Chinese herbs activated the gene and protein expression of TAS2R in the lung. Conclusion The acrid Chinese herbs regulate TRPV1, and bitter Chinese herbs regulate the gene and protein expression of TAS2R14, through nerve and immune-inflammatory factors, reduced airway inflammation, reduced airway reactivity, promoted airway remodeling, and the combination of acrid-bitter Chinese herbs can enhance the above effects. This will lay a foundation for further in vivo study of specific compounds of acrid-bitter Chinese herbs.

Huayu Sanjie Enema Liquid Relieves Pain in Endometriosis Model Rats by Inhibiting Inflammation, Peripheral Sensitization, and Pelvic Adhesion.

The objective of this study is to observe the effect of relieving pain of Huayu Sanjie enema liquid (HYSJ-EL) on endometriosis model rats and to explore its mechanism of action. Of 24 female Sprague Dawley rats, six were randomly selected as the sham operation group (normal control group). The remaining rats were used to establish rat models of endometriosis through autologous endometrial transplantation combined with estrogen injection. Successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into the model, indomethacin (Western medicine group), and HYSJ-EL (Chinese herbs group) treatment groups. The thermal pain threshold of rats was measured, and hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe pathological changes after sampling. Serum levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Furthermore, the protein and mRNA expression levels of transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the endometrium and endometriotic lesions were measured using Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR assays, respectively. Compared to the model group, the heat pain threshold of rats in the HYSJ-EL group was significantly increased (P < 0.01), and the serum levels of PGE2, IL-6, MIP-2, PAI-1, and TGF-β were significantly decreased (P < 0.01), as well as the expression of TRPV1 and TNF-α protein and mRNA in the tissue of the ectopic lesion was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). These results indicate that the Huayu Sanjie enema liquid exerts analgesic effects on endometriosis by inhibiting inflammation, peripheral nerve sensitization, and pelvic adhesion.

Modified Renshen Wumei Decoction Alleviates Intestinal Barrier Destruction in Rats with Diarrhea.

Modified Renshen Wumei decoction (MRWD), a famous traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used for treating persistent diarrhea. However, as the mechanism by which MRWD regulates diarrhea remains unknown, we examined the protective effects of MRWD on intestinal barrier integrity in a diarrhea model. In total, 48 male rats were randomly distributed to four treatment groups: the blank group (CK group), model group (MC group), Medilac-Vita group (MV group) and Chinese herb group (MRWD group). After a 21-day experiment, serum and colon samples were assessed. The diarrhea index, pathological examination findings and change in D-lactate and diamine oxidase (DAO) contents illustrated that the induction of diarrhea caused intestinal injury, which was ameliorated by MV and MRWD infusion. Metabolomics analysis identified several metabolites in the serum. Some critical metabolites, such as phosphoric acid, taurine, cortisone, leukotriene B4 and calcitriol, were found to be significantly elevated by MRWD infusion. Importantly, these differences correlated with mineral absorption and metabolism and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathways. Moreover, it significantly increased the expression levels of TLR4, MyD88 and p-NF-κB p65 proteins and the contents of IL-1 and TNF-α, while the expression levels of occludin, claudin-1 and ZO-1 proteins decreased. These deleterious effects were significantly alleviated by MV and MRWD infusion. Our findings indicate that MRWD infusion helps alleviate diarrhea, possibly by maintaining electrolyte homeostasis, improving the intestinal barrier integrity, and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB axis.

Dynamic Protective Effect of Chinese Herbal Prescription, Yiqi Jiedu Decoction, on Testis in Mice with Acute Radiation Injury.

Objective A Chinese herbal prescription, Yiqi Jiedu (YQJD) decoction, is used for injuries caused by radiotherapy. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic protective effects of YQJD decoction in mice on radiation damage at different time points of the testis. Methods The 200 male Balb/c mice were randomly divided into 5 groups (blank, model, Anduolin, low-dose YQJD, and high-dose YQJD groups). Blank and model groups were all given stomach deionized water. Anduolin group and high and low dose of Chinese herb groups were treated with Chinese material medical decoction compound for 2 weeks before being irradiated. Except for the blank group, other groups were given whole-body one-time irradiation of 5.5 Gy 60Co gamma rays. Histopathology examination of testes was conducted on the 1st, 7th, 21st, and 35th day after irradiation, respectively. Indexes of sperm motility rate, sperm count, serum levels of testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were also measured correspondingly. Result Compared to 1 day and 7 days after irradiation, most of the indexes, including testis index, sperm motility, and count, were decreased on the 21st and 35th day in all irradiated groups. However, compared with the model group, the indexes to assess sperm quality and the morphological structures of testis in low-dose and high-dose YQJD groups were significantly recovered on the 21st and 35th days. Additionally, reproductive hormones, including testosterone and estradiol, were recovered more in low-dose and high-dose YQJD groups on the 21st and 35th days. Conclusion The YQJD decoction is able to accelerate the recovery of sperm indexes, testosterone, and estradiol levels of sex hormones in mice after irradiation and demonstrated good protective effects on the testis.

Dietary supplementation with daidzein and Chinese herbs, independently and combined, improves laying performance, egg quality and plasma hormone levels of post-peak laying hens

This experiment examined the separate and combined effects of daidzein (Da) and Chinese herbs (CH) on laying performance and egg quality of post-peak laying hens. Additionally, we explored potential mechanisms of action for these 2 additives by examining plasma hormone levels. After 4 wk of acclimation to caging, 60-week-old Hyline Brown hens (360) were selected and randomly divided into 4 groups with 6 replicates and 15 chickens per replicate. The following 4 dietary groups were utilized: 1) control group (basal diet); 2) Da group (basal diet + 0.03 kg/t DA); 3) CH group (basal diet +0.6 kg/t CH); 4) Da + CH group (basal diet + 0.03 kg/t Da + 0.6 kg/t CH). Data were analyzed in a completely randomized design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Egg production and FCR treatment averages were analyzed in the following 3 phases: wk 1-4, 5-8, and 1-8 of treatment administration. Results revealed that Da increased egg production but decreased FCR (P < 0.05) for wk 1-8 and especially during wk 5-8 (P < 0.05). CH decreased FCR in wk 1-4 and 5-8 (P < 0.05), but increased egg production only during wk 5-8 (P < 0.05). Da increased Haugh units (P < 0.05) on wk 4 and 8; CH increased Haugh units (P < 0.05) but decreased yolk ratio (P < 0.05) on wk 4 and 8. Da increased the plasma levels of T3, PROG, FSH, LH and E2 (P < 0.05); CH increased the plasma level of T3 (P < 0.05). Additionally, Da x CH interactions existed for albumen height, Haugh units, albumen ratio and the level of T3 on wk 8 (P < 0.05), indicating that the combination of Da and CH was more effective than administration of either of these dietary components independently. In conclusion, Da and CH, both independently and in combination, increase laying performance, egg quality and plasma hormones levels in post-peak laying hens. Therefore, these treatments may be able to provide prolonged economic benefits to aged laying hens.

Clinical research of auricular gold-needle therapy in treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome of qi deficiency constitution

To observe the clinical therapeutic effects of auricular gold-needle therapy on chronic fatigue syndrome of qi deficiency constitution and explore its potential mechanism. A total of 120 patients were randomized into an auricular gold-needle therapy group, an auricular point pressure therapy group and a Chinese herb group, 40 cases in each one. Additionally, a health control group (40 cases) was set up, without any intervention. In the auricular gold-needle therapy group, the gold needle was used to stimulate the auricular points on one side and the cowherb seed pressure therapy on the other side. In the auricular point pressure therapy group, the cowherb seed pressure therapy was adopted only on one side. The auricular points were shen (CO10), xin (CO15), fei (CO14), pizhixia (AT4), etc. in the two groups. The auricular points on both sides were used alternatively. The treatment was given once a week, 4 treatments as one course and the consecutive 3 courses of treatment were required. In the Chinese herb group, buzhong yiqi wan was prescribed for oral administration, 6 g, twice a day, the medication for 1 month was as one session and the consecutive 3 sessions of medication were required. Before and after treatment, separately, the clinical symptom score, the levels of the serum immunoglobulins, i.e. IgA, IgG and IgM were observed in the patients of the three groups. The therapeutic effects were evaluated in the three groups. The total effective rate was 90.0% (36/40) in the auricular gold-needle therapy group, better than 80.0% (32/40) in the auricular point pressure therapy group and 82.5% (33/40) in the Chinese herb group (both P<0.05). Before treatment, the clinical symptom scores of the patients in the three groups were obviously higher than the health control group (all P<0.001). After treatment, the symptom scores were all reduced as compared the scores before treatment in the three groups (all P<0.001) and the symptom scores in the auricular gold-needle therapy group were better than the auricular point pressure therapy group and the Chinese herb group (both P<0.01). Before treatment, the levels of serum IgA, IgG and IgM of the patients in the three groups were lower than the health control group (all P<0.001). The levels were all improved after treatment in the three groups (all P<0.01), and the levels in the auricular gold-needle therapy group was better than the auricular point pressure therapy group and the Chinese herb group (all P<0.05). The auricular gold-needle therapy achieves the significant therapeutic effects on chronic fatigue syndrome of qi deficiency constitution and its mechanism is probably related to the regulation of immune function.

Acupoint injection of BMSCs combined with Chinese herbs for capillary density in ischemic hind limb of diabetes mellitus rats

To observe the effect of acupoint injection of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) combined with Chinese herbs of benefiting qi for activating blood circulation for capillary density and arterioles density in skeletal muscle in ischemic hind limb of diabetes mellitus (DM) rats. A total of 80 rats were randomized into a normal sham operation group (10 rats) and a model group (70 rats). Disposable intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 50.0 mg/kg) was used to establish DM model, and the rats in the model group were randomized into 7 subgroups, 10 rats in each one. The subgroups were the DM sham operation group, DM ischemic group, Chinese herb group (intragastric herbs of benefiting qi for activating blood circulation), local injection group (BMSCs local injection), local injection + Chinese herb group (BMSCs local injection combined with intragastric herbs of benefiting qi for activating blood circulation), acupoint injection group (BMSCs acupoint injection), acupoint injection + Chinese herb group (BMSCs acupoint injection combined with intragastric herbs of benefiting qi for activating blood circulation). The local injection was phosphate buffer (PBS) injection at the equidistant 5 points along the line between the ischemic tissue and the normal tissue a time. The acupoints were "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6), "Zhaohai" (KI 6), "Huantiao" (GB 30), "Housanli" (ST 36) and "Yanglingquan" (GB 34). 100 μL BMSCs with 1×107/mL was totally injected at the above acupoints for one rat, 20 μL an acupoint. 1.5 kg/L Chinese herbs were applied by intragastric administration, including 120 g Radix Astragali, 120 g Codonopsis, 48 g Radix Glycyrrhiza, 120 g Angelica sinensis, 120 g Blood Rattan, 48 g Achyranthes bidentata. Intragastric distilled water was used in the other non-Chinese herb groups. The expressions of α-smooth muscle actin (α-actin), latelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (CD31) and von willebrand factor (vWF) in the skeletal muscle were detected with immunohistochemical SP two-step method. Twenty-one days after intervention, the expressions of α-actin and CD31 on the operation hind limb were higher than those on the healthy hind limb in all the groups, except the Chinese herb group (P<0.05，P<0.01). The vWF expressions on the operation side were lower than those on the healthy side in the Chinese herb group, the local injection group, the local injection + Chinese herb group and the acupoint injection + Chinese herb group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The α-actin expression on the operation side in the acupoint injection + Chinese herb group was higher than those in the normal sham operation group, DM sham operation group, the DM ischemic group and the local injection group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The CD31 expressions in the acupoint injection group, the acupoint injection + Chinese herb group, local injection + Chinese herb group were higher than those in the normal sham operation group, DM sham operation group and DM ischemic group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The CD31 expression in the acupoint injection + Chinese herb group was higher than those in the Chinese herb group and the local injection group (both P<0.05). The vWF expressions in the local injection + Chinese herb group, the acupoint injection group and the acupoint injection + Chinese herb group lower than those in the DM sham operation group and the DM ischemic group (P<0.05, P<0.01). schemia increases the expressions of the vascular density related factors of α-actin and CD31. It is more obvious for the increasing expressions of α-actin and CD31, and decreasing expression of vWF with the interventions of simple BMSCs injection and simple Chinese herbs of benefiting qi for activating blood circulation, especially with the combination of the above tow methods. It is indicated that acupoint injection of BMSCs combined with Chinese herbs of benefiting qi for activating blood circulation can improve the angiogenesis of ischemic tissue.

Evaluation on Effectiveness and Safety of Chinese Herbs in Treatment of Sub-health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Chinese herbs in the treatment of sub-health systematically. Nine databases were systematically and extensively searched to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about Chinese herbs in the treatment of sub-health. The outcomes included overall effective rate, main symptoms, quality of life, etc. Literature screening, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted according to Cochrane Handbook 5.1. Meta-analysis was conducted to the included literature with Review Manager Software. Seventy-two studies involving 9,296 patients with sub-health were included with 4,908 patients in experimental groups and 4,387 patients in control groups. The overall quality of included clinical research was not high. In the aspect of improving overall effective rate, relieving main symptoms, Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) score, Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) score, Fatigue Scale-14 (FS-14), Cornell Medical Index (CMI) score and discontinuation rate, the effects of experimental groups were better than that of control groups. According to available research reports, adverse reactions in Chinese herb groups were mainly mild gastrointestinal symptoms, which did not affect the treatment. Chinese herbs have a curative effect in the treatment of sub-health. However, there are no clear criteria for diagnosis and curative effectiveness judgment globally, which would affect the accuracy of curative effect evaluation.

Evaluation of potential anti-toxoplasmosis efficiency of combined traditional herbs in a mouse model.

Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide spread protozoan and is able to infect almost all warm-blood animals. No effective drugs are available clinically on toxoplasmosis. Chinese traditional herbal medicines have provided remedies for many health problems. There exists a possibility that Chinese herbs may provide protection against T. gondii. This work aims to assess the protective efficacy of combined Chinese herbs against T. gondii. We screened five herbal medicines that have different pharmacological effects and combined them into a prescription according to the traditional Chinese medicine compatibility principle. The drug potential and protective efficacy were evaluated through a mouse model by determining the survival time, the parasite load in blood and tissues, the change of cell proportions in blood and histological detection. The results showed that the survival time of mice in the 500 mg Chinese herbs group and sulfadiazine group was significantly longer than that of the PBS control group. Also the parasite load in blood and tissues of 500 mg Chinese herbs and sulfadiazine groups was significantly lower than that of PBS group at 7 days post infection (dpi), which was in accordance with the result of histological detection. Monocyte and neutrophil of infected mice were remarkably increased while lymphocyte was dramatically decreased compared to that of blank group at 7 dpi. The results demonstrated that the 500 mg dosage of our Chinese herbs could slow down the replication of T. gondii and prolong the survival time of mice and could be considered as possible candidate drug against toxoplasmosis.

Autophagosome activity in macrophage for atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE−/− mice enhanced by Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules

ObjectiveAtherosclerosis is the fundamental pathophysiologic component of cardiovascular disease, and Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules show great efficiency in the treatment of the disease. However, the mechanism of Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules is still unclear. In this study, we have combined experiments with network pharmacology to explore the anti-atherosclerosis mechanism of Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules. Method120 male ApoE−/− mice were randomly divided into three groups: the model group, Chinese herb group and Atorvastatin group. The model group, Atorvastatin group and Chinese herb group were fed with a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus atorvastatin (5.1 mg/kg/d) and a high-fat diet plus Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules (16.5 g/kg/d) for 16 weeks, respectively. Atherogenesis was identified by H&E staining. The colocalization of neutral lipid stain BODIPY and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and the colocalization of BODIPY and lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) within ApoE−/− mice aortic plaques were tested using fluorescence confocal microscopy and the Pearson's coefficients were calculated. To further explore the anti-atherosclerosis mechanism of Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules, the network pharmacology was used to construct the herb-compound-target network. ResultsThe size of the aortic lipid plaque in the Chinese herb group and Atorvastatin group were smaller compared with the model group on the 16th week. Compared with the model group on the 16th week, the BODIPY and LC3 colocalization rate, the BODIPY and LAMP1 colocalization rate of the Chinese herb group and Atorvastatin group all presented significant increase in the aortic plaque (P < .001), showing that Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules could enhance autophagosome activity in the macrophage. In the herb-compound-target network, 17 active compounds and 27 targets were obtained through literature searching and using LHRI & DAVID Bioinformatics. It was found that 23 targets were correlated with the macrophage. Some of them participated in macrophage inflammatory response, and the other targets could promote/inhibit phagocytosis of the macrophage. It was hypothesized that the active compounds of Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules were acting on these targets and having y the biological effects. ConclusionsIn the progression stage of atherosclerosis, Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules can still make the macrophage have higher autophagosome activity, and play a role of anti-atherogenesis.

Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules reduce atherogenesis and promote the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 in rabbit atherosclerotic plaque macrophages and the liver

ObjectiveATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is an integral membrane protein that plays a key role in cellular lipid metabolism, preventing the accumulation of lipids that contribute to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules are a Chinese herbal compound that is capable of treating atherosclerosis. This study was designed to explore the potential pharmacological mechanism by which Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules protect against atherosclerosis. MethodsForty-nine male New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into seven groups: normal control group, normal diet; model groups 1 and 2: balloon injury and high-fat diet for 6 or 12 weeks; statin groups 1 and 2: balloon injury and high-fat diet plus atorvastatin for 6 or 12 weeks; and Chinese herb groups 1 and 2: balloon injury and high-fat diet plus Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules for 6 or12 weeks. The granules were administered at a dose of 1.14 g/kg/d, with atorvastatin (1.14 mg/kg/d) serving as positive control. Serum lipid profiles and liver function indices were measured. Atherogenesis was viewed after H&E staining and quantified by thickened intimal area percentage and maximal intimal thickness percentage. The ABCA1 protein expression in atherosclerotic plaque macrophages of the common carotid arteries (CCA), thoracic aortae (TA), and liver tissues were observed by immunohistochemical staining and evaluated using mean optical density (OD) value in macrophages and ABCA1-positive hepatocyte number. ResultsCompared with model group 1 at week 6, Chinese herb group 1 and statin group 1 displayed significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC) (P = 0.027, 0.012) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P = 0.039, 0.028) levels, as well as marked increases in ABCA1-positive hepatocyte numbers (P all <0.001), and only statin group 1 displayed a markedly reduced maximal intimal thickness percentage in the CCA (P = 0.018). Compared with model group 2 at week 12, Chinese herb group 2 and statin group 2 all presented significant reductions in TC (P = 0.011, 0.003), LDL-C (P = 0.017, 0.010) and thickened intimal area percentage in the CCA (P = 0.001, 0.022), as well as prominent increases in the ABCA1 OD value of both the CCA (P = 0.001, 0.039) and TA (P = 0.001, 0.025) and positive hepatocyte number (P all <0.001). Chinese herb group 2 had a markedly reduced maximal intimal thickness percentage compared with model group 2 (P = 0.006) and a higher positive hepatocytes number than statin group 2 (P = 0.001). ConclusionsTiaozhi Tongmai Granules appear to have an anti-atherogenic effect that is most likely mediated by simultaneously upregulating the protein expression of ABCA1 in rabbit atherosclerotic plaque macrophages and in the liver.

Effects of Chinese herbs combined with in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation on infertility: a clinical randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveTo assess the effects of using Chinese herbs in assisted reproductive technology. MethodsFour hundred and thirty-three subjects aged less than 42 years with infertility due to Fallopian tube or male-related factors who were willing to undertake in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation were randomly allocated to a Chinese herb intervention group (n=216) or a conventional treatment control group (n=217). All subjects received one of four routine ultra-ovulation-promoting therapies at the Reproductive Center in the Third Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University according to their physician's assessments. The subjects in the intervention group received various Chinese herbs depending on their conventional treatment. Endometrial thickness, number of acquired eggs, and rates of normal fertility, high-quality embryos, biochemical and clinical pregnancy of subjects were assessed in both groups. ResultsThe high-quality embryo rate of 51.9%, biochemical pregnancy rate of 51.0%, clinical pregnancy rate of 44.2% and endometrial thickness of (10.84±1.75) mm in the intervention group were all significantly higher than those in the control group [48.7%, 38.9%, 34.8%, and (10.52±1.50) mm, respectively; P<0.05]. The normal fertility rate of 58.5% in the Chinese herb group was also significantly superior to the 54.7% achieved in the control group (P< 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences (P>0.05) in the average number of acquired eggs within a single cycle, incidence of excessive stimulation of ovary, rates of embryo transplantation or early abortion and birth of living babies between the two groups. ConclusionOur findings indicate that Chinese herbs increase endometrial thickness, improve the quality of fertility and embryo, and promote embryonic nidation, thus enhancing the success rate of in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transplantation cycle. Using Chinese herbs improves the outcomes and safety of assisted reproductive technologies.

Clinical research on treating fracture of middle and lower 1/3 of tibiofibula by electroacupuncture

ObjectiveTo observe the differences in efficacy on treatment of fractures of the middle and lower 1/3 of the tibiofibula between cribriform splints plus electroacupuncture, warming needle and moxibustion only, and external fixation with traditional splints plus the administration of an herbal formula. Clinical efficacy and the effects on serum bone morphogenic protein −7 (BMP-7) and endothelin −1 (ET-1) were both measured. Method600 patients with fractures of the middle and lower 1/3 of the tibiofibula were randomly divided into three groups according to andome number table: splint with electroacupuncture (group A), warm needling moxibustion group (group B) and splint with traditional Chinese medicine herb (Group C). Cribriform splints with electroacupuncture were used in group A, warming needling therapy were adopted in group B, and traditional splints with external fixation were used along with oral administration of musk bone capsules (▪) in group C. Clinical results for the three groups were compared, and ELISA method was used to detect the serum BMP-7 and ET-1 of patients in the three groups before and after treatment. ResultsGroup A was better than group B and group C in terms of clinical healing days and delayed healing status (P<0.05). After treatment, group A was also better than the other two groups in the improvement of BMP-7 and ET-1 (P<0.05). ConclusionElectroacupuncture treatment with cribriform splints for fractures of the middle and lower 1/3 of the tibiofibula resulted in significantly shorter clinical healing time, and lower incidence of delayed healing compared to warm needling or splints with a traditional Chinese herbal formula. Its mechanism may be associated with greater regulation of serum BMP-7 and ET-1 through electroacupuncture.

Effect of Sini decoction on function of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in patients with sepsis

To investigate the effects of Sini decoction on function of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in patients with sepsis. A prospective single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. 60 septic patients were divided into three groups with the method of random number table, 20 cases in the control group, 20 in the Chinese herb group, and 20 in corticoid group. All of them received routine treatment. Patients in Chinese herb group were given Sini decoction in addition (decoction of monkshood 15 g, dried ginger 15 g, honey-fried licorice 10 g) 100 mL/d orally or by nasal feeding, while patients in corticoid group were given hydrocortisone 200 mg/d intravenously instead, both for 7 days. Before the treatment, 3 days and 14 days after treatment, blood was collected to determine the levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol, and the result of ACTH stimulating test was observed. At the same time, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHEII) score was recorded, and 3-day shock recovery rate and 28-day death rate were also compared among these groups. None of the three groups showed different result in ACTH stimulating test (χ(2)=1.101, P=0.605). ACTH in three groups was gradually decreased. Compared with that before treatment, ACTH in Chinese herb group and corticoid groups began to decrease obviously on day 3 (29.90±3.31 ng/L vs. 33.10±3.31 ng/L, 28.20±2.45 ng/L vs. 33.30±3.84 ng/L, both P<0.01), while in control group declined ACTH appeared later (on day 14) compared with before treatment (29.40±5.63 ng/L vs. 33.50±4.89 ng/L, P<0.05). No obvious difference in ACTH level was showed between the Chinese herb group and the cortical group (both P>0.05). Cortisol level in both Chinese herb and cortical groups showed a raise-fall biphase trend while there was no change in the control. The cortical levels on day 3 in Chinese herb and cortical groups were much higher than that before treatment (343.04±31.20 μg/L vs. 294.70±42.10 μg/L, 331.25±42.80 μg/L vs. 280.36±38.10 μg/L, both P<0.01) and that of control group (291.61±41.50 μg/L, both P<0.01), though no significant statistical difference was observed between two groups (both P>0.05). APACHEII score on day 14 in control, Chinese herb and cortical groups was significantly lower than that before treatment (16.8±5.1 vs. 20.1±4.3, 13.4±3.2 vs. 18.3±3.8,15.1±2.5 vs. 19.5±4.0, all P<0.01), and the score was much lower in Chinese herb group comparing with that of control group (P<0.05). No statistical difference was observed among control, Chinese herb and cortical groups in lowering 28-day death rate [35.0% (7/20), 25.0% (5/20), 20.0% (4/20)] and improving 3-day shock recovery rate [40.0% (8/20), 70.0% (14/20), 60.0% (12/20), all P>0.05]. Sini decoction could elevate cortisol while lower ACTH at the early stage of sepsis. Sini decoction could also effectively improve symptoms and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function in septic patients without affecting death rate.

Influence of Jianpizhidong decoction on the behavioral record an bilateral striatal amino acid neurotransmitters in mice with Tourette syndrome disease

Objective To study the influences of Jianpizhidong decoction(JPZDD) on bilateral striatal amino acid neurotransmitters in mice with Tourette Syndrome(TS) disease and discuss the mechanism of JPZDD. Methods Thirty mice were injected 3, 3-iminodipropionitrile (IDPN) with 350 mg·kg-1 once a day for 7 consecutive days except ten mice of the blank control group which were injected with saline. TS mice were randomly divided into three groups: TS model group, JPZDD group(the Chinese herbal group), Tiapride group(the western medicine group). The TS model group and the blank control group were gavaged with saline(0.9%)at 20 ml·Kg-1, the Tiapride group with Tiapride at 50 mg·kg-1, and JPZDD group with JPZDD at 20 g·kg-1, respectively, once a day for six weeks .Then behavioral recordings were conducted , and the content of glumatic acid(Glu) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)in the bilateral striatum of the mice were detected by using HPLC. Results Behavioral recording indicated that there were significant differences in the Chinese herbal group and the Tiapride group before(1.90±1.80, 2.05±1.40) and after(1.15±1.67, 1.00±1.08) treatment(P 0.05). The ratio of Glu and GABA were lower in the JPZDD, the Tiapride and the model groups than that in the blank control group, but there were no statistical differences between these groups(P>0.05). Conclusion JPZDD can regulate the content of Glu and GABA in the striatum, and keep the dynamic equilibrium, which might be its pharmacodynamic mechanisms for treating TS. Key words: Jianpizhidong decoction; TS model; Glu; GABA; Striatum; Mice

Effect of Yiqiyangyin recipe on heparanase and nephrin in rats with adriamycin-induced nephropathy

ObjectiveTo discuss the mechanism of Yiqiyangyin recipe in rats with adriamycin (ADR)-induced nephropathy. MethodsWe randomly divided 30 Sprague-Dawley rats into 5 groups: control, model, glucocorticoid, Chinese herb, and Chinese herb plus glucocorticoid groups. The 24-h urine volume was collected on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 after ADR injection, and all rats were killed on day 28. We measured the 24-h levels of urinary protein, serum cholesterol, and serum triglycerides, and renal function of all rats by using routine biochemical methods. Pathological changes in the rat kidneys were observed under light and electron microscopes. Heparanase (HPA) mRNA expression levels were measured using real-time fluorescence-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Urine levels of HPA in all groups were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of nephrin was detected by immunohistochemical staining and quantitatively analyzed using Motic image analysis 3.2 software. ResultsThe levels of urinary protein and serum triglycerides and cholesterol in rats with ADR-induced nephropathy increased on day 14. The serum albumin levels simultaneously decreased. All the changes reached the peak on day 28. Examination under the light microscope showed inflammatory cells and slight fibroplasia in the renal interstitium in the model group, but fewer inflammatory cells were observed in the intervention groups than those in the model group. Examination under the electron microscope showed extensive fusion of foot processes in ADR rats. HPA mRNA expression was higher in the model group than that in the control group. The HPA mRNA levels in the intervention groups, especially in the Chinese herb group, and Chinese herb plus glucocorticoid group were significantly lower than the level in the model group. The HPA expression levels correlated significantly with the proteinuria level. No significant difference was found in the HPA level in urine between the intervention groups and the model group, whereas the model group had a higher urinary HPA level than the control group. Nephrin mRNA expression levels in the model group were higher than those in the control group. Nephrin mRNA expression levels were significantly lower in the intervention groups than that in the model group, especially the Chinese herb plus glucocorticoid group. Compared with the control group, the model group showed increased nephrin expression in the kidney. Nephrin levels in the other groups, especially in the Chinese herb plus glucocorticoid group, were significantly lower than that in the model group. The nephrin levels in the kidney were negatively correlated with the proteinuria level. ConclusionYiqiyangyin recipe could attenuate foot process injury particularly in combination with a steroid reduce the development of proteinuria possibly by inhibition of HPA in the kidney, and regulate the expression of nephrin in rats with ADR-induced nephropathy. Our study showed that treatment with Yiqiyangyin recipe plus glucocorticoid was better than a singular intervention, and we explored the pharmacological mechanism of this combination by biochemical and molecular biological analysis to provide a basis for clinical application.

Effects of added therapy with Chinese herbal medicine Kanli Granule on skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with chronic heart failure

The pathological changes of skeletal muscle dysfunction in chronic heart failure (CHF) have caused widespread concern, and evaluating the functional properties of medication to improve these pathological changes has become a common area of study for clinicians. To investigate the characteristics of skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with CHF and the effects of Kanli Granule, a compound traditional Chinese herbal medicine, on the skeletal muscle dysfunction based on Western medical treatment in patients with CHF. All patients with CHF enrolled in this study were outpatients or inpatients in Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from December 2005 to December 2007. The patients were divided into Western medicine group (treatment with Western medicine) and Chinese herbs group (treatment with Kanli Granule based on Western medicine) based on their preference. The treatment course lasted for 12 weeks. The grip strength, grasp times, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), estimated heart rate, peripheral blood lactate levels and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzyme activity in patients were measured. A total of 92 patients were recruited and 12 patients withdrew from the Western medicine group, therefore a total of 80 patients were included in the follow-up study. There were 46 cases in the Chinese herbs group and 34 cases in the Western medicine group. After treatment, grip strength and grasp times increased significantly compared with before treatment. RPE score and estimated heart rate significantly decreased in the two groups, showing greater changes in the Chinese herbs group than the Western medicine group (P<0.01). Peripheral blood lactate levels of the CHF patients in a resting state decreased, and the Chinese herbs group displayed a greater decrease than the Western medicine group (P<0.05); lactate levels 3 min after exercise decreased after treatment in both treatment groups, but no significant difference was found compared with before treatment; LDH1 levels in the two treatment groups were decreased compared with before treatment but showed no statistically significant changes; LDH5 levels in the two treatment groups increased after treatment, and an obvious difference was found in the Chinese herbs group (P<0.01). Treatment with the addition of Kanli Granule can significantly improve the function of skeletal muscle in patients with CHF by improving skeletal muscle energy metabolism.

Clinical observation on pricking at Sìfèng ( EX-UE 10) combined with Chinese herbs for infantile malnutrition

ObjectiveTo explore the best clinical treatment for infantile malnutrition. MethodsThree hundred and forty-three patients were randomly divided into a pricking at Sìfèng (▪ EX-UE 10) group (priking group, n=105), a Chinese herbs group (n=85) and a pricking and Chinese herbs group (n=153). The improvements of the clinical symptoms of all three groups were evaluated after the treatment. ResultsThe results of these treatments for all the patients were satisfying. The effective rate of the pricking and Chinese herbs group, which was 98.7 % (151/153), was superior to that of 94.3 % (99/105) (P<0.05) in the pricking group and 91.8% (78/85) in the Chinese herbs group (P<0.01), while no differences in effective rate were found between the pricking group and the Chinese herbs group (P>0.05). ConclusionThe pricking at Sìfèng (▪ EX-UE 10) combined with Chinese herbs is the best treatment for infantile malnutrition.

Efficacy of Transcatheter Arterial Infusion Alone or Combined with Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization on Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Objective: Interventional therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still controversial. This retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of transcatheter arterial infusion (TAI) alone or combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) on advanced HCC. Methods: The study population consisted of 132 advanced HCC patients with Child-pugh A/B. Tumor in all patients was involved with main trunk of portal vein and/or inferior vena cava, or local lymph node metastasis, or distant metastasis. TAI alone or combined with TACE were performed in 65 patients with advanced HCC (interventional treatment group), 67 patients were treated with traditional Chinese herbal drug (Chinese herb group). The prime end point was overall survival (OS), and prognostic factors were analysed. Results: The median OS was 205 days [95% confidence interval (CI), 155-255 days] in interventional treatment group and 127 days (95% CI, 70-184 days) in Chinese herb group (P <0.05). The 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year OS rates were 58.9%, 29.1%, 7.7% in interventional treatment group, and 33.3%, 12.3%, 1.8% in Chinese herb group. The portal vein thrombosis, ECOG performance status were independent prognostic factors for OS. Conclusion: Interventional treatment could greatly prolong the OS of advanced HCC patients.

Acupuncture and herbs combined with genouillere and functional exercise in treatment for the elder patients with knee osteoarthritis

Objective To observe the curative effect of different treatments on genual osteoarthritis. Methods The 100 cases were randomly divided into two groups according to the comprehensive evaluation: acupuncture plus Chinese herbs group ,acupuncture and Chinese herbs plus genouillere and functional exercise group. Results The evaluated score of Lysholm in knee was mostly higher in acupuncture and Chinese herbs plus genouillere and functional exercise group than that in the acupuncture plus Chinese herbs group (P<0.01). Conclusion Acupuncture and herbs plus genouillere and functional exercise maybe the ideal effective method of non-operation treatment in knee osteoarthritis. Key words: Acupuncture; Chinese herbs; Genouillere; Functional exercise; Osteoarthritis of knee; The elderly