Practice Of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Articles

Exploring the transformative impact of traditional Chinese medicine on depression: Insights from animal models.

Depression, a prevalent and complex mental health condition, presents a significant global health burden. Depression is one of the most frequent mental disorders; deaths from it account for 14.3% of people worldwide. In recent years, the integration of complementary and alternative medicine, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has gained attention as a potential avenue for addressing depression. This comprehensive review critically assesses the efficacy of TCM interventions in alleviating depressive symptoms. An in-depth look at different research studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses is used in this review to look into how TCM practices like herbal formulations, acupuncture, and mind-body practices work. The review looks at the quality of the evidence, the rigor of the methods, and any possible flaws in the current studies. This gives us an idea of where TCM stands right now in terms of treating depression. This comprehensive review aims to assess the efficacy of TCM interventions in alleviating depressive symptoms. In order to learn more about their possible healing effects, the study also looks into how different types of TCM work, such as herbal formulas, acupuncture, and mind-body practices.

Wighteone, a prenylated flavonoid from licorice, inhibits growth of SW480 colorectal cancer cells by allosteric inhibition of Akt

Ethnopharmacological relevanceLicorice is a frequently used herbal medicine worldwide, and is used to treat cough, hepatitis, cancer and influenza in clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Modern pharmacological studies indicate that prenylated flavonoids play an important role in the anti-tumor activity of licorice, especially the tumors in stomach, lung, colon and liver. Wighteone is one of the main prenylated flavonoids in licorice, and its possible effect and target against colorectal cancer have not been investigated. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to investigate the anti-colorectal cancer effect and underlying mechanism of wighteone. Materials and methodsSW480 human colorectal cancer cells were used to evaluate the in vitro anti-colorectal cancer activity and Akt regulation effect of wighteone by flow cytometry, phosphoproteomic and Western blot analysis. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay, molecular docking and dynamics simulation, and kinase activity assay were used to investigate the direct interaction between wighteone and Akt. A nude mouse xenograft model with SW480 cells was used to verify the in vivo anti-colorectal cancer activity of wighteone. ResultsWighteone inhibited phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream kinases in SW480 cells, which led to a reduction in cell viability. Wighteone had direct interaction with both PH and kinase domains of Akt, which locked Akt in a “closed” conformation with allosteric inhibition, and Gln79, Tyr272, Arg273 and Lys297 played the most critical role due to their hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interactions with wighteone. Based on Akt overexpression or activation in SW480 cells, further mechanistic studies suggested that wighteone-induced Akt inhibition led to cycle arrest, apoptosis and autophagic death of SW480 cells. Moreover, wighteone exerted in vivo anti-colorectal cancer effect and Akt inhibition activity in the nude mouse xenograft model. ConclusionWighteone could inhibit growth of SW480 cells through allosteric inhibition of Akt, which led to cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and autophagic death. The results contributed to understanding of the anti-tumor mechanism of licorice, and also provided a rationale to design novel Akt allosteric inhibitors for the treatment of colorectal cancer.

Integrated Skin Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology to Explore the Mechanisms of Goupi Plaster for Treating Knee Osteoarthritis

Background and AimGoupi Plaster (GP) is topical traditional Chinese medicine preparation. It has been used to treat Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) in clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the mechanisms of GP relieve KOA are poorly understood. Experimental procedureRabbit models of KOA were established and treated with GP. Knee cartilage pathology was analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, while plasma levels of inflammatory factors (interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and IL-17) and skin neurotransmitters (calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), and5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)) were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Metabolomics based on GC-TOF-MS analysis screened for skin biomarkers as well as relevant pathways. Network pharmacology screened for relevant skin targets as well as relevant pathways, and finally, MetScape software was utilized to integrate the results of metabolomics and network pharmacology to screen for key skin targets, key metabolites, and key pathways for GP treatment of KOA. Results and ConclusionGP administration substantially repaired cartilage surface breaks in KOA and led to relatively intact cartilage structure and normal cell morphology. GP decreased plasma levels of IL-6 and IL-17 and skin levels of CGRP, SP and 5-HT while increased plasma IL-4. GP administration normalized the levels of 15 metabolites which were changed in KOA. Network pharmacology analysis identified 181 targets. Finally, 3 key targets, 5 key metabolites and 3 related pathways were identified, which suggested that GP improved skin barrier function and skin permeability by regulating skin lipid metabolism. GP treatment also regulated skin amino acid levels and subsequently affected neurotransmitters and signaling molecules. In addition, the purinergic signaling pathway was also involved in the treatment of GP against KOA.In conclusion, GP treatment is associated with changes in skin lipid metabolism, neurotransmitters, and the purinergic signaling pathway.

Zishen Qingre Lishi Huayu recipe promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of GCs of PCOS via KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceZishen Qingre Lishi Huayu recipe (ZQLHR) is a herbal recipe created on the basis on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine and clinical practice, and is mainly used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the underlying mechanism for this fact has not been clearly elucidated. Aim of the studyTo verify whether ZQLHR regulates granulosa cells (GCs) proliferation and apoptosis through the Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) - CCATT enhancer-binding proteinβ (C/EBPβ) pathway, and to provide in vitro molecular mechanism supporting for the effects of ZQLHR to enhance follicular development and treat patients with PCOS. Materials and methodsBased on previous experiments, we performed the following experiments. Firstly, we treated KGN cells (a steroidogenic human granulosa-like tumor cell line) for 48 h using different concentrations of ZQLHR in order to observe apoptosis in each group. Secondly, the mRNA and protein expression levels of KLF4 and C/EBPβ in KGN cells after administrated with ZQLHR were examined by quantitative real-time PCR(q-PCR) and Western blot assay. Thirdly, after knocking down KLF4 and C/EBPβ using siRNAs, the relationship between KLF4 and C/EBPβ in KGN cells was detected. Further, cell counting kit-8 assay, colony formation assay and flow cytometry were used to verify whether ZQLHR promotes proliferation and facilitates apoptosis in KGN cells through the KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway. Finally, q-PCR and Western blot were used to test whether ZQLHR mediated proliferation and apoptosis-related factors such as B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (BAX), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and cleaved caspase-3 to affect the proliferation and apoptosis of KGN cells through the KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway. ConclusionsZQLHR, containing 0.2% by volume, administered to KGN cells resulted in the lowest rate of apoptosis. The expression levels of KLF4 and C/EBPβ were increased in KGN cells following ZQLHR treatment. Additionally, ZQLHR promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of KGN cells by modulating proliferation and apoptosis-related factors via the KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway. Furthermore, we confirmed that KLF4 and C/EBPβ regulate each other in KGN cells. These findings indicate that ZQLHR enhances the proliferation of GCs and suppresses their apoptosis, which constitutes a therapeutic mechanism for treating patients with PCOS.

Antidiabetic effect of the mixture of Cissus polyantha and Rytigynia senegalensis in high-fat diet and streptozocin-induced diabetic rats

BackgroundIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices, many plants of the Cissus and Rytigynia genera are used to treat many diseases including diabetes mellitus.The aim of this study was to evaluate the modulating effects of the mixture of the aqueous extracts of Cissus polyantha and Rytiginia senegalensis (CPRS) on some enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism, oxidative profile, and cardiovascular parameters in diabetic rats. MethodsDiabetes was induced by a diet enriched in high-fat for 30 days associated with a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (35 mg/kg). Rats with a blood glucose level greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL were selected and divided into groups. Groups 1 and 2 received distilled water. Group 3 received metformin (40 mg/kg). Groups 4 and 5 received CPRS at doses of 50 and 111 mg/kg, respectively. Glycaemia, body mass, food and water intake, insulinemia, insulin resistance and insulin secretion indices, lipid profile and cardiovascular risk indices, oxidant profile, glycogen and liver enzymes were evaluated. Histology of the pancreas and heart was performed. ResultsCPRS (50 and/or 111 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) reduced water and food consumption, blood glucose, HOMA-IR, coronary risk index, cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and malondialdehyde levels, as well as glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-biphosphatase activities in diabetic animals. In contrast, CPRS (50 and/or 111 mg/kg) caused an increase (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) in body mass, insulinemia and HDL-c levels, reduced glutathione and hepatic glycogen. HOMA-β, insulin distribution, atherogenic and cardioprotective indices as well as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glucokinase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities were also increased after CPRS administration. CPRS regenerated pancreatic islet β cells and decreased leukocyte infiltration in cardiomyocytes of diseased animals. ConclusionCPRS has hypoglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and antioxidant effects, thus validating its use in traditional medicine in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its complications.

Durable triboelectric nanogenerator on coiled head of acupuncture needle

Integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques with modern technologies has paved the way for innovative advancements in various fields. In this research, we explore the fascinating fusion of acupuncture, a well-established TCM practice, with the triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG), an emerging energy harvesting technology. We present a groundbreaking approach where the coiled head of acupuncture needles is transformed into a multifunctional sensor capable of harnessing mechanical energy through the triboelectric effect. Our approach entails designing and fabricating a TENG sensor on the coiled head of an acupuncture needle. A triboelectric layer of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) infused with 2% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), an insulating layer, and a copper conductive layer comprise the sensor. This integration allows mechanical energy generated during the acupuncture process to be converted into electrical energy for direct application in electroacupuncture. The sensor is highly compressible, durable, and sensitive to mechanical stimuli. Through meticulous experimentation, we demonstrate the mechanical stimulation triggers the TENG sensor to generate electrical power, thus allowing for self-powered electroacupuncture systems. We have also demonstrated the real time mimicking to acupuncture data to show the sensors’ adaptability. This dual functionality may enhance the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture while also providing self-sustaining energy for the treatment process. This research bridges the ancient wisdom of TCM with the latest innovations in energy harvesting, opening new avenues for interdisciplinary collaborations between traditional practices and modern technologies.

Ethical Considerations in the Use of Endangered Species for Traditional Chinese Medicine Practices: A Case Study of the Pangolin

This comprehensive paper delves into the multifaceted ethical quandaries engendered by the incorporation of endangered species within the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spotlighting the pangolin as a pivotal case study. TCM, with its deep-rooted cultural and historical significance, has been a cornerstone of holistic health and healing practices for millennia. However, contemporary practices involving the use of endangered species, such as pangolins, for their perceived medicinal properties, have ignited a complex debate surrounding the sustainability and ethicality of such traditions. This investigation thoroughly assesses the conservation plight of pangolins, critically analyzing the existing legal frameworks designed to safeguard these creatures, alongside a meticulous examination of the ethical ramifications stemming from their utilization in TCM formulations. Through a nuanced exploration of these dimensions, this research not only highlights the pressing need for heightened conservation efforts but also scrutinizes the ethical considerations that must be reconciled within the context of TCM’s enduring legacy. By advocating for the adoption of sustainable and ethical alternatives, this paper endeavors to forge a harmonious balance between the venerable traditions of TCM and the imperative of biodiversity conservation. In doing so, it seeks to catalyze a paradigm shift towards more responsible and conscientious medicinal practices that honor both the rich heritage of TCM and the intrinsic value of the natural world.

The Making of a Health Profession: How Chinese Medicine Became a Nationally Registered Allied Health Profession in Australia

Abstract In 2012, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners in Australia became nationally-registered allied health professionals in three categories: acupuncturist, Chinese herbal medicine practitioner, and Chinese herbal medicine dispenser. Australia was the first Western country to introduce national registration for Chinese medicine, followed by Portugal and, recently, New Zealand. The practice of TCM in Australia can be traced back to the beginning of Chinese immigration to Australia during the Victorian Gold Rush which began in the 1850s. The process which led to national registration commenced in the early 1970s with the establishment of the first acupuncture courses. Decades of gradual development of courses from unaccredited part-time diplomas to accredited bachelor degrees, and the development, by the profession, of national consensus on educational standards were essential elements in the process which led to registration. Professional associations, such as the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association Ltd. (AACMA), also developed a framework of professional self-regulation, including Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, ongoing professional development requirements and Infection Control Guidelines, and provided leadership in the development of the profession. After decades of tribalism and division within the TCM profession, the National Academic Standards Committee brought almost all stakeholders together to reach a consensus on the Australian Guidelines for Traditional Chinese Medicine Education which were published by AACMA in 2001. Professional associations also collaborated on joint submissions to the government in support of registration, which was introduced first in the state of Victoria in 2000, and subsequently became national in 2012. Despite national registration, some barriers still remain, and professional associations continue to lobby the federal government for inclusion in Medicare, chronic disease management scheme, and Veterans Affairs.

Research progress in pharmacological effects of Gypsum Fibrosum and material basis for its heat-clearing effect

Gypsum Fibrosum, as a classic heat-clearing medicine, is widely used in the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM). However, debates exist about the material basis and mechanism of its efficacy. Therefore, this paper reviewed the recent research progress in the heat-clearing effect and mechanism of Gypsum Fibrosum and discussed the material basis for the heat-clearing effect of this medicine. Ca~(2+) may inhibit the upward movement of temperature set point by regulating the Na~+/Ca~(2+) level in the heat-regulating center. Moreover, trace elements may inhibit the rise of body temperature by regulating the immune system, promoting the absorption of Ca~(2+), and affecting the synthesis of prostaglandin E2(PGE2). This review aims to enrich the knowledge about the mechanism of Gypsum Fibrosum in clearing heat and provides a scientific basis for the clinical application and further development of Gypsum Fibrosum.

Opportunities and challenges of traditional Chinese medicine doctors in the era of artificial intelligence.

With the exponential advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the realm of medicine is experiencing a paradigm shift, engendering a multitude of prospects and trials for healthcare practitioners, encompassing those devoted to the practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This study explores the evolving landscape for TCM practitioners in the AI era, emphasizing that while AI can be helpful, it cannot replace the role of TCM practitioners. It is paramount to underscore the intrinsic worth of human expertise, accentuating that artificial intelligence (AI) is merely an instrument. On the one hand, AI-enabled tools like intelligent symptom checkers, diagnostic assistance systems, and personalized treatment plans can augment TCM practitioners' expertise and capacity, improving diagnosis accuracy and treatment efficacy. AI-empowered collaborations between Western medicine and TCM can strengthen holistic care. On the other hand, AI may disrupt conventional TCM workflow and doctor-patient relationships. Maintaining the humanistic spirit of TCM while embracing AI requires upholding professional ethics and establishing appropriate regulations. To leverage AI while retaining the essence of TCM, practitioners need to hone holistic analytical skills and see AI as complementary. By highlighting promising applications and potential risks of AI in TCM, this study provides strategic insights for stakeholders to promote the integrated development of AI and TCM for better patient outcomes. With proper implementation, AI can become a valuable assistant for TCM practitioners to elevate healthcare quality.

Niuhuang Qingxin Wan ameliorates depressive-like behaviors and improves hippocampal neurogenesis through modulating TrkB/ERK/CREB signaling pathway in chronic restraint stress or corticosterone challenge mice.

Introduction: Chronic stress-associated hormonal imbalance impairs hippocampal neurogenesis, contributing to depressive and anxiety behaviors. Targeting neurogenesis is thus a promising antidepressant therapeutic strategy. Niuhuang Qingxin Wan (NHQXW) is an herbal formula for mental disorders in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice, but its anti-depressant efficacies and mechanisms remain unverified. Methods: In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that NHQXW could ameliorate depressive-like behaviors and improve hippocampal neurogenesis by modulating the TrkB/ERK/CREB signaling pathway by utilizing two depression mouse models including a chronic restraint stress (CRS) mouse model and a chronic corticosterone (CORT) stress (CCS) induced mouse model. The depression-like mouse models were orally treated with NHQXW whereas fluoxetine was used as the positive control group. We evaluated the effects of NHQXW on depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors and determined the effects of NHQXW on inducing hippocampal neurogenesis. Results: NHQXW treatment significantly ameliorated depressive-like behaviors in those chronic stress mouse models. NHQXW significantly improved hippocampal neurogenesis in the CRS mice and CCS mice. The potential neurogenic mechanism of NHQXW was identified by regulating the expression levels of BDNF, TrkB, p-ERK (T202/T204), p-MEK1/2 (S217/221), and p-CREB (S133) in the hippocampus area of the CCS mice. NHQXW revealed its antidepressant and neurogenic effects that were similar to fluoxetine. Moreover, NHQXW treatment revealed long-term effects on preventing withdrawal-associated rebound symptoms in the CCS mice. Furthermore, in a bioactivity-guided quality control study, liquiritin was identified as one of the bioactive compounds of NHQXW with the bioactivities of neurogenesis-promoting effects. Discussion: Taken together, NHQXW could be a promising TCM formula to attenuate depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors against chronic stress and depression. The underlying anti-depressant mechanisms could be correlated with its neurogenic activities by stimulating the TrkB/ERK/CREB signaling pathway.

Review and prospect of traditional Chinese medicine in treatment of trauma based on bibliometrics

This study aims to summarize the research hotspots and trends in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) treatment of trauma and provide suggestions for collaborative research on the treatment of trauma with integrated Chinese and western medicine. The re-levant research articles on TCM treatment of trauma were searched against CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, Web of Science, and PubMed from inception to December 31, 2022 and analyzed using bibliometric. After screening, 315 articles in Chinese and 34 articles in English were included. The articles were mainly published by TCM journals. The core author groups were absent. The author affiliations were dominated by medical institutions and supplemented by universities, research institutions, and government agencies. The research mainly focused on the clinical practice and trials of TCM in trauma treatment. Although the TCM treatment of trauma emerged early, it is still in the initial stage of development. The future research can focus on innovating the service model of trauma treatment, improving clinical research capability, improving medical quality management, and strengthening the TCM talent teams in comprehensive hospitals. Western medicine is precise and effective in the treatment of trauma, while TCM with unique treatment methods and effects can play a complementary role. Therefore, the trauma treatment with integrated Chinese and western medicine demonstrates a promising prospect.

Exploration on Standardization of Clinical Research Data in a Clinical Trial Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) products and practices are widely used worldwide with increasing popularity. The number of TCM clinical trials has increased significantly in the past two decades. There is an urgent need to standardize TCM data and terminology for use in clinical studies. It will ensure data quality, improve the efficiency and expedite scientific communications in TCM. This paper illustrates our exploration processes in the application and development of the data standards in TCM clinical trials. We hope these explorations will help TCM data exchange, sharing, and aggregation which will ultimately accelerate the launch of TCM products and bring benefits to people.

Analysis of Differences in the Chemical Composition of Glycosides and Sugars between Four Forms of Fresh Rehmanniae Radix.

Fresh Rehmanniae Radix, as well as its processed products, are widely used in the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine. It is mainly available in four forms: fresh Rehmanniae Radix, raw Rehmanniae Radix, prepared Rehmanniae Radix, and nine-steamed, nine-dried Rehmanniae Radix. Pharmacological studies have shown that all Rehmanniae Radix forms contain iridoid glycosides and sugar compounds with various effects, including hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunological enhancement, and bone marrow hematopoiesis-promoting activities. Differences in the efficacy among these Rehmanniae Radix forms and their processed products have been attributed to variations in their chemical compositions, particularly in iridoid glycosides and sugar compounds; however, the specific compositional differences in glycosides and sugars among the four forms of Rehmanniae Radix have not been clarified. Therefore, this study aims to qualitatively characterize the iridoid glycosides and sugar compounds in fresh Rehmanniae Radix, raw Rehmanniae Radix, prepared Rehmanniae Radix, and nine-steamed, nine-dried Rehmanniae Radix.

Practice and principle of traditional Chinese medicine for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has played an important role in the prevention and treatment of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic in China. The integration of Chinese and Western medicine is an important feature of Chinese COVID-19 prevention and treatment. According to a series of evidence-based studies, TCM can reduce the infection rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in high-risk groups. For patients with mild and moderate forms of COVID-19, TCM can relieve the related signs and symptoms, shorten the period of nucleic-acid negative conversion, and reduce conversion rate to the severe form of the disease. For COVID-19 patients with severe and critical illnesses, TCM can improve inflammatory indicators and blood oxygen saturation, shorten the hospital stay, and reduce the mortality rate. During recovery, TCM can improve patients' symptoms, promote organ function recovery, boost the quality of patients' life, and reduce the nucleic-acid repositive conversion rate. A series of mechanism research studies revealed that capability of TCM to treat COVID-19 through antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, immune regulation, and protection of organ function via a multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway approach.

Origin of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cuba in the 19th Century from Its Main Exponents and Some Notable Medical Descendants in the 20th Century

The Cuban people are made up of three major migratory currents, the Chinese are one of them. They brought their culture, the methods, and procedures of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the 19th century. Few were able to return and so they created families in Cuba; some of their descendants dedicated themselves to medicine. In order to investigate the practices that were predecessors of TCM in Cuba in the 19th century, a qualitative phenomenological research was carried out, reviewing what was published by various sources, applying documentary analysis, logical historical analysis, abstraction, synthesis, and systematization of the results on the regularities of the work and human behavior of Chinese doctors in the Cuban 19th and 20th centuries. This made it possible to identify six Chinese doctors in the 19th century in Cuba who gave rise to the beginning of some practices of TCM in Cuba, and five from the 20th century, descendants of coolies who dedicated themselves to other specialties of medicine. It was found that despite their geographical and time disperse, they were all notorious for their outstanding professional and human behavior, with a trail of accumulated successes in achieving “almost the impossible” with the patient. They have left their mark on Cuban culture.

Unveiling the Factors behind the Lack of Human Anatomy Knowledge in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic approach to healthcare that has been practiced for thousands of years. TCM offers effective treatments for a wide range of health conditions. However, in comparison to modern medicine, TCM places less emphasis on human anatomy in its diagnostic and treatment practices and has not developed a comprehensive system of human anatomy. By delving into the history, traditions, religion, and practice of TCM, the factors that have limited the development of human anatomy in TCM are identified. Firstly, reverence for tradition and religion may have suppressed motivation for advancement in this area. Secondly, the subjective nature of diagnosis and evaluating treatment outcomes in TCM reduces the necessity of studying human anatomy. Thirdly, the traditional education system in China had hindered the integration of human anatomy into TCM. Finally, cultural perspectives that prioritize the body as an integrated whole have also influenced the development of TCM. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the unique perspectives and values associated with TCM. Bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science will allow TCM to evolve while retaining its core principles. The integration of human anatomy into TCM will rejuvenate the whole research field by providing new insights into the mechanisms of TCM and maximize its potential in treating a wider range of diseases. TCM has made tremendous contributions to human health in the past and will continue to do so in the present and future.

Moluodan promotes DSS-induced intestinal inflammation involving the reprogram of macrophage function and polarization

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMoluodan (MLD) is a traditional Chinese medicine that is composed of 18 herbal medicines based on traditional Chinese medicine theory and practice. It has long been used in treating chronic gastritis and its components were traditionally used in dealing with intestinal inflammation. However, its specific pharmacological mechanism is still unclear. Aim of the studyThe upper and lower digestive tract diseases are correlated. In clinical practice, some chronic gastritis patients are also accompanied by intestinal inflammation. Due to the unclear pharmacological mechanism of MLD and its effect on intestinal inflammation, there is doubt whether MLD is still suitable for this type of patient. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of MLD and identify its effect in the mouse model of intestinal inflammation. Materials and methodsMice intestinal inflammation model was induced by 2.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The mice were given different concentrations of MLD via oral gavage (0.25, 0.5 g/kg b.w.). Pharmacodynamic indicators were assessed including body weight, colon length, disease activity index (DAI), bloody stool score, inflammatory factors, histological change, etc. RAW264.7 macrophage cells were used for in vitro experiments that illuminated the role of MLD in reprogramming macrophage function and polarization. RT-qPCR and western blots were performed to measure the mRNA and protein levels of macrophage polarization marker and effector molecules. The functions of polarized macrophages were tested using ROS detection probes, Edu assay and wound healing assay. ResultsThe administration of MLD exhibited obvious hemostatic effects, while unexpectedly accentuating various aspects of the DSS-induced intestinal inflammation in mice, including increased body weight loss and colon shortening, elevated disease activity index, and intensified colonic tissue damage. Additionally, MLD treatment induced more severe inflammatory cell infiltration and higher proinflammatory cytokines expression in colon tissue. Further results showed that MLD promoted M1 macrophage polarization and stimulated its proinflammatory cytokines expression, while only slightly affecting the function of M2 macrophage. Western blot analysis revealed that MLD induced the phosphorylation of AKT and NF-κB. The polarization of M1 macrophages induced by MLD was inhibited by either an Akt inhibitor or a NF-κB inhibitor. ConclusionsAlthough MLD has an obvious hemostatic effect, it generally promoted the severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice by facilitating macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype through the AKT/NF-κB pathway. Our study suggested that MLD may not be suitable for colitis, especially during the acute inflammation stage.

Research and development practice of traditional Chinese medicine based on network target theory and technology

Network targets theory and technology have transcended the limitations of the &quot;single gene, single target&quot; model, aiming to decipher the mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) based on biological network from the perspective of informatics and system. As the core of TCM network pharmacology, with the development of computer science and high-throughput experimental techniques, the network target theory and technology are beginning to exhibit a trend of organic integration with artificial intelligence technology and high-throughput multi-modal multi-omics experimental techniques. Taking the network target analysis of TCM like Yinqiao Qingre Tablets as a typical case, network target theory and technology have achieved the systematic construction, in-depth analysis, and high-throughput multi-modal multi-omics validation of multi-level biological networks spanning from traditional Chinese and Western phenotypes to tissues, cells, molecules, and traditional Chinese and Western medicines. This development helps to address critical issues in the analysis of mechanisms of TCM, including the discovery of key targets, identification of functional components, discovery of synergistic effects among compound ingredients, and elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms of formulae. It provides powerful theoretical and technological support for advancing clinical precision diagnosis and treatment, precise positioning of TCM, and precise research and development of TCM. Thus, a new paradigm of TCM research gradually emerges, combining big data and artificial intelligence(AI) with the integration of human experience and scientific evidence.

Growth of Chinese Medicine in Iran: Past, Present, and Prospects

In recent years, the international recognition of traditional Chinese medicine has continuously increased, and that medical practice has gradually become incorporated into the medical systems of many nations. As an important country in the Belt and Road Initiative, Iran has enormous potential for cooperation with China in medical and health care. High-level officials of the two countries attach great importance to cooperation in both areas. Despite the recent rapid development of traditional Chinese medicine in Iran, that medical practice still faces many problems; examples here are the lack of practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine as well as the paucity of comprehensive cooperation among herbal medicine factories, publishing houses, traditional medicine colleges, and universities in the two countries. The present study collected and analyzed materials related to the practice of traditional Chinese medicine in Iran; in that way, it made a deep examination of the current situation, problems, and development prospects regarding traditional Chinese medicine in Iran with the aim of providing ideas and references to promote the international development of that form of medicine. Following an analysis of the development trends of traditional Chinese medicine in Iran in recent years, it became evident that the prospects for such medicine in that country are extensive, and the practice has excellent potential.