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    Evaluation of the stability of droplets in emulsion using multisample analytical centrifugation
    Chunyan Xie, Feng Yue, Haoquan Yu, Canzhong Huang, Shaoqun Zeng
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 574-586.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.048
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    In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the stability of droplets in the emulsion during storage and distinguish the stability of different prescriptions. The multisample analytical centrifugation-LUMisizer was applied to evaluate the impact of freeze-thaw cycles on droplets, combined with droplet size parameters, zeta potential, and observation by cryo-transmission electronic microscopy. After freeze-thaw cycles, the droplets showed significant changes in characters, globule size distribution, and light transmission. After freeze-thaw cycles, the droplets were demulsified (oil droplets and creaming were observed). Formulations with different contents of propofol (10:1 and 20:1, m/v) showed significant differences in the behavior of the droplets. Droplets by accelerated destruction could be distinguished by LUMisizer, which could quickly identify the stability and effectively supplement the traditional methods, offering better quality control of droplets in the emulsion.

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    The in vitro antioxidant activities of the ethanol extract and its different polar fractions from Ephedra saxatilis Royle ex Florin in Tibet
    Han Wang, Fanglong Li, Aga Er-bu, Xiaoxia Liang, Geng Sang, Car Rangnanjia
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 478-486.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.041
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    In the present study, we aimed to investigate the in vitro antioxidant activity of the ethanol extract and its polar extracts from Ephedra saxatilis Royle ex Florin in Tibet. The chemical constituents were first screened by the preliminary phytochemical methods. The contents of total polyphenols and total flavonoids were identified by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and colorimetric method of the aluminum chloride method, respectively. Furthermore, their antioxidant activities were investigated by the DPPH method, ABTS method, hydroxyl radical scavenging, and reduction powder method. The preliminary phytochemical screening showed that the polyphenols, glycosides, flavonoids, and saponins existed in ethanol extract, and the chemical composition in different polar extracts varied, among which the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids were highest in the ethyl acetate part, followed by the dichloromethane part, exhibiting best antioxidant capacity. Both the ethyl acetate and dichloromethane parts from Ephedra saxatilis Royle ex Florin exhibited better antioxidant activities than BHT, which was associated with the high contents of polyphenols and flavonoids.

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    Cidofovir inhibits human adenovirus type 55 infection in vitro
    Wenbo Wang, Mengke Wang, Zonghai Hu, Jie Xiong, Yuan Liu
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 473-477.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.040
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    Human adenovirus type 55 (HAdV-55) can usually cause acute respiratory diseases. Unfortunately, there is no available specific antiviral drug. In the present study, 14 nucleotide analogs were screened for their anti-HAdV-55 activities in vitro. The results suggested that cidofovir could inhibit HAdV-55 infection in HEp-2 cells, providing strong evidence for further research on treating HAdV-55 infection.

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    Bergenin: a versatile and readily available precursor for bioactive modifications
    Suqian Cai, Kefeng Zhang, Xiaohua Cai
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 333-350.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.029
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    Bergenin, as a major bioactive ingredient of traditional Chinese medicine bergenia, can be found to be a significant component or a secondary metabolite in many families. Bergenin and its derivatives have aroused great interest because their unique bioactivities and pharmacological properties have been gradually disclosed over the past decades. A great number of bergenin derivatives have been synthesized, and their biological activities have been surveyed to achieve many satisfactory results in recent several years. These studies are beneficial in discovering and identifying novel candidates from bergenin derivatives as potential therapeutic drugs and help us understand their molecular targets and mechanisms of pharmacological action. This present work compiled scattered information on semisynthetic derivatives of bergenin and highlighted their recent advances in bioactive modifications.

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    Oyster peptide ameliorates hepatic fibrosis through the NF-κB/iNOS signaling pathway
    Kaixiang Deng, Jingzhou Peng, Meiquan Zhang, Huijuan Lin, Xiaohua Wang, Daoxing He, Junming Zhu, Mingguang Chen, Jin Huang
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 435-445.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.037
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    In the present study, we found that oyster peptide (OP) could ameliorate hepatic fibrosis through the NF-κB/iNOS signaling pathway. A total of 50 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups by the random digital table method: control group, model group, low-dose (0.5 g/kg) OP group, medium-dose (1.0 g/kg) OP group, and high-dose (2.0 g/kg) OP group, with 10 rats in each group. The rat model of hepatic fibrosis was established by subcutaneous injection of 50% carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). In OP therapy groups, the expressions of collagen I, collagen III, and TGF-β1 in the liver with CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis were significantly lower than those in the model group (P < 0.05). OP could down-regulate the expressions of NF-κB and iNOS in the liver tissue of rats with hepatic fibrosis. Collectively, OP ameliorated hepatic fibrosis, possibly through the NF-κB/iNOS signaling pathway.

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    Discussion on the potential target and mechanism of Dachaihu Decoction in treating hyperlipidemia based on network pharmacology
    Huan Yan, Jian Wang, Hao Fu, Min Yang, Miao Qu, Zhie Fang
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 446-459.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.038
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    To explore the potential targets and related signaling pathways of Dachaihu Decoction in treating hyperlipidemia, we obtained the active ingredients of the decoction by searching the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) for eight Chinese herbal ingredients, namely Radix Bupleuri, Radix Scutellariae, Radix Paeoniae Alba, Rhizoma Pinelliae, Fructus Aurantii Immaturus, Ginger, Jujube, and Rhubarb. To obtain the disease target for hyperlipidemia, we searched the English keyword “hyperlipidemia” and compared and analyzed the drug target of Dachaihu Decoction with the target of hyperlipidemia disease through an online website. We then identified the intersection between the two as the target of Dachaihu Decoction for treating hyperlipidemia. We conducted a topological analysis to screen the key effective components of Dachaihu Decoction for treating hyperlipidemia based on their degree value. Then, the gene targets of Dachaihu Decoction for hyperlipidemia were imported into the String platform to identify the key interaction modules in the PPI network. We also used the cytohubba plug-in to screen the key genes of these modules. The online database platform DAVID was utilized to perform enrichment and analysis of the key module genes with the highest number of genes and scores. The study yielded 116 active ingredients and 294 targets as the drug targets of Dachaihu Decoction. Furthermore, a total of 1349 disease-related gene targets were obtained from the CTD database, OMIM database, and TCMIP platform. After comparing the drug targets of Dachaihu Decoction with the targets related to hyperlipidemia, a total of 168 targets were found to be involved in the treatment of hyperlipidemia by Dachaihu Decoction. Using the MCODE plug-in in Cytoscape software, eight key protein modules were identified in the PPI network. Further analysis of the first key module revealed the top 15 hub genes which may play important roles in the pharmacological effects of Dachaihu Decoction for treating hyperlipidemia. To further understand the underlying mechanism, GO function annotation and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed for the genes included in the key modules using the DAVID database. Based on the GO function annotation, the biological process (BP) of the key module genes was mainly related to the positive regulation of transcription from the RNA polymerase II promoter, the negative regulation of apoptosis, and the response to drugs. The cellular component (CC) was mainly located in the extracellular space, extracellular area, and pits. The molecular function (MF) was mainly focused on enzyme binding, cytokine activity, and protein binding. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the key module genes were involved in several signaling pathways, including the hepatitis B signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, tumor-related signaling pathway, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. These pathways are known to be associated with inflammation, apoptosis, and cell growth, which are all critical processes in the development of hyperlipidemia. In conclusion, it appeared that Dachaihu Decoction could potentially be effective in the treatment of hyperlipidemia by regulating the expression of key genes, such as MMP9 and MAPK2, as well as the PI3K-AKT and TNF signaling pathways.

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    Effect of Nrf2 on the testicular microenvironment and its research progress in male diseases
    Hui Wu, Gang Ning, Bonan Li, Xing Zhou
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 513-526.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.043
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    Oxidative stress (OS) is an imbalanced state between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidation, and plays a crucial role in the development and progression of various diseases. Nrf2, a major regulator of ROS production and restoration of redox balance, exerts significant regulatory effects on the body and cells. For example, by regulating the testis microenvironment, Nrf2 can improve oxidative damage to Leydig, Sertoli, and spermatogenic cells, thus affecting testosterone synthesis and protecting male reproductive health. Moreover, Nrf2 is crucial in regulating late-onset hypogonadism in males and male infertility. Nrf2 is also involved in the pathogenesis of many other male diseases, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer, prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, and varicocele. Therefore, Nrf2 could be a promising target for treating and preventing male diseases, and it holds great potential in clinical practice.

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    Study on the mechanism of Danggui Buxue decoction in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy based on network pharmacology and experiment
    Dongyan Wu, Xiaodan Wang, Jinmiao Chai, Qinqing Li, Yue Li, Mei Bi, Wanwei Gui, Huimin Cao
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 527-538.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.044
    Abstract110)   HTML15)    PDF(pc) (2265KB)(55)       Save

    In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of action of Danggui Buxue decoction (DBD) in diabetic retinopathy (DR) using network pharmacology and molecular docking combined with experimental validation. GeneCards and DisGeNET were used to collect DR targets. The intersection of the two targets was obtained using Venny 2.1. Cytoscape was used to construct "disease-drug-component-target" and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. DAVID database was used to enrich key targets with Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). AutoDockVina was used to perform molecular docking of primary active ingredients with key targets. Molecular docking validation was performed with key targets by AutoDockVina. Finally, the network pharmacological results were validated by animal experiments. A total of 84 common targets of DBD and DR were collected, 220 entries were revealed by GO analysis, and 113 signaling pathways were obtained by KEGG enrichment analysis. Molecular docking results showed that the key targets had suitable docking activities with quercetin, dousterol and other active ingredients. Animal experiments showed that DBD could improve retinal tissue morphology, lower blood glucose, increase insulin secretion, reduce VEGF and TNF-α protein expression levels and increase PI3K and Akt1 expression levels in the retinal tissues of DR rats (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The treatment of DR by DBD had the characteristics of multiple active ingredients, multiple targets and multiple pathways, which could exert therapeutic effects on DR by regulating the core targets of TNF-α, VEGFA, PI3K, and AKT and affecting the signaling pathways of PI3K/AKT and TNF.

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    The structure and antiproliferative activity of the inclusion complex of neoandrographolide/β-cyclodextrin
    Yancong Zhao, Li Wang, Jingjing Zeng, Jinghua Li
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 427-434.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.036
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    In the present study, the inclusion complex of neoandrographolide and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was studied by experimental and theoretical methods. The inclusion complex of neoandrographolide/β-CD was prepared by the saturated solution method. The equilibrium constant of the inclusion complex was determined by UV-vis spectra. The structure of the complex was characterized by DTA, FT-IR, and molecular modeling techniques. All these results indicated that neoandrographolide could enter the cavity of β-CD to form an inclusion complex, and the neoandrographolide/β-CD inclusion complex exhibited different spectroscopic features and properties from neoandrographolide. The molar rate of the inclusion complex was 1:1. The five-membered lactone ring of the neoandrographolide molecule was inserted into the cavities of β-CD from the wider edge. The calculated equilibrium constant of the complex was 489.9918 mol/L. The in-vitro antiproliferative activity of neoandrographolide was significantly improved through the inclusion complexation process. Taken together, the inclusion complexation process was a successful method that could be used in the pharmaceutical industry.

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    Combination of pembrolizumab and chemotherapy as first-line treatment in advanced triple-negative breast cancer: a cost-effectiveness analysis
    Wentao Zhu, Wanglong Hong, Miaomiao Zheng, Guoqiang Ma, Aizong Shen
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 587-597.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.049
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    The purpose of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of using pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy for advanced triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in the context of China’s healthcare system. To achieve this, we developed a Markov model with three health states, a time horizon of 10 years, and a cycle length of 21 days. Additionally, we conducted one-way sensitivity analyses and probabilistic sensitivity analyses to test the model’s stability. Scenario analyses were also performed to explore the cost-effectiveness of pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy based on the Patient Assistance Program (PAP). The base-case analysis demonstrated that pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy provided an additional 0.67 QALYs, with an incremental cost of \$ 77 096.78, resulting in an ICER of \$ 115 896.30/QALY. One-way sensitivity analyses revealed that pembrolizumab cost had the greatest impact on the results. In probabilistic sensitivity analyses, pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy was found to be cost-effective in 0% of cases at willingness-to-pay thresholds of \$ 33 782.23/QALY. Considering China’s healthcare system, pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy as first-line treatment for advanced TNBC was unlikely to be cost-effective when compared to placebo plus chemotherapy. Even if pembrolizumab was to be included in the PAP, it would still not be considered cost-effective, although the ICER would be much closer to three times China’s GDP per capita (\$ 33 782.23/QALY).

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    Study on the mechanism of Rhinoceros Horn and Rehmannia Decoction in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus based on the method of network pharmacology
    Mengya Wang, Kuanyou Zhang, Xin Chen, Hao Fu, Shouchun Peng
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 351-359.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.030
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    In the present study, we aimed to explore the mechanism of Rhinoceros Horn and Rehmannia Decoction in treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). First, the active ingredients and their targets of the Chinese medicine components of Rhinoceros Horn and Rehmannia Decoction were searched through TCMSP, TCMID, and BATMAN-TCM databases, and then the drug targets were summarized. Then the disease targets of SLE were retrieved from CTD, OMIM, and TCMIP databases, and the intersection of drug targets and disease targets was analyzed. Cytoscape 3.7.1 software was used to construct a drug-component target-disease network. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of therapeutic targets was constructed on the String platform, and its key modules and hub genes were screened. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed in the DAVID database. A total of 22 active ingredients, 209 drug targets, 284 disease targets, and 59 therapeutic targets were screened out. Drug-component-target-disease and PPI network analysis yielded core active ingredients, such as quercetin, kaempferol, and baicalein, and core targets, such as PTGS2, CASP3, MMP9, AKT1, JUN, CXCL8, FOS, and TP53. It mainly involves TNF, PI3K Akt, Toll-like receptor, T cell receptor, and apoptosis signal pathways. It can be seen that Rhinoceros Horn and Rehmannia Decoction may play the role of anti-inflammation, inhibition of abnormal immune response, and apoptosis by regulating inflammation, immunity, and apoptosis signaling pathways. It has the characteristics of multi-center, multi-target, and multi-pathway.

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    Taohong Siwu dispensing granules alleviate rotenone-induced SH-SY5Y cellular cytotoxicity by rescuing mitochondrial dysfunction and amino acid metabolism disarrangements
    Shuang Li, Minggang Dong, Chunyan Guo, Shuangshuang Li, Sihan You, Ye Wan, Xinxing Liu
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 360-378.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.031
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    As a progressive neurological disorder, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by tremors and slow movement. Mitochondrial dysfunction and amino acid (AA) metabolism are essential mechanisms of PD. Previous work has confirmed that the changes in amino acid contents in SH-SY5Y cells are earlier than the changes in cell viability. In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether Taohong Siwu dispensing granules (THSWDG) could alleviate rotenone-induced SH-SY5Y cytotoxicity by improving mitochondrial dysfunction and amino acid metabolism disorder. MTT assay was used to analyze the cell viability. JC-1 dye assay was used to measure mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). HPLC was used to determine the content of amino acids (AAs) in SH-SY5Y cells. Principal component analysis was used to analyze the changes in the content of AAs. In order to further explore the PD-related biological functions involved in amino acid regulation, bioinformatics analysis tools were used to assess the biological processes involved in these protective effects. This study showed that the changes in AA contents in SH-SY5Y cells were earlier than the changes in cell activity. THSWDG dramatically increased cell viability and improved the rotenone-induced repression of MMP and abnormal metabolism of AAs. The results of the bioinformatic analysis suggested that the effects of THSWDG involved nine biological processes, including five AA metabolism regulations related to PD and four biological processes related to oxidative damage. The cellular AA process is a common biological process involved in the regulation of AA metabolism and oxidative damage. These results suggested that THSWDG exerted a cytoprotective effect on SH-SY5Y cells by rescuing mitochondrial dysfunction and AA metabolism disarrangements.

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    Analysis of 365 illogical prescriptions for parenteral feeding from a hospital's intravenous drug dispensing center
    Juntao Fu, Chunjie Nie, Min Li, Jia Li, Shuzhang Du
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 487-493.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.042
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    abstract

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    Discovery of potential xanthine oxidase inhibitors based on virtual screening
    Xiaowei Chi, Qi Li, Yi Zhong, Tong Gong, Chuxiao Yi, Liangren Zhang, Zhenming Liu
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 626-635.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.08.052
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    With the continuous improvement of living standards, the incidence of gout is increasing rapidly, and it is becoming more common among younger individuals. Xanthine oxidase (XO) is a crucial target for treating gout, as inhibiting XO can effectively reduce the production of uric acid in the body and alleviate gout symptoms. In the present study, three potential XO inhibitors were identified through virtual screening and validated using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Among these inhibitors, floxuridine exhibited the strongest binding activity at 0.35 μM, compared with 0.76 μM for the positive drug allopurinol. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to examine the binding pattern of these compounds with XO. It is noteworthy that all three compounds are already approved as marketed drugs and have established safety profiles, indicating their potential as effective XO inhibitors.

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    Simultaneous quantification of 37 constituents in Duliang Pill by UPLC-MS/MS: Application to the pharmacokinetic studies in rat plasma
    Yanfang Yang, Wei Wei, Lei Zhang, Wei Xu, Xiuwei Yang
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 560-573.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.047
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    Duliang Pill (DLP), consisting of Baizhi and Chuanxiong, is the classical formula of traditional Chinese medicine. In order to investigate the substance basis of DLP, we developed a highly sensitive and reliable UPLC-MS/MS method capable of simultaneously detecting 37 constituents from both Baizhi and Chuanxiong. To achieve chromatographic separation, we utilized a Diamonsil C18 column along with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 0.05% formic acid in water. MS analysis was conducted in the multiple reaction monitoring mode, utilizing electrospray ionization in either the positive or negative mode, depending on the compound being analyzed. The method was validated for specificity, linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, and stability, and found to be satisfactory. The validated method was then applied to a pharmacokinetic study in rat plasma following oral administration of DLP extract. Our findings revealed that all compounds were rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the plasma, with most being eliminated completely within 24 h. Notably, coumarins derived from Baizhi exhibited superior oral absorption effects compared to ligustilides from Chuanxiong. Furthermore, we observed that the elimination of coumarins from Baizhi within DLP was slower compared to their elimination in single Baizhi. These results provided valuable insights for the overall study of active substances within the DLP formula and further research into the interaction mechanisms of Baizhi-Chuanxiong compatibility.

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    An overview of flavonoids from Sophora flavescens (kushen) with some emphasis on the anticancer properties of kurarinone and sophoraflavanone G
    Eric Wei Chiang Chan, Ying Ki Ng, Hung Tuck Chan, Siu Kuin Wong
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 603-615.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.08.050
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    In this overview, the current knowledge of the constituents of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Sophora flavescens (kushen) is updated. Flavonoids consist of several classes, such as flavanones, flavonols, chalcones, isoflavones, biflavonoids, flavanols, and flavones. The most common compounds are kurarinone (KRN), sophoraflavanone G (SFG), 2?-methoxykurarinone, kuraridine, isoxanthohumol, and formononetin. KRN and SFG are two major flavanones with more vital anticancer properties than other flavonoids. From the literature, the cytotoxic values of KRN and SFG are variable and depend on the type of cancer cells tested. The anticancer activities of these two flavonoids involve different molecular mechanisms. Clinical trials are needed before anticancer drugs from KRN and SFG can be developed.

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    Vortex-assisted switchable solvent liquid-phase microextraction for preconcentration of cinnamic acid derivatives in traditional Chinese medicine
    Bo Fan, Xiao Yang, Shuang Hu
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 551-559.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.046
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    In the present study, we developed a vortex-assisted switchable solvent liquid-phase microextraction (VA-SSLPME) approach to extract four cinnamic acid derivatives in traditional Chinese medicinal samples prior to HPLC analysis. During the extraction process, hypotoxic hexanoic acid was used as a switchable polarity extraction solvent. First, hydrophobic hexanoic acid was converted into a hydrophilic form by the addition of sodium carbonate. Then, sulfuric acid was added to lower the pH value of the mixture, which induced the retransition of hexanoate ion into hexanoic acid, generating carbon dioxide (CO2) bubbles in situ. The formation of CO2 bubbles further facilitated the rise of hexanoic acid and expedited the separation of the organic phase from the aqueous phase. Herein, the critical parameters that affect the enrichment factor were optimized, including the type and amount of extractant, the volume of sodium carbonate solution, ionic strength, mineral acid type, and extraction time. Under the optimized conditions, enrichment factors of target analytes were 7–57 with satisfactory accuracies and precision. The limits of detection and quantitation were 2.0–7.0 and 5.0–15 ng/mL, respectively. In the present work, we successfully applied the proposed method for the simultaneous extraction, enrichment, and determination of four cinnamic acid derivatives in traditional Chinese medicinal samples.

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    A network pharmacology approach to explore the pharmacological mechanism of Epimedium brevicornum in sexual dysfunction
    Guangzhi Shen, Xingang Cui, Zhimin Na, Yulong Zou, Guihua Zou
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 379-391.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.032
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    Network pharmacology is a research method for designing multi-target drug molecules based on the theory of systems biology and network analysis of biological systems by selecting specific signal nodes to show the multi-component and multi-target attributes of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In the present study, we predicted the mechanism of Epimedium brevicornum (EB) in the treatment of sexual dysfunction (SD) using network pharmacology. Moreover, chemical constituents of EB were queried using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) server, and the targets related to SD were obtained using Genecards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM). An intersection of genes was discovered. Subsequently, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed with Cytoscape 3.7.1 software and the STRING database. Additionally, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed using WebGestalt. A total of 21 active drug ingredients were identified in the TCMSP database. Besides, 1003 disease targets from the GeneCards and OMIM databases were screened. Furthermore, 67 common targets for drugs and diseases were obtained using the Venny online tools. The results of this study preliminarily verified the basic pharmacological activity of EB in the treatment of SD, laying a foundation for elucidating its mechanism of action.

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    α-Boswellic acid ameliorates acute kidney injury by inhibiting the TLR4-mediated inflammatory pathway
    Fan Wang, Ruili Li, Wenjun Wang, Xiaoyan Zhou, Meiyou Liu, Jinyi Zhao, Aidong Wen, Jingwen Wang, Yanyan Jia
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 539-550.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.07.045
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    α-Boswellic acid (α-BA) is a bioactive compound derived from the resin of the African myrrh tree, which has been shown to have therapeutic potential for a range of inflammatory disorders. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of α-BA on improving ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI), both in vivo and in vitro. In this experiment, rats that underwent right nephrectomy and left kidney IRI were administered with α-BA 30 min before IRI. The rats’ renal function was evaluated, and their kidney tissues were subjected to histopathological analysis and TUNEL staining. For in vitro evaluation, the proximal renal tubular cells (HK-2) were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). Cell viability, immunofluorescence staining, and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB expressions were investigated. After treatment with α-BA, the levels of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen were significantly reduced in the rats subjected to IRI, and apoptosis was alleviated, along with improvements in renal morphological changes. Moreover, the treatment of HK-2 cells with α-BA effectively reduced the expression of NF-κB p65. Collectively, the results suggested that α-BA improved IRI-induced AKI in part by promoting the survival of renal tubular cells through the TLR4-mediated inflammatory pathway, thereby improving renal function.

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    Exploring the mechanism of Buxue Yimu Pills on postpartum abdominal pain through network pharmacology and experimental validation
    Mengyao Wu, Lu Liu, Peng Zhang, Lele Zhang, Yun Gong, Xiuwei Yang
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (9): 691-703.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.09.057
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    To investigate the molecular mechanisms of Buxue Yimu Pills (BYP) on postpartum abdominal pain (PAP) through network pharmacology and experimental validation, we filtered the main active components of BYP using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis (TCMSP), Symptom Mapping (SymMap), Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BATMAN-TCM) database, and Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China (ChP). The targets related to PAP were obtained from Genecards, and an intersection of genes was discovered. Subsequently, protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using Cytoscape 3.9.0 and the String database. In addition, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to analyze the intersection of targets using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) 6.8. We constructed a compound-target (C-T) network based on the above analysis. Animal experiments were performed to verify the core targets, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect protein expression in incomplete abortion rats. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that 40 potentially active ingredients in BYP might affect 40 potential disease-related targets, such as ESR1, PGR, and MMP2, and regulate pathways, such as the HIF-1 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and Estrogen signaling pathway. According to immunohistochemistry, the protein expression levels of ERα, PR, and MMP2 in the model rats were significantly increased (P < 0.01). After administration of BYP, the expression level of PR was increased (P < 0.01), and the expression levels of ERα and MMP2 were decreased significantly (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). BYP could treat PAP through a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach, regulating estrogen and progesterone receptors and improving collagen metabolism, thereby promoting postpartum uterine recovery.

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    Mechanism of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium in treating Alzheimer’s disease based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
    Yunli Chen, Renliang Yan, Lisha Li, Yamin Zhang, Xiaomei Xu, Xuehua Lu, Rongqing Xu, Wenjin Lin
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2024, 33 (2): 142-155.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2024.02.012
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    The objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanism by which Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP) treated Alzheimer’s disease (AD) using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Initially, a screening process identified 98 target compounds and 628 related component targets within CRP. Additionally, 2483 AD targets were retrieved from disease databases. Subsequently, an overlapping targets map was constructed, integrating CRP and AD targets, followed by the creation of a protein-protein interaction network map to identify 66 targets closely associated with the treatment of AD using CRP. These targets were identified through topological attribute analysis. To gain further insights, GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were conducted on the 66 identified targets. The results revealed enrichment in various biological pathways, including the relaxin signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and IL-17 signaling pathway. Finally, molecular docking verification was performed on the targets and active components of CRP. Active components, such as flavanone, tangeretin, flavonol, carvacrol, and perillaldehyde, were found to form hydrogen bonds with targets, with binding energies below 0 kg/mol. This study utilized network pharmacology and molecular docking methods to systematically elucidate the mechanism by which CRP treats AD. The findings provided a theoretical foundation for future research and clinical investigations.

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    The research group of Prof. Tao Liu realized supramolecular regulation of tetrazine bioorthogonal reactivity
    State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 508-511.  
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    The research group of Prof. Tao Liu realized supramolecular regulation of tetrazine bioorthogonal reactivity.
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    Direct identification of volatile compounds in the artificially cultivated and wild Chinese medicinal materials (Semiliquidambar cathayesis) by headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry
    Yonghui Ge, Ling Wang, Su Xu, Tianli Jiang, Jinhua Wang
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 392-405.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.033
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    Semiliquidambar cathayesis (SC) is often used as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the market, and its wild resources are now severely damaged and on the verge of extinction. In order to preserve and apply SC resources preferably, artificially cultivated SC is generated. In the present study, the variations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the artificially cultivated and wild SC were analyzed by headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) combined with principal component analysis (PCA). The medicinal value of artificially cultivated SC was determined by comparing the differences between these SCs. The results showed that the artificially cultivated and wild SCs had the same composition for the VOCs, and the VOCs in the bark and stem used to adjust the efficacy of liquid medicine in SCs were not significantly different. Collectively, the findings provided a scientific theory for the application of artificially cultivated SC and the replacement of wild SC.

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    Availability and affordability of osteoporosis treatment drugs in Wuhan based on the WHO/HAI standard survey method
    Min Wan, Jinyu Liu, Guangyi Yu, Suiju Tong, Lei Ke, Yu Zhang, Ruxu You
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 417-425.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.035
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    In the present study, we aimed to investigate the availability and affordability of osteoporosis (OP) treatment drugs in Wuhan and provide references for policymakers. We used the WHO/HAI standardization method to investigate the OP drug in Wuhan and collected drug information for statistical analysis to evaluate the availability and affordability. The results showed that the availability of bisphosphonates, active vitamin D, and their analogs was relatively high; the availability of denosumab, salmon calcitonin, and teriparatide was general; and the availability of calcitonin, raloxifene, and strontium ranelate was low. In terms of affordability, alendronate generic drugs had good affordability, while the other 10 OP treatment drugs had poor affordability. Generally, the overall availability of OP treatment drugs in Wuhan was average, and the affordability was poor. As China’s aging problem intensified, relevant government departments might consider including more OP treatment drugs in the medical insurance catalog and concentrating their quantities in the procurement process to further improve the availability and affordability of OP treatment drugs.

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    Establishment of a variety identification system for Fritillaria Thunbergii Bulbus and Fritillaria Cirrhosae Bulbus based on nucleosides and nucleobases with multivariate analysis and pattern recognition
    Jinghua Su, Chao Zhang, Lei Sun, Shuangcheng Ma, Yiwen Xing
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (5): 406-416.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.05.034
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    Fritillaria Thunbergii Bulbus and Fritillaria Cirrhosae Bulbus have been used as traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years due to their pharmacological activities. In the present study, multivariate analysis and pattern recognition were applied for the identification of Fritillaria Thunbergii Bulbus and Fritillaria Cirrhosae Bulbus by HPLC. A total of 49 samples from two varieties were collected, and 10 nucleosides and nucleobases were chosen for analysis. Multivariate analyses, such as hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and partial least square regression analysis, were used to reveal the correlation between its components and varieties. Moreover, different algorithms in pattern recognition, such as k-nearest neighbor, partial least squares discrimination, soft independent modeling of class analogies, and support vector machine, were applied to identify the species of unknown samples. Results by pattern recognition suggested that the prediction accuracy was satisfactory. A combination of multivariate analysis and pattern recognition was more reasonable, improving the analytical accuracy of variety identification.

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    Mangiferin alleviates cardiac inflammatory injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats by inhibiting the MCP-1/CCR2 signaling pathway
    Xiaoqin Hu, Xuefei Ding, Jiagang Deng, Erwei Hao, Zhengcai Du, Bei Zhou, Xuewen Zeng
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 460-472.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.06.039
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    Hypertension is a low-grade inflammation state of the disease and often complicated by inflammation of the heart. Mangiferin (MGF), which is a natural glucosyl xanthone, has a strong anti-inflammatory activity. However, the effects of MGF on cardiac inflammatory injury in hypertension remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects and mechanisms of MGF on cardiac inflammatory injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Briefly, 10-week-old male SHRs and 10-week-old male normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were used. MGF was used in SHRs at doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg for 8 weeks consecutively. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) level was measured, and the cardiac tissues were collected for morphology, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, Western blotting analysis, and real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) analysis. The results showed that the SBP level was increased significantly in the model group compared with the control group both before and after intragastric administration, the SHRs increased the SBP level spontaneously, and all doses of MGF showed no significant effect on the SBP level. Cardiac histomorphology showed that there was an apparent inflammatory injury in the model group. MGF significantly inhibited this injury. Meanwhile, MGF significantly inhibited the increased abundance of IL-6 and TNF-α in SHRs. Furthermore, MGF also significantly inhibited the increased expressions of MCP-1 and CCR2 at the protein and mRNA levels in SHRs. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that MGF did not decrease the SBP level of SHRs. However, MGF had a protective effect on cardiac inflammatory injury in SHRs, which might be mediated partly by inhibiting the expression of the MCP-1/CCR2 signaling pathway.

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    Preparation optimiztion of compound Codonopsis Radix granules and simultaneous determination of its four components
    Jie Yang, Caifang Jing, Shaochuang Li, Sitong Liu, Dongming Li, Qinqing Li, Wenbin He
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 665-676.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.08.055
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    In the present study a single-factor experiment and response surface methodology were utilized to optimize the spray-drying process of compound Codonopsis Radix granules and determine the optimal spray-drying process parameters. The proportions of excipients were examined using indicators of molding rate and moisture absorption rate. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was established to simultaneously determine the contents of lobetyolin, ferulic acid, calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside (CG), and glycyrrhizin in the compound Codonopsis Radix granules. The findings indicated that the highest spray-drying yield was achieved when the inlet temperature of spray drying was set at 145 oC, the inlet air velocity at 75%, the feed rate at 8%, and the drying aid at 5%. A ratio of paste starch to powdered sugar at 2:1 resulted in a good particle molding rate and moisture absorption rate. By effectively optimizing the spray-drying process of compound Codonopsis Radix granules and excipient dosage this study provides a valuable reference for the production and preparation of these granules. The contents of lobetyolin, ferulic acid, glycyrrhizin, and CG in the compound Codonopsis Radix granules were found to be 0.38, 0.22, 0.45, and 0.25 mg/g, respectively. These results provided a foundation for establishing a quality control method for compound Codonopsis Radix granules.

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    Prof. Pengfei Tu won the "16th China Pharmaceutical Development Award——Innovative Drug Special Contribution Award"
    State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 512-512.  
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    Prof. Pengfei Tu won the "16th China Pharmaceutical Development Award——Innovative Drug Special Contribution Award".
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    A comprehensive comparative analysis of transfection reagents for siRNA delivery
    Shuwen Tong, Xianrong Qi
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2024, 33 (1): 26-34.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2024.01.003
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    siRNAs have emerged as essential tools in biological research and hold promise as next-generation therapeutics for gene therapy. However, achieving successful and safe siRNA transfection remains a challenge, especially for cells that are notoriously difficult to transfect. The efficiency of siRNA transfection is influenced by factors such as uptake, cellular availability, and cytotoxicity. Generally, higher transfection efficiency is associated with increased uptake, improved cellular availability, and reduced cytotoxicity. This study aimed to compare the performance of different transfection reagents in delivering siRNAs, focusing on their uptake, knockdown efficacy, and toxicity. All reagents measured in here were good uptaken in HepG2 and HEK293T cells, but low uptake in RAW264.7 cells. Among them, the newly developed CALNP RNAi transfection reagent exhibited distinct uptake profiles when compared to other transfection reagents across various tested cell lines. CALNP RNAi consistently demonstrated superior transfection efficiency and minimal cell toxicity in all the tested cell lines. Furthermore, CALNP RNAi held promise for enabling RNA interference in "hard-to-transfect" cells. This research contributed to our understanding of effective siRNA delivery methods and highlighted the potential of CALNP RNAi transfection reagent as a valuable tool for gene silencing, especially in challenging cellular contexts.

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    Study on synthesis of naringenin derivatives and cholinesterase inhibitory activity in marine Chinese medicine
    Yuxia Zhu, Lingjian Zhang, Yiming Hu, Weihua Liu, Liping Guan, Lin Lin
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 636-644.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.08.053
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    This paper describes the design and synthesis of a series of chalcone derivatives based on naringenin as the lead compound. The compounds were evaluated for their activities against AChE and BuChE using principles of new drug design. The intermediate benzopyran-3-formaldehyde was synthesized from commercial ortho-hydroxybenzaldehyde and acrolein using K2CO3 as a catalyst. The target compounds were obtained through the Claisen-Schmidt reaction of benzopyran-3-formaldehyde and substituted acetophenone. The inhibitory effects of the chalcone compounds against AChE and BuChE were determined using Ellman’s method. Eight compounds showed certain inhibitory activities against AChE and BuChE, with compound 2d exhibiting higher activity against cholinesterase. Molecular docking studies revealed that 2d had a significant interaction with AChE and BuChE. This study suggested that chalcone compounds, including coumarin, might provide a potential pathway for discovering new anti-AD precursors.

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    The School of Pharmacy successfully hosted the 2023 "Pharmaceutical Preparation Frontier Technology Summit Forum"
    School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 683-685.  
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    The School of Pharmacy successfully hosted the 2023 "Pharmaceutical Preparation Frontier Technology Summit Forum".
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    Sialic acid-functionalized targeted drug delivery systems: advances in tumor and inflammation therapy by binding to Siglecs or selectin receptors
    Kai Li, Bingjie Tang, Xinlong Chai, Yang Ping, Lihong Wang, Jin Su
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (10): 773-795.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.10.064
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    Targeted drug delivery systems are highly desirable for their ability to release drugs specifically at targeted sites. Among these systems, active targeting is considered the most promising. However, the nanomaterials commonly used for constructing the targeting moiety of multifunctional drug delivery vehicles have several disadvantages that limit their applications, such as low biocompatibility, susceptibility to elimination by the mononuclear phagocyte system, and difficulty in modification. Sialic acid, a natural ligand, is often present as the terminal sugar of glycans on glycoproteins or glycolipids on the cell surface. As an endogenous substance, it is highly biocompatible, has a clear molecular structure, and is easy to chemically modify. Sialic acid-functionalized nanoparticles can carry drugs that target cells expressing receptors (sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin or selectin receptors) for the treatment of diseases. In the present review, we presented current literature on sialic acid-decorated nanoparticle-based targeted drug delivery systems that bind to “sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin or selectin receptors” for therapeutic effects in tumors or inflammation. We also discussed chemical modification strategies for natural sialic acid ligands to improve binding affinity and selectivity to receptors.

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    The research group of Prof. Rongsheng Zhao from Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy School of Pharmaceutical Sciences won the Promotion Award of China's "Management Science Award" 
    School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 494-494.  
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    The research group of Prof. Rongsheng Zhao from Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy School of Pharmaceutical Sciences won the Promotion Award of China's "Management Science Award" .
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    The research group of Prof. Yanxing Jia has made important progress in the field of total synthesis of natural product
    State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 503-504.  
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    The research group of Prof. Yanxing Jia has made important progress in the field of total synthesis of natural product.
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    The team of Prof. Zhenjun Yang have made continuous progress in the delivery of antisense nucleic acid structural modifications in vivo and the treatment of liver cancer
    State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (7): 598-599.  
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    The team of Prof. Zhenjun Yang have made continuous progress in the delivery of antisense nucleic acid structural modifications in vivo and the treatment of liver cancer.
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    Advances in immune-targeted therapy for Graves' ophthalmopathy
    Wen Lv, Ying Fu
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 616-625.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.08.051
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    Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration behind the eyes. The pathogenesis of this disease is complex, and although no definitive conclusion has been reached, immune factors are believed to play a significant role. Currently, no specific therapeutic drugs are available for GO. Glucocorticoids are recommended as first-line drugs for patients with moderate-to-severe, active GO, but they have significant side effects, and some patients are intolerant. Immune-targeted drugs offer a new treatment option with great promise for clinical application. Recent in-depth studies of the pathogenesis of GO have led to many clinical trial studies of immune-targeted drugs. This article highlights the research progress of three immune-targeted drugs, namely teprotumumab, rituximab (RTX), and tocilizumab (TCZ), with the aim of providing more therapeutic options for GO patients. It's worth noting that although these immune-targeted drugs have unique application prospects, their clinical application is currently limited due to unclear therapeutic effects or cost issues.

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    Prof. Wanliang Lu was elected as Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Committee of the Chinese Pharmaceutical Society
    School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 686-687.  
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    Prof. Wanliang Lu was elected as Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Committee of the Chinese Pharmaceutical Society.
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    Steaming-induced conversion of the volatile components for P. ginseng, P. quinquefolius, and P. notoginseng by headspace sampling gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) and untargeted metabolomics analysis
    Huimin Wang, Yuying Zhao, Xiaoyan Xu, Humin Xie, Meiting Jiang, Hongda Wang, Bei Xu, Xiaohang Li, Simiao Wang, Boxue Chen, Feifei Yang, Wenzhi Yang
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (8): 645-664.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.08.054
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    Ginseng is a popular tonic worldwide, and its effects can be enhanced by steaming. Previous studies regarding the steaming of ginseng mainly focus on the contained saponins but are rare on the volatile components. In the present study, we developed headspace sampling gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS)-based untargeted metabolomics to holistically characterize the altered volatile components of P. ginseng (PG), P. quinquefolius (PQ), and P. notoginseng (PN) during the process of steaming. Chromatographic separation conditions for GC-MS were optimized, by which the volatile components in both the raw and the steaming-processed products (at 1–10 h) for PG, PQ, and PN were characterized within 38 min on an HP-5MS elastic quartz capillary column. We could characterize 106 volatile components from PG, 106 from PQ, and 105 from PN. Multivariate statistical analysis could depict the transformation trajectory for PG, PQ, and PN induced by steaming at different times. Ultimately, 13, 16, and 14 significantly differential volatile components for the steaming of PG, PQ, and PN were discovered by GC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics analysis. Notably, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-pentylfuran, hexanal, caryophyllene, and (?)-aristolene were diagnostic to distinguish the raw and processed products for PG. α-Pinene, 2-pentylfuran, hexanoic acid, 2,3-butanediol, and pyruvic acid could distinguish the raw and processed PQ. Cyperene, furfural, 1-isopropyl-4,7-dimethyl-1,2,3,5,6,8a-hexahydronaphthalene, hydroxyacetone, and 1-pentanol could discriminate the raw and processed products of PN. The established GC-MS approach can be a practical tool to investigate the underlying processing mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine by revealing changes in its volatile components.

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    Therapeutic efficacy evaluation and mechanism of action based on meta-analysis and network pharmacology of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) for cancer treatment
    Gedi Zhang, Gengxin Liu, Ziyou Yan
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (9): 720-735.   DOI: 10.5246/jcps.2023.09.059
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    Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription with notable antitumor efficacy. This study focused on evaluating the therapeutic efficacy and mechanism of action of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) for cancer treatment, using meta-analysis and network pharmacology. Firstly, we adopted an evidence-based medicine research method to collect as many clinical research reports as possible on the treatment of tumors with Li Chong Decoction (Bolus). We then conducted a meta-analysis to confirm the efficacy and safety of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) in treating tumors. Lastly, we used the network pharmacology method to predict the intervention mechanism of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) in treating tumors. The meta-analysis showed that the total effective rate and safety of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.01). From network pharmacology, we identified 111 compounds in Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) and 339 targets shared between Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) and cancer. The significant protein targets of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) for cancer intervention were AKT1, TP53, TNF, IL6, JUN, VEGFA, MYC, ESR1, EGFR, and CASP3. GO analysis was performed, in which the entries with the highest number of enriched genes were protein binding, cytosol, and nucleus, with 291, 179, and 166 genes distributed, respectively. For KEGG analysis, 1894 channels were enriched, with pathways related to cancer among the top 20, such as pathways in cancer, prostate cancer, endocrine resistance, proteoglycans in cancer, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, bladder cancer, pancreatic cancer, IL-17 signaling pathway, C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Molecular docking results showed that quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol could dock well with AKT1, TNF, VEGFA, and EGFR, and luteolin-AKT1 and quercetin-AKT1 had the best binding degree. Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) maintained its efficacy and safety in cancer treatment. The effective TCM components of Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) might inhibit cancer by targeting multiple biological processes of hub genes mentioned above. Currently, research on the treatment of non-gynecological cancers with Li Chong Decoction (Bolus) mainly focuses on hepatocellular carcinoma.

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    The research group of Prof. Demin Zhou has made breakthroughs in the research and development of vaccines for personalized cancer treatment
    State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center
    Journal of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences    2023, 32 (6): 505-507.  
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    The research group of Prof. Demin Zhou has made breakthroughs in the research and development of vaccines for personalized cancer treatment.
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