American Journal Of Translational Research[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Molecular mechanisms of Buyang Huanwu Decoction in improving Diabetic kidney disease based on network pharmacology and experimental validation.
Yang F, Liu L, Gao Y … +3 more , Zhang X, Ma S, Zhang Y
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325783 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: In Chinese medicine, Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BHD) has shown efficacy in improving renal function. Nevertheless, its specific pharmacological mechanisms in treating diabetic kidney disease (DKD) have not yet...
OBJECTIVES: In Chinese medicine, Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BHD) has shown efficacy in improving renal function. Nevertheless, its specific pharmacological mechanisms in treating diabetic kidney disease (DKD) have not yet been fully elucidated. METHODS: In this study, the active ingredients of BHD were first identified using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, with their potential targets predicted via SwissTargetPrediction and confirmed in TCMSP. DKD-related targets were obtained from the GeneCards and DisGeNET databases. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was then constructed with the shared targets using the STRING database. Functional annotation was performed through Gene Ontology (GO) analysis on Metascape, while pathway enrichment analysis was conducted using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) via the ClueGO plugin in Cytoscape. Finally, in vivo experiments were performed to validate the mechanisms of BHD. RESULTS: A total of 634 active ingredients were identified in BHD. Among them, 222 corresponded to potential drug targets, and 3,665 disease targets related to DKD were obtained. Based on their intersection, a pharmacological network comprising 156 genes was constructed. Sixteen active ingredients were found to be involved in alleviating renal injury in DKD. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that the effects of BHD are primarily mediated through pathways related to inflammatory responses, lipid metabolism, and anti-oxidation, including the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways. Animal experiments further confirmed that BHD alleviates renal fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation, mechanisms that involve the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS: BHD ameliorates DKD primarily through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic mechanisms, ultimately reducing proteinuria and preserving renal function.
A capsular tension ring improves postoperative visual quality in cataract patients by reducing intraocular lens decentration and tilt.
Ji H, Yan J, Dang J … +1 more , Bai Y
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325782 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of capsular tension ring (CTR) implantation on postoperative visual quality, intraocular lens (IOL) decentration, and tilt, as well as to evaluate its effects on postoperative visual ac...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of capsular tension ring (CTR) implantation on postoperative visual quality, intraocular lens (IOL) decentration, and tilt, as well as to evaluate its effects on postoperative visual acuity, refraction, IOL positional stability, and other ocular measurements. METHODS: This retrospective study included 218 patients with highly myopic cataract (218 eyes). The patients were divided into an experimental group (CTR+IOL, 121 eyes) and a control group (IOL only, 97 eyes) according to surgical protocols. All patients underwent standard cataract surgery, and the experimental group received CTR implantation during surgery. Preoperative and post-operative assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), refraction, IOL decentration, tilt angle, anterior chamber depth (ACD), intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), modulation transfer function (MTF), coma aberration, and visual quality indicators (disability glare index (DLI) and quality of vision index (QVI)). RESULTS: Six months after surgery, ACD, ECD, and improvements in IOL decentration, as well as horizontal and vertical IOL tilt angles and MTF, were significantly better in the experimental group than in the control group (all P<0.05). Coma aberration was significantly lower in the experimental group compared to the control group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in visual acuity (BCVA, UCVA) or refractive errors (REs) between the groups. However, the experimental group showed greater improvement in visual quality assessment (DLI, QVI). Additionally, a significant interaction between treatment protocol and age was observed for ECD and horizontal IOL tilt. CONCLUSION: CTR implantation improves postoperative visual outcomes in highly myopic cataract patients, particularly by reducing IOL decentration and tilt. It enhances visual quality, promotes IOL positional stability, and improves key ocular physiological indicators.
Impact of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on serum lipid profiles and cognitive recovery in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment: a retrospective cohort study.
Hu J, Cheng Y, Qiao Y … +2 more , Zhou J, Cai M
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325781 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) affects patients' quality of life, with hyperlipidemia being a key modifiable risk factor. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may confer neuroprotection, but its effects...
BACKGROUND: Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) affects patients' quality of life, with hyperlipidemia being a key modifiable risk factor. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may confer neuroprotection, but its effects on lipid metabolism and cognitive recovery in PSCI remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of HBOT combined with conventional therapy on lipid profiles and cognitive function in PSCI patients. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 115 PSCI patients divided into control (conventional treatment, n = 58) and HBOT (additional HBOT, n = 57) groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) balances baseline confounders were assessed. Outcomes included lipid parameters, cognitive scores [Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)], and inflammatory markers. RESULTS: The HBOT group showed significantly greater improvement in MoCA scores (4.00 ± 1.86 vs. 1.63 ± 1.79 points; mean difference 2.37, 95% CI 1.61-3.13, < 0.001) and greater LDL-C reduction (-0.92 ± 0.54 vs. -0.35 ± 0.47 mmol/L; mean difference -0.57, 95% CI -0.78 to -0.36, < 0.001). HBOT was independently associated with cognitive improvement (OR = 3.45, 95% CI 1.49-8.02), with LDL-C reduction mediating 21.07% of the cognitive benefit. CONCLUSION: HBOT combined with conventional rehabilitation significantly improves lipid metabolism and cognitive recovery in PSCI patients, potentially through lipid regulation and neurovascular protection.
Serum alpha-fetoprotein kinetics as a mechanistic biomarker for rAAV-TK/GCV efficacy in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Yang J, Cao S
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325780 · Full text
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major fatal disease, and recombinant adeno-associated virus-thymidine kinase/ganciclovir (rAAV-tk/GCV) therapy is a newly discovered gene therapy with a unique mechanism of action...
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major fatal disease, and recombinant adeno-associated virus-thymidine kinase/ganciclovir (rAAV-tk/GCV) therapy is a newly discovered gene therapy with a unique mechanism of action for HCC. In the context of rAAV-tk/GCV treatment, serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a commonly used clinical marker, is more of a static tumor-positive/negative biomarker and cannot dynamically and comprehensively reflect the pharmacodynamic response. Therefore, this article constructed a mechanistic model and integrates clinical and preclinical research data, proposing that changes in AFP kinetics are the result of four interacting processes: preferential elimination of proliferative tumor clones expressing high levels of AFP, heterogeneity of rAAV-tk transduction and the bystander effect of tk/GCV, treatment-induced liver tissue damage and regeneration in cirrhosis, and adaptive and innate immune responses. This article summarizes the typical AFP kinetics, including biphasic or uniphasic decline, lag phase, transient "rebound rise", low-level plateau phase, and secondary rise, and explains these characteristics in conjunction with reasonable physiologic mechanisms. Sources of uncertainty include impaired AFP clearance function or the basic regenerative state of the liver. Based on this, the article explores how early AFP kinetic parameters (e.g., percentage decline, slope, time to and depth of nadir) can serve as dynamic efficacy indicators and predictive biomarkers to facilitate dosage selection, trial enrichment and adaptive treatment. Finally, this article clarifies the main directions for translational research, including conducting follow-up clinical trials with intensive AFP sample collection, combining imaging detection and multi-omics analysis, and constructing of model-based decision-making models. It also proposes that the rational application of AFP kinetics based on its mechanism of action holds promise for significantly improving the optimization and clinical acceptance of rAAV-tk/GCV therapy in HCC.
Plasma ECRG4 as a novel diagnostic marker for Alzheimer's disease associated with oligodendrocyte dysfunction.
Zhang L, Ikeda N, Takeda S … +5 more , Oikawa N, Murayama S, Koshimizu U, Yabe I, Kondo T
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325779 · Full text
Current treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) primarily focus on slowing disease progression, emphasizing the urgent need for a reliable diagnostic method for early-stage Alzheimer's (EAD). Our investigation, which is...
Current treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) primarily focus on slowing disease progression, emphasizing the urgent need for a reliable diagnostic method for early-stage Alzheimer's (EAD). Our investigation, which is based on the finding that the secretory protein Esophageal Cancer Related Gene 4 (ECRG4) is elevated in the hippocampus of AD patients, led to the creation of a novel ELISA system for ECRG4 detection. We observed that ECRG4 peptides, particularly the fragment spanning amino acids 108-132, were elevated in the plasma of approximately 25% of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 50% of those with AD, compared to individuals without dementia. RNA sequencing of plasma samples revealed decreased levels of carbohydrate sulfotransferase 3 () mRNA, which is mainly expressed in oligodendrocyte (OLG)-lineage cells, in ECRG4-positive patients. Functional analyses demonstrated that the ECRG4 (71-107) peptide induced cytotoxicity in oligodendrocytes in vitro and reduced the expression of the OLG marker galactocerebroside in the corpus callosum following intracerebral injection. Additionally, peptide injection resulted in extravascular IgG leakage and the accumulation of OLG precursor cells (OPCs), which are crucial for myelin regeneration, around the blood vessels. These phenomena were similarly observed in the hippocampi of patients with EAD. Collectively, these findings establish ECRG4 as a novel serum marker for AD and suggest its association with ECRG4-dependent OLG dysfunction.
Erratum: AGR2 promotes the proliferation, migration and regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Ma SR, Mao L, Deng WW … +5 more , Li YC, Bu LL, Yu GT, Zhang WF, Sun Z
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325778 · Full text
[This corrects the article on p. 507 in vol. 9, PMID: 28337279.].
[This corrects the article on p. 507 in vol. 9, PMID: 28337279.].
KDM4D enhances radiosensitivity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma through the SRBD1/RPL11/c-Myc/WIP1/CHK1 axis.
Gao Z, Han X, Yuan S
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325777 · Full text
: Radioresistance is a critical challenge in the treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Histone lysine-specific demethylase 4D (KDM4D) has been implicated in DNA damage response; however, its role in reg...
: Radioresistance is a critical challenge in the treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Histone lysine-specific demethylase 4D (KDM4D) has been implicated in DNA damage response; however, its role in regulating ESCC radiosensitivity remained unclear. We hypothesized KDM4D modulates radiosensitivity through the c-Myc/checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) pathway. : To investigate the role of KDM4D in ESCC radiosensitivity and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. : KDM4D expression was analyzed in tumor samples from 32 ESCC patients who received neoadjuvant radiotherapy. ESCC cell lines with KDM4D knockdown or overexpression were subjected to irradiation, and radiosensitivity was evaluated. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-polymerase chain reaction (ChIP-PCR), luciferase assay, and xenograft models were used to explore the underlying mechanisms. : Elevated KDM4D expression was associated with improved response to radiotherapy and prolonged progression-free survival (PFS). KDM4D knockdown significantly reduced radiation-induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, KDM4D promoted the demethylation of histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3), thereby activating S1 RNA-binding domain-containing protein 1 (SRBD1). SRBD1 subsequently upregulated ribosomal protein L11 (RPL11), which suppressed c-Myc expression, thereby downregulating wild-type p53-induced phosphatase 1 (WIP1) and CHK1. Rescue experiments and xenograft studies further verified this regulatory axis. : KDM4D enhances ESCC radiosensitivity through the SRBD1/RPL11/c-Myc/WIP1/CHK1 pathway, highlighting its potential as both a diagnostic biomarker and a therapeutic target.
Manifestations of different sleep disorders in patients with vascular parkinsonism and their impact on prognosis.
Hu X, Wang J, Zhao Y … +1 more , Wang Y
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325776 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical manifestations of various sleep disorders in patients with vascular parkinsonism (VP) and analyze their impact on disease prognosis. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical manifestations of various sleep disorders in patients with vascular parkinsonism (VP) and analyze their impact on disease prognosis. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 125 VP patients. Sleep disorders were assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Chalder Fatigue Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Restless Legs Syndrome Severity Self-Rating Scale, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) Severity Questionnaire, and Idiopathic Hypersomnia Questionnaire. VP severity was evaluated using all four sections of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). Logistic regression analysis was employed to evaluate the independent impact of different sleep disorders on adverse prognosis in VP patients. RESULTS: 64.0% of patients had at least one sleep disorder, with insomnia (44.0%), RBD (37.6%), and restless legs syndrome (28.0%) being the most common. Patients with RBD had significantly higher UPDRS Part I and Part IV scores (P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that insomnia (OR = 4.489, 95% CI: 1.903-10.589) and RBD (OR = 4.318, 95% CI: 1.814-10.280) were independent risk factors for adverse prognosis within one year. CONCLUSIONS: VP patients have a high incidence of various sleep disorders, which are closely associated with specific motor and non-motor symptoms as well as disease prognosis. Among these, RBD and insomnia serve as important clinical indicators for predicting poor prognosis in VP patients. Early identification and intervention of these sleep disorders may help delay disease progression and improve patients' quality of life.
Efficacy and safety of chaishituire granules in influenza treatment: a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled clinical trial.
Nong Y, Lin J, Wang G … +19 more , Xiong H, Zhou W, Liu Y, Li X, Jiang S, Zhao L, Shang Y, Lu G, Shen D, Cheng H, Zhang H, Sun X, Wei J, Qin Z, Wang J, Sun Z, Li L, Zhen H, Feng Z
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325775 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: Information on the safety and efficacy of chaishituire granules (CSTR) for treating influenza is limited. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of CSTR in shortening the disease and fever course and improving...
OBJECTIVES: Information on the safety and efficacy of chaishituire granules (CSTR) for treating influenza is limited. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of CSTR in shortening the disease and fever course and improving the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome score in influenza treatment. METHODS: This multi-center, randomized, positive-drug, parallel-controlled study involved 17 hospitals across China and 221 patients with influenza aged 14-75 years. These patients met the syndrome differentiation criteria for "Wind-Heat Invading the Wei-Exterior". Patients in the CSTR group received CSTR and oseltamivir phosphate dummy capsules, whereas those in the oseltamivir control group received oseltamivir phosphate capsules and CSTR dummy granules. The primary outcomes were the time to complete remission of fever and the main clinical symptoms. The secondary outcomes were the time to elicit antipyretic effects, acetaminophen use, TCM syndrome score, remission rate of main clinical symptoms, single symptom area under the curve (AUC), and the incidence of complications or severe/critical diseases. RESULTS: The TCM syndrome score, single symptom AUC, incidence of complications and severe/critical disease, time to complete remission of fever, main clinical symptoms, and initiation of antipyretic effects were evaluated. However, CSTR demonstrated a more rapid action and superior efficacy in alleviating sore throat compared to oseltamivir. The incidence of adverse reactions was similar between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: CSTR could be an alternative therapy for influenza virus infections.
Sodium hyaluronate/lysine nanoparticles loaded with si-VEGF-A inhibits corneal neovascularization.
Li D, Hua H
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325774 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: This study designed sodium hyaluronate/lysine (SH/Lys)-based nanoparticles loaded with vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) siRNA (V-SH/Lys), aiming to effectively treat corneal neovascularization (CN...
OBJECTIVE: This study designed sodium hyaluronate/lysine (SH/Lys)-based nanoparticles loaded with vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) siRNA (V-SH/Lys), aiming to effectively treat corneal neovascularization (CNV) by specifically inhibiting the expression of VEGF-A. METHODS: The particle size, zeta potential and stability of the V-SH/Lys nanoparticles loaded with si-VEGF-A were tested. The effects of V-SH/Lys nanoparticles on the tube formation and migration of vascular endothelial cells were evaluated through Transwell, cell scratch assay and cell tube formation assay. A rat model of CNV was established, and the extent of the neovascularization was quantified. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the cornea were also measured. The safety of V-SH/Lys nanoparticles was evaluated through cytotoxicity tests on corneal epithelial cells and pathological examinations of rat fundus tissues. RESULTS: The V-SH/Lys nanoparticles exhibited a particle size of 204.5 ± 38.3 nm, a zeta potential of +17.90 ± 6.46 mV, and demonstrated good stability as shown by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In vitro experiments demonstrated that V-SH/Lys could block formation of the tubular structures and migration of vascular endothelial cells. In the CNV model induced by corneal alkali burn in rats, the area of new blood vessels in the V-SH/Lys group was smaller than that in the control group (P<0.01), and the levels of corneal inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6) were significantly reduced. Moreover, V-SH/Lys nanogel exhibited no obvious toxicity to corneal epithelial cells, and no abnormalities were observed in the rat fundus tissues, indicating its favorable safety profile. CONCLUSION: This study has confirmed that V-SH/Lys nanoparticles, by targeting and regulating VEGF-A, provide an efficient, safe and non-invasive treatment strategy for CNV, and have potential for clinical application.
Association between occlusal plane cant correction and temporomandibular joint status in children and adolescents with mild skeletal facial asymmetry.
Huang X, Li C, Tang Q … +4 more , Zhang Y, Wang L, Zhou L, Hu J
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325773 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcomes of occlusal plane cant correction versus conventional orthodontic treatment on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) status and craniofacial symmetry in children and adolescents with mild skele...
OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcomes of occlusal plane cant correction versus conventional orthodontic treatment on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) status and craniofacial symmetry in children and adolescents with mild skeletal facial asymmetry. METHODS: A total of 124 patients were enrolled and allocated into an occlusal plane cant correction group (n=61) and a conventional treatment group (n=63) according to the treatment protocol. Changes in occlusal plane cant, TMJ-related clinical symptoms, imaging parameters, and craniofacial asymmetry indices were evaluated before and after treatment. RESULTS: The correction group achieved a significantly greater reduction in occlusal plane cant. After treatment, the incidences of TMJ clicking, tenderness, and deviation during mouth opening were significantly lower in the correction group. Imaging analyses showed superior condylar adaptive remodeling and improved joint space parameters in the correction group. In addition, craniofacial asymmetry improved more markedly in this group. The extent of occlusal plane correction was significantly associated with improvements in asymmetry indices and TMJ imaging parameters, and served as an independent predictor of TMJ symptom improvement. CONCLUSION: In children and adolescents with skeletal facial asymmetry, accompanied by occlusal plane cant, active correction of the occlusal plane cant is more effective than conventional orthodontic treatment in improving craniofacial symmetry and enhancing TMJ health.
Effects of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin on efficacy, inflammatory markers, and pulmonary function in adults with severe acute viral pneumonia.
Kong D, Mo Q, Zhang B
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325772 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To elucidate the effects of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (HD-IVIG) therapy on inflammatory markers, and pulmonary function (PF) in adult patients with severe acute viral pneumonia (SAVP). METHODS: A to...
OBJECTIVE: To elucidate the effects of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (HD-IVIG) therapy on inflammatory markers, and pulmonary function (PF) in adult patients with severe acute viral pneumonia (SAVP). METHODS: A total of 178 adult patients with SAVP were selected and divided into two groups according to their actual treatment regimens. Eighty-eight patients receiving routine treatment were assigned to the control group, and 90 patients receiving HD-IVIG were assigned to the observation group. Clinical efficacy, symptom relief time, inflammatory markers, PF, humoral immunity, and quality of life (SF-36) were compared across multiple dimensions. Factors influencing treatment ineffectiveness in adult patients with SAVP were also investigated. RESULTS: The overall clinical efficacy in the observation group was significantly better than that in the control group, with a significantly shorter symptom relief time. Compared with routine treatment, HD-IVIG therapy significantly reduced the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) while substantially elevating the levels of interleukin (IL)-2, various PF indicators, humoral immunity markers, and scores on all dimensions of the SF-36. Age, coronary heart disease, CRP levels, and treatment modality are associated factors increasing the risk of treatment ineffectiveness in adult SEVP patients. CONCLUSION: HD-IVIG therapy has a definite clinical efficacy in treating adult patients with SAVP.
Laparoscopic vs. open surgery for early-stage endometrial cancer: effect on inflammatory factors and quality of life.
Wu S, Li Y
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325771 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the differential effects of laparoscopic versus open surgery on inflammatory factors and quality of life (QoL) in patients with early-stage endometrial cancer (EEC). METHODS: A total of 165 eligibl...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the differential effects of laparoscopic versus open surgery on inflammatory factors and quality of life (QoL) in patients with early-stage endometrial cancer (EEC). METHODS: A total of 165 eligible EEC patients treated between January 2023 and June 2025 were enrolled and stratified according to surgical schemes into a control group (n=80; open surgery) and a research group (n=85; laparoscopic surgery). Comparative analyses were conducted across multiple domains, including therapeutic efficacy, safety outcome (e.g., incision infection, intestinal injury, ureteral injury, lower-limb deep venous thrombosis, and urinary retention), surgical indicators (intraoperative blood loss, operation time, lymph node yield), postoperative recovery (time to intestinal function recovery, duration of bed rest, and length of hospital stay), bladder function (time to first spontaneous urination, post-void residual urine volume, and time to complete micturition recovery), urodynamic function (free flow rate [FFR], filling-phase bladder pressure, and pressure-flow study during voiding), inflammatory factors (serum interleukin [IL]-6, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, high-sensitivity-C reactive protein [hs-CRP]), and quality of life (QoL) assessed using the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey [SF-36]). RESULTS: The research group achieved an evidently higher overall response rate compared to the control group, with a lower incidence of postoperative complications, less intraoperative bleeding, reduced operation time, and more lymph nodes retrieved. Postoperative recovery was significantly improved in the research group, as evidenced by shorter time to intestinal function recovery, reduced bed rest duration, and shorter hospital stay. Bladder function recovery was also superior, with shorter time to first spontaneous urination and complete micturition recovery, as well as lower post-void residual urine volume. Regarding urodynamic outcomes, although FFR, filling phase bladder pressure, and pressure-flow indicators decreased postoperatively in both groups, these indicators remained significantly higher in the research group than in the control group. Moreover, postoperative levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and hs-CRP were markedly reduced in both group, with significantly lower levels in the research group. QoL assessment revealed significantly higher SF-36 scores in domains of role-emotional, social functioning, physical functioning, and general health in the research group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic surgery outperforms open surgery for EEC treatment, significantly inhibiting serum inflammation and boosting patients' life quality.
Effects of protein-supportive therapy on maternal and neonatal outcomes in patients with nephrotic syndrome during pregnancy.
Zhong H, Kang Z, Zhuang L
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325770 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of protein-supportive therapy in patients with nephrotic syndrome during pregnancy. METHODS: This retrospective study included 314 women with moderate to severe...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of protein-supportive therapy in patients with nephrotic syndrome during pregnancy. METHODS: This retrospective study included 314 women with moderate to severe preeclampsia, of whom 152 were diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome during pregnancy. Patients were divided into a treatment group (n=82) and a control group (n=70) according to treatment regimen. The treatment group received supplemental human albumin (daily dose < 15 g) in addition to blood pressure control, while the control group received only routine antihypertensive treatment. Blood pressure levels, 24-hour urinary protein, serum total protein, albumin, creatinine (Cr), uric acid (UA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), lipid levels, liver function indicators, coagulation function, and inflammatory markers were compared between the two groups before and after treatment. Edema resolution time, length of hospital stay, pregnancy complications, and delivery method were observed; fetal birth weight, Apgar score, and perinatal mortality were also assessed. Adverse reactions during treatment were recorded. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed in diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, 24-hour urinary protein, serum total protein levels, and renal function indicators before and after treatment in the treatment group (all P < 0.05). The control group mainly experienced decreased blood pressure and serum total protein levels (both P < 0.05). Post-treatment comparisons between groups showed that 24-hour urinary protein levels in the treatment group increased, significantly higher than in the control group, while serum total protein and albumin levels were significantly higher in the treatment group (all P < 0.05). Neonatal birth weight and Apgar scores were significantly higher in the treatment group (P < 0.05). Edema resolution time was longer in the treatment group than in the control group (P < 0.05). No serious allergic reactions or infections occurred during treatment. CONCLUSION: Protein-supportive therapy can improve hypoalbuminemia and fetal outcomes, but it may increase urinary protein excretion and edema resolution time. Thus, the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed in clinical practice.
Diagnostic performance of multimodal imaging integrating X-ray, CT, and MRI in femoroacetabular impingement syndrome.
Liu Q, Zhang W, Mu Y
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325769 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of combined X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome and its subtypes, and to explore potenti...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of combined X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome and its subtypes, and to explore potential factors associated with FAI. METHODS: A total of 86 patients with FAI syndrome (FAI group) and 70 individuals without hip joint abnormalities (control group) were retrospectively enrolled. All participants underwent X-ray, CT, and MRI examinations. The imaging findings were collected and analyzed. The diagnostic performance of each modality and their combination for FAI syndrome was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Subsequently, independent risk factors were identified, and a nomogram prediction model was built and validated. RESULTS: The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for diagnosing FAI syndrome using X-ray, CT, and MRI was 0.792, 0.845, and 0.889, respectively, whereas the combined diagnostic model achieved an AUC of 0.932 (specificity: 90.70%, sensitivity: 95.71%, accuracy: 92.95%). Multivariate analysis further identified age, high-intensity exercise history (Hx_HIE), α angle, and center-edge (CE) angle as independent risk factors for FAI syndrome, while femoral offset played a protective role. The constructed nomogram demonstrated excellent predictive performance, with a C-index of 0.966 and high calibration accuracy, particularly in the high-risk range. CONCLUSION: The joint screening using X-ray, CT, and MRI can significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy for FAI syndrome. Age ≥32 years, a history of high-intensity exercise, increased α/CE angles, and decreased femoral offset are associated with a higher risk of developing FAI syndrome.
Single-nucleus transcriptomics identifies SPON1 as a candidate mediator of the anti-fibrotic effect of (L.) in diabetic kidney disease.
Zhu C, Zhu Z, Wang R … +5 more , Xiao Y, Wang Q, Wang X, Yin J, Wei L
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325768 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: This study elucidated the cell-type-specific mechanisms and molecular targets underlying the anti-fibrotic effects of (AM) extract in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We focused on identifying fibrosis-associa...
OBJECTIVES: This study elucidated the cell-type-specific mechanisms and molecular targets underlying the anti-fibrotic effects of (AM) extract in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We focused on identifying fibrosis-associated regulators using single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) and validating them experimentally. METHODS: DKD was induced in C57BL/6J mice by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin. Mice received oral AM extract (2.0 g/kg/day) for 14 weeks. We performed snRNA-seq on control, DKD, and AM-treated kidneys, utilizing computational tools to infer intercellular communication. Validation was conducted using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and confocal microscopy. , human renal proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells were exposed to high glucose (HG) with or without AM treatment. RESULTS: AM significantly reduced the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio and ameliorated glomerular and interstitial fibrosis in DKD mice. snRNA-seq identified proximal tubular segment 1 and interstitial cell clusters as the primary responders to AM. The extract suppressed transforming growth factor-beta TGF-β/Smad-related profibrotic signaling and remodeled epithelial-stromal intercellular communication by downregulating C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL) and colony-stimulating factor (CSF) pathways. Notably, spondin 1 (SPON1), an extracellular matrix-associated matricellular protein, was among the most significantly downregulated genes. Consistent with these findings, SPON1 expression was markedly reduced in both DKD kidneys and HG-injured HK-2 cells following AM administration. CONCLUSIONS: AM attenuates diabetic renal fibrosis by reducing SPON1 expression, suppressing profibrotic signaling, and remodeling epithelial-stromal crosstalk. These findings provide cell-type-resolved insights into AM's renoprotective mechanisms and highlight SPON1 as a candidate molecular target in DKD.
Latest clinical evidence and strategies for endoscopic intratympanic steroid injection in the treatment of sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Xu DD
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325767 · Full text
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a common otolaryngological emergency. Its pathogenesis is associated with vascular dysfunction, viral infection, and autoimmune abnormalities. In recent years, endoscopic intr...
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a common otolaryngological emergency. Its pathogenesis is associated with vascular dysfunction, viral infection, and autoimmune abnormalities. In recent years, endoscopic intratympanic steroid injection (ITSI), as a minimally invasive procedure, has been increasingly applied in the treatment of SSNHL. It presents prominent clinical advantages, especially for patients with contraindications to systemic steroid therapy or refractory cases unresponsive to conventional treatment. Herein, we systematically review the pathogenesis, epidemiological characteristics, diagnostic approaches and therapeutic regimens of SSNHL, and further discuss the controversies and future research prospects of endoscopic ITSI. Based on evidence-based medical findings, this article summarizes the efficacy and safety of endoscopic ITSI in enhancing hearing recovery in patients with SSNHL. Nevertheless, further optimization of surgical procedures and individualized therapeutic regimens is still required. Future research directions include the development of novel drug carriers, exploration of gene therapy, and application of artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis, aiming to advance precise and individualized treatment for SSNHL.
Cross-linked (R)-(+)-lipoic acid nanoparticles loaded with silibinin induce apoptosis and autophagy in glioblastoma cells.
Dai X, Liu L, Guo N … +2 more , Mao C, Yan X
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325766 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To overcome the limitations of poor water solubility and suboptimal tumour-targeting efficiency of silibinin (SF), this study aimed to develop a novel (R)-(+)-lipoic acid (LA)-derived nanocarrier platform to e...
OBJECTIVE: To overcome the limitations of poor water solubility and suboptimal tumour-targeting efficiency of silibinin (SF), this study aimed to develop a novel (R)-(+)-lipoic acid (LA)-derived nanocarrier platform to enhance its delivery efficiency and to investigate its antitumor effects and underlying mechanisms in glioblastoma. METHODS: Silibinin-loaded (R)-(+)-lipoic acid nanoparticles (SF@LA-NPs) were prepared by a self-assembly approach combined with ultraviolet light-induced crosslinking. Their physicochemical properties, drug encapsulation efficiency, and glutathione (GSH)-responsive release were systematically characterized. Human glioblastoma U87-MG cells were used to evaluate the anti-glioblastoma effects and underlying mechanisms through cytotoxicity assays, intracellular uptake analysis, apoptosis/autophagy analysis, and exploration of the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis. RESULTS: SF@LA-NPs exhibited uniform particle sizes, high drug encapsulation, and rapid GSH-responsive cargo release. Compared to free SF, SF@LA-NPs markedly enhanced intracellular uptake and cytotoxicity. SF@LA-NPs induced overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to mitochondrial damage and activation of the Caspase-3-dependent apoptosis pathway. Notably, SF@LA-NPs concurrently triggered a protective autophagic response, as indicated by increased LC3-II conversion and reduced p62. In addition, a functional antagonistic relationship was uncovered: pharmacologic inhibition of autophagy enhanced apoptosis and cytotoxicity, while inhibition of apoptosis attenuated cell death and altered autophagic activity. CONCLUSION: SF@LA-NPs developed in this study significantly enhanced the delivery efficiency and antitumor activity of silibinin in glioblastoma cells. Moreover, a dual-mechanism mode of action was elucidated, involving ROS-induced mitochondrial apoptosis and compensatory protective autophagy. These findings provide a promising nano-platform and a theoretical basis for combination therapies targeting apoptosis-autophagy crosstalk in glioblastoma.
Diagnostic value of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, hs-CRP, and adiponectin metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in patients with severe obesity: a retrospective study.
Deng L, Long X, Bai L … +3 more , Hu J, Guo J, Long J
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325765 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical value of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and adiponectin in the assessment of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical value of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and adiponectin in the assessment of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in patients with severe obesity. METHODS: The clinical data of 338 patients with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m) who attended the Health Management Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from January 2022 to January 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into a MAFLD group and a simple obesity group according to the presence or absence of metabolic dysfunction-related fatty liver disease. Clinical data were collected for all subjects, including fasting serum levels of 25(OH)D, hs-CRP, and adiponectin. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent predictive value of each indicator. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the predictive performance of each marker alone and in combination. RESULTS: Compared to the simple obesity group, patients with MAFLD had significantly lower levels of serum 25(OH)D and adiponectin, while the level of hs-CRP was significantly higher (all P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that low 25(OH)D level (OR = 2.354, 95% CI: 1.282-4.325), low adiponectin level [OR = 2.565, 95% CI: 1.408-4.673], and high hs-CRP level (OR = 3.402, 95% CI: 1.845-6.274) were independent risk factors for MAFLD in patients with severe obesity. ROC curve analysis showed that the combined model demonstrated the highest predictive value, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.960 (95% CI: 0.921-0.999). CONCLUSION: Serum 25(OH)D, hs-CRP, and adiponectin are closely associated to MAFLD in patients with severe obesity. A combined predictive model incorporating these three biomarkers demonstrates excellent predictive performance.
Preoperative prediction of early recurrence and microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma using conventional ultrasound, elastography, and clinical nutritional indicators: a radiomics-based study.
Jiang D, Chen D, Li Y … +1 more , Mo F
Am J Transl Res · 2026 · PMID 42325764 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate preoperative models for predicting 1-year recurrence and microvascular invasion (MVI) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using conventional ultrasound, elastography, and clinical nutrit...
OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate preoperative models for predicting 1-year recurrence and microvascular invasion (MVI) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using conventional ultrasound, elastography, and clinical nutritional indicators. METHODS: This retrospective study included patients with pathologically confirmed HCC who underwent curative hepatectomy and preoperative conventional ultrasound plus elastography. A total of 619 patients were included in the recurrence analysis, and 581 patients with complete pathological MVI assessment and complete modeling variables were included in the MVI analysis. Clinical, laboratory, nutritional, ultrasound, and elastography data were collected. Radiomics features were extracted from grayscale ultrasound and elastography images after standardized preprocessing and region-of-interest segmentation. Clinical, radiomics, and combined models were developed in the training cohorts and evaluated in the validation cohorts. RESULTS: For 1-year recurrence prediction, the combined model showed the best performance, with area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.675 in the cross-validation set and 0.771 in the independent test set, compared with 0.567 and 0.656 for the clinical model and 0.660 and 0.759 for the radiomics model, respectively. For MVI prediction, the combined model also achieved the best discriminative performance, with AUC values of 0.860 in the cross-validation set and 0.819 in the independent test set, compared with 0.836 and 0.793 for the clinical model and 0.667 and 0.661 for the radiomics model, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A combined model integrating ultrasound-elastography radiomics and clinical nutritional indicators showed favorable performance for preoperative prediction of both 1-year recurrence and MVI in HCC.
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