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  • Revisiting Intelligent Syndrome Differentiation in Traditional Chinese Medicine under the Disease-Syndrome Combination Model:Perspectives from Disease "Ambiguity and Precision"

    LI Xinlong;WANG Sulin;YAN Dongning;ZHAO Xinran;ZHANG Genming;Dongzhimen Hospital,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine;Certification Center for TCM Practitioners,National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine;Dongfang Hospital,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine;

    The ambiguity of symptom information in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) syndrome differentiation can be amplified in the direct reasoning process from symptoms to syndromes in the absence of constraints, which affects the accuracy and stability of intelligent syndrome differentiation. TCM disease concepts, while historically rational, are structurally ambiguous in both their connotation and extension, making it difficult to serve as stable prior knowledge in intelligent modeling. In contrast, modern medical diseases, based on objective testing and quantifiable indicators, have relatively clear boundaries and reproducible standards. This study proposes a disease-syndrome combination model, adopting modern medical diseases as structural prior variables to reconstruct the hierarchical relationships among disease, symptoms, and syndromes. By applying disease constraints, effective screening of information from the four examinations and compressing the reasoning space are achieved. Furthermore, by integrating artificial intelligence technologies, such as multimodal fusion and knowledge graphs, an intelligent syndrome differentiation model driven by both prior knowledge and clinical data is constructed, providing a feasible path to enhance the accuracy of syndrome differentiation and realize the intelligentization of TCM diagnosis and treatment.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1243K]

  • The Current Issues and Thoughts on the Empowerment of Famous Doctors' Experience Inheritance by Artificial Intelligence

    JIANG Xiaochen;LIU Fudong;ZHANG Chuanlong;LI Yi;SHEN Qian;PANG Bo;Beijing Chao-yang Hospital,Capital Medical University;Guang'anmen Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences;Beijing Friendship Hospital,Capital Medical University;Xiyuan Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences;

    In the context of the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), the inheritance of the experiences of famous doctors faces significant challenges due to its complex nonlinear characteristics and dynamic evolution. There are still issues in the current inheritance system, such as the homogenization of talent cultivation models, lack of standardized mentoring practices, and monotonous evaluation method, which hinder the systematic inheritance and innovative development of famous doctors' experiences. Based on a systematic review of the current state of artificial intelligence(AI)-assisted inheritance of famous doctors' experiences, this study explores innovative pathways for deep integration of modern information technologies with famous doctors' experiences from key dimensions, including data authenticity assurance, interdisciplinary collaboration mechanisms, and the establishment of dynamic inheritance standards. It proposes a paradigm shift in the inheritance of TCM famous doctors' experiences in the AI era, aiming to build a new TCM inheritance system of "digital intelligence empowerment and cross-disciplinary innovation", providing theoretical support and practical pathways for the inheritance of famous doctors' experiences in TCM.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1199K]

  • LIU Shangyi's Experience in Differentiating and Treating Rectal Carcinoma Under the Theory of "Treating Ulcers as Tumors"

    HUANG Wenqi;YANG Bing;XIE Zhenming;WANG Jinghui;WANG Dingxue;WU Wenyu;TANG Dongxin;Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine;The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine;

    This paper summarizes the experience of professor LIU Shangyi in differentiating and treating rectal carcinoma from the perspective of "treating ulcers as tumors". It is believed that the manifestations of rectal cancer, such as anal itching, cauliflower-like or ulcerative tumors, and bloody stools, are similar to external skin itching, skin ulceration, swelling, and skin bleeding. Therefore, the treatment principles of sores and ulcers department can be applied to treat tumors. Following the diagnostic and treatment approach of dermatology regarding the clinical typi-cal symptoms, for anal itching, the main treatment is to dispel wind and remove dampness, clear heat to relieve itch-ing, using "skin medicinals" such as Difuzi(Fructus Kochiae) and Baixianpi(Cortex Dictamni), as well as wind medicinals such as Shengma(Rhizoma Cimicifugae) and Fangfeng(Radix Saposhnikoviae). For constipation, the method of clearing heat and resolving toxins, unblocking the bowels and discharging heat can be used, commonly us-ing Baitouweng(Radix Pulsatillae), Donglingcao(Herba Rabdosiae Rubescentis) and Dahuang(Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). In terms of mucosal ulcers, it is critical to differentiate between yin and yang; the treatment of yang ulcers should focus on clearing heat and resolving toxins, commonly using modified Xianfang Huoming Beverage (仙方活命饮);for yin ulcers, emphasis should be placed on removing dampness and resolving phlegm, commonly with modified Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang Powder (薏苡附子败酱散). For bloody stool, differentiation is made between deficiency and excess, with the use of Diyu(Radix Sanguisorbae) and Huaihua(Flos Sophorae) for excess syndrome to cool and stop bleeding, and both herbs dry-fried until charred combined with liver-tonifying medicinals for deficiency syndrome.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1162K]

  • LIU Guangzhen's Experience in Treating Diabetic Kidney Disease Using the "Four Methods of Unblocking Collaterals"

    PENG Qianhong;XING Jianyue;Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine;Shanxi Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine;

    This article summarizes professor LIU Guangzhen's clinical experience in treating diabetic kidney disease(DKD) using the"four methods of unblocking collaterals". It is believed that the disease location of DKD centers around renal collaterals, with wind-damp turbidity and stasis obstructing the renal collaterals being the core pathogenesis. The four methods of unblocking collaterals are proposed to treat the disease which include expelling wind, dispelling dampness, draining turbid and dissolving stasis to unblock collaterals, and Tangshen Tongluo Formula (糖肾通络方) is designed as a basic prescription. In clinical practice, when applying the four methods of unblocking collaterals, it is necessary to adjust the treatment according to the dominance of wind, dampness, turbid, or stasis, and to flexibly choose the appropriate medication based on syndrome differentiation.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1207K]

  • Mechanical Loading Improves Qi-Blood Nourishment in "Sinew Wei (痿)" Via Mitochondrial Regulation

    CHANG Xili;HUANG Sipeng;SUN Wuquan;SHI Mengni;YOU Chengheng;FANG Min;ZHU Qingguang;Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine;Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine;Laboratory of Biomechanics,National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine;Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine;

    This study focuses on the core pathology of sinew wei (痿), which is mainly characterized by the failure of qi and blood to nourish the sinews. A mechanical-biological response framework is constructed with mitochondria as a key component, explaining the modern interpretation of the disease location of sinew transmitting to qi and blood pathology. Mechanical loading, as a physical stress stimulus applied to the body, manifests primarily as passive loading formed by external forces such as massage, and active loading resulting from voluntary muscle contractions, such as dao yin (导引). Mechanical loading can regulate mitochondrial function through two pathways, mechanical signal transduction and metabolic demand-driven regulation. Skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction is regarded as the core microscopic basis of qi imbalance in sinew wei, highlighting the intrinsic connection between qi and mitochondrial energy metabolism, as well as between blood and microcirculatory efficiency. Accordingly, distinct regulatory patterns of mechanical loading are identified. Wei associated with qi stagnation may correspond to mitochondrial network fragmentation and can be treated by regulating qi through passive loading, such as tuina, to restore mitochondrial dynamics. In contrast, wei caused by qi deficiency is attributed to insufficient mitochondrial biogenesis and may be treated by tonifying qi through active loading, such as dao yin, to promote mitochondrial biogenesis. This framework reveals the biological differences in mitochondrial regulation induced by distinct mechanical loading modalities and provides a microscopic mechanism-based explanation for the principle of "treating the same disease with different methods" in sinew wei.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1323K]

  • Exploration of the Staged and Phased Differentiation and Treatment Approach for Gastric Cancer Immunotherapy Based on the Theory of Shaoyang (少阳) and Shaoyin (少阴) as the Pivots

    ZHANG Wenkang;GE Yuansha;LIU Kexin;LI Jie;Guang'anmen Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences;Beijing University of Chinese Medicine;

    Based on the theory that Shaoyang (少阳) and Shaoyin (少阴) function as the principal pivots, and integrating the laws of qi-fire transformation, yin-yang alternation, and the waxing and waning of healthy qi and patho-genic factors, as well as the action characteristics of immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs), this study systematically expounds the dynamic evolution laws of the Shaoyang and Shaoyin pivots and constructs a stage-and phase-based dif-ferentiation and treatment framework for gastric cancer immunotherapy. In the neoadjuvant treatment stage, the core pathogenesis is the dysfunction of the Shaoyang pivot and the disorder of qi and fire transformation, often accompa-nied by stagnation of cold-deficiency in the middle jiao (焦). In the postoperative adjuvant treatment stage, the domi-nant factors are the depletion of Shaoyin fire and the damage of yin fluid, accompanied by the lingering of residual pathogen in the Shaoyang level and the obstruction of collaterals by phlegm and stasis. In the advanced stage, the critical conditions are the exhaustion of the Shaoyin pivot, the blockage of orifices by turbid toxins, and the separation of yin and yang, leading to the rampant of pathogenic toxins and the emergence of various complicated syndromes. The treatment should be guided by the principle of regulating the double pivot. In the neoadjuvant treatment stage, it is recommended to activate the Shaoyang pivot and warm and promote the qi movement in the middle jiao. In the post-operative adjuvant treatment stage, clearing the residual pathogenic factors from the pivot and nourishing the Shaoyin. In the advanced stage, rescuing the Shaoyin pivot and opening the orifices to transform turbidity. Furthermore, stagebased treatment should serve as the foundation for dynamically assessing the patient's immune status and phase-specific changes in immunity, thereby promoting immune activation while preventing and managing immune overactivation and drug resistance.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1276K]

  • Syndrome Differentiation and Treatment Patterns in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Guided by the Theory of Lung Collateral Disease

    JIA Zhenhua;Institute of Pharmacy,Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine;National Key Laboratory of Collateral Disease Theory Innovation and Transformation;Hebei Yiling Hospital;

    This paper explores the transmission patterns of "qi collaterals-qi airways-blood(vessels) collaterals" in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) based on the syndrome differentiation and treatment theory of lung collateral disease. Lung qi collaterals carry original qi, pectoral qi and defensive qi, primarily responsible for regulation and nourishment. The lung's airway serves as the pathway for the ascending and descending of qi. The lung's blood(vessel) collaterals circulate ying (营)-blood to nourish and infiltrate. Those three work synergistically to complete the core function of the lung, including governing qi, controlling respiration, and facilitating "qi exchange and blood transformation", with their functions converging in the "minute collateral-sweat pores". The occurrence and development of COPD follow the transmission pattern of "qi collaterals-qi airways-blood(vessels) collaterals". Initially, the condition is rooted in qi stagnation caused by deficiency(pectoral qi deficiency and sink), which leads to airway obstruction and difficulty in ventilation. Ultimately, disorder of qi affects the function of blood, resulting in a state of vessel collaterals obstruction characterized as "phlegm complicated by blood stasis hindering qi causes disease".

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1120K]

  • Differentiation and Treatment of Microvascular Diseases from the Perspective of "Cold Constraint in Sanjiao (三焦) "

    ZHANG Xiaoxiao;WANG Zeqi;HUANG Mengwen;ZHANG Yiyao;YAO Kuiwu;Guang'anmen Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences;Beijing University of Chinese Medicine;

    Microvascular diseases(MVD) can affect multiple systems in the body and are important factors in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases, as well as the aging process. It is proposed that the key pathogenesis of MVD is "cold constraint in sanjiao (三焦)". Based on the theory of cold pathogen, and by integrating the common and local pathologies of sanjiao, a treatment principle of promoting blood circulation and warming is established. A basic prescription for promoting blood circulation and warming is formulated, with modifications based on the specific pathogenesis of the upper, middle, and lower jiao (焦). For the upper jiao, cold constraint primarily involves the failure of the clear yang to rise and qi and blood stagnation, for which treatment should focus on diffusing and unblocking the heart and the lung, opening constraint and vibrating yang, commonly adding Shengxian Decoction (升陷汤) for warming and dispersing to assist in diffusion and dissipation, and using Guizhi Decoction (桂枝汤)-series formulas to harmonize ying-wei (营卫) and open the striae and interstices; both formulas can invigorate yang qi. For the middle jiao, cold constraint primarily involves the dysfunction of the central yang and internal accumulation of turbid pathogen, for which treatment should focus on harmonizing the spleen and stomach, warming and reinforcing yang; formulas such as Sini Powder (四逆散), Zhishi Xiaopi Pill (枳实消痞丸), and Banxia Xiexin Decoction (半夏泻心汤) can be used to restore qi flow, promote digestion, and balance cold and heat; Shengyang Yiwei Decoction (升阳益胃汤) can further enhance raising the clear and directing the turbid downward, expelling cold and removing dampness. For the lower jiao, cold constraint primarily involves damage to the original yang and dysfunction of qi transformation, for which the treatment should focus on tonifying original qi and reinforcing the foundation, as well as promoting diuresis and supporting yang; depending on the degree of deficiency and the presence of internal water accumulation, formulas like Jingui Shenqi Pill (金匮肾气丸), Fuzi Decoction (附子汤), and Zhenwu Decoction (真武汤) can be used. Based on the theory of cold constraint, the principle of promoting blood circulation and warming method runs through the differentiation and treatment of MVD. By further incorporating the pathological characteristics of sanjiao, flexible treatment strategies can be developed, which helps deepen the understanding of the disease's etiology and pathogenesis, while broadening clinical diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1226K]

  • Short-Term Efficacy and Long-Term Recurrence Rate of Traditional Chinese Medicine Versus Western Surgical Treatment for Mixed Hemorrhoids: A Multi-Center Retrospective Cohort Study Based on Real-World Data

    DING Kang;FAN Zhimin;ZHOU Xiaojie;WANG Xiaoxiao;GE Yuanyuan;ZHU Huiting;ZHU Yuxin;YANG Xia;DU Jun;HUANG Shicai;ZHANG Yang;Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine;Clinical Research Institute,Jiangsu Province Hospital of TCM;Suzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine;Kunshan Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Hospital;

    Objective To observe the short-term and long-term efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) surgical operations in treating mixed hemorrhoids. Methods A multi-center retrospective cohort study was conducted, collecting clinical data from 17,831 mixed hemorrhoid surgery patients in 8 top-tier TCM hospitals in Jiangsu Province. Standardized and structured datasets were obtained through artificial intelligence models. Patients who underwent western surgical treatment were categorized into the western surgery group(11,646 cases), and those receiving TCM surgical operations were categorized into the TCM surgery group(6185 cases). Propensity score matching(1∶1 matching) was used to balance baseline data between groups. The primary outcome was the one-year recurrence rate, and secondary outcomes included the main symptoms(rectal bleeding, degree of prolapse) and secondary symptoms(anal distension, anal edema, wound secretion and exudation, anal stenosis, residual skin tags, perianal itching, and anal pain) measured on days 7, 28, and 60 after discharge. Results After matching, 2194 patients were included in each group. Symptom scores showed that at 28 days after discharge, the TCM surgical group had superior improvement in rectal bleeding [OR=5. 786, 95%CI(3. 092,10. 827)], degree of prolapse [OR=4. 510, 95%CI(1. 649,12. 333)], and anal edema [OR=3. 188, 95%CI(1. 295,7. 845)] compared to the western surgical group. At 60 days post-discharge, the TCM group still showed advantages in improving rectal bleeding [OR=5. 237, 95%CI(1. 077,25. 464)] and anal pain [OR=11. 697, 95%CI(1. 186,115. 336)](P<0. 05). Long-term follow-up showed that the one-year recurrence rate in the TCM surgery group was 1. 1%(8/726), while that in the western surgery group was 2. 3%(10/444), with no statistically significant difference between the two groups(P>0. 05). Conclusion Based on real-world data, TCM surgical treatment for mixed hemorrhoids shows significant short-term symptom improvement, particularly in terms of hemostasis, reducing swelling, and alleviating prolapse of anal masses.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1450K]

  • Syndrome Patterns Distribution and Risk Factors of Mixed Hemorrhoids in Traditional Chinese Medicine:A Multicenter Real-world Study Using Large Language Models and Latent Class Analysis

    DENG Ruyue;DING Kang;ZHU Yuxin;LI Meng;ZHU Huiting;DU Lei;Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine;

    Objective To develop a standardized classification model for traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) syndrome patterns of mixed hemorrhoids using multi-center real-world data, and unveil their distribution patterns and core risk factors, thereby providing evidence-based support for standardizing TCM syndrome differentiation and implementing precision interventions. Methods A multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted, enrolling 13 283 mixed hemorrhoid patients from eight hospitals in Jiangsu Province between September 1 st, 2023 and December 31 st, 2024. DeepSeek-R1-Distill-Qwen-7B and LLaMA-3. 3 large language models(LLM) were integrated with latent class analysis(LCA) to perform unsupervised learning and latent class modeling of TCM symptomatology. Potential risk factors were screened via univariate analysis, followed by logistic regression to identify independent risk factors for each syndrome pattern. Results The model's performance indicators were stable and reliable across different clinical data types,i. e. in the outpatient records, past medical history(F1=99. 7%), current medical history(F1=94. 9%), and specialist examination(F1=90. 7%); in inpatient records, past medical history(F1=98. 2%), current medical history(F1=91. 2%), specialist examination(F1=90. 3%), and discharge status(F1=90. 6%). Latent class mode-ling identified four core TCM syndrome patterns including spleen deficiency and qi sinking syndrome(915 cases, 6. 89%), damp-heat pouring downward syndrome(10 820 cases, 81. 46%), qi stagnation and blood stasis syndrome(1252 cases, 9. 43%), and wind injuring intestinal collaterals syndrome(296 cases, 2. 22%), with respective latent class probabilities of 0. 069, 0. 815, 0. 094, and 0. 022. Logistic regression demonstrated that gender, age, disease duration, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, constipation, smoking history, and alcohol consumption were independent risk factors for pattern differentiation(P<0. 05). The efficacy validation evaluation revealed that the cure rates for patients with spleen deficiency and qi sinking syndrome and qi stagnation and blood stasis syndrome were higher than those for patients with damp-heat pouring downward syndrome(adjusted P<0. 05), with no statistically significant differences among other syndrome patterns. Conclusion Damp-heat pouring downward syndrome is the predominant syndrome in mixed hemorrhoids. Gender, age, disease duration, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, constipation, smoking history, and alcohol consumption are independent risk factors for the differentiation of syndrome types.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1614K]

  • Construction of An Automated Segmentation Visual Foundation Model for Pathological Images of Hemorrhoids and Its Application in Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Syndrome Analysis

    ZHANG Shijie;ZHANG Ao;WANG Kang;KANG Bin;YU Xiaofan;FENG Xujing;CAO Jinyu;HUANG Wenzhen;DING Kang;Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine;School of Internet of Things,Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications;

    This paper proposes a two-stage method integrating visual foundation models(VFM) and diffusion models. The segment anything model(SAM) as VFM is combined with the SegRefiner diffusion model to construct the SAM-SegRefiner framework for automated segmentation of edema, inflammation, and thrombus regions in histopathological images of hemorrhoidal tissue, providing a reproducible technical tool for the objective quantification of pathological morphology and its application in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) syndrome research. Trained and validated on multi-center retrospective data, the SAM-SegRefiner model achieved an average pixel accuracy of 95. 32% and a mean intersection over union(mIoU) of 66. 81% on an independent test set, significantly outperforming comparative models such as U-Net, MixU-Net, and SAM-Med2D, and also demonstrating robust cross-center generalization capability. Furthermore, by correlating the quantitatively segmented results from the model with the patients' TCM syndrome types, the potential associations between pathomorphological features and TCM syndrome differentiation have been explored. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in the degree of inflammatory infiltration and thrombus formation among different syndrome types, suggesting a complex relationship between local pathological changes and systemic syndrome manifestations.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 2026K]

  • Construction and Application of a Multicenter Traditional Chinese Medicine Proctology Disease Data Platform Based on Multimodal Large Models

    ZHU Yuxin;ZHAO Liping;LU Jiafa;ZHU Huiting;YANG Xia;DU Lei;DING Kang;Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine;Traditional Chinese Medicine Administration,Jiangsu Commission of Health;Jiangsu Provincial Health Information Center;

    This paper has constructed a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) specialized disease dataset platform for mixed hemorrhoids based on a multimodal large model, and the preliminary application has been validated. The platform uses StarRocks to establish a four-level data warehouse system, enabling the aggregation, cleaning, and standardization of multi-source heterogeneous data. Using DeepSeek-R1-Distill-Qwen-7B as the base model, domain finetuning is performed through low-rank adaptation(LoRA) technology. Combined with LLaMA-3. 3 natural language processing and reasoning chain techniques, the platform enables intelligent parsing and structured extraction of unstructured TCM medical records. It accurately identifies six major categories and 28 subcategories of entities, including symptoms and syndromes, with a fine-tuned model F1 score of 93. 8%. The platform has established a highquality specialized disease dataset containing more than 50,000 medical records and has been applied in a real-world study involving 17,831 patients, preliminarily verifying the efficacy of TCM heritage surgery.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1258K]

  • Evaluation of Pulmonary Air-Blood Barrier Damage in Ulcerative Colitis Inflammatory Cancer Transformation Model Mice:Based on the "Lung-Intestine Correlation" Theory

    XU Huiyan;ZHANG Haimei;ZHAN Xinyu;WU Fanwu;JIA Yongsen;WU Chenxi;KONG Lingyu;YAN Xin;North China University of Science and Technology;Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Diabetes and Its Complications;Affiliated Hospital of North China University of Science and Technology;

    Objective To dynamically observe and evaluate the damage to the pulmonary air-blood barrier in mice during the inflammatory cancer transformation process of ulcerative colitis(UC) based on the "lung-intestine correlation" theory. Methods Sixty-five C57 BL/6 mice were divided into a normal group(n=25) and a model group(n=40) using a random number table. Azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate(DSS) method was used to establish a mouse model of UC inflammation cancer transformation in the modeling group. According to the tissue collection time points at 5, 8, 11, 13, and 15 weeks, the normal group mice were randomly divided into the normal 5w, 8w, 11w, 13w, and 15w groups. The model group mice, 10 mice of which died after the first cycle of DSS administration, were randomly divided into model 5w, 8w, 11w, 13w, and 15w groups. During the experiment, the general condition of the mice was observed daily, and their body weight was measured weekly. At the corresponding tissue collection time points, the colon length of each group was measured. Histopathology of mouse lung and colon tissues was examined using HE staining. Immunofluorescence was used to detect changes in the positive expression of tight junction protein(ZO-1), vascular endothelial cadherin(VE-cadherin), and cytoskeletal protein(F-actin) in lung and colon tissues. RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expression of apoptosis regulatory proteins B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2), BCL2-associated X protein(Bax), and Cysteine aspartic acid protease-3(Caspase-3) in lung tissues. Western Blot was employed to measure protein levels of ZO-1, VE-cadherin, and F-actin in lung tissues. Results Compared to the normal group at the same time point, the mice in the model group at each time point generally had poorer conditions, with weight loss and shortened colon length(P<0. 05 or P<0. 01). In the model 5w group, there was significant inflammatory cell infiltration in the colon tissue; in the model 8w group, there was mild atypical hyperplasia; in the model 11w group, the crypt structure was disordered, and moderate to severe atypical hyperplasia occurred; in the model 13w and 15w groups, tumors appeared. Pulmonary interstitial lesions, inflammation, vasculitis, and fibrosis were observed at all stages of UC inflammation cancer transformation. The protein levels of ZO-1, VE-cadherin, and F-actin, as well as Bcl-2 mRNA expression in lung tissue decreased during the acute inflammatory recovery period, atypical hyperplasia period, and canceration period, while the expressions of Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA increased; the expressions of ZO-1, VE-cadherin, and F-actin proteins in colon tissue decreased during the acute inflammatory recovery period, atypical hyperplasia period, and canceration period(P<0. 01 or P<0. 05). Compared to the model 5w group, the ZO-1 and F-actin protein levels and Bcl-2 mRNA expression in lung tissue in the other model groups increased in the atypical hyperplasia period and canceration period, while the expressions of Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA decreased; the expression of ZO-1 protein in colon tissue increased in the canceration period, and the expression of VE-cadherin protein decreased in the atypical hyperplasia period(P<0. 01 or P<0. 05). Conclusion In the process of "inflammatory response-atypical hyperplasia-carcinogenesis" in UC inflammatory cancer transformation mice, there were damage to air-blood barrier.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 2534K]

  • Effects of Yangxin Tongmai Formula (养心通脉方) on Methylation Key Genes and the PERK/ATF4/CHOP Signaling Pathway in Myocardial Tissue of Coronary Heart Disease Model Rats with Blood Stasis Syndrome

    ZHANG Chun;ZHANG Shumeng;MAO Yan;CHEN Xing;KUANG Huifang;YANG Yi;CHEN Lingli;LI Jie;Hunan University of Chinese Medicine;

    Objective To investigate the mechanism of Yangxin Tongmai Formula (养心通脉方, YTF) in treating coronary heart disease with blood stasis syndrome based on DNA methylation. Methods Seventy-two SD rats were randomly divided into a control group(n=12) and a modeling group(n=60). The modeling group was subjected to a high-fat diet, intragastric administration of vitamin D3, and subcutaneous injection of isoprenaline to establish the rat model of coronary heart disease with blood stasis syndrome. Forty-one successfully modeled rats were then randomly allocated into model group, YTF low-, medium-, and high-dose groups, and the atorvastatin calcium group, with 8 rats in each group and 1 rat reserved. The YTF low-, medium-, and high-dose groups received YTF at 6, 12, and 18 g/(kg·d) by gavage, respectively. The atorvastatin calcium group received atorvastatin calcium tablets at 1. 8 mg/(kg·d) by gavage. The control group and the model group received 0. 9% sodium chloride injection at 4 ml/(kg·d) by gavage. All administrations were performed once daily for 3 weeks. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, serum lipid levels including total cholesterol(TC), triglycerides(TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C), myocardial enzymes including cardiac troponin T(cTnT), creatine kinase MB(CK-MB), and lactate dehydrogenase(LDH), and inflammatory factors including interleukin-1β(IL-1β) and interleukin-10(IL-10) were detected by ELISA. Pathological changes in myocardial tissue were observed via HE staining. Whole blood DNA methylation sequencing was used to analyze differential methylation gene expression among the control group, model group, and YTF high-dose group. Western Blotting was used to verify the protein levels of the key genes and downstream signaling pathways. Results Compared to the control group, the model group showed increased levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, cTnT, CK-MB, LDH, and IL-1β, along with decreased levels of HDL-C and IL-10(P<0. 05 or P<0. 01). Compared to the model group, all treatment groups exhibited decreased levels of TC, LDL-C, CK-MB, and LDH, along with increased IL-10 levels. Among these, the high-dose YTF group demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing cTnT levels compared to the other TCM groups(P<0. 05 or P<0. 01). HE staining indicated that the YTF high-dose group ameliorated myocardial cell swelling, disordered arrangement, pyknosis, and disappearance of nuclei, thereby reducing myocardial cell damage. Whole blood DNA methylation sequencing identified 240 differentially methylated genes shared by the control group, model group, and YTF high-dose group, including 109 hypermethylated and 131 hypomethylated genes; eif2 ak3 was identified as a key differentially methylated gene. Compared to the control group, the model group exhibited increased protein levels of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha kinase 3(eIf2 ak3), phosphorylated protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase(p-PERK), activating transcription factor 4(ATF4), C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP), and Bax, along with a decreased level of B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2) protein(P<0. 05 or P<0. 01). Compared to the model group, the YTF high-dose group showed decreased protein levels of eIf2 ak3, p-PERK, ATF4, CHOP, and Bax, and an increased level of Bcl-2 protein(P<0. 05 or P<0. 01). Conclusion YTF may regulate key differentially methylated genes such as eIf2 ak3 and the PERK/ATF4/CHOP signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress, reducing myocardial cell apoptosis, and exerting therapeutic effects in coronary heart disease blood stasis syndrome.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1347K]

  • Discussion on the Treatment of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome from the Theory of "Qi Loses Its Regulatory Function,Fluids and Blood Follow the Same Path"

    WENG Hui;CHEN Bo;CHEN Tengfei;YE Chengjian;ZHENG Wenhe;Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine;

    Acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS) is believed to primarily result from a disorder of the qi movement, with qi dysfunction occurring first, followed by changes in fluids and blood. The disease is located in the lungs, with its root in qi and pathological changes in fluids and blood, aligning with the theory of "qi loses its regulatory function, fluids and blood follow the same path". Accordingly, ARDS is divided into three stages, the early stage with qi congestion, counterflow, fluids and blood obstruction, severe stage with qi collapse, yang depletion, fluids and blood out of control), and recovery stage with qi consumption and fluids damage, residual pathogen retention. For the corresponding treatments, in the early stage, the focus is on diffusing the lung qi, opening the block, dissolving phlegm, and eliminating fluid retention, using Tingli Dazao Xiefei Decoction (葶苈大枣泻肺汤) and Xuanbai Chengqi Decoction (宣白承气汤)/Shegan Mahuang Decoction (射干麻黄汤) with modifications. In the severe stage, the priority is to reinforce qi, stabilize collapse, and promote diuresis and blood circulation, with modified Zhenwu Decoction (真武汤) and Shenge Powder (参蛤散). During recovery stage, the emphasis shifts to replenishing qi and body fluids while clearing residual pathogens, with Shashen Maidong Decoction (沙参麦冬汤) and Bufei Decoction (补肺汤). At the same time, from the perspective of "qi loses its regulatory function, fluids and blood follow the same path", the mechanism of prone position ventilation(PPV) is explored. It is believed that the effect of "qi reaching the blood" via PPV by restoring the qi movement and unblocking qi, blood and water retention, which offers insights for the diagnosis and treatment of ARDS with integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1298K]

  • Experience of Seasonal Acupuncture for Treating Allergic Rhinitis Based on the Theory of Latent Pathogen

    ZHAO Yixi;CHEN Sheng;Dongzhimen Hospital,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine;

    The seasonal onset or worsening of allergic rhinitis is consistent with the characteristics of not developing, lurking in the body, and recurrent attacks due to the suffering of latent pathogen. Based on the theory of latent pathogen, a seasonal acupuncture treatment approach for allergic rhinitis is proposed. Qi is in the channels in spring, and it is advisable to take the Luo-connecting points and the Ying-spring points and transport points between the muscle interspaces of the body; qi is in the minute collaterals in summer, it is advisable to take the superficial collateral vessels and puncture them for bloodletting; qi is on the skin in autumn, and He-sea points and back-shu points are recommended; qi is in the bone marrow in winter, so it is advisable to take the Jing-well points and Yingspring points and needle them deeply to the bone.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1198K]

  • Re-Examination of the Efficacy of Zhishi(Fructus Aurantii Immaturus) in Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases (《伤寒杂病论》)

    ZHEN Chen;LIANG Ruiting;LIU Shulin;Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine;First Clinical Medical College,Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine;The First Affiliated Hospital,Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine;

    This study addresses the issue of understanding the efficacy of Zhishi(Fructus Aurantii Immaturus) in the Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases (《伤寒杂病论》) caused by changes in the botanical origin of the herbal medicinals. Through a historical tracing and theoretical exploration, the efficacy theory of Zhishi in the Han Dynasty is further discussed. Historical tracing shows that the botanical origin of Zhishi evolved from the mature fruit peel of Juju(Fructus Ponciri Trifoliatae) in the Han and Tang dynasties to the immature fruit of sour orange after the Song Dynasty. This evolution strengthened its function of "breaking stagnant qi and dispersing accumulation" but caused a disconnection between later theoretical interpretations of Zhishi and its Han Dynasty application. Analysis of formulas containing Zhishi and the herbal combinations in the Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases reveals that the functions have high similarity with records in the Miscellaneous Records of Famous Physicians (《名医别录》), and the effect trends are highly dependent on herbal combinations. The therapeutic range broadly covers the chest and abdomen rather than focusing solely on the lower jiao (焦). Therefore, accurately understanding the efficacy of Zhishi in the Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases requires returning to its Han Dynasty origin(mature fruit peel of Juju), where its properties lean more toward unblocking constraint via diffusing and dissipating rather than aggressively breaking constraint qi.

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1190K]

  • Theoretical Exploration of "Treat Heat with Cold" and "Disperse Fire Constraint" and Clinical Application in Acupuncture

    SONG Tingting;DU Shuo;ZHAO Jiping;Beijing Anzhen Hospital,Capital Medical University;Dongzhimen Hospital,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine;

    The connotation of "treat heat with cold" and "disperse fire constraint" differs, and under the guidance of these two principles, there are variations in the selection of acupoints, choice of needles, and manipulation techniques in clinical acupuncture. "Treat heat with cold" is used to clear and drain heat pathogens, while "disperse fire constraint" focuses on diffusing and dissipating fire from constraint. When both fire constraint and internal heat coexist, treatment should combine both "dispersing the fire" and "cooling the heat". In clinical acupuncture, for clearing heat and draining heat pathogens, acupoints on Governor vessel (督脉) and Yangming (阳明经) channel are commonly selected, with Jing-well points, Ying-spring points and He-sea points. To diffuse and dissipate fire constraint, acupoints on the Taiyang (太阳) and Shaoyang (少阳) channels are usually chosen, with Jing-river points and Ashi points as the primary options. In terms of needle choice, for heat syndrome, filiform needles, three-edged needles, and cupping are often used for clearing heat and resolving toxins; for fire constraint syndrome, moxibustion and fire needles are employed to expel fire from the body. Regarding manipulation techniques, draining method can be used in both conditions, with heat syndrome requiring shallow needling and quick removal, while fire constraint syndrome requiring deeper and longer retention of needles, having an emphasis on hand pressure coordination and smooth qi flow. In clinical practice, it is essential to distinguish the presence of "constraint" and the depth of the disease location to appropriately combine "dispersing fire" and "cooling heat".

    2026 07 v.67 [Abstract][OnlineView][Download 1261K]



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