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Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (rb-bFGF) assisted non-ablative fractional laser therapy for acne scars and its impact on skin barrier function. Methods: 98 patients with acne scars admitted to our hospital from May 2021 to May 2023 were selected and divided into a control group and an observation group based on different treatment methods, with 49 patients in each group. Both groups were treated with non-ablative fractional laser, and the observation group was added with rb-bFGF gel. Evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy, skin barrier function, etc. of the two groups. Results: The edema time, pain time, erythema duration, scab formation time and healing time of the observation group were significantly lower than control group (P<0.05), and the ECCA and VSS scores were also significantly lower than control group (P<0.05). The markedly effective rate of the observation group was significantly higher than control group(79.59% vs. 57.14%, P<0.05). Compared with before treatment, the skin moisture content of the two groups significantly increased and the transepidermal water loss significantly decreased after treatment (P<0.05), while the increase/decrease amplitude of the observation group was significantly greater than control group(P<0.05). After treatment, the QOL Acne scores in the observation group were significantly higher than control group(P<0.05). Conclusion: The efficacy of rb-bFGF assisted non-ablative fractional laser treatment for acne scars is certain, which can accelerate postoperative symptom recovery, improve scar condition and skin barrier function, and improve quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The biological behavior of mesenchymal stem cells is influenced by the survival microenvironment. Pre-treatment of the microenvironment is an important means of regulating the function of mesenchymal stem cells. OBJECTIVE: To compare the differences in paracrine function of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and adipose mesenchymal stem cells under oxidative stress and hypoxia, and to provide a theoretical basis for selecting appropriate pretreatment of mesenchymal stem cells to treat different diseases. METHODS: Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and adipose mesenchymal stem cells were cultured by H2O2 or O2 oxygen, respectively, and cell morphology, proliferation, viability and paracrine factor expression were examined. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and transforming growth factor-β were higher in umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells than in adipose mesenchymal stem cells under a normal culture environment, while the expressions of stromal cell-derived factor-1α and tumor necrosis factor stimulating factor-6 in the adipose mesenchymal stem cells were significantly higher than those in the umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. (2) There was no significant difference in the effect of low and moderate levels (≤ 100 μmol/L) of H2O2 on the viability of the two mesenchymal stem cells. However, increasing the H2O2 concentration from 50 μmol/L to 100 μmol/L resulted in a distinct increase in vascular endothelial growth factor expression in umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. The expression of basic fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, stromal cell-derived factor-1α and interleukin-10 in adipose mesenchymal stem cells was greatly increased by increasing H2O2 concentration in this range. (3) 1% O2 hypoxia promoted mesenchymal stem cell proliferation. After 24 hours of culture in 1% O2, gene expression levels were elevated in both mesenchymal stem cells, but the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor stimulating factor-6 were significantly higher in adipose mesenchymal stem cells than in umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. (4) It is concluded that hypoxia and oxidative stress preconditioning enhances the paracrine function of mesenchymal stem cells. However, mesenchymal stem cells respond differently to hypoxia and oxidative stress. Treating diseases can choose suitable mesenchymal stem cells for appropriate pretreatment to further enhance their therapeutic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To preliminarily predict the potential pathways and targets of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula in anti-atherosclerosis (AS) by network pharmacology analysis, and to verify its possible mechanism combined with in vitro cell experiment. Method: The databases including Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP), GeneCards, Swiss Target Prediction, and Uniprot were used to collect the information on active compounds and corresponding targets of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula to construct the “compound-target-disease” network. The potential targets and pathways were predicted by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and the intersection targets were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. The human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) were cultured and identified in vitro, and the abnormal proliferation of HA-VSMCs were induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein(ox-LDL) and identified; MTT method was used to detect the proliferation activities of the HA-VSMCs in various groups after treated with different concentrations of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula; the safety of Xiaoban Tongmai Fang was confirmed. The HA-VSMCs were divided into blank group, model group (the abnormal proliferation of HA-VSMCs was induced), rosuvastatin group (treated with 4 μmol·L-1 rosuvastatin after inducing the abnormal proliferation of HA-VSMCs), and low, medium, and high doses of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups (treated with 0. 025, 0. 050, and 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula after inducing the abnormal proliferation of HA-VSMCs); enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of monocyte chemotactic protein-1(MCP-1), interleukin-6(IL-6), and interleukin-8(IL-8) in supernatant of the HA-VSMCs in various groups; real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) method was used to detect the expression levels of nuclear factor kappa-B(NF- κB) p65 mRNA and fibroblast growth factors 2 (FGF2) mRNA in the HA-VSMCs in various groups; Western blotting method was used to detect the expression levels of NF- κB p65 and FGF2 proteins in the HA-VSMCs in various groups. Results: Xiaoban Tongmai Formula contained 103 active ingredients that exert anti-AS effect by acting on 189 target genes. The potential targets included IL-6, IL-8, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), nuclear factor kappa B1(NF-κB1), and RELA (NF-κB p65). The GO functional analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis results showed that Xiaoban Tongmai Formula exerted anti-AS effects by regulating lipid metabolism, hypoxia-inducible factor-1(HIF-1), epidermal growth factor (EGF), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt), and NF-κB signaling pathways. The cell morphology and immunofluorescence staining results confirmed that the cells were HA-VSMCs. The oil red O staining results showed numerous red lipid droplets, indicating successful modeling. The MTT assay results showed that Xiaoban Tongmai Formula had no significant effect on the proliferation rate of HA-VSMCs within a certain dose range, indicating good safety. The ELISA results showed that compared with model group, the levels of MCP-1 and IL-6 in supernatant of the HA-VSMCs in rosuvastatin group and different doses of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 05 or P<0. 01), and the levels of IL-8 in supernatant of the HA-VSMCs in 0. 050 and 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased(P<0. 01); compared with rosuvastatin group, the levels of MCP-1 in supernatant of the HA-VSMCs in different doses of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 01), and the levels of IL-8 in supernatant of the HA-VSMCs in 0. 050 and 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 01). Compared with model group, the expression levels of NF- κB p65 mRNA in the HA-VSMCs in rosuvastatin group and different doses of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 01), and the expression levels of FGF2 mRNA in the HA-VSMCs in rosuvastatin group and 0. 050 and 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 01); compared with rosuvastatin group, the expression levels of NF- κ B p65 and FGF2 mRNA in the HA-VSMCs in 0. 050 and 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 05 or P<0. 01). Compared with model group, the expression levels of NF-κB p65 and FGF2 proteins in the HA-VSMCs in rosuvastatin group and different doses of Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 01); compared with rosuvastatin group, the expression levels of NF- κ B p65 protein in the HA-VSMCs in 0. 050 and 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula groups were decreased (P<0. 01), and the expression level of FGF2 protein in the HA-VSMCs in 0. 100 mg·L-1 Xiaoban Tongmai Formula group was decreased (P<0. 01). Conclusion : Xiaoban Tongmai Formula has anti-inflammatory effect, inhibitory effect on the proliferation of HA-VSMCs, and anti-AS effect, and its mechanism may be related to the inactivation of NF-κB/FGF2 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that both Panax notoginseng saponins and concentrated growth factor can promote fracture healing, but there are few studies addressing their combined effects on fracture healing. Panax notoginseng saponins may accelerate fracture healing by promoting the release of concentrated growth factor-related factors over a certain period of time. OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of Panax notoginseng saponins on concentrated growth factor release and fracture healing in rats. METHODS: Eighteen 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were numbered and randomly divided into three groups: Panax notoginseng saponins group, model control group and blank group. Panax notoginseng saponins group was fed with Panax notoginseng saponins for 2 weeks. Model control group was given 2 mL of normal saline for 2 weeks and blank group was fed normally. Concentrated growth factor was obtained by the centrifugation method both from the Panax notoginseng saponins group and model control group. After 1 week of normal feeding, all animals underwent modeling for femoral fracture. The Panax notoginseng saponins group and the model control group were implanted with autologous concentrated growth factor, and then the release concentration of growth factors at different time points (1 hour, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 days) were measured by ELISA. Fracture healing was assessed based on postoperative X-ray and hematoxylin-eosin staining of bone tissues. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the model control group, the Panax notoginseng saponins group had higher release concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor A and transforming growth factor β at 7, 9, and 11 days, Platelet-derived growth factor BB at 5, 9, and 11 days, and basic fibroblast growth factor at 1-11 days (P < 0.01). X-ray examinations indicated that fracture healing in the Panax notoginseng saponins group was better than that in the model control group, and fracture healing in these two groups was better than that in the blank group at 2 months after surgery. Hematoxylin-eosin staining results found that the constituent osteocyte density in the Panax notoginseng saponins group was greater than that in the model control group, and the constituent osteocyte density in these two groups was better than that in the blank group. These findings indicate that Panax notoginseng saponins can increase the concentration of concentrated growth factor-related factors. After intervention with Panax notoginseng saponins, concentrated growth factors are more advantageous in promoting fracture healing in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To study the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) using the glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78)/CCAAT/enhancer binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) pathway and explore the related mechanism of Wenyang-Shengji ointment in facilitating the repair of diabetic refractory wounds. METHODS: To establish a rat model of diabetic refractory wound repair, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were fed a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin. Subsequently, full-thickness skin defects were induced in the dorsal region of the rats. The experiment included 4 groups: normal, model (diabetic refractory wounds), Wenyang-Shengji ointment, and Beifuxin (recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor gel) groups. The normal and model groups were treated with normal saline after disinfection. In the Wenyang-Shengji ointment and Beifuxin groups, the wounds were topically treated with the respective ointments once daily. After 14 d of treatment, wound healing was assessed and quantified using the wound healing rate. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was employed to examine the micromorphology of the wound tissue. Western blot analysis was performed to measure GRP78, CHOP and caspase-12 levels in the wound tissue. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to detect the expression and distribution patterns of GRP78, CHOP and caspase-12 in the wounds. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe reticulum numbers and swelling. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) level as a pro-inflammatory factor within the wound. RESULTS: Indexes of each group were assessed 14 d after the corresponding intervention. Compared with normal group, the rats in model group exhibited a significant decrease in the wound healing rate (P<0. 01), accompanied by increased inflammatory exudation and poor granulation tissue growth. Additionally, there were increases in the expression levels of GRP78, CHOP and caspase-12 proteins (P<0. 01), as well as a significant elevation in the content of inflammatory factor IL-1β (P<0. 01). In contrast, compared with model group, treatment with Wenyang-Shengji ointment resulted in a significant improvement in wound healing rate (P<0. 01), reduction in inflammatory exudation, and enhanced granulation tissue growth (P<0. 01). Furthermore, there was a notable decrease in the protein expression of GRP78/CHOP/caspase-12 within the wound tissue following treatment with Wenyang-Shengji ointment (P<0. 01). The levels of inflammatory factor IL-1β also showed a significant decrease (P<0. 01). CONCLUSION: Wenyang-Shengji promotes the healing of diabetic refractory wounds, which may be associated with the downregulation of the GRP78/CHOP pathway, inhibition of excessive ERS, and reduction in the level of wound cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A large number of studies have confirmed that exosomes can promote osteogenesis and vascularization. However, simple exosome therapy has problems such as poor targeting, and the content of loaded molecules cannot reach the therapeutic concentration. OBJECTIVE: To load exosomes into injectable gluconolactone-sodium alginate β-tricalcium phosphate-polyethylene glycol hydrogel, and observe the effect of the hydrogel on peri-implant bone defect in vivo and in vitro. METHODS: Exosomes were extracted from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and wrapped in injectable gluconolactone-sodium alginate β-tricalcium phosphate-polyethylene glycol hydrogel. (1) In vitro experiment: The hydrogel loaded with exosomes and the hydrogel without exosomes were cocultured with endothelial progenitor cells, and exosomes uptake experiment, tubule formation experiment, cell proliferation, migration ability, and angiogenic gene detection were carried out. (2) In vivo experiment: Twelve male New Zealand white rabbits were used to prepare two standard implant cavities and corresponding bone defects in the long axis of one femur. A hydrogel loaded with exosomes was implanted in the bone defect after an implant was implanted in a cavity at the proximal end of the implant (experimental group), and an unloaded exosome hydrogel was implanted in the bone defect after an implant was implanted in a cavity at the distal end of the implant (control group). At 3, 6 and 9 weeks after operation, bone defects with implants were removed and stained with hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining. Simultaneously, osteogenic and angiogenic genes were detected at 9 weeks after operation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) In vitro experiment: Exosomes could enter endothelial progenitor cells. The proliferation, migration, angiogenesis and gene (CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor) expression of endothelial progenitor cells in the hydrogel-loaded group were higher than those in the hydrogel-unloaded group (P < 0.05). (2) In vivo experiment: Hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining showed that at 3 weeks after operation, only a small amount of new bone was found in the two groups, and the material was partially degraded. At 6 weeks after operation, the amount of new bone in the two groups increased, and a large amount of new bone was found in the experimental group, with obvious calcium deposition. At 9 weeks after operation, compared with the control group, a large number of bone trabeculae thicker than mature were found in the experimental group, calcium salt deposition was more obvious, and a large number of osteoblasts were found around the bone trabeculae. The protein expressions of CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein 2, type I collagen and osteocalcin in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group at 9 weeks after operation (P < 0.05). (3) The exosome-loaded gluconolactone-sodium alginate β-tricalcium phosphate-polyethylene glycol hydrogel could promote the proliferation, migration and angiogenic differentiation of endothelial progenitor cells and promote the repair and regeneration of bone defects around implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the effect and mechanism of fibroblast growth factor 2（FGF2） knockout on proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of human breast cancer cell line MCF ‑ 7. Methods FGF2 ‑ sgRNA gene sequence was inserted into the vector lenticrispv2 to create CRISPR‑cas9‑FGF2 stably transfected cell line, and FGF2 knockout in the cell lines and related apoptotic protein and cyclin indicators were detected by using Western blot. MCF‑7 cells were separated into two groups： CRISPR‑cas9‑NC （control） and CRISPR‑cas9‑FGF2 （FGF2 knockout）. CCK‑8 assay and cell colony formation assay were used to detect cell proliferation ability, so were cell scratch assay and Transwell assay to detect cell migration and invasion ability, and flow cytometry to detect changes in cell cycles. Results （1） All three designed FGF2‑sgRNA sequences were successfully linked to the carrier lenticrispv2. Western blot showed that FGF2‑sgRNA1 knockout effect was more obvious （P < 0.000 1）. The cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion ability were markedly lowered in the FGF2 knockout group as compared with the control group （P < 0.01）. Expressions of Cyclin CDK2 and cyclinA were dramatically reduced （P < 0.001）, the expression of pro‑apoptotic protein Bax was increased （P < 0.001）, whereas the expression of anti‑apoptotic protein Bcl‑2 was decreased （P < 0.001）. A decline in the ratio of Bcl‑2/Bax promoted apoptosis. Conclusions FGF2 gene knockout significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells, blocked cells in the S phase, inhibited cell division, and promoted cell apoptosis, indicating that FGF2 gene has become a potential molecular target for breast cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The extract of Illicium henryi is a Chinese herbal preparation with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and invigorating blood circulation and stasis. Its ethanol extract has markedly curative effect on rat soft tissue injury. However, there is yet no report on whether Illicium henryi has therapeutic effect on osteoporotic fractures. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect of Illicium henryi extract on angiogenesis in osteoporotic fracture rats and to clarify its possible mechanism. METHODS: (1) In vivo experiments: A rat model of osteoporotic fracture was prepared using castration method and closed fracture method. A total of 36 healthy female Sprague-Dawley rats were selected, 30 of which were randomized into sham, model, and treatment groups, with 10 rabbits in each group, and the remaining 6 were included in the control group. Each rat in the treatment group was given 0.05 mL/kg Illicium henryi extract after modeling. The dual-energy X-ray and three-point bending mechanics methods were used to detect femoral bone mineral density and the end-point load of the femoral elastic segment. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to measure the number and area of blood vessels in bone calluses. ELISA was used to detect serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, and nitric oxide. (2) In vitro experiments: Human microvascular endothelial cells were given drug intervention. Treated cells were divided into control group, Illicium henryi extract (50, 100, or 200 mg/L) groups, Vector+dimethyl sulfoxide group, NRF1 overexpression group, LY294002 (10 μmol/L) treatment group, and NRF1 overexpression+LY294002 treatment group. MTT, Transwell, and angiogenesis assays were used to detect the proliferation, migration rate and angiogenesis of human microvascular endothelial cells, respectively. Western blot assay was used to detect the levels of NRF1, PI3K, p-PI3K, AKT, and p-AKT proteins in human microvascular endothelial cells. ELISA was used to detect the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, and nitric oxide in human microvascular endothelial cells. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Illicium henryi extract significantly improved the bone mineral density and maximum load of the femur in osteoporotic rats (P < 0.05), and increased the number and area of blood vessels in the callus tissue, and the serum levels of angiogenesis-related factors (P < 0.05). (2) Illicium henryi extract promoted the expression of NRF1, p-PI3K and p-AKT proteins in human microvascular endothelial cells (P < 0.05), and increased the proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and angiogenesis-related factor expressions of human microvascular endothelial cells (P < 0.05). Overexpression of NRF1 had the same effects, but LY294002 treatment reversed the effects of NRF1 overexpression. (3) To conclude, Illicium henryi extract can promote angiogenesis in osteoporotic fracture rats by increasing the expression of NRF1 protein and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In clinical work, western medicine has less treatment methods for skin-infected refractory wounds, while the treatment of skin wounds with traditional Chinese medicine has attracted more and more attention. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect and mechanism of stone balm on promoting the healing of skin-infected refractory wounds in rats. METHODS: A total of 15 male Sprague-Dawley rats were selected. Of these rats, 12 rats were used to establish animal models of skin-infected refractory wounds and then randomly divided into model group (no intervention), recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (rb-bFGF) group, low- and high-dose stone balm groups, with 3 rats in each group. Administration was performed every 48 hours. The remaining three rats were not given inoculation of bacteria, serving as blank control group. After 14 days of medication, wound healing was observed and pathological changes in wound tissue were observed under microscope. The levels of superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde in wound tissue were detected by ELISA, and the protein expressions of Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 in wound tissue were detected by western blot method. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 14 days of intervention, the wounds in each groups showed a healing state. Compared with the blank control group, the wound area was slightly smaller in the model group, but redness and swelling could still be seen. Compared with the model group, the wound area of were reduced in the rb-bFGF and high-dose stone balm groups, and wound redness and swelling was alleviated, while the wound area did not change significantly in the low-dose stone balm group but wound redness and swelling was also alleviated. Compared with the rb-bFGF group, the wound surface was significantly reduced in the high-dose Stone balm group, and the wound basically healed. Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that compared with the blank control and model groups, the number of sphacelus and inflammatory substances on the wound surface was significantly reduced in the rb-bFGF, low- and high-dose Stone balm groups, and a large number of collagen fibers and granulation tissue hyperplasia were observed. Compared with the rb-bFGF group, collagen fibers and granulation tissue were denser in high-dose Stone balm group. Compared with the model group, the levels of malondialdehyde were significantly lower in the rb-bFGF, low- and high-dose stone balm groups (P < 0.05), while the levels of superoxide dismutase were significantly higher (P < 0.05). The protein expressions of Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 were significantly higher in the rb-bFGF group than the model group (P < 0.05), and the protein expression of heme oxygenase 1 was significantly higher in the high- and low-dose stone balm groups than the model group (P < 0.05). To conclude, regulation of the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway induces the ARE antioxidant response element to produce heme oxygenase 1 protein and superoxide dismutase factor, while inhibiting the production of malondialdehyde and reducing cellular oxidative stress injury, which may be one of the possible mechanisms by which stone balm promotes wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Icariin can be used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, however, its high lipid solubility, poor water solubility, and obvious hepatic firstpass effect result in low bioavailability, which limits its clinical application. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of icariin combined with injectable chitosan/collagen composite hydrogel on myocardial infarction in rats. METHODS: Chitosan/collagen composite hydrogels loaded with different concentrations (0.4, 0.8, and 1.6 mg/mL) of icariin were prepared and marked as CS/COI/ICA0.4, CS/COI/ICA0.8, and CS/COI/ICA1.6, respectively. The cytocompatibility and sustained release performance of the hydrogels were tested. The left anterior descending artery of adult SD rats was ligated to establish a myocardial infarction model. Ninety-six myocardial infarction rat models were randomly divided into four groups (24 rats in each group): model, CS/COI/ICA0.4, CS/COI/ICA0.8, and CS/COI/ICA1.6 groups, and the infarct area, peri-infarct area and posterior wall area of rats in these four groups were injected with PBS or hydrogels. Normal rats were selected as normal controls. The experimental parameters were measured after 28 days of treatment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) In vitro cell experiments showed that chitosan/collagen composite hydrogels loaded with different concentrations of icariin had good cytocompatibility, which was beneficial to the proliferation and survival of cardiomyocytes. The release of icariin from all the three hydrogels kept for more than 32 days. (2) The animal experiments showed that the cardiac structure of rats in the model group was severely remodeled and the cardiac function was significantly decreased compared with the normal control group (P < 0.01). The CS/COI/ICA0.4, CS/COI/ICA0.8, and CS/COI/ICA1.6 groups had a significant improvement in cardiac structure and cardiac function compared with the model control group (P < 0.05), with the most significant improvement in the CS/COI/ICA1.6 group (P < 0.05). Masson staining showed that the degree of myocardial fibrosis in the CS/COI/ICA0.4, CS/COI/ICA0.8, and CS/COI/ ICA1.6 groups was significantly less (P < 0.05), while the thickness of ventricular wall was significantly greater compared with that in the model group (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction showed that the immunoreactivities of CD31 and α-smooth muscle actin and mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor were significantly decreased compared with the normal control group (all P < 0.05), while those were significantly increased in the CS/COI/ICA0.4, CS/COI/ICA0.8, and CS/COI/ICA1.6 groups compared with the model group (all P < 0.05). (3) These findings suggest that chitosan/collagen/icaricin composite hydrogels can stimulate angiogenesis by increasing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor in myocardial tissues in infracted areas to improve the local microenvironment of myocardial tissue due to insufficient perfusion, thereby inhibiting ventricular remodeling and improving cardiac function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the therapeutic effects of Kuntai capsule combined with mifepristone on perimenopausal dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) and its influence on the levels of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Methods: 88 patients with perimenopausal DUB who were treated in the gynaecological clinic of Hefei First People's Hospital from October 2021 to October 2022 were selected as the study subjects. They were divided into a study group and a control group by random data table method. 44 patients were included into each group. The patients in the two groups were treated with routine symptomatic treatment after entering the group. The patients in the control group were given oral mifepristone capsules, with the dosage of 10 mg each time, once a day. On the basis of the treatment in the control group, the patients in the study group were treated with Kuntai capsule orally, with the dosage of 2 g, three times a day. The patients in the two groups were treated with continuously for 3 months. The therapeutic indexes as well as the endometrial thickness, the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2), bFGF and VEGF before and after treatment for 3 months between the patients in the two groups were compared. The adverse events during treatment between the patients in the two groups were compared. Results: The distribution of efficacy grade in the study group was better than that in the control group, and the effective rate was higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the endometrial thickness and serum levels of sex hormone, bFGF and VEGF between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05). At the end of 3 months of treatment, the endometrial thickness and the serum levels of FSH, LH, PRL and E2 in the two groups were lower than those before treatment, and the serum levels of bFGF and VEGF were higher than those before treatment (P<0.05). The endometrial thickness and the serum levels of FSH, LH, PRL and E2 at the end of 3 months of treatment of the patients in the study group were lower than those in the control group, and the levels of bFGF and VEGF in serum were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). The adverse reactions in both groups were mild and could be tolerated by patients without treatment. There was no patient who interrupted treatment due to adverse reactions. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the incidence of various adverse events and the total incidence of adverse events (P>0.05). Conclusion: In the treatment of perimenopausal DUB, the traditional Chinese and western medicine treatment scheme of Kuntai capsule combined with mifepristone is superior to that of mifepristone alone in clinical efficacy, which can improve the serum hormone levels, inhibit endometrial hyperplasia and increase the expression levels of angiogenic factors such as bFGF, VEGF more significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Many recent studies have shown a close relationship between inflammatory cytokines and osteoporosis and bone mineral density (BMD). However, the causal relationship between inflammatory cytokines and BMD has not been fully revealed. OBJECTIVE: To explore the potential causal relationship between inflammatory cytokines and BMD using a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis. METHODS: The single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with 41 circulating inflammatory cytokines were selected from the open database of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) as instrumental variables. The GWAS data about BMD were from the Genetic Factors for Osteoporosis Consortium, involving a total of 32 735 individuals of European ancestry. Inverse variance weighting was used as the primary analysis to evaluate the causal effect. Weighted median, MR Egger regression, simple mode, and weighted mode methods were used to supplement the explanation. We used the MR-Egger intercept and MR-PRESSO method to conduct a pleiotropy test, the Cochran’s Q test was used to determine whether there was heterogeneity in the results, and the leave-one-out method was used to evaluate the stability of the results. In addition, to more accurately assess the causality, the Bonferroni-corrected test was used to identify inflammatory cytokines that have a strong causal relationship with BMD. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) According to the results of the inverse variance weighting method, we found a positive causal relationship between interleukin-8 and lumbar spine BMD [β=0.075, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.033-0.117, P=0.000 5), while a negative causal relationship between interleukin-17 and lumbar spine BMD (β=-0.083, 95% CI: -0.152 to -0.014, P=0.018). There might be a negative causal relationship between tumor necrosis factor b and femoral neck BMD (β=-0.053, 95% CI: -0.088 to -0.018, P=0.003), while a positive causal relationship between basic fibroblast growth factor and femoral neck BMD (β=0.085, 95% CI: 0.016-0.154, P=0.015). There might be a negative causal relationship between macrophage inflammatory protein-1a and total body BMD (β=-0.056, 95% CI: -0.105 to -0.007, P=0.025). There was a negative causal relationship between interleukin-5 (β=-0.019, 95% CI: -0.031 to -0.006, P=0.004), stromal cell-derived factor-1a (β=-0.022, 95% CI: -0.038 to -0.005, P=0.010), hepatocyte growth factor (β=-0.021, 95% CI: -0.041 to -0.002, P=0.030), interleukin-4 (β=-0.016, 95% CI: -0.032 to -0.001, P=0.034) and heel BMD, while a positive causal relationship between nerve growth factor (β=0.019, 95% CI: 0.002-0.036, P=0.033), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (β=0.011, 95% CI: 0.000-0.022, P=0.050), and heel BMD. Meanwhile, after the Bonferroni-corrected test, there was a strong positive causal effect between interleukin-8 and lumbar spine BMD (P=0.000 5). And consistent directional effects for all analyses were observed in MR Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode methods. (2) Sensitivity analyses revealed no heterogeneity, pleiotropy, or outliers for the causal effect of circulating inflammatory cytokines on BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract BACKGROUND: Myocardial ischemia is one of the main causes of cardiac function impairment after myocardial infarction. Notch is involved in the process of angiogenesis, but whether Notch intracellular domain (NICD)/Hes1 is involved in myocardial angiogenesis after myocardial infarction has not been studied. OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of NICD /Hes1 pathway on cardiac function and angiogenesis in the ischemic myocardium of myocardial infarction mice with the aid of RO4929097, a Notch γ secretase inhibitor. METHODS: C57BL/6 mice were randomized into sham, model and RO4929097 groups, with 10 mice in each group. Myocardial infarction model was established in the latter two groups by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery of C57BL/6 mice. Mice in the RO4929097 group were administered RO4929097 by gavage at the dose of 10 mg/(kg·d) on day 2 after surgery, and those in the sham and model groups were given an equal volume of saline by gavage for 20 days. On day 21, mice were examined by ultrasound for left ventricular ejection fraction, Matson staining for myocardial infarct area and pathohistological changes and immunofluorescence for CD31 in ischemic myocardium. Enzyme-linked immunofluorescence was used to detect the levels of serum vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, cardiotrophin 1, NICD and Hes1 in myocardial tissue. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The left ventricular ejection fraction value in the model group was significantly lower than that in the sham group (P < 0.001), while compared with the model group, the left ventricular ejection fraction value was significantly lowered in the RO4929097 group (P < 0.05). Masson staining revealed an significantly increased infarct size in the model group and RO4929097 group compared with the sham group (P < 0.001) as well as an obviously increased infarct size in the RO4929097 group compared with the model group (P < 0.05). The mean absorbance value of CD31 significantly increased in the model group compared with the sham group (P < 0.001) and significantly decreased in the RO4929097 group compared with the model group (P < 0.001). Compared with the sham group, the levels of serum vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor significantly increased in the model and RO4929097 groups (P < 0.05); and the levels of these two factors were significantly higher in the RO4929097 group than the model group (P < 0.01). The protein expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, cardiotrophin 1 were significantly increased in the model group compared with the sham group (P < 0.01) but decreased in the RO492909 group. The protein expression of NICD significantly increased in the model group compared with the sham group (P < 0.01) but decreased in the RO492909 group compared with the model group (P < 0.01). Compared with the sham group, the level of Hes1 was significantly decreased in the RO492909 group (P < 0.05). To conclude, RO4929097 may decrease NICD/Hes1 expression by inhibiting Notchγ secretase activity, thereby reducing ischemic myocardial revascularization and decreasing left ventricular ejection fraction in mice with myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric cancer is a prevalent malignant neoplasm globally, characterized by insidious onset, lack of specific clinical manifestations, and a tendency for patients to present at advanced stages with poor prognosis. Therefore, the quest for highly specific and sensitive biomarkers to assist in diagnosis, guide treatment, and predict prognosis holds paramount significance. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), consisting of cell-free DNA fragments released by tumor cells into the plasma, carries tumor-specific genetic features and epigenetic alterations. In comparison to conventional tissue biopsies, ctDNA offers numerous advantages. It enables the capture of tumor genomic profiles from minimally invasive blood samples, overcomes tumor heterogeneity, and allows for dynamic monitoring of treatment response and prediction of recurrence risk. In the realm of early diagnosis, researchers have developed a detection method called CancerSEEK by combining peripheral blood ctDNA mutations with protein markers, achieving a sensitivity of over 69% in the early detection of gastric, esophageal and pancreatic cancers. Another study utilized a combined detection of 153 methylated DNA sites to diagnose stage Ⅰ, Ⅱ, and Ⅲ gastric cancer with sensitivities of 44%, 59% and 78%, respectively, and a specificity of 92%. Regarding treatment guidance, ctDNA testing facilitates the selection of gastric cancer patients who may benefit from targeted therapies against human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR 2) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Furthermore, immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy has become the standard treatment regimen for advanced gastric cancer. Evaluating microsatellite status, tumor mutation burden and EB virusassociated gastric cancer through ctDNA analysis can predict the efficacy of immunotherapy. However, specific gene mutations such as TGFBR2, RHOA and PREX2 indicate a poor response to immunotherapy. For gastric cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant or palliative chemotherapy, the dynamic changes in ctDNA copy number instability, copy number variation and mutation allele frequency load during chemotherapy significantly correlate with treatment efficacy. Dynamic monitoring through ctDNA analysis is beneficial for timely adjustment of treatment strategies before imaging changes occur. In the realm of predicting recurrence and prognosis, research has shown that minimal residual disease (MRD) may be the primary cause of post-treatment relapse in patients with locally advanced cancer, which has been confirmed through follow-up studies in breast, lung and colorectal cancers. The utilization of ctDNA testing to detect postoperative MRD in gastric cancer has revealed that ctDNA positivity at any time point during follow-up is associated with an increased risk of recurrence. Furthermore, patients with ctDNA-positive results experience shorter disease-free survival and overall survival, with a median lead time of 4.5 to 6.0 months compared to radiographic recurrence. Additionally, ctDNA analysis has shown correlations between TP53 mutations, MET amplification, THBS1 and TIMP-3 methylation, and tumor progression or peritoneal metastasis, indicating similarly poor prognosis. Despite the tremendous potential of ctDNA as a minimally invasive biomarker for tumor screening and monitoring, its application in gastric cancer still faces certain limitations and challenges. This article provided a comprehensive review of the current status and prospects of ctDNA in the field of gastric cancer.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective : To investigate the relationship between serum fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and neonatal outcome in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: 147 pregnant women at 24 to 28 weeks of gestation who were examined in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2022 were selected, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was conducted for all patients. According to the OGTT results, they were divided into GDM group (n=86) and non-GDM group (n=61). GDM group was divided into poor group (n=21) and good group (n=65) according to neonatal outcome. The serum FGF2, FGF21, FGF23 levels and neonatal outcome in the non-GDM group and the GDM group were compared. Serum FGF2, FGF21 and FGF23 levels in the poor group and the good group were compared. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the influencing factors of neonatal outcome in patients with GDM. Results: The serum FGF2, FGF21 and FGF23 levels in the GDM group were higher than those in the non-GDM group (P<0.05). The overall incidence of adverse neonatal outcome in the GDM group was higher than that in the non-GDM group (P<0.05). The serum FGF2, FGF21 and FGF23 levels in the poor group were higher than those in the good group (P<0.05). Univariate analysis showed that adverse neonatal outcome in patients with GDM were related to age, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), pre-delivery BMI, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2h post-meal blood glucose (2hPG), fasting insulin (FINS) and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) (P<0.05). The results of multivariate analysis showed that higher age, higher FPG, higher pre-pregnancy BMI, higher 2hPG, higher pre-delivery BMI, higher HOMA-IR, higher FGF2, higher FINS, higher FGF21 and higher FGF23 were all risk factors for poor neonatal outcome in patients with GDM (P<0. 05). Conclusion: The serum FGF2, FGF21 and FGF23 levels in patients with GDM are elevated, which together with higher age, pre-pregnancy BMI, pre-delivery BMI, FPG, 2hPG, FINS and HOMA-IR are risk factors for adverse neonatal outcome in patients with GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The development of tissue engineering technology provides new ideas for the repair and reconstruction of bone defects, but the problem of vascularization restricts the clinical application of tissue engineered bone. Platelet-derived growth factor can promote the formation of blood vessels in bone tissue while promoting the formation of bone cells. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of polycaprolactone /β-tricalcium phosphate/platelet-derived growth factor BB (PCL/β-TCP/PDGF BB) scaffold on osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and proliferation and adhesion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro, as well as the effect of its application in animal bone defects. METHODS: (1) Polycaprolactone/β-tricalcium phosphate scaffolds were prepared by 3D rapid prototyping machine, and the scaffolds were immersed in platelet-derived growth factor BB solution to prepare PCL/β-TCP/PDGF BB scaffold. (2) In vitro experiment: Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were inoculated on two kinds of scaffolds, respectively, to detect the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, and to detect the proliferation, adhesion and angiogenic gene expression of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. (3) In vivo experiment: 21 adult rats were taken to establish a bilateral tibial defect model. The experimental group (n=7) was implanted with PCL/β-TCP/PDGF BB scaffolds; the control group (n=7) was implanted with PCL/β-TCP scaffolds; the blank group (n=7) was not implanted with scaffolds. At 12 weeks after operation, micro-CT scanning, bone histomorphological observation, and gene detection of osteogenesis and angiogenesis were performed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) In vitro experiment: Compared with PCL/β-TCP scaffold, PCL/β-TCP/PDGF BB scaffold could promote the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, promote the proliferation and adhesion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and promote vascular endothelial growth factor and CD31 mRNA expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. (2) In vivo experiments: Micro-CT scans exhibited that bone defects were obvious in the blank group. A large amount of new bone tissue was visible in both control and experimental groups. The repair effect of the experimental group was more clear. Hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson and safranin fast green staining displayed that there was no obvious bone tissue formation in the blank group. In the control group, a large amount of mature bone matrix and relatively less immature cartilage tissue were detectable. In the experimental group, a large amount of osteoid tissue and mature cartilage tissue were seen, and most of the medullary cavity was recanalized. RT-PCR detection showed that the mRNA expression levels of bone morphogenetic protein 2, basic fibroblast growth factor, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, vascular endothelial growth factor and CD31 in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). (3) It is concluded that compared with PCL/β-TCP scaffold, PCL/β-TCP/PDGF BB scaffold promoted the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, the proliferation, adhesion and expression of angiogenic genes of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and promoted the repair of bone defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the effect of targeted therapy combined with interventional therapy on the efficacy and long-term recurrence rate of advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Methods: 220 patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer admitted to our hospital from January 2017 to December 2019 were selected as the study subjects for retrospective analysis. According to the different treatment methods selected by the patients, 110 patients who chose simple PP regimen chemotherapy were divided into matched group, and 110 patients who chose targeted therapy combined with 125I radioactive particle implantation on the basis of PP regimen chemotherapy were divided into observation group, The survival of the two groups, the levels of angiogenic factors and tumor markers before and after treatment for 3 months, the 1-year, 2-year and 3-year recurrence rates and adverse reactions were compared. Results: The median PFS of the observation group was 11.26 (2.38-24.13), and the median PFS of the matched group was 9.25 (2.24-17.22). The observation group was higher than the matched group(x² =4.536, P=0.041), as shown in Figure 1A. The median OS of the observation group was 21.23 (4.84~62.73), and the median OS of the matched group was 16.52 (5.27~50.27). The observation group was higher than the matched group, and the difference was statistically significant（x² =5.262, P=0.022); There was no difference in the levels of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiogenesis factor, human cytokeratin 21-1 fragment (Cyfra21-1) and carbohydrate antigen 125(CA125) tumor markers between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05), After treatment, the levels of bFGF, VEGF angiogenesis factor, CA125 and Cyfra21-1 tumor markers in the two groups were lower than those in the matched group (P<0.05); The long-term total recurrence rate of patients in the observation group was lower than that in the matched group (P<0. 05); There was no difference in the adverse reactions of 0~II and III~IV between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Targeted therapy combined with 125I radioactive particle implantation can improve the survival and progression-free survival of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer on the basis of conventional chemotherapy, improve the level of inflammatory markers in patients, reduce the long-term recurrence rate, and have high safety, which is worthy of clinical promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the expression of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and transient receptor potential channel 1 (TRPC1) in patients with schizophrenia and their correlation with psychiatric symptoms. Methods A total of 200 schizophrenic patients admitted to the hospital from July 2019 to June 2022 and 200 normal people who underwent physical examination were selected as the observation group and control group, respectively. General data were collected and serum FGF2 expression levels were detected by enzyme ⁃linked immunosorbent assay. The TRPC1 level was detected by WD ⁃3000 automatic hematology analyzer and immunocolorimetry. The Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) was used to evaluate psychiatric symptoms. The correlation between FGF2, TRPC1 and psychiatric symptoms was analyzed by Pearson method. The diagnostic value of serum FGF2 and TRPC1 levels in schizophrenia was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results The expression level of TRPC1 in serum of observation group was lower than that of control group, and the expression level of FGF2 was higher than that of control group (P < 0.05); The total PANSS score, positive score, negative score and general symptom score in observation group were higher than those in control group (P < 0.05); serum FGF2 expression in patients with schizophrenia was positively correlated with total PANSS score, positive score, negative score and general symptom score, while TRPC1 expression was negatively correlated with total PANSS score, positive score, negative score and general symptom score (P < 0.05). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of serum FGF2 and TRPC1 levels in predicting schizophrenia patients was 0.928 and 0.911, respectively, the corresponding sensitivity was 84.00% and 89.50%, and the specificity was 89.00% and 86.50%, respectively; the AUC of the two combined detection of schizophrenia patients was 0.969, and the sensitivity and specificity were 94.50% and 90.00%, respectively. Conclusion The serum level of FGF2 and TRPC1 in patients with schizophrenia is significantly increased, and the serum levels of FGF2 and TRPC1 are closely related to the psychiatric symptoms of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Due to the particularity of the ear structure, the skin at the auricle injury usually has poor motion range and tissue regeneration ability, and it is difficult to heal. Therefore, how to accelerate the wound healing and obtain an ideal repair effect has always been a problem and research hotspot in the field of surgery. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of Sanhuang gel on the wound healing, basic fibroblast growth factor and interleukin 17 levels of auricle skin defect in rabbits. METHODS: Sixty male New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into six groups (n=10 per group). In group A, no treatment was given. In groups B-F, a circular skin defect area with the diameter of 1 cm was made in the auricle. In group B, the wound was injected with physiological saline. In group C, the wound was coated with asiaticoside cream ointment. In group D, the wound was coated with Sanhuang gel. In group E, the wound was injected with PI3K/AKT agonist 740 Y-P. In group F, the wound was coated with Sanhuang gel and injected with 740 Y-P. The treatment was performed twice a day, for 30 consecutive days. The wound healing of rabbit ear was observed and recorded, and the pathological morphology of ear tissue was detected by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The mRNA relative expression levels of basic fibroblast growth factor and interleukin 17 in rabbit ear tissue were detected by real-time PCR. The protein expression of PI3K/AKT pathway in rabbit ear tissue was detected by western blot assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) After treatment, the skin wound healing speed was accelerated. After 30 days of treatment, the wound healing rate of Sanhuang gel and PI3K/AKT agonist alone was higher than that of asiaticoside cream ointment, and the combined application of the two had the highest wound healing rate. (2) Hematoxylin-eosin staining results showed that the epidermis of group B was significantly thickened and blood vessels were dilated; and a large number of infiltrated inflammatory cells and fibrous tissue hyperplasia were seen. Compared with group B, the morphology of groups C, D, E, and F was significantly improved, and new capillaries and numerous proliferated fibroblasts and endothelial cells were seen. Among them, group F had the most obvious improvement. (3) RT-PCR detection showed that the relative expression of basic fibroblast growth factor mRNA decreased and the relative expression of interleukin 17 mRNA increased after auricular skin injury. After different treatments, the relative mRNA expression of the two factors was improved to varying degrees. The improvement effect of Sanhuang gel and PI3K/AKT agonist alone was stronger than that of asiaticoside cream ointment, and the improvement effect of their combination was strongest. (4) Western blot assay showed that the expression of PI3K, AKT, p-PI3K, and p-AKT proteins decreased after auricular skin injury. The expression levels of the four proteins increased to varying degrees after different treatments. The elevating effect of Sanhuang gel and PI3K/ AKT agonist alone was stronger than that of asiaticoside cream ointment, and the elevating effect of their combination was strongest. (5) The results show that Sanhuang gel can promote the wound healing of auricular skin defects, and its mechanism may be associated with the activation of PI3K/AKT pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of moist exposed bum ointment combined with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) on nerve conduction velocity, angiogenesis of ulcer wound and oxidative stress in patients with diabetes foot ulcer (DFU). Methods: 80 patients with DFU who were admitted in our hospital from January 2021 to May 2022 were selected, and they were divided into control group (n=40) and study group (n-40) according to envelope drawing. Both groups of patients received basic treatment during hospitaliza- tion. On this basis, the control group received VSD treatment, and the study group received moist exposed burn ointment treatment on the basis of the control group. The changes of clinical indexes, quality of life, nerve conduction velocity, angiogenesis of ulcer wound and oxidative stress level were observed in the two groups. Results: The wound healing rate in the study group was higher than that in the control group, and the wound healing time was shorter than that in the control group (P<0.05). The ankle-brachial index (ABI) in the study group after treatment was higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). The scores of each dimension of the Short-Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) in the study group after treatment were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). The common peroneal nerve sen- sory-nerve conduction velocity (SCV), common peroneal nerve motor-nerve conduction velocity (MCV), median nerve MCV and medi- an nerve SCV in the study group after treatment were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Endostatin (ES) in the study group after treatment was lower than that in the control group, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the study group were higher than those in the control group(P<0.05). The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced pro- tein oxidation product (AOPP) in the study group after treatment were lower than those in the control group, and the superoxide dismu- tase (SOD) in the study group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The application of moist exposed burn ointment combined with VSD in patients with DFU can promote wound healing, improve nerve conduction velocity and quality of life, which may be related to the regulation of oxidative stress level and the promotion of angiogenesis of ulcer wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the clinical application value of recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (r-bFGF) eye gel as comeal protective agent in pterygium surgery. Methods: 100 patients with pterygium surgery who were admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 were selected, and they were divided into control group (n=50) and study group (n=50) according to the random number table method. Pterygium excision combined with conjunctival flap transfer was used in all operations. The control group received routine treatment during operation, and the study group was combined with r-bFGF eye gel on the basis of the control group. The operation effect, ocular surface related indicators, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, adverse reactions and incidence of complications were compared in the two groups. Results: The visual pain simulation score (VAS) and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) in the two groups at 3 months after operation decreased, tear film rupture time (BUT) and basic tear secretion test (SIT) increased (P<0.05). The VAS and OSDI in the study group at 3 months after operation were lower than those in the control group, and BUT and SIT were higher than those in control group (P<0.05). The visual acuity in the two groups at 3 months after operation increased, and the intraocular pressure decreased (P<0.05). The visual acuity in the study group at 3 months after operation was higher than that in the control group, and the intraocular pressure was lower than that in the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions in two groups (P>0.05). The clinical cure rate in study group was significantly higher than that in control group (P<0.05). The complication rate in the study group was lower than that in control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor eye gel can be used as comeal protective agent in pterygium surgery, which can reduce the postoperative pain of pterygium patients, improve the symptoms of canthus, visual acuity and intraocular pressure, and obtain a better clinical cure rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Similar to the human induced embryonic stem cells, human induced pluripotent stem cell is a kind of pluripotent stem cells. By virtue of the differentiation potential of three germ layers and self-renewal ability, it could serve as a means to generate a scalable source of cells for therapeutic applications. OBJECTIVE: To establish a protocol for the directed differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into functional endothelial cells. METHODS: The authenticity of human induced pluripotent stem cells was verified by the immunofluorescence method. Human induced pluripotent stem cells were then differentiated into cardiac mesoderm, endothelial progenitor cells and finally functional endothelial cells through the manipulation of signaling pathways using recombinant transcription factors and small molecule compounds by adding activin A, GSK pathway inhibitor CHIR99021/bone morphogenetic protein 4, fibroblast growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor/bone morphogenetic protein 4, basic fibroblast growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor/CHIR99021 on days 0, 1, 2, and 5 sequentially. The induced endothelial cells were characterized by the morphology and the expression of endothelial cells-specific markers using brightfield microscope, real-time quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence method. Moreover, the tube formation assay was performed to test the angiogenetic ability of induced endothelial cells. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The human induced pluripotent stem cells expressed high-levels of the induced pluripotent stem cell-specific markers (OCT4, NANOG, and SSEA4) and self-renewal marker (Ki67) as well. (2) The human induced pluripotent stem cells were successfully induced sequentially into to cardiac mesoderm cells, endothelial progenitor cells and final typical endothelial cells. (3) Real-time quantitative PCR results showed that with the progression of the differentiation, endothelial progenitor cell markers (KDR and CD34) were increased, and then gradually decreased; and endothelial cell markers (VE-CADHERIN, ICAM1 and PECAM1) were gradually increased. Immunofluorescence at the protein level further confirmed the increasing trend of endothelial cell marker expression. (4) Tube formation assay showed that the number of endothelial cells-generated blood vessels increased with the increase of the concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor. (5) It is concluded that an experimental protocol for the directed differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into endothelial cells has been successfully established, which is expected to provide a cellular basis and experimental basis for future blood vessel construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of West China Journal of Stomatology is the property of Sichuan University, West China College of Stomatology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BACKGROUND: At present, there are many clinical reports of rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, but its mechanism is not very clear. OBJECTIVE: To compare and analyze the effects of rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and rituximab in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and changes in the levels of related factors. METHODS: 96 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma were selected, including 62 males and 34 females, aged 20-75 years. Among them, 48 cases were treated with rituximab combined chemotherapy (control group), and the other 48 cases were treated with rituximab combined chemotherapy and autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (trial group). The clinical efficacy and adverse reactions of the two groups were compared. The survival time of the patients was followed up and recorded. Before treatment, after 6 cycles of chemotherapy and 6 months after transplantation, the serum vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor and interleukin-17 levels were detected in both groups. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Adequate peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cells were collected in the experimental group. The number of CD34+ cells transfused back was (3.6±0.6)×106 /kg. After transfusion, the time of neutrophil implantation was (11.1±1.2) days, and the time of platelet implantation was (12.3±2.4) days. (2) The effective rate of treatment in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (81%, 56%, P < 0.05). (3) From the beginning of definite diagnosis to the end of follow-up, the survival rate was 79% and the progression-free survival rate was 50% in the trial group. The survival rate was 56% and the progression-free survival rate was 31% in the control group. The difference in survival rate and progression-free survival rate between the two groups was significant (P < 0.05). (4) There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P > 0.05). (5) There was no significant difference in the levels of three kinds of cytokines between the two groups before treatment and after 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Compared with before treatment, the levels of interleukin-17 increased (P < 0.05), and the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor decreased after 6 cycles of chemotherapy (P < 0.05). Compared with that after 6 cycles of chemotherapy, the level of interleukin-17 in the trial group increased 6 months after transplantation (P < 0.05), and the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor decreased (P < 0.05), and there was no significant change in the levels of three kinds of cytokines in the control group (P < 0.05). (6) It is concluded that rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation can improve the survival of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of interleukin 17, vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of West China Journal of Stomatology is the property of Sichuan University, West China College of Stomatology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BACKGROUND: Current surgical methods do not provide a long-term solution for meniscus regeneration and replacement, but tissue engineering techniques can provide alternative therapeutic strategies. OBJECTIVE: To review the clinical strategy and tissue engineering research status of meniscus injury repair. METHODS: The literature collected on PubMed database, Medline database, Google academic database, CNKI, and Wanfang was searched by computer. Keywords were “meniscus injury; tissue engineering; meta-analysis; allografts; meniscus repair; scaffold; polymers; hydrogels; polyurethane; intestinal submucosa; polycaprolactone; polylactic; self-assembly; bone marrow MSC; meniscus derived stem cells; synovium derived MSCs; adipose derived MSC; coculture; growth factor; transforming growth factor beta; basic fibroblast growth factor; insulin growth factor” in English, and “meniscus; mesenchymal stem cells; scaffold; growth factor; tissue engineering; compression modulus; tensile modulus; hydrogels; electrospinning” in Chinese. Retrieval period was from January 1, 2005 to October 1, 2020. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: As a hot research direction of meniscus treatment, meniscus tissue engineering has achieved abundant research results in all aspects, but there is a lack of a large number of long-term clinical trials to verify the accuracy of the conclusions. Biomolecules are indispensable tools in tissue engineering. At present, more human or animal experiments are needed to determine the exact action signal pathway of different biomolecules, the optimal concentration and combination mode of application, and the delivery mode of biomolecules. Although many kinds of stem cells with the phenotypic differentiation potential of meniscus have been found, the role of various stem cells in tissue engineering is still to be further studied, and the most dominant stem cell type or most suitable for meniscus tissue engineering is still controversial. Simultaneously, meniscus is similar to articular cartilage and intervertebral disc in terms of cell composition, extracellular matrix composition and biomechanical properties, and the repair and regeneration strategies of articular cartilage and intervertebral disc have also attracted much attention. Research progress in similar fields can learn from each other and promote each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: As one of the effective angiogenic factors, basic fibroblast growth factor can not only increase the blood perfusion of ischemic tissues and accelerate the regeneration of tissue microvessels, but also improve the formation of blood vessels in muscle tissues and increase the blood perfusion of muscles. OBJECTIVE: Basic fibroblast growth factor was incorporated into poly(lactic acid)/collagen scaffold to repair rabbit urethral defects and to improve the ability of tissue engineered scaffolds to induce urethral regeneration. METHODS: The electrospun poly(lactic acid)/collagen urethral scaffold and the electrospun poly(lactic acid)/collagen scaffold loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor were prepared and named as control scaffold and experimental scaffold, respectively. The in vitro release properties of the scaffolds were tested. The third passage of rabbit adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells was seeded on the two scaffolds for 7 days. CCK-8 assay, cell adhesion test, and cell livedead staining were performed respectively. Twenty-four adult male New Zealand white rabbits were used to establish a 5 cm long urethral defect model and randomly divided into two groups (n=12). The control scaffold + adipose derived mesenchymal stem cell complex and the experimental scaffold + adipose derived mesenchymal stem cell complex were implanted, respectively. At 12 and 24 weeks after operation, retrograde urethrography and histology were performed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) In vitro sustained release experiment: Basic fibroblast growth factor was released at an average rate of 2.5 ng/d in the first 6 days, 1.52 ng/d from the seventh to fourteenth days, and 1.12 ng/d thereafter. The release rate gradually decreased after 21 days. (2) In vitro cell experiments showed that the cell proliferation rate on the experimental scaffold was faster than that on the control scaffold (P < 0.05). Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells could adhere to the surfaces of the two scaffolds, grow well and protrude pseudopodia, among which the cells on the experimental scaffold proliferated rapidly. The survival rate of the cells on the experimental scaffolds was higher than that of the control scaffold (P < 0.05). (3) In vivo experimental results: At 24 weeks postoperatively, urethral angiography exhibited that there was no urethral stricture in the experimental scaffold group, and mild urethral stricture was seen in the control scaffold group. Histological observation demonstrated that at 24 weeks after operation, there was a thick and complete epithelial layer in the experimental scaffold group, with a large number of muscle fiber bundles and blood vessels. In the control scaffold group, there was a thin epithelial layer, with a small number of muscle fiber bundles and blood vessels. (4) The results confirm that electrospun poly(lactic acid)/collagen scaffold loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor for repairing rabbit urethral defects could promote local angiogenesis, improve local urethral microenvironment and promote urethral regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the curative effect of Cangsha Baijie decoction combined with GnRH-a in the treatment of uterine leiomyoma and its effect on ovarian function, serum bFGF and NF-κB levels. Methods: 110 patients with uterine fibroids treated in our hospital from May 2019 to May 2021 were selected as the research objects, and the patients were divided into observation group and control group, 55 cases in each group. The control group received GnRH-a treatment, and the observation group received Cangsha Baijie Decoction combined with GnRH-a treatment. The total effective rate of clinical treatment, progesterone (P) level, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level, estradiol (E2) level, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) level, matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP-3) level, nuclear factor-κB subtype P65 (NF-κB P65 ) levels, tumor-specific growth factor (TSGF) levels. Results: The total effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group (P<0.05); there was no difference in the levels of P, FSH, and E2 between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05), and the levels of P, FSH, and E2 in the two groups decreased after treatment, and the observation group was lower than the control group (P<0.05); the levels of VEGF, bFGF and MMP-3 in the two groups had no difference before treatment (P>0.05), and the levels of VEGF, bFGF and MMP-3 in the two groups after treatment The levels of NF-κB P65 and TSGF in the two groups had no difference before treatment (P>0.05), and the levels of NF-κB P65 and TSGF in the two groups after treatment All decreased, and the observation group was lower than the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Using Cangsha Baijie Decoction combined with GnRH-a in the treatment of uterine fibroids can improve the clinical therapeutic effect, regulate the level of sex hormones, improve the levels of VEGF, bFGF, MMP-3, NF-κB P65, and TSGF, and is worthy of clinical promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effect of Ginkgo biloba extract injection combined with conventional treatment on angiogenesis and establishment of collateral circulation after acute cerebral infarction. Methods: A total of 80 patients with acute cerebral infarction admitted to our hospital from March 2018 to December 2021 were selected and divided into control group and observation group by random number table method, with 40 cases in each group. The patients in the control group received conventional treatment according to the guidelines, and the patients in the observation group received Ginkgo biloba extract injection on the basis of the control group. After 28 days of treatment, the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiogenin (Ang) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were observed in the two groups of patients. /SIR) collateral circulation classification, National Institutes of Health Neurological Impairment Scale (NIHSS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Modified Rankin (mRS) score, and adverse reactions. Results: After treatment, the serum VEGF, Ang and bFGF levels, MoCA and MMSE scores of the two groups were all increased compared with those before treatment, the ASITN/SIR collateral circulation grades were improved, and the NIHSS scores were all decreased compared with those before treatment, with significant differences. Statistically significant (P<0.05). Serum VEGF [(52.31±11.59) pg/mL vs. (43.15±9.37) pg/mL], Ang[(23.15±4.57) ng/mL vs. (19.35±3.78) ng/mL] in the observation group after treatment and bFGF [(16.31±4.11) ng/L vs. (13.08±3.42) ng/L] levels, MoCA scores [(28.15±1.02) points vs. (25.34±2.69) points], MMSE scores [(27.42±2.03) ) score vs. (24.43±3.72) points] was significantly higher than that of the control group, ASITN/SIR collateral circulation grade was better than that of the control group, NIHSS score [(8.12±2.03) points vs. (11.24±2.68) points], mRS score [(2.01±0.69) points vs. (3.75±0.85) points] was lower than that of the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the observation group and the control group [7.50% (3/40) vs. 10.00% (4/40), P>0. 05]. Conclusion: Ginkgo biloba extract injection can promote the regeneration of blood vessels and the establishment of collateral circulation in acute cerebral infarction, and improve the neurological and cognitive functions and prognosis of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: More and more evidences demonstrate that nerve growth factor plays important roles in promoting neuronal survival and differentiation. However, nerve growth factor has a short half-life and poor stability, which limits its wide clinical application. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to differentiate into neuronal cells on chitosan/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/polylactic acid scaffolds that can continuously release nerve growth factors. METHODS: Chitosan/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/polylactic acid scaffolds that sustainably released nerve growth factor and chitosan/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/polylactic acid scaffolds that did not contain nerve growth factor were constructed, and rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were inoculated on the surface of two kinds of scaffolds. The induction program of basic fibroblast growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and N2 and B27 nerve cell growth additives added to the low-glucose DMEM complete medium was used to induce neurogenesis and differentiation. After 18 days of induction, immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression of neuronal markers (microtubule-associated protein 2 and nestin), and western blot assay was utilized to determine the expression of p-TrkA and p-ERK proteins. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) After 18 consecutive days of induction, immunofluorescence detection displayed that the microtubule-associated protein 2-positive cells were approximately 30% in the blank scaffold group, and approximately 70% in the sustained release nerve growth factor group. Nestinpositive cells were 40% in the blank scaffold group, and approximately 60% in the sustained release nerve growth factor group. The difference between the two groups was significant. (2) Western blot assay exhibited that the expression levels of p-TrkA and p-ERK in the sustained release nerve growth factor group were significantly higher than those of the blank scaffold group. (3) The results have confirmed that on the surface of the chitosan/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/polylactic acid scaffold that continuously releases nerve growth factor, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can achieve better differentiation of neuronal cells through the TrkA/ERK pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Effective intervention for the mechanism of insufficient cell activity of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in diabetic patients is an important prerequisite for effectively promoting the healing of diabetic wounds. OBJECTIVE: To observe the biological characteristics of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells from diabetic patients and the effect of promoting wound healing. METHODS: Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells were obtained from the abdominal fat of normal people and diabetic patients of the same age and sex. Flow cytometry and cell scratch experiment were used to analyze the apoptosis and migration of the two groups of cells. The levels of hepatocyte growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor were detected by ELISA in the two groups. A diabetic nude mouse wound model was prepared; adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell suspensions from different sources were intradermally injected into the edge of the diabetic nude mouse wound. Cell survival was detected with the LB983 in vivo imaging system at 0, 12, and 24 hours after transplantation. The back healing of nude mice was observed at 7 and 14 days after transplantation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with the normal group, the cell apoptosis rate in the diabetes group was significantly increased (P < 0.05); the migration distance at 24 hours was significantly reduced (P < 0.05); the secretion levels of cytokines hepatocyte growth factor, fibroblast growth factor β, and vascular endothelial growth factor were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). (2) At 24 hours after cell transplantation, the number of living cells in the diabetic group was significantly reduced compared with the normal group (P < 0.05). After 14 days, the back skin healing of the nude mice in the normal group was better than that in the diabetic group. (3) The results showed that the biological activity of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells from diabetic patients decreased, and the effect of promoting wound healing was poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To observe the effect of Liangxue Dihuang decoction on wound healing, anal function and neovascularization after external stripping and internal ligation of mixed hemorrhoids with damp heat injection syndrome. Methods:Using random number table method, 150 patients with mixed hemorrhoids after external stripping and internal ligation in Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from October 2019 to September 2021 were divided into control group(n=75) and study group(n=75). According to the random number table method, they were divided into control group and study group,with 75 cases in each group. The patients in the control group received routine treatment, and the patients in the study group received Liangxue Dihuang decoction on the basis of the control group. The curative effect, wound healing, anal function, neovascularization and complications were compared between the two groups. Results: The total clinical effective rate in the study group was 94.67%(71/75),which was higher than 74.67%(56/75) in the control group, the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05). The wound reduction rate in the study group was greater than that in the control group, and the wound healing time was shorter than that in the control group(P<0.05). The visual pain analog scale(VAS) score in the study group was lower than that in the control group, the disappearance time of pruritus, bleeding, defecation pain and anal secretion in the control group were shorter than those in the control group(P<0.05). 7 d after treatment, the platelet-derived growth factor(PDFG), vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor(b FGF) increased in the two groups, and the study group was higher than the control group(P<0.05). Wexner constipation score, anal systolic pressure and anal resting pressure decreased in the two groups at 7 d after treatment, and the study group was lower than the control group(P<0.05). The maximum rectal volume threshold and rectal sensory threshold decreased in the two groups at 7 d after treatment, but the study group was higher than the control group(P<0.05). The incidence rate of complications in the study group was lower than that in the control group(P<0.05). Conclusion: Liangxue Dihuang decoction used in patients with external stripping and internal ligation of mixed hemorrhoids with damp heat injection syndrome can reduce postoperative pain, promote wound healing,improve anal function, and reduce the incidence rate of complications, which may be related to regulating the formation of neovascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Anterior cruciate ligament knee reconstruction under arthroscopy is the most effective treatment for anterior cruciate ligament injury. However, the choice of graft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is still controversial, which is the key problem to be solved facing clinicians. OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical efficacy of autologous, mixed, and simple ligament advanced reinforcement system ligaments in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. METHODS: Totally 132 patients who were admitted to First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2016 to January 2019 and underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were enrolled in this study. These patients were divided into autologous group, mixed group, and artificial group (n=44) according to the different graft selections. Among them, the autologous group took the medial half tendon and femoral tendon of the calf tibial nodules and woven into autologous ligament for treatment. Patients in the mixed group were treated with semi-tendon, femoral tendon and ligament advanced reinforcement system artificial ligament graft. Patients with the artificial group were treated with ligament advanced reinforcement system artificial ligament. Before and 2 years after operation, Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lachman test, Tegner score, and HSS score were used to evaluate the recovery of the knee. At the same time, the bone tunnel enlargement value, ligament growth factors, quality of life, and recovery time were observed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The time for patients in the mixed group to resume daily activities and exercise after surgery was earlier than that of the autologous group and the artificial group (P < 0.05). The SF-36 score of the quality of life 2 years after surgery was higher in the mixed group than that of the autologous group and the artificial group (P < 0.05). The complication rates of the mixed group and the artificial group were lower than that of the autologous group (P < 0.05). (2) The knee joint function of the three groups of patients recovered to varying degrees. The Lysholm score, IKDC score, and Tegner score of the mixed group were higher than those of the autologous group and the artificial group at 0.5, 1, and 2 years after operation (P < 0.05). The KT1000 knee range of motion of the mixed group was less than that of the autologous group and the artificial group (P < 0.05) at 1 and 2 years after operation. The bone tunnel enlargement value at 1 year after operation was lower in the mixed group than that of autologous group and artificial group (P < 0.05). The HSS scores at 0.5, 1, and 2 years after operation were higher in the mixed group than those of the autologous group and the artificial group (P < 0.05). The number of normal people in Lachman test at 2 years after operation was more in the mixed group than that of autologous group and artificial group (P < 0.05). (3) The levels of ligament growth factor transforming growth factor β1 and basic fibroblast growth factor in the mixed group were higher than those in the autologous group and the artificial group at 0.5, 1, and 2 years after surgery (P < 0.05). (4) It is concluded that the mixed ligament can be used as the primary graft for clinic, and is more helpful in helping patients return to normal work and life as soon as possible. However, the use of mixed ligaments still has practical problems, such as the need to extract autologous tendons and high medical costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Modern Laboratory Medicine is the property of Journal of Modern Laboratory Medicine Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BACKGROUND: Panax notoginseng saponins combined with platelet-rich plasma can up-regulate the expression of factors related to osteogenesis and vascularization, and promote bone healing. OBJECTIVE: To observe the release of growth factors from platelet-rich plasma after intragastric administration of panax notoginseng saponin and its effects on bone defect healing in rabbits. METHODS: Eighteen New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups: PNS group, control group and blank group. PNS group was treated with panax notoginseng saponins by gavage for 2 weeks. Control group was given 10 mL of normal saline by gavage for 2 weeks. Blank group were fed normally. Platelet-rich plasma was obtained by centrifugation in the PNS group together with the control group. After activation, growth factor release was detected by ELISA at different time points (0, 2 hours, 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after activation). One week later, the model of radial bone defect was established in each rabbit. PNS and control groups were implanted with autologous platelet-rich plasma. The bone defect healing of the three groups was compared based on the results from X-ray examination, gross observation, and hematoxylin-eosin staining. The study protocol was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine (approval No. TCMF1-2019062). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The release of growth factors: In the PNS group, the release concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor A on the 7th day, transforming growth factor-β on the 1st day, basic fibroblast growth factor on the 3rd and 5th days after activation were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.01). Bone defect healing: Two months after operation, X-ray examination results showed that better bone healing was observed in the PNS group than the control group, and bone healing in these two groups was significantly better than that in the blank group. Three months after operation, bone defects were healed in all the three groups. Hematoxylin-eosin staining results showed that the trabecular density was higher in the PNS group than the control group, and was worst in the blank group. All these findings indicate that the intervention of Panax notoginseng saponins can up-regulate the concentration of growth factors released from platelet-rich plasma, which has more advantages in promoting the healing of rabbit bone defects than the use of platelet-rich plasma alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: When basic fibroblast factors act on fibroblasts, they can induce their proliferation by activating Wnt signaling. However, in the study of its effect on apical dental papilla stem cells, whether it can activate the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway and the effect of activating this pathway on the biological activities of apical dental papilla stem cells remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the regulatory role of basic fibroblast growth factor on the proliferation of stem cells from apical papilla. METHODS: Human stem cells from apical papilla were cloned and cultured through enzymatic digestion and limiting dilution assay, and then treated with 15 μg/L basic fibroblast growth factor for 2 days. RT-PCR and western blot assay were used to detect the expression of β-Catenin, TCF1, TCF3, and LEF1 mRNAs and proteins. The effect of basic fibroblast growth factor on the proliferation of stem cells from apical papilla was further studied in the case of Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway inhibition. The basic fibroblast growth factor (15 μg/L) + Dkk-1 group, basic fibroblast growth factor (15 μg/L) group, and negative control group were set. The proliferation of stem cells from apical papilla in each group was compared by MTT assay and EdU assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The expression levels of β-Catenin, TCF1, TCF3, and LEF1 mRNAs and proteins were upregulated by 15 μg/L basic fibroblast growth factor on stem cells from apical papilla (P < 0.05). (2) The stem cells from apical papilla of the basic fibroblast growth factor (15 μg/L) group showed stronger proliferation activity than that in the negative control group and basic fibroblast growth factor (15 μg/L) + Dkk-1 group (P < 0.05). (3) Results suggest that basic fibroblast growth factor can promote the expression of key molecules β-Catenin in Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway and downstream molecules TCF1, TCF3, and LEF1. Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway participates in the regulation of basic fibroblast growth factor on the proliferation of stem cells from apical papilla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the changes of serum vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in adolescents who committed suicide by taking drugs, and their correlation with the psychological status of patients. Methods: From January 2018 to December 2020, 81 adolescents (research group) who attempted suicide by taking drugs admitted to West China Hospital of Sichuan University were included, and 81 healthy volunteers were included as controls (control group). Detect the serum VEGF and bFGF levels of the two groups of subjects, and use the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Self-Rating Suicide Ideation Scale (SlOSS) to assess the mental status of the two groups of patients. Results: The gender, age, height and body mass index (BMI) of the two groups of study subjects are comparable (P>0.05). The proportion of smokers in the study group(16/81) and the proportion of family psychiatric history(13/81) were significantly higher than those of the control Group (6/81 and 3/81)(P<0.05). The serum VEGF(699.72± 103.42) ng/mL and bFGF(348.31± 65.13) ng/mL levels of the study group suicide teenagers were higher than those of the control group healthy volunteers [(620.31± 85.32) ng/mL and (265.37± 35.23) ng/mL](P<0.05), and has nothing to do with smoking or family history of mental illness (P<0.05). The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that serum VEGF and bFGF of adolescents who committed suicide had no correlation with HAMD and SDS scores, but were positively correlated with SIOSS scores (r=0.278 and r=0.302, both P<0.05). Conclusion: The levels of serum VEGF and bFGF in suicide adolescents who took medicine were elevated, which was positively correlated with the scores of the self-rating suicide ideation scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Basic fibroblast growth factor is an important growth factor to maintain the long-term culture of human embryonic stem cells. Providing reliable, non-animal-derived and low-cost basic fibroblast growth factor products is essential for maintaining the growth of human embryonic stem cells and large-scale production. OBJECTIVE: To eliminate the potential interference of animal or other bacteria, this study mainly evaluated the effects of plant-derived basic fibroblast growth factor on the growth and differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. METHODS: Human embryonic stem cells line (H9) was used as research materials. Immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry detection, alkaline phosphatase staining, and RT-PCR were utilized to systematically compare the ability of plant-derived basic fibroblast growth factor to maintain the characteristics of stem cells at different concentrations and its potential to differentiate into ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm and pancreatic cells. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Plant-derived basic fibroblast growth factor (4 μg/L and 0.4 μg/L) and basic fibroblast growth factor (4 μg/L) used in conventional culture system could maintain the growth and differentiation of human embryonic stem cells, indicating that plant-derived basic fibroblast growth factor can be used as an effective alternative product to support the growth and differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Preliminary studies have confirmed that deep seawater not only affects the tolerance and immunity of mice, but also has an important regulatory effect on wound repair. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of deep seawater on the PI3K/Akt pathway in the process of wound repair in diabetic mice. METHODS: Forty-eight Kunming mice were enrolled to establish a diabetes model. A 1 cm2 wound was made on the back after successful modeling, and all the mouse models were randomized into four groups for corresponding treatments, including drinking purified water (control), tap water, deep seawater and deep seawater+LY294002, with 12 rats in each group. On the 3rd, 7th, and 10th days after wound modeling, the wound healing was observed, and western blot was used to detect the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, p-PI3K, p-Akt, PI3K and Akt in the wound tissue. qRT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the expression levels of collagen type I, collagen type III, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α and transforming growth factor-β1 mRNA. On the 3rd and 10th days after wound modeling, hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the morphological changes of the wound. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Ethic Committee of Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Science with an approval No. KPRC-2017091. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The wound healing rate of the deep seawater group was higher than that of the control group and the tap water group (P < 0.01), while there was no significant difference in the wound healing rate between the tap water group and deep seawater+LY294002 group (P > 0.05). Hematoxylineosin staining showed that there were a large number of inflammatory cells infiltrated and a few fibroblasts on the wound surface in the control group, tap water group, and deep seawater+LY294002 group on the 3rd day, and granulation tissue, capillaries and fibroblasts were visible on the 10th day. In the deep seawater group, fibroblasts, capillaries and a few inflammatory cells were seen on the 3rd day, and new granulation tissue, more collagen fibers and a few capillaries were seen on the 10th day. Western blot analysis showed that the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, p-PI3K and p-Akt in the deep seawater group were higher than those in the control group and the tap water group on each observational time point (P < 0.01). qRT-PCR and western blot results showed that the expressions of collagen type I, collagen type III and transforming growth factor-β1 in the deep seawater group were higher than those in the control group and deep seawater+LY294002 group on each observational time point (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), while the expression levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α were lower than those in the control group and deep seawater+LY294002 group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). To conclude, deep seawater can promote wound healing in diabetic mice via activating the PI3K/Akt pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of Jiawei Kushen decoction combined with Zigui Jiedu ointment on wound healing, anorectal dynamics, serum Tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin-6(IL-6), transfer growth factor-1(TGF-β1), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)levels after anal fistula operation. 80 patients who underwent anal fistula operation in our hospital from June 2015 to June 2019 were selected, they were divided into control group (n=40) and study group (n=40) according to the method of random number table. Patients in the control group were treated with Zigui Jiedu cream. The study group was treated with modified Kushen Decoction on the basis of the control group. The curative effect, wound healing, anorectal dynamics and related blood of the two groups were compared The adverse reactions of the two groups were recorded. The total clinical effective rate of the study group was 87.5%(35/40), which was significantly higher than 65.00%(26/40) of the control group (P<0.05). The wound healing time of the study group was shorter than that of the control group, and the scores of bleeding and edema were lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). The rectal resting pressure(RRP), anal resting pressure (ARP) of the two groups decreased after 14 days treatment, but the study group was higher than the control group (P<0.05). After 14 days of treatment, TNF-αand IL-6 decreased in the two groups, which was lower in the study group than in the control group (P<0.05); after 14 days of treatment, TGF-β1 and bFGF increased in the two groups, which was higher in the study group than in the control group(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P>0.05). Jiawei Kushen decoction combined with Zigui Jiedu ointment can promote wound healing as soon as possible, improve anorectal dynamics and serum TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β1, bFGF levels, and do not increase the incidence of adverse reactions, with definite effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Some studies have shown that basic fibroblast growth factor can promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. OBJECTIVE: To compare the ability of acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold combined with basic fibroblast growth factor in repairing rabbit femoral defect. METHODS: The acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffolds were prepared by fusion blending and freeze-drying method, and the acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor was prepared by immersion method. Mouse embryonic osteoblasts MC3T3-E1 were seeded on the surface of the two scaffolds for cell proliferation, cell adhesion and osteogenic gene detection. Cells cultured alone served as control. Bone defect models with a diameter of 5 mm were made in bilateral distal femurs using thirty-six 6-month-old New Zealand white rabbits and randomly divided into three groups by drawing lots. The blank group was not intervened. The simple composite scaffold and growth factor + composite scaffold groups were implanted with acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold and acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor for X-ray and histological examination. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Within 1-11 days of culture, the cell proliferation of basic fibroblast growth factor/acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold group was faster than that of the acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold group (P < 0.05), and that of the acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold group was faster than that of the control group (P < 0.05). (2) After 4 days of co-culture with the scaffold, the mRNA expressions of type I collagen, osteocalcin, osteopontin and Runx2 were higher in the cells in basic fibroblast growth factor/acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold group cultured for 4 and 7 days than those of acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold group (P < 0.05), and the mRNA expression of alkaline phosphatase was higher than that of acellular bone matrix/chitosan scaffold group after 7 days of culture (P < 0.05). (3) Scanning electron microscopy showed that the scaffolds of the two groups supported the adhesion of MC3T3-E1 cells after 7 days of co-culture. (4) X-ray film of animal experiment showed that there was no obvious bone repair in the blank group at 12 weeks after operation; new bone formation could be seen at 8 weeks after operation in the simple composite scaffold group, and obvious new bone formation could be seen at 12 weeks after operation; new bone formation could be seen at 4 weeks after operation in the cytokine + composite scaffold group, and the bone defect site was almost completely repaired at 12 weeks after operation (5) Hematoxylin staining and Masson staining showed that a large amount of fibrous tissue could be seen in the blank group at 12 weeks after operation; a large amount of new bone formation could be seen in the two scaffold groups, in which the area and maturity of new bone formation in the growth factor + composite scaffold group were higher than those in the simple composite scaffold group. (6) The results showed that the acellular bone matrix/chitosan composite scaffold loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor is an ideal bone tissue repair material, which can promote bone formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To observe the curative effect of moisture exposed burn ointment combined with recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (rh-bFGF) in the treatment of patients with superficial second degree burn and its effect on hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein expression in the wound granulation tissue. 70 cases of patients with superficial second degree burn who were treated in Tianjin First Central Hospital from December 2018 to December 2020 were selected. According to the hospitalization number, odd or even, they were divided into two groups: control group and experimental group, 35 cases respectively. The control group was treated with rh-bFGF gel, the experimental group was treated with moisture exposed burn ointment combined with rh-bFGF gel, and both groups were treated for 2 weeks. The therapeutic effect, wound healing rate, symptom absence time, incidence rate of adverse reactions, changes in serum inflammatory factors and changes in HIF-1α and VEGF protein expression in wound granulation tissue were compared between the two groups. The clinical total effective rate and wound healing rate of experimental group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The time of disappearance of swelling, pain, erythema, blister and osmotic fluid of the experimental group were shorter than those of the control group (P<0.05). 2 weeks after treatment, the serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) of the two groups were lower than those before treatment (P<0.05), and the experimental group was lower than the control group (P<0.05). 2 weeks after treatment, VEGF protein expression level in the wound granulation tissue of the experimental group was higher than that of the control group, the HIF-1α protein expression level was lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). The incidence rate of adverse reactions in the control group was 11.43%, which was not statistically significant compared with 5.71% of the experimental group (P>0.05). Compared with the treatment of rh-bFGF gel, combined with moisture exposed burn ointment in the treatment of patients with superficial second degree burn can better promote wound healing, improve patient symptoms, and improve the level of serum inflammatory factors and the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF protein, which is safe and reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of microRNA-186-5p (miR-186-5p) on vascular endothelial cell injury and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2)/fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) signaling pathway in model rats with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods A total of 48 male SD rats were divided into the control group, the model group, the miR-186-5p inhibitor group and the miR-186-5p inhibitor NC group (n=12). Except for the control group, rats in the other groups were all constructed CHD models and given corresponding interventions for 4 weeks. The serum levels of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular shortening fraction (LVFS), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) were measured in the four groups of rats. HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of coronary artery in each group. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression levels of FGF2 and FGFR1 proteins in rat coronary artery. The double luciferase was used to verify the target relationship between miR-186-5p and FGF2. Results In the control group, the vascular wall of the coronary arteries of rats was uniform without inflammatory cell infiltration. In the model group and the miR-186-5p inhibitor NC group, vascular endothelial cells arranged disorderly and inflammatory cells infiltrated obviously. Compared with the model group, less pathological changes and less inflammatory cell infiltration were found in the miR-186-5p inhibitor group. Compared with the control group, the contents of LVEF, LVFS, HDL-C, NO, the protein expression levels of FGF2 and FGFR1 were significantly decreased in the model group, and the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and ET-1 were significantly increased (P＜0.05). Compared with the model group and the miR-186-5p inhibitor NC group, the contents of LVEF, LVFS, HDL-C, NO, the protein expression levels of FGF2 and FGFR1 were significantly increased, and the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and ET-1 were significantly decreased in the miR-186-5p inhibitor group (P＜0.05). There were no significant differences in the above indicators between the model group and the miR-186- 5p inhibitor NC group (P＞0.05). The results of double luciferase assay confirmed that miR-186-5p had a targeted binding site with FGF2. Conclusion The down-regulation of miR-186-5p can reduce inflammatory reaction and vascular endothelial cell injury in CHD rats, which is related to the activation of FGF2/FGFR1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Nano-silver antibacterial dressings and hydrogels are both new types of dressings used for the treatment of infected wounds. Recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor is an active peptide drug commonly used for open wounds. OBJECTIVE: To explore the application of topical recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor and nano-silver antibacterial hydrogel dressing in wound healing of patients with open ankle fracture after debridement. METHODS: A total of 99 patients scheduled for debridement due to open ankle fracture were randomly divided into control group, test group A and test group B, with 33 patients in each group. Vaseline gauze and sterile gauze were applied in the control group. Test group A was treated with recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor and wounds were covered with sterile gauze. Test group B was treated with recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor, and wounds were covered with nano-silver antibacterial hydrogel dressing. Dressing in each group was changed every 2 days. The therapeutic measures related to the study should be terminated if one of the following conditions occurs: (1) after debridement, the incision and skin lesions are converted to meet the requirements of elective surgery with regard to skin and soft tissue; (2) wound infections are confirmed and requires further debridement, skin flap transplantation, vacuum negative pressure suction and other measures. After treatment, time of blood supply recovery, time of wound healing, joint swelling score, Visual Analogue Scale score, serum inflammatory factors, oxidative stress index (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase) and postoperative incision complications were compared and analyzed. The study protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Shengjing Hospital Affiliated to China Medical University, and each patient signed an informed consent form. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group, the total clinical response rate and superoxide dismutase level were significantly higher in the two test groups, and the joint swelling score, Visual Analogue Scale score, levels of interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, D-dimer, and malondialdehyde were significantly lower in the two test groups (P < 0.05). After treatment, the above-mentioned indexes were all lower in the test group B than the test group A (P < 0.05). The blood supply recovery time and wound healing time were also shorter in the test group B than the test group A (P < 0.05). Compared with the test group A and control group, the incidence of postoperative incision complications was lower in the test group B; however, there were no significant difference (P > 0.05). Findings of the present study reveal that topical application of human recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor combined with nano-silver antibacterial hydrogel dressings can relieve swelling and pain, promote wound healing, relieve inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, and effectively reduce postoperative incision complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, adverse reactions and recurrence of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of facial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the face with vermiform acariasis, and to analyze the effect of them on cellular immune function. Methods: 124 BCC patients with facial Demodex were divided into two groups after ornidazole treatment, 9 patients were excluded, 56 patients in the observation group were treated with PDT, 59 patients in the control group were treated with extended tumor resection and local flap transfer. The patients were followed up for 2 years, the efficacy, cellular immune function, adverse reactions and recurrence were evaluate. Results: There was no significant difference in the total effective rate between the observation group and the control group (P＞0.05). After treatment, CD4+ and CD4+ /CD8+ levels in both groups were increased compared with those before treatment, and the observation group was higher than the control group. CD8+ levels in both groups were decreased compared with that before treatment, and the observation group was lower than the control group (all P<0.05). The incidence and recurrence rate of adverse reactions in observation group were lower than those in control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: PDT is effective in the treatment of BCC patients with face with vermiform acariasis. It has outstanding advantages in reducing the incidence of adverse reactions and recurrence rate, and can improve the cellular immune function of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of Xiangpi Shengji ointment on inflammatory factors, p38/MK2 signaling pathway and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in wound tissue of rats after anal fistula operation. Methods: Sixty male SD rats were selected, they were randomly divided into Xiangpi Shengji ointment group, model group and sham operation group with 20 rats in each group. The wound models of the two groups were made after anal fistula operation, and treated with Xiangpi Shengji ointment and common dressing change respectively. The sham operation group was treated with normal saline after wound construction. Results: The wound healing rate and wound edema score were calculated on 3 d, 7 d and 14 d after treatment, the levels of serum interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) on the 14 d after treatment and the expressions of VEGF, bFGF, p38, MK2, phosphorylated p38 (p-p38) and phosphorylated MK2 (p-MK2) on the 3 d and 14th day after treatment were compared. The wound healing rate of the Xiangpi Shengji ointment group was higher than that of the model group, but lower than that of the sham operation group (P<0.05). The wound edema score of the sham operation group was lower than that of the Xiangpi Shengji ointment group, and the Xiangpi Shengji ointment group was lower than that of the model group (P<0.05). 14 d after treatment, the levels of serum IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α in the Xiangpi Shengji ointment group were lower than those in the model group, but higher than those in the sham operation group (P<0.05). 14 d after treatment, the levels of VEGF and bFGF in Xiangpi Shengji ointment group were higher than those in model group, but lower than those in sham operation group (P<0.05). 14 d after treatment, the protein levels of p38 and MK2 in Xiangpi Shengji ointment group were lower than those in the model group, but higher than those in the sham operation group, and the protein levels of p-p38, p-MK2 in Xiangpi Shengji ointment group were higher than those in the model group, but lower than those in the sham operation group(P<0.05). Conclusion: Xiangpi Shengji ointment can reduce the degree of postoperative wound edema and promote wound healing. The main mechanism may be that Xiangpi Shengji ointment can reduce the level of serum inflammatory factors, inhibit p38/MK2 signaling pathway, and promote the expression of VEGF and bFGF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: It is difficult to solve the problem of vascularization in tissue engineering, which has become the key to restrict its clinical application. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility of forming a prevascularized cell sheet by co-culturing of rabbit umbilical vein endothelial cells and stem cell sheet, and to analyze the gene expression of angiogenesis related factors. METHODS: Rabbit bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and cultured in vitro, forming stem cell sheet by ascorbic acid. Prevascularized cell sheet was prepared by co-culture rabbit umbilical vein endothelial cells with stem cell sheet in the experimental group. Rabbit umbilical vein endothelial cells cultured separately were used as control group. At 3, 7, and 14 days, morphological and histological changes were observed by light microscopy and hematoxylin-eosin staining. mRNA expression of angiogenesis related factors was detected by RT-PCR, and the structure of vascularized network was observed by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The light microscopy showed that the cells of the experimental group migrated and rearranged at 3 days after culture. Rabbit umbilical vein endothelial cells "connected" and formed a network structure at 7 days. The network structure was more obvious at 14 days. The cell density of the control group increased continuously, forming a cell mass. No rearrangement or migration of cells was observed to form a network structure. (2) Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that the cells in the experimental group were not uniformly arranged at 3 days, and the cells were arranged in cords at 7 days and reticulated at 14 days. The cells in the control group showed the accumulation of paving stones and the density increased continuously, without cords or reticular structures. (3) RT-PCR showed that mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor was higher in the experimental group than in the control group at 7 days (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of basic fibroblast growth factor was higher in the experimental group than that of the control group at 14 days (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of Ang1 was higher in the experimental group than that of the control group at 7 and 14 days (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of Ang2 was higher in the experimental group than that of the control group at 3, 7, and 14 days (P < 0.05). (4) Immunohistochemical staining of CD31 showed that the vascular network was formed in the experimental group, while no network was formed in the control group. (5) The results showed that rabbit umbilical vein endothelial cells co-cultured with stem cell membrane can successfully construct the pre-vascularized cell sheet, significantly expressing angiogenesis-related genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, adverse reactions and recurrence of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of facial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the face with vermiform acariasis, and to analyze the effect of them on cellular immune function. 124 BCC patients with facial Demodex were divided into two groups after ornidazole treatment, 9 patients were excluded, 56 patients in the observation group were treated with PDT, 59 patients in the control group were treated with extended tumor resection and local flap transfer. The patients were followed up for 2 years, the efficacy, cellular immune function, adverse reactions and recurrence were evaluate. There was no significant difference in the total effective rate between the observation group and the control group (P＞0.05). After treatment, CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ levels in both groups were increased compared with those before treatment, and the observation group was higher than the control group. CD8+ levels in both groups were decreased compared with that before treatment, and the observation group was lower than the control group (all P<0.05). The incidence and recurrence rate of adverse reactions in observation group were lower than those in control group (P<0.05). PDT is effective in the treatment of BCC patients with face with vermiform acariasis. It has outstanding advantages in reducing the incidence of adverse reactions and recurrence rate, and can improve the cellular immune function of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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BACKGROUND: Chitosan or collagen alone can improve the microvessel density in myocardial infarction area and participate in the short-term myocardial repair after myocardial infarction. Based on this research group, thermosensitive chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel was prepared, which confirmed that it had good physical and chemical properties and was suitable for myocardial tissue engineering scaffold materials. OBJECTIVE: To prepare the chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor, and to analyze its physical and chemical properties, biocompatibility and prognosis in vivo after treatment of myocardial infarction in mice. METHODS: (1) Basic fibroblast growth factor was loaded in chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel and chitosan hydrogel separately, and the release efficiency of basic fibroblast growth factor in hydrogels was detected. (2) H9C2 cardiomyocytes were seeded in two hydrogels loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor, and cell proliferation was detected by CCK8 assay. (3) C57BL/6J mice model of myocardial infarction was established and randomly divided into three groups. The blank group was injected PBS into the myocardial infarction area. The control group was injected with chitosan hydrogel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor. The experimental group was injected with chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor. Echocardiography and myocardial histology were performed 28 days after operation. The experiment was approved by Ethics Committee of Shanxi Medical University. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with chitosan hydrogel, chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel could promote the release of basic fibroblast growth factor in gel. (2) Compared with the chitosan hydrogel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor, the chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor could promote the proliferation of cardiomyocytes. (3) Echocardiography showed that the left ventricular ejection fraction and the shortening rate of left ventricular short axis in the experimental group and the control group were higher than those in the blank group (P < 0.05). Left ventricular ejection fraction and the shortening rate of left ventricular short axis in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). (4) The myocardial histological observation showed that the infarct area of the experimental group and the control group was smaller than that of the blank group (P < 0.05). The infarct area wall thickness of the experimental group and the control group was larger than that of the blank group (P < 0.05). The infarct area of the experimental group was smaller than that of the control group (P < 0.05), and the infarct area wall thickness of the experimental group was larger than that of the control group (P < 0.05). (5) The results showed that the chitosan-collagen composite hydrogel loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor had good biocompatibility, and animal transplantation could significantly reduce the ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]