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18 November 2023, Volume 27 Issue 32 Previous Issue   

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Improvement of delayed-onset muscle soreness by pre-exercise whole-body vibration at 50 Hz Zhang Xuebin, Ao Wenjun, Jiang Xin, Song Chenglin 2023, 27 (32):  5085-5090.  doi: 10.12307/2023.822 Abstract ( 334 )   PDF (1157KB) ( 75 )   Save BACKGROUND: Whole-body vibration may be used as a pre-exercise intervention to alleviate symptoms of delayed-onset muscular soreness. However, there is no report on which vibration frequency is more effective OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of whole-body vibration at 50 Hz or 35 Hz before exercise on delayed-onset muscular soreness of the quadriceps muscle after exercise in general male college students. METHODS: Thirty-one healthy non-athletic male college students, aged (22.7±1.6) years, were randomly divided into a 50 Hz whole-body vibration group (50 Hz-WBV group; n=10), a 35 Hz whole-body vibration group (35 Hz-WBV group; n=11), and a control group (n=10). Delayed-onset muscular soreness of the quadriceps muscle was induced by full squat jumps and weighted half squat jumps. Visual analogue scale score for muscle soreness and maximum voluntary isometric contraction muscle strength were measured 1 day before exercise, immediately after exercise, and 1, 2, 3 and 7 days after exercise. Serum creatine kinase, interleukin-6 and prostaglandin E2 levels were measured at all time points except immediately after exercise and 3 days after exercise. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At 1, 2, and 3 days after exercise, visual analogue scale scores and peak torque values were lower in the 50 Hz-WBV group and 35 Hz-WBV group than the control group (P < 0.05). At 2 days after exercise, visual analogue scale scores were lower in the 50 Hz-WBV group than the 35 Hz-WBV group (P < 0.05); at 2 and 3 days after exercise, the reduction in peak torque values was lower in the 50 Hz-WBV group than the 35 Hz-WBV group (P <  0.05). Serum creatine kinase levels were lower in the 50 Hz-WBV group than the control group at 1 and 2 days after exercise (P < 0.05), and the serum creatine kinase level in the 35 Hz- WBV group were lower than that in the control group at 2 days after exercise (P < 0.05). Interleukin-6 levels, compared with the baseline, were not statistically different at any time point in the 50 Hz-WBV group (P > 0.05), but were significantly higher in the 35 Hz-WBV group at 1 day after exercise (P < 0.05) as well as in the control group at 1 and 2 days after exercise (P < 0.05). Prostaglandin E2 levels were significantly higher in all the three groups at 1 day after exercise compared with the baseline (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the pre-exercise whole-body vibration alleviates delayed-onset muscular soreness and reduces strength loss that occur after exercise, as well as has a beneficial effect on related blood indicators. Moreover, whole-body vibration at 50 Hz is more effective than that at 35 Hz. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Immediate effects of different training movements on inter-rectus distance in postpartum women: a high-frequency ultrasound observation Cen Wanyi, Gong Yuxuan, Huang Zhendong, Hu Xinyu, Lin Jun, Que Kexin, Li Tailiang, Wang Runmei, Song Chengxian 2023, 27 (32):  5091-5096.  doi: 10.12307/2023.815 Abstract ( 278 )   PDF (1630KB) ( 115 )   Save BACKGROUND: Postpartum diastasis rectus abdominis have a high incidence, which has a certain adverse effect on the physical and mental health of parturients. Exercise therapy is one of the main treatment methods, but there is still a lack of consensus on which exercise can promote its repair more effectively. OBJECTIVE: To observe the immediate effects of curl-up movement, abdominal breathing, pelvic floor muscle contraction and combined exercise on inter-rectus distance using high-frequency ultrasound. METHODS: Thirty-nine eligible subjects with postpartum diastasis rectus abdominis were recruited 2-6 months after delivery. Inter-rectus distance was measured using high-frequency ultrasound at 4.5 cm above the umbilicus, at the level of the umbilicus and at 4.5 cm below the umbilicus in five movement patterns: resting state, curl-up movement, abdominal breathing, pelvic floor contraction and combined movement. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference in the inter-rectus distance between the resting state and the other four movement patterns at 4.5 cm above the umbilicus (P > 0.05). At the level of the umbilicus, the inter-rectus distance was significantly decreased in the curl-up movement compared with the resting state (P < 0.01), while the inter-rectus distance significantly increased in the combined exercise compared with the resting state (P < 0.05). At the 4.5 cm below the umbilicus, the inter-rectus distance decreased in the curl-up movement compared with the resting state (P < 0.05), while the inter-rectus distance tended to increase in the other three movements compared with the resting state, but there was no statistical difference (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the inter-rectus distance between spontaneous delivery group and cesarean section group at the resting state (all P > 0.05). However, at the umbilical level, the inter-rectus distance in the multiparity group was significantly wider than that in the primiparity group (P < 0.05). At 4.5 cm below the umbilicus, the body mass index was positively correlated with the inter-rectus distance (r=0.359, P=0.025). In terms of immediate effects, curl-up movement can reduce the inter-rectus distance, while abdominal breathing, pelvic floor contraction and combined exercise have the opposite effects. Parturients with multiple births and a high body mass index may be more likely to develop postpartum diastasis rectus abdominis. Results from this study will provide a theoretical basis for the rehabilitation treatment of postpartum diastasis rectus abdominis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Eriodictyol improves cognitive function of 5×FAD mice by regulating Nogo-A/NgR/ROCK2 signaling pathway Li Mengdi, Li Na, Guo Minfang, Meng Tao, Yu Jingwen, Li Yanbing, Ma Cungen, Yu Jiezhong 2023, 27 (32):  5097-5102.  doi: 10.12307/2023.589 Abstract ( 253 )   PDF (2661KB) ( 56 )   Save BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have shown that nerve growth inhibitory factor (Nogo-A) can activate Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase (ROCK) by binding to its downstream molecules, thereby exerting an inhibitory effect on nerve axon growth, which is closely related to the accumulation of β-amyloid protein in Alzheimer’s disease. Pre-laboratory work has demonstrated that eriodictyol improves cognitive dysfunction in 5×FAD mice, but its modulation of the Nogo-A/NgR/ROCK2 signaling pathway has not been clarified. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of eriodictyol on cognitive function in 5×FAD mice via the Nogo-A/NgR/ROCK2 signaling pathway. METHODS: Male C57BL/6 mice, 8 months old, were randomized into wild group and wild triodictyol-treated group, while 8-month-old male 5×FAD mice were divided into model group and eriodictyol-treated group, with eight animals in each group. Starting from 33 weeks of age, the wild eriodictyol-treated group and the eriodictyol-treated group were injected intraperitoneally with 10 μL/g eriodictyol daily, and the wild and model groups were injected with the same volume of saline for 2 months. Behavioral assays such as Morris water maze and Y-maze tests were performed, and the expression of β-amyloid 1-42, Nogo-A, NgR, p75NTR, Lingo1, ROCK2, p-ROCK2 and other related target proteins in brain were detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry after testing. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Behavioral assay results showed that the spatial memory ability and novelty exploration ability were decreased in the model group compared with the wild group and the wild eriodictyol-treated group, while these abilities were improved in the eriodictyol-treated group compared with the model group. Immunohistochemistry and western blot results showed that the expression of β-amyloid 1-42, Nogo-A and its receptors such as NgR, p75NTR and Lingo-1 were increased in the model group compared with the wild group and the wild eriodictyol-treated group, and were all down-regulated in the eriodictyol-treated group compared with the model group. The expression of Rho kinase-related proteins ROCK2 and p-ROCK2 was increased in the model group compared with the wild group and wild eriodictyol-treated group, but was down-regulated in the eriodictyol-treated group compared with the model group. These findings suggest that eriodictyol treatment ameliorates cognitive dysfunction in 5×FAD mice, which is associated with inhibition of the Nogo-A/NgR/ROCK2 signaling pathway.   Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Functional brain imaging using near-infrared spectroscopy during the repetitive saliva swallowing test in healthy adults Peng Xinke, Jia Feiyang, Liu Jing, Liu Hongya, Zhou Guijuan, Liu Danni, Yu Jing, Zhou Jun 2023, 27 (32):  5103-5109.  doi: 10.12307/2023.597 Abstract ( 316 )   PDF (993KB) ( 43 )   Save BACKGROUND: Swallowing is a complex movement that requires the synergistic involvement between the cortices, brainstem, specific brain nerves and pharyngeal receptors of the two cerebral hemispheres. The role of the cerebral cortex in the swallowing process and its influence on swallowing remain to be solved. OBJECTIVE: To analyze cortical activation and lateralization during the repetitive saliva swallowing test in healthy adults using functional near-infrared spectroscopy. METHODS: Twenty-seven healthy subjects, aged (20.41±1.66) years, were enrolled, including 13 males and 14 females. All the subjects underwent the repetitive saliva swallowing test during functional near-infrared spectroscopy measure. The brain regions activated by the task were analyzed and the lateralization index of the activated brain regions was calculated. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: During the repetitive saliva swallowing test, the bilateral primary somatosensory cortex, bilateral primary motor cortex, bilateral pre-motor and supplementary motor cortex, bilateral pars triangularis, bilateral frontopolar area, and bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex were significantly activated. More than half of the subjects had cortical hemispheric lateralization in the repetitive saliva swallowing test, but there was greater variability in hemispheric lateralization and no significant association with subject’s handedness. The use of healthy adults as subjects in this study to explore the activated areas associated with swallowing allows us to more accurately understand the neural activity during swallowing, which is important for further investigation of swallowing dysfunction. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Analgesic effect and mechanism of icariin in a rat model of post-traumatic knee arthritis Feng Ruibing, Huang Yong, Hu Hao, Wu Gang, Duan Xiaofeng, Li Chaowen 2023, 27 (32):  5108-5113.  doi: 10.12307/2023.573 Abstract ( 318 )   PDF (1171KB) ( 35 )   Save BACKGROUND: Post-traumatic arthritis is one of the most common forms of osteoarthritis. In vivo and in vitro studies have shown that icariin can treat osteoarthritis through multiple targets and multiple pathways with no obvious side effects. However, the analgesic effect and mechanism of icariin on post-traumatic arthritis has not been reported.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the analgesic effect and mechanism of icariin on post-traumatic arthritis in rats.  METHODS: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham group (n=10), model group (n=10) and icariin group (n=10). The right knee anterior cruciate ligament was cut off in the model group and icariin group, while the right knee joint capsule was cut only in the sham group. The rats in the icariin group were given intragastric administration of icariin (100 mg/kg/d), and the sham and model groups were given the same amount of normal saline at the same time point for 8 weeks. Mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal withdrawal latency were measured by mechanical stimulation and thermal radiation to evaluate the pain threshold of rats. Open field test was used to evaluate anxiety and depression. General observation and Pelletier scoring of the knee cartilage were performed. Safranin O-Fast green staining and Osteoarthritis Research Society International score were used to evaluate the degree of cartilage degeneration. ELISA was used to detect the contents of inflammatory factors interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in synovial fluid and synovial tissue. The protein expression of monocyte chemotactic protein 1/chemokine C-C-motif receptor 2 ligand receptor axis in cartilage tissue was detected by western blot. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal withdrawal latency of the icariin group were significantly higher than those of the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the sham group, the total exercise distance, the total number of crossing squares and the residence time in the central area of the model group were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the above three indexes were significantly increased in the icariin group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in knee synovial fluid and synovial tissue were significantly decreased in the icariin group (P < 0.05). Compared with the sham operation group, the articular cartilage surface of the model group was more uneven and deformed, the cartilage tissue was hypertrophy, hardened and dull, and a large amount of cartilage tissue was exfoliated, while the cartilage degeneration in the icariin group was significantly less than that in the model group. The results of Safranin O-Fast green staining and Osteoarthritis Research Society International score showed that the degeneration of knee cartilage in the model group was more severe than that in the sham group, while that in the icariin group was significantly less than that in the model group. Compared with the model group, the protein expression level of monocyte chemotactic protein 1/chemokine C-C-motif receptor 2 ligand receptor axis was significantly lower in the icariin group (P < 0.05). The above findings indicate that icariin can significantly reduce hyperalgesia in the rat model of post-traumatic knee arthritis, and its mechanism may be related to reducing the levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in the knee joint and inhibiting the protein expression of monocyte chemotactic protein 1/chemokine C-C-motif receptor 2 ligand receptor axis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of puerarin on osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells Liu Chunli, Yan Yujuan, Mo Liwen, Wu Zhijie, Zhang Li 2023, 27 (32):  5114-5119.  doi: 10.12307/2023.829 Abstract ( 287 )   PDF (1378KB) ( 43 )   Save BACKGROUND: Puerarin is a flavonoid derivative from Pueraria lobata. Studies have found that puerarin can prevent osteoporosis and promote new bone formation, which is expected to become a potential drug for treating diseases related to bone destruction. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of puerarin on osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells and to explore the regulatory effect of Notch signaling pathway. METHODS: RAW264.7 cells were divided into five groups: control group treated with Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium high sugar medium; osteoclast induction group treated with osteoclast induction medium (Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium high sugar medium containing macrophage colony-stimulating factor and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand); low-, medium- and high-concentration puerarin groups treated with osteoclast induction medium containing 10, 25 and 50 µmol/L puerarin respectively. After 7 days of culture, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and F-actin staining were used to observe the role of puerarin in osteoclast formation. RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of genes related to osteoclast formation. Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the expression of Notch signaling pathway-related indicators. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining results indicated that osteoclast formation ability was enhanced in the osteoclast induction group compared with the control group (P < 0.01), while compared with the osteoclast induction group, low-, middle-, and high-concentration puerarin intervention inhibited osteoclast formation in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). F-actin staining results revealed that clear ring structure could be observed in the osteoclast induction group; compared with the osteoclast induction group, puerarin intervention could inhibit the formation of F-actin ring in a concentration-dependent manner. RT-PCR results showed that compared with the control group, the expression of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, cathepsin K and C-fos mRNA was increased in the osteoclast induction group (P < 0.01); compared with the osteoclast induction group, puerarin intervention decrease the expression of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, cathepsin K and C-fos mRNA in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.01). Western blot and RT-PCR results showed that the expression of Notch1, Notch2, Hes1, Jagged1 and Jagged2 was increased in the osteoclast induction group compared with the control group (P < 0.01); compared with the osteoclast induction group, puerarin intervention reduced the expression of Notch1, Notch2, Hes1, Jagged1, and Jagged2 in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.01). To conclude, puerarin inhibits the osteoclast differentiation ability of RAW264.7 cells by inhibiting the Notch signaling pathway. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Erastin inhibits proliferation of hypertrophic scar fibroblasts He Xi, Wan Yu, Tang Yuting, Yang Anning, Wu Kai, Jiao Yun, Bai Zhigang, Jiang Yideng, Shen Jiangyong 2023, 27 (32):  5120-5125.  doi: 10.12307/2023.539 Abstract ( 299 )   PDF (1184KB) ( 67 )   Save BACKGROUND: Hypertrophic scar is a kind of pathological scar that appears in the healing process after skin trauma caused by various reasons and there is no effective treatment. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of ferroptosis inducer (Erastin) on the proliferation of human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts. METHODS: Hypertrophic scar samples provided by the Burn Plastic Surgery Department of the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University and normal skin samples of the same individual were collected. Human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts were then extracted for subsequent experiments. (1) The cells were divided into control group (without treatment) and ferroptosis inducer group (treated with 20 μmol/L Erastin for 24 hours). The expression of Ferritin was detected by western blot. Iron ion detection kit was used to measure cellular iron ion concentration. Malondialdehyde detection kit was used to detect cellular malondialdehyde content. (2) The cells were divided into control group (without treatment), ferroptosis inducer group (treated with 20 μmol/L Erastin for 24 hours) and ferroptosis inducer+ferroptosis inhibitor group (co-treated with 20 μmol/L Erastin and 20 μmol/L Ferrostatin-1 for 24 hours). The mRNA and protein expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (p27) were detected using qRT-PCR and western blot. Cell counting kit-8 and EdU were used to detect cell proliferation viability and levels. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group, Erastin decreased the ferritin expression (P < 0.01), increased the content of iron ions (P < 0.05), and elevated the malondialdehyde content in the cells (P < 0.01). Compared with the control group, Erastin decreased the expression of PCNA (P < 0.01), increased the expression of p27 (P < 0.05), weakened the cell proliferation ability (P < 0.01), and reduced the number of EdU-positive cells (P < 0.01). Compared with the ferroptosis inducer group, the ferroptosis inducer + ferroptosis inhibitor group had increased expression of PCNA (P < 0.05), decreased p27 expression (P < 0.05), enhanced cell proliferation (P < 0.01), and increased number of EdU-positive cells (P < 0.05). To conclude, the ferroptosis inducer (Erastin) induces ferroptosis in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts and then inhibits their proliferation. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Establishment of chondrocyte model of iron overload and the mechanism of injury He Qi, Pan Zhaofeng, Chen Baihao, Yang Junzheng, Li Shaocong, Zeng Jiaxu, Zhou Chi, Wang Haibin 2023, 27 (32):  5126-5132.  doi: 10.12307/2023.590 Abstract ( 284 )   PDF (1505KB) ( 24 )   Save BACKGROUND:  It is unclear how excessive iron is involved in the development of arthritis, and investigating the potential mechanisms by which iron overload is involved in the development of arthritis could provide new directions for the treatment of arthritis. OBJECTIVE: To establish an iron overload model of chondrocytes by co-culture of ferric ammonium citrate and chondrocytes, and to observe the effects of iron overload on chondrocyte survival, iron deposition, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damage.  METHODS: The chondrocytes of C57BL/6J mouse knee joint were extracted by enzyme digestion and cultured with ferric ammonium citrate (100, 250, 500, 1 000 and 2 000 μmol/L) chondrocytes for 24, 48 and 72 hours to establish chondrocyte models of iron overload. Cell viability was measured by cell counting kit-8. Content of iron was determined by Calcein-AM, and ferric ammonium citrate concentration was screened for subsequent experiments. Then, the level of reactive oxygen species was detected by fluorescence probe DCFH-DA and the change of mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by JC-1. Real-time quantitative PCR and western blot assays were used to detect the expression levels of type II collagen, matrix metalloproteinases 3 and 13.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The iron overload model could be successfully established in chondrocytes co-cultured with ferric ammonium citrate at the concentration of 500 and 1 000 μmol/L for 48 hours. Ferric ammonium citrate could induce iron overload in chondrocytes, and iron overload subsequently destroy mitochondrial function, increase the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species, impair the functional activity of chondrocytes, and decrease the cell ability to secrete type II collagen and aggrecan, which further increases the difficulty of articular cartilage self-repair. It lays a foundation for further research on the mechanism of chondrocyte injury caused by iron overload and the exploration of effective therapeutic drugs for the treatment of iron overload-induced arthritis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of eccentric exercise patterns on exercise-induced muscle damage Meng Xiangli, Lyu Xiaohong 2023, 27 (32):  5132-5136.  doi: 10.12307/2023.540 Abstract ( 357 )   PDF (2040KB) ( 29 )   Save BACKGROUND: Exercise-induced muscle damage accounts for the highest proportion among various sports injury types, and eccentric exercise patterns may be related to the severity of damage. An effective utilization of skeletal muscle eccentric contraction is of great significance to the development of national fitness and sports undertakings in line with the concept of "healthy China."  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of different eccentric exercise patterns on the degree of exercise-induced muscle damage.  METHODS: A total of 66 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group (n=6), single eccentric exercise group (n=30), and continuous eccentric exercise group (n=30) which was further divided into five subgroups at 0.5, 24, 48, 120, 168 hours after the last exercise. The expressions of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in the quadriceps femoris were detected by immunohistochemical staining, and the mean absorbance value was measured. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the morphological changes of muscle fibers. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There were cells with mild cytoplasmic brown staining of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in the control group. In the exercise groups, the expression of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α began to increase at 0.5 hours. From 24 to 48 hours, muscle fibers were distorted with disordered arrangement and contours, the extracellular space was enlarged with inflammatory cell infiltration, the degree and range of cytoplasmic brown staining increased to the peak but it decreased at 120 and 168 hours. The mean absorbance values of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α in the continuous eccentric exercise group were lower than those in the once eccentric exercise group at 48, 120, and 168 hours (P < 0.05). The recovery time of morphological structure of the skeletal muscle stained by hematoxylin-eosin was different in the continuous eccentric exercise group and once eccentric exercise group, which was 120 and 168 hours respectively. Results from the two-way repeated measure analysis of variance showed that the mean absorbance values of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly correlated with exercise patterns and time points, and there was an interaction between the exercise pattern and time, with F values of 3.106 and 13.431, respectively (P=0.020, P < 0.001). To conclude, the degree of exercise-induced muscle damage is related to the eccentric exercise pattern, and the continuous eccentric exercise is better than the once eccentric exercise.   Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction attenuates mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress in intervertebral disc endplate chondrocytes Dong Jiaan, Liu Ruyin, Yue Zongjin, Xu Xiangyang, Wang Zhengzhen 2023, 27 (32):  5137-5143.  doi: 10.12307/2023.577 Abstract ( 213 )   PDF (1374KB) ( 71 )   Save BACKGROUND: Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction has a certain protective effect on intervertebral disc degenerative diseases. Mitophagy plays an important role in regulating mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress. However, the effect of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction on mitophagy in chondrocytes of intervertebral disc endplate is still unclear.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction on hydrogen peroxide-induced injury of intervertebral disc endplate chondrocytes and its possible molecular mechanism.  METHODS: Chondrocytes were obtained from the intervertebral disc endplate of rats and divided into five groups. Cells in low-, medium-, and high-dose groups were treated with 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/mL Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction for 24 hours, respectively. Cells in normal and models groups were cultured with no treatment. Except for the normal group, the cells in the model group and Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction groups were treated with 400 μmol/L H2O2 for 2 hours. Cell proliferation was then detected by cell counting kit-8 assay. Lactate dehydrogenase, adenosine triphosphate, superoxide dismutase, catalase and malondialdehyde levels were detected by colorimetric assay. The changes in mitochondrial membrane potential were detected by immunofluorescence. Reactive oxygen species and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Mitophagy was detected by immunofluorescence double staining. Cells were transfected with siRNA, and the protein expressions of Parkinson-related gene (Parkin), LC3 and p62 were detected by western blot. Cells were transfected with Parkin adenovirus overexpression vector, and the survival rate of cells was detected.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the model group, Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction treatment significantly improved the survival rate of chondrocytes, increased the levels of adenosine triphosphate, superoxide dismutase, catalase and mitochondrial membrane potential in chondrocytes, and effectively attenuated the apoptotic rate of chondrocytes (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). After treatment with Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction, the activity of lactate dehydrogenase and the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde in chondrocytes were significantly decreased compared with those in the model group (P < 0.01). Parkin siRNA significantly decreased mitophagy induced by hydrogen peroxide (P < 0.01), increased cell survival rate and adenosine triphosphate level (P < 0.01), and decreased reactive oxygen species level, malondialdehyde level and apoptosis rate (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the treatment with Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction could attenuate the increase of Parkin and LC3 II protein levels caused by hydrogen peroxide (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), while the protein level of p62 in the Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction treatment groups was significantly increased compared with the model group (P < 0.01). On the contrary, overexpression of Parkin attenuated the protective effect of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction on the survival rate of cells treated with hydrogen peroxide. To conclude, Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction can effectively inhibit hydrogen peroxide-induced mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress in intervertebral disc endplate chondrocytes, and its protective mechanism may be related to attenuating Parkin-regulated mitophagy. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of naringin on healing of tooth extraction wound in osteoporotic rats Huang Haozhe, Zheng Min, Li Na, Sun Libo, Lan Yuyan, Liu Min 2023, 27 (32):  5144-5149.  doi: 10.12307/2023.592 Abstract ( 240 )   PDF (1732KB) ( 107 )   Save BACKGROUND: Naringin, a monomer compound of Traditional Chinese medicine, has anti-inflammatory and osteogenic effects, but its effect on the healing rate of tooth extraction wounds is not clear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of naringin on the healing rate of tooth extraction wounds in rat models of osteoporosis. METHODS: Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham-operation group (n=14) and ovariectomized group (n=34). In the ovariectomized group, bilateral ovaries were removed to establish osteoporosis models. After 6 weeks, four rats in each group were randomly selected for MicroCT detection to confirm the modeling results. After successful modeling, the remaining rats were subject to tooth extraction and randomly divided into tooth extraction group (the remaining rats in the sham-operation group), control group, naringin group, and estradiol group, and the second molar of left maxillary was extracted. Naringin group was given naringin 300 mg/kg/d by gavage, estradiol group was given 17-β estradiol 20 μg/kg/d by subcutaneous injection, and tooth extraction group and control group were treated with the same volume of normal saline. After 4 weeks of intervention, the rat maxilla was separated for hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson staining, and MicroCT detection. The expressions of osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) at mRNA and protein levels in the bone tissue around the tooth extraction wounds were also detected.   RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 6 weeks of castration, the bone volume fraction of the ovariectomized group decreased, indicating that the modeling of osteoporosis was successful. Four weeks after tooth extraction, compared with the control group, the naringin group and estradiol group had smaller trabecular separation and less loss of alveolar bone height, indicating that naringin could promote bone healing of tooth extraction wounds. Compared with the control group, the expression level of osteoprotegerin and RANKL in bone tissues around tooth extraction was increased and decreased respectively in the naringin and estradiol groups, indicating that naringin could up-regulate osteoprotegerin expression and down-regulate RANKL expression. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Biological changes of Waiguan acupoint in a rat model of psoriasis undergoing heat-sensitive moxibustion Chen Chu, Ouyang Hougan, Zhu Xuying, Qi Yanzhe, Wang Zi 2023, 27 (32):  5150-5154.  doi: 10.12307/2023.598 Abstract ( 242 )   PDF (1324KB) ( 61 )   Save BACKGROUND: Heat-sensitive moxibustion is widely used in clinical treatment and basic research, but the biological characteristics of its sensitized acupoints are not completely clear. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of heat-sensitive moxibustion on connective tissue, calcium and terahertz wave in psoriatic rats and the relationship between them. METHODS: Animal models of psoriasis were induced by 5% imiquimod cream in Sprague-Dawley rats, and the experimental rats were randomly divided into blank group, model group and treatment groups. Except the blank group, the rats in the other groups were modeled with psoriatic lesions on the back and along the Sanjiao meridian of hand-Shaoyang. After successful modeling, the treatment group was treated with moxibustion at Waiguan acupoint at the same time every day, 40 minutes once for 7 days in total. During the treatment period, the tail temperature changed > 1 oC was considered to be the heat-sensitive moxibustion group, and the tail temperature changed ≤ 1 oC was considered to be the moxibustion group. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the pathological changes of subcutaneous connective tissue, colorimetric method was used to detect the changes of calcium ions in subcutaneous fascia, and terahertz wave detector was used to detect the changes of mean terahertz wave voltage at Waiguan point. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the blank group, the pathological changes of connective tissue were obvious in the model group. Compared with the blank group and model group, the calcium ion concentration in subcutaneous fascia was significantly higher in the moxibustion group and heat-sensitive moxibustion group (P < 0.01). The calcium ion concentration in the subcutaneous fascia was significantly higher in the heat-sensitive moxibustion group than the moxibustion group (P < 0.01). On the 3rd day of treatment, the mean terahertz wave voltage values in the treatment groups were higher than those in the model group and the blank group (P < 0.01). On the 7th day, the mean terahertz wave voltage in the moxibustion group was still higher than that in the model group and the blank group (P < 0.01), while the mean terahertz wave voltage in the heat-sensitive moxibustion group was close to that in the blank group. Compared with the moxibustion group, the mean terahertz wave voltage of the heat-sensitive moxibustion group was increased significantly on the 3rd day (P < 0.01) and decreased significantly on the 7th day (P < 0.01). To conclude, during the treatment with heat-sensitive moxibustion, local calcium ions are enriched in the acupoint of psoriatic rats, and terahertz waves are also changed. There may be a close link between heat-sensitive moxibustion, calcium ions and terahertz waves to treat or improve the symptoms of psoriasis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Acupoint dressing therapy using Expectorant Choking Formula for swallowing disorders in rats after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury Hua Xiaoqiong, Li Yanjie, Qin Hewei, Jin Xiaoqin, Ren Kun, Zhang Zhixin, Zhu Bochao, Wang Yupu 2023, 27 (32):  5155-5161.  doi: 10.12307/2023.824 Abstract ( 264 )   PDF (1322KB) ( 38 )   Save BACKGROUND: Previous clinical studies have found that acupoint dressing therapy using Expectorant Choking Formula is effective in improving swallowing function in patients with post-stroke swallowing disorders, but the mechanism of action is unclear. In the brainstem swallowing center, the nucleus ambiguus is the main component of the swallowing center in the ventral region, which can induce swallowing movements and swallowing time, while glutamate receptors, γ-aminobutyric acid receptors, and c-fos protein in the nucleus ambiguus are closely related to swallowing. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of acupoint dressing therapy using Expectorant Choking Formula on the expression of glutamate receptors, γ-aminobutyric acid receptors, and c-fos protein in the nucleus ambiguus of rats with ischemia-reperfusion injury, and to investigate the mechanism of swallowing disorder in rats with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion treated by acupoint dressing therapy using Expectorant Choking Formula.  METHODS: Seventy Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal group (n=16), ischemia-reperfusion injury model group (n=18), patching group (n=18), and sham patching group (n=18). The model group, patching group, and sham patching group were modeled by reperfusion after 90 minutes of transient cerebral ischemia using the thread-occlusion method. After 6 hours of modeling, neurological function was scored and the rats with a score of 2 were selected for subsequent experiments. The rats were treated with acupoint dressing therapy using Expectorant Choking Formula on the second day of modeling, the sham patching group was given drug-free dressing on the basis of the model preparation, and the other two groups were kept normally for 1 month. Body mass, swallowing initiation response time and the number of swallows were recorded in each group on days 2, 7, 14 and 30 after modeling. After 4 weeks of treatment, the water content in brain tissue was measured; the expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid A receptor α1, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 1 and c-fos protein in the nucleus ambiguus of the medullary swallowing center was detected by immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR and western blot. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the normal group, the body mass, the number of swallows within 1 minute and swallow initiation reaction time of rats in the model, patching and sham patching groups decreased on days 14 and 30 after modeling (P < 0.05), and the swallow initiation reaction time was prolonged (P < 0.05); on day 30, the body mass and the number of swallows of rats increased in the patching group compared with the model group (P < 0.05), while the swallowing initiation time was shortened (P < 0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, the water content of brain tissue was significantly reduced in the patching group compared with the model group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the positive expression and the mRNA and protein expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid A receptor α1 in the nucleus ambiguus of the medulla oblongata were increased in the patching group but still lower than those in the normal group; the positive expression and the mRNA and protein expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 1 and c-fos were decreased in the patching group but significantly higher than those in the normal group (P < 0.05). These findings indicate that the acupoint dressing therapy using Expectorant Choking Formula could improve the swallowing function of rats with post-stroke swallowing disorder, and its mechanism of action might be related to improving the degree of brain edema, regulating the neurotransmitters glutamate receptors, gamma-aminobutyric acid A receptors and c-fos protein levels in the nucleus ambiguus. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Tangbikang reduces sciatic nerve oxidative stress injury in a rat model of diabetic peripheral neuropathy Jiang Shengyuan, Zhang Yaqi, Bi Jingxin, Zhang Chengfei, Zhang Qiue, Mu Xiaohong, Bai Huizhong, Zuo Xinwei, Liu Tonghua, Qin Lingling 2023, 27 (32):  5162-5167.  doi: 10.12307/2023.826 Abstract ( 257 )   PDF (1301KB) ( 88 )   Save BACKGROUND: Tangbikang is a Traditional Chinese Medicine compound that can improve blood glucose and alleviate diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, its regulatory mechanism is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of Tangbikang on oxidative stress of the sciatic nerve in diabetic rats and to explore the targeted regulatory mechanism of Tangbikang in alleviating diabetic peripheral neuropathy.  METHODS: Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal group, model group and Tangbikang group, with 10 rats in each group. Animal models of diabetic peripheral neuropathy were established in the model group and Tangbikang group. After modeling, normal saline or Tangbikang (2.5 g/kg per day) was administered orally for 12 weeks. Body mass and fasting blood glucose levels of rats were detected at 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after administration. Hot plate test and Von Frey test were used to detect the thermal and mechanical pain thresholds of rats at 12 weeks after administration. Sciatic nerve conduction velocity and blood flow velocity were detected before sampling. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy were used to observe the morphological changes of the sciatic nerve. The expression levels of superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, interleukin 1β, and tumor necrosis factor α in the sciatic nerve were detected by colorimetric method and ELISA kit. The expression levels of PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 pathway related proteins in the sciatic nerve tissue were detected by western blot assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The fasting blood glucose level of rats in the Tangbikang group was significantly lower than that in the model group at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after modeling (P < 0.05), and the body mass of rats in the model group was significantly lower than that in the Tangbikang group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the mechanical pain threshold and thermal pain threshold were significantly improved in the Tangbikang group 12 weeks after modeling (P < 0.05), and the sciatic nerve conduction velocity and blood flow velocity in the Tangbikang group were significantly higher than those in the model group  (P < 0.05). The order, density and myelination of nerve fibers in the Tangbikang group were better than those in the model group. ELISA and colorimetric results showed that compared with the model group, the levels of malondialdehyde, interleukin 1β, and tumor necrosis factor α proteins in the sciatic nerve tissue were significantly decreased in the Tangbikang group, while the level of superoxide dismutase protein was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Western blot results showed that the expressions of PI3K, p-Akt/AKT, and p-FoxO1/FoxO1 proteins in the sciatic nerve of the Tangbikang group were significantly higher than those of the model group (P < 0.05). To conclude, Tangbikang improves sciatic nerve function and reduces sciatic nerve oxidative stress injury in diabetic rats, and the mechanism may be related to the regulation of PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 pathway by Tangbikang. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Has-miR-100-5p targeting zinc finger and BTB domain containing 7A is a potential target for postmenopausal osteoporosis Maihemutijiang · Muhaimaiti, Maimaitishawutiaji · Maimaiti, Tang Junwei, Zhang Yuxin 2023, 27 (32):  5168-5172.  doi: 10.12307/2023.843 Abstract ( 253 )   PDF (1355KB) ( 72 )   Save BACKGROUND: miRNAs play an important role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, which therefore can be important therapeutic targets. Among them, targeting the miR-100-5p regulatory axis to promote osteoblast differentiation is a potential therapeutic target for osteoporosis.  OBJECTIVE: To explore the targeted regulatory roles of has-miR-100-5p and has-miR-101-3p in postmenopausal osteoporosis.  METHODS: Differentially expressed genes between high and low bone mineral density in the GSE56814 and GSE56815 datasets were identified and subjected to enrichment analyses. Target genes of has-miR-100-5p and has-miR-101-3p among the differentially expressed genes were predicted. Peripheral blood samples from 40 patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis and 40 healthy controls were selected and qRT-PCR experiments were performed to detect the differential expression of has-miR-100-5p and has-miR-101-3p as well as target genes. Dual luciferase reporter assay was used to measure the targeting effect of miRNAs to the 3'UTR of target genes.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 81 common differentially expressed genes were identified between high and low bone mineral density, mainly significantly enriched in immunity, nuclear factor-κB compound, and tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway. Has-miR-100-5p and has-miR-101-3p were targeted to regulate zinc finger and BTB domain containing 7A (ZBTB7A) based on miRTargetbase database and miRTarget database predictions. Has-miR-100-5p was up-regulated (P < 0.001) and has-miR-101-3p and ZBTB7A were down-regulated (P < 0.001) in postmenopausal osteoporosis patients compared with the healthy controls. The fluorescence activity of 293T cells was down-regulated after co-transfection of has-miR-100-5p with wild-type ZBTB7A-3’UTR. To conclude, has-miR-100-5p targeting ZBTB7A may be a potential target for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Improved laminectomy for constructing a rat model of spinal cord injury Du Kairan, Deng Qiang, Guo Tiefeng, Zhang Yanjun, Peng Randong, Li Junjie, Wang Yurong, Zhang Kaidong, Luo Linzhao 2023, 27 (32):  5173-5177.  doi: 10.12307/2023.825 Abstract ( 278 )   PDF (944KB) ( 24 )   Save BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injury has become a worldwide problem. Experimental animal modeling is the first step to explore the disease; however, there is a lack of experimental animal models that are more effective. OBJECTIVE: To establish a rat model of spinal cord injury that can be replicated, regulated, has little trauma, low mortality, low blood loss, wide application and short intraoperative time. METHODS: Forty Sprague-Dawley rats with similar body mass were selected and randomly divided into conventional model group and improved model group (n=20 per group), where the model of spinal cord injury was made using Allen’s method and improved method, respectively. In the improved model group, a dental drill was used for biting. Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, mortality, and Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan locomotor rating scale scores at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 days after beating were compared between the two groups. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The improved method for constructing the animal model of secondary spinal cord injury has the advantages of shorter modeling time, less intraoperative blood loss, lower mortablity, and more centralized Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan score data as compared with the conventional method, which proves that the improved method is more suitable for establishing the model of secondary spinal cord injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Treadmill training promotes recovery of small intestine function through inhibition of apoptosis in rats with spinal cord injury Ouyang shuai, Wang Xianbin, Zhang Qian, Chen Yuan, Deng Luoyi, Wang Jia, Hu Shouxing, Pan Xiao, Wu Shuang 2023, 27 (32):  5178-5183.  doi: 10.12307/2023.846 Abstract ( 262 )   PDF (2392KB) ( 99 )   Save BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injury can cause multi-organ dysfunction, among which intestinal dysfunction seriously affects patients’ disease treatment and quality of life. Some studies have shown that aerobic exercise can improve intestinal structure and function, but the mechanism needs to be further explored.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of treadmill training on the function of small intestine in rats with spinal cord injury and its relationship with intestinal cell apoptosis.  METHODS: The modified spinal cord percussion method was used to prepare a rat model of T10 incomplete spinal cord injury. A total of 54 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a sham-operated group, a model group, and a training group, with 18 rats in each group. The treadmill training was started 7 days after modeling for 3 weeks. After the final intervention, the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan score and the inclined plate test were used for locomotor testing. Spinal cord tissue samples were taken 0.5 cm above and below the injured site to detect neuronal survival and astrocyte activation levels for testing the effect of exercise on neurological function. The intestinal transport function was evaluated by gavage staining of the first black stool and intestinal staining propulsive efficiency in each group. At 14, 21 and 28 days after spinal cord injury, the pathological structural changes of the small intestine were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining and the expression of the small intestinal tight junction protein Occludin was detected by immunofluorescence; the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins Bcl-2, Caspase-9, Bax, Caspase-3, and Cyt-C were detected by western blot.   RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the model group, the training group had recovered neurological function with higher Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan scores and inclined plate angles (P < 0.05), more survived neurons, and less neuroinflammation. At 14 days after spinal cord injury, compared with the sham-operated group, the small intestinal tissue in the model and training groups showed pathological changes, such as mucosal layer disruption, intestinal villus atrophy, reduced number of cup cells, and nuclear consolidation. The pathological damage of the small intestine in the model group peaked at 21 days after spinal cord injury and lasted until the end of the experiment. The pathological changes such as mucosal continuity and intestinal villus atrophy in the training group showed significant improvement at 28 days after surgery. The first black stool time in the training group was lower than that in the model group (P < 0.05), and the intestinal propulsive efficiency was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05), suggesting that the intestinal transport function improved. At 28 days after spinal cord injury, the expression of the small intestinal tight junction protein Occludin was higher in the training group than the model group (P < 0.01), as well as the Bcl-2 expression (P < 0.05) but the expression of apoptosis-related proteins Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Bax Caspase-9, Bax, and Cyt-C was decreased (P < 0.05). To conclude, the treadmill training can protect the nervous system and small intestinal system in rats with spinal cord injury and the recovery of small intestine function may be related to the level of apoptosis in small intestine tissue. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Mechanism of paroxetine on osteoclast differentiation Mo Yaomin, Liu Pan, Ma Ruixin, Zeng Gaofeng, Zong Shaohui 2023, 27 (32):  5184-5190.  doi: 10.12307/2023.534 Abstract ( 272 )   PDF (1628KB) ( 25 )   Save BACKGROUND: Excessive activation of osteoclasts is one of the key links in the occurrence and development of osteoporosis. Exploring the function of osteoclasts and developing drugs that can inhibit osteoclast differentiation and reduce bone resorption is an important means to explore the clinical treatment of osteoporosis.  OBJECTIVE: To analyze the mechanism of paroxetine on osteoclast differentiation based on the mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor-κB signal pathway.  METHODS: (1) In vitro experiment: Different concentrations of paroxetine were used to interfere with bone marrow-derived macrophages in mice, and then the effect of paroxetine on cell activity was determined by cell counting kit-8. Under the induction of macrophage colony stimulating factor and receptor activator of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand, different concentrations of paroxetine were used to interfere with osteoclast differentiation. The number of osteoclasts was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining. The effect of paroxetine on the mRNA expression of osteoclast differentiation related cytokines was detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative real-time PCR. The effect of paroxetine on nuclear factor κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signal pathways in the cells was detected by western blot. (2) In vivo experiment: Forty male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into four groups (n=10 per group): blank control group, lipopolysaccharide group, paroxetine 2 mg/kg treatment group, and paroxetine 5 mg/kg treatment group. Lipopolysaccharide was injected subcutaneously into the sagittal suture of the skull every 2 days to construct the mouse skull osteolysis model in the lipopolysaccharide group, paroxetine 2 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg groups. The corresponding dose of paroxetine was injected 1 day after each lipopolysaccharide injection in the two paroxetine groups. After 14 days of treatment, mouse skulls were isolated for Micro-CT scanning.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) In vitro experiment: there was no significant effect on the proliferation of bone marrow-derived macrophages when paroxetine concentration was ≤ 5 μmol/L, while paroxetine concentration > 10 μmol/L could inhibit cell proliferation. When paroxetine concentration was ≥ 0.5 μmol/L, there was a significant reduction in the number and morphology of osteoclast differentiation as well as the mRNA expression of c-Fos, Nfatc1, Ctsk, Mmp9, Acp5, and Atp6v0d2. Paroxetine at a dose of 0.5 μmol/L could inhibit the protein expression of c-Fos, Nfatc1, and Ctsk through activating nuclear factor-κB/mitogen-activated protein kinase signal pathway. (2) In vivo experiment: Micro-CT scanning results showed that compared with lipopolysaccharide, 5 mg/kg paroxetine could significantly increase the number of trabeculae and bone volume fraction and reduce bone surface bone volume ratio and trabecular separation (P < 0.05). (3) To conclude, paroxetine can inhibit bone resorption by reducing osteoclast differentiation and has a potential effect in the treatment of osteoporosis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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The relationship between postmenopausal bone mineral density and specific physiological period values in women based on NHANES database Yang Yunhong, Fan Yinuo, Zhang Jiahao, Zhang Xiangqi, Zhao Xiaofeng, Chen Zhenqiu, Sun Xiaofeng 2023, 27 (32):  5191-5195.  doi: 10.12307/2023.811 Abstract ( 303 )   PDF (850KB) ( 49 )   Save BACKGROUND: Clarifying the exact relationship between specific physiological periods and postmenopausal low bone mineral density in women can be a key to predicting low bone mineral density in postmenopausal women and provide a reference value for preventing the occurrence of low bone mineral density. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between different special periods and postmenopausal low bone mineral density in women.  METHODS: A total of 15 560 samples were collected from the NHANES database (published from 2017 to 2020), and 1 563 participants were screened out. Their bone mineral density values were acquired to calculate the T-score. Those with osteoporosis and osteopenia were enrolled in observation group, while those with normal bone mass acted as controls. Three linear regression models were established to evaluate the effects of age at menarche, age at menopause, gravidity and parity on postmenopausal low bone mineral density. Finally, the results of multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to verify the relationship among gravidity, parity and low bone mineral density.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The incidence of postmenopausal low bone mineral density was 1.62 times higher in participants aged > 13 years at menarche than those aged < 12 years at menarche. Relative to menopausal age under 45, the odds ratio value for postmenopausal low bone mineral density was 0.72 for those between 45-55 years of age at menopause and 0.51 for those over 55 years of age at menopause. Gravidity was negatively correlated with the T scores of the femur and greater trochanter but showed no correlation with the T score of the lumbar spine. Parity was not related to the T scores of the femur and lumbar spine but only negatively related to the T score of the greater trochanter. The later the age of menarche, the earlier the age of menopause, the more pregnancies, the greater the likelihood of postmenopausal lower bone mineral density. Gravidity has the most significant effect on the bone mineral density of the femur and greater trochanter.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Changes in periapical tissue of type 2 diabetic mice during tooth occlusal elongation Zheng Yi, Wei Zhoudan, Guo Dong, Shi Ziqing, Niu Weiran, Xu Zhuoyu, Li Pengcui, Li Wenjin 2023, 27 (32):  5196-5202.  doi: 10.12307/2023.820 Abstract ( 199 )   PDF (1524KB) ( 24 )   Save BACKGROUND: In clinical work, some diabetic patients often have tooth loss. If the tooth loss is not timely repaired, it will lead to the elongation of the maxillary teeth, resulting in the reduction of the vertical occlusal gap, early occlusal contact, occlusal interference, and even tooth extraction. OBJECTIVE: To observe the expression of receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and bone sialoprotein (BSP) in periapical tissue of diabetic mice during tooth occlusal elongation, and explore the effect of diabetes on periapical tissues. METHODS: Totally 120 male C57BL mice were divided randomly into diabetic group (n=40), negative control group (n=40) and blank control group (n=40). Animal models of type II diabetes were established in the diabetic group by intraperitoneal injection of 70 mg/kg streptozotocin. The negative control group was intraperitoneally injected with the same amount of sodium citrate solution, while the blank control group was not disposed. After modeling, 30 mice randomly were selected from each group to extract the right maxillary molars. Then, the mice were further divided into five subgroups of 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 days (n=6 per group). The mice were killed respectively according to the time specified by each group to obtain their right mandibles. The mRNA and protein expression levels of RAGE and BSP in periapical tissue were detected by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Real-time PCR results indicated significantly higher RAGE and lower BSP relative mRNA expression levels in the diabetic group than the blank and negative control groups (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference between blank and negative control groups (P > 0.05). With the time extension of tooth extraction, the relative expression levels of two genes in the three groups both showed a trend of continuous growth. In the diabetic group, the expression levels increased obviously from 3 to 6 days, while in the blank and negative control groups, the expression levels raised apparently from 6 to 9 days. The increase trend of RAGE mRNA relative expression in the diabetic group was more obvious than that in the blank and negative control groups, while the increase trend of BSP mRNA relative expression did the opposite. Immunohistochemical staining results showed that the positive rates of RAGE and BSP in the periapical tissue of the three groups increased with the time prolongation of tooth extraction. The positive rate of RAGE was significantly higher in the diabetic group than the blank and negative control groups at each time after tooth extraction (P < 0.05). The positive rate of BSP was significantly lower in the diabetic group than the blank and negative control groups at 6, 9 and 12 days after tooth extraction (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the positive rate of RAGE and BSP between the blank and negative control groups (P > 0.05). To conclude, the expressions of RAGE and BSP in the periapical tissues of diabetic mice increased gradually with the time extension of tooth extraction, while he growth rate and expression of BSP were lower in the diabetic group than the negative and blank control groups. These indicate that diabetes may inhibit the expression of BSP. However, the high expression level of RAGE may be related to the accelerated damage to periapical tissue and delayed tissue reconstruction in diabetes. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Changes in the temporomandibular joint following maxillary protraction for skeletal class III malocclusion at different ages Liu Yafei, Wang Yalin, Zuo Yanping, Zhao Lixia, Wei Jing, Zhang Chao, Song Lei 2023, 27 (32):  5203-5208.  doi: 10.12307/2023.816 Abstract ( 321 )   PDF (1164KB) ( 53 )   Save BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that there are significant differences in occlusal and maxillofacial changes in patients with skeletal class III malocclusion of different ages after maxillary protraction treatment. However, the difference of temporomandibular joint changes in patients with different ages remains unknown.  OBJECTIVE: To study the influence of age on the changes of the temporomandibular joint after maxillary protraction treatment of skeletal class III malocclusion.  METHODS: Fifty-eight children with skeletal class III malocclusion aged 8-14 years were divided into two groups. Twenty-nine children aged 8-11 years were diagnosed with late mixed dentitions. Twenty-nine children aged 12-14 years were diagnosed with early permanent dentitions. X-ray lateral cephalograms were taken pre- and post-treatment, and cephalometric analysis of occlusal and maxillofacial regions and quantitative analysis of temporomandibular joint position in the coordinate system were carried out. Paired t-test was used for intragroup comparison. Independent t-test was used for intergroup comparison. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between occlusal and maxillofacial changes and temporomandibular joint changes.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The occlusal and maxillofacial structure and the temporomandibular joint changed significantly in the two groups after treatment. In the sagittal direction of the occlusal and maxillofacial structure, subspinale-nasion-supramental angle (ANB) in the 8-11-year-old group increased by 4.76°, and nasion-subspinale line and pogonion-subspinale line angle (NA-PA) increased by 9.02°, which was significantly larger than those in the 12-14-year-old group (3.97° and 6.88°) (P < 0.05). In the vertical direction, the mandible plane and sella-nasion line angle (MP-SN) and Frankle plane and sella-nasion line angle (FH-MP) in the 8-11-year-old group increased by 1.92° and 3.02° respectively, which was significantly higher than those in the 12-14-year-old group (1.02° and 0.78°) (P < 0.05). There were significant changes in the temporomandibular joint between the two age groups. Fossa summit on the X axis (S-Fsx) in the 8-11-year-old group moved backward more significantly than that in the 12-14-year-old group. Fossa posterior on the X axis (S-Fpx) in the 8-11-year-old group moved backward, while that in the 12-14-year-old group moved forward. Condyle anterior (S-Cix) and condyle tangent on the X axis (S-T4x) in the two groups both moved backward, which were more significant in the 8-11-year-old group than the 12-14-year-old group. The changes of the temporomandibular joint were correlated with the changes of the occlusal and maxillofacial structure. In the 8-11-year-old group, there was a negative correlation between S-Fpx and sella-nasion-supramental angle (SNB), nasion-pogonion line and Frankle plane angle (NP-FH) (P < 0.05, r=-0.489; P < 0.05, r=-0.424). In the 12-14-year-old group, S-Fpx was positively correlated with the distance from the upper incisor to the nasion-subspinale line (U1-NAmm) (P < 0.01, r=0.439). In the 8-11-year-old group, S-Cix, S-T4x and the condyle superior on the X axis (S-Cox) were negatively correlated with SNB, NP-FH and MP-SN. To conclude, age has obvious effects on the changes of the temporomandibular joint in skeletal class III malocclusion following maxillary protraction. In the 8-11-year-old group, articular fossa and condyle moved backward obviously, fossa anterior moved up, and the posterior joint space increased. In the 12-14-year-old group, the fossa posterior moved forward and the condyle anterior moved down, but the joint space did not change. There are different occlusal and maxillofacial factors affecting temporomandibular joint changes at different ages. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Expression and significance of pyroptosis-related factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis Wang Qiuyuan, Liu Youwen, Yue Chen, Hou Hongli, Zhang Xue 2023, 27 (32):  5209-5213.  doi: 10.12307/2023.821 Abstract ( 216 )   PDF (811KB) ( 14 )   Save BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis is a common autoimmune disease that mainly affects the joints and is characterized by persistent synovial inflammation. Studies have suggested that proinflammatory pyroptosis is closely related to the occurrence and development of rheumatoid arthritis. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the expression levels of pyroptosis-related factors NOD-like receptor protein 3, cysteine aspartic acid-specific protease-1 (caspase-1), interleukin-18 and interleukin-1β in serum and articular fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their clinical significance.  METHODS: From January 2021 to January 2022, 24 patients with rheumatoid arthritis admitted to the Rheumatology Department of Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital of Henan Province (Henan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital) were selected as rheumatoid arthritis group. Thirty osteoarthritis patients with knee joint effusion were selected as osteoarthritis group. Forty healthy subjects were selected as control group. C-reactive protein level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody level, rheumatoid factor levels, and disease activity score in 28 joints were measured and recorded. NOD-like receptor protein 3, caspase-1, interleukin-18 and interleukin-1β levels in serum and joint fluid were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to analyze the correlation between their expression levels and the clinical indicators of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The serum levels of NOD-like receptor protein 3, caspase-1, interleukin-18 and interleukin-1β in the rheumatoid arthritis group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.0001), while the articular fluid levels of NOD-like receptor protein 3, caspase-1, interleukin-18 and interleukin-1β in the rheumatoid arthritis group were significantly higher than those in the osteoarthritis group (P < 0.05-0.01). The expression levels of NOD-like receptor protein 3, caspase-1, interleukin-18 and interleukin-1β in serum and articular fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis were positively correlated with D disease activity score in 28 joints, C-reactive protein level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. To conclude, pyroptosis-related factors are significantly increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and correlated with disease activity, suggesting that pyroptosis may play a role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effect of astragalus polysaccharides on orthodontic bone remodeling Wang Huida, Sun Xiaotong, Bi Lan, Wang Zixuan, Zhang Ronghe 2023, 27 (32):  5214-5218.  doi: 10.12307/2023.817 Abstract ( 292 )   PDF (836KB) ( 118 )   Save BACKGROUND: Astragalus membranaceus is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb. Astragalus polysaccharide is the central active ingredient extracted from the stem or root of Astragalus membranaceus. It has the functions of anti-tumor, improving memory, anti-osteoporosis, regulating blood glucose and regulating immunity. Studies have shown that astragalus polysaccharides can regulate the movement speed of orthodontic teeth by affecting periodontal tissue remodeling and inhibit root resorption and postoperative recurrence caused by orthodontic treatment. Local western medicine combined with astragalus injection can significantly promote ulcer healing and delay ulcer recurrence in patients with oral ulcer. OBJECTIVE: To review the effects of astragalus polysaccharides on tooth movement, root resorption, recurrence after orthodontic surgery and the treatment of oral ulcer combined with western drug therapy during orthodontic treatment, thereby providing reference for its better application in orthodontic treatment. METHODS: The first author searched WanFang, CNKI, and PubMed for relevant literature about the effect of astragalus polysaccharides on orthodontic tooth movement, periodontal tissue remodeling, root resorption, orthodontic oral ulcer and postoperative recurrence published in the past 15 years. The keywords were “Astragalus membranaceus, orthodontic tooth movement, periodontium remodeling, osteoblast, osteoclast, orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption, recurrence after orthodontic treatment, orthodontic mouth ulcers” in Chinese and English. Finally, 54 eligible articles were included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Astragalus polysaccharide plays an important role in the adjustment of tissue remodeling as well as in orthodontic treatment, including accelerating tooth movement, promoting periodontal tissue remodeling, inhibiting root resorption and postoperative recurrence. Local western drug therapy combined with astragalus injection can also treat oral ulcer and reduce its occurrence by improving the imbalance of T cell subsets. However, most of them are limited to the animal experimental stage and more clinical studies are needed. Astragalus polysaccharide, as a commonly used ingredient of Chinese herbal medicine, is expected to be used as an adjunct to orthodontic treatment in the future to enhance and maintain therapeutic effects. The combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine and tissue engineering can provide further strategies to promote the development of regenerative medicine. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Roles of exercise intervention in intestinal flora in autoimmune diseases Leng Siyi, Pu Rui, Chen Ziyang, Yang Qihang, Song Yongjing, Liu Hui 2023, 27 (32):  5219-5226.  doi: 10.12307/2023.827 Abstract ( 277 )   PDF (914KB) ( 45 )   Save BACKGROUND: The intestinal flora is primarily responsible for maintaining the balance between host defense and immune tolerance. In addition, the intestinal flora is closely related to autoimmune diseases, and exercise has an important regulatory effect on the intestinal flora, which in turn affects the occurrence and development of various autoimmune diseases. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the effect of intestinal flora on different autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis and ankylosing spondylitis, and to analyze the effect of exercise on the intestinal flora and the effect of exercise in regulating the intestinal flora on autoimmune protection, aiming to provide a new reference and basis for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases. METHODS: PubMed and CNKI databases were searched for relevant articles published between 1996 and 2022 using the keywords of “Intestinal flora, intestinal bacteria, autoimmune diseases, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, ankylosing spondylitis, exercise” in English and Chinese, respectively. Finally 90 studies were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis and ankylosing spondylitis are affected by the intestinal flora, and the intestinal flora plays a key role in the regulation of autoimmune diseases. Different exercise modes have different effects on the intestinal flora. Aerobic exercise can increase the diversity and abundance of intestinal flora in the body, improve the immune barrier function of the intestinal mucosa, reduce the metabolic inflammatory response of the body, thereby promoting health and enhancing the body’s resistance. However, the pathways and specific mechanisms of aerobic exercise regulating the intestinal flora and promoting body health need further studies. The effect of anaerobic exercise on the intestinal flora of the body is still controversial, which may be related to the heterogeneity of the study object, research method, and time intensity of exercise intervention and needs further digging. However, studies have shown that anaerobic exercise can improve the health of the body by reducing the body’s inflammatory response, improving insulin resistance and improving glucose and lipid metabolism disorders. Exercise can play an important role in the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases by regulating the intestinal flora, inhibiting inflammatory response, regulating intestinal flora homeostasis and improving blood glucose homeostasis, thereby providing new ideas and strategies for exercise to promote physical health and the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Mechanism of clock gene Bmal1 in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis Du Chendan, Du Bingli, Ning Xiao, Zong Mingrui, Li Bing, Wu Xiuping 2023, 27 (32):  5227-5231.  doi: 10.12307/2023.814 Abstract ( 264 )   PDF (807KB) ( 50 )   Save BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis is a common disease in stomatology and its pathogenesis is complex. Recently, it has been found that the decreased expression of clock gene Bmal1 can lead to osteoarthritis-like pathological changes of the temporomandibular joint in mice, but the mechanism of Bmal1 in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis remains unclear.  OBJECTIVE: To summarize the possible mechanism of clock gene Bmal1 in the development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis, so as to provide new insights into the pathogenesis of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis.  METHODS: Articles published from inception to 2022 were retrieved in PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI by the keywords of “TMJOA, osteoarthritis, TMD, condylar cartilage, Bmal1, circadian, circadian clock, sleep” in English and Chinese. Fifty articles were finally selected for this review according to the criteria of inclusion and exclusion. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Circadian rhythm disturbance caused by sleep deprivation can lead to osteoarthritis-like pathological changes of the temporomandibular joint in mice, suggesting that circadian rhythm disturbance is a new risk factor for temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. As a core clock factor of circadian rhythm, Bmal1 plays an important role in maintaining cartilage homeostasis of the temporomandibular joint. When Bmal1 expression is decreased, anabolism of the articular cartilage is decreased, catabolism is increased, condylar cartilage is degraded, and temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis is induced. Bmal1 overexpression can alleviate the pathological symptoms of osteoarthritis. Bmal1 can also affect chondrogenesis and endochondral ossification of the condyle cartilage through downstream signaling pathways, resulting in dysplasia of the condyle and mandible, which provides an anatomical basis for the occurrence and development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. At the same time, Bmal1 can promote aging and obesity by regulating oxidative stress and fat metabolism, thereby increasing the susceptibility of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. Therefore, the clock gene Bmal1 may have direct and/or indirect effects on the occurrence and development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis.  Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of hypoxia environment on microvessels and bone metabolism and bone repair in chronic periodontitis Shan Chao, Wu Zeyu, Zhao jin 2023, 27 (32):  5232-5237.  doi: 10.12307/2023.842 Abstract ( 271 )   PDF (1080KB) ( 71 )   Save BACKGROUND: Hypoxia and inflammation usually occur together in many diseases. The microenvironment in which periodontal inflammation occurs is hypoxic. Hypoxia and the hypoxia-inducible factor pathway play a key role in the metabolism of periodontal tissue and alveolar bone. OBJECTIVE: To explore the role of hypoxia in periodontal inflammation, bone repair and regeneration and the related cellular and molecular mechanisms and to briefly discuss the application of hypoxia mimetic agents in periodontal bone regeneration. METHODS: PubMed, CNKI and WanFang database were searched for relevant literature published from January 1990 to October 2022. The search words were “hypoxia; hypoxia inducible factor-1α; periodontitis; periodontal; bone; angiogenesis”in Chinese and English, respectively. A total of 49 articles were included for review, based on the content of the articles that were similar or consistent with the topic of the present study. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Hypoxia can cause oxidative stress and aggravate periodontal inflammation. Hypoxia promotes angiogenesis in periodontitis. Hypoxia can promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of periodontal stem cells and promote osteogenesis and osteoclast differentiation. It is helpful to design new therapies for accelerating bone repair and regeneration by enriching the understanding of periodontal tissue and bone regeneration through hypoxic and hypoxia-inducible factor pathways. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Interventional effect of microRNA on osteonecrosis of the femoral head through bone metabolism mechanism Han Jie, Lin Zhiyu, Xu Zhiwei, Zhang Xiaoyun, Shang Yuzhi, Liu Hao 2023, 27 (32):  5238-5248.  doi: 10.12307/2023.496 Abstract ( 255 )   PDF (1468KB) ( 31 )   Save BACKGROUND: In recent years, studies have shown that microRNA (miRNA) has a significant effect on osteonecrosis of the femoral head under the mechanism of bone metabolism. Further research in this direction is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. OBJECTIVE: By referring to relevant literature worldwide, to review the research progress in the effect of miRNA on osteonecrosis of the femoral head through the mechanism of bone metabolism or its relevant signal pathways, thereby providing ideas and reference for the prevention and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. METHODS: Relevant literature published from 2011 to 2022 were searched in CNKI, WanFang, VIP, PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrance, and Nature databases using the search terms of “ONFH, miRNA, bone metabolism, osteoblast, osteoclast, signaling path, Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt, TGF-β, MAPK” in Chinese and English. A total of 77 articles were included as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: miRNA is involved in regulating the differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts in the bone metabolism mechanism of osteonecrosis of the femoral head, so as to influence the progress of osteonecrosis of the femoral head to different extents. miRNA can directly or via Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt, transforming growth factor-β, MAPK and related signaling pathways, under the mechanism of bone metabolism, regulate osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation in osteonecrosis of the femoral head to different extents. Through the different effects of different miRNAs in this process, it can promote or inhibit osteonecrosis of the femoral head caused by the imbalance of osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation. Therefore, due to the positive and negative effects on osteonecrosis of the femoral head, miRNA can relieve the condition of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. In recent years, the mechanism of miRNAs underlying the prevention and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head have mainly been described from the perspective of the linkage of multiple pathogeneses, but not have been analyzed from the perspective of a single pathogenesis. Based on the existing basis, systematic and in-depth research on the interventional effect of miRNA on osteonecrosis of the femoral head under the mechanism of bone metabolism is warranted. Moreover, on this basis, the possibility of direct interaction between miRNA and osteonecrosis should be explored, and the research on other mechanisms other than bone metabolism mechanism should also be improved. Further explorations are required on the molecular mechanism of miRNA in the intervention of osteonecrosis of the femoral head under the mechanism of bone metabolism and its relationship with bone tissue engineering, so as to provide ideas for the prevention and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics