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The meibomian gland is a unique sebaceous gland located in the eyelid. Its main function is to secrete lipids and form the lipid layer of the tear film to delay the evaporation of waterborne tears, increase the surface tension of the tear film, and to lubricate the contact area of the eyelid and eyeball. Abnormal secretion of the meibomian gland is known as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which has become the most important cause of evaporative dry eye disease (DED). The clinical pathophysio-logical process and underlying molecular mechanisms of MGD are not clear. As serious side effects may occur with the long-term use of hormonotherapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the treatment of MGD, meibomian gland physiotherapy is considered the most effective and safest therapy for MGD. This review summarizes the physical therapy modalities of western medicine (WM) and traditiond Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of MGD to provide optimal treatments for these patients and to further lay a foundation for mechanistic studies of MGD.

Objective: To explore the molecular targets and associated potential pathways of Lycii Fructus (LF, Gou Qi Zi, 枸杞子) in the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) by the approaches of network pharmacology and bioinformatics. Methods: The potential blood-entry active ingredients and targets of LF were retrieved by Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). RP-related gene targets were retrieved through disease comprehensive databases. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of LF component-targets and RP disease-targets was constructed by STRING, and the intersection of the 2 networks was extracted. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of theintersection network were conducted by Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). CytoHubba was used to screen the key targets. Results: A total of 188 chemical constituents related to LF was retrieved from TCMSP database. 45 active ingredients were screened according to pharmacokinetic parameters oral bioavailability (OB) and drug similarity (DL). 36 active ingredients were further screened and 201 targets related to these constituents were obtained. 206 target genes directly related to RP were obtained from the disease comprehensive databases, and 89 genes were obtained from the intersection of component-target and disease-target PPI network. These genes were mainly involved in intracellular signal transduction, GTPase activity regulation, cell morphology regulation, and other biological processes. Molecular functions were mainly related to Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor activity, GTPase activator activity, receptor signal protein serine/threonine kinase activity and so on. They were enriched in the cytoplasm, cell membrane, Golgi apparatus, and other regions. The mechanism was related to cell cycle pathways, neurotrophin signaling pathways, Ras signaling pathways, and so on. 10 key gene targets of LF in the treatment of RP were screened. Conclusions: The material basis for LF to exert its pharmacodynamic effect is 36 active ingredients such as cycloartenol, mandenol, and so on. The key targets of LF in the treatment of RP include 10 genes, such as Rho, PAK, and so on. The main mechanism is related to the regulation of the Ras signaling pathway, neurotrophin signaling pathway, cell cycle related pathway, and other signaling networks. Keywords: Network pharmacology, Retinitis pigmentosa, Lycii Fructus (Gou Qi Zi, 枸;杞;子;), Molecular mechanism, Target, Signaling pathway

Objective: To investigate the effects of Lycii Fructus (LF, Gou Qi Zi, 枸杞子) and Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix Ex Rhizoma (SM, Dan Shen, 丹 参 ) on the syndrome of deficiency with blood stasis in the RCS (rdy-/-, p-/-) rats with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Methods: A total of 32 RCS (rdy-/-, p-/-) rats were divided into 4 groups (equal amounts of female and male rats in each group): model group treated with 0.9% normal saline, LF group treated with LF formula granules, SM group treated with SM formula granules, and LF and SM (L·S) group treated with LF and SM formula granules. Eight RCS (rdy +/ +, p +/ +) rats (4 males and 4 females) were treated with 0.9% normal saline to serve as blank group. The contents of E2, PG, P-Selectin, plasma viscosity, whole blood relative index of the high shear rate and fibrinogen content in plasma, and the content of cAMP and cGMP in retinal homogenate were detected. The retina was evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Results: The contents of E2, PG, P-Selectin, plasma viscosity, whole blood relative index of the high shear rate, and fibrinogen content in the plasma of L·S group significantly differed from those of model group (P < 0.01), but were similar to those of blank group. The contents of cAMP and cGMP in the retinal homogenate of L·S group significantly differed from those in model group (P < 0.01) but were similar to those in blank group (P > 0.05). Conclusions: LF and SM can effectively treat retinitis pigmentosa by ameliorating the syndrome of deficiency with blood stasis. Keywords: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), Lycii Fructus (Gou Qi Zi, 枸;杞;子;), Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix Ex Rhizoma (Dan Shen, 丹;参;), Syndrome of deficiency with blood stasis, RCS (rdy-/-, p-/-) rat

Objective: To observe the effects of Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules on the expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in lacrimal gland cells in castrated male rabbits. Methods: A total of 30 New Zealand male white rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups. Group A: blank group; group B: model group; group C: Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules group; group D: placebo group; group E: testosterone group. Except for the group A, all rabbits were treated with bilateral testicular and epididymis resection before intervention. Rabbits in group C were administered with Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules (100 mg/kg), 3 times per day; Rabbits in group D were administered with normal saline, 3 times per day. Rabbits in group E were injected with testosterone propionate (0.5 mL/kg) in the thigh muscle, every 3 days. Schirmer I test (SIT) and break-up time (BUT) were measured on 1st day before modeling and 30th day after modeling. After 30 days of intervention, all rabbits were sacrificed. The removal lacrimal gland was stained in immunohistochemica staining. The expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in lacrimal gland tissue of each group was detected, and the structure of lacrimal gland was observed. Results: The results of SIT and BUT showed that there was significant difference between group B and D compared with group A (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between group C and E (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the comparison of inflammatory factors TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 between group B and D (P > 0.05). There were significant differences between group B and D compared with other groups (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between group A, C and E (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密蒙花) granules have an inhibitory effect on the expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in castrated male rabbit lacrimal gland cells, and alleviate the inflammation of lacrimal gland tissue by inhibiting the expression of TGF-β1, NF-κB, IL-10 and IL-12 in lacrimal gland tissue, so as to treat dry eye. Keywords: Buddlejae Flos (Mi Meng Hua, 密;蒙;花;) granules, Castrated male rabbit, Lacrimal gland tissue, Inflammatory factors, Dry eye

Objective: To analyze the effects of Dan Huang Ming Mu Recipe (DHMMR) (a pharmaceutical preparation from herbs and having the function of replenishing vital essence, removing heat, promoting blood circulation and excreting pathogenic water) on diabetic retinopathy (DR) after retinal laser photocoagulation through regulating the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). Methods: Forty male Brown Norway (BN) rats were randomly divided into blank group (group A, 10 BN rats) and model group (30 BN rats). DR models were induced by 40 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) and the body weight and blood glucose of rats were monitored. After 12-week injection, fluorescein fundus angiography (FFA) and histopathological examination were detected to confirm the successful establishment of DR models. Subsequently, the right eyes of model group rats were conducted retinal laser photocoagulation with the left eyes having no retinal laser photocoagulation and rats of the model group were randomly divided into group B (the model control group), group C (the positive control group), and group D (the DHMMR group), with 10 rats in each group. Rats of the group A and the group B were given vehicle, and the group C were given calcium dobesilate suspension by gavage, and the group D were given DHMMR by gavage. After 4-week gavage, FFA was carried out to observe the fundus microvascular change. Then, the rats were sacrificed to do histopathological examinations and the serum levels of P-selectin, cAMP, cGMP, and the relative expression of the protein of VEGF and PEDF in retina were detected. Results: After 12-week STZ injection, the blood glucose of the model group were pronouncedly higher than the blank group (P < 0.01). Fundus micro-hemangioma changes were observed in the rats of the model group through FFA, and the rats of the blank group did not see any changes. The pictures of HE staining showed that the retinal structure of the model group was more disordered than the blank group. After 4-week gavage, treatments with DHMMR showed dramatic reduction of serum levels of P- selectin, cAMP and cGMP compared with the group B (P < 0.01). FFA and histopathological examinations of DHMMR-treated rats revealed significantly suppression of retinal edema, fundus microvascular destruction and retinal destruction distinguishing from the group B. And the relative expression of VEGF protein of the group D and the group A was markedly lower than that of the group B (P < 0.01). The relative expression of PEDF protein of the group D and the group A was dramatically higher than that of the group B to the contrary (P < 0.01). Conclusions: DHMMR demonstrates pronounced suppressive effects on the progression of DR after retinal laser photocoagulation, through down-regulating VEGF and up- regulating PEDF. Keywords: Diabetic retinopathy (DR), Dan Huang Ming Mu Recipe (DHMMR), Reinal laser photocoagulation, Brown Norway (BN) rats, Streptozotocin (STZ), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF)

Objective The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of kaempferol (KAE), an effective constituent of Buddleja officinalis, on human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) under a hyperosmolar environment. Methods HCECs were cultured in DMEM/F12 medium and allocated into four groups: normal, model, vehicle, and KAE. Ki67 staining was used to detect HCEC proliferation; TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling staining was used to detect HCEC apoptosis; quantified real-time PCR was used to investigate the mRNA relative expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and p38. and Western blot was used to reveal the protein expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and p38. Results Compared with those in the normal group, the proliferation ability of HCECs was significantly inhibited and the apoptosis rate of HCECs was notably increased in the model group; but KAE could effectively improve HCEC proliferation and reduce HCEC apoptosis. Compared with those in the normal group, the mRNA relative expressions and protein levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and p38 were significantly increased in the model group, which were effectively decreased after KAE intervention. Conclusion KAE could promote HCEC proliferation and reduce cell apoptosis, as well as inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors in a hypertonic-induced HCEC model via the p38MAPK pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To observe the protective effect of gynostemma glycosides on retinal ganglion cells in rats with chronically high intraocular pressure. Materials and Methods. A total of 60 rats were randomly divided into group A (the blank group, 10 rats) and chronic high IOP model group (50 rats). The IOP model group (IOP above 22 mmHg) was then randomly divided into an additional 5 groups (10 rats per group): group B (negative control group) treated with normal saline; group C treated with gynostemma glycosides 25 mg/(kg-d); group D treated with gynostemma glycosides 50 mg/(kg-d); group E treated with gynostemma glycosides 100 mg/(kg-d); and group F (positive control group) treated with VitB1 and VitB12. The eyes of each rat were monitored from day 1 to 14 (D1–D14). On day 14, rats were euthanized, after which retinal tissue and optic nerve were examined using real-time PCR, western blot, HE staining, LFB staining, and TUNEL assay. Results. Groups A, C, D, E, and F had significantly lower expression of CD11b, GFAP, Brn3α, and more TUNEL cells than in group B (all P < 0.05). Moreover, the relative expression of STAT3 mRNA and JAK2 (mRNA and protein) in groups A, C, D, E, and F was significantly lower than in group B (P < 0.05), while in group E, the expression was lower than in group D (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Gynostemma glycosides protect retinal ganglion cells in rats with chronically high intraocular pressure possibly associated with the STAT3/JAK2 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five new glycosides including mimenghuasu A and B (1-2), isolinarin (3), cyclocitralosides A and B (4–5), along with forty-seven known compounds were isolated from the flower buds of Buddleja officinalis. These structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis (UV, IR, 1 D, 2 D NMR, and MS spectra). The anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on the expression of TNF-α (LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells) and MTT experiment on LPS-induced HUVECs proliferation effects. Good suppressive effects on the expression of TNF-α were shown by 4 and 5 with IC50 values of 19.35 and 22.10 μM, respectively, compared to positive control indomethacin (IC50 16.40 μM). In addition to this, some isolated compounds exhibited excellent antioxidant activities including compounds 16, 18, 29, 39, and 47 (IC50 μM: 82.59, 72.94, 33.65, 46.67, and 20.81, respectively) with almost the same or stronger potency with reference to vitamin C as positive control (IC50 81.83 μM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To undertake an overview on the overall effects of Tripterygium glycosides (TG) combined with Leflunomide (LEF) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods. We searched electronic databases from database establishment time to December 1, 2019. The clinical trial data of TG combined with LEF (trial group) and control group in the treatment of RA were collected. The Cochrane system was used to evaluate the quality of the literature. RevMan 5.3 software was used to conduct a meta-analysis of the eligible studies. Results. A total of 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 834 patients with RA were included in this study. The meta-analysis results showed that morning stiffness (mean difference (MD) = −0.29, 95% confidential interval (CI) (−0.45, −0.12), P = 0.0005), tender joint count (MD = −1.51, 95% CI (−2.20, −0.83), P = 0.0001), swollen joint count (MD = -1.24, 95% CI (−1.59, −0.88), P = 0.0001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (MD = −7.26, 95% CI (−9.92, −4.61), P = 0.0001), C-reactive protein (MD = −4.04, 95% CI (−4.93, −3.14), P = 0.0001), and rheumatoid factor (MD = −50.88, 95% CI (−72.30, −29.45), P = 0.0001) in the trial groups were lower than those in the control groups. The total effective rate in the trial group was better than that in the control group (risk ratio (RR) = 1.20, 95% CI (1.13, 1.28), P = 0.00001). However, there was no significant difference of adverse events (RR = 0.83, 95% CI (0.61, 1.13), P = 0.23) while comparing the trial groups with the control groups. Conclusion. Our results were found to be superior but limited evidence on the effectiveness of TG combined with LEF in the treatment of RA is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effectively extracting power transformer partial discharge (PD) signals is of great significance for monitoring the power transformer insulation state. However, practical and effective extraction methods have been lacking. This paper proposes a novel method for the extraction PD signals feature by the analysis of their time-frequency matrix. First, empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is carried out for raw signals to obtain the complete Hilbert time-frequency spectrum. Second, the frequency band partition is carried out. And the component of raw signals on each frequency band is constructed after filtering by a Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) band-pass filter. Then the time-frequency matrix is constructed by different frequency band components, and singular value decomposition is carried out. Using its singular value energy spectrum, the PD signal is reconstructed, further realizing feature extraction. Finally, the analysis result from actual examples indicates that this method can effectively extract PD signal feature frequency spectrum, and meanwhile also can eliminate the strong background interference and retain the higher time-frequency resolution. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Acidic preconditioning (APC) has been demonstrated to protect against ischemia-reperfusion (IR)-induced lung injury, which could occur during lung transplantation or cardiopulmonary bypass. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying IR lung injury and APC protection are not completely understood. The key factors responsible for the protective effects of APC are not clear. In this study, bioinformatics was used to predict the potential key factor in IR lung injury and explore the important mediator of the APC protective effect in IR lung injury. Methods First, we screened GSE6730, which is related to both lung injury and IR in Gene Expression Omnibus, and STRING was used later to select the genes in GSE6730 needed in the future. Animal models were established and classified to validate the effect of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) on lung injury after IR by adding a selective inhibitor (4-phenoxyphenylsulfonyl) methylthiirane, MMP-9 inhibitor. Next, for better understanding of APC inhibition of the expression of MMP-9 in lung injury, assessment of lung tissues, Western blot analysis, and RNA extraction and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction were conducted. Results MMP-9 was identified to be overexpressed after IR according to the analysis on GSE67370. MMP-9 was an unknown gene in relation to acute lung injury and found to be associated with interleukin (IL)-1B, IL-6, and IL-8. The expressions of these inflammatory factors, including MMP-9, were all elevated in IR. Furthermore, lung injury was ameliorated, and the level of MMP-9 was lower when an MMP-9 inhibitor, (4-phenoxyphenylsulfonyl) methylthiirane, was added. Compared with group IR, APC reversed the ischemia-induced lung injury, and the level of MMP-9 was lower, and the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 were decreased. Conclusions Our findings reveal a novel mechanism indicating that IR induces higher expression of MMP-9 in lung injury by increasing the expression of inflammation-related factors. APC might protect against IR lung injury by inhibiting the expression of MMP-9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• miR-223 regulated cell proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation in RGCs. • miR-223 directly binds the 3′-UTR of HSP70 mRNA in RGCs. • miR-223 regulate the effect of si-HSP-70 on RGCs. • antagomiR-223 improve glaucoma of rabbit induced by carbomer. Glaucoma is an eye disease characterized by the loss of peripheral vision, high pressure in the eye, optic nerve damage, and the loss of peripheral vision due to loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). A number of miRNA have been detected in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. The paper was to focus on the miR-223 in RGCs apoptosis and inflammation, and investigated the possible mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. After miR-223 inhibitor and mimics transfected into RGCs, the expression of miR-223 was detected by QRT-PCR, cell proliferation were performed by CCK-8 and EdU assays, cell apoptosis were measured by flow cytometer and TUNEL assays, apoptosis and inflammation -related proteins were detected by western blot, and whether miR-223 target to HSP-70 was detected by Luciferease reporter assay. Moreover, the effects si-HSP-70 on RGCs or RGCs transfected with miR-223 inhibitor were detected. In vivo study. New Zealand White rabbits (20 females) were used to detect the effect of miR-223 on the rabbit glaucoma model induced by injection of carbomer. CCK-8 and EdU assays demonstrated that miR-223 mimics decreased RGCs proliferation. FITC-Annexin V/PI Apoptosis and TUNEL assays showed that miR-223 mimics induced RGCs apoptosis. Western blot revealed that miR-223 mimics enhanced the expression of relative apoptosis and inflammation factors. Further, we demonstrated that miR-223 could inhibit cell proliferation, induce cell apoptosis as well as inflammation by targeting HSP-70 in RGCs. Moreover, the results were confirmed in rabbit glaucoma model. In summary, miR-223 plays a vital role in RGCs by regulating HSP-70 expression, and the new therapeutic strategy might potentially contribute to benefit glaucoma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To develop a classifier for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome differentiation of diabetic retinopathy (DR), using optimized machine learning algorithms, which can provide the basis for TCM objective and intelligent syndrome differentiation., Methods: Collated data on real-world DR cases were collected. A variety of machine learning methods were used to construct TCM syndrome classification model, and the best performance was selected as the basic model. Genetic Algorithm (GA) was used for feature selection to obtain the optimal feature combination. Harris Hawk Optimization (HHO) was used for parameter optimization, and a classification model based on feature selection and parameter optimization was constructed. The performance of the model was compared with other optimization algorithms. The models were evaluated with accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score as indicators., Results: Data on 970 cases that met screening requirements were collected. Support Vector Machine (SVM) was the best basic classification model. The accuracy rate of the model was 82.05%, the precision rate was 82.34%, the recall rate was 81.81%, and the F1 value was 81.76%. After GA screening, the optimal feature combination contained 37 feature values, which was consistent with TCM clinical practice. The model based on optimal combination and SVM (GA&#95;SVM) had an accuracy improvement of 1.92% compared to the basic classifier. SVM model based on HHO and GA optimization (HHO&#95;GA&#95;SVM) had the best performance and convergence speed compared with other optimization algorithms. Compared with the basic classification model, the accuracy was improved by 3.51%., Conclusion: HHO and GA optimization can improve the model performance of SVM in TCM syndrome differentiation of DR. It provides a new method and research idea for TCM intelligent assisted syndrome differentiation., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: Xiao L, None; Wang CW, None; Deng Y, None; Yang YJ, None; Lu J, None; Yan JF, None; Peng QH, None., (International Journal of Ophthalmology Press.)

Background: Dry eye syndrome is an ocular surface disease with high incidence. Acupuncture combined with artificial tears is effective for treating dry eye syndrome. This study aimed to evaluate the evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture combined with artificial tears in dry eye syndrome by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis., Methods: A systematic online search was performed from the date of database establishment to July 1, 2023. The study groups that addressed acupuncture combined with artificial tears for patients with dry eye syndrome (DES) and the control groups that addressed artificial tears were analyzed. The main outcomes were tear breakup time (BUT) and Schirmer I test (SIT), assessed as previously described., Results: Sixteen randomized or controlled trials met the selection criteria, and 1383 patients with DES were included in this study. The analysis results showed that BUT [Standard mean difference (SMD) = 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.14, 1.37), P < .0001], SIT [SMD = 1.55, 95% CI (1.08, 2.02), P < .0001], and corneal fluorescein staining [SMD = -2.08, 95% CI (-2.96, -1.20), P < .00001] significantly improved in the trial groups compared with the control groups. The acupuncture treatment was more effective in reducing the levels of IL-6 (P < .0001) and TNF-α (P < .00001). The overall efficacy rate was better in the trial group than in the control group [odds ratio = 4.09, 95% CI (3.04, 5.51), P < .00001]. However, no significant difference was observed in the ocular surface disease index (P = .15) between the trial and control groups., Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that acupuncture combined with artificial tears could be considered safe, effective to patients with DES., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Aim: To analyze the intellectual structure and recent research trends in diabetic retinopathy (DR) and unearth potential knowledge., Methods: English DR publication included in this study was exported from the Web of Science Core Collection, and Chinese DR publication was exported from China National Knowledge Infrastructure from the establishment time of the database to 2019. CiteSpace and Microsoft Excel were used to visually analyze DR research, including analysis of the number of publications, highly cited publication analysis, spatial distribution analysis, and keyword co-occurrence analysis., Results: A total of 23 795 English studies and 11 577 Chinese studies, including 2089 studies related to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), were obtained. The data suggested the following: 1) The number of English and Chinese DR publications increased over time, and the growth rate of English publications was relatively fast. 2) The distribution of international scholars and institutions was close, while the distribution was scattered in China. Shanghai Jiao Tong University has the largest number of publications. Tien-Yin Wong was the core author with the largest number of publications. England and the United States are the core of international DR research cooperation. 3) Optical coherence tomography and risk factors are recent international research hot spots and trends. The difference is that TCM is a recent research trend under DR in China., Conclusion: DR has drawn an increasing amount of attention worldwide. The focus of research in this field has shifted from tertiary type DR treatment to secondary prevention strategies which focus on the screening and monitoring of disease progression. The advantages of TCM in the prevention of DR have attracted attention, and it is worth incorporating this with Western medicine to address this challenge., (International Journal of Ophthalmology Press.)

Background: 'Metabolic memory' of early hyperglycaemic environment has been frequently suggested in the progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are crucial targets for DR initiation following hyperglycaemia. Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) has been long used as a traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetes. In the present study, the preventive effects and mechanisms of APS on metabolic memory-induced RPE cell death were investigated., Methods: The expressions of miR-204 and SIRT1 were determined by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Dual luciferase assay was applied to detect the potential targeting effects of miR-204 on SIRT1. SIRT1, ER stress and apoptosis related proteins were monitored using Western blotting. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL assay and Annexin V/PI staining followed by flow cytometry analysis. MiR-204 mimics and shSIRT1 were applied for miR-204 overexpression and SIRT1 knockdown, respectively., Results: High glucose exposure induced metabolic memory, which was accompanied with sustained dysregulation of miR-204/SIRT1 axis, high level of ER stress and activation of apoptotic pathway even after replacement with normal glucose. Pre-treatment with APS concentration-dependently reversed miR-204 expression, leading to disinhibition of SIRT1 and alleviation of ER stress-induced apoptosis indicated by decreased levels of p-PERK, p-IRE-1, cleaved-ATF6, Bax, cleaved caspase-12, -9, -3, and increased levels of Bcl-2 and unleaved PARP. The effects of APS on RPE cells were reversed by either miR-204 overexpression or SIRT1 knockdown., Conclusions: We concluded that APS inhibited ER stress and subsequent apoptosis via regulating miR-204/SIRT1 axis in metabolic memory model of RPE cells., (© 2020 The Author(s).)

The study investigated the effects of Qingguang'an II (a Chinese medicinal preparation) on expressions of OX42 protein and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mRNA of retinal microglia cells of rats with chronic high intraocular pressure (IOP). SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups, that were: A: blank group; B: model group; C: Qingguang'an II low dose group; D: Qingguang'an II medium dose group; E: Qingguang'an II high dose group; F: Yimaikang disket (a Chinese medicinal preparation) group. Experimental rats in B, C, D, E, F groups were established the model of chronic high IOP by cauterizing of superficial scleral vein. Tissues of eyes were obtained after intragastric administration for 2 and 4wk. At the time-point of 2wk, OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in group B were statistically expressed in higher level comparing with other groups ( P <0.05). Moreover, at the time-point of 4wk, OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in groups C, D and E were statistically expressed in lower level comparing with group F ( P <0.05). Besides, OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in groups C and D were statistically expressed in higher level comparing with group E ( P <0.05). OX42 protein and IL-1β mRNA in groups C and D were expressed in similar level ( P >0.05). The study indicated that, in the protection of optic nerve of rats with chronic high IOP, the high dose of Qingguang'an II at the time-point of 4wk was the better choice.

Glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness, is an irreversible optic neuropathy. The mechanism of optic nerve injury caused by glaucoma is undefined at present. There is no effective treatment method for the injury. Stem cells have the capacity of self-renewal and differentiation. These two features have made them become the research focus on improving the injury at present. This paper reviews the application progress on different types of stem cells therapy for optic nerve injury caused by glaucoma.

Objective: To explore the possible mechanism of eye drops of Buddleja officinalis extract in treating dry eye of castrated rats by analyzing the expressions of Bax and Bcl-2 proteins., Methods: Forty-five Wistar male rats were randomly divided into sham-operated group, untreated group and eye drops of Buddleja officinalis Maxim. extract (treatment) group. The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy in the untreated group and treatment group. Rats in the treatment group were treated with eye drops of Buddleja officinalis Maxim. extract, one drop once, three times daily. Eyes of rats in the sham-operated group and untreated group were instilled with normal saline. After one-, two-, or three-month treatment, five rats in each group were scarified respectively. Then samples were taken to detect related indices. Expressions of Bax and Bcl-2 of lacrimal gland were checked by immunohistochemical method and quantity of apoptotic cells was counted., Results: After one-, two- or three-month treatment, the quantities of expressions of Bax in acinar epithelial cells and glandular tube cells were significantly lower, and those of Bcl-2 were significantly higher in the treatment group than in the untreated group, and the quantities of apoptotic cells of the treatment group were significantly lower than those of the untreated group (P<0.01)., Conclusion: The main components of extract of Buddleja officinalis Maxim. are flavonoids, which can significantly inhibit cell apoptosis in lacrimal gland.

Aim: To evaluate the effects of the extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops in basic tears secretory volume, tear film stability, expression of androgen receptors (AR) in castrated rats with dry eye, and to investigate the therapeutic effects of the extract of Buddleja officinalis on dry eye caused by gonadal hormones level imbalance., Methods: Forty-five Wistar masculinity rats were divided at random into nine groups, including normal groups (A1, A2 and A3); model groups (B1, B2 and B3); therapy groups with extract of Buddleja officinalis eye drops (C1, C2 and C3). The "1" stood for being fed for 1 month, and "2" for 2 months, and "3" for 3 months. The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy on groups B and C. Group C was treated with Buddleja officinalis extract eye drops for one month. All rats were checked with Schirmer I test (SIT) and tear film break-up time (BUT). Expression of AR was analyzed by flow cytometer (FCM)., Results: The SIT value of group C was significantly higher than that of group B (P<0.01) and the BUT value of group C was significantly longer than that of group B (P<0.01), which indicated the eye drop could significantly keep basic tears secretory volume and tear film stability. And the expression of AR of group C was much higher than that of group B, which showed that available composition of the eye drops maybe display androgen-like activity., Conclusion: The main components of the extract of Buddleja officinalis is the flavonoids that can significantly inhibit happening of dry eye of rat after androgen level lowered. Its mechanism is like androgen's and it can display androgen-like activity to keep basic tears secretory volume and tear film stability.

Aim: To explore the effect of Buddleia flavonoids drug-containing plasma and androgen receptor (AR) blocker on the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein., Methods: In vitro lacrimal gland epithelial cells were cultivated with H(2)O(2) to establish the dry eye apoptosis state. Blank plasma group, Buddleia officinalis plasma total flavonoids interfere with drug-containing group, and the intervention group of testosterone propionate were set. The expressions of STAT1 phosphoprotein of each group were observed by Western blot. AR blocker flutamide was used to explore the intended androgen effect of Buddleia flavonoids., Results: After the intervention of drug-containing plasma, the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein in Buddleja officinalis drug-containing plasma intervention group (0.353±0.494) and testosterone propionate intervention group (0.502±0.036) were enhanced and the differences between the two groups were significant (P<0.01). After using AR blocker, the expression of STAT1 phosphoprotein in each group (0.268±0.061, 0.283±0.106, 0.213±0.071) had no difference., Conclusion: Buddleja officinalis drug-containing plasma total flavonoids can promote the expression of STAT1 phosphorylation.

Aim: To assess the effects of extract of Buddleja officinalis on tear secretion volume, tear film stability, expressions of TGF-β1, IL-1β, TNF-α in lacrimal gland of castrated rabbits with dry eye., Methods: A total of 30 victory rabbits were divided averagely into normal group(A), model group(B), therapy group with low dose extract of Buddleja officinalis (C), therapy group with high dose extract of Buddleja officinalis (D) and therapy group with genistein (E). The dry eye model was established with orchiectomy on Group B, C, D, E. Group C, D, E were administered intragastrically with corresponding dose extract of Buddleja officinalis or genistein for 30 days. All rabbits were detected with SIT. TGF-β1, IL-1β, TNF-α were detected with immunohistochemistry and the ultrastructure of lacrimal gland was observed under transmission electron microscope., Results: The SIT value of group C, D, E were respectively 13.167±4.957, 14.667±5.279, 8.667±0.516, obviously higher than that of group B 5.667±2.338 (P<0.01). The positive expression of IL-1β in acinar cell and glandular tube cell of group C, D were 0.470±0.048, 0.510±0.088, obviously lower than that of group B 0.770±0.118 (P<0.01). The positive expression of TNF-α of group C, D were 0.498±0.156, 0.435±0.069, obviously lower than that of group B 0.769±0.095 too (P<0.01). The positive expression of TGF-β1 of group C, D were 0.406±0.171, 0.497±0.147, obviously higher than that of group B 0.222±0.113(P<0.01). Any result of group C, D was positive compared with that of group E (P <0.05). Ultrastructure of the lacrimal gland of group C, D, E was well preserved, especially in D group it was remarkable., Conclusion: The extract of Buddleja officinalis can adjust lacrimal gland partial inflammation of dry eye.