Deep brain implantable microelectrode arrays for detection and functional localization of the subthalamic nucleus in rats with Parkinson’s disease

The subthalamic nucleus(STN)is considered the best target for deep brain stimulation treatments of Parkinson’s disease(PD).It is difficult to localize the STN due to its small size and deep location.Multichannel microelectrode arrays(MEAs)can rapidly and precisely locate the STN,which is important for precise stimulation.In this paper,16-channel MEAs modified with multiwalled carbon nanotube/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate)(MWCNT/PEDOT:PSS)nanocomposites were designed and fabricated,and the accurate and rapid identification of the STN in PD rats was performed using detection sites distributed at different brain depths.These results showed that nuclei in 6-hydroxydopamine hydrobromide(6-OHDA)-lesioned brains discharged more intensely than those in unlesioned brains.In addition,the MEA simultaneously acquired neural signals from both the STN and the upper or lower boundary nuclei of the STN.Moreover,higher values of spike firing rate,spike amplitude,local field potential(LFP)power,and beta oscillations were detected in the STN of the 6-OHDA-lesioned brain,and may therefore be biomarkers of STN localization.Compared with the STNs of unlesioned brains,the power spectral density of spikes and LFPs synchronously decreased in the delta band and increased in the beta band of 6-OHDA-lesioned brains.This may be a cause of sleep and motor disorders associated with PD.Overall,this work describes a new cellular-level localization and detection method and provides a tool for future studies of deep brain nuclei.

Nattokinase as a functional food ingredient:therapeutic applications and mechanisms in age-related diseases

Consumption of natto,a traditional eastern Asian food made of fermented soybeans by Bacillus subtilis,has long been linked to healthy aging and longer human lifespan.As the key thrombolytic ingredient of natto,the serine protease nattokinase(NK)has been developed into a widely-used dietary supplement.NK has shown excellent anti-thrombus,thrombolytic,and anti-inflammation activities that potentially delay aging and provide therapeutic effects on aging-related diseases.In this review,we critically overview the experimental and clinical evidence in the past 20 years that support the beneficial function of NK in the prevention and treatment of aging-related diseases,including cardiovascular diseases,Alzheimer’s disease,other abnormalities and cancer.We focus on the underlying molecular mechanisms and recent advances in application methods that are aimed at further development of NK for healthier aging of modern society.The challenges and unsolved issues in this area are also discussed.

Analysis of Cardiac Functional Status and Factors Influencing Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Combined Heart Disease

Objective:To investigate the cardiac function of pregnant women with complicated heart disease during pregnancy and the factors influencing the adverse pregnancy outcome.Methods:A total of 162 cases of pregnant women with complicated heart disease admitted to the Beijing Anzhen Hospital from October 2021 to December 2023 were selected to compare the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with complicated heart disease at different levels of cardiac function and to analyze the single and multi factors leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with complicated heart disease.Results:Among 162 pregnant women with combined heart disease in pregnancy,the highest percentage of heart disease type was congenital heart disease(80/49.38%),and the lowest percentage was other(9/5.56%);the overall incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with combined heart disease in pregnancy with cardiac function grades of 3–4 cardiac function(30/68.18%)was higher than that in pregnant women with combined heart disease in cardiac function grades of 1–2(40/33.90%)(P=0.000);age,marital status,hypertension,and past history of all pregnant women were not statistically significant(P>0.05);gestational age,type of heart disease,and cardiac function grading were statistically significant(P<0.05),and these factors were all independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy resolution in pregnant women with combined heart disease(P<0.05).Conclusion:The overall incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes was higher in pregnant women with heart disease than in those with heart disease grades 1–2,and the number of pregnancies,the type of heart disease,and heart function grades were all independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with heart disease.

Prevalence and risk factors for impaired renal function among Asian patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Background:Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)is associated with impaired renal function,and both diseases often occur alongside other metabolic disorders.However,the prevalence and risk factors for impaired renal function in patients with NAFLD remain unclear.The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence and risk factors for renal impairment in NAFLD patients.Methods:All adults aged 18-70 years with ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD and transient elastography examination from eight Asian centers were enrolled in this prospective study.Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis were assessed by FibroScan-aspartate aminotransferase(FAST),Agile 3+and Agile 4 scores.Impaired renal function and chronic kidney disease(CKD)were defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate(eGFR)with value of<90 mL/min/1.73 m^(2) and<60 mL/min/1.73 m^(2),respectively,as estimated by the CKD-Epidemiology Collaboration(CKD-EPI)equation.Results:Among 529 included NAFLD patients,the prevalence rates of impaired renal function and CKD were 37.4%and 4.9%,respectively.In multivariate analysis,a moderate-high risk of advanced liver fibrosis and cirrhosis according to Agile 3+and Agile 4 scores were independent risk factors for CKD(P<0.05).Furthermore,increased fasting plasma glucose(FPG)and blood pressure were significantly associated with impaired renal function after controlling for the other components of metabolic syndrome(P<0.05).Compared with patients with normoglycemia,those with prediabetes[FPG≥5.6 mmol/L or hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c)≥5.7%]were more likely to have impaired renal function(P<0.05).Conclusions:Agile 3+and Agile 4 are reliable for identifying NAFLD patients with high risk of CKD.Early glycemic control in the prediabetic stage might have a potential renoprotective role in these patients.

Interplay between metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and renal function: An intriguing pediatric perspective

Over recent years,the nomenclature of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has undergone significant changes.Indeed,in 2020,an expert consensus panel proposed the term“Metabolic(dysfunction)associated fatty liver disease”(MAFLD)to underscore the close association of fatty liver with metabolic abnormalities,thereby highlighting the cardiometabolic risks(such as metabolic syndrome,type 2 diabetes,insulin resistance,and cardiovascular disease)faced by these patients since childhood.More recently,this term has been further replaced with metabolic associated steatotic liver disease.It is worth noting that emerging evidence not only supports a close and independent association of MAFLD with chronic kidney disease in adults but also indicates its interplay with metabolic impairments.However,comparable pediatric data remain limited.Given the progressive and chronic nature of both diseases and their prognostic cardiometabolic implications,this editorial aims to provide a pediatric perspective on the intriguing relationship between MAFLD and renal function in childhood.

Effectiveness of Atorvastatin Combined with Trimetazidine in the Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease in the Elderly and Their Effect on Cardiac Function

Objective:To analyze the effect of atorvastatin combined with trimetazidine in the treatment of elderly coronary artery disease and the effect on patients’cardiac function.Methods:60 cases of elderly coronary artery disease patients were divided into 2 groups by randomization method,and all of them received conventional symptomatic treatment,while atorvastatin was added to the control group and trimetazidine was combined with atorvastatin in the observation group,and the clinical indexes were compared.Results:After treatment,the angina attack,cardiac function indexes,and inflammatory factor levels of the observation group were better than those of the control group(P<0.05),and the differences in adverse reactions between the two groups were not significant(P>0.05).Conclusion:Combined treatment of coronary heart disease in the elderly with atorvastatin and trimetazidine can positively reduce angina symptoms,improve cardiac function,and reduce inflammatory reactions,and the effect is definite.

Brain Functional Networks with Dynamic Hypergraph Manifold Regularization for Classification of End-Stage Renal Disease Associated with Mild Cognitive Impairment

The structure and function of brain networks have been altered in patients with end-stage renal disease(ESRD).Manifold regularization(MR)only considers the pairing relationship between two brain regions and cannot represent functional interactions or higher-order relationships between multiple brain regions.To solve this issue,we developed a method to construct a dynamic brain functional network(DBFN)based on dynamic hypergraph MR(DHMR)and applied it to the classification of ESRD associated with mild cognitive impairment(ESRDaMCI).The construction of DBFN with Pearson’s correlation(PC)was transformed into an optimization model.Node convolution and hyperedge convolution superposition were adopted to dynamically modify the hypergraph structure,and then got the dynamic hypergraph to form the manifold regular terms of the dynamic hypergraph.The DHMR and L_(1) norm regularization were introduced into the PC-based optimization model to obtain the final DHMR-based DBFN(DDBFN).Experiment results demonstrated the validity of the DDBFN method by comparing the classification results with several related brain functional network construction methods.Our work not only improves better classification performance but also reveals the discriminative regions of ESRDaMCI,providing a reference for clinical research and auxiliary diagnosis of concomitant cognitive impairments.

Research progress of TCM regulation of Cajal interstitial cells in the treatment of functional Gastrointestinal diseases

Interstitial cells of Cajal are a different class of cells with unique ultrastructure,molecular phenotype and function,and their main function is to generate slow waves,thereby triggering gastrointestinal pacing and regulating gastrointestinal motility.They play an extremely important physiological role in coordinating the normal activities of the digestive system,and their number,shape and function abnormalities often have a certain impact on gastrointestinal motility.Functional gastrointestinal disease is a type of digestive system disease closely related to gastrointestinal motility.Relevant studies have shown that the pathogenesis of functional gastrointestinal disease is closely related to the abnormal number,morphology and function of Cajal interstitial cells.Regulating the shape and number of interstitial cells of Cajal,maintaining the normal operation of gastrointestinal electrophysiology,inhibiting excessive autophagy and activating related signaling pathways,etc.,can improve gastrointestinal motility,thereby treating functional gastrointestinal diseases.This article will discuss the treatment of functional gastrointestinal diseases from traditional Chinese medicine compound,traditional Chinese medicine monomer,and external treatment of traditional Chinese medicine by regulating Cajal interstitial cells.

Efficacy of exercise rehabilitation for managing patients with Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease(AD) is a progressive and degenerative neurological disease characterized by the deterioration of cognitive functions. While a definitive cure and optimal medication to impede disease progression are currently unavailable, a plethora of studies have highlighted the potential advantages of exercise rehabilitation for managing this condition. Those studies show that exercise rehabilitation can enhance cognitive function and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by AD. Therefore, exercise rehabilitation has been regarded as one of the most important strategies for managing patients with AD. Herein, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the currently available findings on exercise rehabilitation in patients with AD, with a focus on the exercise types which have shown efficacy when implemented alone or combined with other treatment methods, as well as the potential mechanisms underlying these positive effects. Specifically, we explain how exercise may improve the brain microenvironment and neuronal plasticity. In conclusion, exercise is a cost-effective intervention to enhance cognitive performance and improve quality of life in patients with mild to moderate cognitive dysfunction. Therefore, it can potentially become both a physical activity and a tailored intervention. This review may aid the development of more effective and individualized treatment strategies to address the challenges imposed by this debilitating disease, especially in low-and middle-income countries.

Pathological and therapeutic effects of extracellular vesicles in neurological and neurodegenerative diseases

Extracellular vesicles are released by all cell types and contain proteins,microRNAs,mRNAs,and other bioactive molecules.Extracellular vesicles play an important role in intercellular communication and in the modulation of the immune system and neuroinflammation.The cargo of extra cellular vesicles(e.g.,proteins and microRNAs)is altered in pathological situations.Extracellular vesicles contribute to the pathogenesis of many pathologies associated with sustained inflammation and neuroinflammation,including cance r,diabetes,hype rammonemia and hepatic encephalopathy,and other neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.Extracellular vesicles may cross the blood-brain barrier and transfer pathological signals from the periphery to the brain.This contributes to inducing neuroinflammation and cognitive and motor impairment in hyperammonemia and hepatic encephalopathy and in neurodegenerative diseases.The mechanisms involved are beginning to be unde rstood.For example,increased tumor necrosis factor a in extracellular vesicles from plasma of hype rammonemic rats induces neuroinflammation and motor impairment when injected into normal rats.Identifying the mechanisms by which extracellular vesicles contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases will help to develop new treatments and diagnostic tools for their easy and early detection.In contrast,extra cellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells have therapeutic utility in many of the above pathologies,by reducing inflammation and neuroinflammation and improving cognitive and motor function.These extra cellular vesicles recapitulate the beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells and have advantages as therapeutic tools:they are less immunoge nic,may not diffe rentiate to malignant cells,cross the blood-brain barrier,and may reach more easily target organs.Extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells have beneficial effects in models of ischemic brain injury,Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases,hyperammonemia,and hepatic encephalopathy.Extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells modulate the immune system,promoting the shift from a pro-inflammato ry to an anti-inflammatory state.For example,extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells modulate the Th17/Treg balance,promoting the anti-inflammatory Treg.Extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells may also act directly in the brain to modulate microglia activation,promoting a shift from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory state.This reduces neuroinflammation and improves cognitive and motor function.Two main components of extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells which contribute to these beneficial effects are transforming growth factor-βand miR-124.Identifying the mechanisms by which extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells induce the beneficial effects and the main molecules(e.g.,proteins and mRNAs)involved may help to improve their therapeutic utility.The aims of this review are to summarize the knowledge of the pathological effects of extracellular vesicles in different pathologies,the therapeutic potential of extra cellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells to recover cognitive and motor function and the molecular mechanisms for these beneficial effects on neurological function.

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy in non-invasive neuromodulation

Non-invasive cerebral neuromodulation technologies are essential for the reorganization of cerebral neural networks,which have been widely applied in the field of central neurological diseases,such as stroke,Parkinson’s disease,and mental disorders.Although significant advances have been made in neuromodulation technologies,the identification of optimal neurostimulation paramete rs including the co rtical target,duration,and inhibition or excitation pattern is still limited due to the lack of guidance for neural circuits.Moreove r,the neural mechanism unde rlying neuromodulation for improved behavioral performance remains poorly understood.Recently,advancements in neuroimaging have provided insight into neuromodulation techniques.Functional near-infrared spectroscopy,as a novel non-invasive optical brain imaging method,can detect brain activity by measuring cerebral hemodynamics with the advantages of portability,high motion tole rance,and anti-electromagnetic interference.Coupling functional near-infra red spectroscopy with neuromodulation technologies offe rs an opportunity to monitor the cortical response,provide realtime feedbac k,and establish a closed-loop strategy integrating evaluation,feedbac k,and intervention for neurostimulation,which provides a theoretical basis for development of individualized precise neuro rehabilitation.We aimed to summarize the advantages of functional near-infra red spectroscopy and provide an ove rview of the current research on functional near-infrared spectroscopy in transcranial magnetic stimulation,transcranial electrical stimulation,neurofeedback,and braincomputer interfaces.Furthermore,the future perspectives and directions for the application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy in neuromodulation are summarized.In conclusion,functional near-infrared spectroscopy combined with neuromodulation may promote the optimization of central pellral reorganization to achieve better functional recovery form central nervous system diseases.

Resveratrol combats chronic diseases through enhancing mitochondrial quality

Resveratrol(RSV),as a functional food component extracted from natural plants,has been widely studied and recognized in preventing and treating various diseases,with major mechanisms including executing anti-inflammation and anti-oxidation functions,and improving mitochondrial quality.Chronic diseases as non-communicable diseases are mainly caused by multiple factors,such as physiological decline and dysfunction in the body,and have become a significant challenge on public health worldwide.It is worth noting that chronic diseases such as Alzheimer's disease(AD),Parkinson's disease(PD),muscle atrophy,cardiovascular disease,obesity,and cancer are accompanied by abnormal mitochondrial function.Therefore,targeted regulation of mitochondria may be a meaningful way to prevent and treat chronic diseases.Increasing evidence has confirmed that RSV is actively involved in regulating mitochondria,and it has become an essential consideration to prevent and treat chronic diseases through targeting mitochondria and improving corresponding functions.In this article,current studies on RSV to optimize mitochondrial quality for preventing and alleviating chronic disease are systematically summarized,which can provide a theoretical reference for the development of functional foods or drugs to combat chronic diseases.

Rotating magnetic field inhibits Aβ protein aggregation and alleviates cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease mice

Amyloid beta(Aβ)monomers aggregate to form fibrils and amyloid plaques,which are critical mechanisms in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease(AD).Given the important role of Aβ1-42 aggregation in plaque formation,leading to brain lesions and cognitive impairment,numerous studies have aimed to reduce Aβaggregation and slow AD progression.The diphenylalanine(FF)sequence is critical for amyloid aggregation,and magnetic fields can affect peptide alignment due to the diamagnetic anisotropy of aromatic rings.In this study,we examined the effects of a moderate-intensity rotating magnetic field(RMF)on Aβaggregation and AD pathogenesis.Results indicated that the RMF directly inhibited Aβamyloid fibril formation and reduced Aβ-induced cytotoxicity in neural cells in vitro.Using the AD mouse model APP/PS1,RMF restored motor abilities to healthy control levels and significantly alleviated cognitive impairments,including exploration and spatial and non-spatial memory abilities.Tissue examinations demonstrated that RMF reduced amyloid plaque accumulation,attenuated microglial activation,and reduced oxidative stress in the APP/PS1 mouse brain.These findings suggest that RMF holds considerable potential as a non-invasive,high-penetration physical approach for AD treatment.

Neuroprotective effect of liraglutide and memantine in a rat model of Alzheimer’s disease

Objective:To assess the effect of memantine combined with liraglutide on aluminum chloride(AlCl_(3))and D-galactose(D-GAL)-induced neurotoxicity in rats.Methods:Male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups of 5 animals each:the positive control,the negative control,the memantine-treated group,the liraglutide-treated group,and the combination group treated with memantine and liraglutide.AlCl_(3)and D-GAL were used to induce neurotoxicity.Behavioral tests,brain beta-amyloid protein,and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated.Results:The Morris water maze test indicated an enhanced memory in the combination group.Moreover,the combination treatment of liraglutide and memantine resulted in a remarkable reduction in the beta-amyloid protein level in the brain tissue.Neuronal inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers were significantly reduced,and the levels of antioxidant parameters were enhanced.Conclusions:The combination of liraglutide and memantine exerts neuroprotective effects and enhances memory and cognitive functions in rats with Alzheimer’s disease.

Feasibility Study of Neurofeedback Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of neurofeedback therapy based on brain-computer interface (BCI) games in enhancing cognitive functions and reducing disruptive behaviors in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: Forty-six AD patients aged 49 - 76 years were recruited for the study. Neurofeedback regulation was conducted using a BCI game designed to modulate EEG rhythms. Cognitive function was assessed using MMSE, MoCA, and ADAS-cog scales before and after a 10-day training period. EEG measurements were taken to evaluate changes in brain activity complexity. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS25.0 software to compare pre- and post-training scores. Results: Post-intervention results showed significant improvement in the cognitive function of AD patients. The total scores of MMSE, MoCA, and ADAS-cog scales increased significantly (P < 0.01). Notable improvements were observed in memory, language, and attention domains. EEG complexity in the left frontal area also showed a significant increase (P < 0.05). Additionally, the disruptive behaviors of patients were significantly reduced, improving their overall quality of life. Conclusions: Neurofeedback therapy based on BCI games is a promising intervention for enhancing cognitive functions and reducing disruptive behaviors in AD patients. This innovative approach demonstrates significant potential for clinical application, providing a non-invasive method to improve patient outcomes. Further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-ups are recommended to validate these findings and explore the specific effects of NFB training on different cognitive impairment levels.

T lymphocyte proportion in Alzheimer’s disease prognosis

Bai et al investigate the predictive value of T lymphocyte proportion in Alzheimer's disease(AD)prognosis.Through a retrospective study involving 62 AD patients,they found that a decrease in T lymphocyte proportion correlated with a poorer prognosis,as indicated by higher modified Rankin scale scores.While the study highlights the potential of T lymphocyte proportion as a prognostic marker,it suggests the need for larger,multicenter studies to enhance generalizability and validity.Additionally,future research could use cognitive exams when evaluating prognosis and delve into immune mechanisms underlying AD progression.Despite limitations inherent in retrospective designs,Bai et al's work contributes to understanding the immune system's role in AD prognosis,paving the way for further exploration in this under-researched area.

Computational and bioinformatics tools for understanding disease mechanisms

Computational methods have significantly transformed biomedical research,offering a comprehensive exploration of disease mechanisms and molecular protein functions.This article reviews a spectrum of computational tools and network analysis databases that play a crucial role in identifying potential interactions and signaling networks contributing to the onset of disease states.The utilization of protein/gene interaction and genetic variation databases,coupled with pathway analysis can facilitate the identification of potential drug targets.By bridging the gap between molecular-level information and disease understanding,this review contributes insights into the impactful utilization of computational methods,paving the way for targeted interventions and therapeutic advancements in biomedical research.

Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Neuromuscular Disease Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Review and Algorithmic Approach

Neuromuscular diseases present profound challenges to individuals and healthcare systems worldwide, profoundly impacting motor functions. This research provides a comprehensive exploration of how artificial intelligence (AI) technology is revolutionizing rehabilitation for individuals with neuromuscular disorders. Through an extensive review, this paper elucidates a wide array of AI-driven interventions spanning robotic-assisted therapy, virtual reality rehabilitation, and intricately tailored machine learning algorithms. The aim is to delve into the nuanced applications of AI, unlocking its transformative potential in optimizing personalized treatment plans for those grappling with the complexities of neuromuscular diseases. By examining the multifaceted intersection of AI and rehabilitation, this paper not only contributes to our understanding of cutting-edge advancements but also envisions a future where technological innovations play a pivotal role in alleviating the challenges posed by neuromuscular diseases. From employing neural-fuzzy adaptive controllers for precise trajectory tracking amidst uncertainties to utilizing machine learning algorithms for recognizing patient motor intentions and adapting training accordingly, this research encompasses a holistic approach towards harnessing AI for enhanced rehabilitation outcomes. By embracing the synergy between AI and rehabilitation, we pave the way for a future where individuals with neuromuscular disorders can access tailored, effective, and technologically-driven interventions to improve their quality of life and functional independence.

Multisensory mechanisms of gait and balance in Parkinson’s disease:an integrative review

Understanding the neural underpinning of human gait and balance is one of the most pertinent challenges for 21st-century translational neuroscience due to the profound impact that falls and mobility disturbances have on our aging population.Posture and gait control does not happen automatically,as previously believed,but rather requires continuous involvement of central nervous mechanisms.To effectively exert control over the body,the brain must integrate multiple streams of sensory information,including visual,vestibular,and somatosensory signals.The mechanisms which underpin the integration of these multisensory signals are the principal topic of the present work.Existing multisensory integration theories focus on how failure of cognitive processes thought to be involved in multisensory integration leads to falls in older adults.Insufficient emphasis,however,has been placed on specific contributions of individual sensory modalities to multisensory integration processes and cross-modal interactions that occur between the sensory modalities in relation to gait and balance.In the present work,we review the contributions of somatosensory,visual,and vestibular modalities,along with their multisensory intersections to gait and balance in older adults and patients with Parkinson’s disease.We also review evidence of vestibular contributions to multisensory temporal binding windows,previously shown to be highly pertinent to fall risk in older adults.Lastly,we relate multisensory vestibular mechanisms to potential neural substrates,both at the level of neurobiology(concerning positron emission tomography imaging)and at the level of electrophysiology(concerning electroencephalography).We hope that this integrative review,drawing influence across multiple subdisciplines of neuroscience,paves the way for novel research directions and therapeutic neuromodulatory approaches,to improve the lives of older adults and patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

Effects of acetylcysteine on micro-inflammation and pulmonary ventilation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation

BACKGROUND Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(AECOPD)is a serious complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,often characterized by increased morbidity and mortality.In traditional Chinese medicine,AECOPD is linked to phlegm-heat and blood-stasis,presenting symptoms like thick sputum,fever,and chest pain.It has been shown that acetylcysteine inhalation in conjunction with conventional therapy significantly reduced inflammatory markers and improved lung function parameters in patients with AECOPD,suggesting that acetylcysteine may be an important adjunctive therapy for patients with phlegm-heat-blood stasis type AECOPD.AIM To investigate the effect of acetylcysteine on microinflammation and lung ventilation in patients with phlegm-heat and blood-stasis-type AECOPD.METHODS One hundred patients with phlegm-heat and blood-stasis-type AECOPD were randomly assigned to two groups.The treatment group received acetylcysteine inhalation(10%solution,5 mL,twice daily)along with conventional therapy,whereas the control group received only conventional therapy.The treatment duration was 14 d.Inflammatory markers(C-reactive protein,interleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-alpha)in the serum and sputum as well as lung function parameters(forced expiratory volume in one second,forced vital capacity,and peak expiratory flow)were assessed pre-and post-treatment.Acetylcysteine inhalation led to significant reductions in inflammatory markers and improvements in lung function parameters compared to those in the control group(P<0.05).This suggests that acetylcysteine could serve as an effective adjunct therapy for patients with phlegm-heat and blood-stasis-type AECOPD.RESULTS Acetylcysteine inhalation significantly reduced inflammatory markers in the serum and sputum and improved lung ventilation function parameters in patients with phlegm-heat and blood-stasis type AECOPD compared with the control group.These differences were statistically significant(P<0.05).The study concluded that acetylcysteine inhalation had a positive effect on microinflammation and lung ventilation function in patients with this type of AECOPD,suggesting its potential as an adjuvant therapy for such cases.CONCLUSION Acetylcysteine inhalation demonstrated significant improvements in reducing inflammatory markers in the serum and sputum,as well as enhancing lung ventilation function parameters in patients with phlegm-heat and bloodstasis type AECOPD.These findings suggest that acetylcysteine could serve as a valuable adjuvant therapy for individuals with this specific type of AECOPD,offering benefits for managing microinflammation and optimizing lung function.