To explore the scientific connotation of Fuyang therapy for liver cancer based on mitochondrial function
Liver cancer poses a serious threat to human health,and research into its pathogenesis and exploration of treatment strategies have always been major focuses in the medical field.Recent studies have indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a promoting role in the progression of liver cancer,primarily manifested through disruptions in energy metabolism,decreased mitochondrial outer membrane permeability, and dysregulation of calcium ion homeostasis. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), “Yang deficiency and Yin excess” is considered the core pathogenesis of liver cancer, and the fundamental treatment principle of “Fuyang Guben” (supporting Yang and reinforcing the root) has been proposed. The mechanism of action may be associated with the improvement of mitochondrial function, however modern research in this area remains relatively limited. Through theoretical analysis and comprehensive literature review, this paper elucidates the theoretical basis of Fuyang therapy for liver cancer from the perspective of TCM theory,summarizes the specific roles of mitochondrial function in the progression of liver cancer, and systematically reviews recent advances in modern mechanistic research on how Fuyang therapy inhibits the occurrence and development of liver cancer by regulating mitochondrial function. Fuyang therapy can improve mitochondrial function from multiple perspectives,including restoring energy metabolism,regulating membrane permeability, and maintaining calcium homeostasis,thereby inhibiting the proliferation and progression of liver cancer cells.Existing experimental and clinical studies have preliminarily verified the potential efficacy of Fuyang-based formulas in anti-liver cancer treatments and their regulatory mechanisms involving mitochondrial function-related pathways. Fuyang therapy demonstrates both theoretical rationality and experimental support in the treatment of liver cancer.Its anti-liver cancer effects are achieved through the improvement of mitochondrial function,providing new insights for the formulation of TCM-based treatments and mechanistic research on liver cancer.
Authors
- Shunian Li
- Yuxiao Xu (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0802-845X)
- Shanshan LI
- Yang Wang (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0738-9621)
- Huili Wang (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6852-8002)
- Yunlong Lin
- Luping Zheng (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8417-9292)
- Bu-Gao Zhou
- Bohan Cai
Institutions
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CN)
- Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases (CN)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine
- Published
- 2025-10-21
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100709
- Primary Topic
- Cancer, Hypoxia, and Metabolism
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00