Research Progress of Sijunzi Decoction and Xiaochaihu Decoction Combined with TACE in the Treatment of Primary Liver Cancer

Abstract

Sijunzi Decoction combined with Xiaochaihu Decoction is composed of ginseng, atractylodes, Poria cocos, licorice, bupleurum, scutellaria, etc., and has the effects of invigorating qi and strengthening the spleen, soothing the liver and relieving depression. Clinically, it is often combined with TACE for the treatment of primary liver cancer (PLC). Its active components include ginsenosides, saikosaponin D, atractylenolide, etc., which can exert anti-tumor effects in collaboration with TACE through multiple pathways. Studies have shown that this combined regimen can inhibit liver inflammatory responses, reduce the release of cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 after TACE, and alleviate embolization syndromes such as fever and abdominal pain; regulate the p53 and NF-κB signaling pathways to induce tumor cell apoptosis, while protecting normal hepatocytes through the PI3K/Akt pathway; activate the activity of CD8⁺ T cells and NK cells, and reverse the immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Clinical data show that it can improve the effective rate of TACE treatment, reduce the levels of ALT, AST, and AFP, shorten the duration of postoperative discomfort, and improve the KPS score of patients. This paper also points out the problems existing in current research, such as insufficient depth of basic mechanisms and the lack of RCT. In the future, through multidisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation, it is expected to construct a more efficient and individualized integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine diagnosis and treatment system, opening up a new path for improving the prognosis of liver cancer patients.