Quiescent pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) represent only a very low proportion of the pancreatic tissue, but their activation leads to stroma remodeling and fibrosis associated with pathologies such as chronic pancreati...Quiescent pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) represent only a very low proportion of the pancreatic tissue, but their activation leads to stroma remodeling and fibrosis associated with pathologies such as chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PSC activation can be induced by various stresses, including acidosis, growth factors (PDGF, TGFβ), hypoxia, high pressure, or intercellular communication with pancreatic cancer cells. Activated PSC targeting represents a promising therapeutic strategy, but little is known regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the activation of PSCs. Identification of new biomarkers of PSC activation associated with desmoplasia in chronic pancreatitis and PDAC could lead to new therapeutic targets for exocrine pancreatic disease treatments. Ion channels and transporters are transmembrane proteins involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including PDAC. They are well known to act as biosensors of the tissue microenvironment, and they can be easily accessible for drugs. However, their role in PSC activation is not fully understood. In this review, we briefly discuss the role of activated PSCs in pancreas inflammation and pathological fibrosis (associated with chronic pancreatitis and PDAC), and we describe the role of specific ion channels and transporters (Ca, K, Na and Cl) in these processes in the light of recent literature.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: This study investigates how pH levels affect the characteristics of biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. Cassava peel starch's abundance and biodegradability make it a promising candid...BACKGROUND/AIMS: This study investigates how pH levels affect the characteristics of biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. Cassava peel starch's abundance and biodegradability make it a promising candidate for sustainable packaging. The study seeks to improve film qualities such as thickness, density, moisture content, solubility, and optical properties by altering pH levels. Understanding these effects is critical for increasing the acceptability of cassava peel starch biopolymers in a variety of industrial applications, notably environmentally friendly packaging solutions. METHODS: Starch extracted from cassava peel was used to produce films using the casting method at specified pH levels. The films were evaluated for thickness and density using classical methods. Moisture content was determined following the AOAC 930.15 (2000) protocol. Color analysis was conducted using the CIELab color space technique. Water solubility and solubility in acidic (HCl) and alkaline (NaOH) solutions were assessed through chemical solubility tests performed by gravimetry. RESULTS: The study investigated how pH impacts biopolymer films manufactured from cassava peel starch. The film thickness varied greatly across pH levels, with pH 10.5 creating the thickest films (0.158 ± 0.012 mm) and pH 6.5 providing the thinnest (0.118 ± 0.015 mm). Density varied slightly, from 1.393 ± 0.122 g/cc to 1.551 ± 0.153 g/cc. Moisture content fluctuated significantly, affecting biodegradability. Color study indicated pH-dependent variations in transparency and opacity, with higher pH values resulting in larger color deviations (∆E). Water solubility remained constant, but NaOH solubility dropped with increasing pH, peaking at pH 7.5 (23.44 ± 2.82%). CONCLUSION: This work investigates the use of cassava peel starch for biopolymer synthesis at controlled pH levels. The findings demonstrate the material's practicality and provide critical insights for enhancing film qualities, particularly in a variety of industrial applications and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Bruise is the extravasation of blood that may be mild or severe. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are one of the most promising cells used in regenerative medicine for treating many disorders...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Bruise is the extravasation of blood that may be mild or severe. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are one of the most promising cells used in regenerative medicine for treating many disorders. We aimed to evaluate the efficiency of BM-MSCs in treating cutaneous bruises. METHODS: 78 male albino rats were equally divided into 3 groups, control group (G1), bruise wound group (G2) and Bruised animals treated with BM-MSCs group (G3). The sequences of color changes were recorded. Animals were sacrificed and skin samples were collected for histopathological examination and analyzing the mRNA expression rate of transforming growth factor- β (TGF-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrotic factor-α (TNF-α), Heat shock protein-90 α (HSP-90α), Metalloprotiens-9 (MMP-9), and microRNA-21 (miR-21), which incorporated in the healing process and the apoptotic rat. RESULTS: Subcutaneous injection of BM-MSCs reduced the color intensity of the bruised skin, with statistically significant upregulation of TGF-β, TNF-α, and HSP-90α, significant down-regulation of MMP-9 and miR-21 mRNA expression rate, and significant reduction of the apoptotic rate and the inflammatory cells. CONCLUSION: BM-MSCs have a promising improvement in the healing process of bruises by regulating the expression rate of TGF-β- IL-6- TNF-α- HSP-90α- MMP-9- miR-21 and reducing the apoptotic rate and inflammatory cell infiltration.
Thiazide, thiazide-like, and loop diuretics are primarily known for inhibiting members of the SLC12A family of Cl transporters, which include the Na+Cl cotransporter (NCC), NaK2Cl cotransporters (NKCC1 and NKCC2) and KCl...Thiazide, thiazide-like, and loop diuretics are primarily known for inhibiting members of the SLC12A family of Cl transporters, which include the Na+Cl cotransporter (NCC), NaK2Cl cotransporters (NKCC1 and NKCC2) and KCl symporters (KCC1-4). While the main pharmacological effect of these diuretics is diuresis, achieved by promoting the excretion of excess water and salt through the kidneys, they have intriguing pharmacological effects beyond their traditional ones which cannot be solely attributed to their effects on renal salt transport. Of particular interest is their role in modulating inflammatory processes. These diuretics appear to exert both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially by influencing various pathways involved in immune responses. For example, NKCC1 has been implicated in the regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL1β), interleukin-8 (IL8) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), which are critical mediators of immune cell activity during inflammation. The underlying mechanisms through which NKCC1 contributes to inflammation may involve key signaling pathways, such as that mediated by the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB). This pathway is crucial for the activation and assembly of the inflammasome, as well as for regulating the phagocytic activity of immune cells. In addition, NKCC1 can control (or be controlled) by reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress, which contribute to the pathogenesis of various inflammatory conditions as well. Diuretics may help mitigate inflammation-related tissue damage by scavenging reactive oxygen species and boosting antioxidant defenses, thereby restoring redox balance in inflamed tissues. Despite these intriguing effects, the precise molecular pathways through which thiazide, thiazide-like and loop diuretics may modulate inflammatory responses remain poorly understood and warrant further investigation. This aspect of their pharmacological profile highlights their potential for therapeutic use beyond the scope of traditional diuretic functions.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, defined as diabetes diagnosed in the second or third trimester, often asymptomatic. This study investigates the therapeutic...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, defined as diabetes diagnosed in the second or third trimester, often asymptomatic. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of olive leaf extracts and stem cells in mitigating GDM-induced complications, particularly focusing on renal function, oxidative stress, and pancreatic cell regeneration. METHODS: Measurements were made in gravid female rats with or without intraperitoneal administration of Streptozotocin (35 mg/kg body weight). Biochemical analyses were conducted to evaluate renal function markers (urea, uric acid, creatinine) and oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase levels). Histopathological and immunohistopathological evaluations of kidney tissues were performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining and specific markers (p53, Insulin, and PCNA) to assess cellular changes. RESULTS: The diabetic group exhibited significantly elevated levels of urea, uric acid, and creatinine (p<0.01) compared to the control group. Treatment with stem cells and olive leaf extracts significantly reduced these levels. Malondialdehyde levels were elevated in the diabetic group (p<0.01) but showed marked improvement in the treatment groups. Additionally, glutathione and superoxide dismutase activities were diminished in the diabetic rats (p<0.05) but increased following treatment. Histopathological and immunohistopathological analyses revealed cellular regeneration and improved tissue morphology in the treatment groups compared to the diabetic group. CONCLUSION: Stem cells and olive leaf extracts exhibit significant therapeutic potential in ameliorating renal dysfunction, oxidative stress, and tissue damage associated with GDM, highlighting their role in enhancing pancreatic cell regeneration.
This review provides an analysis of the current literature on the health and nutrition of blood donors, examining key aspects that affect the quality of donated blood and the well-being of donors. The review discusses ef...This review provides an analysis of the current literature on the health and nutrition of blood donors, examining key aspects that affect the quality of donated blood and the well-being of donors. The review discusses effective iron absorption facilitated by key nutrients and presents evidence on the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and folic acid. The review examines the differences in iron levels between men and women and highlights the role of sex hormones in regulating iron metabolism. In addition, the review discusses the link between psycho-emotional well-being and diet, showing that proper dietary habits can improve mental health, reduce stress, and enhance the donation experience. This article provides practical recommendations to support donor well-being and the effectiveness of blood donation programmes worldwide. By highlighting the differences between a modern diet and a diet tailored specifically for blood donors, we aim to emphasise the importance of a nutrient-dense diet for blood donors, which is critical for effective recovery and overall health maintenance. It is important to understand and incorporate different nutrient-dense foods that influence iron absorption for optimal health in blood donors. Donor health is also influenced by regular physical activity and psycho-emotional well-being. The 'healthy donor effect' and its implications for maintaining higher standards of donor health are explored in this review. This article highlights the fact that the diet of blood donors is influenced by gender, as men and women have different nutritional needs and physiological responses, particularly with regard to iron levels and recovery. The importance of enhancing or inhibiting iron absorption provides valuable evidence for food fortification as a cost-effective solution to reduce iron deficiency in blood donors.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that severely affects cognitive functions and memory. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that severely affects cognitive functions and memory. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. However, traditional diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, are costly and less accessible. This study aims to develop an automated, cost-effective digital diagnostic approach using deep learning (DL) and computer-aided detection (CAD) methods for early AD identification and classification. METHODS: The proposed framework utilizes pretrained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for feature extraction, integrated with two classifiers: multi-class support vector machine (MSVM) and artificial neural network (ANN). A dataset categorized into four groups-non-demented, very mild demented, mild demented, and moderate demented-was employed for evaluation. To optimize the classification process, a texture-based algorithm was applied for feature reduction, enhancing computational efficiency and reducing processing time. RESULTS: The system demonstrated high statistical performance, achieving an accuracy of 91%, precision of 95%, and recall of 90%. Among the initial set of twenty-two texture features, seven were identified as particularly effective in differentiating normal cases from mild AD stages, significantly streamlining the classification process. These results validate the robustness and efficacy of the proposed DL-based CAD system. CONCLUSION: This study presents a reliable and affordable solution for early AD detection and diagnosis. The proposed system outperforms existing state-of-the-art models and offers a valuable tool for timely treatment planning. Future research should explore its application to larger, more diverse datasets and investigate integration with other imaging modalities, such as MRI, to further enhance diagnostic precision.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Phenobarbital (PB), commonly used for epilepsy management, is associated with testicular dysfunction after prolonged use. This study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effects of cranberry (CB) and vitam...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Phenobarbital (PB), commonly used for epilepsy management, is associated with testicular dysfunction after prolonged use. This study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effects of cranberry (CB) and vitamin C (Vit-C) on PB-induced reproductive toxicity in rats. METHODS: Forty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups. G1 was the negative control, while G2 received PB (160 mg/kg orally) for one month. Groups G3 and G4 received PB followed by CB (500 mg/kg) and Vit-C (27 mg/kg) treatments, respectively. G5 received PB followed by a combined CB and Vit-C regimen. The levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reduced (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined using standard biochemical assays. Histological changes in testicular tissues were assessed, and caspase-3 expression was quantified via immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: PB exposure increased MDA levels, reduced SOD and CAT activity, and disrupted testicular histology, with elevated caspase-3 expression indicating heightened apoptosis. Treatment with CB or Vit-C significantly restored antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced MDA levels, and ameliorated histological abnormalities. Co-treatment with CB and Vit-C yielded the most pronounced protective effects, including reduced caspase-3 expression and improved testicular structure. CONCLUSION: CB and Vit-C demonstrate significant protective effects against PB-induced testicular toxicity, likely due to their antioxidative and anti-apoptotic properties. Co-administration of these agents offers an effective strategy to mitigate reproductive toxicities associated with prolonged PB use.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), a prevalent complication in pregnancy, is characterized by the Diabetes Association as diabetes diagnosed in the second or third trimester, often remaining asymptomat...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), a prevalent complication in pregnancy, is characterized by the Diabetes Association as diabetes diagnosed in the second or third trimester, often remaining asymptomatic. This study investigates the intricate effects of Streptozotocin on pregnant rats, unraveling its impact on Gestational Type 2 Diabetes (GTD). The research delves into the potential therapeutic roles of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and olive leaf extract (OLE) in mitigating the consequences of Streptozotocin-induced pancreatic impairment. METHODS: Female rats were divided into control group, diabetic group, group treated with stem cells after diabetes, group treated with olive leaf extract after diabetes, and group treated with olive leaf extract and stem cells after diabetes. A comprehensive analysis was conducted for all study groups, including diabetic patients' files, hormonal dynamics, histopathological changes, tissue immune responses, and antioxidant mechanisms for all study groups. RESULTS: The results of the study showed that diabetes causes changes in the level of insulin, HB A1C, Fructosamine, HOMA-IR and hormones compared to control group. On the contrary, there was a noticeable improvement in these parameters after treatment with olive leaf extract and stem cells. The results of the present study demonstrated that the combination of OLE and MSCs emerges as a promising approach, demonstrating enhanced glycemic control, modulation of insulin resistance, and improvements in pancreatic islet health. Aso, histopathological results underscore positive effects on pancreatic islet integrity. CONCLUSION: Stem Cells and Olive Leaf Extract demonstrate favorable effects on regenerative pancreatic cells under normal conditions.
Tendons play a crucial role in the musculoskeletal system, connecting muscles to bones and enabling efficient force transfer. However, they are prone to acute and chronic injuries, which, if not properly repaired, can si...Tendons play a crucial role in the musculoskeletal system, connecting muscles to bones and enabling efficient force transfer. However, they are prone to acute and chronic injuries, which, if not properly repaired, can significantly impair function. Tendinopathy, a prevalent condition affecting approximately 20% of musculoskeletal complaints, arises from an imbalance between micro-injury accumulation and repair processes. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of tendons is a hierarchical structure comprising collagen fibrils, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins that regulate organization, hydration, and mechanical properties. Mechanotransduction pathways, mediated by integrins and focal adhesion complexes, activate signaling cascades such as MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt, driving tenocyte gene expression and ECM remodeling. Adaptations to load involve region-specific remodeling, with tensile regions favoring aligned Type I collagen and compressive regions promoting proteoglycans like aggrecan. Stress shielding or reduced loading disrupts these pathways, leading to matrix disorganization and inflammation, predisposing tendons to degenerative changes. Insights into these molecular mechanisms inform rehabilitation strategies to enhance tendon repair and mitigate tendinopathy progression in both athletic and general populations.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: The nano-method has been used as a technique for creating novel, non-traditional antimicrobial agents. This effective method for treating infectious diseases has many advantages over conventional antibio...BACKGROUND/AIMS: The nano-method has been used as a technique for creating novel, non-traditional antimicrobial agents. This effective method for treating infectious diseases has many advantages over conventional antibiotics, including increased efficacy against species that have developed drug resistance, and the ability to circumvent the development of resistance that disrupts a number of biological pathways. As a result, the objective of this study was to synthesize and characterize silver nanoparticles using phenolic compounds obtained from . The nanoparticles were then used as antibacterial agents on the multidrug resistant as well as biofilm formation mechanism were also investigated. METHODS: Ten isolates of were acquired from the labs of the University of Baghdad's Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Institute. The VITEK-2 system was used to confirm the diagnosis. Aqueous and methanolic extracts of leaves were used to create silver nanoparticles and obtain CAgNPs, which were then characterized using Atomic Fluorescence Microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and Zeta potential analyzers. The extracts were put through a series of assays, including High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), antibacterial activity assessments, and the microtiter plate method to determine the lowest inhibitory concentration (MIC) and antibiofilm formation. RESULTS: Both aqueous and methanolic extracts containing silver nanoparticles included spherical nanoparticles that may be single or combined. The HPLC results showed the presence of two phenolic compounds (gallic acid and caffeine) by comparing their retention durations to those of the reference compounds. The results of the antibacterial activity of (CAgNPs) showed that the methanolic (CAgNPs) extract was more effective than the aqueous (CAgNPs) extract, producing inhibitory zones of 15.67 ± 0.58 and 20.33 ± 0.58 mm, at 375 and 750 ppm respectively, when compared to the aqueous (CAgNPs) extract, which produced inhibitory zones of 12.33 ± 0.58 and 15.67 ± 0.58 mm, respectively. The MIC result also showed that the CAgNPs methanolic extract was more effective than the CAgNPs aqueous extract. The MIC of the CAgNPs methanolic extract on isolates were 11.718 and 23.43 µg/ml, while the MIC of the CAgNPs aqueous extract on all isolates were 46.87 µg/ml except isolate No. 3 and 6 which was 11.718 and 93.75 µg/ml respectively. Additionally, The anti-biofilm in was increased when CAgNPs methanolic extract were used compared with the CAgNPs aqueous extract, the CAgNPs methanolic extract inhibited 80%, 90% and 100% of the biofilm formation of in 23.43, 46.87 and 93.75 µg/ml respectively, while the anti-biofilm activity of the CAgNPs aqueous extract on isolates was 80% and 100% of the biofilm formation in 46.87 and 93.75 µg/ml respectively. CONCLUSION: The methanolic and aqueous leaves extracts from are a successful method for producing CAgNPs. The synthesized CAgNPs also have significant antibacterial activity against S. aureus, depending on the concentrations, and inhibit S. aureus biofilm formation.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) plays a crucial role in regulating oxidative stress and cellular metabolism, positioning it as an important subject in oncological research. The involvement of U...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) plays a crucial role in regulating oxidative stress and cellular metabolism, positioning it as an important subject in oncological research. The involvement of UCP2 in cancer is complex and context-dependent, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target. In this study, we aimed to perform a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of UCP2, with a particular focus on gender-related malignancies such as breast (BRCA), prostate (PRAD), ovarian (OV), and testicular tumors (TGCT). METHODS: We analyzed expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), examining correlations with prognosis, tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, genes involved in steroidogenesis, sex hormone receptor genes, and drug sensitivity. RESULTS: Significant variability in UCP2 expression was observed across cancer types. levels were elevated in BRCA and OV but reduced in PRAD and TGCT. High expression was associated with a better prognosis in OV and poorer overall survival in PRAD. Furthermore, correlated with TMB and MSI in OV, TGCT, and BRCA. expression was also linked to immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, steroidogenic genes, and sex hormone receptor genes, with variable effects depending on cancer type and gender. Additionally, also demonstrated sensitivity to specific anticancer drugs. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the interplay between UCP2, immune and hormonal pathways, and drug response and reveal potential opportunities for new therapeutic combinations, especially in gender-related cancers.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Lead exposure is known to induce oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in modulating oxidative stress, with L-arginine as a precursor of NO and N-nitro-L-arginine...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Lead exposure is known to induce oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in modulating oxidative stress, with L-arginine as a precursor of NO and N-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA) as an inhibitor of NO synthase, an enzyme that catalyses the production of nitric oxide (NO) from L-arginine. METHODS: This study investigated the differential effects of L-arginine and L-NNA on markers of oxidative stress and biochemical changes in brain tissue from rats with different levels of resistance to hypoxia exposed to lead nitrate. Rats with either low or high resistance to hypoxia were exposed to lead nitrate (oral 3.6 mg lead nitrate/kg b.w. per day for 30 days) and treated with L-arginine (600 mg/kg b.w., i.p., 30 min before and after exposure to lead nitrate) or L-NNA (35 mg/kg b.w., i.p., 30 min before and after exposure to lead nitrate). Brain tissue samples were analysed for lipid peroxidation, oxidative modification of proteins, and activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and peroxidase, and total antioxidant status (TAS). We also examined the biomarkers of biochemical pathways involving the activity of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KGDH). In addition, the trend observed was supported by assessments of the acetylcholine levels and acetylcholinesterase activity (ACh-AChE system) in brain tissue. RESULTS: In rats with low resistance to hypoxia, the L-arginine treatment significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and oxidative protein modification but increased antioxidant enzyme activity, suggesting a protective effect against lead-induced oxidative stress. Conversely, in rats with high resistance to hypoxia, L-NNA had a protective effect, reducing lead-induced oxidative damage and decreasing lipid peroxidation, whereas L-arginine exacerbated oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defences. These findings were supported by corresponding changes in the acetylcholine-acetylcholinesterase system, reflecting the observed patterns of lead-induced oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. The study shows that L-arginine exerts a protective effect by reducing lead-induced oxidative damage via an improvement in TAS. Our study shows that lead nitrate exposure significantly increases ala-nine and aspartate aminotransferase activity in brain tissue, with L-arginine exacerbating and L-NNA reversing this effect. The lead nitrate exposure also affected the activities of SDH and KGDH, which are important for cellular energy production and hypoxia resistance, with L-arginine altering SDH activity depending on the level of resistance and L-NNA enhancing both SDH and KGDH activities. These trends were further validated by alterations in the ACh-AChE system, highlighting the differential role of NO-dependent mechanisms in modulating lead-induced neurotoxicity based on hypoxia resistance. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest potential targeted therapeutic strategies based on the oxidative stress profile and highlight the potential of nitric oxide system modulators in counteracting lead-induced biochemical alterations and the dynamics of the ACh-AChE system depending on the individual physiological reactivity of organisms.
Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women. Despite extensive research in recent years the molecular basis of breast cancer development, growth and metastasis remains unclear. Numerous studies highlight the in...Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women. Despite extensive research in recent years the molecular basis of breast cancer development, growth and metastasis remains unclear. Numerous studies highlight the involvement of BMI-1 in tumorigenesis. BMI-1 protein is a key component of Polycomb Repressive Complex 1, which by ubiquitinylation of histone H2A, regulates expression of genes involved in various cellular processes including cell cycle, proliferation and programmed cell death. Overexpression of BMI-1 has been often associated with breast cancer development and progression. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge of BMI-1's role in breast cancer biology and its potential significance as prognostic marker and potential target of new anticancer therapy.
BACKGROUND/AIMS: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or atherosclerosis is a chronic condition that is incurable and a leading contributor to morbidity and mortality. However, it is easy to prevent ASCVD by ma...BACKGROUND/AIMS: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or atherosclerosis is a chronic condition that is incurable and a leading contributor to morbidity and mortality. However, it is easy to prevent ASCVD by managing or preventing risk factors like hyperlipidemia, obesity/overweight, hypertension, and diabetes. This systematic review summarizes and presents current evidence on whether physical exercise could help in reducing ASCVD risk factors. METHODS: A comprehensive search was performed on PubMed, CINAHAL, ProQuest and Google Scholar. The sources were assessed based on their peer-review status, description of methods, unavailability of full texts, publication date (less than seven years), and publication in the English Language. The final search results constituted 19 peer-reviewed articles. RESULTS: Physical exercise is effective in improving the lipid profile, reducing waist circumference, reducing blood pressure, and lowering blood glucose levels. All types of physical exercise with intensity varying from low to high yield positive outcomes, although there is no consensus on whether the physical exercise program should be implemented for three months or less or on a long-term basis. CONCLUSION: Physical exercise prevents and improves the management of hyperlipidemia, obesity/overweight, hypertension, and diabetes, which makes it a good intervention for reducing the risk of ASCVD. However, further studies should be performed to determine the duration within which the intervention should be sustained for optimal results.