Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Advances in the Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections: Bridging Traditional Methods and Emerging Technologies.
Sahu BK, Mallick U, Sahu MC … +1 more , Panda SK
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41588585 · Publisher ↗
Invasive Fungal Infections (IFIs) are a growing global health concern, particularly among immunocompromised individuals and critically ill patients. Diagnosis remains challenging due to nonspecific symptoms, low sensitiv...
Invasive Fungal Infections (IFIs) are a growing global health concern, particularly among immunocompromised individuals and critically ill patients. Diagnosis remains challenging due to nonspecific symptoms, low sensitivity of conventional methods, and the emergence of antifungal resistance. This review outlines the diagnostic limitations of microscopy, culture, and serological assays while exploring the potential of molecular tools. Emphasis is placed on integrated diagnostic pathways, resistance gene detection, point-of-care assays, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) enhanced imaging for fungal infections. Diagnostic challenges in special populations are also addressed. The role of diagnostics in antifungal stewardship and infection control is discussed with forward-looking perspectives. By integrating conventional approaches with emerging technologies, this review highlights the need for a more precise and responsive diagnostic era in IFIs. Timely and accurate diagnosis of IFIs is vital for improving outcomes. The integration of traditional and emerging diagnostic tools, including pan-fungal platforms and resistance profiling, is key to advancing fungal disease management globally, particularly in resource- limited settings.
Effects of the Association of Percutaneous Collagen Induction and Gold Nanoparticles With Curcumin on the Epithelial Inflammatory Response in Wistar Rats.
Ramos Lima I, Martins G, Pereira da Silva SA … +8 more , da Costa C, Clemencia AM, Faller CJ, Generoso JS, Feuser PE, Gu Y, Thirupathi A, Lock Silveira PC
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41582580 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This research aimed to investigate the effects of biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (GNPs) combined with curcumin (Curcuma longa L.) on inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters induced by percutaneous c...
INTRODUCTION: This research aimed to investigate the effects of biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (GNPs) combined with curcumin (Curcuma longa L.) on inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters induced by percutaneous collagen induction (PCI) in Wistar rats. METHODS: Sixty rats were separated into five different groups (n=12): I. Sham Group; II. PCI Group; III. PCI+GNPs Group; IV. PCI+Cur Group; V. PCI+GNPs-Cur Group. Then, PCI, Cur, and/or GNPs were applied topically to the dorsal regions. PCI and topical actives were used at three different times with 14-day intervals between them. Euthanasia was performed 14 days after the last treatment. RESULTS: When evaluating pro-inflammatory cytokines, all treatment groups showed a significant decrease compared to the PCI group. In the analysis of anti-inflammatory cytokines, the PCI+GNPs-Cur group showed an increase compared to the PCI group. After assessing oxidants (ROS and NO) and antioxidants (SOD and GSH), the PCI+Cur, PCI+GNPs, and PCI+GNPs-Cur groups exhibited decreased oxidant levels and increased antioxidant levels compared to the PCI group. DISCUSSION: When evaluating pro-inflammatory cytokines, all treatment groups showed a significant decrease compared to the PCI group. In the analysis of anti-inflammatory cytokines, the PCI+GNPs-Cur group exhibited an increase compared to the PCI group. After assessing oxidants (ROS and NO) and antioxidants (SOD and GSH), the PCI+Cur, PCI+GNPs, and PCI+GNPs-Cur groups demonstrated decreased oxidant levels and increased antioxidant levels relative to the PCI group. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study demonstrate that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are enhanced by the association of GNPs with Cur, reducing the inflammatory process caused by PCI.
Structural and Functional Characterization of Type IV Pilus-Associated Proteins PilV, Pil94, and Pil96 of Aeromonas hydrophila: Potential Role in Human Pathogenesis.
Bhattacharyya A, Banerjee G, Chattopadhyay P
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572709 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Recent genomic analyses identified a distinct pilVWXY operon in hypervirulent Aeromonas hydrophila ATCC 7966, encoding PilV and two previously uncharacterized orthologs, AHA_0694 (Pil94) and AHA_0695 (Pil96),...
OBJECTIVE: Recent genomic analyses identified a distinct pilVWXY operon in hypervirulent Aeromonas hydrophila ATCC 7966, encoding PilV and two previously uncharacterized orthologs, AHA_0694 (Pil94) and AHA_0695 (Pil96), hypothesized to mediate host-pathogen interactions. METHODS: Complete A. hydrophila genomes (n = 53) were retrieved from NCBI, and the distribution of pilV, pil94, and pil96 was assessed using STRING v11.5. Physicochemical and structural features were analyzed via ExPASy-ProtParam, homology modeling, and validation using RAMPAGE, ProQ, and ProSA. Representative models were docked with eight human β- integrins using the HADDOCK server and evaluated by HADDOCK score, cluster size, van der Waals energy, RMSD (root-mean-square deviation), buried surface area, and Z-score. RESULTS: Twenty-eight strains of A. hydrophila (predominantly hypervirulent) encoded all three proteins, whereas 11 non-virulent strains lacked them. Structural modelling revealed a conserved lollipop-like conformation with an extended N-terminal α-helix characteristic of Type IV pilins. Docking simulations indicated selective, high-affinity binding patterns (PilV with Integrin β3/β4/β7; Pil94 with integrin β1/β2/β3/β5; Pil96 with integrin β1/β3/β5/β7/β8), suggesting roles in multi-tissue adhesion and systemic dissemination. CONCLUSION: The restricted occurrence of pilV, pil94, and pil96 in virulent strains and their predicted affinity for human β-integrins underscore their importance in host colonization and pathogenesis, identifying them as promising molecular targets for diagnostic or therapeutic development.
Preparation and efficacy validation of dihydromyricetin nanoliposomes.
Liu Y, Zhan X, Zhu J … +1 more , Pei X
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572708 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Dihydromyricetin (DMY), a phytoflavonoid with diverse pharmacological activities, is limited in cosmetic applications by poor solubility, easy discoloration, and low bioavailability. This study aimed to add...
INTRODUCTION: Dihydromyricetin (DMY), a phytoflavonoid with diverse pharmacological activities, is limited in cosmetic applications by poor solubility, easy discoloration, and low bioavailability. This study aimed to address these drawbacks for its practical cosmetic use. METHODS: DMY nanoliposomes (DMY-NL) were prepared via ethanol injection-high-pressure homogenization, with orthogonal tests optimizing the process using particle size, PDI, and zeta potential as indices. Tests included in vitro dialysis-based sustained-release assay, erythrocyte hemolysis/human patch tests (safety), and DPPH scavenging/hemolysis/human patch antiirritation tests (soothing efficacy). RESULTS: DMY-NL had >90% encapsulation efficiency, 90-day stability under different storage conditions, and 48-h sustained release (superior to control). Safety was confirmed by hemolysis and patch tests; soothing efficacy was verified via DPPH scavenging and anti-irritation tests. DISCUSSION: DMY-NL's high encapsulation, good stability, and sustained release solve DMY's cosmetic application limitations. Confirmed safety and soothing effects support its practical use in cosmetics. CONCLUSION: This study provides a theoretical and practical basis for DMY's cosmetic application, expected to expand its use in the cosmetic industry.
Bioactivities of Secondary Metabolites from Endophytes: A Recent Review.
Chu X, Zhao B, Wan X … +5 more , Gao L, Li H, Guo D, Liu Q, Hu Y
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572707 · Publisher ↗
Endophytes are symbiotic microbial communities residing within plants and represent a significant source of bioactive secondary metabolites. As integral components of plant microecosystems, endophytes establish stable an...
Endophytes are symbiotic microbial communities residing within plants and represent a significant source of bioactive secondary metabolites. As integral components of plant microecosystems, endophytes establish stable and mutually beneficial interactions with their hosts, which not only contribute to plant growth and stress resistance but also drive the diversity of their secondary metabolic products through long-term coevolution. These metabolites exhibit diverse biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antiviral, and antioxidant effects, and these bioactive properties make them promising candidates for the development of new agents in multiple fields, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and functional materials, due to their natural origins and relatively low environmental impact. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in understanding the bioactivities of endophyte- derived secondary metabolites, highlighting novel compounds and their pharmacological potential. Alongside traditional approaches, recent technological advancements in separation, purification, and structural identification have further facilitated the discovery and characterization of these metabolites, expanding the pool of potential bioactive molecules for research and application. We also detail common methodologies for investigating endophyte metabolites, such as fermentation optimization and biotransformation, and briefly touch on how these strategies have been widely adopted to enhance metabolite production and explore structural modifications. With the deepening of interdisciplinary research involving microbiology, chemistry, pharmacology, and biotechnology, the exploration of endophyte secondary metabolites has entered a more systematic and in-depth stage. Finally, we discuss current challenges in translating these findings into practical applications, including issues related to resource accessibility, production scalability, and comprehensive efficacy evaluation, and outline promising future research directions for drug discovery in the field of medicine, encompassing the excavation of untapped endophytic resources, the optimization of production processes, and the in-depth evaluation of safety and efficacy, so as to better harness their potential for human health and sustainable development.
Protective Role of Glibenclamide and Magnesium Sulfate in Fructoseinduced Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Fatima Zaidi SN, Yasmeen K, Alshahrani SM … +3 more , Akhtar S, Shahid SM, Rehman ZU
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572706 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate in fructose-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: An experimental T2DM model was establis...
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate in fructose-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: An experimental T2DM model was established in female Sprague Dawley rats using a 20% fructose solution for 12 weeks. The effects of glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate were assessed on glycemic control, oxidative stress, lipid profile, and tissue macro- and trace-element levels. Biochemical parameters were determined spectrophotometrically, and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA in SPSS (version 22). RESULTS: Treatment with glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate significantly (p<0.05) reduced serum insulin, insulin resistance, amylase, triglycerides, total and free cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and iron levels. Conversely, both agents markedly increased body weight, serum HDL-C, hepatic catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and hepatic zinc and magnesium concentrations compared with the diabetic control group. DISCUSSION: The findings indicate that glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate effectively attenuated hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and trace element disturbances induced by fructose feeding. Glibenclamide enhanced β-cell activity and insulin secretion, while magnesium sulfate improved insulin sensitivity, antioxidant defenses, and glucose homeostasis through modulation of the Nrf2 and PI3K/Akt pathways. CONCLUSION: Both glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate demonstrated significant protective and therapeutic effects against fructose-induced T2DM. Their combined ability to restore metabolic balance, enhance antioxidant capacity, and correct trace element deficiencies suggests potential clinical relevance of magnesium supplementation as an adjunct therapy in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Intestinal Epithelial METTL3 Deficiency Exacerbates Sepsis-Induced Barrier Injury via NF-κB/MLCK Pathway and the Protective Role of Curcumin.
Shi H, Sun J, Fang M … +3 more , Liu Q, Ling Y, Shi X
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572705 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Sepsis, a life-threatening systemic response to infection, frequently causes multiple organ dysfunction, with intestinal barrier injury playing a critical role. While METTL3, a key RNA methyltransferase, is...
INTRODUCTION: Sepsis, a life-threatening systemic response to infection, frequently causes multiple organ dysfunction, with intestinal barrier injury playing a critical role. While METTL3, a key RNA methyltransferase, is involved in many biological processes, its specific function in sepsis remains unknown. METHODS: We analyzed METTL3 expression in intestinal tissues from 30 sepsis patients (2020- 2022) undergoing partial bowel resection. We then used mice with intestine-specific METTL3 deletion (METTL3IEC-/- ) and Wild-Type (WT) controls, subjecting them to Cecal Ligation and Puncture (CLP) to model sepsis. Intestinal inflammation, barrier function, and the NF-κB/MLCK pathway were assessed. We also evaluated the therapeutic effect of curcumin administered via gavage at different doses. RESULTS: METTL3 expression was significantly reduced in necrotic/perforated tissues from sepsis patients. METTL3IEC-/- mice exhibited worsened intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction after CLP compared to WT mice. This was associated with increased activity of the NFκB/MLCK pathway. Crucially, curcumin treatment effectively reduced the expression of key pathway components (p65 and MLCK). This led to significant improvements: reduced intestinal injury, decreased inflammation, and enhanced barrier function. DISCUSSION: METTL3 is essential for maintaining intestinal barrier integrity during sepsis. Its deficiency exacerbates damage via the NF-κB/MLCK pathway. Targeting this pathway, potentially with curcumin, represents a promising therapeutic strategy for sepsis-induced intestinal injury. These findings clarify METTL3's role and highlight curcumin's therapeutic potential. CONCLUSION: METTL3 is essential for maintaining intestinal barrier integrity during sepsis. Its deficiency exacerbates damage, mediated through the NF-κB/MLCK pathway. Targeting this pathway, potentially with curcumin, represents a promising therapeutic strategy for sepsisinduced intestina.
Enhancing Local Anesthetic Efficacy: Controlled Release of Ropivacaine using Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) Acid-Polyvinyl Alcohol Nanocarriers.
Kong JR, Mo WY, Yao H … +6 more , Liang JN, Bu QC, Du CY, Cheang TY, Wang YM, Zhang H
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572704 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Ropivacaine (RPV), a commonly used local anesthetic, is limited in its effectiveness for postoperative pain management due to its short duration of action. To address this issue, this study further explores...
INTRODUCTION: Ropivacaine (RPV), a commonly used local anesthetic, is limited in its effectiveness for postoperative pain management due to its short duration of action. To address this issue, this study further explores the development of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)- PVA nanocarriers designed to extend RPV's release and efficacy. METHODS: PLGA-PVA-RPV nanocarriers were synthesized via an emulsion technique and comprehensively characterized using transmission scanning electron microscopy, Malvern ZS90, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The cytotoxicity of these nanocarriers against HaCaT cells was determined using the Cell Counting Kit-8 viability assay and calcein-acetoxymethyl/ propidium iodide staining. Flow cytometry and scratch assays were used to assess their effects on the HaCaT cell cycle, apoptosis, and migration. RESULTS: The PLGA-PVA-RPV nanocarriers exhibited a spherical morphology, small size (10.90 ± 2.19 nm), uniform distribution, and stable zeta potential (-7.93 ± 0.81 mV). The PLGAPVA- RPV nanoparticles demonstrate excellent biocompatibility; even at a high concentration of 1000 μg/mL, the cell viability remains above 80%, which is significantly higher than that of the free RPV group (67.3%, P < 0.05). Further mechanistic studies showed that PLGA-PVA-RPV nanoparticles induced cell cycle arrest and inhibited cell migration, collectively demonstrating their low toxicity, excellent biocompatibility, and sustained-release potential. DISCUSSION: The PLGA-PVA-RPV nanocarriers demonstrate enhanced efficacy and biocompatibility for prolonged ropivacaine release offering a promising strategy for postoperative pain management. Future work should focus on in vivo validation and parameter optimization to facilitate clinical translation Conclusion: PLGA-PVA-RPV nanocarriers possess optimal physicochemical properties (small size, homogeneity, stability) and superior biosafety, providing a promising strategy for extending RPV's analgesic efficacy. This technology has significant potential to improve postoperative pain management.
Exploring the Potential Role of Phospholipid Complexes in Drug Delivery Systems for Enhanced Applicability.
Rathor S, Rana P, Pal R … +4 more , Sharma A, Singh MP, Joshi M, Vashisth Y
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41572703 · Publisher ↗
The oral route is thought to have the highest patient compliance among the several administration modes. The gastrointestinal tract's sensitivity to environmental changes is the primary issue associated with oral deliver...
The oral route is thought to have the highest patient compliance among the several administration modes. The gastrointestinal tract's sensitivity to environmental changes is the primary issue associated with oral delivery. If the drug is poorly water soluble and fails to penetrate cellular membranes, its bioavailability may be further diminished. A drugphospholipid complex method, which works similarly to the gastrointestinal tract's absorption of food components, could be used to overcome this obstacle. Drug-phospholipid complexes are excellent for oral administration because they are nontoxic and biodegradable. As a result, they are used as emulsifiers, matrix-forming excipients, and solubilizers in medications with limited solubility and permeability. Phospholipids have two different characteristics: high biocompatibility and outstanding amphiphilicity. Phospholipids have a wide range of applications in drug delivery systems, and their specific properties make them ideal to be utilized as important pharmacological excipients. The purpose of this research is to offer a thorough understanding of phospholipids, drug-phospholipid complex-building processes, phospholipids themselves, the mechanism by which they boost drug bioavailability, and some of the formulations' uses in drug delivery systems. Along with highlighting the links between phospholipid properties and applications, it will also explain how different phospholipid species influence medication delivery. The growing volume of current research on the strategy's use to boost drug oral bioavailability demonstrates its importance for effective oral administration.
Unveiling the Therapeutic Potential of Pinostrobin in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease Based on Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction.
Kumar A, Varshney V
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41568515 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of life-threatening conditions characterized by gradual and severe neuronal degeneration, posing a significant global health challenge. Many neurodegenerative diseases...
INTRODUCTION: Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of life-threatening conditions characterized by gradual and severe neuronal degeneration, posing a significant global health challenge. Many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, share identical and recognizable etiologies, such as neuronal degeneration, apoptosis, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, Ca2+ overload, neuroinflammation, protein aggregation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Among these etiologies, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are the primary contributing factors, involving several enzymes and signaling molecules in the underlying mechanism of disease progression. Globally available treatments provide only temporary symptomatic relief with side effects, and yet there is no medication to eradicate the disease-related cause. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Extensive research has explored novel herbal medications offered as neuroprotective against these debilitating conditions, aiming to reverse or halt the disease progression with minimal adverse effects. Pinostrobin is a major bioactive flavonoid primarily isolated from Boesenbergia rotunda (Fingerroot). Established research has reported that pinostrobin exhibits a wide array of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antileukemia, antioxidant, antimicrobial properties, as well as protective effects against mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodegeneration. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Based on preclinical studies, we have summarised the current knowledge of pinostrobin's neuroprotective actions, highlighting its effectiveness in mitigating neuronal damage, preserving synaptic function, reducing oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, protein aggregation, mitochondrial apoptosis, and calcium overload. These mechanisms collectively support its therapeutic potential in modulating the molecular pathways underlying Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. CONCLUSION: This review offers a comprehensive analysis of pinostrobin and its molecular pathways in combating neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting its promising effectiveness as a natural neuroprotective agent in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease by modulating mitochondrial and oxidative stress-mediated pathways.
MAPK-related mRNA and miRNA Expression in LPS-treated Keratinocytes: Implications for Psoriasis Inflammation.
Plata-Babula A, Wójcik M, Głowaczewska A … +7 more , Zmarzły N, Chalcarz M, Kaminiow K, Mitka-Krysiak E, Kuraszewska B, Wieczorek W, Grabarek BO
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41510737 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and excessive keratinocyte proliferation. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway plays a key role in d...
INTRODUCTION: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and excessive keratinocyte proliferation. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway plays a key role in driving inflammation in psoriatic skin. METHODS: This study investigated the expression of MAPK-related messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and their regulatory microRNAs (miRNAs) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated human adult low-calcium high-temperature keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). Differential gene and miRNA expression at 2, 8, and 24 hours post-LPS exposure was analyzed using oligonucleotide microarrays. Selected genes were validated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and protein levels were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Of 248 MAPK-associated mRNAs, 28 showed significant differential expression. Notably, dual specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 2 (MAP2K2), MAP2K7, MAP3K2, and MAPK9 were downregulated, while transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) and interleukin-1 beta (IL1B) were upregulated. Protein-level changes confirmed mRNA findings. Four miRNAs, namely miR-34a, miR-4692a, miR-200-5p, and miR- 1275, exhibited inverse expression trends relative to their predicted targets. DISCUSSION: These results suggest that LPS-induced inflammation causes coordinated dysregulation of MAPK signaling components and their regulatory miRNAs in keratinocytes. The identified miRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for chronic skin inflammation. CONCLUSION: LPS stimulation alters MAPK-related mRNA and protein expression in HaCaT cells and is accompanied by changes in specific regulatory miRNAs. This integrative transcriptomic- proteomic analysis highlights candidate miRNA-mRNA axes relevant to psoriasis pathophysiology and supports further validation in disease-relevant models.
Rewriting the Cardiovascular Transcriptome: Emerging Roles of PIWIInteracting RNAs as Epigenetic Modulators and Precision Biomarkers.
Chen Q, Li S, Jin X
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41508969 · Publisher ↗
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs originally identified in germ cells, are now increasingly recognized as pivotal regulators of gene expression in somatic tissues, including the cardiovascu...
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs originally identified in germ cells, are now increasingly recognized as pivotal regulators of gene expression in somatic tissues, including the cardiovascular system. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading global cause of morbidity and mortality, yet sensitive and specific molecular biomarkers and effective RNA-based therapeutic targets are still lacking. However, compared to microRNAs and lncRNAs, the roles of piRNAs in CVD are only beginning to be elucidated, highlighting an important knowledge gap. The objective of this review was to synthesize current evidence on piRNA functions in cardiovascular biology, with emphasis on disease-specific mechanisms and translational implications. To achieve this, we conducted a literature search in PubMed and Web of Science databases (2015-2025) using the keywords "piRNA" OR "PIWIinteracting RNA" combined with "cardiovascular", "heart failure", "ischemia reperfusion", "myocardial infarction", "aortic valve", and "pulmonary hypertension". This review has not only summarized existing findings, but also highlighted emerging opportunities and challenges for advancing piRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics in cardiovascular medicine.
Levels of Systemic Inflammatory Markers in Women with Cervical Cancer Undergoing Definitive Chemoradiotherapy Depend Primarily on Pre-treatment and Post-teletherapy Tumor Volume, Rather than on the Prescribed Radiation Dose.
Bereza K, Banaś T, Grabarek BO … +4 more , Czerw A, Sigit K, Pluta E, Cipora E
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41508968 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE: Cervical cancer (CC) remains a major global health problem, especially in advanced stages. Systemic inflammatory markers such as the neutrophil-tolymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte rat...
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE: Cervical cancer (CC) remains a major global health problem, especially in advanced stages. Systemic inflammatory markers such as the neutrophil-tolymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) have been proposed as prognostic indicators. This study evaluated treatment-related alterations in these markers and their associations with clinical factors. METHODS: In this prospective study, 106 women with FIGO stage IB-IVA CC treated with dCRT were analyzed. Peripheral blood was collected one day before treatment and within three days after teletherapy. Inflammatory indices were derived from complete blood counts, and tumor volumes were assessed by MRI. Associations with clinical and treatment parameters were explored using appropriate statistical methods. RESULTS: After teletherapy, NLR increased significantly (median 4.86 vs. 3.31, p = 0.022), PLR rose markedly (377.5 vs. 198.8, p < 0.001), and LMR decreased (1.35 vs. 2.49, p < 0.001). SII changes were not significant. Baseline indices correlated with pre-treatment tumor volume, while post-therapy NLR and LMR were associated with post-teletherapy tumor volume but not with radiation dose, histological grade, or FIGO stage. An exploratory Kaplan-Meier analysis suggested poorer outcomes with elevated NLR and PLR, although differences were not statistically significant. DISCUSSION: Observed alterations in NLR, PLR, and LMR suggest these markers reflect tumor burden and immune response dynamics during dCRT. CONCLUSION: NLR, PLR, and LMR undergo significant changes during dCRT, largely reflecting tumor burden rather than treatment parameters, supporting their role as dynamic biomarkers in CC.
NK Cell-Based Immunotherapy: Pioneering a New Era in Cancer Treatment.
Ma C, Zhang S, Ding Y … +1 more , Wang X
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41503909 · Publisher ↗
Natural killer (NK) cells are essential cytotoxic effectors of the innate immune system with significant therapeutic advantages in cancer immunotherapy, primarily due to their intrinsic MHC-unrestricted cytotoxicity and...
Natural killer (NK) cells are essential cytotoxic effectors of the innate immune system with significant therapeutic advantages in cancer immunotherapy, primarily due to their intrinsic MHC-unrestricted cytotoxicity and capacity for antigen-independent tumor recognition. Compared to T cell-based immunotherapies, NK cell-centered strategies facilitate precision immunotherapy through chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering while demonstrating superior allogeneic compatibility. This inherent resistance to graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) circumvents the limitations of autologous cell sourcing and enables "off-the-shelf" therapeutic availability. This review systematically outlines the developmental biology and functional characteristics of NK cells, their diverse cellular origins, and the dynamic regulatory mechanisms governed by the balance of activating and inhibitory receptors. Furthermore, it highlights recent advances in the clinical translation of engineered NK cell therapies, including CAR-NK cells, and discusses their therapeutic applications in cancer treatment.
Development of a Universal Forward Primer and Species-Specific Reverse Primers for Porcine, Canine, and Murine Gene Detection using SYBR Green Multiplex Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction.
Imanuel H, Rahmasari R, Annisa S … +9 more , Raekiansyah M, Malau J, Jatmika C, Yanuar A, Jaswir I, Suryadi H, Putro EW, Makau JN, Watanabe K
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41503908 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The growing awareness regarding animal-derived content in pharmaceuticals has led to an increased demand for labeling of animal-derived ingredients. Multiplex qPCR can amplify more than one target gene by c...
INTRODUCTION: The growing awareness regarding animal-derived content in pharmaceuticals has led to an increased demand for labeling of animal-derived ingredients. Multiplex qPCR can amplify more than one target gene by combining two or more primer sets in one reaction. Thus, this study focused on developing a universal forward primer and specific reverse primers targeting 16S rRNA for the simultaneous detection of Murine, Porcine, Canine, and Murine. METHODS: These primers were evaluated in silico, followed by in vitro optimization using intercalating dye-based qPCR for detecting the presence of these genes in total DNA extracted from food-based meat and pharmaceutical products. RESULT: These primers successfully produced amplicons in multiplex qPCR with distinct melting temperatures. Additionally, the developed primers in multiplex qPCR were capable of identifying Murine, Canine, and Porcine DNA at concentrations of 10-100 pg with an efficiency of 90- 110%. Repeatability testing revealed a variance of less than 10% for both intra- and inter-assay. Furthermore, the new primer combination successfully detected DNA remnants in positive porcine pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. DISCUSSION: The developed primers were able to differentiate animal species concentrations found in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics with good repeatability. However, porcine peaks in sample analysis were still low due to the low yield of DNA extraction using a food-grade DNA extraction kit Conclusion: These results suggest that the new primer combination, consisting of the universal forward primer and species-specific reverse primers, has the potential to serve as an alternative assay for differentiating canine, porcine, and murine DNA using multiplex intercalating dyebased qPCR.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Entinostat Exerts Anti-NSCLC Effects Through the EGFR Signaling Pathway and MDM2-p53 Axis.
He S, Zhang A, Sui C … +5 more , Zhang N, Li M, Li J, Zhou S, Qian Y
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 Jan · PMID 41503907 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is among the most aggressive malignancies threatening human health. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have been shown to suppress epidermal growth factor receptor (EG...
INTRODUCTION: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is among the most aggressive malignancies threatening human health. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have been shown to suppress epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling, making them promising candidates for NSCLC therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Entinostat on NSCLC. METHODS: The anti-proliferative effect of Entinostat was assessed using MTT assays, with four other HDAC inhibitors (the pan-HDAC inhibitor SAHA and selective HDAC inhibitors BRD73954, BG45, and NKL22) as controls. EGFR expression and phosphorylation of STAT3, AKT, and p38 were measured in vitro and in vivo via Western blot. Apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry, and expression of apoptosis regulators p53 and p21 was assessed by Western blot. The in vivo anti-tumor activity of Entinostat was evaluated using NSCLC xenograft models. RESULTS: Entinostat exhibited more potent anti-NSCLC activity than the other HDAC inhibitors in H460 and H1975 cell lines, with IC50 values of 0.69±0.03 μM and 0.20±0.01 μM, respectively. Western blot analysis demonstrated that Entinostat reduced EGFR expression and decreased phosphorylation of STAT3, AKT, and p38, indicating suppression of EGFR signaling both in vitro and in vivo. In xenograft models, treatment with 40 mg/kg Entinostat significantly inhibited tumor growth, though it also affected mouse body weight. CONCLUSION: Entinostat demonstrates strong anti-NSCLC activity by suppressing EGFR expression and downstream signaling, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent.
Flavonoids in Autoimmune Diseases: Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Future Directions.
Simone W, Salvamani S, Koh RY … +1 more , Gunasekaran B
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2025 Nov · PMID 41293950 · Publisher ↗
Autoimmune diseases remain one of the top leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. While several first-line therapies like corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and DMARDs are proven effective, their prolonged...
Autoimmune diseases remain one of the top leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. While several first-line therapies like corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and DMARDs are proven effective, their prolonged use often leads to drug-induced complications. Researchers are increasingly drawn to natural compounds, which are more accessible, inexpensive, and safer. Among these interventions are flavonoids, which are natural polyphenols derived from plants. The goal of autoimmune disease treatment is to. Flavonoids such as quercetin, EGCG balance effector and regulatory immune function to prevent autoimmunity. Flavonoids such as quercetin, EGCG, and silymarin exert immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities in this context by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and downregulating proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. For this reason, flavonoids have gained attention as promising adjuvants to conventional therapies, especially in preclinical studies. However, robust clinical evidence remains limited, and further trials are necessary to validate these therapeutic claims. In this review, we summarize the newest research on the specific molecular mechanisms underlying flavonoids' therapeutic effects and their clinical use in certain autoimmune diseases.
Latest Advancements in Biotherapeutics.
Rojekar S
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2026 · PMID 41293949 · Publisher ↗
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Towards Pharmaceutical Industry 5.0: Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery and Development.
Jayakrishnan A, Phang HC, Ying Tan VX … +8 more , Kee PE, Loke YH, Mod Razif MRF, Yee KM, Md Noh SM, Ming LC, Gan SH, Liew KB
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2025 Nov · PMID 41185503 · Publisher ↗
The pharmaceutical industry is transforming with the advent of Industry 5.0, which is marked by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into drug discovery and development. AI technologies, such as machine learning, dee...
The pharmaceutical industry is transforming with the advent of Industry 5.0, which is marked by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into drug discovery and development. AI technologies, such as machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing, revolutionize the traditional drug development pipeline by accelerating the identification of novel drug candidates, optimizing clinical trial designs, and personalizing therapies. Moreover, AI models enhance the prediction of drug efficacy, toxicity, and patient responses, minimizing the risk of failure of clinical trials. Nevertheless, despite these advancements, challenges remain in integrating AI into the pharmaceutical workflow, including data quality, regulatory concerns, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. This review explores the current state of AI applications in drug discovery, drug formulation and optimization, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, drug manufacturing and quality control, regulatory compliance and pharmacovigilance. Overall, AI is poised to redefine the landscape of drug discovery and development, fostering a new era of precision medicine and transforming patient outcomes globally, especially in the era of Industry 5.0.
Enhancement of Fowlicidin-1's Therapeutic Efficacy: Mitigation of Toxicity via a Chitosan Cross-Linked Nanocarrier System.
Almaaytah A, Bataineh B, Mhaidat NM … +1 more , Sabi S
Curr Pharm Biotechnol · 2025 Oct · PMID 41177799 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The rise of antimicrobial resistance, coupled with the declining discovery of new antibiotics, has intensified the need for alternative therapeutics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as Fowlicidin-1, off...
INTRODUCTION: The rise of antimicrobial resistance, coupled with the declining discovery of new antibiotics, has intensified the need for alternative therapeutics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as Fowlicidin-1, offer broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity but are limited by their cytotoxic effects, including hemolysis of human erythrocytes. METHOD: In this study, Fowlicidin-1 was encapsulated into chitosan nanoparticles formed via ionic gelation. The formulation was optimized for encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and surface charge. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against resistant bacterial strains, while cytotoxicity was assessed using hemolysis and cell viability assays. RESULTS: The chitosan nano-carrier system effectively preserved the antimicrobial potency of Fowlicidin-1 and significantly reduced its cytotoxicity. Encapsulated Fowlicidin-1 demonstrated reduced hemolytic activity and improved safety compared to the free peptide. DISCUSSION: Nano-encapsulation using a chitosan-based delivery system successfully mitigates the cytotoxic limitations of AMPs without compromising antimicrobial efficacy. This approach may enhance the clinical applicability of AMPs as alternatives to traditional antibiotics. CONCLUSION: The developed chitosan-based cross-linked nanocarrier system offers a promising strategy to reduce the cytotoxicity of AMPs, supporting their potential as safer and more effective antimicrobial therapeutics in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
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