Pancreatic cancer is an exceptionally aggressive form of cancer with a poor prognosis, primarily due to several factors, one of which is the significant development of immune resistance. Despite new medical perceptions o...Pancreatic cancer is an exceptionally aggressive form of cancer with a poor prognosis, primarily due to several factors, one of which is the significant development of immune resistance. Despite new medical perceptions of the interaction between the immune system and tumour, experts have continually explored the molecular mechanisms of immune resistance in pancreatic cancer over the years but have not yet reached a complete understanding. Studying immune resistance is also fundamental because it gives us a better understanding of how to develop highly effective, individualised immunotherapeutic approaches. However, various characteristics can be used to describe the degree of immunological resistance. In the case of pancreatic cancer, the Tumour Microenvironment (TME) is specially structured in a way that it consists of stroma abundantly. Concurrently, it can regulate the secretion and expression of various immunosuppressants, like programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), adenosine, and inosine that impairs the anti-tumour response attributed from the immune system, along with growth factors that contributes to the development of tumour growth. Besides, oncogenic pathways, such as TP53 and KRAS mutation and immunosuppressive cell populations, including T-regulating cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells collaboratively suppress the immune activity, thereby inducing immune resistance. These complexities present significant challenges in designing effective treatments. Immune checkpoints and mechanisms such as PDL1- mediated MHC-1 downregulation, galectins, autophagy, TP53, and P2RX1-negative neutrophils also contribute to immune resistance. Hence, this review summarises the current knowledge regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms of immune resistance in pancreatic cancer, along with several existing molecular therapeutics and approaches to overcome these barriers.
Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global health challenge, largely due to the complex nature of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Its early detection and effective management are heavily reliant on advanced diagnostic...Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global health challenge, largely due to the complex nature of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Its early detection and effective management are heavily reliant on advanced diagnostic methods. New drug delivery systems and repurposing existing drugs show great promise in improving TB treatment. This study explores the progress and hurdles in developing anti-TB drugs, focusing on those currently in clinical trials. Additionally, innovative approaches like immunotherapy, combination therapy, and adjunct therapy, which include the use of phytochemicals, are examined for their potential to enhance treatment outcomes and tackle drug resistance. These innovative approaches could be the key to the future of the fight against TB. It also highlights how these strategies could accelerate TB treatment. It incorporates public health strategies for preventing TB transmission and ensuring patients adhere to treatments. By addressing these key areas, this work aims to contribute to the global fight against TB and improve the lives of those affected by the disease.
The term "Microbiota" refers to the vast array of symbiotic microorganisms that coexist with their hosts in practically all organs. However, the microbiota must obtain nutrition and minerals from its host to survive; ins...The term "Microbiota" refers to the vast array of symbiotic microorganisms that coexist with their hosts in practically all organs. However, the microbiota must obtain nutrition and minerals from its host to survive; instead, they produce beneficial compounds to protect the host and regulate the immune system. Conversely, pathogenic bacteria utilize their enzymes to independently gain sustenance through an invasive process without almost any beneficial compound production. One of the fully equipped pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus, is present in nearly every organ and possesses a variety of defense and invasion systems including an enzyme, a mineral collection system, a system for detecting environmental conditions, and broad toxins. The microbiota properly can defend its kingdom against S. aureus; however, if necessary, the host immune system is alerted against the pathogen, so this system also acts against the pathogen, a game that can ultimately lead to the death of the pathogen. However, S. aureus can change the host's conditions in its favor by changing the host's conditions and causing inflammation, a condition that cannot be tolerated by the microbiota. In this review, we will explain how microbiota defend against S. aureus.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present research was to assess the protective role of coffee in thioacetamide-induced nephrotoxicity. METHODS: The experimental period consisted of 18 weeks, divided into two phases. Four ex...OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present research was to assess the protective role of coffee in thioacetamide-induced nephrotoxicity. METHODS: The experimental period consisted of 18 weeks, divided into two phases. Four experimental groups were designed, each consisting of six rats. Group I was considered an untreated control group. Groups II and III were intraperitoneally injected with thioacetamide at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight twice a week for twelve weeks during the first phase of the study. In the second phase, group II received saline, and group III and group IV received 0.4 mg/Kg of coffee daily for six weeks. The biochemical analysis was evaluated by the estimation of plasma urea, uric acid, creatinine, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and catalase. RESULTS: Thiocetamide-induced nephrotoxicity resulted in the reduction of body weight, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, and an increase in kidney weight, plasma urea, uric acid, creatinine, and tissue malondialdehyde. Supplementation with coffee effectively increased body weight while reducing elevated levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine, and MDA. It also restored SOD and catalase activities in Group III (TAA + Coffee-treated). CONCLUSION: This work shows that coffee can protect the kidneys against thioacetamide-induced nephrotoxicity in a rat model. It highlights the antioxidant potential of coffee by its ability to restore enzymatic antioxidant activity (SOD and catalase), lower oxidative stress markers (MDA), and enhance renal function measures (urea, creatinine, and uric acid). The study fills a significant gap by demonstrating coffee as a viable natural therapeutic agent for oxidative stressinduced kidney impairment, providing an alternative to conventional treatments with fewer side effects.
Cubosomes, nanostructured lipid-based carriers, exhibit a promising potential in drug delivery due to their unique structure, which integrates amphiphilic lipids and polymer-based stabilizers. This review examines the sc...Cubosomes, nanostructured lipid-based carriers, exhibit a promising potential in drug delivery due to their unique structure, which integrates amphiphilic lipids and polymer-based stabilizers. This review examines the scientific principles of digestion relevant to cubosome function, their structural and compositional aspects, and various processing methods. We also explore potential distribution pathways, drug delivery strategies, and therapeutic applications, including cancer therapy, antimicrobial therapy, vaccine delivery, ocular and dermatological applications, and transdermal delivery. Notably, some challenges still hinder the clinical application of cubosome products, which this review addresses. This paper aims to provide an in-depth discussion on cubosomes, encompassing their composition, theories, processing techniques, and the diverse administration routes that make them a versatile option for targeted drug delivery. A bibliographic review was conducted using major electronic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Google Scholar, Springer, and Wiley) along with offline and online academic libraries for comprehensive data collection. Cubosomes, as innovative lipid-based nanotechnology similar to liposomes and niosomes, possess significant potential due to their unique bioadhesive properties, thermodynamic stability, and capability to encapsulate a variety of compounds. Composed typically of glyceryl monooleate and Phytantriol with a stabilizer, cubosomes enable sustained and targeted release, suggesting a broad range of applications. Further advancements are needed to address current limitations in their practical application.
Current developments in nanotechnology provide an alternative therapy for various diseases by utilizing customized medicine. Among some of the nanoscale superstructures made of the hydrophilic or amphiphilic polymeric ma...Current developments in nanotechnology provide an alternative therapy for various diseases by utilizing customized medicine. Among some of the nanoscale superstructures made of the hydrophilic or amphiphilic polymeric matrix are nanogels. At the same time, hydrogels are the first biomaterials created for insertion into the human body and have several biological uses. Owing to the advantages of nanogels and hydrogel, including biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, controlled drug release, and intelligent drug delivery, another macromolecule called dendrimer is incorporated into the nanogel and hydrogel for synergistic effects. In this review, we focus on the applications of dendrimer-based hydrogels and nanogels as carriers for targeted delivery of drugs. We also present the synthetic processes, different characterization methods, and challenges in incorporating the dendrimer and the drug during the preparation of nanogel and hydrogel. In recent years, the most widely used dendrimers for hydrogel formation have been reported to be poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM), phosphorous, peptide, and polyester dendrimers. Dendrimer-based hydrogel and nanogels show various applications in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, such as glaucoma, cancer, and microbial diseases. The self-cleaving mechanism of dendrimer hydrogels (DH) leads to enhanced and sustained delivery of the drugs in the treatment of cancer. Recent studies show the use of doxorubicinconjugated nanogel-based PAMAM dendrimer as a capable nanocarrier for the delivery of drugs in the treatment of cancer.
BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome encompasses conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM), which has become increasingly prevalent. Chemically synthesized medications are commonly used to mitigate the effects of DM and its co...BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome encompasses conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM), which has become increasingly prevalent. Chemically synthesized medications are commonly used to mitigate the effects of DM and its complications; however, these often result in undesirable side effects, including weight gain, digestive issues, and heart failure. OBJECTIVE: This review highlights the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds and antidiabetic plants that possess proven anti-diabetic properties. Focusing on phytomedicines also explores their possible mechanisms of action and positions this work relative to current reviews in the field. METHODS: A comprehensive literature analysis was conducted, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds in anti-diabetic plants. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were thoroughly searched to identify studies investigating the anti-diabetic properties and mechanisms of action of plant-derived bioactive compounds. Inclusion criteria focused on studies evaluating the pharmacological effects of herbal medicines, plant extracts, and isolated bioactive compounds on diabetes management. RESULTS: Therapeutic plants, as sources of anti-diabetic compounds, offer significant advantages. They are affordable, exhibit minimal or no adverse effects, and do not necessitate strict dietary restrictions or intense exercise regimens. The integrated insights underscore the potential of phytomedicines to address limitations in current diabetes management strategies. CONCLUSION: The unique focus on phytomedicines positions this review as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians. Detailing mechanisms and evidence supporting the efficacy of these compounds, guides the development of innovative strategies for identifying and utilizing bioactive compounds in effective diabetes management.
BACKGROUND: Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) is a major cause of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and lacks effective treatments. Tangmaikang Granules (TMK), a multi-herb traditional Chinese medicine formulation, have shown p...BACKGROUND: Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) is a major cause of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and lacks effective treatments. Tangmaikang Granules (TMK), a multi-herb traditional Chinese medicine formulation, have shown potential in managing DKD. However, the precise active components, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic advantages of TMK remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study tests the hypothesis that TMK granules exert protective effects on DKD by targeting multiple pathways involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in podocytes through a multi-targeted approach. The aim was to identify TMK's bioactive components, evaluate its therapeutic potential, and uncover its molecular mechanisms in DKD. METHODS: The bioactive constituents in TMK were determined through ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Drug targets were identified using SwissTargetPrediction and SuperPred, whereas DKD-associated targets were obtained from the GeneCards, DisGeNET, OMIM, and TTD databases. A Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and key targets were identified via topological analysis. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations were performed to evaluate stable binding interactions. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to uncover relevant signaling pathways. TMK's effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in podocytes were assessed using CCK-8, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, ELISA, and Western blot assays. RESULTS: Thirty active compounds and 384 potential therapeutic targets were identified, with eight key targets. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed TMK's involvement in AGE-RAGE, EGFR, HIF-1, and apoptosis pathways, affecting inflammatory cytokine responses and oxidative stress. In vitro experiments demonstrated that TMK significantly reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in podocytes by inhibiting the MAPK and NF-κB pathways. CONCLUSION: TMK granules target DKD through a multi-component, multi-target strategy, effectively mitigating oxidative stress and suppressing inflammatory and apoptotic pathways. This study integrates advanced computational and experimental methods, demonstrating TMK's unique therapeutic potential and providing a robust foundation for its clinical application in DKD management.
UNLABELLED: The article has been withdrawn at the request of the editor of the journal Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. The publishers apologize to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caus...UNLABELLED: The article has been withdrawn at the request of the editor of the journal Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. The publishers apologize to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused. The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php BENTHAM SCIENCE DISCLAIMER: It is a condition of publication that manuscripts submitted to this journal have not been published and will not be simultaneously submitted or published elsewhere. Furthermore, any data, illustration, structure or table that has been published elsewhere must be reported, and copyright permission for reproduction must be obtained. Plagiarism is strictly forbidden, and by submitting the article for publication the authors agree that the publishers have the legal right to take appropriate action against the authors, if plagiarism or fabricated information is discovered. By submitting a manuscript the authors agree that the copyright of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
BACKGROUND: Aspirin is frequently employed for the prevention of cardiovascular events, but its clinical utility is hindered by the risk of severe gastrointestinal injury when taken orally. Fufanglongxuejie capsules (FFL...BACKGROUND: Aspirin is frequently employed for the prevention of cardiovascular events, but its clinical utility is hindered by the risk of severe gastrointestinal injury when taken orally. Fufanglongxuejie capsules (FFLXJ), a Chinese patent medicine known for promoting wound healing and alleviating congestion and pain, may offer a promising solution to this clinical challenge. METHODS: Using network pharmacology, candidate targets of FFLXJ, gastrointestinal disorders, intersection targets, and associated signaling pathways were examined. Prior to the creation of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MI/R) models, male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were orally administered FFLXJ and/or aspirin for a consecutive month. Subsequently, serum motilin (MTL), gastrin (GAS), HE staining, transmission electron microscopy analysis, and western blot analysis were performed on the blood samples or gastric tissues. Molecular docking analysis on core targets and relative compounds was conducted using Discovery Studio software. The expressions of core targets were verified by Western blot. RESULTS: Compared with aspirin-treated MI/R rats, FFLXJ restored downregulated serum MTL and GAS levels and lessened aspirin-induced gastrointestinal lesions. Network pharmacology research revealed that the top 4 core targets were TNF, IL-10, PTGS2, and VEGFA. In MI/R rats, aspirin treatment markedly increased the level of stomach IL-10, while FFLXJ administration decreased the expression of PTGS2 and IL-10 compared with aspirin-treated group. CONCLUSION: Oral aspirin harmed the gastrointestinal mucosa in MI/R rats; however, FFLXJ was able to mitigate the damage. The protective property of FFLXJ was related to the regulation of inflammation.
INTRODUCTION: Rapid spread of antimicrobial drug resistance is alarming and demands a sustainable solution. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles can pave the way for the development of adjuvants that can help overcome...INTRODUCTION: Rapid spread of antimicrobial drug resistance is alarming and demands a sustainable solution. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles can pave the way for the development of adjuvants that can help overcome bacterial drug resistance. METHODS: In the current study, green synthesis of silver nanoparticles utilizing pea (Pisum sativum) peels and their evaluation against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens has been proposed. Pea peels were extracted and analyzed for antioxidant potential by non-enzymatic DPPH assay. The extract was used to prepare silver nanoparticles (gAgNPs) characterized using UV-VIS spectroscopy, SEM, FTIR, and zeta sizer, and evaluated for antibacterial activity. RESULTS: The SEM showed that the gAgNPs were spherical with a size of 59.24 nm ± 0.3, and the zeta sizer gave a PDI of 0.2. As adjuvants, these gAgNPs in combination with vancomycin showed a superior antibacterial activity against vancomycin-resistant (zone of inhibition= 66 mm ± 0.41) and vancomycin-resistant P. aeruginosa (35 mm ± 1.41) as compared to vancomycin. Hemolysis was IC= 998.44 μg/mL, creating a therapeutic window for IC50 =5 μg/mL, effective against human pathogens. CONCLUSION: This study suggests these gAgNPs could be a good lead to work as adjuvants with vancomycin against vancomycin-resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative clinical bacteria and thus warrants further studies.
BACKGROUND: Bibliometrics has been applied to the study of tumor image segmentation, which can indicate the current research hotspots and trends. METHODS: In this study, bibliometric analyses were performed on data retri...BACKGROUND: Bibliometrics has been applied to the study of tumor image segmentation, which can indicate the current research hotspots and trends. METHODS: In this study, bibliometric analyses were performed on data retrieved from the Web of Science database. A total of 3,377 articles on the application of tumor image segmentation from January 1, 2003, to October 9, 2024, were analyzed for the characteristics of the articles, including the number of yearly publications, country/region, institution, journal, author, keywords, and references. Visualising co-authorship, co-citation, and co-occurrence analysis with VOSviewer. RESULTS: The annual publication volume of tumor image segmentation literature shows that from the first time of more than 100 articles in 2016, the publication volume of literature in this field has surged, reaching 576 articles by 2023. Mainland China is ranked first in terms of publication volume (n=1,356). Saudi Arabia ranks first in average publication year (n=2021.96). IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging was the journal with the highest average number of citations. The Chinese Academy of Sciences (n=78) was the most prolific institution, while Harvard University was the most prestigious, with a total number of citations and an average number of citations of 3,190 and 213, respectively. In terms of keywords, co-occurrence analysis of 107 keywords with a frequency of more than 30 times produced four clusters: (1) methods of image segmentation, (2) applications of image segmentation, (3) image segmentation modelled on CT, (4) image segmentation modelled on MRI. Transformer, Attention Mechanism, and U-Net are the latest keywords. The analysis of keywords helps scholars understand and identify the current research hotspots and research directions. CONCLUSION: Within the last 20 years, the number of articles on the application of tumor image segmentation has increased steadily. From U-Net to MAMBA, many methods for tumor image segmentation have been proposed, and the limitations of models and algorithms are becoming increasingly smaller, which demonstrates the importance of advances in tumor image segmentation technology for disease prevention and monitoring. It presents a strong connection between countries/regions and authors, which reflects the global interest and support for the development of this field. This study shows global trends, research hotspots, and emerging topics in this field and reviews some of the knowledge about tumor image segmentation applications from past studies. And it will provide good research guidelines for researchers in this field.
One of the deadliest and most challenging tumors in the body is Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). The Most aggressive kinds of brain tumors pose multiple challenges in their treatment due to several barriers (BBB and BCSF)....One of the deadliest and most challenging tumors in the body is Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). The Most aggressive kinds of brain tumors pose multiple challenges in their treatment due to several barriers (BBB and BCSF). Conventional treatments show poor efficacy in the treatment owing to poor penetrability through the blood-brain barrier and extreme toxicity in the brain. Moreover, the prognosis and diagnosis of GBM are critical, as they can lead to a fatal outcome.The current state-of-the-art review emphasizes the novel theranostic nanoparticles, which are significantly effective in treating the GBM. The most effective nanocarriers are lipid-based (Liposomes, Solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carrier, nanoemulsion), polymeric (polymeric micelles, dendrimers, quantum dots, exosomes, and hydrogels), metallic (Gold, Silver, Platinum), inorganic (iron oxide, mesoporous silica, copper oxide, boron oxide, Gadolinium, Selenium, and Zinc oxide NPs), carbon-based (Carbon nanotubes and graphene oxide) and others (protein-based NPs, Cubosomes, Polymersosomes). These nanoparticle-loaded antitumor agents show good penetration across the barriers and improve survival rates compared to conventional ones. Lipid-based nanoparticles are preferred for providing high biocompatibility, biodegradability, and sustained release action. Polymeric nanocarriers are preferred for facilitating long-acting therapy, and patient comfort, mostly for their biosensing features. Carbon-based nanomaterials are gaining interest for their theranostic action. The most promising outcomes in clinical practices are shown in Liposomes, PLGAbased NPs, Gold NPs, hydrogels, iron oxide NPs, albumin-based NPs, etc.
BACKGROUND: T-cell exhaustion (TEX) is one reason for immunotherapy resistance among cancers, but the specific mechanism and influencing factors of TEX in diffuse large Bcell lymphoma (DLBCL) are not fully understood. Th...BACKGROUND: T-cell exhaustion (TEX) is one reason for immunotherapy resistance among cancers, but the specific mechanism and influencing factors of TEX in diffuse large Bcell lymphoma (DLBCL) are not fully understood. This study aimed to establish a TEX signature for predicting the prognosis of DLBCL and investigate the immune characteristics related to the TEX signature. METHODS: The gene expression data of DLBCL were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. Prognostic TEX related genes were selected by Cox regression analysis for prognostic signature (TEX score) construction. The correlation of risk grouping with immune cell infiltration was analyzed by CIBERSORT and ssGSEA. Molecular mechanisms between high and low TEX score groups were explored by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). RESULTS: A total of 115 differentially expressed TEX-related genes were selected, and 12 were prognosis-related after Cox regression. Following Ninesignature genes, including TRIM6, BIRC3, CTSC, GBP3, IRF3, TRIM22, IFI30, TRIM25 and BAG4 were identified to construct a TEX score. The receiver operator characteristic curve curves suggested that the model presented high predictive precision. A nomogram was established, which also had good prediction performance in survival prognosis. The composition of immune cells in the two risk groups was significantly different. GSEA identified 33 hallmarks between two risk groups, which were associated with immune cells infiltration and inflammation. CONCLUSION: The TEX score has prognosis-predicting value for DLBCL and might be a valuable biomarker to guide clinical decision-making for patients with DLBCL.
Ultrasound is an indispensable technology in the biomedical field. With the continuous integration and development of ultrasound medical technology, its potential application value in disease diagnosis and treatment has...Ultrasound is an indispensable technology in the biomedical field. With the continuous integration and development of ultrasound medical technology, its potential application value in disease diagnosis and treatment has become increasingly prominent. As the technical core, novel multifunctional ultrasound theranostic agents have been the main focus of research. Here, we summarized various types of multifunctional ultrasound agents, presented their latest applications in important areas, and discussed subsequent research priorities. We hope that with the combination of new technologies, multifunctional ultrasound agents can play a greater role in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, further promoting the extensive and in-depth development of ultrasound medical technology.
BACKGROUND: Diet-related chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and cancer, are largely preventable with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Therefore, searching for dietary s...BACKGROUND: Diet-related chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and cancer, are largely preventable with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Therefore, searching for dietary supplements rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals for the prevention and/or management of diet-related chronic diseases is an important strategy for controlling these diseases to reduce healthcare costs and sustain development. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the current research was to prepare dietary supplements from avocado fruit pulp [AFPDS] and evaluate their potential against various diet-related chronic diseases through in-vitro, in-vivo, and molecular docking studies. METHODS: Volatile compounds of avocado pulp were evaluated, and the total phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and phytosterols profiles of the AFPDS were determined. RESULTS: D-limonene, methyl propanoate, isobutyl propanoate and pentanol were the principal volatile compounds in the avocado pulp. Total phenolic and flavonoids were present in the AFPDS by 9.65 mg GAE/g and 6.87 mg CE/g, respectively. Chlorogenic acid and cinnamic acid were the major and minor identified phenolic compounds in AFPDS, respectively. Oleic acid [75.06%] and β-Sitosterol [2.19%] were the highest fatty acid and phytosterol present in AFPDS, respectively. AFPDS recorded anti-inflammatory activity against nitric oxide [NO] production in RAW264.7 macrophages by 98.2μg/ml [IC50] and 164.8μg/ml [IC90]. AFPDS showed significant anti-inflammatory activity against carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. AFPDS showed antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS by 8.67 mg TE/g and 6.14 mg TE/g. AFPDS possessed anti-cancer activity against MCF7 and HPG2 at10.8μg/ml and 40.5μg/ml, respectively. AFPDS exhibited anti-diabetic activity as an inhibitor of α-amylase and α-glucosidase by26.35±0.77μg/ml and 0.55±0.163mg/ml, respectively. Molecular docking studies revealed high binding affinity of different active compounds present in AFPDS with cyclooxygenase- 2, glutathione peroxidase, α-glucosidase and B-cell lymphoma-extra-large proteins. CONCLUSION: AFPDS can be considered a new agent for the prevention and treatment of dietrelated chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cancer, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-diabetic activities, as demonstrated through in-vivo, in-vitro, and molecular docking studies.
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is a multifactorial neurological condition characterized by progressive loss of memory and learning, uncontrollable movement, difficulty processing visual image...Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is a multifactorial neurological condition characterized by progressive loss of memory and learning, uncontrollable movement, difficulty processing visual images, and impairment of reasoning and/or judgment skills. Although the exact cause of AD is still unknown, recent evidence suggests that environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors are common contributors to the disease's progression. Pathophysiological features of AD include amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation, abnormal deposition of neuritic plaques and neurofibrile tangles, cholinergic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress burden along with mitochondrial dysfunction. There are currently no pharmaceutical methods or medications that can stop the progression of a disease. More attention is now being paid to natural products, herbal medicines, and different bioactive phytoconstituents, particularly flavonoids, as alternative therapies and useful resources for finding new drug candidates for the treatment of AD-like symptoms. A dietary isoflavone, biochanin-A, which is isolated from the leaves and stems of L. (family: Leguminosae), possesses remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties along with cognitive-enhancing effects. Biochanin-A exhibits notable neuroprotective effects by reducing Aβ deposition, decreasing apoptosis, and preventing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α, IL- 1β, and NO. Various preclinical reports explore the pharmacological role of biochanin-A against experimentally-induced AD and highlight that it can alter numerous signaling pathways, including Nrf2, NF-κB, JNK, MAPK, and Bcl-2/Bax. The present review article summarizes the numerous research studies that have evaluated the role of biochanin-A for dementia associated with AD. As part of a comprehensive program, biochanin-A has very exceptional potential to prevent and treat AD-related cognitive impairment. It is envisaged that these potential chemical moieties can be employed in the drug discovery process to identify efficacious and safe therapy for the treatments for AD-like manifestation.
INTRODUCTION: The use of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) in promoting tissue repair and anti-aging has been hindered by several challenges, including its large molecular weight, susceptibility to decomposition, low bioava...INTRODUCTION: The use of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) in promoting tissue repair and anti-aging has been hindered by several challenges, including its large molecular weight, susceptibility to decomposition, low bioavailability, and poor stability and skin permeability. Liposome formulation technology has emerged as a promising method in cosmetics, enhancing the penetration and protection of active ingredients. METHOD: In this study, a PDRN-loaded nanoliposomal (PDRN-NL) formulation, which exhibited an average particle size of 125 ± 1 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.12 ± 0.02, a zeta potential of -52.6 ± 0.8 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 81.3%. The stability of the PDRN-NL and its formulations was assessed using the Turbiscan Lab stability analyzer, which predicted a shelf life of up to three years. Furthermore, the in vitro permeability of the PDRN-NL was evaluated using the Franz diffusion cell method. RESULTS: Results indicated that the cumulative skin permeation of PDRN-NL over 24 hours was 1.22 times higher than that of free PDRN, with skin retention of PDRN-NL being 1.40 times greater. The in vitro release studies demonstrated that liposomal encapsulation not only enhanced permeability but also provided a sustained-release effect and improved stability of PDRN. CONCLUSION: Overall, the properties of liposome-encapsulated PDRN were significantly enhanced, presenting a novel solution for the incorporation of PDRN in the development of skincare products.
BACKGROUND: The traditional Chinese recipe "Erjing Formula", composed of HuangJing and GouQi, is recognized for its tonifying and revitalizing properties, but the active components responsible for these effects are poorl...BACKGROUND: The traditional Chinese recipe "Erjing Formula", composed of HuangJing and GouQi, is recognized for its tonifying and revitalizing properties, but the active components responsible for these effects are poorly explored. This study investigated the antifatigue effects of Erjing Formula polysaccharides (EJFP). METHODS: Mice were treated with EJFP and subjected to weight-loaded swimming tests. Biochemicals were measured, while muscle changes were analyzed by H&E staining and protein expression by Western blotting. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to investigate the anti-fatigue effects of EJFP through weight-loaded swimming tests in mice. METHODS: SPF-grade healthy male rat species KM mice were gavaged with EJFP and then subjected to a weight-loaded swimming test. Later, the levels of various biochemical indicators, including blood lactate (BLA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), muscle glycogen (MG), and hepatic glycogen (HG), were measured. The muscle tissue slices were analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin H&E) staining. Additionally, the expression levels of Kelch-like ECH-associated Protein 1 (Keap-1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the muscle tissue of each group were detected using Western Blotting. RESULTS: EJFP (Erjing Formula Polysaccharides) significantly increased swimming time (p ≤ 0.01), reduced oxidative stress markers and detrimental metabolites (BLA, BUN, and MDA), and elevated SOD, MG, and HG levels. Histologically, it improved muscle integrity. Nrf2 expression increased, indicating a relationship between antioxidant effects and antifatigue activity. CONCLUSION: EJFP demonstrated anti-fatigue effects, mainly at moderate doses, by modulating the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and improving glycogen and antioxidant levels. This is the first study to document the anti-fatigue effects of Erjing Formula polysaccharides, establishing a theoretical basis for practical applications in the development of anti-fatigue products.
AIMS: The present study aimed to examine the roles of circRNA-circSMAD2 and its regulatory mechanisms in endometriosis (EMs). BACKGROUND: Evidence has confirmed that circRNAs play multiple roles in regulating the occurre...AIMS: The present study aimed to examine the roles of circRNA-circSMAD2 and its regulatory mechanisms in endometriosis (EMs). BACKGROUND: Evidence has confirmed that circRNAs play multiple roles in regulating the occurrence and development of EMs, but the regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs in EMs remain largely unknown. OBJECTIVE: The roles and regulatory mechanisms of circSMAD2 in EMs. METHOD: Eutopic and ectopic endometrium of ovarian EMs as well as normal endometrial tissues, were used to extract circRNA, mRNA, and total proteins. The human endometrial stromal cell lines (ThESCs) and endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were stimulated with different concentrations or times of 17β-estradiol (E2). The mouse model of EMs was established by implanting uterine horns onto the peritoneum wall using a suture. RESULT: Compared with normal tissues, the expression of circSMAD2 was significantly decreased in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues. Furthermore, the expression of circSMAD2 was downregulated by E2 in a dose- and time-dependent manner in ThESCs and ESCs. Overexpression of circSMAD2 inhibited the invasion and migration of ThESCs, while knockdown of circSMAD2 exerted the opposite effect. The RNA binding protein quaking (QKI), which is involved in circRNA formation, was lower in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues compared to normal tissues. CONCLUSION: Moreover, E2 suppressed the expression of circSMAD2 by inhibiting the expression of QKI. Additionally, E2 enabled the expression of estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) to inhibit the expression of QKI and circSMAD2 in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION: The E2/ERβ/QKI/circSMAD2 pathway was involved in cellular migration and invasion in EMs.