Current Drug Targets[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
RWRGDR: Random Walk and GraphSAGE-based Framework for Enhanced Drug Repositioning.
Momanyi BM, Temesgen SA, Grace-Mercure BK … +5 more , Arif M, Alam T, Gao H, Tang LX, Fang RQ
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 Jan · PMID 41486996 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Drug development is expensive and time-consuming. Advanced computational methods that mine drug-disease correlations are becoming increasingly popular and are gradually replacing traditional biological expe...
INTRODUCTION: Drug development is expensive and time-consuming. Advanced computational methods that mine drug-disease correlations are becoming increasingly popular and are gradually replacing traditional biological experiments. However, most existing techniques rely primarily on network information. They do not fully leverage integration details and rarely capitalize on drugdisease associations. This study proposes the RWRGDR framework, which uses Graph Neural Networks (GNN) for unsupervised feature learning to identify potential drug-disease interactions. The Random Walk with Restart (RWR) algorithm serves as a complementary mechanism to enhance prediction performance. METHODS: The GraphSAGE algorithm first encodes low-dimensional representations, leveraging GAT for multi-head attention to weight the significance of neighbors. The RWR algorithm then captures the global network perspective from a given target node, complementing the initial embeddings with global topological descriptors. This convex integration fuses local features and long-range dependencies, ultimately leading to superior downstream predictions. RESULTS: Our model, based on the Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) classifier, achieved outstanding performance, with Area Under the Curve (AUC) and Area Under the Precision-Recall Curve (AUPRC) values of 0.84 and 0.91, respectively. This performance is highly competitive, surpassing previous techniques. Case studies validate its practical applicability. DISCUSSION: Comprehensive network exploration facilitates an in-depth understanding of complex interactions and extracts meaningful insights required for optimized predictions. Despite a relatively lower AUC, our model outperformed prior methods in AUPRC, highlighting its ability to prioritize highly ranked minority positives. CONCLUSION: RWRGDR represents a potentially reliable drug repositioning strategy, as demonstrated through case studies, indicating its practical significance, particularly for emerging conditions with no recognized treatments.
Antimicrobial Potential of Commercially Produced Citronella Oil: An and Investigation.
Parvez MJF, Hasib RA, Shaha S … +7 more , Antor MA, Afrin Z, Moni MA, Islam MM, Rahman MA, Harrath AH, Jamal MAHM
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41486995 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant global health threat in the 21st century. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has further emphasized the need for novel and effective alternative therap...
INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant global health threat in the 21st century. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has further emphasized the need for novel and effective alternative therapeutics, especially from natural sources. Despite the known bioactivity of citronella oil, its potential as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antiviral agent remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral potential of commercially produced citronella oil using in vitro and in silico approaches. METHODS: The chemical constituents of citronella oil were identified using gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antibacterial activity was assessed using the disk diffusion method, while antifungal efficacy was evaluated via the poison plate method. In silico techniques, including molecular docking, ADMET profiling, density functional theory, molecular dynamics simulation, principal component analysis, and dynamic cross-correlation mapping, were used to predict antiviral activity against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro). RESULTS: GC-MS identified 30 compounds in citronella oil. Antibacterial assays demonstrated notable inhibition against (32 μL/mL), (128 μL/mL), Escherichia coli (8 μL/mL), and (32 μL/mL). The oil achieved 100% mycelial growth inhibition of Fusarium oxysporum at 70 μL/mL. Molecular docking identified three compounds- CID-91697, CID-5367548, and CID-609268- with higher binding affinities than the reference drug shikonin. Computational analyses highlighted CID-91697 as the most promising candidate for SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibition. DISCUSSION: The results show that commercially available citronella oil has strong antifungal properties and moderate antibacterial properties. This suggests that it could be a natural broadspectrum antimicrobial agent. Furthermore, analyses indicate that CID-91697 may function as a potential inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, thus underscoring its significance in antiviral drug discovery. Overall, the results from both in vitro and computer-based studies make a solid case for further preclinical research. CONCLUSION: This study presents the first report on the therapeutic potential of commercially produced citronella oil from Bangladesh as a dual-purpose antimicrobial and antiviral agent. The antifungal potential of citronella oil surpassed its antibacterial efficacy against the tested strains, and CID-91697 is recommended as a promising lead compound against SARS-CoV-2 according to the outcomes of in silico studies. These findings support further experimental and clinical validation of citronella oil as a sustainable, natural alternative for combating infectious diseases.
Preface.
Lin H
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41220258 · Publisher ↗
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Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Mucuna pruriens for Parkinson's Disease Treatment.
Ramirez-Contreras LA, Pech-Santiago EO, Camargo-Hernández G … +3 more , Martínez Esquivias F, Hernández-Hernández L, Guzmán-Flores JM
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 Nov · PMID 41193453 · Publisher ↗
<p> Introduction: Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with limited treatment options. Thus, there's a need for new therapies. Mucuna pruriens (MP) seeds are used in traditional treatments for...
<p> Introduction: Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with limited treatment options. Thus, there's a need for new therapies. Mucuna pruriens (MP) seeds are used in traditional treatments for PD, but their mechanisms are not well understood. This research uses in silico methods to explore MP's pharmacological effects as a potential PD treatment. </p><p> Methods: We registered the active ingredients in MP and their targets, then analyzed genes related to Parkinson's Disease (PD). This led to the creation of a Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network. We examined the binding interactions between hub proteins and compounds using molecular docking and confirmed the results with molecular dynamics analysis. </p><p> Results: We revealed sixteen substances in MP seeds that target 113 therapeutic points in PD. The proteins identified in the enrichment analysis regulate actin, endocytosis, and various other cellular processes. Ultimately, we identified eleven hub proteins (TP53, AKT1, MAPK8, ESR1, MAPK3, BCL2, HSP90AA1, PRKACA, CASP3, EGFR, and IL6) that interact with the sixteen active compounds, a finding confirmed by molecular docking and molecular dynamics. </p><p> Discussion: The identified hub proteins are key therapeutic targets that regulate crucial processes in Parkinson's disease, highlighting the neuroprotective potential of bioactive compounds in MP seeds. These findings justify further experimental studies to confirm their therapeutic potential in treating Parkinson's disease. </p><p> Conclusion: Our findings suggest that, in addition to L-DOPA, other compounds in MP seeds may act synergistically to produce antiparkinsonian effects.
Recent Advances in Organelle-Targeted Drug Delivery: Precision Medicine at the Subcellular Level.
Alsaidan OA
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 Nov · PMID 41193452 · Publisher ↗
Organelle-targeted drug delivery (OTDD) is an advanced strategy in the field of precision medicine, which delivers therapeutic agents to subcellular organelles. The OTDD provides a more targeted and efficient approach fo...
Organelle-targeted drug delivery (OTDD) is an advanced strategy in the field of precision medicine, which delivers therapeutic agents to subcellular organelles. The OTDD provides a more targeted and efficient approach for neurodegenerative, cancer, and metabolic disorders, by addressing the root cause of diseases that are associated with organelle dysfunction. The recent advances in nanotechnology have enabled intelligent drug carriers, which have the potential to target organelles. This study aimed to explore the recent advancements in OTDD, emphasizing the role of nanocarriers, targeting approaches, and stimulus-responsive systems to enhance therapeutic accuracy and overcome major challenges in clinical translation. This review discusses advanced progress in OTDD, focusing on various nanocarriers. It discusses the function of targeting moieties, including peptides and ligands, as well as stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems that are activated by intracellular stimuli, like pH or reactive oxygen species, capable of targeting the delivery of the drug using organelles. Moreover, challenges in clinical translation, regulatory issues, and patient-specific factors are analyzed. OTDD advancements have shown promising preclinical and clinical outcomes in enhancing drug targeting and therapeutic efficiency. However, its clinical use involves barriers in standardization, regulatory approvals, and disease-specific variation, which primarily hinder its clinical application. Personalized strategies need to be employed to enhance the outcome of therapy. The OTDD has the potential to revolutionize subcellular precision medicine by providing specific drugs for different diseases. Interdisciplinary collaboration is required to address the existing challenges and facilitate clinical translation, thereby improving patient- specific therapeutic approaches.
Role of BMP-7 in Cardiovascular Diseases: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Horizons.
Bansal P, Kajal, Sharma S … +1 more , Mazumder A
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 Oct · PMID 41169133 · Publisher ↗
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most prominent leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed and developing countries. Bone Morphogenetic Protein-7 (BMP-7), a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TG...
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most prominent leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed and developing countries. Bone Morphogenetic Protein-7 (BMP-7), a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, has served as a crucial mediator in the progression of pathogenesis of numerous CVDs. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Studies addressing BMP-7 and cardiovascular implications were included for this review. BMP-7 is considered significant for its cardioprotective properties, providing anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and pro-regenerative effects. Additionally, BMP-7 interacts with other signaling molecules, including TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling, PI3K/Akt pathway, PTEN-Akt pathway, and NF-kB signaling, positioning BMP-7 as a potential therapeutic target for mitigating CVDs. Current research into BMP-7 analogs and gene therapy identifies its potential in personalized medicine for CVDs. Conclusively, BMP-7 serves as a multi- -targeting regulator in the pathogenesis of CVDs by influencing the progression of a spectrum of complex molecular interactions of CVDs. Therefore, the present review provides a detailed description of the mechanisms by which it interacts with other molecular targets in the pathogenesis of CVDs, aiming to generate new avenues for targeted intervention and biomarker development in cardiovascular medicine.
Rationally Engineered Small Molecules: Pharmacophore Modeling and Molecular Docking Studies Targeting Toxic Polyglutamine (PolyQ) Repeats in Huntington's Disease.
Pradeepkiran JA, Vatapatri AR, Motakatla PI … +2 more , Pasupuleti B, Munikumar M
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41126427 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by the accumulation of mutant huntingtin protein (mHTT) with expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) tracts. These aggregates contribute t...
INTRODUCTION: Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by the accumulation of mutant huntingtin protein (mHTT) with expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) tracts. These aggregates contribute to neuronal toxicity and disease progression. Targeting aggregation, especially at the N-terminal domain (N17), may offer a therapeutic strategy. This study aims to identify potential small-molecule inhibitors that can bind to aggregation-prone regions of mHTT using computational methods. METHODS: We characterized polyQ repeat regions and the N17 domain using CASTp to identify active sites. Pharmacophore models were generated using LigandScout based on the glutamate inhibitor 6-Diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON). Structurally similar ligands were screened from PubChem. Ten candidates were selected and evaluated through molecular docking. ADME/Toxicity and drug-likeness analyses were performed to assess pharmacokinetic suitability. RESULTS: Ten DON-like ligands showed favorable pharmacophore features. Docking studies identified five compounds with strong binding affinities and key interactions with the polyQ region. These top candidates also demonstrated acceptable ADMET profiles and drug-likeness. DISCUSSION: The five lead compounds identified in this study demonstrate potential to interfere with mHTT aggregation, a key pathological feature of HD. Their favorable binding and pharmacokinetic properties support their candidacy for further development. However, in silico predictions require experimental validation. Future in vitro and in vivo studies are essential to confirm their efficacy and safety. CONCLUSION: This study presents five promising small-molecule inhibitors for HD, laying the groundwork for future therapeutic development targeting mHTT aggregation.
C1 Esterase Inhibitor Deficiency in an Indian Female: A Rare Case Report and a Review of Literature with Treatment Update.
Singh J, Kumar N, Kumar K … +2 more , Dinkar A, Maurya RP
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41102968 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is a rare, autosomal dominant disorder characterized by episodic, non-pruritic, non-pitting swelling of the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal system resulting from C1...
INTRODUCTION: Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is a rare, autosomal dominant disorder characterized by episodic, non-pruritic, non-pitting swelling of the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal system resulting from C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) deficiency or dysfunction. It is frequently underdiagnosed, particularly in developing countries like India, due to its nonspecific presentation and overlap with allergic angioedema. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a 28-year-old Indian woman who presented with a fivemonth history of progressive facial and periorbital swelling. She had no urticaria, known allergies, or systemic symptoms and did not respond to antihistamines or corticosteroids. The initial workup revealed normocytic anemia and elevated inflammatory markers, with normal renal, hepatic, thyroid, and autoimmune profiles. Radiological evaluation showed bilateral pre-septal edema. Complement C4 was normal; however, serum C1-INH level was markedly reduced, confirming type I HAE. She responded well to intravenous plasma-derived C1-INH concentrate (Cinryze). Unfortunately, she succumbed to a later episode of upper airway edema, highlighting the life-threatening potential of untreated or delayed HAE. CONCLUSION: This case emphasizes the need for high clinical suspicion of HAE in patients with unexplained, non-histaminergic angioedema, especially when conventional therapies fail. Early biochemical confirmation and targeted therapy are essential for effectively managing and preventing fatal complications.
Mitochondria-Targeted Nanoformulations: New Therapeutic Strategies and Opportunities for Cancer Immunotherapy.
Cai J, Huang H, Peng B … +2 more , Tang J, He D
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41102967 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, however, its effectiveness remains limited by weak tumor immunogenicity and immunosuppressive microenvironments. Mitochondria have emerged as a strategic t...
INTRODUCTION: Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, however, its effectiveness remains limited by weak tumor immunogenicity and immunosuppressive microenvironments. Mitochondria have emerged as a strategic therapeutic target, given their central role in regulating immune cell activation, proliferation, and function through metabolic reprogramming and signaling pathway modulation. Mitochondria-targeted nanoformulations offer a promising approach to amplify anti-tumor immunity by enhancing immune responses at the cellular and molecular levels. METHODS: We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases using keywords and combinations related to mitochondrial targeting, cancer, immunotherapy, and nanoformulations. The primary search timeframe focused on the last five years. The literature screening process mainly involved an initial screening based on titles and abstracts, followed by a full-text screening. RESULTS: Mitochondria critically govern anti-tumor immunity by controlling the activation and function of immune cells, modulating immune signaling pathways, and adjusting mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism. Recent advancements in mitochondria-targeted nanoformulations have shown potential to enhance immunity by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD), regulating mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism, and activating key immune pathways. DISCUSSION: Mitochondrial-targeted is a novel strategy for activating anti-tumor immunity. Despite promising preclinical results, clinical translation remains unrealized. Future research must prioritize integrating basic and clinical studies to advance mitochondrial immunomodulation from bench to bedside. CONCLUSION: Although preclinical studies demonstrate the promise of mitochondria-targeted nanoformulations, clinical translation remains unrealized. Advances in nanotechnology, immunometabolism, and AI-driven drug design hold immense potential to overcome current barriers, particularly in solid tumors. Future efforts may establish mitochondrial immunomodulation as a transformative strategy in oncology.
Clinical Deployment of Interpretable AI: Bridging Routine Clinical Tests and Proteomic Signatures for Preeclampsia Risk Stratification.
Guo Y, Liang Y, Liu M … +8 more , Zhou J, Zhai Y, Wu Y, Wang X, Li D, Wu J, Xia S, Zuo Y
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 Oct · PMID 41084250 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Preeclampsia (PE) is the second-leading global cause of maternal mortality, affecting 5% of primigravidas. Owing to the substantial heterogeneity of clinical manifestations in PE, an urgent need arises to q...
INTRODUCTION: Preeclampsia (PE) is the second-leading global cause of maternal mortality, affecting 5% of primigravidas. Owing to the substantial heterogeneity of clinical manifestations in PE, an urgent need arises to quantitatively evaluate the efficacy of existing diagnostic methods based on positive proteinuria (PRO) and to develop novel biomarkers to enhance diagnostic accuracy. METHODS: We based 1,215 pregnant women obtained from who delivery at the hospital in January 2018 and April 2022 and involved predictors of 66 routine clinical laboratory tests (RCLTs). In addition, from 362 peripheral blood proteomic samples obtained from published datasets. Compared, evaluated, and explored the performances of 5 machine learning models to constructed prediction models. RESULTS: We pioneered the application of machine learning to assess the diagnostic efficiency of PRO quantitatively, AUROC of 0.771. Next, a more comprehensive assessment was discussed, including 66 RCTIs from blood and urine test items, the AUROC increased to 0.920. Furthermore, the feature selection strategy trained a superior routine clinical prediction model with 5 RCLTs (PRO, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), amylase (AMY), Uric Acid (UA), and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)) for PE to ensure practicality and high performance. In addition, we constructed a protein prediction model for PE based on peripheral blood proteome. Subsequently, EphA1 has been identified as a protein candidate marker for PE, and is highly expressed in placentals. Finally, we established a user-friendly and interpretable PE risk prediction webserver (http://bioinfor. imu.edu.cn/lbppe/) to assist improve the PE diagnosis efficiency. Discussion：The predictive platform developed in this study enhances PE early detection, addressing the clinical need for rapid screening tools. Future multi-center trials should validate the models' generalizability. CONCLUSION: This study assessed the diagnostic efficiency of proteinuria quantitatively and con-structed a cost-effective PE prediction system, which is crucial for improving the diagnostic accuracy of PE.
Cytokeratin 8 as a Novel Therapeutic Target in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Suppression of Hepatic Glycogen Synthesis via IRS1/PI3K/Akt/GSK3β Signaling.
Sun M, Li X, Sun J … +1 more , Wang Z
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41036740 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Recent studies have established that cytokeratin 8 (CK8) is closely linked to glycogen synthesis; however, its mechanistic role in hepatic glycogen synthesis in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains uncle...
INTRODUCTION: Recent studies have established that cytokeratin 8 (CK8) is closely linked to glycogen synthesis; however, its mechanistic role in hepatic glycogen synthesis in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of CK8. METHODS: We analyzed CK8 expression and the IRS1 (Insulin Receptor Substrate 1)/PI3K (Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase)/Akt (Protein Kinase B)/GSK3β (Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 beta) pathway in liver samples from T2DM patients, diabetic C57BL/6J mouse models, and high glucose- treated NCTC 1469 cells using Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and PAS staining. RESULTS: CK8 was significantly upregulated in all T2DM models, correlating with suppressed IRS1/PI3K/Akt/GSK3β signaling and reduced glycogen synthesis. Our functional studies demonstrated that CK8 overexpression exacerbated these effects, while CK8 knockdown restored glycogen levels to near-normal. DISCUSSION: In our study, CK8 was identified as a negative regulator of hepatic glycogen synthesis by modulating the IRS1/PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway. CONCLUSION: These findings position CK8 as a promising therapeutic target for T2DM, with CK8 inhibition offering a novel strategy to improve hepatic insulin resistance and glycogen storage without requiring β-cell stimulation.
Current Situation on Diabetes Management: New Weapons Fighting the Disease in 2025.
Okur ME, Miliotou AN, Nitsola V … +3 more , Karantas ID, Okur NÜ, Siafaka PI
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 41029926 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The global prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus is rising; this complex metabolic disorder marked with hyperglycemia comes with increased morbidity and more associated health risks. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, an...
INTRODUCTION: The global prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus is rising; this complex metabolic disorder marked with hyperglycemia comes with increased morbidity and more associated health risks. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, an autoimmune disorder primarily affecting young individuals, lacks innovative pharmacological therapies. While current treatments for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-including lifestyle interventions and medications-can be effective, many patients still struggle with glycemic control. This review aims to highlight recent advances in diabetes mellitus management, emphasizing novel therapeutics and drug delivery systems that aim to decrease dosage frequency, target the manifestation of side effects, and enhance anti-diabetic effectiveness. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive review of over 300 articles published between 2017 and 2025, utilizing databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect. RESULTS: Recent therapeutic innovations include nanocarrier-mediated drug delivery, microneedle patches, and mRNA- and gene-based systems. DISCUSSION: These technologies aim to improve glycemic control, reduce dosing frequency, and minimize side effects. The 2024 American Diabetes Association Standards of Care introduced updated diagnostic criteria and management recommendations, which are summarized herein. CONCLUSION: This review outlines key developments in pharmacological and delivery strategies of the past 5 years, targeting all types of diabetes. Special focus is placed on emerging therapies such as mRNA, nanotechnology, and innovative delivery systems, which may transform future diabetes management. The content is designed to support clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals in developing future therapeutic strategies.
Proteasome Fine-Tunes the Generation of Antimicrobial Peptides.
Kovalaske A, McLauchlan I, Murphy M … +3 more , Omoniyi H, Hohman G, Eldeeb M
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 40999613 · Publisher ↗
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), part of the body's innate immune response, are natural compounds that inhibit bacteria during bacterial infections. Despite their important role in counteracting cellular pathogens, the pre...
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), part of the body's innate immune response, are natural compounds that inhibit bacteria during bacterial infections. Despite their important role in counteracting cellular pathogens, the precise mechanism of generating AMPs in response to bacterial infection remains elusive. However, recent findings demonstrate that the proteasome, a cellular complex involved in the degradation of intracellular proteins, plays a key role in generating AMPs during bacterial infection. Intriguingly, bacterial infections have been shown to mediate the remodeling of the proteasome, resulting in altered cleavage activity that increases the generation of antimicrobial peptides and helps reduce intracellular bacterial load. Additionally, the 11S proteasome subunit PSME3 has been identified as the key regulatory particle responsible for triggering proteasome remodeling in response to bacterial stress. Remarkably, given the burgeoning research on antimicrobial agents, the recent findings uncover an important anti-bacterial functional role of the proteasome and open avenues for investigating strategies to modulate or enhance the cell's natural defense against pathogens to develop new antimicrobial therapeutics.
Therapeutic Potential of Scorpion Venom Proteins: Innovations in Cancer Treatment and Future Directions.
Ghadiri N, Homayouni V, Jonoush ZA … +5 more , Mahdavi R, Mohammadi N, Amiri AM, Badiee MS, Hakemi MG
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 40965031 · Publisher ↗
Cancer is a significant human health concern due to its increasing mortality rate and profound impact on public health and healthcare systems. The cytotoxic, antiproliferative, immunosuppressive, and apoptogenic properti...
Cancer is a significant human health concern due to its increasing mortality rate and profound impact on public health and healthcare systems. The cytotoxic, antiproliferative, immunosuppressive, and apoptogenic properties of scorpion venom proteins and peptides have been observed in various cancer cell lines. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the potential use of proteins derived from scorpion venom in cancer treatment. In this study, the effects of different scorpion venoms on transmembrane channels, the inhibition of angiogenesis, the inhibition of invasion and metastasis, the inhibition of proliferation, and the induction of apoptosis were investigated, as were their clinical applications in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, and melanoma cancers. The results showed that various scorpion venoms can suppress cell growth, stimulate apoptosis, reduce tumor size, and enhance the immune response, thereby serving as alternative drugs for treating various types of cancers and their metastasis. This review suggests a positive association between scorpion venom (SV) proteins and the treatment of these cancers. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms, identifying biomarkers to predict response, and exploring potential combination therapies to increase the efficacy of scorpion venom proteins in cancer treatment.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Plant-Based Natural Products in Combating Aging.
Sharma A, Ojha A, Rathee S … +2 more , Jain SK, Patil UK
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 40965030 · Publisher ↗
Aging is a complex biological process marked by progressive cellular and tissue decline, leading to an increased risk of age-related diseases. Plant-based natural compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids...
Aging is a complex biological process marked by progressive cellular and tissue decline, leading to an increased risk of age-related diseases. Plant-based natural compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids, have gained attention for their potential in mitigating aging-related damage through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cellular repair mechanisms. The review identified that plant-derived bioactive compounds target key pathways involved in aging, including Sirtuins (SIRT1), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB). These compounds address key hallmarks of aging, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, and chronic inflammation. Evidence suggests their potential in preventing or delaying age-related disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and skin aging. Plant-derived compounds offer a promising alternative to synthetic anti-aging interventions due to their efficacy, safety, and sustainability. However, challenges such as low bioavailability and limited clinical validation must be addressed. Advances in drug delivery systems and comprehensive clinical trials are critical to realizing their full therapeutic potential. Plant-based bioactive compounds represent a significant opportunity for developing safer and more sustainable anti-aging therapies. Continued research is essential to overcome existing limitations and facilitate the integration of these approaches into mainstream healthcare practices.
Investigating the Mechanism of Astragalus mongholicus-Mediated Treatment of Silicosis in Mice from the Perspective of Alternative Splicing.
Zhang Y, Jiang Z, Zhai Y … +1 more , Xing Y
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 40947735 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Astragalus mongholicus is distributed in Inner Mongolia, China, and has a certain therapeutic effect on silicosis. However, the regulatory mechanisms of Astragalus mongholicus mediated by alternative splici...
INTRODUCTION: Astragalus mongholicus is distributed in Inner Mongolia, China, and has a certain therapeutic effect on silicosis. However, the regulatory mechanisms of Astragalus mongholicus mediated by alternative splicing (AS) in silicosis pathology and treatment remain unclear. METHODS: The pathological examination was performed on the lung tissue from a constructed mouse model of silicosis. Then, rMATS-based AS detection, target prediction, PPI analysis, and molecular docking were conducted to investigate the mechanism of Astragalus mongholicus-mediated treatment of silicosis in mice from the perspective of AS. RESULTS: A total of 404 differentially alternatively spliced genes (DASGs) were identified between the Astragalus mongholicus treatment and the silicosis model group. Moreover, 194 potential targets were predicted from 33 active components of Astragalus mongholicus, of which the targets, Rps6ka2 and Clk4, underwent differential AS. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that the Isomucronulatol, 7-o-methylisomucronulatol, and Medicarpin in Astragalus mongholicus might participate in the treatment of silicosis through differential splicing of Rps6ka2 or Clk4. Molecular docking confirmed a strong binding affinity between the protein Rps6ka2 and Medicarpin. DISCUSSION: This study suggests that Isomucronulatol, 7-o-methylisomucronulatol, and Medicarpin, being active components in Astragalus mongholicus, may intervene sis pathogenesis through differential splicing of Rps6ka2 or Clk4, involving biological processes such as protein serine/threonine kinase activity. However, further experimental validation is required to confirm these findings. CONCLUSION: A large number of DASEs exist in the development and treatment of silicosis. Astragalus mongholicus may alleviate silicosis through AS-regulated mechanisms involving Rps6ka2 and Clk4. This finding provides novel strategies and potential molecular targets for silicosis treatment.
Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Systems: Current Advances and Future Directions.
Mittal M, Juneja S, Pandey N … +1 more , Mittal R
Curr Drug Targets · 2026 · PMID 40947723 · Publisher ↗
Nanotechnology in drug delivery has revolutionized modern therapeutics by addressing the limitations of conventional drug delivery methods. This review article explores the significant advancements in nanoparticle-based...
Nanotechnology in drug delivery has revolutionized modern therapeutics by addressing the limitations of conventional drug delivery methods. This review article explores the significant advancements in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, highlighting their role in enhancing therapeutic efficacy and overcoming drug resistance. Nanoparticles, including lipid-based, polymer- based, inorganic, and biological types, offer improved solubility, stability, targeted delivery, and controlled release of therapeutic agents. By enabling precise delivery to specific tissues or cells, these advancements minimize off-target effects and toxicity, particularly in cancer therapy. Additionally, nanomedicine facilitates the delivery of drugs across biological barriers such as the blood-brain barrier, which opens new avenues for treating neurological disorders. The ability to co-encapsulate multiple therapeutic agents in nanoparticles also supports combination therapies that target multiple pathways simultaneously, thereby reducing the development of resistance. As research progresses, the integration of nanotechnology in drug delivery promises to transform healthcare by providing more effective, safer, and personalized treatments. This article supports continued exploration and innovation in the field by emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to fully realize the potential of nanomedicine in improving patient outcomes and addressing unmet clinical needs.
Personalised Transdermal Therapy for Chronic Pain with Digital Twin Technology.
Porwal S, Malviya R, Sridhar SB … +3 more , Shareef J, Warsi MH, Wadhwa T
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 · PMID 40947722 · Publisher ↗
Digital twin technology has emerged as a breakthrough development in healthcare, providing personalised transdermal drug delivery systems for chronic pain treatment. Digital twins provide accurate, customised therapy to...
Digital twin technology has emerged as a breakthrough development in healthcare, providing personalised transdermal drug delivery systems for chronic pain treatment. Digital twins provide accurate, customised therapy to enhance therapeutic outcomes and reduce risks by combining patient-specific computational models. This article aims to explore the applicability of digital twin technology in improving the transdermal delivery of drugs for successful chronic pain management. It is enabling personalised treatment through patient-specific simulations. By integrating physiological data with computational models, digital twins optimise drug absorption, patch application, and dosage adjustments in real-time, enhancing therapeutic outcomes while minimising side effects. Recent advancements highlight improvements in fentanyl patch optimisation, site-specific drug delivery, and thermally controlled systems. However, challenges such as ethical concerns, data security, and standardisation need to be addressed. Future research should focus on integrating AI and IoT to refine digital twin applications in precision medicine. It can be concluded from the findings of various studies that digital twin technology offers a promising future for precise and individualised transdermal drug delivery in chronic pain, paving the way for safer and more effective therapeutic interventions.
The Emerging Landscape of LINC01123 in Cancer: Roles, Mechanisms, and Clinical Significance.
Yang J, Peng F, He H … +7 more , Liu H, Liu K, Xu Z, Hu Y, Liao G, Cai Y, Yuan C
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 · PMID 40947695 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Long intergenic non-coding RNA 01123 (LINC01123) is a lncRNA located on the human chromosome 2q13. It is upregulated in various cancers and has been identified as an oncogene. Its expression is associated w...
INTRODUCTION: Long intergenic non-coding RNA 01123 (LINC01123) is a lncRNA located on the human chromosome 2q13. It is upregulated in various cancers and has been identified as an oncogene. Its expression is associated with the risk and poor prognosis of multiple cancers. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases using "LINC01123" as the search term. The retrieved studies were reviewed to analyze the expression patterns, oncogenic mechanisms, and clinical significance of LINC01123 in cancers. RESULTS: LINC01123 is activated by transcription factors such as c-Myc, ZEB1, and FOXC1. It promotes cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance by acting as a "molecular sponge" for miRNAs, activating signaling pathways, or interacting with proteins. Its upregulation correlates with adverse clinicopathological features and poor prognosis in multiple cancers. DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that LINC01123 plays a multifaceted role in cancer biology. Its ability to regulate gene expression through various mechanisms highlights its potential as both a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target. However, further research is needed to elucidate its mechanisms fully and to explore its clinical applications across different cancer types. CONCLUSION: LINC01123 has potential as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for cancer. Further research is needed to elucidate its mechanisms and clinical applications fully.
Unraveling the Pivotal Role of LncRNA DUXAP9 in Cancer: Current Progress and Future Perspectives.
Yang J, Yang S, Peng W … +5 more , He H, Liu H, Zhang J, Liao G, Yuan C
Curr Drug Targets · 2025 · PMID 40926606 · Publisher ↗
Double homeobox A pseudogene 9 (DUXAP9), also known as long intergenic non-coding RNA 1296 (LINC01296) and lymph node metastasis-associated transcript 1 (LNMAT1), is an emerging lncRNA encoded by a pseudogene. It has bee...
Double homeobox A pseudogene 9 (DUXAP9), also known as long intergenic non-coding RNA 1296 (LINC01296) and lymph node metastasis-associated transcript 1 (LNMAT1), is an emerging lncRNA encoded by a pseudogene. It has been reported to be upregulated in various tumor types and functions as an oncogenic factor. The high expression of DUXAP9 is closely related to clinical pathological features and poor prognosis in 16 types of malignant tumors. DUXAP9 is transcriptionally activated by YY-1 and Twist1 and functions as a guide or scaffold for biomolecular complexes and chromatin modifiers, or as a "decoy" for miRNAs, mRNAs, and proteins, thereby regulating gene expression. Moreover, the PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, MAPK/ERK, and Wnt/β- catenin signaling pathways are variously activated or inhibited by DUXAP9, subsequently influencing the biological behaviors of tumor cells, including proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and drug resistance. This review summarizes recent research on DUXAP9 in oncology, offering insights into its expression characteristics, biological functions, molecular mechanisms, and clinical significance for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
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