Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a malignant, hypercellular, and invasive brain tumor characterized by high mortality and recurrence. Their strong heterogeneity, mitotic activity, microvascular proliferation, and foci of...Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a malignant, hypercellular, and invasive brain tumor characterized by high mortality and recurrence. Their strong heterogeneity, mitotic activity, microvascular proliferation, and foci of necrosis induce therapeutic resistance, resulting in a 5-year survival rate of only 5% in patients diagnosed with glioblastoma. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new targets to improve prognosis, better predict prognosis, and monitor treatment outcomes. It has been suggested that miRNAs—small, single-stranded, non-coding RNAs consisting of 20-22 nucleotides—may be potential candidates for clinical biomarkers in glioblastoma patients. They participate in the post-translational regulation of gene expression through RNA interference. It is believed that, due to their ability to control the biological processes underlying GBM development, miRNAs may aid in the design of drugs for personalized glioma therapy. This article presents the latest insights into the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of GBM and as a potential therapeutic target.
Ovarian cancer remains one of the most frequently diagnosed and lethal gynaecological malignancies. Standard treatment involves surgical cytoreduction followed by chemotherapy based on platinum compounds and taxanes. Des...Ovarian cancer remains one of the most frequently diagnosed and lethal gynaecological malignancies. Standard treatment involves surgical cytoreduction followed by chemotherapy based on platinum compounds and taxanes. Despite initial therapeutic efficacy, many patients experience disease recurrence and develop drug resistance, posing a significant clinical challenge. This review summarises the main molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to commonly used drugs, including paclitaxel, cisplatin, and PARP inhibitors. The role of multidrug resistance (MDR), associated with the overexpression of ABC transporters and alterations in drug metabolism, is discussed. Particular attention is given to cellular mechanisms, including changes in microtubule structure, regulation of apoptosis, and activation of signalling pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR. Mechanisms related to drug transport, detoxification, and DNA repair are also addressed, together with the influence of the tumour microenvironment and epigenetic modifications. Understanding these mechanisms may contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Phytotherapy relies on biologically active plant-derived compounds and preparations. The use of phytotherapeutics in treatment of diabetes consequently increases. Many plant extracts interact with key elements of glucose...Phytotherapy relies on biologically active plant-derived compounds and preparations. The use of phytotherapeutics in treatment of diabetes consequently increases. Many plant extracts interact with key elements of glucose metabolism, e.g. through modulation of DPP-4 activity, increase in glucose intake by tissues and improvement of pancreatic beta-cells. Experimental data indicates that Hairy Rock-rose, tea plant, European olive, American ginseng, berberis or white mulberry can support glycemic control and limit the development of metabolic side effects. Despite vast literature data, the clinical efficacy of several phytotherapeutics remains ambiguous, what indicates the need to conduct further research, in particular well-designed clinical studies. Here we review plants with therapeutic potential, whose use in the treatment of diabetes has been confirmed by experimental in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies; promising directions in future studies on phytotherapeutics have also been indicated.
Riboregulation is a key component of bacterial adaptation, as regulatory RNAs enable rapid and precise control of gene expression in response to stress and fluctuating environmental conditions. This control is exerted at...Riboregulation is a key component of bacterial adaptation, as regulatory RNAs enable rapid and precise control of gene expression in response to stress and fluctuating environmental conditions. This control is exerted at the levels of transcription, translation, and mRNA stability, allowing the cell to efficiently adjust gene expression without the need to produce additional protein regulators. Regulation involves both locally acting elements (including riboswitches, thermosensors, and antisense RNAs) and in trans acting molecules primarily sRNAs which form extensive networks affecting the expression of many genes simultaneously. The multilayered nature of these systems is further enhanced by sRNA-binding proteins and RNA sponges, which modulate the availability of regulators and shape complex gene expression control networks. Modern methods like Hfq-CLASH enable better identification of these interactions in vivo. In parallel, applied research leverages these mechanisms in synthetic biology and against antibiotic resistance.
Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Analytical protein microarrays are a promising diagnostic tool, particularly for early disease detection. They enabl...Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Analytical protein microarrays are a promising diagnostic tool, particularly for early disease detection. They enable rapid and sensitive analysis of multiple biomarkers, outperforming traditional methods, and allow for differentiation of lung cancer types, supporting personalized medicine. An additional advantage is the ability to analyze non-invasive samples, such as serum. Despite certain limitations, this technology is developing dynamically. The aim of this thesis is to present the principles of operation, structure, and analytical applications of protein microarrays as advanced diagnostic tools in molecular biology and in the study of protein interactions. The thesis also discusses the benefits resulting from the use of this technology, its advantages over traditional methods, as well as the limitations affecting its practical application in diagnostics and cancer therapy.
Iridoid glycosides are a diverse group of plant secondary metabolites with broad biological activity and promising pharmacological potential. This review summarizes their structural diversity, occurrence in plants, biosy...Iridoid glycosides are a diverse group of plant secondary metabolites with broad biological activity and promising pharmacological potential. This review summarizes their structural diversity, occurrence in plants, biosynthetic pathways, and biological properties. Particular attention is given to the biosynthesis derived from IPP and DMAPP, including the well-characterized secoiridoid pathway and the less understood pathway leading to compounds such as aucubin and catalpol. The most important biological activities of iridoids, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, and anticancer effects, are discussed with clear distinction between in vitro studies, animal models, and limited clinical evidence. The review emphasizes that most available data remain preclinical, while clinical studies are still scarce. Major limitations affecting the therapeutic application of iridoids include low bioavailability, variable chemical stability, lack of extract standardization, and difficulties in translating experimental findings into clinical practice.
The transcription factor REST (RE1-silencing transcription factor) is a key regulator of neuronal gene expression, playing a role in normal brain development and in the pathogenesis of central nervous system (CNS) tumors...The transcription factor REST (RE1-silencing transcription factor) is a key regulator of neuronal gene expression, playing a role in normal brain development and in the pathogenesis of central nervous system (CNS) tumors. By binding RE1 sequences and recruiting repressive complexes, it participates in epigenetic gene silencing, controlling the processes of neurogenesis and cellular differentiation. In CNS tumors, REST exhibits context-dependent effects, most often acting as an oncogene. Deregulation of its expression promotes pro-tumor processes, such as maintaining tumor stem cell properties, inhibiting differentiation, proliferation and increased invasiveness, angiogenesis, adaptation to hypoxia, and shaping the tumor microenvironment. Accumulating evidence indicates its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target, making REST a promising element of treatment strategies for CNS tumors.
Secondary metabolites, which are natural products of fungi, perform key biological functions and have applications in medicine. The production of these compounds is subject to the control of clusters of biosynthetic gene...Secondary metabolites, which are natural products of fungi, perform key biological functions and have applications in medicine. The production of these compounds is subject to the control of clusters of biosynthetic genes located within the genome. It has been observed that these genes can become dormant under standard culture conditions. The advent of modern genetic and epigenetic methodologies has rendered the activation of these elements possible, thus facilitating the identification of novel bioactive compounds. The present article delineates classes of metabolites, the mechanisms of their biosynthesis, and current research strategies, combining knowledge from biology, genetics, and biotechnology.
The Escherichia coli bacterium is presented from its discovery in 1885 by the German-Austrian microbiologist and pediatrician Theodor Escherich, to contemporary research using state-of-the-art experimental and bioinforma...The Escherichia coli bacterium is presented from its discovery in 1885 by the German-Austrian microbiologist and pediatrician Theodor Escherich, to contemporary research using state-of-the-art experimental and bioinformatic techniques, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. E. coli accompany humans from birth as a commensal organism of the gut microbiota. However, some E. coli strains exhibit pathogenic properties, causing intestinal and extraintestinal diseases, sometimes threatening the health and even life of the host. At the same time, 140 years after the discovery of E. coli bacteria, it is the best-studied single-celled organism in the world. Molecular biologists, bacteriologists, and biochemists point to the enormous importance of E. coli as a model organism in understanding the molecular mechanisms of key life processes in both health and disease, as well as its use in industrial-scale biotechnology. That is why E. coli is called the “workhorse of molecular biology and biomedicine,” and scientists working with E. coli strains have been recognized and honored for their discoveries with numerous Nobel Prizes.
Maggot therapy is a method for treating chronic, non-healing wounds using live fly larvae that consume necrotic tissue, thereby cleaning the wound. The species most commonly used is Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826). Altho...Maggot therapy is a method for treating chronic, non-healing wounds using live fly larvae that consume necrotic tissue, thereby cleaning the wound. The species most commonly used is Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826). Although clinically applied, the method raises concerns among patients and medical staff. Current research highlights the therapeutic potential of chemical compounds in larval excretions/secretions (ES), particularly against the growing issue of antibiotic resistance, as a complement to standard antibiotic therapy. Most studies focus on ES from L. sericata, while other fly species have been less explored. Investigated groups include Calliphoridae, Muscidae, and Sarcophagidae. Studies suggest ES may have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer properties. This work focuses on the less-studied species and the properties of their ES.
The synthesis of organic compounds using oxidoreductive enzymes as biocatalysts is increasingly being considered as an environmentally friendly alternative to classical chemical synthesis. An example of such an enzyme, w...The synthesis of organic compounds using oxidoreductive enzymes as biocatalysts is increasingly being considered as an environmentally friendly alternative to classical chemical synthesis. An example of such an enzyme, which exhibits low substrate specificity and operates under mild conditions of pH, pressure and temperature, is laccase, a versatile phenolic oxidase that uses oxygen as a natural reaction co-substrate. It can oxidise both phenolic derivatives and aromatic amines, which in homo- or heteromolecular reactions are coupled to form new organic compounds with unique properties and applications, also as biologically active molecules. Among the many bioactive substances obtained by biocatalysis, substances with antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities can be distinguished. Especially the latter are of great value in the context of the search for new therapeutic compounds that can overcome the phenomenon of bacterial drug resistance.
There is growing interest in flavonoids as bioactive components of functional foods. Flavonoids are a broad group of natural polyphenolic compounds that perform many important biological functions, including antioxidant,...There is growing interest in flavonoids as bioactive components of functional foods. Flavonoids are a broad group of natural polyphenolic compounds that perform many important biological functions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and cardioprotective effects. Given the rising incidence of cardiovascular disease, consuming foods containing flavonoids as a preventive factor is particularly important. These compounds are primarily sourced from fruits such as chokeberry, blackcurrant, apples, hawthorn, lemons, and red grapes. Flavonoids with documented cardioprotective effects have been identified in these foods, including catechin, epicatechin, quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, rutin, apigenin, luteolin, naringenin, and hesperetin. Precise identification and characterization of flavonoids requires the use of appropriate analytical methods. High-performance liquid chromatography remains one of the most commonly used techniques in qualitative and quantitative analysis. The selection of extraction conditions and chromatographic parameters, such as column type, mobile phase, elution method, and detector, are crucial for ensuring selectivity and repeatability of determinations. The aim of this paper is to review the methodological aspects of flavonoid determination in selected food products used in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Flavonoid extraction methods and liquid chromatography conditions are summarized. The analyzed studies included plant materials in both fresh, freeze-dried, and frozen forms. Extracts were derived from whole plants, as well as from their flesh, peels, and leaves. This paper provides an overview of practical solutions and can be used to support planning quantitative flavonoid analyses.
The aim of this article is to review selected information on the latest atypical antipsychotic drugs that are characterized by partial agonism of dopamine D2 receptors: brexpiprazole, aripiprazole, cariprazine and lumate...The aim of this article is to review selected information on the latest atypical antipsychotic drugs that are characterized by partial agonism of dopamine D2 receptors: brexpiprazole, aripiprazole, cariprazine and lumateperone. The paper discusses the localization and biochemical aspects of D2 receptors. A particularly important site for neuroleptic interactions is the ventral striatopallidal system and the structures comprising the mesocortical pathway, which, among other things, extends to the frontal lobes exhibiting various structural and functional abnormalities in schizophrenia. The symptomatic and syndromic profile of schizophrenia has been described, along with practical guidelines for clinicians. Both archaic psychopathological divisions (e.g., the dichotomy of positive and negative symptoms, primary and secondary symptoms) and contemporary divisions (ICD-11) were taken into account. Brexpiprazole, which is a quinoline derivative, is structurally very similar to aripiprazole. However, it has a slightly different psychopharmacological mechanism centred around lower dopaminergic activity, which translates into a lower risk of developing extrapyramidal symptoms and stronger serotonergic affinity, implying anxiolytic, antidepressant, and procognitive effects. Cariprazine, which is an N-alkylpiperazine, acts as an antagonist for serotonergic receptors and as an agonist for dopaminergic receptors. Studies indicate that, in addition to schizophrenia, it has satisfactory clinical effects in psychotic states in the elderly and agitation of various etiologies. Lumateperone (ITI-007) stands out from the other discussed in this paper drugs due to its modulation of the glutamatergic system. In the case of its mechanism of action, it is also referred to in scientific literature as a dopamine phosphoprotein modulator. Each of the listed here drugs has the potential to reduce positive (delusions, hallucinations) and negative (cognitive impairment, autism, the "ambi" group) symptoms. Their metabolism mainly involves the CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes. The use of the drugs analyzed in this paper is not limited to schizophrenia-related psychosis. They also achieve significant clinical effects in certain affective disorders (especially those with psychotic states) and neurodevelopmental units. The prospects for further research into new antipsychotic substances were highlighted, which are likely to focus on modulating the activity of the dopaminergic, serotonergic, and glutamatergic systems.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose etiology involves complex interactions of environmental, genetic, and neurobiological factors. The developing knowledge regard...Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose etiology involves complex interactions of environmental, genetic, and neurobiological factors. The developing knowledge regarding the genesis of this disorder, along with the increasing number of diagnosed cases, creates a need to search for more effective treatment methods. One potential complementary therapy is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Its potential mechanism of action in ASD is primarily associated with its anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of neuroplasticity, and a potential impact on oxidative stress levels. Current research shows that HBOT may improve certain behavioral and cognitive factors in individuals with ASD, such as speech, communication, and psychosocial functioning. However, these results are often inconsistent due to potential adverse effects of HBOT, such as barotrauma and oxygen toxicity. This article highlights the significance of HBOT in ASD based on available literature from experimental studies conducted between 2012 and 2025.
Despite medical advances, heart disease is now the world's biggest health problem, with a sharp rise in deaths. The most dangerous and common of these are heart attack and heart failure, which can lead to acute coronary...Despite medical advances, heart disease is now the world's biggest health problem, with a sharp rise in deaths. The most dangerous and common of these are heart attack and heart failure, which can lead to acute coronary syndromes and are very dangerous. Research into biochemical markers of heart disease is being driven by the need for earlier diagnosis. Assumptions include the ability to detect these markers early on, their high specificity for the heart muscle, and the reliability of assay results. Cardiac troponins and natriuretic peptides, which are already used as diagnostic tools, are crucial in diagnosing heart attacks and heart failure. ST-2 and h-FABP proteins show promise as diagnostic tools, but none of the markers discovered so far are ideal. The scientific literature on biomarkers of heart dysfunction highlights the concern among professionals. Research findings need further analysis. These solutions could transform global cardiology.
Skeletal muscle is a dynamic tissue involved not only in mechanical functions but also in the regulation of metabolic and immune processes. It secretes signaling molecules known as myokines, which act in autocrine, parac...Skeletal muscle is a dynamic tissue involved not only in mechanical functions but also in the regulation of metabolic and immune processes. It secretes signaling molecules known as myokines, which act in autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine ways- affecting both muscle function and other tissues and organs. Well-known myokines include myostatin, IL-6, IL-15, FGF21, and irisin. They regulate muscle mass and strength, promote angiogenesis, maintain glucose and lipid homeostasis, and contribute to immune and anti-cancer responses. Their activity depends on physiological and pathological conditions at both local and systemic levels. Notably, myokine secretion varies with muscle fiber type, influencing their specific biological effects. Understanding how myokines are regulated and function may support the development of new therapies in regenerative medicine, oncology, and metabolic disease treatment.
Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is an intensively studied area of molecular biology. It includes cytosine methylation, whose mechanism of action in nuclear DNA is relatively well understood. This process is medi...Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is an intensively studied area of molecular biology. It includes cytosine methylation, whose mechanism of action in nuclear DNA is relatively well understood. This process is mediated by enzymes from the DNA methyltransferase family. Hydroxymethylation is, considered both an intermediate step in cytosine demethylation and a potentially independent mechanism of regulation of gene expression. Functional significance—and even the presence—of methylation within mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) remains a matter of debate. Accumulated evidence indicates that methylation and hydroxymethylation may play important role in mitochondria. Although epigenetic regulation of gene expression in mitochondria is not yet fully understood, the current state of knowledge suggests that it may influence proper cellular function and the pathogenesis of numerous diseases.
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide and is strongly associated with tobacco smoke exposure. In recent years, electronic cigarettes have gained popularity as seemingly safer...Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide and is strongly associated with tobacco smoke exposure. In recent years, electronic cigarettes have gained popularity as seemingly safer alternatives to conventional cigarettes; however, their impact on tumor biology remains controversial. A central process in lung cancer progression is the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), which promotes cellular invasion, migration, and therapy resistance. This review summarizes current evidence on how nicotine, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), carbonyl compounds, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulate EMT through key signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT, MAPK/ERK, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and HIF-1α. Moreover, it discusses the role of thermal processes during tobacco combustion and e-liquid heating in generating carcinogenic by-products. Emerging data indicate that both traditional and electronic cigarettes release bioactive agents capable of inducing EMT, thereby contributing to lung cancer pathogenesis and revealing potential therapeutic targets.
Chemical modifications of DNA and RNA play a pivotal role in the regulation of gene expression, enabling precise control of cellular functions and adaptation to changing environmental conditions. The most common modifica...Chemical modifications of DNA and RNA play a pivotal role in the regulation of gene expression, enabling precise control of cellular functions and adaptation to changing environmental conditions. The most common modification in human DNA is cytosine methylation at the 5th position (5mC), while in RNA it is adenosine methylation at the N6 position (m⁶A), recognized as the predominant epitranscriptomic modification. Regulation of these modifications relies on the coordinated action of three groups of proteins: methyltransferases, demethylases, and reader proteins, which recognize modified nucleobases and recruit effector protein complexes, thereby translating the pattern of nucleic acid modifications into a specific biological response. Dysfunction of these protein groups leads to aberrant 5mC and m⁶A patterns, which play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and progression of many human diseases, including cancer. Deregulation of DNA and RNA methylation affects, among others, the control of genes involved in proliferation, apoptosis, and genome stability, which may promote tumor progression; moreover, the dynamic and reversible nature of these modifications makes them attractive diagnostic and therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.