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The non-coding RNAs comprise a large part of human genome lack of capacity in encoding functional proteins. Among various members of non-coding RNAs, the circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been of importance in the pathogenesis of human diseases, especially cancer. The circRNAs have a unique closed loop structure and due to their stability, they are potential diagnostic and prognostic factors in cancer. The increasing evidences have highlighted the role of circRNAs in the modulation of proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. On the other hand, metastasis has been responsible for up to 90% of cancer-related deaths in patients, requiring more investigation regarding the underlying mechanisms modulating this mechanism. EMT enhances metastasis and invasion of tumor cells, and can trigger resistance to therapy. The cells demonstrate dynamic changes during EMT including transformation from epithelial phenotype into mesenchymal phenotype and increase in N-cadherin and vimentin levels. The process of EMT is reversible and its reprogramming can disrupt the progression of tumor cells. The aim of current review is to understanding the interaction of circRNAs and EMT in human cancers and such interaction is beyond the regulation of cancer metastasis and can affect the response of tumor cells to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The onco-suppressor circRNAs inhibit EMT, while the tumor-promoting circRNAs mediate EMT for acceleration of carcinogenesis. Moreover, the EMT-inducing transcription factors can be controlled by circRNAs in different human tumors.
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Carcinogénesis , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal , Metástasis de la Neoplasia , Neoplasias , ARN Circular , Humanos , ARN Circular/genética , ARN Circular/metabolismo , Transición Epitelial-Mesenquimal/genética , Neoplasias/genética , Neoplasias/patología , Neoplasias/metabolismo , Carcinogénesis/genética , Carcinogénesis/patología , Resistencia a Antineoplásicos/genética , Plasticidad de la Célula/genética , Animales , Regulación Neoplásica de la Expresión GénicaRESUMEN
Obesity has emerged as an important global health challenge, significantly influencing the incidence and progression of various cancers. This comprehensive review elucidates the complex relationship between obesity and oncogenesis, focusing particularly on the role of dysregulated signaling pathways as central mediators of this association. We delve into the contributions of obesity-induced alterations in key signaling cascades, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT, NF-κB, and Wnt/ß-catenin to carcinogenesis. These alterations facilitate unchecked cellular proliferation, chronic inflammation and apoptosis resistance. Epidemiological evidence links obesity with increased cancer susceptibility and adverse prognostic outcomes, with pronounced risks for specific cancers such as breast, colorectal, endometrial and hepatic malignancies. This review synthesizes data from both animal and clinical studies to underscore the pivotal role of disrupted signaling pathways in shaping innovative therapeutic strategies. We highlight the critical importance of lifestyle modifications in obesity management and cancer risk mitigation, stressing the benefits of dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioral interventions. Moreover, we examine targeted pharmacological strategies addressing aberrant pathways in obesity-related tumors and discuss the integration of cutting-edge treatments, including immunotherapy and precision medicine, into clinical practice.
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Neoplasias , Obesidad , Transducción de Señal , Humanos , Obesidad/complicaciones , Obesidad/metabolismo , AnimalesRESUMEN
Suboptimal fibromyalgia management with over-the-counter analgesics leads to deteriorated outcomes for pain and mental health symptoms especially in low-income countries hosting refugees. To examine the association between the over-the-counter analgesics and the severity of fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms in a cohort of Syrian refugees. This is a cross-sectional study. Fibromyalgia was assessed using the patient self-report survey for the assessment of fibromyalgia. Depression was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, insomnia severity was measured using the insomnia severity index (ISI-A), and PTSD was assessed using the Davidson trauma scale (DTS)-DSM-IV. Data were analyzed from 291. Among them, 221 (75.9%) reported using acetaminophen, 79 (27.1%) reported using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and 56 (19.2%) reported receiving a prescription for centrally acting medications (CAMs). Fibromyalgia screening was significantly associated with using NSAIDs (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.58-5.80, p = 0.001). Severe depression was significantly associated with using NSAIDs (OR 2.07, 95% CI 2.18-3.81, p = 0.02) and CAMs (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.30-5.76, p = 0.008). Severe insomnia was significantly associated with the use of CAMs (OR 3.90, 95% CI 2.04-5.61, p < 0.001). PTSD symptoms were associated with the use of CAMs (ß = 8.99, p = 0.001) and NSAIDs (ß = 10.39, p < 0.001). Improper analgesics are associated with poor fibromyalgia and mental health outcomes, prompt awareness efforts are required to address this challenge for the refugees and health care providers.
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Fibromialgia , Refugiados , Trastornos del Inicio y del Mantenimiento del Sueño , Trastornos por Estrés Postraumático , Humanos , Femenino , Salud Mental , Estudios Transversales , Trastornos por Estrés Postraumático/tratamiento farmacológico , Fibromialgia/diagnóstico , Fibromialgia/tratamiento farmacológico , Siria , Depresión/tratamiento farmacológico , Analgésicos/efectos adversos , Antiinflamatorios no Esteroideos , InternetRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the prevalence and correlates of fibromyalgia and insomnia in a sample of Women with Multiple Sclerosis (WMS). METHODS: The study was cross-sectional in design and recruited a sample of 163 women with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). Fibromyalgia was assessed using the Patient Self-Report Survey (PSRS), following criteria outlined by the American College of Rheumatology. Insomnia was measured using the Arabic version of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI-A). RESULTS: The prevalence of fibromyalgia and insomnia was 28.2% (n = 46) and 46.3% (n = 76), respectively. Multivariate analyses were used to determine significant independent correlates. Fibromyalgia was associated with age above 40 years (OR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.01-5.18, P = .04), high school education (OR = 3.69, 95% CI = 1.62-8.37, P = .002), and non-use of analgesics (OR = .02, 95% CI = .004-.21, P = .001). Insomnia symptoms were significantly associated only with age above 40 years (OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.16-4.04, P = .01). CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the need for increased attention by primary care physicians towards diagnosing and treating fibromyalgia and insomnia among women with RRMS in Jordan, particularly among older women.
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The study of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and SIRT1, a member of the sirtuin family with nitric oxide (NO), is emerging in depression and anxiety. As with all antidepressants, the efficacy is delayed and inconsistent. Ascorbic acid (AA) and vitamin D (D) showed antidepressant properties, while etifoxine (Etx), a GABAA agonist, alleviates anxiety symptoms. The present study aimed to investigate the potential augmentation of citalopram using AA, D and Etx and related the antidepressant effect to brain and serum ICAM-1, SIRT1 and NO in an animal model. BALB/c mice were divided into naive, control, citalopram, citalopram + etx, citalopram + AA, citalopram + D and citalopram + etx + AA + D for 7 days. On the 8th day, the mice were restrained for 8 h, followed by a forced swim test and marble burying test before scarification. Whole-brain and serum expression of ICAM-1, Sirt1 and NO were determined. Citalopram's antidepressant and sedative effects were potentiated by ascorbic acid, vitamin D and etifoxine alone and in combination (p < 0.05), as shown by the decreased floating time and rearing frequency. Brain NO increased significantly (p < 0.05) in depression and anxiety and was associated with an ICAM-1 increase versus naive (p < 0.05) and a Sirt1 decrease (p < 0.05) versus naive. Both ICAM-1 and Sirt1 were modulated by antidepressants through a non-NO-dependent pathway. Serum NO expression was unrelated to serum ICAM-1 and Sirt1. Brain ICAM-1, Sirt1 and NO are implicated in depression and are modulated by antidepressants.
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Ansiedad , Citalopram , Depresión , Óxido Nítrico , Oxazinas , Animales , Ratones , Antidepresivos/farmacología , Antidepresivos/uso terapéutico , Ansiedad/tratamiento farmacológico , Ácido Ascórbico/farmacología , Ácido Ascórbico/uso terapéutico , Citalopram/farmacología , Citalopram/uso terapéutico , Depresión/tratamiento farmacológico , Molécula 1 de Adhesión Intercelular , Oxazinas/farmacología , Oxazinas/uso terapéutico , Sirtuina 1 , Vitamina D/farmacología , Vitamina D/uso terapéutico , Vitaminas , Quimioterapia CombinadaRESUMEN
Depression is linked with oxidative stress and inflammation, where key players include nitric oxide (NO), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and Heme Oxidase-1 (HO-1). Augmenting the efficacy of antidepressants represents a compelling avenue of exploration. We explored the potential of vitamins C and D as adjuncts to escitalopram (Esc) in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression model focusing on the aforementioned biomarkers. Male Swiss albino mice were stratified into distinct groups: control, LPS, LPS + Esc, LPS + Esc + Vit C, LPS + Esc + Vit D, and LPS + Esc + Vit C + Vit D. After a 7-day treatment period, a single LPS dose (2 mg/kg), was administered, followed by comprehensive assessments of behavior and biochemical parameters. Notably, a statistically significant (p < 0.05) alleviation of depressive symptoms was discerned in the Esc + Vit C + Vit D group versus the LPS group, albeit with concomitant pronounced sedation evident in all LPS-treated groups (p < 0.05). Within the cortex, LPS reduced (p < 0.05) the expression levels of NOx, Nrf2, BDNF, and HO-1, with only HO-1 being reinstated to baseline in the LPS + Esc + Vit D and the LPS + Esc + Vit C + Vit D groups. Conversely, the hippocampal NOx, Nrf2, and HO-1 levels remained unaltered following LPS administration. Notably, the combination of Esc, Vit C, and Vit D effectively restored hippocampal BDNF levels, which had been diminished by Esc alone. In conclusion, vitamins C and D enhance the therapeutic effects of escitalopram through a mechanism independent of Nrf2. These findings underscore the imperative need for in-depth investigations.
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Escitalopram , Lipopolisacáridos , Ratones , Animales , Masculino , Lipopolisacáridos/farmacología , Depresión/tratamiento farmacológico , Depresión/metabolismo , Ácido Ascórbico/farmacología , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/metabolismo , Factor 2 Relacionado con NF-E2/metabolismo , Vitaminas , Adyuvantes Inmunológicos , Vitamina D , Modelos AnimalesRESUMEN
Dysmenorrhea, the most common gynecological pain syndrome reported in women, is understudied in refugee communities. In addition, the association between dysmenorrhea self-medication and mental health symptoms in this population is poorly understood. We aimed to examine whether the use of dysmenorrhea analgesic self-medications and other clinical factors are associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and insomnia severity in female war refugees residing in Zaatari Camp. This study followed a cross-sectional design and was performed on a cohort of women with predefined inclusion criteria. The severity of PTSD, depression, anxiety and insomnia were assessed using Davidson Trauma Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, the General Anxiety Disorder-7, and the Arabic version of the Insomnia Severity Index, respectively. Data were analysed from 386 participants. Using OTC paracetamol was significantly associated with higher PTSD severity (B=4.16, t= 2.43, p=0.01), and severe depression (OR=1.88, 95% CI= 1.07-3.28, p=0.03), while OTC non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was significantly associated with severe insomnia (OR=1.62, 95% CI= 1.05-2.49, p= 0.02). In conclusion, self-medication with analgesics was correlated with poor mental health; close medical and psychiatric follow-up are required to supervise pain self-medication and implement non-pharmacological strategies to manage dysmenorrhea in this fragile community.
La dysménorrhée, le syndrome douloureux gynécologique le plus fréquemment signalé chez les femmes, est peu étudiée dans les communautés de réfugiés. De plus, l'association entre l'automédication de la dysménorrhée et les symptômes de santé mentale dans cette population est mal comprise. Nous avions pour objectif d'examiner si l'utilisation d'automédicaments analgésiques contre la dysménorrhée et d'autres facteurs cliniques sont associés au trouble de stress post-traumatique (SSPT), à la dépression, à l'anxiété et à la gravité de l'insomnie chez les réfugiées de guerre résidant dans le camp de Zaatari. Cette étude a suivi une conception transversale et a été réalisée sur une cohorte de femmes avec des critères d'inclusion prédéfinis. La gravité du SSPT, de la dépression, de l'anxiété et de l'insomnie a été évaluée à l'aide de l'échelle de traumatisme de Davidson, du questionnaire sur la santé du patient-9, du trouble d'anxiété général-7 et de la version arabe de l'indice de gravité de l'insomnie, respectivement. Les données ont été analysées auprès de 386 participants. L'utilisation de paracétamol en vente libre était significativement associée à une gravité plus élevée du SSPT (B = 4,16, t = 2,43, p = 0,01) et à une dépression sévère (OR = 1,88, IC à 95 % = 1,07-3,28, p = 0,03), tandis que les médicaments non stéroïdiens en vente libre les anti-inflammatoires (AINS) étaient associés de manière significative à l'insomnie sévère (OR = 1,62, IC à 95 % = 1,05-2,49, p = 0,02). En conclusion, l'automédication avec des analgésiques était corrélée à une mauvaise santé mentale ; un suivi médical et psychiatrique étroit est nécessaire pour encadrer l'automédication de la douleur et mettre en Åuvre des stratégies non pharmacologiques pour prendre en charge la dysménorrhée dans cette communauté fragile.
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Refugiados , Automedicación , Humanos , Femenino , Refugiados/psicología , Adulto , Dismenorrea/psicología , Salud Mental , Adulto Joven , Campos de RefugiadosRESUMEN
Background and Objectives: The current war on the Gaza strip and the circulating violent content is believed to negatively impact the mental health of the Palestinians living in refugee camps outside their homeland. This study explores the prevalence and correlates of depression, anxiety, and insomnia in a cohort of female Palestinian refugees in Jordan who have family members entangled in the persistent conflict in the Gaza strip. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study employed validated tools to assess depression, anxiety, and insomnia in women residing in a Gaza camp located in Jerash, Jordan. The correlates were determined by regression analysis. Results: The study unearths disconcerting statistics from 177 recruited women, revealing alarmingly high rates of severe depression (73%), anxiety (60%), and insomnia (65%). Multivariable analysis revealed that severe depression was significantly associated with prior diagnosis with chronic diseases (OR = 3.0, CI = 1.36-6.58), and having a first-degree relative in Gaza (OR = 0.42, CI = 0.20-0.85). Additionally, severe insomnia was associated with "losing relatives or friends in the war" (OR = 3.01, CI = 1.41-6.44), and "losing connection with families and friends" (OR = 3.89, CI = 1.58-9.53). Conclusions: The implications of these results are profound, underscoring the immediate and imperative need for both medical and psychiatric interventions aimed at addressing the substantial psychological burden borne by this population because of the ongoing conflict.
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Ansiedad , Árabes , Depresión , Trastornos del Inicio y del Mantenimiento del Sueño , Humanos , Femenino , Estudios Transversales , Jordania/epidemiología , Adulto , Trastornos del Inicio y del Mantenimiento del Sueño/epidemiología , Trastornos del Inicio y del Mantenimiento del Sueño/psicología , Prevalencia , Árabes/psicología , Árabes/estadística & datos numéricos , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/etnología , Depresión/psicología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Medio Oriente/etnología , Medio Oriente/epidemiología , Refugiados/psicología , Refugiados/estadística & datos numéricos , Migrantes/psicología , Migrantes/estadística & datos numéricos , Campos de RefugiadosRESUMEN
Background and Objectives: Although physical health is always studied for women with diabetes, the mental health aspect is generally overlooked for this chronic disease. The present study aimed to examine the prevalence of psychosomatic symptoms, namely, fibromyalgia syndrome, depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and how these symptoms related to the medications used in a cohort of women diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (DM) in Jordan. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited women diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and validated scales (PSRS, PHQ-9, GAD-7, and ISI-A) for fibromyalgia syndrome, depression, anxiety, and insomnia were used. The associations between the different medications used and the dependent variables were examined using four separate multivariate logistic regression models. Results: Data were analyzed from 213 participants. Of them, 27.2% met the threshold for fibromyalgia syndrome diagnosis, 38% met the threshold for severe depression, 36.2% met the threshold for severe anxiety, and 39.9% met the threshold for severe insomnia. Fibromyalgia syndrome symptoms were significantly associated with glimepiride (OR = 1.92, CI = 1.00-3.68), ß-blockers (OR = 2.21, CI = 1.03-4.70), diuretics (OR = 3.13, CI = 1.26-7.78), herbal remedies (OR = 2.12, CI = 0.98-4.55), and prescriptions for centrally acting medication (OR = 2.78, CI = 1.24-6.29). Significant associations were found between depression and diuretics (OR = 2.62, CI = 1.05-6.67), over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (OR = 3.49, CI = 1.69-7.23), and herbal remedies (OR = 5.07, CI = 2.40-10.69). In addition, anxiety was significantly related to diuretics (OR = 2.48, CI = 1.02-6.02), and OTC NSAIDs (OR = 2.60, CI = 1.29-5.21). Significant associations were evident between insomnia and ß-blockers (OR = 3.23, CI = 1.51-6.95), acetaminophen (OR = 2.09, CI = 1.06-4.08), NSAIDs (OR = 4.61, CI = 2.18-9.76), and herbal remedies (OR = 5.95, CI = 2.71-13.07). Conclusions: Medications are associated with high burden of fibromyalgia syndrome, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. These findings underscore the importance of revising and optimizing the pharmacotherapy of these vulnerable patients, performing close mental health monitoring and the implementation of non-pharmacological interventions by integrating mental health services for women with chronic diseases such as diabetes.
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Ansiedad , Depresión , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2 , Fibromialgia , Trastornos del Inicio y del Mantenimiento del Sueño , Humanos , Femenino , Fibromialgia/epidemiología , Fibromialgia/psicología , Fibromialgia/complicaciones , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/complicaciones , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/psicología , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/tratamiento farmacológico , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/epidemiología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estudios Transversales , Depresión/epidemiología , Jordania/epidemiología , Trastornos del Inicio y del Mantenimiento del Sueño/epidemiología , Adulto , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Árabes/estadística & datos numéricos , Árabes/psicología , Anciano , Prevalencia , Enfermedad CrónicaRESUMEN
Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in depression. While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like escitalopram are commonly prescribed as first-line treatments, their inconsistent efficacy and delayed onset of action necessitates the exploration of adjunctive therapies. Isorhamnetin, a flavonol, has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that makes exploring its antidepressant effect attractive. This study aims to investigate the adjuvant potential of isorhamnetin in combination with escitalopram to enhance its antidepressant efficacy in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression model using Swiss albino mice. Behavioral paradigms, such as the forced swim test and open field test, were employed to assess depressive symptoms, locomotion, and sedation. Additionally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were utilized to measure Nrf2, BDNF, HO-1, NO, and IL-6 levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The results demonstrate that isorhamnetin significantly improves the antidepressant response of escitalopram, as evidenced by reduced floating time in the forced swim test. Moreover, isorhamnetin enhanced antidepressant effects of escitalopram and effectively restored depleted levels of Nrf2, BDNF, and HO-1 in the cortex caused by LPS-induced depression. Isorhamnetin shows promise in enhancing the efficacy of conventional antidepressant therapy through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Water treatment is crucial in solving the rising people's appetite for water and global water shortages. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have considerable promise for water treatment because of their adjustable and distinctive arbitrary, physical, as well as chemical characteristics. This illustrates the benefits and risks of integrating CNT into the traditional water treatment resource. Due to their outstanding adsorbent ability and chemical and mechanical properties, CNTs have gained global consideration in environmental applications. The desalination and extraction capability of CNT were improved due to chemical or physical modifications in pure CNTs by various functional groups. The CNT-based composites have many benefits, such as antifouling performance, high selectivity, and increased water permeability. Nevertheless, their full-scale implementations are still constrained by their high costs. Functionalized CNTs and their promising nanocomposites to eliminate contaminants are advised for marketing and extensive water/wastewater treatment.
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Nanotubos de Carbono , Purificación del Agua , Humanos , Nanotubos de Carbono/químicaRESUMEN
Background & objectives: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the death rate was reportedly 5-8 fold lower in India which is densely populated as compared to less populated western countries. The aim of this study was to investigate whether dietary habits were associated with the variations in COVID-19 severity and deaths between western and Indian population at the nutrigenomics level. Methods: In this study nutrigenomics approach was applied. Blood transcriptome of severe COVID-19 patients from three western countries (showing high fatality) and two datasets from Indian patients were used. Gene set enrichment analyses were performed for pathways, metabolites, nutrients, etc., and compared for western and Indian samples to identify the food- and nutrient-related factors, which may be associated with COVID-19 severity. Data on the daily consumption of twelve key food components across four countries were collected and a correlation between nutrigenomics analyses and per capita daily dietary intake was investigated. Results: Distinct dietary habits of Indians were observed, which may be associated with low death rate from COVID-19. Increased consumption of red meat, dairy products and processed foods by western populations may increase the severity and death rate by activating cytokine storm-related pathways, intussusceptive angiogenesis, hypercapnia and enhancing blood glucose levels due to high contents of sphingolipids, palmitic acid and byproducts such as CO2 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Palmitic acid also induces ACE2 expression and increases the infection rate. Coffee and alcohol that are highly consumed in western countries may increase the severity and death rates from COVID-19 by deregulating blood iron, zinc and triglyceride levels. The components of Indian diets maintain high iron and zinc concentrations in blood and rich fibre in their foods may prevent CO2 and LPS-mediated COVID-19 severity. Regular consumption of tea by Indians maintains high high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low triglyceride in blood as catechins in tea act as natural atorvastatin. Importantly, regular consumption of turmeric in daily food by Indians maintains strong immunity and curcumin in turmeric may prevent pathways and mechanisms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 severity and lowered the death rate. Interpretation & conclusions: Our results suggest that Indian food components suppress cytokine storm and various other severity related pathways of COVID-19 and may have a role in lowering severity and death rates from COVID-19 in India as compared to western populations. However, large multi-centered case-control studies are required to support our current findings.
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COVID-19 , Ingredientes Alimentarios , Humanos , Nutrigenómica , Dióxido de Carbono , Lipopolisacáridos , Pandemias , Síndrome de Liberación de Citoquinas , Ácido Palmítico , SARS-CoV-2 , Dieta/métodos , Conducta Alimentaria , Zinc , Té , Hierro , TriglicéridosRESUMEN
Curcumin is a natural component extracted from the rhizomes of turmeric (Curcuma longa), a natural plat with known medicinal uses for more than 4000 years. Most turmeric therapeutic effects are attributed to curcumin, a yellow-coloured extract. Curcumin has received considerable attention due to its biological activities, such as its use in arthritis, liver and neurodegenerative diseases, obesity, and several types of cancers. Most of these curcumin therapeutic activities are related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the clinical application of curcumin is hampered by some limitations that prevent its extensive clinical application. Curcumin high hydrophobicity of curcumin and limited water solubility are among the most important limitations. This poor solubility will result in low bioavailability due to its poor absorption into plasma and the target tissues. Curcumin also has rapid metabolism, which will significantly lower its bioavailability and shorten its half-life. Moreover, curcumin is photosensitive with limited chemical stability during manufacturing and storage. These limitations have been overcome by applying nanotechnology using several types of nanoparticles (NPs). This includes using NPs such as liposomes, niosomes, gold nanoparticles, and many others to improve the curcumin solubility and bioavailability. This review focuses on the different types of NPs investigated and the outcomes generated by their use in the most recent studies in this field. To follow the latest advances in the field of site-specific drug delivery using nanomaterials, an electronic databases search was conducted using PubMed, Google scholar and Scopus using the following keywords: lipid-based nanoparticles, curcumin delivery, niosomes, and liposomes.
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Curcumina , Nanopartículas del Metal , Curcumina/uso terapéutico , Liposomas , Oro , Sistemas de Liberación de MedicamentosRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the acute and chronic adverse effects of â¼50 nm (nanometer) gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) synthesized using Ziziphus zizyphus leaf extract in mice. SIGNIFICANCE: AuNPs have shown promise for medical applications, but their safety and biocompatibility need to be addressed. Understanding the potential adverse effects of AuNPs is crucial to ensure their safe use in medical applications. METHODS: The â¼50 nm AuNPs were synthesized using Ziziphus zizyphus leaf extract and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential analysis. Mice were subjected to a single intraperitoneal injection of AuNPs at a dose of 1 g/mg (grams per milligram) or a daily dose of 1 mg/kg for 28 days. Various parameters, including gold bioaccumulation, survival, behavior, body weight, and blood glucose levels, were measured. Histopathological changes and organ indices were assessed. RESULTS: Gold levels in the blood and heart did not significantly increase with daily administration of AuNPs. However, there were proportional increases in gold content observed in the liver, spleen, and kidney, indicating effective tissue uptake. Histopathological alterations were predominantly observed in the kidney, suggesting potential tissue injury. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study indicate that â¼50 nm AuNPs synthesized using Z. zizyphus leaf extract can induce adverse effects, particularly in the kidney, in mice. These results highlight the importance of addressing safety concerns when using AuNPs in medical applications. Further investigations that encompass a comprehensive set of toxicological parameters are necessary to confirm the long-term adverse effects of AuNP exposure.
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Oro , Nanopartículas del Metal , Ratones , Animales , Oro/toxicidad , Nanopartículas del Metal/toxicidad , Riñón , Hígado , Extractos Vegetales/toxicidadRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: This article critically reviews recent research on the use of trimetallic nanomaterials for the fabrication of non-enzymatic glucose sensors (NEGS), also known as fourth-generation glucose sensors (FGGS). SIGNIFICANCE: Diabetes is a prevalent chronic disease worldwide, and glucose monitoring is crucial for its management. However, conventional enzymatic glucose sensors suffer from several technological drawbacks, and there is a need to develop new-generation glucose sensors that can overcome these limitations. NEGS, particularly those composed of trimetallic nanocomposites, have demonstrated promising results in terms of improved shelf life, higher sensitivity, and simplicity of operation during glucose measurement. METHODS: In this review, we discuss the different trimetallic nanomaterials developed and used by researchers in recent years for glucose detection, including their mechanisms of action. We also provide a brief discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of FGGS-based trimetallic nanomaterials, as well as the industrial challenges in this area of research. RESULTS: Trimetallic nanomaterials for FGGS have shown excellent reproducibility and high stability, making them suitable for continuous glucose monitoring. The different types of trimetallic nanomaterials have varying sensing properties, and their performance can be tuned by controlling their synthesis parameters. CONCLUSION: Trimetallic nanomaterials are a promising avenue for the development of FGGS, recent research has demonstrated their potential for glucose monitoring. However, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed before their widespread adoption, such as their long-term stability and cost-effectiveness. Further research in this area is needed to overcome these challenges and to develop commercially viable FGGS for diabetes management.
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Técnicas Biosensibles , Diabetes Mellitus , Nanocompuestos , Humanos , Glucemia , Automonitorización de la Glucosa Sanguínea , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Técnicas Biosensibles/métodos , Diabetes Mellitus/diagnóstico , GlucosaRESUMEN
Plant viruses have traditionally been studied as pathogens in the context of understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of a particular disease affecting crops. In recent years, viruses have emerged as a new alternative for producing biological nanomaterials and chimeric vaccines. Plant viruses were also used to generate highly efficient expression vectors, revolutionizing plant molecular farming (PMF). Several biological products, including recombinant vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, diagnostic reagents, and other pharmaceutical products produced in plants, have passed their clinical trials and are in their market implementation stage. PMF offers opportunities for fast, adaptive, and low-cost technology to meet ever-growing and critical global health needs. In this review, we summarized the advancements in the virus-like particles-based (VLPs-based) nanotechnologies and the role they played in the production of advanced vaccines, drugs, diagnostic bio-nanomaterials, and other bioactive cargos. We also highlighted various applications and advantages plant-produced vaccines have and their relevance for treating human and animal illnesses. Furthermore, we summarized the plant-based biologics that have passed through clinical trials, the unique challenges they faced, and the challenges they will face to qualify, become available, and succeed on the market.
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Agricultura Molecular , Virus de Plantas , Animales , Humanos , Plantas Modificadas Genéticamente/metabolismo , Vacunas Sintéticas , Virus de Plantas/genética , Anticuerpos Monoclonales/metabolismoRESUMEN
Ran is a member of the Ras superfamily of proteins, which primarily regulates nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and mediates mitosis by regulating spindle formation and nuclear envelope (NE) reassembly. Therefore, Ran is an integral cell fate determinant. It has been demonstrated that aberrant Ran expression in cancer is a result of upstream dysregulation of the expression of various factors, such as osteopontin (OPN), and aberrant activation of various signaling pathways, including the extracellular-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MEK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathways. In vitro, Ran overexpression has severe effects on the cell phenotype, altering proliferation, adhesion, colony density, and invasion. Therefore, Ran overexpression has been identified in numerous types of cancer and has been shown to correlate with tumor grade and the degree of metastasis present in various cancers. The increased malignancy and invasiveness have been attributed to multiple mechanisms. Increased dependence on Ran for spindle formation and mitosis is a consequence of the upregulation of these pathways and the ensuing overexpression of Ran, which increases cellular dependence on Ran for survival. This increases the sensitivity of cells to changes in Ran concentration, with ablation being associated with aneuploidy, cell cycle arrest, and ultimately, cell death. It has also been demonstrated that Ran dysregulation influences nucleocytoplasmic transport, leading to transcription factor misallocation. Consequently, patients with tumors that overexpress Ran have been shown to have a higher malignancy rate and a shorter survival time compared to their counterparts.
Asunto(s)
GTP Fosfohidrolasas , Neoplasias , Humanos , GTP Fosfohidrolasas/genética , Fosfatidilinositol 3-Quinasas/metabolismo , Proteína de Unión al GTP ran/genética , Neoplasias/patología , FenotipoRESUMEN
Plants are increasingly used for the production of high-quality biological molecules for use as pharmaceuticals and biomaterials in industry. Plants have proved that they can produce life-saving therapeutic proteins (Elelyso™-Gaucher's disease treatment, ZMapp™-anti-Ebola monoclonal antibodies, seasonal flu vaccine, Covifenz™-SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle vaccine); however, some of these therapeutic proteins are difficult to bring to market, which leads to serious difficulties for the manufacturing companies. The closure of one of the leading companies in the sector (the Canadian biotech company Medicago Inc., producer of Covifenz) as a result of the withdrawal of investments from the parent company has led to the serious question: What is hindering the exploitation of plant-made biologics to improve health outcomes? Exploring the vast potential of plants as biological factories, this review provides an updated perspective on plant-derived biologics (PDB). A key focus is placed on the advancements in plant-based expression systems and highlighting cutting-edge technologies that streamline the production of complex protein-based biologics. The versatility of plant-derived biologics across diverse fields, such as human and animal health, industry, and agriculture, is emphasized. This review also meticulously examines regulatory considerations specific to plant-derived biologics, shedding light on the disparities faced compared to biologics produced in other systems.
Asunto(s)
Vacunas contra la Influenza , Plantas , Animales , Humanos , Canadá , Preparaciones Farmacéuticas/metabolismo , Plantas Modificadas Genéticamente/metabolismoRESUMEN
Nanomaterials have been the focus of intensive development and research in the medical and industrial sectors over the past several decades. Some studies have found that these compounds can have a detrimental impact on living organisms, including their cellular components. Despite the obvious advantages of using nanomaterials in a wide range of applications, there is sometimes skepticism caused by the lack of substantial proof that evaluates potential toxicities. The interactions of nanoparticles (NPs) with cells of the immune system and their biomolecule pathways are an area of interest for researchers. It is possible to modify NPs so that they are not recognized by the immune system or so that they suppress or stimulate the immune system in a targeted manner. In this review, we look at the literature on nanomaterials for immunostimulation and immunosuppression and their impact on how changing the physicochemical features of the particles could alter their interactions with immune cells for the better or for the worse (immunotoxicity). We also look into whether the NPs have a unique or unexpected (but desired) effect on the immune system, and whether the surface grafting of polymers or surface coatings makes stealth nanomaterials that the immune system cannot find and get rid of.
Asunto(s)
Nanopartículas , Nanoestructuras , Nanoestructuras/toxicidad , Nanopartículas/química , Sistema Inmunológico , Polímeros/química , InmunizaciónRESUMEN
This review explores recent advancements and applications of 3D printing in healthcare, with a focus on personalized medicine, tissue engineering, and medical device production. It also assesses economic, environmental, and ethical considerations. In our review of the literature, we employed a comprehensive search strategy, utilizing well-known databases like PubMed and Google Scholar. Our chosen keywords encompassed essential topics, including 3D printing, personalized medicine, nanotechnology, and related areas. We first screened article titles and abstracts and then conducted a detailed examination of selected articles without imposing any date limitations. The articles selected for inclusion, comprising research studies, clinical investigations, and expert opinions, underwent a meticulous quality assessment. This methodology ensured the incorporation of high-quality sources, contributing to a robust exploration of the role of 3D printing in the realm of healthcare. The review highlights 3D printing's potential in healthcare, including customized drug delivery systems, patient-specific implants, prosthetics, and biofabrication of organs. These innovations have significantly improved patient outcomes. Integration of nanotechnology has enhanced drug delivery precision and biocompatibility. 3D printing also demonstrates cost-effectiveness and sustainability through optimized material usage and recycling. The healthcare sector has witnessed remarkable progress through 3D printing, promoting a patient-centric approach. From personalized implants to radiation shielding and drug delivery systems, 3D printing offers tailored solutions. Its transformative applications, coupled with economic viability and sustainability, have the potential to revolutionize healthcare. Addressing material biocompatibility, standardization, and ethical concerns is essential for responsible adoption.