DNA damage repair in megakaryopoiesis: molecular and clinical aspects.

INTRODUCTION: Endogenous DNA damage is a significant factor in the damage of hematopoietic cells. Megakaryopoiesis is one of the pathways of hematopoiesis that ends with the production of platelets and plays the most crucial role in hemostasis. Despite the presence of efficient DNA repair mechanisms, some endogenous lesions can lead to mutagenic alterations, disruption of pathways of hematopoiesis including megakaryopoiesis and potentially result in human diseases. AREAS COVERED: The complex regulation of DNA repair mechanisms plays a central role in maintaining genomic integrity during megakaryopoiesis and influences platelet production efficiency and quality. Moreover, anomalies in DNA repair processes are involved in several diseases associated with megakaryopoiesis, including myeloproliferative disorders and thrombocytopenia. EXPERT OPINION: In the era of personalized medicine, diagnosing diseases related to megakaryopoiesis can only be made with a complete assessment of their molecular aspects to provide physicians with critical molecular data for patient management and to identify the subset of patients who could benefit from targeted therapy.

Meta-Analytical and Meta-Regression Evaluation of Subclinical Hyperthyroidism's Effect on Male Reproductive Health: Hormonal and Seminal Perspectives.

Subclinical hyperthyroidism (SCH) is a subtle thyroid dysfunction marked by decreased serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels while maintaining a normal thyroid hormone profile. Despite its mild nature, SCH can significantly impact various physiological functions, including male reproductive health. However, the effects of SCH on reproductive hormones and semen quality are less understood compared to overt thyroid disorders. This study employed extensive search methods across various databases from January 2000 to February 2024 to explore the relationship between SCH and Hormonal and Seminal Perspectives. Effect sizes, estimated using the standardized mean difference (SMD) and pooled with a Random-effect model, provided significant insights from 748 participants. Included studies adhered to the following criteria: Patients (male individuals with SCH), Intervention (assessment of reproductive hormones and semen quality), Comparison (SCH patients versus healthy controls), and Outcome (changes in reproductive factors). Significant alterations in reproductive hormones were observed in SCH patients, including reduced LH levels (SMD = - 0.20; p = 0.007), elevated FSH levels (SMD = 0.25; p = 0.002), and stable testosterone levels (SMD = - 0.05; p = 0.50). Regarding thyroid profile, SCH was associated with increased FT3 (SMD = 0.15; p < 0.001) and FT4 (SMD = 0.08; p = 0.002) levels, along with decreased TSH levels (SMD = - 2.00; p < 0.001). Adverse effects on semen quality were also observed. These findings underscore the need to incorporate thyroid health assessments in the evaluation of male infertility, recognizing the impact of minor thyroid hormone deviations on reproductive outcomes.

Genetic variants of dectin-1 and their antifungal immunity impact in hematologic malignancies: A comprehensive systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Fungal infections pose a significant threat to individuals with hematologic malignancies due to compromised immune systems. Dectin-1, a pivotal pattern recognition receptor, plays a central role in antifungal immune responses. Understanding its genetic variants' impact is crucial for advancing personalized therapeutic approaches. METHODS: Employing systematic review methods, studies were meticulously selected and assessed for relevance. Data extraction encompassed Dectin-1 genetic variants, antifungal immune responses, and disease outcomes. RESULTS: Findings unveiled a complex relationship between Dectin-1 genetic variants and antifungal immunity in hematologic malignancies. Variable associations emerged, influencing susceptibility to fungal infections and disease prognosis. Moreover, implications for treatment outcomes were explored, suggesting potential avenues for tailored interventions. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review underscores the need for further investigation into the precise influence of Dectin-1 genetic variants on antifungal immunity and disease progression in hematologic malignancies. Insights gained could pave the way for personalized therapeutic strategies, optimizing infection prevention and malignancy management. By delving into the intricate connections between genetic nuances, immune responses, and clinical trajectories, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding hematologic malignancies, fungal infections, and their multifaceted interplay.

Circulating Galectin-3 levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A meta-analysis.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by multifactorial and intricate pathogenesis. The discovery of novel markers has been a significant step toward understanding the mechanisms of PCOS. Galectin-3 has emerged as a novel factor in metabolic disorders. This meta-analysis examines the association between circulating Galectin-3 and PCOS. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to identify relevant articles in the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. The search covered the period from January 2000 to March 2023 and followed a predefined search strategy. Eight articles were included in the analysis with a total of 594 participants (322 patients with PCOS and 272 controls). Pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95 % confidence interval [CI] were used to evaluate the association between Galectin-3 levels and PCOS. The results indicated a significant association between PCOS and galectin-3 levels (SMD = 0.58; 95 % CI: 0.15-1.01; p = 0.007). In addition, subgroup analysis showed a significant difference in serum Galectin-3 levels in women with PCOS and a higher homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance ratio (SMD = 0.89; 95 % CI: 0.45-1.33; p < 0.001). The researchers also performed meta-regression and subgroup analyses to specify sources of heterogeneity. The results of our meta-analysis suggest an association between increased levels of galectin-3 and PCOS. Galectin-3 plays a significant role in the progression of PCOS and could be used as a novel diagnostic biomarker. Nevertheless, it is essential to perform further studies to confirm and support our conclusions.

Association of Free Radical Product and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that primarily affects women of reproductive age. It is recognized as the leading cause of infertility due to anovulation. This research aims to evaluate the diagnostic potential of oxidative stress biomarkers, including advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), malondialdehyde (MDA), uric acid (UA), and nitric oxide (NO), in identifying PCOS. METHODS: A literature search was conducted in the EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases. The standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were employed to assess the correlation between free radical product and PCOS. Moreover, the presence of heterogeneity among the studies was assessed utilizing the I2 statistic and Cochran Q test. The methodological rigor of the incorporated studies was assessed through the application of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Furthermore, the presence of publication bias was determined via Begg and Egger tests. RESULTS: This meta-analysis reviewed 38 observational studies, including 17,845 women. The results revealed a significant association between PCOS in women and alterations in free radical levels. The study revealed that the PCOS group had significantly higher levels of AOPP (SMD = 3.193; 95% CI, 2.86 to 3.25), UA (SMD = 0.68; 95% CI, 0.24 to 1.13), and MDA (SMD = 1.16; 95% CI, 0.77 to 1.56) compared to the healthy control group. Furthermore, the analysis found a significantly lower level of NO (SMD = (- 0.59); 95% CI, - 1.15 to - 0.03) in the PCOS patient. CONCLUSION: Screening of specific biomarkers associated with free radical products could provide valuable benefits in the prognosis and diagnosis of PCOS.

Circulating nesfatin-1 levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in females. Nesfatin-1 is a neuropeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus and other peripheral organs, and there are conflicting opinions about its correlation with PCOS. Objective: This study aims to investigate the correlation between nesfatin-1 and PCOS and evaluates the effectiveness of nesfatin-1 as a biomarker for the detection of PCOS in women. Materials and Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to identify pertinent articles from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random effects model to compare group outcomes. Additionally, meta-regression and subgroup analysis were performed to elucidate sources of heterogeneity. Results: The meta-analysis involved 12 studies with 1222 participants, and the findings revealed a significant relationship between PCOS and nesfatin-1 levels. The pooled (SMD = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.00-1.07; p = 0.04) indicated a significant difference between the evaluated groups. Moreover, a subgroup analysis showed that there was a substantial difference in nesfatin-1 levels among women with PCOS and higher homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance ratio (SMD = 1.46; 95% CI: 0.92-2.00; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our meta-analysis indicates an association between high nesfatin-1 levels and PCOS. This suggests a potential role of nesfatin-1 in the development of PCOS and proposes it as a potential diagnostic biomarker for the disease. However, further research is necessary to validate these findings.