Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles for metabolic syndrome therapy: Assessing efficacy with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a cluster of metabolic abnormalities. The prevalence of MetS has surged, transforming it into a pressing public health concern that could potentially affect around 20%-25% of the global population. As MetS continues its ascent, diverse interventions, pharmacological, nonpharmacological and combined have been deployed. Yet, a comprehensive remedy that fully eradicates MetS symptoms remains elusive, compounded by the risks of polypharmacy's emergence. Acknowledging the imperative to grasp MetS's intricate pathologies, deeper insights for future research and therapy optimisation become paramount. Conventional treatments often target specific syndrome elements. However, a novel approach emerges in mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) therapy, promising a holistic shift. MSC-EVs, tiny membranous vesicles secreted by mesenchymal stem cells, have garnered immense attention for their multifaceted bioactivity and regenerative potential. Their ability to modulate inflammation, enhance tissue repair and regulate metabolic pathways has prompted researchers to explore their therapeutic application in MetS. This review primarily aims to provide an overview of how MSC-EVs therapy can improve metabolic parameters in subjects with MetS disease and also introduce the usefulness of NMR spectroscopy in assessing the efficacy of MSC-EVs therapy for treating MetS.

Practice and knowledge of dietary supplement consumption among Indonesian adults post-delta wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background: Increasing dietary supplement (DS) consumption was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including during the post-Delta wave period. This study aimed to measure the practice of DS consumption and respondents' knowledge of DS. Methods: An internet-based survey was distributed from October-December 2021 and obtained 541 valid and completed responses. Descriptive analysis was performed to present the practice of DS consumption, including frequency, duration, aim, preferable dosage form etc. Level of knowledge on DS principles, side effects and regulation were also measured. Inferential analyses were conducted to determine the predictors of the respondents' DS practice and level of knowledge. Results: Data from 541 valid responses showed that 77.63% of respondents consumed DS in the last 3 months, with only 59.52% reporting also consuming DS before the COVID-19 pandemic. One half of the respondents had good knowledge about DS; however, some knowledge regarding side effects and possible drug-supplement interaction needed improvement. Their DS consumption practice was affected by their economic status and history of contracting COVID-19. Nevertheless, the level of knowledge was not affected by the sociodemographic factors and DS supplement experience. Conclusions: Taken together, the practice of self-consumption of DS in Indonesia is increasing; hence, knowledge of DS is necessary to avoid detrimental effects that might occur in the future. Increasing access to information on better labelling and educating consumers about DS are important actions to consider.