Polyphenol-Mediated Modulation of Non-Coding RNAs: A New Therapeutic Approach for Hypertension - A Review.

Hypertension (HTN) is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Conventional pharmacological treatments have been effective but are often accompanied by side effects and do not address all pathological aspects of the disease. Recent advances in molecular biology have identified non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), as key regulators in the pathogenesis of hypertension. These ncRNAs influence various cellular processes, such as gene expression, vascular tone, and inflammation, making them promising targets for therapeutic intervention. This review explores the potential of polyphenols, a diverse group of phytochemicals with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, in modulating ncRNA expression and function. We discuss how polyphenols, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), resveratrol, curcumin, and quercetin impact the regulation of ncRNAs, particularly focusing on their roles in reducing oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and ameliorating vascular remodeling associated with hypertension. The review synthesizes current evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies, highlighting significant findings and the mechanisms by which polyphenols exert their effects on ncRNA-mediated pathways. Moreover, we address the challenges of translating these findings into clinical applications, including issues related to bioavailability, dosing, and the complex interactions of polyphenols with other cellular components. Future directions for research are suggested, with an emphasis on the need for comprehensive clinical trials to establish the efficacy of polyphenol-based therapies targeting ncRNAs in hypertension management. By targeting ncRNAs, polyphenols offer a novel therapeutic strategy that could enhance the treatment landscape for hypertension and potentially other cardiovascular conditions.

Comparative Analysis of Circular RNAs Expression and Function between Aortic and Intracranial Aneurysms.

An aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement or bulging of the wall of a blood vessel. Most often, aneurysms occur in large blood vessels - the aorta (Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA) and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) and brain vessels (Intracranial Aneurysm (IA)). Despite the presence of significant differences in the pathogenesis of the development and progression of IA and TAA/AAA, there are also similarities. For instance, both have been shown to be strongly influenced by shear stress, inflammatory processes, and enzymatic destruction of the elastic lamellae and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins of the vascular wall. Moreover, although IA and TAA are predominantly considered arteriopathies with different pathological mechanisms, they share risk factors with AAA, such as hypertension and smoking. However, there is a need for a more in- -depth study of the key elements that may influence the formation and progression of a particular aneurysm to find ways of therapeutic intervention or search for a diagnostic tool. Today, it is known that the disruption of gene expression is one of the main mechanisms that contribute to the development of aneurysms. At the same time, growing evidence suggests that aberrant epigenetic regulation of gene function is strongly related to the genesis of aneurysms. Although much has been studied of the known protein-coding genes, circular RNAs (circRNAs), a relatively new and rapidly evolving large family of transcripts, have recently received much scientific attention. CircRNAs regulate gene expression through the sponging of microRNAs (miRNAs) and can also be used as therapeutic targets and biomarkers. Increasing evidence has implicated circRNAs in the pathogenesis of multiple cardiovascular diseases, including the development of aneurysms. However, the mechanism of dysregulation of certain circRNAs in a particular aneurysm remains to be studied. The discovery of circRNAs has recently advanced our understanding of the latest mode of miRNAs/target genes regulation in the development and progression of IA and TAA/AAA. The aim of this study is to compare the expression profiles of circRNAs to search for similar or different effects of certain circRNAs on the formation and progression of IA and TAA/AAA.

Bioinformatics Analysis Screening and Identification of Key Biomarkers and Drug Targets in Human Glioblastoma.

BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma is the most common type of brain cancer, with a prognosis that is unfortunately poor. Despite considerable progress in the field, the intricate molecular basis of this cancer remains elusive. AIM: The aim of this study was to identify genetic indicators of glioblastoma and reveal the processes behind its development. OBJECTIVE: The advent and integration of supercomputing technology have led to a significant advancement in gene expression analysis platforms. Microarray analysis has gained recognition for its pivotal role in oncology, crucial for the molecular categorization of tumors, diagnosis, prognosis, stratification of patients, forecasting tumor responses, and pinpointing new targets for drug discovery. Numerous databases dedicated to cancer research, including the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, have been established. Identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and key genes deepens our understanding of the initiation of glioblastoma, potentially unveiling novel markers for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as targets for the treatment of glioblastoma. METHODS: This research sought to discover genes implicated in the development and progression of glioblastoma by analyzing microarray datasets GSE13276, GSE14805, and GSE109857 from the GEO database. DEGs were identified, and a function enrichment analysis was performed. Additionally, a protein-protein interaction network (PPI) was constructed, followed by module analysis using the tools STRING and Cytoscape. RESULTS: The analysis yielded 88 DEGs, consisting of 66 upregulated and 22 downregulated genes. These genes' functions and pathways primarily involved microtubule activity, mitotic cytokinesis, cerebral cortex development, localization of proteins to the kinetochore, and the condensation of chromosomes during mitosis. A group of 27 pivotal genes was pinpointed, with biological process analysis indicating significant enrichment in activities, such as division of the nucleus during mitosis, cell division, maintaining cohesion between sister chromatids, segregation of sister chromatids during mitosis, and cytokinesis. The survival analysis indicated that certain genes, including PCNA clamp-associated factor (PCLAF), ribonucleoside- diphosphate reductase subunit M2 (RRM2), nucleolar and spindle-associated protein 1 (NUSAP1), and kinesin family member 23 (KIF23), could be instrumental in the development, invasion, or recurrence of glioblastoma. CONCLUSION: The identification of DEGs and key genes in this study advances our comprehension of the molecular pathways that contribute to the oncogenesis and progression of glioblastoma. This research provides valuable insights into potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for glioblastoma.

Lamiales epidermal dynamics: Unveiling antimicrobial resilience in a structural symphony.

This research on Lamiales epidermal anatomy not only provides in-depth understanding of their structural traits but also highlights the significance of uncovering the inherent antimicrobial resilience embedded within these plants. Such insights hold promise for advancing natural product-based approaches in medicine, potentially contributing to the development of novel antimicrobial agents inspired by Lamiales unique biological defense mechanisms. Scanning microscopic tools were utilized to conduct foliar epidermal anatomy of nine species that belong to seven genera and four families within the Lamiales order, Plantaginaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Verbenaceae, and Lamiaceae. This approach aimed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data, facilitating the assessment of taxonomic microanatomical significance. The shape of epidermal cells and their anticlinal walls; number of epidermal cells, stomata, and trichomes; type of stomata and trichomes; length and width of epidermal cells, trichomes, stomatal pore, guard cells, and subsidiary cells; and stomatal index were determined statistically. Most of the species examined were amphistomatous and showed extensive array of trichomes diversity. The exploration of Lamiales epidermal micromorphology and their antimicrobial potential were significant for their implications in multidisciplinary fields. The pharmacological research to utilize sustainable agricultural practices prompts avenues to strengths of Lamiales order for the development of novel antimicrobial solutions and ecological benefits. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Diverse trichome morphometry reveals a wide array of trichome structures across Lamiales species. Epidermal microscopic architecture variability of epidermal cell shapes and sizes signifies the interspecies variability. Secondary metabolite localization within microanatomical structures elucidates potential hotspots for antimicrobial compound production.

Therapeutic application of adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction in myocardial infarction.

The insufficiency of natural regeneration processes in higher organisms, including humans, underlies myocardial infarction (MI), which is one of the main causes of disability and mortality in the population of developed countries. The solution to this problem lies in the field of revealing the mechanisms of regeneration and creating on this basis new technologies for stimulating endogenous regenerative processes or replacing lost parts of tissues and organs with transplanted cells. Of great interest is the use of the so-called stromal vascular fraction (SVF), derived from autologous adipose tissue. It is known that the main functions of SVF are angiogenetic, antiapoptotic, antifibrotic, immune regulation, anti-inflammatory, and trophic. This study presents data on the possibility of using SVF, targeted regulation of its properties and reparative potential, as well as the results of research studies on its use for the restoration of damaged ischemic tissue after MI.

Assessment of the botanical origin of Saudi Arabian honey samples to identify pollen with chromatographic tools and packing and storage.

The increasing demand for honey purification and authentication necessitates the global utilization of advanced processing tools. Common honey processing techniques, such as chromatography, are commonly used to assess the quality and quantity of valuable honey. In this study, 15 honey samples were authenticated using HPLC and GC-MS chromatographic methods to analyze their pollen spectrum. Various monofloral honey samples were collected, including Acacia, Hypoestes, Lavandula, Tamarix, Trifolium, and Ziziphus species, based on accurate identification by apiarists in 2023 from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Honey analysis revealed the extraction of pollen from 20 different honeybee floral species. Pollen identified from honey samples using advanced chromatographic tools revealed dominant vegetation resources: Ziziphus species (23%), Acacia species (25%), Tamarix species (34%), Lavandula species (26%), Hypoestes species (34%), and Trifolium species (31%). This study uses HPLC to extract phenolic compounds, revealing dominant protocatechuic acid (4.71 mg g-1), and GC-MS to analyze organic compounds in honey pollen. Specifically, 2-dodecanone was detected with a retention time of 7.34 min. The utilization of chromatographic tools in assessing honey samples for pollen identification provides a reliable and efficient method for determining their botanical origins, thereby contributing to the quality control and authentication of honey products.

MicroRNAs in meningiomas: Potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Meningiomas, characterized primarily as benign intracranial or spinal tumors, present distinctive challenges due to their variable clinical behavior, with certain cases exhibiting aggressive features linked to elevated morbidity and mortality. Despite their prevalence, the underlying molecular mechanisms governing the initiation and progression of meningiomas remain insufficiently understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small endogenous non-coding RNAs orchestrating post-transcriptional gene expression, have garnered substantial attention in this context. They emerge as pivotal biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets, offering innovative avenues for managing meningiomas. Recent research delves into the intricate mechanisms by which miRNAs contribute to meningioma pathogenesis, unraveling the molecular complexities of this enigmatic tumor. Meningiomas, originating from arachnoid meningothelial cells and known for their gradual growth, constitute a significant portion of intracranial tumors. The clinical challenge lies in comprehending their progression, particularly factors associated with brain invasion and heightened recurrence rates, which remain elusive. This comprehensive review underscores the pivotal role of miRNAs, accentuating their potential to advance our comprehension of meningioma biology. Furthermore, it suggests promising directions for developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic interventions, holding the promise of markedly improved patient outcomes in the face of this intricate and variable disease.

MiRNAs as new potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in brain metastasis.

Brain metastases represent a formidable challenge in cancer management, impacting a significant number of patients and contributing significantly to cancer-related mortality. Conventional diagnostic methods frequently fall short, underscoring the imperative for non-invasive alternatives. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), specifically microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), present promising avenues for exploration. These ncRNAs exert influence over the prognosis and treatment resistance of brain metastases, offering valuable insights into underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Dysregulated ncRNAs have been identified in brain metastases originating from various primary cancers, unveiling opportunities for intervention and prevention. The analysis of ncRNA expression in bodily fluids, such as serum and cerebrospinal fluid, provides a noninvasive means to differentiate brain metastases from primary tumors. NcRNAs, particularly miRNAs, assume a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune response within the brain microenvironment. MiRNAs exhibit promise in diagnosing brain metastases, effectively distinguishing between normal and cancer cells, and pinpointing the tissue of origin for metastatic brain tumors. The manipulation of miRNAs holds substantial potential in cancer treatment, offering the prospect of reducing toxicity and enhancing efficacy. Given the limited treatment options and the formidable threat of brain metastases in cancer patients, non-coding RNAs, especially miRNAs, emerge as beacons of hope, serving as both diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets. Further clinical studies are imperative to validate the specificity and sensitivity of ncRNAs, potentially reshaping approaches to tackle this challenge and elevate treatment outcomes for affected patients.

Recent progresses in natural based therapeutic materials for Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder that causes increased memory loss, mood swings, behavioral disorders, and disruptions in daily activities. Polymer scaffolds for the brain have been grown under laboratory, physiological, and pathological circumstances because of the limitations of conventional treatments for patients with central nervous system diseases. The blood-brain barrier prevents medications from entering the brain, challenging AD treatment. Numerous biomaterials such as biomolecules, polymers, inorganic metals, and metal oxide nanoparticles have been used to transport therapeutic medicines into the nervous system. Incorporating biocompatible materials that support neurogenesis through a combination of topographical, pharmacological, and mechanical stimuli has also shown promise for the transfer of cells to replenish dopaminergic neurons. Components made of naturally occurring biodegradable polymers are appropriate for the regeneration of nerve tissue. The ability of natural-based materials (biomaterials) has been shown to promote endogenous cell development after implantation. Also, strategic functionalization of polymeric nanocarriers could be employed for treating AD. In particular, nanoparticles could resolve Aß aggregation and thus help cure Alzheimer's disease. Drug moieties can be effectively directed to the brain by utilizing nano-based systems and diverse colloidal carriers, including hydrogels and biodegradable scaffolds. Notably, early investigations employing neural stem cells have yielded promising results, further emphasizing the potential advancements in this field. Few studies have fully leveraged the combination of cells with cutting-edge biomaterials. This study provides a comprehensive overview of prior research, highlighting the pivotal role of biomaterials as sophisticated drug carriers. It delves into various intelligent drug delivery systems, encompassing pH and thermo-triggered mechanisms, polymeric and lipid carriers, inorganic nanoparticles, and other vectors. The discussion synthesizes existing knowledge and underscores the transformative impact of these biomaterials in devising innovative strategies, augmenting current therapeutic methodologies, and shaping new paradigms in the realm of Alzheimer's disease treatment.

Integrative bioinformatics analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression profiles and identification of associated miRNA-mRNA network in intracranial aneurysms.

Background: Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) represent protrusions in the vascular wall, with their growth and wall thinning influenced by various factors. These processes can culminate in the rupture of the aneurysm, leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Unfortunately, over half of the patients prove unable to withstand SAH, succumbing to adverse outcomes despite intensive therapeutic interventions, even in premier medical facilities. This study seeks to discern the pivotal microRNAs (miRNAs) and genes associated with the formation and progression of IAs. Methods: The investigation gathered expression data of miRNAs (from GSE66240) and mRNAs (from GSE158558) within human aneurysm tissue and superficial temporal artery (STA) samples, categorizing them into IA and normal groups. This classification was based on the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Results: A total of 70 differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) and 815 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) were pinpointed concerning IA. Subsequently, a miRNA-mRNA network was constructed, incorporating 9 significantly upregulated DEMs and 211 significantly downregulated DEGs. Simultaneously, functional enrichment and pathway analyses were conducted on both DEMs and DEGs. Through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and functional enrichment, 9 significantly upregulated DEMs (hsa-miR-188-5p, hsa-miR-590-5p, hsa-miR-320b, hsa-miR-423-5p, hsa-miR-140-5p, hsa-miR-486-5p, hsa-miR-320a, hsa-miR-342-3p, and hsa-miR-532-5p) and 50 key genes (such as ATP6V1G1, KBTBD6, VIM, PA2G4, DYNLL1, METTL21A, MDH2, etc.) were identified, suggesting their potential significant role in IA. Among these genes, ten were notably negatively regulated by at least two key miRNAs. Conclusions: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the potential pathogenic mechanisms underlying IA by elucidating a miRNA-mRNA network. This comprehensive approach sheds light on the intricate interplay between miRNAs and genes, offering a deeper understanding of the molecular dynamics involved in IA development and progression.

Risk Factors for Cerebral Hyperperfusion Syndrome After Combined Revascularization in Adult Patients with Moyamoya Disease.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome (CHS) is known as a complication after bypass surgery for Moyamoya disease (MMD). However, the incidence of CHS has not been accurately reported, and there is no consensus on the risk factors associated with it. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors associated with postoperative CHS after surgical combined revascularization used to treat adult patients with MMD. OBJECTIVE: To assess the frequency and characteristics of CHS in patients with MMD after revascularization operations. METHODS: Patients who received combined revascularization from Jan 2021 to Nov 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative clinical characteristics and radiographic features were recorded. Postoperative CHS after surgery were examined. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for CHS. RESULTS: A total of 133 patients (141 hemispheres) were included in this study. Postoperative CHS were observed in 28 hemispheres (19.8%), including focal cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome (FCHS) in 20 hemispheres (14.2%), hemorrhage in 4 (2.8%) hemispheres, seizures in 4 (2.8%) hemispheres. The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that preoperative hypertension (OR 4.705, 95% CI 1.323 ~ 12.554, p = 0.014), cerebral hemorrhage onset (OR 5.390, 95% CI 1.408 ~ 20.642, p = 0.014) and higher Hct level (OR 1.171, 95% CI 1.051 ~ 1.305, p = 0.004) were significantly associated with CHS after combined revascularization. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative hypertension, cerebral hemorrhage onset, and higher Hct level were independent risk factors for CHS after combined revascularization.

MiRNAs as potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage.

Non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most common type of hemorrhagic stroke, most often occurring between the ages of 45 and 60. Hypertension is most often the cause of ICH. Less often, atherosclerosis, blood diseases, inflammatory changes in cerebral vessels, intoxication, vitamin deficiencies, and other reasons cause hemorrhages. Cerebral hemorrhage can occur by diapedesis or as a result of a ruptured vessel. This very dangerous disease is difficult to treat, requires surgery and can lead to disability or death. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs (about 18-22 nucleotides) that are involved in a variety of biological processes including cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, etc., through gene repression. A growing number of studies have demonstrated miRNAs deregulation in various cardiovascular diseases, including ICH. In addition, given that computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are either not available or do not show clear signs of possible vessel rupture, accurate and reliable analysis of circulating miRNAs in biological fluids can help in early diagnosis for prevention of ICH and prognosis patient outcome after hemorrhage. In this review, we highlight the up-to-date findings on the deregulated miRNAs in ICH, and the potential use of miRNAs in clinical settings, such as therapeutic targets and non-invasive diagnostic/prognostic biomarker tools.

CircRNAs in Alzheimer's disease: What are the prospects?

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) is a fascinating covalently closed circular non-coding RNA that is abundantly present in the transcriptome of eukaryotic cells. Its versatile nature allows it to participate in a multitude of pathological and physiological processes within the organism. One of its crucial functions is acting as a microRNA sponge, modulating protein transcription levels, and forming interactions with essential RNA-binding proteins. Remarkably, circRNAs demonstrates a specific enrichment in various vital areas of the brain, including the cortex, hippocampus, white matter, and photoreceptor neurons, particularly in aging organisms. This intriguing characteristic has led scientists to explore its potential as a significant biological marker of neurodegeneration, offering promising insights into neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD, there has been an interesting observation of elevated levels of circRNAs in both peripheral blood and synaptic terminals of affected individuals. This intriguing finding raises the possibility that circRNAs may have a central role in the initiation and progression of AD. Notably, different categories of circRNAs, including HDAC9, HOMER1, Cwc27, Tulp4, and PTK2, have been implicated in driving the pathological changes associated with AD through diverse mechanisms. For instance, these circRNAs have been demonstrated to contribute to the accumulation of beta-amyloid, which is a hallmark characteristic of AD. Additionally, these circRNAs contribute to the excessive phosphorylation of tau protein, a phenomenon associated with neurofibrillary tangles, further exacerbating the disease. Moreover, they are involved in aggravating neuroinflammation, which is known to play a critical role in AD's pathogenesis. Lastly, these circRNAs can cause mitochondrial dysfunction, disrupting cellular energy production and leading to cognitive impairment. As researchers delve deeper into the intricate workings of circRNAs, they hope to unlock its full potential as a diagnostic tool and therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders, paving the way for innovative treatments and better management of such devastating conditions.

Methods of miRNA delivery and possibilities of their application in neuro-oncology.

In the current phase of medical progress, practical neuro-oncology faces critical challenges. These include the quest for and development of innovative methodological approaches, as well as the enhancement of conventional therapies to boost their efficacy in treating brain tumors, especially the malignant varieties. Recent strides in molecular and cellular biology, molecular genetics, and immunology have charted the primary research pathways in the development of new anti-cancer medications, with a particular focus on microRNA (miRNA)-based therapy. MiRNAs possess the ability to function as suppressors of tumor growth while also having the potential to act as oncogenes. MiRNAs wield control over numerous processes within the human body, encompassing tumor growth, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immune responses. A significant impediment to enhancing the efficacy of brain tumor treatment lies in the unresolved challenge of traversing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-tumor barrier (BTB) to deliver therapeutic agents directly to the tumor tissue. Presently, there is a worldwide effort to conduct intricate research and design endeavors aimed at creating miRNA-based dosage forms and delivery systems that can effectively target various structures within the central nervous system (CNS). MiRNA-based therapy stands out as one of the most promising domains in neuro-oncology. Hence, the development of efficient and safe methods for delivering miRNA agents to the specific target cells within brain tumors is of paramount importance. In this study, we will delve into recent findings regarding various methods for delivering miRNA agents to brain tumor cells. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of different delivery systems and consider some clinical aspects of miRNA-based therapy for brain tumors.

Role of exosomal ncRNAs in traumatic brain injury.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex neurological disorder that often results in long-term disabilities, cognitive impairments, and emotional disturbances. Despite significant advancements in understanding the pathophysiology of TBI, effective treatments remain limited. In recent years, exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as potential players in TBI pathogenesis and as novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Exosomal ncRNAs are small RNA molecules that are secreted by cells and transported to distant sites, where they can modulate gene expression and cell signaling pathways. They have been shown to play important roles in various aspects of TBI, such as neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, and neuronal apoptosis. The ability of exosomal ncRNAs to cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the brain parenchyma makes them attractive candidates for non-invasive biomarkers and drug delivery systems. However, significant challenges still need to be addressed before exosomal ncRNAs can be translated into clinical practice, including standardization of isolation and quantification methods, validation of their diagnostic and prognostic value, and optimization of their therapeutic efficacy and safety. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the role of exosomal ncRNAs in TBI, including their biogenesis, function, and potential applications in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. We also discuss the challenges and future perspectives of using exosomal ncRNAs as clinical tools for TBI management.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Papaver rhoeas L. Leaf Extract: Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Properties.

In the last few decades, the search for metal nanoparticles as an alternative to cancer treatments and antibiotics has increased. In this article, the spectroscopic (ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), electron-dispersing X-ray (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR)), microscopic (field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and atomic force microscope (AFM)), structural (X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and zetasizer), and analytic (thermogravimetric/differential thermal analyzer (TGA-DTA)) characterization of the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced from Papaver rhoeas (PR) L. leaf extract are presented. PR-AgNPs are generally spherical and have a maximum surface plasmon resonance of 464.03 nm. The dimensions of the manufactured nanomaterial are in the range of 1.47-7.31 nm. PR-AgNPs have high thermal stability and a zeta potential of -36.1 mV. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values (mg L-1) of PR-AgNPs on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans are 1.50, 0.75, 3.00, 6.00, and 0.37, respectively. In the study, the cytotoxic and proliferative effects of PR-AgNPs using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) method on various cancer cell lines (CACO-2 (human colon adenocarcinoma cell), MCF-7 (human breast cancer cell), T98-G (glioblastoma multiforme cell), and healthy HUVEC (human umbilical vein endothelial cell)) cell lines are presented. After 24 and 48 h of the application, the half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values (µg mL-1) of PR-AgNPs on HUVEC, CACO-2, MCF-7, and T98-G lines are 2.365 and 2.380; 2.526 and 2.521; 3.274 and 3.318; 3.472 and 3.526, respectively. Comprehensive in vivo research of PR-AgNPs is proposed to reveal their potential for usage in sectors such as nanomedicine and nanochemistry.

Cell-Free miRNAs as Non-Invasive Biomarkers in Brain Tumors.

Diagnosing brain tumors, especially malignant variants, such as glioblastoma, medulloblastoma, or brain metastasis, presents a considerable obstacle, while current treatment methods often yield unsatisfactory results. The monitoring of individuals with brain neoplasms becomes burdensome due to the intricate tumor nature and associated risks of tissue biopsies, compounded by the restricted accuracy and sensitivity of presently available non-invasive diagnostic techniques. The uncertainties surrounding diagnosis and the tumor's reaction to treatment can lead to delays in critical determinations that profoundly influence the prognosis of the disease. Consequently, there exists a pressing necessity to formulate and validate dependable, minimally invasive biomarkers that can effectively diagnose and predict brain tumors. Cell-free microRNAs (miRNAs), which remain stable and detectable in human bodily fluids, such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), have emerged as potential indicators for a range of ailments, brain tumors included. Numerous investigations have showcased the viability of profiling cell-free miRNA expression in both CSF and blood samples obtained from patients with brain tumors. Distinct miRNAs demonstrate varying expression patterns within CSF and blood. While cell-free microRNAs in the blood exhibit potential in diagnosing, prognosticating, and monitoring treatment across diverse tumor types, they fall short in effectively diagnosing brain tumors. Conversely, the cell-free miRNA profile within CSF demonstrates high potential in delivering precise and specific evaluations of brain tumors.

The roles of long noncoding RNAs in atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia that often occurs in patients with structural heart disease and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in clinical settings. AF is typically associated with significant changes of both the structure of the atria and the cardiac conduction system. AF can result in reduced heart function, heart failure, and various other complications. Current drug therapy for AF patients is often ineffective and may have adverse effects. Radiofrequency ablation is more effective than traditional drug therapy, but this invasive procedure carries potential risks and may lead to postoperative recurrence, limiting the clinical benefits to some extent. Therefore, in-depth research into the molecular mechanisms of AF and exploration of new treatment strategies based on research findings are prerequisites for improving the treatment of AF and the associated cardiac conditions. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a new class of noncoding RNA (ncRNAs) with a length exceeding 200 nt, which regulate gene expression at multiple levels. Increasing evidence suggests that lncRNAs participate in many pathological processes of AF initiation, development, and maintenance, such as structural remodeling, electrical remodeling, renin-angiotensin system anomalies, and intracellular calcium deregulation s. LncRNAs that play key roles in structural and electrical remodeling may become molecular markers and targets for AF diagnosis and treatment, respectively, while lncRNAs critical to autonomic nervous system remodeling may bring new insights into the prognosis and recurrence of AF. This review article provides a synopsis on the up-to-date research findings relevant to the roles of lncRNAs in AF.

Are there reliable multiparametric MRI criteria for differential diagnosis between intracranial meningiomas and solitary intracranial dural metastases?

Intracranial meningiomas are the most common tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). Meningiomas account for up to 36% of all brain tumors. The incidence of metastatic brain lesions has not been determined. Up to 30% of adult patients with cancer of one localization or another suffer from a secondary tumor lesion of the brain. The vast majority of meningiomas have meningeal localization; >90% are solitary. The incidence of intracranial dural metastases (IDM) is 8-9% of cases, while in 10% of cases, the brain is the only localization, and in 50% of cases the metastases are solitary. Typically, the task of distinguishing between meningioma and dural metastasis does not involve difficulties. Periodically, there is a situation when the differential diagnosis between these tumors is ambiguous, since meningiomas and solitary IDM may have similar characteristics, in particular, a cavity-less solid structure, limited diffusion of water molecules, the presence of extensive peritumoral edema, and an identical contrast pattern. The present study included 100 patients with newly diagnosed tumors of the CNS, who subsequently underwent examination and neurosurgical treatment at the Federal Center for Neurosurgery with histological verification between May 2019 and October 2022. Depending on the histological conclusion, two study groups of patients were distinguished: The first group consisted of patients diagnosed with intracranial meningiomas (n=50) and the second group of patients were diagnosed with IDM (n=50). The study was performed using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) General Electric Discovery W750 3T before and after contrast enhancement. The diagnostic value of this study was estimated using Receiver Operating Characteristic curve and area under the curve analysis. Based on the results of the study, it was found that the use of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) in the differential diagnosis of intracranial meningiomas and IDM was limited by the similarity of the values of the measured diffusion coefficient. The assumption, previously put forward in the literature, regarding the presence of a statistically significant difference in the apparent diffusion coefficient values, which make it possible to differentiate tumors, was not confirmed. When analyzing perfusion data, IDM showed higher cerebral blood flow (CBF) values compared with intracranial meningiomas (P≤0.001). A threshold value of the CBF index was revealed, which was 217.9 ml/100 g/min, above which it is possible to predict IDM with a sensitivity and specificity of 80.0 and 86.0%, respectively. Diffusion-weighted images are not reliable criteria for differentiating intracranial meningiomas from IDM and should not influence the diagnosis suggested by imaging. The technique for assessing the perfusion of a meningeal lesion makes it possible to predict metastases with a sensitivity and specificity close to 80-90% and deserves attention when making a diagnosis. In the future, in order to reduce the number of false negative and false positive results, mpMRI would require additional criteria to be included in the protocol. Since IDM differs from intracranial meningiomas in the severity of neoangiogenesis and, accordingly, in greater vascular permeability, the technique for assessing vascular permeability (wash-in parameter with dynamic contrast enhancement) may serve as a refining criterion for distinguishing between dural lesions.

Advances in transdermal siRNAs delivery: A review of current research progress.

Small interfering RNA (siRNAs) is a double-stranded RNA molecule which can hybridize with a specific mRNA sequence and block the translation of numerous genes to regulate endogenous genes and to defend the genome from invasive nucleic acids. The use of siRNAs has been studied as a treatment option for various skin conditions. One of the main obstacles in the dermal or transdermal delivery of this compound is low skin permeability, and application is limited by its negative charge, high polarity, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, and difficulty in penetrating the skin barrier. Effective delivery of therapeutic biomolecules to their target is a challenging issue, which can be solved by innovations in drug delivery systems and lead to improvement of the efficiency of many new biopharmaceuticals. Designing of novel transdermal delivery systems garnered tremendous attention in both cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical research and industries, which offers a number of advantages. Developing safe and efficient siRNAs delivery vectors is essential for effective treatment of skin diseases. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the creation of delivery systems using lipids, polymers, cell-penetrating peptides, nanoparticles and other biologically active agents. In this review we will focus on the recent advancements in transdermal siRNAs delivery vectors, such as liposomes, dendrimers, cell-penetrating peptides, and spherical nucleic acid nanoparticles.