RESUMEN
Osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB), a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, refers to the involvement of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) in the bones and joints. While pulmonary tuberculosis is the most common form, osteoarticular TB represents a relatively rare but significant manifestation, accounting for approximately 1-3% of all TB cases. Accurate and timely diagnosis plays a pivotal role in the management of osteoarticular TB. Conventional diagnostic methods for osteoarticular TB, such as acid-fast bacilli smear microscopy and culture, have limitations in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and turnaround time. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively evaluate and synthesize the existing literature on molecular pioneering in osteoarticular TB diagnosis. Molecular techniques, such as nucleic acid amplification tests and gene-based assays, have emerged as promising tools for diagnosing TB. These techniques target specific genetic sequences of M.tb, enabling rapid and sensitive detection of the pathogen. However, the diagnostic accuracy, advantages, and limitations of these molecular techniques in the context of osteoarticular TB diagnosis require further investigation and consolidation of evidence. Furthermore, this review aims to identify areas for future research and development in the field of molecular diagnostics for osteoarticular TB.
RESUMEN
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex and prevalent joint disease with a multifaceted pathogenesis, presenting a persistent challenge to medical researchers. However, recent investigations into the gut microbiota (GMB) have unveiled an intriguing connection with OA, giving rise to the concept of the "gut-joint axis". The human gut houses a diverse microbial ecosystem that plays pivotal roles in nutrient synthesis, metabolism, and immune modulation. Dysbiosis, or disruption of this microbial balance, can lead to inflammation through the release of proinflammatory cytokines and the production of inflammatory metabolites. This editorial delves into the evolving understanding of how the GMB may influence OA development and progression. Notably, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut microorganisms have emerged as potential players in maintaining bone homeostasis and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, compromised gut integrity can lead to endotoxemia and a pro-inflammatory state, contributing to OA. Recent research has highlighted differences in GMB composition and functionality between OA patients and healthy individuals, shedding light on specific microbial taxa and functional pathways associated with OA. The gut mycobiome (fungi) and virome (viruses) in OA remain largely unexplored, presenting exciting opportunities for future investigations. The emerging understanding of the gut-joint axis offers promising avenues for innovative OA prevention and treatment strategies, though further research is needed to fully elucidate these complex interactions.
RESUMEN
Due to the Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 revolutions, researchers, clinicians, and regenerative medicine experts are exploring the plausibility of regenerating diseased or degenerated tissues to regain their near-normal biomechanical properties. In the past three decades, research on "Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine" (TERM) has attained various milestones in clinical translation from bench to bedside. The regulatory bodies of various countries and states are working on the ethical use and guidelines for the production and storage of various cellular and acellular products. Platelets and platelet-derived by-products play a significant role in TERM. The growth factors and cytokines present in platelets regenerate the tissue of interest. In this connotation, a newer orthobiologic called "GOLD-induced cytokine" (GOLDIC) has become a product of interest among various regenerative medicine experts and researchers around the globe. Due to its potent anti-inflammatory action and potential systemic side effects, gold has been withdrawn from the management panel for rheumatoid arthritis. With the knowledge of its anti-inflammatory properties, researchers explored the utility of gold for tissue regeneration.