Modulation of Ionizing Radiation-Induced Apoptosis by Taurine in Human Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes: Flow Cytometry-based Quantification.

Background: Radiotherapy, a highly effective method of radiation-based treating cancers, can reduce the size of tumors and affect healthy tissues. Radiation-induced lymphopenia as a side effect of radiation therapy can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Objective: This study aimed to examine how taurine can protect peripheral blood lymphocytes from radiation-based apoptosis. Material and Methods: In this experimental study, the effects of the taurine on lymphocytes were studied, and blood samples were divided into three groups: a negative control group that was not treated, a positive control group that was treated with cysteine (100 µg/ml), and a group that was treated with taurine (100 µg. mL-1) in three different doses (4, 8 & 12 Gy) before irradiation. The percentage of apoptotic and necrotic lymphocytes was measured using flow cytometry 48 and 72 hours after the irradiation, respectively. Results: According to the groups treated with taurine, the number of lymphocytes undergoing apoptosis was lower and higher compared to the negative and positive control groups, respectively. The decrease in this value was more pronounced 48 hours after radiation compared to 72 hours. Furthermore, there was a slight increase in the number of apoptotic lymphocytes with increasing radiation dose. Conclusion: Taurine effectively protects human peripheral blood lymphocytes from radiation-based apoptosis.

Novel approaches for bacterial toxin neutralization; current advances and future perspectives.

This review outlines diverse strategies for neutralizing bacterial toxins which are a significant threat to human health. Effective toxin neutralization is crucial in preventing and treating bacterial infections, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains. Promising approaches include using monoclonal antibodies that target toxins and combining them with agents that directly target bacteria. Aptamers, synthetic molecules that bind to specific targets, provide a rapid and tailored method for inhibiting toxin activity and detecting pathogens. Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles mimic host cells and effectively neutralize toxins by diverting them and stimulating immune responses. These advancements have the potential to combat bacterial infections and alleviate the associated public health burden.