Therapeutic Interventions for Diabetes Mellitus-Associated Complications.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is an alarming health concern, affecting approximately 537 million people worldwide. As a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, DM demands a comprehensive understanding of its diverse pathophysiological mechanisms and disease progression. METHODS: This traditional review has consolidated literature on the pathogenesis of hyperglycemia, its progression into complications, and advances in optimal treatment strategies. The literature in the last two decades has been reviewed using several keywords, including "diabetes," "diabetes-associated complications", "novel therapeutic interventions for diabetes-associated diseases", "phyto-extracts as antidiabetic drugs", etc. in prominent databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov. RESULTS: We have discussed macrovascular and microvascular complications, such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), stroke, diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy, as well as various pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions that are currently available for the management of DM. We have also focused on the potential of natural products in targeting molecular mechanisms involved in carbohydrate metabolism, insulin production, repair of pancreatic cells, and reduction of oxidative stress, thereby contributing to their antidiabetic activity. Additionally, novel therapeutic approaches, like genetic, stem cell, and immunomodulatory therapies, have been explored. We have also discussed the benefits and limitations of each intervention, emerging research and technologies, and precision medicine interventions. CONCLUSION: This review has emphasized the need for an improved understanding of these advancements, which is essential to enhance clinicians' ability to identify the most effective therapeutic interventions.

Perspectives on chick embryo models in developmental and reproductive toxicity screening.

Teratology, the study of congenital anomalies and their causative factors intersects with developmental and reproductive toxicology, employing innovative methodologies. Evaluating the potential impacts of teratogens on fetal development and assessing human risk is an essential prerequisite in preclinical research. The chicken embryo model has emerged as a powerful tool for understanding human embryonic development due to its remarkable resemblance to humans. This model offers a unique platform for investigating the effects of substances on developing embryos, employing techniques such as ex ovo and in ovo assays, chorioallantoic membrane assays, and embryonic culture techniques. The advantages of chicken embryonic models include their accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and biological relevance to vertebrate development, enabling efficient screening of developmental toxicity. However, these models have limitations, such as the absence of a placenta and maternal metabolism, impacting the study of nutrient exchange and hormone regulation. Despite these limitations, understanding and mitigating the challenges posed by the absence of a placenta and maternal metabolism are critical for maximizing the utility of the chick embryo model in developmental toxicity testing. Indeed, the insights gained from utilizing these assays and their constraints can significantly contribute to our understanding of the developmental impacts of various agents. This review underscores the utilization of chicken embryonic models in developmental toxicity testing, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages by addressing the challenges posed by their physiological differences from mammalian systems.

Recent Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery Systems for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Reproductive Disorders.

Over the past decade, nanotechnology has seen extensive integration into biomedical applications, playing a crucial role in biodetection, drug delivery, and diagnostic imaging. This is especially important in reproductive health care, which has become an emerging and significant area of research. Global concerns have intensified around disorders such as infertility, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, erectile dysfunction, benign prostate hyperplasia, sexually transmitted infections, and reproductive cancers. Nanotechnology presents promising solutions to address these concerns by introducing innovative tools and techniques, facilitating early detection, targeted drug delivery, and improved imaging capabilities. Through the utilization of nanoscale materials and devices, researchers can craft treatments that are not only more precise but also more effective, significantly enhancing outcomes in reproductive healthcare. Looking forward, the future of nanotechnology in reproductive medicine holds immense potential for reshaping diagnostics, personalized therapies, and fertility preservation. The utilization of nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems is anticipated to elevate treatment effectiveness, minimize side effects, and offer patients therapies that are not only more precise but also more efficient. This review aims to delve into the various types, properties, and preparation techniques of nanocarriers specifically designed for drug delivery in the context of reproductive disorders, shedding light on the current landscape and potential future directions in this dynamic field.

NOX-2 Inhibitors may be Potential Drug Candidates for the Management of COVID-19 Complications.

COVID-19 is an RNA virus that attacks the targeting organs, which express angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2), such as the lungs, heart, renal system, and gastrointestinal tract. The virus that enters the cell by endocytosis triggers ROS production within the confines of endosomes via a NOX-2 containing NADPH-oxidase. Various isoforms of NADPH oxidase are expressed in airways and alveolar epithelial cells, endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, and inflammatory cells, such as alveolar macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and T-lymphocytes. The key NOX isoform expressed in macrophages and neutrophils is the NOX-2 oxidase, whereas, in airways and alveolar epithelial cells, it appears to be NOX-1 and NOX-2. The respiratory RNA viruses induce NOX-2-mediated ROS production in the endosomes of alveolar macrophages. The mitochondrial and NADPH oxidase (NOX) generated ROS can enhance TGF-ß signaling to promote fibrosis of the lungs. The endothelium-derived ROS and platelet-derived ROS, due to activation of the NADPH-oxidase enzyme, play a crucial role in platelet activation. It has been observed that NOX-2 is generally activated in COVID-19 patients. The post-COVID complications like pulmonary fibrosis and platelet aggregation may be due to the activation of NOX-2. NOX-2 inhibitors may be a useful drug candidate to prevent COVID-19 complications like pulmonary fibrosis and platelet aggregation.