Background: In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged member states to develop national action plans to address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance in humans. A key recommendation was to reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock, poultry, and aquaculture sectors where overuse contributes significantly to the emergence of resistant pathogens. In aquaculture, the prophylactic and therapeutic use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains that can enter the food chain and pose serious risks to human health. Materials and Methods: This narrative review synthesizes findings from original and peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2025, retrieved from reputable scientific databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Sources were selected based on their relevance to immunomodulatory strategies as alternatives to antibiotics in aquaculture and public health. Particular emphasis was placed on studies investigating the molecular mechanisms and functional outcomes of Spirulina platensis bioactive compounds, especially their immunostimulatory and antimicrobial effects in fish and human health contexts. Results: S. platensis, a filamentous cyanobacterium rich in protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, vitamins, pigments (chlorophyll, beta-carotene, phycocyanin), phenolic compounds, and antimicrobial peptides, has demonstrated positive effects on fish growth, immunity, hematobiochemical parameters, and disease resistance. Its natural antimicrobial and immunostimulatory properties suggest that Spirulina can serve as a sustainable alternative to antibiotics in aquaculture. Moreover, recent studies have highlighted its beneficial effects in humans, including modulation of gut microbiota, enhancement of immune function, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and potential roles in weight management and metabolic regulation. Conclusion: S. platensis holds promise as a natural, eco-friendly solution to antibiotic overuse in aquaculture. Its integration into fish diets may support global efforts to neutralize antimicrobial resistance and promote safer food production systems. Additionally, its health-promoting effects in humans position Spirulina as a valuable functional food with potential applications in preventive nutrition and public health.
Background: Staphylococcus haemolyticus, an emerging coagulase-negative staphylococcus (CoNS), drives hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in immunocompromised patients and those with indwelling devices, fueled by its multidrug resistance (MDR) and robust biofilm formation. Despite its clinical significance, S. haemolyticus remains understudied compared to other staphylococci. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar from 2020 to 2025. Keywords included S. haemolyticus AND (MDR OR biofilm OR phage therapy OR ‘antimicrobial peptides [AMPs]). The inclusion criteria comprised peer-reviewed articles on mechanisms, epidemiology, or therapies in humans and animals. The initial search yielded 1,247 hits; after the removal of duplicates (n=312) and title/abstract screening, 156 full texts were assessed. Results: S. haemolyticus exhibits MDR primarily through mecA-mediated methicillin resistance and horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Biofilm formation enhances antibiotic tolerance and immune evasion. Key virulence factors, including surface proteins and phenol-soluble modulins, contribute significantly to its pathogenesis. Novel therapeutic approaches, such as antimicrobial peptides and bacteriophage therapy, demonstrate promising efficacy against MDR strains in preclinical studies. Conclusion: This review highlights S. haemolyticus as an underestimated threat in HAIs, emphasizing the need for targeted therapies and advanced diagnostics. Future research should focus on clinical trials for novel antimicrobials, global epidemiology, and omics-driven drug discovery to combat this resilient pathogen.
Background: Cisplatin is a potent chemotherapeutic agent whose clinical use is limited by acute nephrotoxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on renal function and histology in cisplatin-treated rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to four groups (n=8): Healthy control (HC): No intervention; cisplatin control (CC): Received cisplatin only (single intraperitoneal injection, 5 mg/kg); exercise control (Ex): Underwent 8-week HIIT protocol only (treadmill running), cisplatin+exercise (Cis+Ex): Received cisplatin + 8-week HIIT protocol. Nephrotoxicity was induced by a single intraperitoneal cisplatin injection (5 mg/kg). Serum creatinine and urea were measured, and kidney tissues were analyzed using stereological methods. Results: Cisplatin administration significantly increased serum creatinine (CC: 1.28±0.11 mg/dL vs HC: 0.45±0.08 mg/dL, P=0.001) and urea (CC: 112.5±8.4 mg/dL vs HC: 45.3±5.1 mg/dL, P=0.001). HIIT in cisplatin-treated rats significantly reduced these levels (creatinine: C-HIIT: 0.68±0.09 mg/dL vs CC, P=0.016; urea: C-HIIT: 58.7±6.9 mg/dL vs CC, P=0.005). Stereological analysis revealed cisplatin-induced increases in kidney volume (P=0.003), glomerular volume (p=0.039), and cortical volume (P=0.02), which were significantly attenuated by HIIT (P<0.05 for all). Conclusion: An 8-week HIIT protocol significantly ameliorated cisplatin-induced renal dysfunction and histological damage in rats. These findings highlight the potential of HIIT as a non-pharmacological strategy to mitigate chemotherapy-related nephrotoxicity.
Background: Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic gram-negative pathogen frequently associated with severe nosocomial infections and increasing multidrug resistance (MDR). This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of culture and PCR-based molecular methods targeting the blaOXA-51-like gene for the detection of A. baumannii and to evaluate the antibiotic resistance patterns of isolates obtained from respiratory samples. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 236 patients with respiratory illnesses who were admitted to tertiary care hospitals in Karaj, Iran, during 2019 were enrolled. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and induced sputum samples were collected. Bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) were performed according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were carried out using species-specific primers. Statistical analyses, including McNemar’s test, were conducted using SPSS software, version 19. Results: PCR detected A. baumannii in 75 samples (31.8%), while culture identified 70 samples (29.7%). PCR showed significantly higher sensitivity and specificity compared to culture (P<0.05). Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed 100% resistance to ceftazidime, gentamicin, tobramycin, imipenem, ciprofloxacin, amikacin, cefepime, piperacillin, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, piperacillin–tazobactam, doxycycline, tetracycline, and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. Conclusion: PCR demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy compared to conventional culture for detecting A. baumannii in respiratory samples. The universal resistance observed underscores the urgent need for continuous surveillance, strict infection control measures, and the implementation of rapid molecular diagnostics to guide appropriate antimicrobial therapy in hospital settings.
Background: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) encompass a broad spectrum of conditions with diverse genetic and clinical presentations. Despite advances in sequencing technologies, many cases remain genetically unexplained, particularly those with variable phenotypes. Materials and Methods: In this study, we report a novel heterozygous variant in the GNAI1 gene (c.593T>A; p.Met198Lys) in a 36-year-old man identified through whole-exome sequencing (WES). The presence of variant was also detected in three affected members of his family via sanger sequencing method using specific primers. Results: Unlike previously reported GNAI1 mutations, which are typically de novo and associated with severe developmental delays, hypotonia, epilepsy, and dysmorphic features, the affected individuals in this family exhibited only mild intellectual disability. Sanger sequencing confirmed co-segregation of the variant with the disease phenotype, supporting an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. In silico analyses classified the variant as likely pathogenic. Conclusion: Given the clinical overlap between GNAI1-related NDDs and other single-gene disorders, such as GNB1, PPP3CA, and TANC2, this case highlights the importance of next-generation sequencing in uncovering elusive genetic etiologies and expands the phenotypic and inheritance spectrum of GNAI1-associated disorders.
Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major cause of pneumonia and meningitis, particularly in children under five years of age. The limited serotype coverage and high cost of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines highlight the need for affordable, serotype-independent vaccine candidates. Choline-binding protein D (CbpD), a surface protein involved in pneumococcal virulence, represents a promising antigenic target. This study aimed to evaluate the immunogenic potential of the N-terminal fragment of CbpD (FCbpD) from S. pneumoniae serotype 19F as a candidate for protein-based pneumococcal vaccines. Materials and Methods: The fcbpD gene encoding amino acids 51–353 was cloned into the pET28a vector and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). Bioinformatics analyses were performed to assess protein stability, antigenicity, and epitope prediction. The recombinant protein was purified under denaturing conditions and refolded. BALB/c mice were immunized with FCbpD in combination with flagellin as an adjuvant, and specific IgG responses were measured by ELISA. Results: Sequence analysis demonstrated high conservation (>94%) of FCbpD among major invasive pneumococcal serotypes. Bioinformatics tools confirmed its stability and antigenicity, with three conformational B-cell epitopes identified. The recombinant protein was successfully expressed (~34 kDa) and purified. Immunization with FCbpD plus flagellin induced a significant increase in specific IgG levels compared to control groups (P<0.05), indicating strong immunogenicity. Conclusion: FCbpD is a conserved and immunogenic antigen capable of inducing a specific antibody response, supporting its potential as a serotype-independent candidate for pneumococcal vaccine development
Background: Menstrual blood has been identified as an important source for the isolation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These stem cells can easily and non-invasively be harvested from menstrual blood during menstrual shedding. There has been extensive research on the differentiation potential of menstrual blood-derived stem cells (MenSCs) and their application in regenerative medicine and the treatment of diseases. Materials and Methods: The aim of this paper was to review the current and future application of MenSCs in the field of regenerative medicine and cell therapy based on an electronic search in various databases, like Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar for English-language studies. The application of MenSCs in regenerative medicine can be the window of hope for the treatment of various diseases and disabilities, such as female infertility, type 1 diabetes, myocardial infarction, wound healing, neurodegenerative diseases, and many other conditions that were thought to be incurable in the past. Conclusion: Nowadays, the use of MenSC as a novel source of MSCs has garnered special interest among scientists due to two important factors: Non-invasive accessibility and the immunomodulatory potential of these cells, which have historically posed significant obstacles in the field of stem cell therapy. To date, there has been substantial research on these cells, and many studies are ongoing, as scientists seek to leverage their differentiation potential and optimize differentiation conditions and protocols for their application in regenerative medicine.
Background: Tonsillectomy is a common surgery that can cause postoperative pain. Preemptive analgesia, given before surgery, aims to block pain signals. Opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like meloxicam, are often used for pain management, though opioids may have undesirable side effects. This study compared the effectiveness of oral oxycodone and meloxicam in providing preemptive pain control following tonsillectomy in adults. Methods: This three-arm, double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted at Bu-Ali Sina Hospital, Iran. Seventy adult participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: oxycodone or meloxicam. Both medications were administered 60 minutes before surgery. Postoperative care included standard monitoring, ondansetron, and intravenous acetaminophen. The primary outcome was postoperative pain occurrence, while secondary outcomes assessed pain intensity using the numeric rating scale (NRS) and analgesic consumption. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software, version 25. Results: Of 70 participants, 67 completed the study. Adverse effects, including stomachache, headache, and nausea, were similar between the meloxicam and oxycodone groups. Pain intensity assessments revealed no significant differences at 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 6 hours, or 24 hours post-surgery, but after 12 hours, the oxycodone group experienced lower pain intensity (mean=2.62) compared to the meloxicam group (mean=3.5), indicating better preemptive pain control with oxycodone. Conclusion: Oxycodone provides superior preemptive pain control compared to meloxicam after tonsillectomy in adults. Further studies are needed to optimize preemptive analgesia strategies.
Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychiatric condition associated with anxiety, cognitive deficits, and neurobiological changes. Estrogen deficiency occurs after ovariectomy (OVX) or menopause, exacerbating PTSD symptoms and limiting treatment options. Physical exercise has emerged as a non-pharmacological intervention with neuroprotective effects, but its efficacy under estrogen-deficient conditions remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of moderate-intensity forced running wheel (FRW) exercise on PTSD-like behaviors, recognition memory, and neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of ovariectomized rats exposed to single prolonged stress (SPS) as a model of PTSD. Materials and Methods: Adult female Wistar rats (n=7 per group) were allocated to eight groups in a 2×2×2 factorial design based on ovarian status (sham vs OVX), stress exposure (no stress vs SPS), and physical activity (sedentary vs FRW). FRW was performed 30 min/day, 5 days/week for 4 weeks at 10 m/min (~60% VO2max), indicating moderate intensity. Anxiety-like behaviours (% open arm time [OAT], % open arm entry [OAE]) and recognition memory (discrimination index (DI) were assessed using standard behavioural tests. ELISA was used to measure BDNF and IGF-1 levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Data (Mean±SEM) were analyzed using a three-way ANOVA (OVX × SPS × Exercise) with the Tukey’s post-hoc test; the assumptions of normality and homogeneity were verified. Partial η² and Cohen’s d were reported for omnibus and key pairwise comparisons, respectively (α=0.05, two-tailed). Results: SPS exposure significantly increased anxiety-like behaviors and impaired recognition memory in both control and ovariectomized rats. FRW exercise ameliorated anxiety and memory deficits and elevated BDNF and IGF-1 levels in control animals under both SPS and non-SPS conditions. However, in ovariectomized rats, the beneficial effects of exercise were confined mainly to non-SPS groups, with limited improvements observed in ovariectomized rats subjected to SPS. Estrogen deficiency diminished the neuroprotective and behavioral benefits of exercise under stress. Conclusion: Moderate-intensity FRW exercise effectively mitigates PTSD-related behavioral and neurochemical deficits in rats with normal ovarian hormone levels. Still, its efficacy is substantially reduced under estrogen-deficient conditions. These findings highlight the importance of hormonal status in determining the therapeutic potential of exercise for PTSD. Although the SPS model provides valuable insights into PTSD-like symptoms, it does not fully replicate the complexity of human PTSD; therefore, extrapolation to clinical settings should be approached with caution. Combined interventions, including hormonal support, may be more effective for post-menopausal populations.
Background: ATP synthase-binding cassette (ABC) membrane transporter genes play a crucial role in mediating drug resistance and may serve as predictive biomarkers for treatment outcomes in breast cancer (BC). This study aimed to examine changes in the expression of these genes. Methods: Transcriptome data from BC were extracted from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), normalized, and categorized into malignant and healthy samples. Immunohistochemistry data examined protein levels, and linear models were used to evaluate variations in gene expression. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression analysis were used to investigate the correlations with survival. Data from PharmacoDB were utilized to examine the relationship between drug sensitivity and resistance. RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis were performed on samples from the Iranian Tumor Bank, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to evaluate the expression of ABCA5 and ABCD1. Results: Differential expression analysis identified eight ABC transporter genes with upregulated expression and 19 genes with downregulated expression in BC tissues compared to healthy samples. Specifically, high ABCD1 expression was correlated with poor prognosis, whereas higher levels of ABCA10, ABCA5, ABCA8, ABCB1, and ABCD2 were associated with improved patient outcomes. Protein expression analysis corroborated these findings. Co-expression network and pathway enrichment analyses revealed that ABCD1 is involved in glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and DNA repair pathways. The other candidate genes were linked to ABC transporter activity and fatty acid metabolism. Furthermore, ROC curve analysis demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity of the candidate genes in distinguishing malignant from normal tissues. Resistance to Docetaxel was linked to elevated expression of ABCA5, ABCA8, ABCA10, and ABCB1, which needs more confirmation. Our ex vivo studies revealed a notable difference in ABCA5 and ABCD1 levels between cancerous samples and healthy tissues. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of ABC transporter genes, particularly ABCD1, ABCA10, ABCA5, ABCA8, ABCB1, and ABCD2, as novel prognostic biomarkers and contributors to drug resistance in BC. Their involvement in key oncogenic pathways underscores their significance in BC pathophysiology and warrants further investigation for therapeutic targeting.
Background: The incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) is increasing globally. This study examined the incidence of TC in Mazandaran Province, Northern Iran, from 2016 to 2020. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the Mazandaran cancer registry. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using the Joinpoint Regression Program software, version 4.9.0.0. Results: The number of cases rose by 90.9%, increasing from 253 in 2016 to 483 in 2020. The ASIR increased from 6.43 to 11.14 per 100,000. While the overall trend was not statistically significant (AAPC=14.5%, P=0.08), a significant increase was observed in males (AAPC=19.8%, P<0.05). The incidence rate in women was approximately five times that of men (15.14 vs 3.06 per 100,000, P<0.001) and was more common in urban areas.. Most new cases (over 80%) occurred in the 25–59 age group. Conclusion: TC incidence has risen substantially in Mazandaran Province, particularly among women and urban residents. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into underlying causes and preventive measures.
Background: Cervical cancer is one of the main and important causes of death and the fourth most common malignancy in females worldwide. By identifying miRNAs involved in different types and stages of cervical cancer, these miRNAs may be considered potential biomarkers for the early detection of cervical cancer or for targeted therapy, leading to new therapeutic strategies. Methods: The dbDEMC database is a collection of differentially expressed miRNAs in human cancers, compiled from microarray and miRNA-seq data. In this study, we selected a number of experiments and listed the miRNAs with increased or decreased expression using dbDEMC. The CCDB contains data on the number of genes found in cervical cancer, classified by molecular class. Results: By selecting cervical cancer, 10 experiments are displayed. By choosing Experiment EXP00166, in which 42 miRNAs are overexpressed and 32 miRNAs are down-expressed. By choosing the EXP00167 experiment, in which the cervical cancer subtype is cervical squamous cell carcinoma and its design is based on cancer vs. normal, 25 miRNAs were down-expressed and 28 miRNAs were up-expressed. By selecting the EXP00168 trial, which has a cervical adenocarcinoma subtype and is designed to compare high-grade tumors with low-grade tumors, 15 miRNAs have decreased expression, and 24 miRNAs have increased expression. By choosing the EXP00803 experiment, which is designed based on cancer vs. normal, and has 30 miRNAs down-expressed and 43 miRNAs up-expressed. In the CCDB database, the number of genes found in cervical cancer is 537, classified by molecular class. Conclusion: Results of miRNAs involved in cervical cancer, retrieved from the dbDEMC database, can help identify molecular biomarkers, which can then serve as alternatives to invasive diagnostic methods such as biopsy.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus can lead to long-term health effects, such as possible oncogenic properties. The evidence shows that SARS-CoV-2 may affect cellular pathways involved in cancer development, such as chronic inflammation, immune evasion, and genomic instability. This review study explores the hypothetical mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 contributes to oncogenesis, including persistent viral infection, dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes (e.g. p53), activation of pro-oncogenic signaling (e.g. NF-κB, JAK/STAT), and induction of long-term oxidative stress. While the evidence of the link between SARS-CoV-2 and cancer remains limited, like other oncogenic viruses, including HPV and EBV, further investigation is needed. Further epidemiological and molecular studies are needed to validate these hypotheses and assess the potential oncogenic impact of SARS-CoV-2.
A combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and genetics has revolutionized biomedicine and pharmacology. It has opened new horizons toward analyzing complex genetic data and designing precise treatments. Significantly increasing amounts of genetic data and advancements in sequencing technologies have made AI a key tool for processing, analyzing, and identifying the patterns related to these data. The present work focused on the role of AI in the recent developments of genetics. It examined diverse applications of AI in diagnosis, prediction of therapy responsiveness, and improvement of gene editing technologies. In the realm of diagnosing genetic diseases, AI algorithms assist in the rapid and precise detection of rare diseases through analyzing genetic and clinical data. In addition, predicting responsiveness to particular treatments based on genetic data derived from predictive AI models may improve treatment outcomes and cut costs. AI also plays a critical role in designing and optimizing gene editing technologies, like CRISPR, and enhances the accuracy and efficiency of these methods. However, some challenges are important, like the quality of genetic data, the complexity of AI models, and ethical issues related to privacy and discrimination in using these technologies. The present work emphasizes the enormous potential of AI in genetics. It also pinpoints the importance of resolving challenges for more effective and equitable utilization of this technology.
Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline. The apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, particularly its ε4 allele, is a well-established genetic risk factor for late-onset AD. This study aimed to decipher APOE’s interaction networks to advance AD diagnostics and therapeutics. Materials and Methods: We conducted an analytical study comparing gene expression data and genetic factors between AD patients and healthy controls. Candidate genes were identified through comprehensive literature reviews and bioinformatics database searches, prioritizing genes validated by in vivo, in vitro, or in silico evidence. Interaction networks were constructed using MATLAB software, version R2025a and R software, version 4.5.1. Results: Network analysis of AD-associated proteins—using centrality measures (maximum neighborhood component (MNC), degree, betweenness, closeness, and radiality)—identified TREM2, BDNF, NCSRN, SORL1, and TNF as key components within the APOE network. TREM2 and TNF regulate neuroinflammatory responses, BDNF supports neurotrophic activity and synaptic plasticity, NCSRN modulates Notch signaling, and SORL1 is critical for amyloid-beta (Aβ) metabolism. These findings highlight AD’s multifactorial nature and reveal potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers. Conclusion: Our results align with prior research, reinforcing the roles of TREM2 (microglial activity), BDNF (neuroprotection), NCSRN (signaling pathways), and SORL1 (Aβ regulation) in AD pathogenesis. By mapping APOE’s interaction network, this study provides a foundation for future therapeutic innovations.
Background: Gastric cancer is among the most frequently diagnosed and deadliest cancers worldwide. Current treatments often exhibit limited efficacy and are associated with considerable side effects. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of methanolic and ethanolic extracts of Chlorella vulgaris (CV), Scenedesmus obliquus (SO), and Nostoc (NSC) on apoptosis in the AGS gastric cancer cell line. Materials and Methods: The cytotoxic effects of the extracts at various concentrations were assessed using the MTT assay. Total RNA was extracted to measure BAX gene expression using quantitative real-time PCR. Results: Extracts from all three microalgae enhanced cell death in the AGS cell line. Notably, the ethanolic extract of NSC significantly upregulated BAX gene expression. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of NSC shows promising anticancer potential and may serve as a candidate for future gastric cancer therapies.
Background: Emerging evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to the development or exacerbation of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), through mechanisms such as immune system hyperactivation, cytokine storm, and the production of autoantibodies. Materials and Methods: This review aimed to investigate the potential association between SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination and the onset or flare-up of RA, with a focus on pathogenic mechanisms, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies. A collection of published case reports and studies was reviewed to identify patterns and clinical outcomes related to RA after COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Results: New-onset RA symptoms are most frequently observed within 2 to 16 weeks post-infection, with a higher incidence in women. Common laboratory findings included elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels, along with positive rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs). In some cases, a genetic predisposition was also identified, suggesting an interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Despite the viral context, diagnosis and treatment strategies are largely aligned with standard RA protocols. RA onset or exacerbation following COVID-19 vaccination appears to be rare, and the benefits of vaccination continue to outweigh the associated risks. Conclusion: Although current evidence suggests a potential association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the pathogenesis of RA, existing studies are limited in scope and sample size. Further large-scale, longitudinal research is required to substantiate these findings and better understand the underlying mechanisms.
Background: This study focuses on the formulation and characterization of nanostructured lipidcarriers (NLCs) containing tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative known for its anti-aging and anti-acne properties. The primary objective was to enhance drug loading capacity and reduce skin irritation while prolonging the duration of action. Materials and Methods: Utilizing hot homogenization and ultrasound methods, 26 different formulations were developed, varying lipid and surfactant percentages, as well as ratios of Tween to Span. The optimized NLCs were assessed for morphology, particle size, and zeta potential, revealing that increasing lipid and tretinoin concentrations led to larger sizes and a consistent zeta potential. Morphological analysis confirmed the spherical nature of the nanoparticles, and FTIR spectroscopy indicated successful drug encapsulation. Results: The optimal formulation comprised 2% lipid, 2% surfactant, and 0.01% tretinoin, achieving a particle size of 253.4 nm and a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.241. Conclusion: Overall, these results underscore the promise of NLCs in advancing topical drug delivery systems, paving the way for future clinical applications and further research into their efficacy and safety in diverse dermatological conditions.
Background: Diazinon and Malathion are organophosphorus toxins. Ginger has been widely recognized for its antioxidant properties, and its ethanolic extract has shown potential therapeutic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant effect of ethanolic ginger extract on toxicity caused by diazinon and malathion in human lung epithelial cells. Organophosphorus toxins are known to induce oxidative stress and cellular damage. Materials and Methods: The ginger roots were crushed and solved in 70% ethanol. The ethanol solution was then removed by evaporation using a rotary evaporator to obtain a concentrated extract. To assess cell growth inhibition, the MTT assay was employed. Lipid peroxidation levels were determined using TBA reagents. Additionally, the glutathione content in human lung epithelial cells was measured using the DTNB reagent. Results: The ginger extract in combination with malathion and diazinon led to a significant increase in cell viability, particularly at higher doses, compared to the control group (P<0.05). The ethanol extract of ginger exhibited a dose-dependent reduction in the MDA level in the treated groups, which was significantly lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). Moreover, the treatment groups receiving doses of 100, 500, and 1000 μg/ml of ginger extract showed a significant increase in glutathione levels (P<0.05). The protective effects were particularly pronounced at doses of 500 and 1000 μg/ml of ginger extract. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of ginger possesses significant antioxidant properties, which can mitigate the toxicity caused by diazinon and malathion in human lung epithelial cells.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a group already at increased risk due to altered immune function and immunosuppressive treatments. While vaccines remain the most effective tool for controlling the pandemic, concerns about their safety and potential to worsen IBD symptoms have led to hesitancy among patients. This study explored the side effects of COVID-19 vaccines in IBD patients compared to healthy individuals. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted in Isfahan, Iran, from September to December 2021. The study involved 86 IBD patients and 91 healthy participants who had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Information about vaccine-related side effects was gathered through interviews, and statistical methods were used to identify any significant differences between the two groups. Results: The findings showed that vaccine side effects were mild and temporary in both groups, with no significant differences in overall frequency (70% in IBD patients vs 67% in healthy controls). Common side effects included localized pain, fatigue, headaches, and fever, all of which resolved quickly. Notably, no IBD patients reported a flare of their condition after vaccination. Despite this, fewer IBD patients opted for second or third doses, likely due to lingering concerns about adverse effects. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccination is safe for IBD patients, with side effects similar to or less frequent than those seen in the general population. Clear communication and targeted strategies are needed to alleviate vaccine hesitancy in this vulnerable group.
