Background: Controlled drug delivery systems (DDS) are designed to release therapeutic agents in a regulated manner to maintain consistent plasma drug concentrations. Among these systems, gastro-retentive DDS (GRDDS) have gained considerable attention due to their ability to prolong gastric residence time, thereby enhancing drug bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy for drugs absorbed primarily in the stomach or upper gastrointestinal tract. Objectives: This review aimed to critically examine the role of pectin-based polymers in the development of GRDDS, with particular emphasis on formulation strategies using high- and low-methoxylated pectins. Results: Pectin, a naturally derived polysaccharide, is widely utilized in pharmaceutical formulations owing to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxic nature, and excellent gel-forming capacity. Based on its degree of methoxylation (DM), pectin is classified into high-methoxylated and low-methoxylated forms, each exhibiting distinct physicochemical and functional properties. Low-methoxylated pectin has been extensively explored in floating DDS due to its calcium-dependent gelation behavior. In contrast, high-methoxylated pectin demonstrates strong mucoadhesive properties, making it suitable for mucoadhesive gastro-retentive formulations. Comparative studies with other natural polymers highlight the versatility of pectin in GRDDS design. Conclusion: Pectin-based gastro-retentive formulations represent a promising and sustainable approach for controlled drug delivery. Understanding the distinct characteristics of high- and low-methoxylated pectin enables the rational design of effective GRDDS, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance.
urrently, antimicrobial resistance has become a major threat worldwide, hindering the effective functioning of antibiotics. Overcoming this challenge requires increasing antibiotic doses and, consequently, increasing toxicity. One of the researchers’ new strategy is to produce silver-antibiotic nanoconjugates.
Background: Vitamin D plays a notable role in regulating both innate and adaptive immunity. It supports the production of antimicrobial peptides, promotes autophagy, and helps control inflammatory signaling. These functions suggest that vitamin D may contribute to respiratory defense. However, the relationship between vitamin D levels and childhood pneumonia remains unclear and has shown inconsistent results in different studies. Objectives: To explore the biological mechanisms of vitamin D in respiratory immunity, evaluate the association between serum 25(OH)D levels and childhood pneumonia risk/severity, assess trial results in deficient versus replete populations, and identify sources of inconsistency across studies. Methods: This narrative review includes observational and interventional studies from several regions, such as South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. We included studies that reported serum 25(OH)D levels, markers of pneumonia severity, and clinical outcomes in children. Special attention was given to mechanistic evidence, dose-response patterns, and differences in findings between vitamin D deficient and vitamin D adequate populations. Results: Observational studies show that children with pneumonia have lower vitamin D levels than healthy controls. Deficiency is associated with greater susceptibility, longer hospital stays, hypoxemia, and a higher risk of complications like sepsis. A dose-response relationship has been observed, where higher 25(OH)D levels are associated with less severe disease. However, randomized controlled trials have produced mixed results. Benefits, such as reduced recurrence and modest recovery improvements, are mainly seen in vitamin D deficient populations, with little to no effect in replete groups. These inconsistencies likely stem from differences in study design and a lack of detailed clinical endpoints. Conclusion: Observational studies associate low vitamin D with worse pneumonia outcomes in children, but randomized control trials show inconsistent results. Potential benefits (reduced recurrence, modest clinical improvement) appear mainly in deficient children, yet causality remains unproven due to heterogeneity in study design, deficiency definitions, and outcome measures. The lack of standardized pediatric vitamin D cutoffs (ranging from <12 to <20 ng/mL) limits clinical application. Rigorous prospective trials with uniform metrics are needed to establish causality and identify which deficient children benefit most.
Background: The search for environmentally friendly nanomaterials with strong antimicrobial activity has generated growing interest in using plants to produce nanoparticles. Objectives: This study aimed to biosynthesize and characterize iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles stabilized by Luffa cylindrica extract and assess their antimicrobial properties. Methods: The biosynthesized Fe2O3 nanoparticles were characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to elucidate their optical, structural, morphological, and elemental properties. Results: The formation of Fe2O3 nanoparticles was confirmed by standard absorbance at 370 nm and functional groups attributed to the capping and stabilization observed via FTIR. XRD patterns showed a crystalline rhombohedral phase, and SEM images indicated that the nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed with diameters of 20-50 nm. Nanoparticle efficacy was tested using the agar well diffusion method against a panel of gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains and fungal pathogens. The results revealed substantial dose-dependent antimicrobial activity, with greater inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, indicating potential broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of L. cylindrica-mediated Fe2O3 nanoparticles as sustainable and effective antimicrobial agents with potential application in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, and environmental fields.
Background: Saffron (Zaeferan in Persian), known as Red Gold, is obtained from the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus L. (Iridacea) plant. It plays a critical role in non-oil exporting in the economy of Iran, and the livelihoods of many farmers and workers depend on its yields. Burkholderia (Pseudomonas) gladioli pv. gladioli causes severe reductions the saffron yield in Iran. According to responsible authorities of Iran, no pesticides are registered or recommended for saffron cultivations (except for two herbicides). Most essential oils are listed as generally recognized as safe substances and can exhibit a crucial role in exporting pesticides free saffron. Objectives: The study aimed to identify the most effective antibacterial essential oils against B. gladioli pv. gladioli. Methods: Essential oils were extracted using a clevenger apparatus from 25 medicinal plants belonging to the Lamiaceae, Compositae, and Apiaceae families, followed by an initial evaluation through disk diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and amikacin served as a negative and positive control, respectively. Results: Out of 25 essential oils, only 4 of them exhibited antibacterial effects on this pathogen including Satureja hortensis (22.66 mm inhibition), Thymus vulgaris (20.33 mm), Trachyspermum ammi (17.66 mm), and Sclerorhachis leptoclada (10.66 mm). Their MICs were 1, 2, 4, and 32 µL/mL, respectively. Conclusion: These findings highlight promising essential oils for controlling B. gladioli, supporting pesticide-free saffron production and safeguarding Iran’s valuable crop yields.
Background: Addressing cancer treatment and drug resistance is critical because cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Targeting key enzymes, such as tubulin and lipoxygenase, may yield new strategies to impede tumor growth and enhance treatment efficacy. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the anticancer effects of 1,3-thiazole derivatives on A549 and HT-29 cancer cell lines and investigate their ability to inhibit tubulin and lipoxygenase enzymes. Methods: Ethyl and methyl derivatives with a central 1,3-thiazole core were synthesized in one step. A549 and HT-29 cells were cultured in RPMI 1640 medium. The cytotoxic effects of the derivatives were assessed by treating the cells with varying concentrations for 24, 48, and 72 hours, followed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. Molecular docking using AutoDock Vina software, version 1.1.2 was performed to evaluate the derivatives’ inhibitory effects on tubulin and lipoxygenase. Results: Compound A demonstrated significant anticancer activity against A549 cells at 500 µg/mL. Compound B also inhibited 50% of cancer cells at 1000 µg/mL. In the HT-29 cell line, compound A reduced cell viability by 50% at 500 µg/mL, while compound B showed stronger effects at the same concentration. Ligand A exhibited notable inhibitory potential against tubulin, whereas ligand B had significant inhibitory effects against tubulin and lipoxygenase. Conclusion: The ethyl substituent of the 1,3-thiazole core shows promise as an anticancer agent against A549, while the methyl substituent is effective against HT-29. Both derivatives can inhibit tubulin function.
Background: Vinca herbacea Waldst. & Kit. (Apocynaceae) is a lesser-studied perennial species native to the Hyrcanian forests of northern Iran. The genus Vinca is renowned for producing monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs) with significant pharmacological properties. Quebrachamine, a bioactive indole alkaloid with vasodilatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant activities, has been reported in other Vinca species but has never been documented in V. herbacea. Objective: This study aimed to identify and characterize the presence of quebrachamine in the aerial parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) of V. herbacea collected from northern Iran using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. Methods: Plant samples were collected from the Baleskuh Protected Area, Tonekabon, in June 2024. Cold maceration extraction was performed separately using ethanol, n-propanol, and n-butanol. GC–MS analysis was conducted using an Agilent 6890–5973 system equipped with an HP-5MS column. Compound identification was established based on the Wiley and NIST spectral libraries. Results: Quebrachamine was detected exclusively in the ethanolic extracts of stems (6.18%, RT 52.04 min) and leaves (1.71%, RT 52.03 min), with spectral match qualities greater than 95%. No quebrachamine was detected in the n-propanol or n-butanol extracts, nor was it found in flower tissues, indicating a strict solvent- and organ-specific accumulation pattern. Conclusion: This constitutes the first global report of quebrachamine in V. herbacea. Its predominant presence in vegetative and photosynthetic tissues suggests active biosynthesis in the leaves and stems. These findings highlight the species as a promising natural source of bioactive alkaloids and emphasize the need for further isolation, structural confirmation, bioactivity assays, and conservation strategies—including tissue culture and domestication—for sustainable utilization.
Background: Cisplatin (Cis), an alkylating antineoplastic agent, is commonly used to treat bladder, ovarian, and testicular cancers. Prolonged use can lead to genotoxicity, potentially mediated by oxidative stress. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the protective potential of atorvastatin (Atv) against Cis-induced genotoxicity in cultured human lymphocytes. Methods: Peripheral lymphocytes were divided into four groups: control, Cis (12 μM), Atv combined with Cis (50, 100, 1000 μM), and Atv alone (1000 μM). Micronucleus (MN) frequency was assessed as a marker of chromosomal damage, while glutathione (GSH) levels and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were measured to evaluate oxidative stress. Results: Cis treatment significantly increased MN frequency and LPO levels and reduced GSH compared with the control group (P<0.05). Co-treatment with Atv markedly ameliorated MN formation and oxidative stress markers, restoring GSH levels toward baseline. Notably, the protective effect was most pronounced at 50 μM Atv, consistent with a hormetic antioxidant response. Higher concentrations (100–1000 μM) did not further enhance antioxidant effects, likely due to saturation of cellular uptake or mild redox imbalance. Conclusion: Cis induces genotoxicity in human lymphocytes primarily through oxidative stress mechanisms. Atv effectively mitigates this genotoxicity by restoring redox homeostasis and enhancing chromosomal protection, with an optimal protective effect observed at intermediate concentrations. These findings suggest that Atv may have therapeutic potential to counteract Cis-induced cellular damage and support further investigation into its adjunctive use in chemotherapy.
Background: The John Cunningham virus (JCV), a prevalent and asymptomatic virus, can cause neurological complications, such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in immunocompromised individuals. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, with 10-15% of human cancers linked to viral infections, making JCV a significant tumor-inducing virus. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the biology of JCV, its infection mechanisms, and the pathways that may facilitate tumorigenesis. Methods: This narrative review employed a systematic approach to literature retrieval. Searches were conducted across major electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, to identify relevant publications up to early 2025. The search scope included a wide range of study designs, such as original research, reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and case reports. The search strategy utilized a combination of the following key terms: “John Cunningham virus” OR “JCV”, “JC virus”, “oncogenesis” OR “oncogenic”, “cancer development”, “infection”, and “human neoplasms.” Results: The findings indicate that JCV disrupts key cellular pathways, including p53 and retinoblastoma protein (pRB) pathways, and its genomic integration into host DNA suggests its oncogenic potential. Its mechanisms include alterations in cell cycle control and Wnt signaling, promotion of cell proliferation, and potential interaction with β-catenin, leading to various cancers. Conclusion: A better understanding of virus-related carcinogenesis could provide new targets for developing viral therapies that address not only viral infections but also cancer.
Background: Caries is a type of oral bacterial infectious disease. The two species responsible for the initiation of human dental caries include Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus. Lactobacillus species have also been observed in the secondary pathogenesis of caries. The antimicrobial properties of herbs, which do not affect the natural flora of the oral cavity, make them a suitable alternative to chemicals. Objectives: Due to the lack of studies and evidence on the antibacterial effect of the Aloysia citriodora on caries-causing bacteria and the absence of a research on different types of extracts of this herb, further tests were conducted in the present study. Methods: In this comparative laboratory study, after preparing and extracting A. citriodora and obtaining its essential oil with a Cloninger machine, different concentrations were prepared. Then, zone of inhibition (ZOI) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests were performed on S. mutans, S. sobrinus, and Lactobacillus casei. These tests were also performed on 0.12% chlorhexidine. Data were reported as Mean±SEM. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the ZOI diameters among different mouthwashes. Results: The greatest antibacterial effect of A. citriodora was related to the essential oil, followed by the hydroalcoholic, aqueous, and hexane extracts, respectively. In general, based on mean concentrations, S. mutans (P<0.001) and L. casei (P<0.001) were the most susceptible bacteria to chlorhexidine, while S. sobrinus (P<0.001) was most susceptible to the essential oil. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed a significant difference between the different extracts, essential oils, and mouthwash groups at all concentrations. Conclusion: If the results of the present study are confirmed by further studies, the essential oil as well as aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of A. citriodora can be used in the formulation of mouthwashes and toothpastes to combat caries-causing bacteria.
Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine-metabolic disorder characterized by elevated androgen levels, and infertility resulting from anovulation. Selenium supplementation has been reported to improve follicular quality by enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing lipid peroxidation, and mitigating inflammatory responses. Additionally, the beneficial effects of selenium and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on insulin resistance in women with PCOS have been well-documented. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of green synthesized SeNPs using plant derived compounds, including date palm pollen (DPP) on a mouse model of PCOS. Methods: Thirty NMRI mice were randomly allocated into 6 groups, including control, PCOS, PCOS+DPP (200 and 20 mg/kg body weight), and PCOS+SeNPs (2 and 0.2 mg/kg body weight). Following 14 days of treatment, serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured and ovarian folliculogenesis were evaluated through histopathological analysis. Results: The findings indicated that treatment with DPP at a dose of 200 mg/kg resulted in a significant increase in serum FSH levels (P≤0.05) and a significant decrease in LH levels (P≤0.01) as compared with SeNPs (2 and 0.2 mg/kg). In contrast, treatment with SeNPs at dose of 0.2 mg/kg revealed more effective in serum level rather than 2 mg/kg. Histopathological evaluation revealed that the aqueous extract of DPP (200 mg/kg) led to a marked reduction in cystic follicles and an increase in secondary, growing follicles, and corpus luteum rather than treatment with SeNPs (2 and 0.2 mg/kg). Conclusion: Overall, compared with green synthesized SeNPs, the aqueous extract of DPP appears to exert more pronounced therapeutic effects on PCOS-related ovarian abnormalities, likely due to its bioactive constituents. Nevertheless, additional studies are warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.
Background: Plantago lanceolata L., a perennial plant of the Plantaginaceae family, is widely distributed across various regions. It is used globally for multiple purposes, including medicinal treatments, food additives, cosmetics, and industrial applications. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical profile of root extracts of P. lanceolata. Methods: Antibacterial activity was assessed using petroleum ether and aqueous extracts of P. lanceolata roots. The antibacterial activity was assessed using disc diffusion and microtiter broth dilution assays to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Additionally, the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were evaluated by culturing the samples on agar media. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was also employed to identify the chemical constituents present in the extracts. Results: The petroleum ether extract exhibited the strongest antimicrobial effect, producing an inhibition zone of 15.50 mm against Proteus vulgaris (PTCC 1182). The lowest MIC of 2 mg/mL was observed for both P. vulgaris and Bacillus cereus (ATCC 11778) with this extract, while minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values confirmed effectiveness at 3 mg/mL. Chemical analysis revealed that hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (16.15%) and hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (5.03%) were the predominant compounds in the petroleum ether extract. In contrast, the aqueous extract contained major artifactual components, such as 3-methoxy-2, 2-dimethyloxirane (30.78%). Conclusion: P. lanceolata roots show promise as a natural antibacterial agent with potential applications across pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and medicinal industries. The antibacterial efficacy of the extracts is supported by the identification of active compounds through GC-MS analysis.
Background: Telepharmacy is the use of telecommunication technology to remotely provide pharmacy services, such as medication review, drug therapy monitoring, and patient counseling. It is particularly important for individuals who are physically or geographically isolated from pharmacies, such as those living in rural areas or with disabilities. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of telepharmacy has increased dramatically. However, the use of technology without considering its ethical dimensions can have negative consequences. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the ethical dimensions of telepharmacy through focus group discussion (FGD). Methods: In this study, 15 experienced and knowledgeable pharmacists in the field of telepharmacy were selected and engaged in focused group discussions in three five-person sessions lasting 60-90 minutes. Subsequently, the ethical concerns raised by the participants about telepharmacy services were extracted and analyzed. After data analysis, results on the ethical dimensions of telepharmacy and suggested strategies to address these issues were reported. Results: After a thorough analysis of the participants’ comments, we identified 10 general themes and their subcategories related to the ethical dimensions of telepharmacy. Throughout the discussions, we identified that the most controversial themes were broadly classified into four key ethical dimensions: patient-pharmacist relationship, privacy and data, impersonal care, and access disparities. Conclusion: Based on focus-group data from practicing pharmacists in Iran, we identified three empirically grounded ethical priorities for clinical telepharmacy: protecting the therapeutic pharmacist–patient relationship, ensuring data privacy and security, and clarifying professional liability. We recommend standardized informed-consent templates, platform security certification, and regulatory guidance to address these priorities.
Background: Diabetes has steadily increased in India over the last three decades, with 77 million people having diabetes as of 2019, which is expected to rise to 134 million by 2045. Over 90 % of these cases are of type 2 diabetes. The newer antidiabetics like dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors and sodium-glucose transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are prescribed nowadays in type 2 diabetic patients. However, the relative efficacy and safety of these two new drug groups are unknown. Objectives: We conducted this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DPP-IV inhibitors and SGLT-2 inhibitors as add-on therapies in type 2 diabetic patients attending a tertiary care teaching hospital. Methods: This was a prospective, observational, comparative study conducted at GCS hospital, Ahmedabad, India, from November 2020 to October 2022. Results: In this study, 125 patients of either gender were enrolled and analysed. Of the 125 patients, 82 have been prescribed DPP-IV inhibitors (65.6%), and 43 were prescribed SGLT-2 inhibitors (34.4 %). SGLT-2 inhibitors had a more substantial decrease in HbA1c than DPP-IV inhibitors at weeks 12 (-1.13±1.33 vs -0.39±1.40, P<0.05) and 24 (-1.87±1.74 vs -1.07±1.58, P<0.05). The total number of adverse events was lower in the DPP-IV inhibitor group than in the SGLT 2 inhibitor group (18.3% vs 46.5%). Urinary tract infection was the most common adverse event in the SGLT-2 inhibitor group. While in the DPP-IV inhibitor group, gastrointestinal adverse events were common. Conclusion: Though SGLT-2 inhibitors have shown better efficacy outcomes, their possible adverse drug reactions should be kept in mind by physicians.
Background: Inflammation and pain are essential physiological responses that protect the body against harmful stimuli. However, when chronic, they can result in severe health problems and disability. The available treatment options have significant limitations, necessitating the search for safer alternatives. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential of the methanol leaf extract of Indigofera hochstetteri. Methods: The methanol extract of I. hochstetteri was subjected to phytochemical screening and acute toxicity assessment using Lorke’s method. Anti-inflammatory activity was examined using formalin-induced paw edema and xylene-induced ear edema, while acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests were employed to assess analgesic activity. Results: Phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, terpenes, and saponins. Acute toxicity studies indicated a moderate toxicity level, with a median lethal dose of 2,154 mg/kg. The extract displayed statistically significant (P<0.05) anti-inflammatory effects in both the formalin and xylene models. Substantial analgesic activity was also observed in both the writhing and hot plate tests. The extract’s efficacy was directly proportional to the dose, with higher doses (300 and 600 mg/kg) showing effectiveness similar to that of standard drugs. Conclusion: These findings imply that I. hochstetteri has promising potential as a natural alternative for managing inflammation and pain.
Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. They can negatively impact healthcare resources and cause financial burden on patients. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the causality, severity, predictability, and preventability of reported ADRs as per standard scales. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in KRIMS, Karwar, from April 2018 to August 2019. All suspected ADRs reported by outpatients and inpatients of various clinical departments were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 159 ADRs were reported in 136 patients. Most patients were adults aged 18-65 years (88.2%). A female preponderance was observed. The skin and central nervous system (CNS) were the predominant organ systems affected (29.6% each). The most common ADRs reported were rashes (14.5%) followed by sedation (8.2%). Antibiotics were the most commonly used drug class (38.5%). Among the individual drugs, β-lactam antibiotics were the most commonly implicated (16%). Most drugs causing ADRs were administered orally (67.5%). The causality of the reported ADRs was probable in 64.2%. Most of the reported ADRs were non-serious (91.2%). A total of 61% of patients experiencing ADRs recovered completely. Of the ADRs, 83.6% were mild, 51.6% were predictable, and 85.5% were not preventable. Most ADRs subsided after withdrawing the offending drug (66.7%). Conclusion: Early detection of the causal relationship between drugs and adverse reactions is crucial for their effective management and prevention.
Background: Aging is a biological process that reduces quality of life and is related to a time-dependent decline in cellular function. It is a primary risk factor for many disorders. Aging-related disorders have become a global healthcare challenge. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the impact of Saliva officinalis on aged tissues. Methods: In the current study, 30 aged male rats (twenty-month-old) were divided into three groups: Aging, aging-low S. officinalis (100 mg/kg), and aging-high S. officinalis (200 mg/kg). S. officinalis was gavage for 2 weeks. Finally, all aged animals were sacrificed, and the heart, liver, hippocampus, and right kidney tissues were collected for oxidative stress assessment. Blood samples were collected to measure the levels of urea, creatinine, liver enzymes, oxidants, and antioxidants, and telomerase enzyme activity. Results: The results showed that S. officinalis administration in high doses significantly decreased oxidative stress in aged tissues. Urea and creatinine levels in the aging-high S. officinalis group significantly reduced compared to the aging group. An insignificant change is observed in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), while the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) significantly decreased in the aging-high S. officinalis group. Using S. officinalis in low and high doses notably increased telomerase enzyme activity. Conclusion: This study suggests that administering S. officinalis, especially at a high dose (200 mg/kg), can be useful in reducing aging-related impairment.
Background: Psychotropic substance poisoning is a growing public health concern. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate patients with psychedelic poisoning and evaluate the frequency of clinical, preclinical, and prognostic findings. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study extracted clinical findings of patients, including neurological findings, cardiovascular findings, preclinical findings, treatment measures, and prognosis of patients poisoned with psychoactive substances who were admitted to Shah Vali Hospital in Yazd Province, Iran, and Shaheed Beheshti Hospital in Taft City, Iran, from 2014 to 2023 from their medical records and the hospital information system (HIS). Results: In the present study, information was extracted from 311 patients with psychotropic intoxication, comprising 164 individuals who had used stimulants and 147 who had used hallucinogens. The highest frequency of stimulant use was related to glass, with 160 individuals (51.4%), and the highest frequency of hallucinogen use was related to hashish, with 138 individuals (44.4%). Notably, most patients survived (99.67%). The most common symptoms observed were increased blood pressure (BP) (28.2%), mydriasis (73.31%), tachycardia (77.9%), shock (1.9%), seizures (5.5%), and agitation (68.16%). Elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels were observed in 3.53% of patients, and the severity of intoxication was statistically significant (P=0.001). The results also showed a significant difference in the frequency distribution of psychoactive substances (stimulants and hallucinogens) according to the route of consumption (oral vs inhalation). Specifically, most psychoactive substances (both stimulants and hallucinogens) were inhaled rather than ingested (P<0.01). Also, a significant difference was observed in the frequency distribution of individuals poisoned with psychedelics (stimulants and hallucinogens) according to the reason for consumption (suicide vs abuse) (P>0.01). In this regard, the most common reason for consumption was abuse (70.1%). The frequency distribution of treatment types among patients poisoned with psychotropic drugs (stimulants and hallucinogens) showed that benzodiazepines were the most frequently used treatment (73%). Conclusion: This study of 311 patients with psychedelic poisoning reveals a significant prevalence of substance abuse, particularly among younger males, with stimulants being the most commonly used drugs. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted prevention and intervention programs to address the critical issue of psychotropic substance misuse among at-risk populations.
Background: Monkeypox (mpox) has re-emerged as a significant global health concern, with outbreaks prompting public health emergencies. Despite the availability of vaccines and a few non-specific antivirals, no targeted therapy has been approved for pox, underscoring the urgent need for novel treatment strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to identify potential high-affinity drug candidates against mpox by repurposing existing compounds using structure-based molecular docking. It focused on five essential viral proteins involved in the virus’s replication and pathogenesis. Methods: Five mpox viral proteins—A48R (thymidylate kinase), A50R (DNA ligase), D13L (capsid protein), F13L (envelope protein), and I7L (cysteine protease)—were modeled using AlphaFold2 and prepared using Chimera and PyRx software. Over 300 compounds with known antiviral activity were screened using molecular docking with AutoDock Vina. The binding energies and protein-ligand interactions were analyzed using PyMOL and Discovery Studio. Top candidates were selected based on binding affinity, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles. Results: Several repurposed drugs demonstrated superior binding affinities compared to known inhibitors. Notably, baicalin (-10.0 kcal/mol) for A48R, ledipasvir (-10.3 kcal/mol) for A50R and I7L, and suramin (-13.2 and -10.7 kcal/mol) for D13L and F13L outperformed reference compounds. These drugs also exhibited favorable pharmacokinetic properties and established safety profiles. Conclusion: This in silico drug repurposing approach highlights promising candidates for further investigation of mpox. The findings offer a foundation for experimental validation and support accelerated therapeutic development for emerging poxvirus threats.
Background: Myrtus communis L. (MC), or common myrtle, is a member of the Myrtaceae family and has been widely used in herbal medicine, including Persian medicine (PM), the Unani system, and modern medical research. Objectives: This review aimed to explore MC berries, leaves, seeds, and essential oils’ therapeutic and biochemical properties in PM and contemporary scientific studies. Methods: Modern research was sourced from databases, such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, Embase, and PubMed. PM sources included key traditional textbooks, such as ‘the canon of medicine,’ ‘Makhzan al-Adviyah,’ and others. The search was based on the keywords Myrtus communis or myrtle in new sources and Mord or Habb-ul-Aas in traditional medicine sources. Results: In PM, MC has been used for neurological (headaches, epilepsy), ophthalmic (conjunctivitis), head and neck (toothache, earache, gingivitis), respiratory (cough, tuberculosis), gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD, diarrhea), urogenital (bladder stones, dysuria), and skin conditions (warts, burns, acne). Modern studies have confirmed its efficacy in treating urogenital infections (vaginitis, human papillomavirus [HPV]), skin issues (acne and warts), GERD, and head and neck conditions (aphthous stomatitis). In vivo and in vitro studies have shown antiparasitic, cardiovascular, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects (Alzheimer’s and insomnia). Conclusion: Modern research has validated many traditional uses of MC; however, further studies are required to confirm its medical benefits comprehensively.
