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                    <title><![CDATA[Islet Cell Cancer]]></title>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

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                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

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                    <pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:52:01 +0000</pubDate>

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                    <title><![CDATA[Islet Cell Cancer]]></title>

                    <url>https://www.benthamscience.com</url>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[SGLT2 Inhibitors and Diabetic Kidney Disease: Targeting Multiple and
Interrelated Signaling Pathways for Renal Protection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135496</link><description><![CDATA[Almost 20-40% of all patients suffering from diabetes mellitus experience chronic kidney disease, which is related to higher mortality (cardiovascular and all-cause). The implication of several pathophysiological mechanisms (hemodynamic, tubular, metabolic and inflammatory) in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease generates an urgent need to develop multitarget therapeutic strategies to face its development and progression. SGLT2 inhibitors are undoubtedly a practice-changing drug class for individuals who experience type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease. In vitro studies, exploratory research, sub-analyses of large randomized controlled trials, and investigation of several biomarkers have demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors achieved multiple beneficial activities, targeting several renal cellular and molecular pathways independent of their antihyperglycemic activity. These mainly include the reduction in intraglomerular pressure through the restoration of TGF, impacts on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, improvement of renal hypoxia, adaptive metabolic alterations in substrate use/energy expenditure, improvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, and reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. This manuscript thoroughly investigates the possible mechanisms that underlie their salutary renal effects in patients with diabetes, focusing on several pathways involved and the interplay between them. It also explores their upcoming role in ameliorating the evolution of chronic kidney disease in patients with diabetes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Detailed Review of Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms Responsible for the
Development and Aggravation of Neuropathy and Nephropathy in Diabetes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130383</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Diabetic mellitus is responsible for triggering many conditions, such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Hyperglycemia leads to the development of oxidative stress conditions, activation of pathways, and generation of metabolites, leading to complications like neuropathy and nephropathy. <P> Objective: This paper aims to discuss the mechanism of actions, pathways, and metabolites triggered due to the development of neuropathy and nephropathy post-long-haul diabetes in patients. The therapeutic targets are also highlighted, proving to be a potential cure for such conditions. <P> Methods: Research works were searched from international and national databases with keywords like “diabetes,” “diabetic nephropathy,” “NADPH,” “oxidative stress,” “PKC,” “Molecular mechanisms,” “ cellular mechanisms,” “complications of diabetes,” and “factors.” The databases searched were PubMed, Scopus, Directory of open access journals, Semantic Scholar, Core, Europe PMC, EMBASE, Nutrition, FSTA- Food Science and Technology, Merck Index, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Open, MedlinePlus, Indian citation index, World Wide Science, and Shodhganga. <P> Results: Pathways causing protein kinase C (PKC) activation, free radical injury, oxidative stress, and aggravating the conditions of neuropathy and nephropathy were discussed. In diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy, neurons and nephrons are affected to the extent that their normal physiology is disturbed, thus leading to further complications and conditions of loss of nerve sensation in diabetic neuropathy and kidney failure in diabetic nephropathy. <P> Current treatment options available for the management of diabetic neuropathy are anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and topical medications, including capsaicin. According to AAN guidelines, pregabalin is recommended as the first line of therapy, whereas other drugs currently used for treatment are gabapentin, venlafaxine, opioids, amitriptyline, and valproate. <P> Drug targets for treating diabetic neuropathy must suppress the activated polyol pathways, kinase C, hexosamine, and other pathways, which amplify neuroinflammation. Targeted therapy must focus on the reduction of oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines and suppression of neuroinflammation, NF-&#954;B, AP-1, etc. <P> Conclusion: Potential drug targets must be considered for new research on the treatment of neuropathy and nephropathy conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Protective Effect of Chrysin against Chlorpyrifos-Induced Metabolic
Impairment and Pancreatitis in Male Rats]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129597</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: This study was performed to evaluate the protective effects of chrysin (CH) on metabolic impairment and pancreatic injury caused by sub-chronic chlorpyrifos (CPF) intoxication in male rats. <p> Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups (n=8). Intraperitoneal injections of chrysin (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg for 45 days) and CPF (10 mg/kg for 45 days) gavage were performed. Present findings indicated that the serum levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and lowdensity lipoprotein-cholesterol, as well as body weight, were increased in the CPF-exposed group. <p> Results: It was also found that CPF decreased superoxide dismutase activity as well as increased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels in the pancreatic tissue of exposed animals. Histopathological examination also confirmed the toxic effects of CPF on pancreatic tissue as mostly evidenced by infiltration of inflammatory cells and necrosis. CH (50 mg/kg) decreased blood glucose concentration (p < 0.05), TG (p < 0.05), and LDL-C in CPF-exposed animals. CH decreased the pancreas levels of MDA in all treated CPF-exposed groups versus the non-treated CPF-exposed group (p < 0.05, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). A significant difference was not seen in the NO and MDA levels and SOD activity between CH-treated (50 mg/kg) animals exposed to CPF and controls. A significant difference was not seen in the NO and MDA levels and SOD activity between CHtreated (50 mg/kg) animals exposed to CPF and controls. <p> Conclusion: A significant difference was not seen in the NO and MDA levels and SOD activity between CH-treated (50 mg/kg) animals exposed to CPF and controls. In conclusion, CH could prevent initiate and progress of CPF-induced metabolic impairment by modulating oxidative stress in pancreatic tissue as a target organ of organophosphorus pesticides.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Correlation of Diffusion weighted MR Imaging and ADC Values of Hepatic
Metastasis of Gastrointestinal Stromal and Gastroenteropancreatic
Neuroendocrine Tumors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131996</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: DWI and ADC-mapping was performed to analyze hepatic metastasis of GIST, GEP-NET. <p> Objective: The objective of this study is to present hepatic metastasis of GIST and GEP-NET with Diffusion weighted MR imaging(DWI) and the Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) values of masses. <p> Methods: 18 GIST patients and 8 GEP-NET patients were examined retrospectively. 11 males and 6 females were present in GIST group, 7 males to 5 females were involved in GEP-NET group. 18 primary GIST and 10 hepatic metastasis of GIST, 8 original GEP-NET and 19 hepatic metastasis of GEP-NET; total 55 GIST and GEP-NET masses were analysed by ADC mapping. MR images were acquired by 1,5 T MR units (32 mT/min gradient strength- Achieva; Philips Healthcare, Best, Netherlands and 32 channel GE Signa GE-Wisconsin-USA); by using a 4-8 channel standard phased-array torso XL coil, all images were evaluated by an Abdominal MRI experienced radiologist. DWI was performed in the transverse plane by using spin-echo-planar imaging sequence. <p> Results: No statistical differences were observed between GIST and GEP-NET patients according to age and gender variations. No significant statistical differences were observed according to the diameters and ADC values of GIST and GEP-NET patients. A significant statistical difference was observed between GIST and GEP-NET groups in terms of size of liver metastasis which was significantly higher in GIST patients. All three groups (GIST_Hep. MET, GEP-NET_Liver_Met and normal) were statistically differed according to ADC values. With the ROC curve analysis: Hepatic metastasis of GIST(n=10) and normal liver (n:47) had cut-off value for ADC: 0.925 under AUC: 0.939 with regard to ADC values and regarded 89.4% Sensitivity, 100% Specificity, 100% PPV and 66.7% PPV. ROC curve of GEP NET_ Hepatic metastasis (n=19) group and normal liver (n:47) group presented cut-off value for ADC: 0.860 under AUC: 0.967 correlated to ADC values with 93.6% sensitivity, 89.5% specificity, 95.7% PPV and 85% PPV. <p> Conclusion: High cellular tumors resulted from liver metastasis of GIST and GEP-NET’s, and a positive correlation was observed between ADC values and cellularity/differentiation ratios of metastatic masses.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Antidiabetic Potential of Apiaceae Family Plants- A Critical Update]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138880</link><description><![CDATA[Apiaceae is one of the biggest and most important plant families, comprising about 3700 species and 434 genera. Most of them are aromatic, flowering plants. The plants in this family are beneficial for everyday use and treating diseases. They are a rich source of nutraceuticals and secondary metabolites attributed to different pharmacological activities. Some plants under this family possess antidiabetic activity through different mechanisms, such as inhibiting carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes, stimulating insulin secretion, and regulating glucose transporters. Diabetes mellitus has become a chronic metabolic disorder whose management is of utmost importance in recent days. The present review aims to establish the use of Apiaceae family plants in treating diabetes mellitus. The availability of plants, their bio-constituents, mode of action, and experimental studies have also been briefly described here.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Systematic Review on the Potential Applications of Theranostic
Nanoparticles in Diabetes and its Associated Complication Diabetic
Neuropathy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137581</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Diabetes neuropathy is a frequent ailment that has a substantial impact on patients by increasing the risk of falls and causing discomfort. The lower extremities are where diabetic neuropathy patients first feel pain. This discomfort could seem like a pinprick, an electric shock, or something else. </p> <p> Objective: Here, we give a comprehensive overview of this quickly developing theranostic application that includes all relevant imaging, diagnostic, therapeutic, and monitoring elements for the management of diabetes and diabetes neuropathy. </p> <p> Methods: The data for the current study was gathered by searching PubMed and Google Scholar. Several research and review publications from various publishers, including Springer Nature, Bentham Science, PLOS one, MDPI, and ACS Publishing Centre, were evaluated to compile the data. </p> <p> Result: Recent developments in theranostics have shown promise as alternate management approaches for diabetes and ailments linked to diabetes. Numerous nanotechnology-built biosensors, including multiwalled carbon nanotubes, copper nanowires, zinc oxide tetrapods, and nanoparticle- embedded contact lenses, offer benefits in monitoring diabetic neuropathy. </p> <p> Conclusion: The potency, usability, and dependability of insulin substitutes have been demonstrated by a variety of innovative methods for the management of diabetes, which includes nanotechnology approaches using Gene-Based Nanoparticles (siRNA), Liposomes, Exosomes/ Extracellular Vesicles, Neuromodulation, and Inhalable Nanoparticles. Over the past few years, the development of various theranostic nanoparticles for Diabetic neuropathy has experienced an unprecedented expansion. Even though much work needs to be done to precisely evaluate the genuine benefits provided by these particles, such as issues with nanotoxicity, theranostic nanoparticles will have a significant impact on the field of nanomedicine.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Type 1 Diabetes Treatment:
Current Advances and Future Opportunity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135081</link><description><![CDATA[Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is characterized by hyperglycemia, and caused by a lack of insulin secretion. At present there is no cure for T1D and patients are dependent on exogenous insulin for lifelong, which seriously affects their lives. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be differentiated to β cell-like cells to rescue the secretion of insulin and reconstruct immunotolerance to preserve the function of islet β cells. Due to the higher proportion of children and adolescents in T1D patients, the efficacy and safety issue of the application of MSC’s transplant in T1D was primarily demonstrated and identified by human clinical trials in this review. Then we clarified the mechanism of MSCs to relieve the symptom of T1D and found out that UC-MSCs have no obvious advantage over the other types of MSCs, the autologous MSCs from BM or menstrual blood with less expanded ex vivo could be the better choice for clinical application to treat with T1D through documentary analysis. Finally, we summarized the advances of MSCs with different interventions such as genetic engineering in the treatment of T1D, and demonstrated the advantages and shortage of MSCs intervened by different treatments in the transplantation, which may enhance the clinical efficacy and overcome the shortcomings in the application of MSCs to T1D in future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Exquisite Analysis on the Significance of Nutrient Supplementation in
the Holistic Management of Poly-cystic Ovarian Syndrome]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135160</link><description><![CDATA[The complex heterogeneous disorder known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) includes endocrine, reproductive, metabolic, psychological, and other pathological aspects. Yet, nothing is understood regarding the cause of PCOS. Insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism are major contributors to the pathophysiology of PCOS, according to various studies. Because of this, a lot of PCOS treatment regimens include changing a person's lifestyle through practices, like exercise, nutrition, and vitamin supplementation. Recent studies have indicated a number of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and vitamin-like substances, for the therapy of PCOS since they all have at least one functional characteristic in the pathways that are affected by PCOS. As a result, it is claimed that PCOS may be caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency. It is the goal of this review to conduct a critical literature analysis on nutritional supplementation for the management of PCOS.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Synthesis and Characterization of Baicalein-loaded Aquasomes: An <i>In vitro</i>
and <i>In silico</i> Perspective for Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137904</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from metabolic abnormalities induced by diabetes. Baicalein, a flavonoid, has shown several properties in various treatments with potential properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic properties. Practically, its application is hindered due to low solubility in aqueous media. Overcoming this challenge, aquasomes can offer an effective approach for delivering drugs and bioactive molecules to target various diseases. <p> Objective: The study aimed to develop and evaluate baicalein-loaded aquasomes for improving solubility and comparing their antidiabetic properties to acarbose through <i>in silico</i> docking. <p> Methods: Baicalein-loaded aquasomes were prepared through a three-step process: core preparation, lactose coating, and drug loading. The evaluation included assessing particle size, drug-excipient interactions, drug entrapment efficiency, loading capacity, <i>in vitro</i> drug release, and the kinetics of drug release. <i>In silico</i> docking and <i>in vitro</i> &#945;-amylase inhibition activity was evaluated to assess the anti-diabetic potential of baicalein. <p> Results: The baicalein-loaded aquasomes were spherical with sizes ranging from 300-400 nm. FTIR analysis indicated no interaction between the components. The formulation exhibited drug entrapment efficiency of 94.04±0 4.01% and drug loading of 17.60 ± 01.03%. Drug release study showed sustained and complete (97.30 ± 02.06%) release, following first-order kinetics. Docking analysis revealed comparable binding affinity to acarbose, while the &#945;-amylase inhibition assay showed greater inhibition potential of the aquasomes compared to the baicalein solution. <p> Conclusion: Aquasomes offer an alternative approach to conventional delivery methods. The selfassembling characteristics of aquasomes greatly simplify their preparation process, adding to their appeal as a drug delivery system.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[<i>In-silico, in-vitro</i> and <i>in-vivo</i> Biological Activities of Flavonoids for the
Management of Type 2 Diabetes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137280</link><description><![CDATA[In spite of the fact that many medicinal plants have been truly utilized for the management of diabetes all through the world, very few of them have been reported scientifically. Recently, a diverse variety of animal models have been established to better understand the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus, and new medications to treat the condition have been introduced in the market. Flavonoids are naturally occurring substances that can be found in plants and various foods and may have health benefits in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Flavonoids have also been shown to have an anti-inflammatory impact that is significant to neuropathic pain, as indicated by a decrease in several pro-inflammatory mediators such TNF-, NF-B IL-6, and IL-1. Flavonoids appear to be a viable novel therapy option for macrovasular complications in preclinical models; however, human clinical data is still inadequate. Recently, several <i>in silico, in-vitro</i> and <i>in-vivo</i> aproaches were made to evaluate mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of diabetes in a better way. Screening of natural antidiabetic agents from plant sources can be analysed by utilizing advanced <i>in-vitro</i> techniques and animal models. Natural compounds, mostly derived from plants, have been studied in diabetes models generated by chemical agents in the majority of research. The aim of this work was to review the available <i>in silico, in-vitro</i> and animal models of diabetes for screening of natural antidiabetic agents. This review contributes to the scientist's design of new methodologies for the development of novel therapeutic agents having potential antihyperglycemic activity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Probiotics: Therapeutic Strategy on the Prevention and Treatment of
Inflammatory Diseases: Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Celiac
Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135595</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Recent evidence demonstrates the fundamental role of the gut microbiota in inflammatory diseases, and several mechanisms of action of probiotics in improvement of inflammatory parameters. </p> <p> Objectives: The objective of this review was to relate the consumption of probiotic bacteria and its effects on inflammatory diseases, including obesity, type II diabetes and celiac disease. </p> <p> Methods: A search was carried out in English, between the years 2011 and 2022, for research articles and clinical trials with humans and <i>in vivo</i> studies. Research showed improvement in cardiovascular risk markers, and improvement in insulin sensitivity, lipid profile and plasma atherogenic index, in obesity with the use of probiotics. In type II diabetes, decreased levels of fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin and glycemic index, and increased levels of peptide 1, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were observed. </p> <p> Results: In addition to cellular protection of the islets of Langerhans and positive alteration of TNF- &#945; and IL-1&#946; markers. Improvement in the condition of patients with celiac disease was observed, since the neutralization of the imbalance in serotonin levels was observed, reducing the expression of genes of interest and also, a decrease in cytokines. </p> <p> Conclusion: Therefore, the use of probiotics should be encouraged.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Regulation of Selenoproteins in Diabetes: A New Way to Treat Diabetes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140166</link><description><![CDATA[Selenium is an essential micronutrient required for the synthesis and function of selenoproteins, most of which are enzymes involved in maintaining oxidative balance in the body. Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood glucose levels over a prolonged period of time. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. This review summarizes recent advances in the field of diabetes research with an emphasis on the roles of selenoproteins on metabolic disturbance in diabetes. We also discuss the interaction between selenoproteins and glucose and lipid metabolism to provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of diabetes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Guanidinium-based Integrated Peptide Dendrimers: Pioneer Nanocarrier
in Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139772</link><description><![CDATA[The landscape of cancer therapy has witnessed a paradigm shift with the emergence of innovative delivery systems, and Guanidinium-based Peptide Dendrimers have emerged as a vanguard in this transformative journey. With their unique molecular architecture and intrinsic biocompatibility, these dendrimers offer a promising avenue for the targeted delivery of therapeutic cargo in cancer treatment. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate world of Guanidinium- based Peptide Dendrimers, unraveling their structural intricacies, mechanisms of action, and advancements that have propelled them from laboratory curiosities to potential clinical champions. Exploiting the potent properties of guanidinium, these dendrimers exhibit unparalleled precision in encapsulating and transporting diverse cargo molecules, ranging from conventional chemotherapeutics to cutting-edge nucleic acids. The review navigates the depths of their design principles, investigating their prowess in traversing the complex terrain of cellular barriers for optimal cargo delivery. Moreover, it delves into emerging trends, such as personalized therapeutic approaches, multimodal imaging, and bioinformatics-driven design, highlighting their potential to redefine the future of cancer therapy. Crucially, the review addresses the pivotal concerns of biocompatibility and safety, examining cytotoxicity profiles, immune responses, and in vivo studies. It underscores the importance of aligning scientific marvels with the stringent demands of clinical applications. Through each section, the narrative underscores the promises and possibilities that Guanidinium-based Peptide Dendrimers hold and how they can potentially reshape the landscape of precision cancer therapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Elucidating the Role of Pro-renin Receptors in Pancreatic Ductal
Adenocarcinoma Progression: A Novel Therapeutic Target in Cancer
Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137872</link><description><![CDATA[Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignancy with a very poor prognosis. The 5- year survival in these patients is very low, and most patients develop drug resistance to current therapies, so additional studies are needed to identify the potential role of new drug targets for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Recent investigations have been performed regarding the roles of pro-renin receptors (PRR) in the initiation and development of cancers. PRR is a component of the local renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Local tissue RAS has been known in diverse organ systems, including the pancreas. Various investigations have implicated that PRRs are associated with the upregulation of various signaling pathways, like the renin-angiotensin system pathway, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and the Wnt-signaling pathways, to contribute to pathological conditions, including cancer. In this review, we presented an overview of the role of PRR in the progression of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regulation of Gut Microbiota by Herbal Medicines]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139512</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Preserving host health and homeostasis is largely dependent on the human gut microbiome, a varied and ever-changing population of bacteria living in the gastrointestinal tract. This article aims to explore the multifaceted functions of the gut microbiome and shed light on the evolving field of research investigating the impact of herbal medicines on both the composition and functionality of the gut microbiome. Through a comprehensive overview, we aim to provide insights into the intricate relationship between herbal remedies and the gut microbiome, fostering a better understanding of their potential implications for human health.The gut microbiota is composed of trillions of microorganisms, predominantly bacteria, but also viruses, fungi, and archaea. It functions as a complex ecosystem that interacts with the host in various ways. It aids in nutrient metabolism, modulates the immune system, provides protection against pathogens, and influences host physiology. Moreover, it has been linked to a range of health outcomes, including digestion, metabolic health, and even mental well-being. Recent research has shed light on the potential of herbal medicines to modulate the gut microbiome. Herbal medicines, derived from plants and often used in traditional medicine systems, contain a diverse array of phytochemicals, which can directly or indirectly impact gut microbial composition. These phytochemicals can either act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, or possess antimicrobial properties, targeting harmful pathogens. Several studies have demonstrated the effects of specific herbal medicines on the gut microbiome. For example, extracts from herbs have been shown to enhance the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, while reducing potentially harmful microbes. Moreover, herbal medicines have exhibited promising antimicrobial effects against certain pathogenic bacteria. The modulation of the gut microbiome by herbal medicines has potential therapeutic implications. Research suggests herbal interventions could be harnessed to alleviate gastrointestinal disorders, support immune function, and even impact metabolic health. However, it is important to note that individual responses to herbal treatments can vary due to genetics, diet, and baseline microbiome composition. <p> In conclusion, the gut microbiome is a critical player in maintaining human health, and its modulation by herbal medicines is a burgeoning area of research. Understanding the complex interactions between herbal compounds and gut microbiota will pave the way for innovative approaches to personalized healthcare and the development of herbal-based therapeutics aimed at promoting gut health and overall well-being.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Selenium Nanoparticles in Addressing Diabetic
Complications: A Comprehensive Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139455</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes, as an emerging epidemic, has put forward a significant spotlight on the evolving population worldwide grounded upon the remarkable affliction of healthcare along with economical conflict. Various studies suggested that, in modern society, lack of maintenance of a healthy life style leads to the occurrence of diabetes as insulin resistant, later having a damaging effect on the pancreatic &#946;-cells, suggesting various complications. Furthermore, diabetes management is controversial owing to different opinions based on the prevention of complications. For this purpose, nanostructured materials (NSM) like selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have proved their efficiency in the therapeutic management of such serious diseases. This review offers an in- -depth idea regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis and various conventional therapeutics of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, shedding light on Diabetic Nephropathy (DN), a case study of type 1 diabetes. Moreover, this review provides an exhaustive study by highlighting the economic and healthcare burdens associated with diabetes along with the controversies associated with conventional therapeutic management and the promising role of NSM like selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), as a novel weapon for encountering such fatal diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Identification of Prognostic Markers and Potential Therapeutic Targets
using Gene Expression Profiling and Simulation Studies in Pancreatic
Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134515</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a 5-year relative survival rate of less than 10% making it one of the most fatal cancers. A lack of early measures of prognosis, challenges in molecular targeted therapy, ineffective adjuvant chemotherapy, and strong resistance to chemotherapy cumulatively make pancreatic cancer challenging to manage. <p> Objective: The present study aims to enhance understanding of the disease mechanism and its progression by identifying prognostic biomarkers, potential drug targets, and candidate drugs that can be used for therapy in pancreatic cancer. <p> Methods: Gene expression profiles from the GEO database were analyzed to identify reliable prognostic markers and potential drug targets. The disease's molecular mechanism and biological pathways were studied by investigating gene ontologies, KEGG pathways, and survival analysis to understand the strong prognostic power of key DEGs. FDA-approved anti-cancer drugs were screened through cell line databases, and docking studies were performed to identify drugs with high affinity for ARNTL2 and PIK3C2A. Molecular dynamic simulations of drug targets ARNTL2 and PIK3C2A in their native state and complex with nilotinib were carried out for 100 ns to validate their therapeutic potential in PDAC. <p> Results: Differentially expressed genes that are crucial regulators, including SUN1, PSMG3, PIK3C2A, SCRN1, and TRIAP1, were identified. Nilotinib as a candidate drug was screened using sensitivity analysis on CCLE and GDSC pancreatic cancer cell lines. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed the underlying mechanism of the binding of nilotinib with ARNTL2 and PIK3C2A and the dynamic perturbations. It validated nilotinib as a promising drug for pancreatic cancer. <p> Conclusion: This study accounts for prognostic markers, drug targets, and repurposed anti-cancer drugs to highlight their usefulness for translational research on developing novel therapies. Our results revealed potential and prospective clinical applications in drug targets ARNTL2, EGFR, and PI3KC2A for pancreatic cancer therapy.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[High-expression of FABP4 in Tubules is a Risk Factor for Poor
Prognosis in DKD Patients]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138236</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Lipid metabolism imbalance is involved in the mechanism of renal tubular injury in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) has been reported to participate in cellular lipid toxicity. However, the expression of FABP4 in renal tissues of DKD and its correlation with clinical/ pathological parameters and prognosis have not been studied. <p> Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 108 hospitalized Type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with renal injury, including 70 with DKD and 38 with NDKD (non-DKD). Clinical features, pathological findings, and follow-up parameters were collected. Serum and urine FABP4 were detected by ELISA. An immunohistochemistry stain was used to determine FABP4 in renal tubulointerstitium. A double immunofluorescence stain was employed to assess FABP4- and CD68-positive macrophages. Correlation analysis, logistic regression models, receiver operating characteristic (ROC), and Kaplan-Meier survival curve were performed for statistical analysis. <p> Results: DKD patients had increased expression of FABP4 and ectopic fat deposition in tubules. As shown by correlation analyses, FABP4 expression in renal tubules was positively correlated with UNAG (r=0.589, p=0.044) and ESRD (r=0.740, p=0.004). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that UNAG level was correlated with FABP4 expression level above median value (odds ratio:1.154, 95% confidence interval:1.009-1.321, p=0.037). High-expression of FABP4 in renal tubules of DKD was at an increased risk of ESRD. Increased FABP4 expression in inflammatory cells was also associated with ESRD in DKD. <p> Conclusion: High-expression of FABP4 is involved in the pathogenesis of renal tubular lipid injury and is a risk factor for poor prognosis in DKD patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Therapeutic Targets for the Management of Diabetes
Mellitus Type 2]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131352</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes is one of the lifelong chronic metabolic diseases which is prevalent globally. There is a continuous rise in the number of people suffering from this disease with time. It is characterized by hyperglycemia, which leads to severe damage to the body’s system, such as blood vessels and nerves. Diabetes occurs due to the dysfunction of pancreatic &#946; -cell which leads to the reduction in the production of insulin or body cells unable to use insulin produce efficiently. As per the data shared International diabetes federation (IDF), there are around 415 million affected by this disease worldwide. There are a number of hit targets available that can be focused on treating diabetes. There are many drugs available and still under development for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Inhibition of gluconeogenesis, lipolysis, fatty acid oxidation, and glucokinase activator is emerging targets for type 2 diabetes treatment. Diabetes management can be supplemented with drug intervention for obesity. The antidiabetic drug sale is the second-largest in the world, trailing only that of cancer. The future of managing diabetes will be guided by research on various novel targets and the development of various therapeutic leads, such as GLP-1 agonists, DPP-IV inhibitors, and SGLT2 inhibitors that have recently completed their different phases of clinical trials. Among these therapeutic targets associated with type 2 diabetes, this review focused on some common therapeutic targets for developing novel drug candidates of the newer generation with better safety and efficacy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeting TYK2 for Fighting Diseases: Recent Advance of TYK2
Inhibitors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130352</link><description><![CDATA[TYK2 (tyrosine-protein kinase 2) is a non-receptor protein kinase belonging to the JAK family and is closely associated with various diseases, such as psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus. TYK2 activates the downstream proteins STAT1-5 by participating in the signal transduction of immune factors such as IL-12, IL-23, and IL-10, resulting in immune expression. The activity of the inhibitor TYK2 can effectively block the transduction of excessive immune signals and treat diseases. TYK2 inhibitors are divided into two types of inhibitors according to the different binding sites. One is a TYK2 inhibitor that binds to JH2 and inhibits its activity through an allosteric mechanism. The representative inhibitor is BMS-986165, developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb. The other class binds to the JH1 adenosine triphosphate (ATP) site and prevents the catalytic activity of the kinase by blocking ATP and downstream phosphorylation. This paper mainly introduces the protein structure, signaling pathway, synthesis, structure-activity relationship and clinical research of TYK2 inhibitors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Therapeutic Potential and Prospects of L-arginine in Various Diseases and
its Clinical Intervention]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135786</link><description><![CDATA[The goal of this review is to explored the therapeutic application of L-Arginine (L-ARG) against various pathological illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), cardiovascular disorder, mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, stroke-like episodes (MELAS), sickle cell anemia, tumour, epilepsy, erectile dysfunction therapy (ED), gestational hypertension (GH), and menopause issues. L-ARG is an important semi-essential alpha-amino acid that serves as a natural precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO). It is generally synthesized from proteinogenic amino acid proline through glutamine and glutamate. The degradation of L-ARG is a complex process due to the expression of multiple enzymes in the form of a substrate. The metabolism of L-ARG takes place in various multiple pathways, such as nitric oxide synthase, Arginine glycine amidinotransferase, and Arginine decarboxylase which results in the production of a diverse range of biochemical compounds, such as nitric oxide, polyamines, proline, glutamate, creanine, agmatine homoarginine, and urea. NO is a highly diffusible free radicle with a regulatory function in the heart and acts as an important vasodilator in intact endothelium. NO serves as an important neurotransmitter in the brain and a mediator of host defense in the immune system. L-ARG is also needed for ammonia detoxification, which is a very toxic chemical to the central nervous system. This review article focuses on the relevance of L-ARG in the prevention and treatment of a variety of illnesses.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Update on Pharmacological and Phytochemical Aspects of <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don - A Promising Anti-diabetic Plant]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138113</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The genus Costus is the largest genus in the family Costaceae and encompasses about 150 known species. Among these, <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don (Synonym: <i>Costus mexicanus</i>) is a traditional medicinal herb used to treat diabetes and other ailments. Currently, available treatment options in modern medicine have several adverse effects. Herbal medicines are gaining importance as they are cost-effective and display improved therapeutic effects with fewer side effects. Scientists have been seeking therapeutic compounds in plants, and various <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> studies report <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don as a potential source in treating various diseases. Phytochemicals with various pharmacological properties of <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don, <i>viz</i>. anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, diuretic, analgesic, and anti-microbial have been worked out and reported in the literature. <P> Objective: The aim of the review is to categorize and summarize the available information on phytochemicals and pharmacological properties of <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don and suggest outlooks for future research. <P> Methods: This review combined scientific data regarding the use of <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don plant for the management of diabetes and other ailments. A systematic search was performed on <i>Costus pictus</i> plant with anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and other pharmacological properties using several search engines such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Sci-Finder, other online journals and books for detailed analysis. <P> Results: Research data compilation and critical review of the information would be beneficial for further exploration of its pharmacological and phytochemical aspects and, consequently, new drug development. Bioactivity-guided fractionation, isolation, and purification of new chemical entities from the plant as well as pharmacological evaluation of the same will lead to the search for safe and effective novel drugs for better healthcare. <P> Conclusion: This review critically summarizes the reports on natural compounds, and different extract of <i>Costus pictus</i> D. Don with their potent anti-diabetic activity along with other pharmacological activity. Since this review has been presented in a very interactive manner showing the geographical region of availability, parts of plant used, mechanism of action and phytoconstituents in different extracts of <i>Costus pictus</i> responsible for particular action, it will be of great importance to the interested readers to focus on the development of the new drug leads for the treatment of diseases.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Remedial Dosing Recommendations for Sirolimus Delayed or Missed Dosages
Caused by Poor Medication Compliance in Pediatric Tuberous Sclerosis
Complex Patients]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138971</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Delayed or missed dosages caused by poor medication compliance significantly affected the treatment of diseases in children. <p> Aims: The present study aimed to investigate the influence of delayed or missed dosages on sirolimus pharmacokinetics (PK) in pediatric tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) patients and to recommend remedial dosages for nonadherent patients. <p> Methods: A published sirolimus population PK model in pediatric TSC patients was used to assess the influence of different nonadherence scenarios and recommend optimally remedial dosages based on Monte Carlo simulation. Thirteen nonadherent scenarios were simulated in this study, including delayed 2h, 4 h, 6 h, 8 h, 10 h, 12 h, 14 h, 16 h, 18 h, 20 h, 22 h, 23.5 h, and missed one dosage. Remedial dosing strategies contained 10-200% of scheduled dosages. The optimal remedial dosage was that with the maximum probability of returning the individual therapeutic range. <p> Results: For delayed or missed sirolimus dosages in pediatric TSC patients, when the delayed time was 0-8 h, 8-10 h, 10-18 h, 18-22.7 h, 22.7-24 h, 70%, 60%, 40%, 30%, 20% scheduled dosages were recommended to take immediately. When one dosage was missed, 120% of scheduled dosages were recommended at the next dose. <p> Conclusion: It was the first time to recommend remedial dosages for delayed or missed sirolimus therapy caused by poor medication compliance in pediatric TSC patients based on Monte Carlo simulation. Meanwhile, the present study provided a potential solution for delayed or missed dosages in clinical practice.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anti-Gene IGF-I Vaccines in Cancer Gene Therapy: A Review of a
Case of Glioblastoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136381</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: Vaccines for the deadliest brain tumor - glioblastoma (GBM) - are generally based on targeting growth factors or their receptors, often using antibodies. The vaccines described in the review were prepared to suppress the principal cancer growth factor - IGF-I, using anti-gene approaches either of antisense (AS) or of triple helix (TH) type. Our objective was to increase the median survival of patients treated with AS and TH cell vaccines. <P> Methodology: The cells were transfected <i>in vitro</i> by both constructed IGF-I AS and IGF-I TH expression episomal vectors; part of these cells was co-cultured with plant phytochemicals, modulating IGF-I expression. Both AS and TH approaches completely suppressed IGF-I expression and induced MHC-1 / B7 immunogenicity related to the IGF-I receptor signal. <P> Results: This immunogenicity proved to be stronger in IGF-I TH than in IGF-I AS-prepared cell vaccines, especially in TH / phytochemical cells. The AS and TH vaccines generated an important TCD8+ and TCD8+CD11b- immune response in treated GBM patients and increased the median survival of patients up to 17-18 months, particularly using TH vaccines; in some cases, 2- and 3-year survival was reported. These clinical results were compared with those obtained in therapies targeting other growth factors. <P> Conclusion: The anti-gene IGF-I vaccines continue to be applied in current GBM personalized medicine. Technical improvements in the preparation of AS and TH vaccines to increase MHC-1 and B7 immunogenicity have, in parallel, allowed to increase in the median survival of patients.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Body Fat Distribution Contributes to Defining the Relationship between
Insulin Resistance and Obesity in Human Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133680</link><description><![CDATA[The risk for metabolic and cardiovascular complications of obesity is defined by body fat distribution rather than global adiposity. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat (including hepatic steatosis) reflects insulin resistance and predicts type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In humans, available evidence indicates that the ability to store triglycerides in the subcutaneous adipose tissue reflects enhanced insulin sensitivity. Prospective studies document an association between larger subcutaneous fat mass at baseline and reduced incidence of impaired glucose tolerance. Case-control studies reveal an association between genetic predisposition to insulin resistance and a lower amount of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorgamma (PPAR-γ) promotes subcutaneous adipocyte differentiation and subcutaneous fat deposition, improving insulin resistance and reducing visceral fat. Thiazolidinediones reproduce the effects of PPAR-γ activation and therefore increase the amount of subcutaneous fat while enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing visceral fat. Partial or virtually complete lack of adipose tissue (lipodystrophy) is associated with insulin resistance and its clinical manifestations, including essential hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, reduced HDL-c, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. Patients with Prader Willi syndrome manifest severe subcutaneous obesity without insulin resistance. The impaired ability to accumulate fat in the subcutaneous adipose tissue may be due to deficient triglyceride synthesis, inadequate formation of lipid droplets, or defective adipocyte differentiation. Lean and obese humans develop insulin resistance when the capacity to store fat in the subcutaneous adipose tissue is exhausted and deposition of triglycerides is no longer attainable at that location. Existing adipocytes become large and reflect the presence of insulin resistance.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of LncRNA MIAT in Diabetic Complications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134512</link><description><![CDATA[Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) refers to a large class of RNAs with over 200 nucleotides that do not have the function of encoding proteins. In recent years, more and more literature has revealed that lncRNA is involved in manipulating genes related to human health and disease, playing outstanding biological functions, which has attracted widespread attention from researchers. The newly discovered long-stranded non-coding RNA myocardial infarction-related transcript (LncRNA MIAT) is abnormally expressed in a variety of diseases, especially in diabetic complications, and has been proven to have a wide range of effects. This review article aimed to summarize the importance of LncRNA MIAT in diabetic complications, such as diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and diabetic retinopathy, and highlight the latest findings on the pathway and mechanism of its participation in regulating diabetic complications, which may aid in finding new intervention targets for the treatment of diabetic complications. LncRNA MIAT competitively binds microRNAs to regulate gene expression as competitive endogenous RNAs. Thus, this review article has reviewed the biological function and pathogenesis of LncRNA MIAT in diabetic complications and described its role in diabetic complications. This paper will help in finding new therapeutic targets and intervention strategies for diabetes complications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[GLP-1/GLP-1RAs: New Options for the Drug Treatment of NAFLD]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137386</link><description><![CDATA[Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has recently emerged as a global public health concern. Currently, the cornerstone of NAFLD treatment is lifestyle modification and, if necessary, weight loss. However, compliance is a challenge, and this approach alone may not be sufficient to halt and treat the more serious disease development, so medication is urgently needed. Nevertheless, no medicines are approved to treat NAFLD. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an enteropeptide hormone that inhibits glucagon synthesis, promotes insulin secretion, and delays gastric emptying. GLP-1 has been found in recent studies to be beneficial for the management of NAFLD, and the marketed GLP-1 agonist drugs have different degrees of effectiveness for NAFLD while lowering blood glucose. In this article, we review GLP-1 and its physiological roles, the pathogenesis of NAFLD, the correlation between NAFLD and GLP-1 signaling, and potential strategies for GLP-1 treatment of NAFLD.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Mechanistic Review on Therapeutic Potential of Medicinal Plants and their
Pharmacologically Active Molecules for Targeting Metabolic Syndrome]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136836</link><description><![CDATA[Metabolic syndrome (MetS) therapy with phytochemicals is an emerging field of study with therapeutic potential. Obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and abnormal lipid profiles are all components of metabolic syndrome, which is a major public health concern across the world. New research highlights the promise of phytochemicals found in foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, as a sustainable and innovative method of treating this illness. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and insulin-sensitizing qualities are just a few of the many positive impacts shown by bioactive substances. Collectively, they alleviate the hallmark symptoms of metabolic syndrome by modulating critical metabolic pathways, boosting insulin sensitivity, decreasing oxidative stress, and calming chronic low-grade inflammation. In addition, phytochemicals provide a multimodal strategy by targeting not only adipose tissue but also the liver, skeletal muscle, and vascular endothelium, all of which have a role in the pathogenesis of MetS. Increasing evidence suggests that these natural chemicals may be useful in controlling metabolic syndrome as a complementary treatment to standard medication or lifestyle changes. This review article emphasizes the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals, illuminating their varied modes of action and their ability to alleviate the interconnected causes of metabolic syndrome. Phytochemical-based interventions show promise as a novel and sustainable approach to combating the rising global burden of metabolic syndrome, with the ultimate goal of bettering public health and quality of life.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Alkaloids as Promising Agents for the Management of Insulin Resistance:
A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136419</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Insulin resistance is one of the main factors that lead to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The effect of alkaloids on insulin resistance has been extensively examined according to multiple scientific researches. </P><P> Objective: In this work, we aimed to summarize the interesting results from preclinical and clinical studies that assessed the effects of natural alkaloids (berberine, nigelladine A, piperine, trigonelline, capsaicin, nuciferine, evodiamine, mahanine, and magnoflorine) on impaired insulin sensitivity and worsened insulin resistance, which play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. </P><P> Methods: In the current review, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, and Google Scholar databases were used. The inclusion criteria were based on the following keywords and phrases: insulin sensitivity, insulin resistance, alkaloids and insulin resistance, alkaloids and type 2 diabetes, mechanisms of action, and alkaloids. </P><P> Results: The outcomes reported in this review demonstrated that the selected alkaloids increased insulin sensitivity and reduced insulin resistance <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> evidence, as well as in clinical trials, through improving insulin-signaling transduction mainly in hepatocytes, myocytes, and adipocytes, both at cellular and molecular levels. Insulin signaling components (InsR, IRS-1, PI3K, Akt, <i>etc.</i>), protein kinases and phosphatases, receptors, ion channels, cytokines, adipokines, and microRNAs, are influenced by alkaloids at transcriptional and translational levels, also in terms of function (activity and/or phosphorylation). Multiple perturbations associated with insulin resistance, such as ectopic lipid accumulation, inflammation, ER stress, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and &#946;-cell failure, are reversed after treatment with alkaloids. Furthermore, various indices and tests are employed to assess insulin resistance, including the Matsuda index, insulin sensitivity index (ISI), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and insulin tolerance test (ITT), which are all enhanced by alkaloids. These improvements extend to fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and HbA1c levels as well. Additionally, the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and the Homeostasis Model Assessment of &#946;-cell function (HOMA-&#946;) are recognized as robust markers of insulin sensitivity and &#946;-cell function, and it is noteworthy that alkaloids also lead to improvements in these two markers. </P><P> Conclusion: Based on the findings of the current review, alkaloids may serve as both preventive and curative agents for metabolic disorders, specifically type 2 diabetes. Nonetheless, there is an urgent need for additional clinical trials to explore the potential benefits of alkaloids in both healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, it is crucial to assess any possible side effects and interactions with antidiabetic drugs.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Antibody-modified Gold Nanobiostructures: Advancing Targeted
Photodynamic Therapy for Improved Cancer Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136209</link><description><![CDATA[Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative, non-invasive method of treating cancer that uses light-activated photosensitizers to create reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, challenges associated with the limited penetration depth of light and the need for precise control over photosensitizer activation have hindered its clinical translation. Nanomedicine, particularly gold nanobiostructures, offers promising solutions to overcome these limitations. This paper reviews the advancements in PDT and nanomedicine, focusing on applying antibody-modified gold nanobiostructures as multifunctional platforms for enhanced PDT efficacy and improved cancer treatment outcomes. The size, shape, and composition of gold nanobiostructures can significantly influence their PDT efficacy, making synthetic procedures crucial. Functionalizing the surface of gold nanobiostructures with various molecules, such as antibodies or targeting agents, bonding agents, PDT agents, photothermal therapy (PTT) agents, chemo-agents, immunotherapy agents, and imaging agents, allows composition modification. Integrating gold nanobiostructures with PDT holds immense potential for targeted cancer therapy. Antibody-modified gold nanobiostructures, in particular, have gained significant attention due to their tunable plasmonic characteristics, biocompatibility, and surface functionalization capabilities. These multifunctional nanosystems possess unique properties that enhance the efficacy of PDT, including improved light absorption, targeted delivery, and enhanced ROS generation. Passive and active targeting of gold nanobiostructures can enhance their localization near cancer cells, leading to efficient eradication of tumor tissues upon light irradiation. Future research and clinical studies will continue to explore the potential of gold nanobiostructures in PDT for personalized and effective cancer therapy. The synthesis, functionalization, and characterization of gold nanobiostructures, their interaction with light, and their impact on photosensitizers' photophysical and photochemical properties, are important areas of investigation. Strategies to enhance targeting efficiency and the evaluation of gold nanobiostructures in vitro and in vivo studies will further advance their application in PDT. The integrating antibody-modified gold nanobiostructures in PDT represents a promising strategy for targeted cancer therapy. These multifunctional nanosystems possess unique properties that enhance PDT efficacy, including improved light absorption, targeted delivery, and enhanced ROS generation. Continued research and development in this field will contribute to the advancement of personalized and effective cancer treatment approaches.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Doege-Potter Syndrome; A Case of Solitary Fibrous Pleura Tumor Associated
with Severe Hypoglycemia: A Case Report in Internal Medicine]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132645</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Doege-Potter syndrome is a rare paraneoplastic entity that is often diagnosed incidentally during the work-up of hypoglycemia of unclear etiology. It is characterized by a non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia mostly associated with solitary fibrous tumors. These uncommon tumors have been reported in <5% of solitary fibrous tumors. Although not unique in its kind, this case is extremely important as this syndrome often conceals unrecognized tumors that can be surgically resolved. <p> Case Presentation: We present the case of a 59-year-old non-diabetic man with a 2-month history of severe and recurrent fasting hypoglycaemia presenting with severe dyspnea and sweating. Further workup revealed low insulin, C-peptide, and IGF-1 levels and a large right in-trathoracic solitary fibrous tumor. Unfortunately, bioassays for IGF-2 were unavailable at our hos-pital. Nevertheless, as hypoglycemia completely resolved after resection of the mass, Doege-Potter syndrome was highly suspected. <p> Conclusion: Doege-Potter syndrome is a complication of rare tumors. If hy-poglycemia is unexplained, this syndrome should always be suspected, and the presence of un-known masses should be investigated.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Alleviative Effects of Adipose Tissue-derived Stem Cells and &#945;-NETA on
Metabolic, Biochemical, and Endocrine Parameters in a Letrozole-induced Rat
Model of PCOS]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133672</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most prevalent reproductive disorder, is accompanied by hyperandrogenism (HA), ovulatory dysfunction (OD), and insulin resistance (IR). A number of reports indicate that adipokines play a vital role in the pathophysiology of PCOS. One of these adipokines is chemerin, which is engaged in metabolic disorders, especially obesity, diabetes, and PCOS. Based on the data, the circulating levels of chemerin and the expression of chemokine-like receptor-1 (CMKLR1) in white adipose tissue (WAT) of women with PCOS are significantly higher than in healthy ones. Currently, several scholars have emphasized the therapeutic capacities of stem cells, notably mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), for the treatment of PCOS. <p> Objective: In this study, for the first time, the impacts of 2-(&#945;-naphthoyl) ethyltrimethylammonium iodide (&#945;- NETA), an antagonist of CMKLR1, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), and their combinations on metabolic and endocrine aberrancies were assessed in the WAT and ovarian tissues of the letrozole (LET)-induced PCOS rats. <p> Methods: In the current study, 30 Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: control (n = 6), LET-induced PCOS (1.5 mg/kg p.o., n = 6), LET + ADSCs (10<sup>6</sup> ADSCs i.v., n = 6), LET + &#945;-NETA (10 mg/kg p.o., n = 6), and LET + ADSCs + &#945;-NETA (n = 6). The blood samples and adipose and ovarian tissues were obtained to evaluate the effects of ADSCs and &#945;-NETA on hormonal and metabolic parameters in the PCOS rats. <p> Results: Our findings showed that the administration of &#945;-NETA, ADSCs, and the combination of both favorably restored the irregular estrus cycle and considerably modulated the endocrine parameters in PCOS rats. In addition, these therapeutic factors remarkably regulated steroidogenic and adipogenic gene expressions, as well as the genes related to glucose metabolism and brown adipose tissue (BAT) markers in these animals. <p> Conclusion: These findings indicate that the combination of ADSCs and &#945;-NETA can successfully ameliorate metabolic and endocrine dysfunction in LET-induced PCOS rats, and this strategy could be a new therapeutic choice for patients with PCOS.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Novel Approaches to the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Patients with
Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132745</link><description><![CDATA[Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM). Although benefit has been attributed to the strict control of hyperglycemia with traditional antidiabetic treatments, novel antidiabetic medications have demonstrated cardiovascular (CV) safety and benefits by reducing major adverse cardiac events, improving heart failure (HF), and decreasing CVD-related mortality. Emerging data underline the interrelation between diabetes, as a metabolic disorder, and inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Conventional glucose-lowering medications demonstrate controversial CV effects. Dipeptidyl peptidase- 4 inhibitors have not only failed to prove to be beneficial in patients with coronary artery disease, but also their safety is questionable for the treatment of patients with CVD. However, metformin, as the first-line option for type 2 DM (T2DM), shows CVD protective properties for DM-induced atherosclerotic and macrovascular complications. Thiazolidinedione and sulfonylureas have questionable effects, as evidence from large studies shows a reduction in the risk of CV events and deaths, but with an increased rate of hospitalization for HF. Moreover, several studies have revealed that insulin monotherapy for T2DM treatment increases the risk of major CV events and deaths from HF, when compared to metformin, although it may reduce the risk of myocardial infarction. Finally, this review aimed to summarize the mechanisms of action of novel antidiabetic drugs acting as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors that show favorable effects on blood pressure, lipid levels, and inflammation, leading to reduced CVD risk in T2DM patients.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Kaempferol: A Dietary Flavonol in Alleviating Obesity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133012</link><description><![CDATA[Obesity is considered as a chronic and high-prevalence disease on a global scale which affects all genders and ages. Although various drugs have been confirmed for the treatment of obesity, these medications have been shown to have a number of adverse effects on health. It is highlighted that natural products have an alleviative role in a broad spectrum of diseases, in particular obesity, and diabetes. Kaempferol (KMP), a plant- derived flavonol, is considerably engaged in the suppression of oxidative stress, radical scavenging, opposing cellular toxicity, and induction of the production and release of growth factors. This flavonol combats obesity by suppressing adipogenesis, regulating lipid and glucose metabolism, changing gut microbiota, and activating autophagy. Also, studies have shown that KMP exerts its anti-obesity actions by decreasing the accumulation of lipids and triglycerides (TGs), increasing fatty acid oxidation, and regulating multiple metabolic genes in the adipocytes. Considering that KMP may be a potential candidate for combating obesity, this paper summarizes the possible therapeutic roles of KMP in the treatment and prevention of this disease.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anti-obesity Properties of Phytochemicals: Highlighting their Molecular
Mechanisms against Obesity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131872</link><description><![CDATA[Obesity is a complex, chronic and inflammatory disease that affects more than one-third of the world’s population, leading to a higher incidence of diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer. Several phytochemicals are used as flavoring and aromatic compounds, also exerting many benefits for public health. This study aims to summarize and scrutinize the beneficial effects of the most important phytochemicals against obesity. Systematic research of the current international literature was carried out in the most accurate scientific databases, e.g., Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, using a set of critical and representative keywords, such as phytochemicals, obesity, metabolism, metabolic syndrome, etc. Several studies unraveled the potential positive effects of phytochemicals such as berberine, carvacrol, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, thymol, etc., against obesity and metabolic disorders. Mechanisms of action include inhibition of adipocyte differentiation, browning of the white adipose tissue, inhibition of enzymes such as lipase and amylase, suppression of inflammation, improvement of the gut microbiota, and downregulation of obesity-inducing genes. In conclusion, multiple bioactive compounds-phytochemicals exert many beneficial effects against obesity. Future molecular and clinical studies must be performed to unravel the multiple molecular mechanisms and anti-obesity activities of these naturally occurring bioactive compounds.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Intracellular Compartmentalization: A Key Determinant of MicroRNA Functions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130568</link><description><![CDATA[Being an integral part of the eukaryotic transcriptome, miRNAs are regarded as vital regulators of diverse developmental and physiological processes. Clearly, miRNA activity is kept in check by various regulatory mechanisms that control their biogenesis and decay pathways. With the increasing technical depth of RNA profiling technologies, novel insights have unravelled the spatial diversity exhibited by miRNAs inside a cell. Compartmentalization of miRNAs adds complexity to the regulatory circuits of miRNA expression, thereby providing superior control over the miRNA function. This review provides a bird’s eye view of miRNAs expressed in different subcellular locations, thus affecting the gene regulatory pathways therein. Occurrence of miRNAs in diverse intracellular locales also reveals various unconventional roles played by miRNAs in different cellular organelles and expands the scope of miRNA functions beyond their traditionally known repressive activities.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Insights into Pharmacological Potential of Apigenin through Various Pathways on a Nanoplatform in Multitude of Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132148</link><description><![CDATA[Apigenin is a natural polyphenolic compound widely distributed as a glycoside in fruits and vegetables. Apigenin belongs to BCS class II with low solubility, which leads to poor absorption and bioavailability. It is mostly absorbed from the small intestine and extensively metabolized through glucuronidation and sulfation processes. Apigenin is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a chemopreventive drug in the management of various cancers. Pharmacological effects of apigenin have a wide range, from neuroprotective to treating renal disorders. Apigenin is non-toxic in nature and acts through various pathways (JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB) to exert its therapeutic efficacy. Numerous formulations have been researched to enhance the bioavailability and pharmacological effects of apigenin. Combinatorial therapies are also researched to minimize the side-effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. The review presents pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects of apigenin. Apigenin is safe for the treatment and management of numerous diseases. It can be easily incorporated into nanoformulation alone or in combination with other active ingredients to widen the therapeutic window. This review intends to help in drug optimization and therapeutic efficacy maximization for future studies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Significance of Beta-Blocker in Patients with Hypertensive Left Ventricular
Hypertrophy and Myocardial Ischemia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129214</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Arterial Hypertension (HTN) is a key risk factor for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and a cause of ischemic heart disease (IHD). The association between myocardial ischemia and HTN LVH is strong because myocardial ischemia can occur in HTN LVH even in the absence of significant stenoses of epicardial coronary arteries. </p><p> Objective: To analyze pathophysiological characteristics/co-morbidities precipitating myocardial ischemia in patients with HTN LVH and provide a rationale for recommending beta-blockers (BBs) to prevent/treat ischemia in LVH. </p><p> Methods: We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, PubMed, Elsevier, Springer Verlag, and Google Scholar for review articles and guidelines on hypertension from 01/01/2000 until 01/05/2022. The search was limited to publications written in English. </p><p> Results: HTN LVH worsens ischemia in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Even without obstructive CAD, several pathophysiological mechanisms in HTN LVH can lead to myocardial ischemia. In the same guidelines that recommend BBs for patients with HTN and CAD, we could not find a single recommendation for BBs in patients with HTN LVH but without proven CAD. There are several reasons for the proposal of using some BBs to control ischemia in patients with HTN and LVH (even in the absence of obstructive CAD). </p><p> Conclusion: Some BBs ought to be considered to prevent/treat ischemia in patients with HTN LVH (even in the absence of obstructive CAD). Furthermore, LVH and ischemic events are important causes of ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death; these events are another reason for recommending certain BBs for HTN LVH.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Genipin Inhibits the Development of Osteosarcoma through PI3K/AKT
Signaling Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131609</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Osteosarcoma is a highly invasive and early metastatic tumor. At present, the toxic and side effects of chemotherapy affect the quality of life of cancer patients to varying degrees. Genipin is an extract of the natural medicine gardenia with various pharmacological activities. <p> Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Genipin on osteosarcoma and its potential mechanism of action. <p> Methods: Crystal violet staining, MTT assay and colony formation assay were used to detect the effect of genipin on the proliferation of osteosarcoma. The effects of vitexin on migration and invasion of osteosarcoma were detected by scratch healing assay and transwell assay. Hoechst staining and flow cytometry were used to detect the effect of genipin on apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells. The expression of related proteins was detected by Western blot. An orthotopic tumorigenic animal model was used to verify the effect of genipin on osteosarcoma in vivo. <p> Results: The results of crystal violet staining, MTT method and colony formation method proved that genipin significantly inhibited the proliferation of osteosarcoma cells. The results of the scratch healing assay and transwell assay showed that gen significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of osteosarcoma cells. The results of Hoechst staining and flow cytometry showed that genipin significantly promoted the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells. The results of animal experiments show that genipin has the same anti-tumor effect in vivo. Genipin may inhibit the growth of osteosarcoma through PI3K/AKT signaling. <p> Conclusion: Genipin can inhibit the growth of human osteosarcoma cells, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Inflammation, Immunonutrition, and Pathogenesis
of COVID-19]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130505</link><description><![CDATA[The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, has claimed millions of lives worldwide in the past two years. Fatalities among the elderly with underlying cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and diabetes have particularly been high. A bibliometrics analysis on author’s keywords was carried out, and searched for possible links between various coronavirus studies over the past 50 years, and integrated them. We found keywords like immune system, immunity, nutrition, malnutrition, micronutrients, exercise, inflammation, and hyperinflammation were highly related to each other. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that the human immune system is a multilevel super complex system, which employs multiple strategies to contain microorganism infections and restore homeostasis. It was also found that the behavior of the immune system is not able to be described by a single immunological theory. However, one main strategy is “self-destroy and rebuild”, which consists of a series of inflammatory responses: 1) active self-destruction of damaged/dysfunctional somatic cells; 2) removal of debris and cells; 3) rebuilding tissues. Thus, invading microorganisms’ clearance could be only a passive bystander response to this destroy-rebuild process. Microbial infections could be self-limiting and promoted as an indispensable essential nutrition for the vast number of genes existing in the microorganisms. The transient nutrition surge resulting from the degradation of the self-destroyed cell debris coupled with the existing nutrition state in the patient may play an important role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Finally, a few possible coping strategies to mitigate COVID-19, including vaccination, are discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Protective Effects of Silymarin on the Reproductive Toxicity: A
Comprehensive Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129155</link><description><![CDATA[The reproductive system is extremely vulnerable to chemotherapy drugs, ionizing radiation, toxic heavy metals, chemicals, and so on. These harmful stimuli are able to induce oxidative damage, apoptosis, inflammation, and other mechanisms in the reproductive organs, leading to different adverse reproductive effects. It was shown that using medicinal plants (medicinal herbs) can be an effective medication for the prevention and treatment of multiple health conditions. Silymarin is a medicinal herb extract, obtained from the seeds of Silybum marianum. This herbal agent is a nontoxic agent even at relatively high physiological dose values, which suggests that it is safe for use in the treatment of different diseases. The hepato-, neuro-, cardio- and nephro-protective effects of silymarin have been assessed previously. The protective activities of silymarin can point to anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, immunomodulatory, and membrane-stabilizing properties. In this review, we aim to summarize current studies on the protective potentials of silymarin against reproductive toxicity. The molecular mechanisms of silymarin protection against cellular toxicity are also studied. Moreover, the findings obtained from improved formulations and delivery systems of silymarin have been addressed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Effect of Synthetic Curcumin Analogues on Obesity, Diabetes
and Cardiovascular Disease: A Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129957</link><description><![CDATA[Obesity, as an unfavorable consequence of our modern lifestyle, can promote the emergence of other disorders, like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, that negatively impact quality of life. Therefore, prevention and treatment of obesity and its related comorbidities are critical. Lifestyle modification is the first and most important step but, in practical terms, presents a major challenge to many patients. So, the development of new strategies and therapies is critical for these patients. Although herbal bioactive compounds have recently gained attention for their ability to prevent and treat conditions related to obesity, no ideal pharmacological treatment has been found to treat obesity. Curcumin, one of the compounds extracted from turmeric, is a well-studied active herbal extract; however, its poor bioavailability and solubility in water, instability against temperature, light and pH fluctuations and rapid excretion limit its therapeutic application. Curcumin modification can, however, provide novel analogues with better performance and fewer disadvantages in comparison to the original structure. In the past few years, the positive effects of synthetic analogues of curcumin for the treatment of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders have been reported. In this review, we evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the reported artificial derivatives and assess their practicality as therapeutic agents.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Stem Cell Therapy in Combination with Naturopathy: Current Progressive
Management of Diabetes and Associated Complications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127964</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder having a global prevalence of nearly doubled over the last 30 years and has become one of the major health concerns worldwide. The number of adults with diabetes increased to 537 million in 2021. <p> Introduction: The overarching goal of diabetic research and treatment has always been to restore insulin independence and an average blood glucose level. Chemotherapeutic antidiabetic agents can manage diabetes but often show toxicity and drug resistance. Natural phytomedicines may be useful along with stem cell therapy for diabetes management. Even if the whole pancreatic organ and islet transplantation, are becoming benchmark techniques for diabetes management and control, a considerable scarcity of eligible donors of pancreatic tissues and organs severely limits their use. Stem cell treatment provides a bunch of possibilities for treating people with diabetes. <p> Methods: For this purpose, comprehensive article searching was conducted, with relevant material obtained using search engines such as Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE, Google, and others, using appropriate keywords. <p> Results: Stem cell therapies, including induced pluripotent stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells, are now becoming a popular area of investigation. Recent advancements in stem cell therapy might provide a feasible treatment option. Furthermore, in recent years, some novel bioactive compounds derived from plants have demonstrated antidiabetic action with higher potency than oral hypoglycaemic medications. Recent regenerative medicine and stem cell treatment advancements might subsequently provide a feasible diabetic management option. On the other hand, medicinal herbs have been considered a better choice for the extensive treatment of diabetes. <p> Conclusion: If proper attention is not given to control diabetes by antidiabetic chemotherapeutic agents, natural phytomedicine, and sophisticated treatment like stem cell therapy, then the lifespan of patients will be decreased, and some associated secondary problems will also arise. So, the present review attempts to discuss naturopathy as an alternative resource in combination with stem cell therapy for the progressive management of diabetes and associated disorders.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chlorogenic Acid: A Dietary Phenolic Acid with Promising Pharmacotherapeutic
Potential]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125508</link><description><![CDATA[Phenolic acids are now receiving a great deal of interest as pervasive human dietary constituents that have various therapeutic applications against chronic and age-related diseases. One such phenolic acid that is being utilized in traditional medicine is chlorogenic acid (CGA). It is one of the most readily available phytochemicals that can be isolated from the leaves and fruits of plants, such as coffee beans (<i>Coffea arabica</i> L.), apples (<i>Malus spp.</i>), artichoke (<i>Cynara cardunculus</i> L.), carrots (<i>Daucus carota</i> L.), betel (<i>Piper betle</i> L.), burdock (<i>Arctium spp.</i>), etc. Despite its low oral bioavailability (about 33%), CGA has drawn considerable attention due to its wide range of biological activities and numerous molecular targets. Several studies have reported that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials of CGA mainly account for its broad-spectrum pharmacological attributes. CGA has been implicated in exerting a beneficial role against dysbiosis by encouraging the growth of beneficial GUT microbes. At the biochemical level, its therapeutic action is mediated by free radical scavenging efficacy, modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-&#945;), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1&#946;, and interferon-gamma (IFN-&#947;), upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), and inhibition of the activity of nuclear factor- &#954;&#946; (NF-&#954;&#946;), thus helping in the management of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, hypertension etc. This review highlights the natural sources of CGA, its bioavailability, metabolism, pharmacotherapeutic potential, and underlying mechanisms of action for the clinical usefulness of CGA in the management of health disorders.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Resveratrol Attenuates Hydrogen Peroxide-induced Injury of Rat Ovarian
Granulosa-lutein Cells by Resisting Oxidative Stress <i>via</i> the SIRT1/Nrf2/ARE
Signaling Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130677</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: This paper aims to reveal the molecular mechanism of resveratrol against oxidative stress and cell injury. The ovarian granulosa-lutein cell injury and apoptosis induced by oxidative stress may be responsible for female luteal phase deficiency. The antioxidant function of resveratrol has been confirmed; however, its effect on the expression of antioxidant enzymes and regulatory mechanisms in ovarian granulosa-lutein cells remains unclear. </p><p> Objective: This study aimed to investigate the role of the SIRT1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway in the effect of resveratrol on the hydrogen peroxide-induced injury of rat ovarian granulosa-lutein cells. </p><p> Methods: In this study, ovarian granulosa-lutein cells extracted from 3-week female SD rats were treated with 200 μM H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> in the presence or absence of 20 μM resveratrol. siRNA-SIRT1 and siRNA-Nrf2 were used to inhibit the expression of SIRT1 and Nrf2, respectively. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8), cellular morphology, progesterone secretion, and estradiol were used to evaluate cell injury. Hoechst 33258 staining was used to measure cell apoptosis. DHE staining, DCFH-DA staining, malondialdehyde content, protein carbonyl content, total antioxidant capacity and SOD viability were used to estimate the levels of oxidative stress. Western blot analysis was used to detect the levels of apoptosis-related proteins, and SIRT1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway-related proteins. </p><p> Results: The H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> treatment-induced rat ovarian granulosa-lutein cells injury was shown as decreased cell viability, impaired cellular morphology, and decreased levels of progesterone and estradiol. The H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> treatment also exacerbated cell apoptosis demonstrated as more apoptotic cells stained by Hoechst staining, decreased level of anti-apoptosis protein Bcl-2 and increased level of pro-apoptosis protein Bax. These effects of cell injury and apoptosis induced by H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> can be ameliorated by resveratrol. Resveratrol also alleviated oxidative stress induced by H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>, supported by decreased superoxide anion and cellular total ROS, decreased malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels, and increased total antioxidant capacity and SOD viability. Western blot results demonstrated resveratrol reversed the H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>-induced decrease in levels of antioxidant enzymes containing ARE sequences and activated SIRT1/Nrf2 pathway. Further treatment by siRNA-Nrf2 suggested resveratrol could not activate the expression of antioxidant enzymes under a condition of inhibition of Nrf2. </p><p> Conclusion: This study demonstrates that resveratrol attenuated oxidative stress to protect H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>-induced rat ovarian granulosa-lutein cell injury and apoptosis via SIRT1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Health-promoting Potential of Edible Mushroom Proteins]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128409</link><description><![CDATA[Edible mushrooms have been classified as “next-generation food” due to their high nutritional value coupled with their biological and functional potential. The most extensively studied and reported mushroom macromolecules are polysaccharides. However, macrofungi proteins and peptides are also a representative and significant bioactive group. Several factors such as species, substrate composition and harvest time significantly impact the mushroom protein content, typically ranging between 19 and 35% on a dry weight basis. Proteins work based on their shape and structure. Numerous extraction methods, including chemical and non-conventional, and their implications on protein yield and stability will be discussed. Beyond their biological potential, a great advantage of mushroom proteins is their uniqueness, as they often differ from animal, vegetable, and microbial proteins. According to recently published reports, the most relevant mushroom bioactive proteins and peptides include lectins, fungal immunomodulatory proteins, ubiquitin-like proteins, and proteins possessing enzymatic activity such as ribonucleases laccases, and other enzymes and ergothioneine. These are reported as antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antitumour, antihypercholesterolemic or antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties, which improved proteins and peptides research interest and contributed to the increase of mushroom market value. This review provides an overview of the most relevant biochemical and biological properties of the main protein groups in edible mushrooms, explicitly focusing on their biomedical potential. Although mushrooms are a rich source of various proteins, many of these molecules have yet to be identified and characterised. Accordingly, it is crucial to identify and characterise new macromolecules of macrofungi origin, which opens an opportunity for further investigation to identify new bioactives for food, nutraceutical, or medicinal applications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Free Fatty Acid Receptors (FFARs): Emerging Therapeutic Targets
for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126576</link><description><![CDATA[Free fatty acids (FFAs) present in our dietary fats not only act as vital nutrients but also function as signalling molecules and modulate key biological functions through their active involvement in a multitude of energy metabolism pathways. However, it has been reported that excessive intake of dietary fat contributes to the development of different types of Diabetes mellitus. Free fatty acid receptors are the key regulators of most metabolic disorders. Among them, diabetes mellitus is a severe growing disorder and found in every corner of the world. For various metabolic disorders, particularly type 2 diabetes mellitus, these different free fatty acid receptors are being explored as drug targets. In the present review, various FFAs sensing G-protein coupled receptors (GPR) like GPR40 (FFAR1), GPR43 (FFAR2), GPR41 (FFAR3), GPR120 (FFAR4), and GPR84 are being explored as emerging novel therapeutic targets for antidiabetic drugs. Additionally, this review has covered pre-clinical discovery and development of different selective ligands targeted to these receptors starting from hit identification to lead optimization via chemical modification and the challenges and tactics selected by different medicinal chemists to improve potency, physicochemical properties, safety profiles, and pharmacokinetics of different FFAR agonists for making a potential drug candidate. Several molecules have been withdrawn in the clinical trials without reporting any reasons. We believe that this review will help the researchers to find a new direction in the discovery of new antidiabetic drugs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ancient Wheat as Promising Nutraceuticals for the Prevention of
Chronic and Degenerative Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126340</link><description><![CDATA[In the context of a balanced diet, wheat, mainly used as whole grains, is a good source of nutrients, including fibers and bioactive compounds. Cereals belong to the Poaceae family and are crucial for maintaining a healthy status, granted by their nutritional and chemical properties. Recent studies have demonstrated that the intake of whole grains and grain-based products may reduce the risk of oxidative stress, thus lowering chronic and age-related disorders, such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, type II diabetes and cancer. Indeed, several studies report that regular whole grain consumption is associated with lower levels of total and LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, blood pressure and body mass index. Moreover, ancient wheat species have become increasingly interested in human health, containing several nutraceutical compounds, such as vitamins and minerals. The numerous phytochemicals present in ancient wheat (polyphenols, carotenoids, phytosterols and phenolic compounds) provide, in fact, antioxidant properties, which are essential in the prevention of various chronic and degenerative diseases. This review aims to report information on ancient wheat species, discussing their composition and nutraceutical properties compared with modern varieties and highlighting the beneficial impact on human health.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Aptamer-based Biosensors: Promising Sensing Technology for Diabetes
Diagnosis in Biological Fluids]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125987</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes is a chronic disease state in which the pancreas fails to secrete sufficient insulin, resulting in an elevation of blood glucose levels. As one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide, diabetes is recognized as a global health concern that, if undiagnosed or untreated, can lead to serious and life-threatening complications, such as kidney failure, cardiovascular disease and diabetic retinopathy. Despite progress in the diagnosis of diabetes, limitations still exist with current analytical techniques, and, therefore, the development of precise sensing devices for on-site, real-time detection of diabetes is needed. Biosensors have contributed significantly to the field of diabetes healthcare, due to their cost-effectiveness, portability, ease of use, and rapid assay time. Recently, there has been a preference for the utilization of aptamers over antibodies in designing biosensors. Aptasensors, biosensors made with aptamers, offer potential in the diagnosis of diabetes. Aptamers, due to having lower molecular weight, low price, and stability over a wide temperature range and pH range, their in vitro synthesis, and the ability to refold after being removed from denaturing conditions compared to antibodies, have some distinctive characteristics as well as diverse types, such as optical FNA-based biosensors, colorimetric biosensors, fluorescent biosensors and electrochemical FNA-based biosensors. With this in mind, we highlight the recent developments and novel perspectives in the field of aptasensor design to quantitatively monitor diabetes biomarkers. Finally, some results are highlighted to offer a basis for the future design of aptasensor kits for diabetes diagnosis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of HLA-DPrs3077 and HLA-DQrs3920 Polymorphisms as Risk
Factors for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127524</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic disease caused by the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells. During disease progression, inflammatory insulitis increases the presentation of islet antigens on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules to T lymphocytes. This complex system plays a pivotal role in cellular immunity. Thus, genetic variability in HLA can affect the susceptibility to and clinical outcomes of DM. <p> Aim: This case-control study aimed to assess the role of HLA-DP-rs3077 (A/G) and HLA-DQrs3920 (A/G) polymorphism in T1DM. <p> Subjects and Methods: This study enrolled 400 individuals: 200 patients with T1DM and 200 ageand sex-matched healthy controls. Hemoglobin A1C and random, fasting, and postprandial blood sugar levels were determined for all subjects. Genotypic and allelic distributions of HLA-DPrs3077 (A/G) and HLA-DQrs3920 (A/G) SNPs were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). <p> Results: Frequency of the HLA-DPrs3077A allele was high among the diabetic group (91.3%); however, the difference was non-significant [OR (95% C.I) = 1.422(0.89-2.252), P=0.098]. The frequency of the HLA-DQrs3920 GG genotype was higher in control than the diabetic group (52.5% vs.12%), whereas that of the AA genotype was higher in the person with diabetes than in the control group (34% vs.4%). Individuals carrying the HLA-DQrs3920A allele were 4.5 times more likely to have T1DM than those carrying the G allele [OR (95% C.I) = 4.510 (3.338- 6.094), P<0.001*]. The presence of HLA-DPrs3077A and HLA-DQ rs3920A in the same person increases T1DM risk by 3.6 times that of G allele [OR (95%C.I) = 3.608(2.173-5.991), P<0.001*]. <p> Conclusion: HLA-DPrs3077 and HLA-DQrs3920 SNPs have a role in T1DM as the coexistence of HLA-DPrs3077A and HLA-DQrs3920A alleles increases the risk.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prevention of Oxidative Stress and Diseases by Antioxidant
Supplementation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127939</link><description><![CDATA[Excessive and uncontrolled oxidative stress can damage biomacromolecules, such as lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and DNA, by free radical and oxidant overproduction. In this review, we critically discuss the main properties of free radicals, their implications in oxidative stress, and specific pathological conditions. In clinical medicine, oxidative stress can play a role in several chronic noncommunicable diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular, inflammatory, neurodegenerative diseases, and tumours. Antioxidant supplements can theoretically prevent or stop the progression of diseases, but a careful literature analysis finds that more evidence is needed to dissect the ultimate beneficial effect of antioxidants versus reactive oxygen species in several diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Curcumin Combats against Organophosphate Pesticides Toxicity: A
Review of the Current Evidence and Molecular Pathways]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125554</link><description><![CDATA[Organophosphate compounds are regarded as a class of pesticides that are used in farming. Their extensive use, especially in developing countries, is a serious public health problem. Numerous studies have shown the effects of these toxins on various parts of the human and other vertebrates’ bodies, including the cardiovascular, hepatobiliary, renal, and reproductive systems. Curcumin is a polyphenol compound obtained from the rhizome of the Curcuma longa. Curcumin has been known as a dietary spice, food additive, and traditional medicine since many years ago. In recent decades, the medicinal characteristics, clinical aspects, and biological activity of curcumin have been extensively examined. The most examined positive characteristics of curcumin are its anti- inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities. This review will deal with the pharmacological properties of curcumin as well as an update of currently available studies in terms of curcumin’s uses and function against organophosphate pesticides-induced toxicity on different human organs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Fathoming the Role of mTOR in Diabetes Mellitus and its Complications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126781</link><description><![CDATA[Mechanistic/Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) orchestrates cellular homeostasis by controlling cell growth, proliferation, metabolism, and survival by integrating various growth factors, nutrients and amino acids. Eccentric synchronization of mTOR has been incriminated in various diseases/disorders like cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and diabetes mellitus and its complications. Recent reports also highlight the role of mTOR in diabetes and its associated complications. This review tries to fathom the role of mTOR signaling in diabetes mellitus and its complications- diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and diabetic retinopathy and highlights mTOR as a putative target for the development of novel anti-diabetic drug candidates.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128365</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of mortality globally. Although substantial advances have been made in the diagnosis, management, and risk stratification of CAD, there is still a need for novel diagnostic biomarkers and new therapeutic targets to prevent the epidemic of the disease. Recently, growing evidence has linked dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) to cardiovascular diseases, including CAD. miRNAs are endogenous, stable, single-stranded, short, non-coding RNAs, and may have utility as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for CAD. Dysregulated miRNAs are involved in regulating lipid and glucose homeostasis pathways, reninangiotensin- aldosterone pathways, inflammation, endothelial and vascular smooth cell phenotypes promoting atherosclerotic plaque development, progression, and instability. Additionally, miRNAs are stable and easily accessible in the extracellular space, may reside in microvesicles, and are detectable in serum or plasma, making them attractive biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular disease. Accumulating studies suggest that miRNAs could be useful biomarkers for early discrimination of patients presenting with myocarditis or Takotsubo syndrome from those with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, early prognostication of patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes, and accurate detection of left ventricular remodeling after a chronic or acute ischemic event. Moreover, miRNAs represent potential novel therapeutic targets for CAD or other cardiovascular diseases. This review provides an overview of the effects of the entire spectrum of CAD, its major risk factors, and complications on levels of circulating miRNAs, as well as the limitations and challenges of their potential clinical applications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of miRNAs in Metabolic Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125261</link><description><![CDATA[Metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance are characterized by glucose and lipid metabolism alterations and represent a global health problem. Many studies have established the crucial role of micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) in controlling metabolic processes in various tissues. miRNAs are single- stranded, highly conserved non-coding RNAs containing 20-24 oligonucleotides that are expressed in a tissue-specific manner. miRNAs mainly interact through base pairing with 3' untranslated regions of target gene mRNAs to promote inhibition of their translation. miRNAs regulate the expression of as many as 30% of the human genes and have a role in crucial physiological processes such as human growth and development, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. The number of miRNA molecules with a confirmed role in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases is quickly expanding due to the availability of high-throughput methodologies for their identification. In this review, we present recent findings regarding the role of miRNAs as endocrine signaling molecules involved in the regulation of insulin production and fat metabolism. We discuss the potential of extracellular miRNAs present in biological fluids miRNAs as biomarkers for the prediction of diabetes and MetS. We also give an updated overview of therapeutic interventions based on antisense oligonucleotides and the CRISPR/Cas9 editing platform for manipulating levels of miRNAs involved in metabolic disorders.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Role of SUMO and SUMOylation in the Pathogenesis of
Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125558</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia and associated with multiple organ systems complications. The incidence and prevalence of diabetes are increasing in an epidemic proportion worldwide. In addition to environmental factors, some epigenetic and post-translational modifications have critical roles in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications. Reversible covalent modification such as SUMOylation by SUMO (Small Ubiquitin-like Modifier) has emerged as a new mechanism that affects the dynamic regulation of proteins. In this review, we initially focus on the function of SUMO and SUMOylation. Subsequently, we assess the potential effects of this process in the pathogenesis of type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Seed Oils in Treatment of Skin Aging and Photoaging]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129085</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Seed oils have been exploited for an array of purposes with their addition to dietary, cosmetics, or therapeutic products. The process of skin aging is a natural and complex phenomenon in living beings. Skin aging is classified into two independent processes, i.e., chronological aging and premature aging. Aging is observed as a loss of strength and elasticity of the skin, leading to wrinkles on the skin. It is due to a decrease in various components of the skin matrix, like elastin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid. Furthermore, aging is potentiated by excessive exposure to UV radiation (Photoaging) and can be prevented or reduced by using products that combat photoaging. <p> Objective: Anti-aging and antiwrinkle agents are in demand for maintaining skin tone. Seed oils composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids are traditionally used in cosmetic products as moisturizers and emollients, while palmitic acid and oleic acid are known for their penetration-enhancing effect. With the changing trend for extraction of oils like cold pressed methods, seed oils enriched with polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phytosterols are good antioxidants and antimicrobials and therefore have an ever-growing demand for their usage in the treatment of skin diseases. In this review, an attempt will be made to brief the phytoconstituents present in various seed oils and their utilization against skin ailments. Furthermore, a mechanistic approach towards the benefit of oils in skin barrier repair, antiaging, and photo-aging with the help of extensive well-designed clinical trials carried out in the recent past is elaborated. <p> Methods: A literature search in the Scopus database, Pubmed, and Medline was carried out using the terminology “aging, photoaging, antioxidant, UV-protection, sunscreens, skin barrier repair, and fatty acids, formulations” in the study. Data were retrieved over the last twenty years. <p> Results: The review summarises the mechanistic approach and beneficial application of seed oils for healthy and glowing skin. The oils obtained from olives, sesame, borage, grape seeds, and carrot seeds have multitargeted effects. However, the variation in pharmacological effect may vary based on geographically differing varieties, skin type, and person-to-person variation. The need to standardize the varieties for their phytoactive ingredients and the composition of formulation used for skin care can help utilize the seeds as a potential source of actives against skin diseases. <p> Conclusion: The potential of seed oils can be increased with appropriate analytical tools, validation protocols, and systematic experimental studies at preclinical and clinical trials for their application to skin care products.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Potential Therapeutic Impact of Metformin in Glioblastoma
Multiforme]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125031</link><description><![CDATA[In terms of frequency and aggressiveness, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is undoubtedly the most frequent and fatal primary brain tumor. Despite advances in clinical management, the response to current treatments is dismal, with a 2-year survival rate varying between 6 and 12 percent. Metformin, a derivative of biguanide widely used in treating type 2 diabetes, has been shown to extend the lifespan of patients with various malignancies. There is limited evidence available on the long-term survival of GBM patients who have taken metformin. This research examined the literature to assess the connection between metformin's anticancer properties and GBM development. Clinical findings, together with the preclinical data from animal models and cell lines, are included in the present review. This comprehensive review covers not only the association of hyperactivation of the AMPK pathway with the anticancer activity of metformin but also other mechanisms underpinning its role in apoptosis, cell proliferation, metastasis, as well as its chemo-radio-sensitizing behavior against GBM. Current challenges and future directions for developments and applications of metformin-based therapeutics are also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Biology and Natural History of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122424</link><description><![CDATA[Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a clinical condition characterized by insufficient insulin production due to progressive loss of pancreatic islet β-cells mediated by an autoimmune response. This deregulation of the immune system is caused by the action of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors in varying combinations for each individual. Although the inflammation of the islets with immune cell infiltration, known as insulitis, is an important element in pathogenesis, other factors are necessary for disease initiation. Associations with variants of HLA and other genes related to immune system function, mainly haplotypes HLA-DR3-DQ2 and HLA-DR4-DQ8, are more evident. The influence of polymorphisms and epigenetic modifications, as well as the microbiome, is convincing proof of the existence of a complex interaction between genetic, immune, and environmental factors in the etiology and pathogenesis of this metabolic disorder. Loss of selftolerance to autoimmunity is a critical point in the development of the disease, and regulatory T cells play a key role in this process. Thus, any failure of these cells, either due to an insufficient number or altered expression of cytokines and transcription factors, may be the trigger for the onset of the disease. The protective action of regulatory T cells is controlled by gene expression that is modulated by epigenetic modifications, including the dysregulation of noncoding RNAs. This review takes an updated approach to the natural history of type 1 diabetes, focusing on the factors involved in the etiology and pathogenesis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Copper Complexes as Antitumor Agents: <i>In vitro</i> and <i>In vivo</i> Evidence]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/118872</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Copper is an essential element for most aerobic organisms, with an important function as a structural and catalytic cofactor, and in consequence, it is implicated in several biological actions. <p> The relevant aspects of chemistry and biochemistry and the importance of copper compounds in medicine give us a comprehensive knowledge of the multifaceted applications of copper in physiology and physiopathology. <p> In this review, we present an outline of the chemistry, and the antitumor properties of copper complexes on breast, colon, and lung cancer cells focus on the role of copper in cancer, the relationship between structure-activity, molecular targets, and the study of the mechanism of action involved in its anticancer activity. This overview is expected to contribute to understanding the design, synthesis, and uses of copper complexes as antitumor agents in the most common cancers.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Efficacy of Cannabis and its Constituents in Disease Management:
Insights from Clinical Studies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/123960</link><description><![CDATA[There is a long history of informal use of Cannabis sativa (commonly called cannabis) for many purposes, including treating various ailments worldwide. However, the legalization of cannabis in multiple countries, specifically for medical purposes, has grabbed the researchers' attention to discover the scientific evidence regarding cannabis’s beneficial effects. Among over 500 identified compounds (cannabinoids), Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two major active cannabinoids derived from cannabis. Cannabinoids exert their effects through cannabinoid receptors (CB1R and CB2R). In the recent past, clinical trials have shown the efficacy of cannabis and cannabinoids for various human ailments, such as cancer, neurological disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pain, and metabolic disorders. The commonly used constituents and derivatives of cannabis include CBD, THC, THCV, dronabinol, nabilone, and nabiximol. The cannabis constituents have also been used in combination with other agents, such as megestrol acetate, in some clinical trials. The common routes for the administration of cannabis are oral, sublingual, or topical. Cannabis has also been consumed through smoking, inhalation, or with food and tea. A maximum of 572 patients and a minimum of nine patients have participated in a single clinical trial. Cannabis is legalized in some countries with restrictions, such as Belize, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, The Czech Republic, Jamaica, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, and Uruguay. This article provides a compilation of published studies focusing on clinal trials on the therapeutic effects of cannabis. The adverse effects of cannabis and its constituents are also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of NF-&#954;B in Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125515</link><description><![CDATA[Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a threat to human life and physical health worldwide. Timely reperfusion is very important to limit infarct size and protect ischemic myocardium. Unfortunately, it has also caused severer myocardial damage, which is called “myocardial ischemia/ reperfusion injury (MIRI)”. There is no effective clinical treatment for it. Over the past two decades, biological studies of NF-&#954;B have improved the understanding of MIRI. Nuclear Factor-&#954;B (NF-&#954;B) is a major transcription factor associated with cardiovascular health and disease. It is involved in the release of pro-inflammatory factors and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Recent studies have shown that inhibition of NF-&#954;B plays a protective role in acute hypoxia and reperfusion injury. Here we review the molecular regulation of NF-&#954;B in MIRI, better understanding of NF-&#954;B signaling mechanisms related to inflammation and crosstalk with endogenous small molecules. We hope this review will aid in improving therapeutic approaches to clinical diagnosing. This review provides evidence for the role of NF-&#954;B in MIRI and supports its use as a therapeutic target.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Can We Use mTOR Inhibitors for COVID-19 Therapy?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119140</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Infection by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) provokes acute inflammation due to extensive replication of the virus in the epithelial cells of the upper and lower respiratory system. <p> The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a l signalling protein with critical functions in cell growth, metabolism, and proliferation. It is known for its regulatory functions in protein synthesis and angiogenesis cascades. The structure of mTOR consists of two distinct complexes (mTORC1 and mTORC2) with diverse functions at different levels of the signalling pathway. By activating mRNA translation, the mTORC1 plays a key role in regulating protein synthesis and cellular growth. On the other hand, the functions of mTORC2 are mainly associated with cell proliferation and survival. <p> By using an appropriate inhibitor at the right time, mTOR modulation could provide immunosuppressive opportunities as antirejection regimens in organ transplantation as well as in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and solid tumours. The mTOR also has an important role in the inflammatory process. Inhibitors of mTOR might indeed be promising agents in the treatment of viral infections. They have further been successfully used in patients with severe influenza A/H1N1 pneumonia and acute respiratory failure. The officially accepted mTOR inhibitors that have undergone clinical testing are sirolimus, everolimus, temsirolimus, and tacrolimus. Thus, further studies on mTOR inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 therapy are well merited.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Putative Adverse Effects of Bisphenol A on Autoimmune Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114098</link><description><![CDATA[Bisphenol A (BPA) is a monomer that is widely used in the manufacturing of polycarbonate plastics (including storage plastics and baby bottles) and is considered to be one of the most widely used synthetic compounds in the manufacturing industry. Exposure to BPA mainly occurs after oral ingestion and results from leaks into food and water from plastic containers. According to epidemiological data, exposure is widespread and estimated to occur in 90% of individuals. BPA exhibits pleiotropic and estrogen-like effects; thus, it is considered an endocrine-disrupting chemical. A growing body of evidence highlights the role of BPA in modulating immune responses and signaling pathways, which results in a proinflammatory response by enhancing the differential polarization of immune cells and cytokine production profile to one that is consistent with proinflammation. Indeed, epidemiological studies have uncovered associations between several autoimmune diseases and BPA exposure. Data from animal models provided consistent evidence, which highlighted the role of BPA in the pathogenesis, exacerbation, and perpetuation of various autoimmune phenomena including neuroinflammation in the context of multiple sclerosis, colitis in inflammatory bowel disease, nephritis in systemic lupus erythematosus, and insulitis in type 1 diabetes mellitus. Owing to the widespread use of BPA and its effects on immune system dysregulation, a call for careful assessment of patients’ risks and public health measures are needed to limit exposure and subsequent deleterious effects. The purpose of this study is to explore the autoimmune triggering mechanisms and present the current literature supporting the role of BPA in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MicroRNA-7 Regulates Insulin Signaling Pathway by Targeting IRS1,
IRS2, and RAF1 Genes in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122522</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Small non-coding micro RNAs (miRNAs) are indicated in various metabolic processes and play a critical role in disease pathology, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). <p> Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the altered expression of miRNAs and their target genes in placental tissue (PL), cord blood (CB), and maternal blood (MB) of matched non-glucose tolerant (NGT) and GDM mother. <p> Methods: In a case-control study, micro-RNA was quantified from forty-five serum (MB n = 15, CB n = 15, and PL n = 15) and matched placental tissue using stem-loop RT-qPCR followed by target prediction, network construction and functional and pathways enrichment analysis. Further, target genes were verified in-vitro through transfection and RT-qPCR. <p> Results: Five miRNAs, namely hsa-let 7a-5P, hsa-miR7-5P, hsa-miR9-5P, hsa-miR18a-5P, and hsamiR23a- 3P were significantly over-expressed (p < 0.05) in all three samples namely PL, CB, and MB of GDM patients. However, the sample-wise comparison reveals higher expression of miRNA 7 in MB while lowest in CB than control. Furthermore, a comparison of fold change expression of target genes discloses a lower expression of IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1 in MB while comparatively higher expression of NRAS in MB and CB. In-vitro validation reveals lower expression of IRS1/2 and RAF1 in response to overexpression of miR-7 and vice-versa. Thus it is evident that increased miRNA7 expression causes down-regulation of its target genes IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1 in GDM mother compared to control. Further, target prediction, pathway enrichment, and hormone analysis (significantly higher FSH & LH in MB of GDM compared to NGT) revealed insulin signaling, inflammatory and GnRH signaling as major pathways regulated by miRNA7. <p> Conclusion: Thus, an elevated level of miRNA7 may be associated with the progression of GDM by altering the multiple pathways like insulin, GnRH, and inflammatory signaling pathways via targeting IRS1, IRS2, and RAF1, implicating a new therapeutic target for GDM.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Review on CRISPR-mediated Epigenome Editing: A Future Directive
for Therapeutic Management of Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/120208</link><description><![CDATA[Recent studies have shed light on the role of epigenetic marks in certain diseases like cancer, type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and cardiovascular dysfunction, to name a few. Epigenetic marks like DNA methylation and histone acetylation are randomly altered in the disease state. It has been seen that methylation of DNA and histones can result in down-regulation of gene expression, whereas histone acetylation, ubiquitination, and phosphorylation are linked to enhanced expression of genes. How can we precisely target such epigenetic aberrations to prevent the advent of diseases? The answer lies in the amalgamation of the efficient genome editing technique, CRISPR, with certain effector molecules that can alter the status of epigenetic marks as well as employ certain transcriptional activators or repressors. In this review, we have discussed the rationale of epigenetic editing as a therapeutic strategy and how CRISPR-Cas9 technology coupled with epigenetic effector tags can efficiently edit epigenetic targets. In the later part, we have discussed how certain epigenetic effectors are tagged with dCas9 to elicit epigenetic changes in cancer. Increased interest in exploring the epigenetic background of cancer and non-communicable diseases like type II diabetes mellitus and obesity accompanied with technological breakthroughs has made it possible to perform large-scale epigenome studies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Natural Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Nonalcoholic
Fatty Liver Disease: A Review on Molecular Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119485</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a kind of metabolic stress-induced liver injury closely related to insulin resistance and genetic susceptibility, and there is no specific drug for its clinical treatment currently. In recent years, a large amount of literature has reported that many natural compounds extracted from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can improve NAFLD through various mechanisms. According to the latest reports, some emerging natural compounds have shown great potential to improve NAFLD but are seldom used clinically due to the lacking special research. <p> This paper aims to summarize the molecular mechanisms of the potential natural compounds on improving NAFLD, thus providing a direction and basis for further research on the pathogenesis of NAFLD and the development of effective drugs for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. <p> By searching various online databases, such as Web of Science, SciFinder, PubMed, and CNKI, NAFLD and these natural compounds were used as the keywords for detailed literature retrieval. <p> The pathogenesis of NAFLD and the molecular mechanisms of the potential natural compounds on improving NAFLD have been reviewed. <p> Many natural compounds from traditional Chinese medicine have a good prospect in the treatment of NAFLD, which can serve as a direction for the development of anti-NAFLD drugs in the future.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[H19: A Vital Long Noncoding RNA in the Treatment of Diabetes and Diabetic
Complications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119343</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Increasing academic efforts have been made to explore the correlation of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with human diseases, particularly metabolic diseases like diabetes mellitus. Taking lncRNA H19 as an example, this review intends to reveal the functions and mechanism of lncRNA H19 in diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications. <p> Methods: The research results associated with lncRNA H19 and diabetes mellitus are collected and summarized on PubMed. <p> Conclusion: LncRNA H19 is a potential instructive marker for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Overview on Thioredoxin-Interacting Protein (TXNIP): A Potential
Target for Diabetes Intervention]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121268</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common metabolic disorder characterized by a persistent increment of blood glucose. Type 2 DM is characterized by insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is among the factors that control the production and loss of pancreatic &#946;-cells. <p> Objective: Recent studies have shown that high glucose can significantly up-regulate the expression of the TXNIP. Overexpression of TXNIP in &#946;-cells not only induced apoptosis but also decreased the production of insulin. At the same time, TXNIP deficiency protected the apoptosis of β-cells, leading to increased insulin production. Therefore, finding small molecules that can modulate TXNIP expression and downstream signalling pathways is essential. Thus, the inhibition of TXNIP has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system and other tissues such as the heart and the kidney in DM. Therefore, DM treatment must target small TXNIP activity, inhibit expression, and promote endogenous cell mass and insulin production. <p> Conclusion: This review briefly describes the effect mechanism, regulatory mechanism, and crystal structure of TXNIP. In addition, we highlight how TXNIP signalling networks contribute to diabetes and interact with drugs that inhibit the development often and its complexes. Finally, the current status and prospects of TXNIP targeted therapy are also discussed.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeting mTOR Signaling in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetes Complications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/120089</link><description><![CDATA[The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a pivotal regulator of cell metabolism and growth. In the form of two different multi-protein complexes, mTORC1 and mTORC2, mTOR integrates cellular energy, nutrient and hormonal signals to regulate cellular metabolic homeostasis. In type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), pathological conditions and end-organ complications can be attributed to aberrant mTOR. Substantial evidence suggests that two mTOR-mediated signaling schemes, mTORC1-p70S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) and mTORC2-protein kinase B (AKT), play a critical role in insulin sensitivity and that their dysfunction contributes to the development of T2DM. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of mTOR signaling in T2DM and its associated complications, as well as the potential use of mTOR inhibitors in the treatment of T2DM.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Eugenol Elicits Prolongevity by Increasing Resistance to Oxidative Stress
in <i>C. elegans</i>]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/118392</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aims: To analyze the efficacy of eugenol on longevity by assessing its antioxidant effect using Caenorhabditis elegans as an animal model. <p> Background: Eugenol is a major polyphenolic component of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) which attributes wide pharmacological activities and can serve as a biomarker. However, the possible effect of eugenol on longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans has not been reported. <p> Objective: The objective of this investigation was to provide the first scientific based results about the effect of eugenol on longevity, slowing down of paralysis in Alzheimer’s model and the mechanism behind it in Caenorhabditis elegans animal model system. <p> Methods: The phenolic components of methanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum were analyzed by RP-HPLC. Worms were exposed to different concentrations of extract and one of its components - eugenol. Lifespan, health span, survival in CL4176 Alzheimer’s model and molecular mechanism were analyzed. <p> Results: Extract of Ocimum sanctum and eugenol increased lifespan and provided indemnity against pro-oxidants. It also significantly improved healthy ageing and slowed the progression of neurodegeneration in CL4176 Alzheimer’s model of the worm by increasing survival against prooxidants and slowing down the paralysis. Longevity effect was independent of the DAF-16 as observed by using DAF-16::GFP and daf-16 null mutant strains. These results implicate eugenol as a potent therapeutic compound that may curtail ageing and age related disorders like- Alzheimer’s disease. <p> Conclusion: The present work demonstrated eugenol as a potential anti-ageing compound that may curtail ageing, improve heath span by enhancing resistance to oxidative stress and exerts its effect independent of DAF-16 pathway. So, it can be assumed that eugenol can be beneficial to humans as well, albeit further research is necessary before declaring it for human consumption.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors [VEGFR] as Target in
Breast Cancer Treatment: Current Status in Preclinical and Clinical
Studies and Future Directions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121455</link><description><![CDATA[Breast cancer [BC] is one of the most common cancers among women, one of the leading causes of a considerable number of cancer-related death globally. Among all procedures leading to the formation of breast tumors, angiogenesis has an important role in cancer progression and outcomes. Therefore, various anti-angiogenic strategies have been developed so far to enhance treatment's efficacy in different types of BC. Vascular endothelial growth factors [VEGFs] and their receptors are regarded as the most well-known regulators of neovascularization. VEGF binding to vascular endothelial growth factor receptors [VEGFRs] provides cell proliferation and vascular tissue formation by the subsequent tyrosine kinase pathway. VEGF/VEGFR axis displays an attractive target for anti-angiogenesis and anti-cancer drug design. This review aims to describe the existing literature regarding VEGFR inhibitors, focusing on BC treatment reported in the last two decades.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Electrochemical Cell-based Biosensors for Biomedical Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121370</link><description><![CDATA[Electrochemical cell-based biosensors have attracted increasing interest within the last 15 years, with a large number of reports generally dealing with the sensors’ sensitivity, selectivity, stability, signal-to-noise ratio, spatiotemporal resolution, <i>etc</i>. However, only a few of them are now available as commercial products. In this review, technological advances, current challenges, and opportunities of electrochemical cell-based biosensors are presented. The article encompasses emerging studies on cell-based biological field-effect devices, cell-based impedimetric sensors, and cell-based microelectrode arrays, mainly focusing on the last five years (from 2016 to mid-2021). In addition, special attention lies in recent progress at the single-cellular level, including intracellular monitoring with high spatiotemporal resolution as well as integration into microfluidics for lab-ona- chip applications. Moreover, a comprehensive discussion on challenges and future perspectives will address the future potential of electrochemical cell-based biosensors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Flavonoids in Inhibiting IL-6 and Inflammatory Arthritis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/120039</link><description><![CDATA[Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the synovial joints. RA has well-known clinical manifestations and can cause progressive disability and premature death along with socioeconomic burdens. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been implicated in the pathology of RA where it can stimulate pannus formation, osteoclastogenesis, and oxidative stress. Flavonoids are plant metabolites with beneficial pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, <i>etc</i>. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds found in a variety of plants, vegetables, and fruits. Many flavonoids have demonstrated anti-arthritic activity mediated mainly through the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This review thoroughly discusses the accumulated data on the role of flavonoids on IL-6 in RA.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Gut Microbiota and Cardiovascular Disease: Symbiosis Versus
Dysbiosis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119371</link><description><![CDATA[The gut microbiome interacts with host physiology through various mechanisms, including the cardiovascular (CV) system. A healthy microbiome has the ability to process and digest complex carbohydrates into short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). These SCFA function as signaling molecules, immune-modulating molecules, and energy sources. However, when the microbiome is altered, it produces gut dysbiosis with overgrowth of certain bacteria that may lead to overproduction of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) from the metabolism of phosphatidylcholine, choline, and carnitine; dysbiosis also leads to increased intestinal permeability allowing the microbiome-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial endotoxin, to enter the blood circulation, triggering inflammatory responses. An altered gastrointestinal (GI) tract environment and microbiome- derived metabolites are associated with CV events. Disrupted content and function of the microbiome leading to elevated TMAO and LPS levels, altered bile acid metabolism pathways, and SCFA production are associated with an increased risk of CV diseases (CVD), including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, thrombosis, arrhythmias, and stroke. Therapeutic interventions that may favorably influence a dysbiotic GI tract profile and promote a healthy microbiome may benefit the CV system and lead to a reduction of CVD incidence in certain situations. These issues are herein reviewed with a focus on the spectrum of microbiota-related CVD, the mechanisms involved, and the potential use of microbiome modification as a possible therapeutic intervention.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Polyphenols and Stem Cells for Neuroregeneration in Parkinson’s Disease and
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/118840</link><description><![CDATA[Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are neurological disorders pathologically characterized by chronic degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and motor neurons, respectively. There is still no cure or effective treatment against the disease progression and most of the treatments are symptomatic. The present review offers an overview of the different factors involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Subsequently, we focused on the recent advanced studies of dietary polyphenols and stem cell therapies, which have made it possible to slow down the progression of neurodegeneration. To date, stem cells and different polyphenols have been used for the directional induction of neural stem cells into dopaminergic neurons and motor neurons. We have also discussed their involvement in the modulation of different signal transduction pathways and growth factor levels in various in vivo and in vitro studies. Likewise stem cells, polyphenols also exhibit the potential of neuroprotection by their anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties regulating the growth factors levels and molecular signaling events. Overall this review provides a detailed insight into recent strategies that promise the use of polyphenol with stem cell therapy for the possible treatment of PD and ALS.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Iridoids Analysis by Different Analytical Techniques and its Role as Pharmacologic
Agents: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119848</link><description><![CDATA[Iridoids are monoterpenoids classed with a cyclopentanopyran framework and detected in various plants and certain special animals. In plants, it exists as glycosides, generally bound to glucose. Around six hundred iridoid glycosides are available in fifty-seven families of plants. Iridoids are abundant in dicotyledonous plants belonging to the Diervillaceae, Loganiaceae, Apocynaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Lamiaceae, and Rubiaceae families. Analytical techniques like chromatography, NMR, UPLC, etc., are used for the identification, separation, and estimation of either herbal extracts or formulations of iridoids. Advanced analytical techniques are useful for precise and accurate quantification of active ingredients responsible for therapeutic effects. They can be achieved by a developed and validated robust analytical method. Iridoids have shown diverse pharmacological properties. Some of the important activities are immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cardio-protective effects. The other important activities are antimicrobial, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anticancer, choleretic, antispasmodic, and purgative activities attributed to iridoids. There were not many efforts made in the past to gather and review the literature on various aspects of iridoids. This review article has collected a myriad of literature on old and advanced analytical techniques, including method development and validation of methods for quantitative and qualitative analysis of iridoids. The review also emphasizes the role of iridoids in the prevention of various ailments.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[<i>Uncaria tomentosa</i> (Willd. ex Schult.): Focus on Nutraceutical Aspects]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117667</link><description><![CDATA[Medicinal plants have been globally exploiting as an alternative to chemical drugs in the treatment of several diseases due to low unwanted side effects, environmentally friendly nature, and low production costs. Therefore, it is important to analyze the therapeutic properties of various medicinal plants to understand their potential bioactivity. Uncaria tomentosa is one of these medicinal plants with many health-promoting effects. Although the geographical resources of cat&#039;s claw go back to the remote tropics of the Amazon, industrialized countries use the plant extensively in trade. Various parts of the plants such as flowers, leaves, Stem, hooks, and seeds are mainly used medicinally to treat inflammation, asthma, allergies, skin impurities, microbial infections, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cirrhosis, gastrointestinal disorders, arthritis, heart disease, rheumatism, and fever. The endpoint of this review article is to prospectively scrutinize in vitro and in vivo the therapeutic potential of this plant, especially in terms of its nutritional applications and healthbeneficial effects.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Obesity and Inflammation: Colorectal Cancer Engines]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117701</link><description><![CDATA[The prevalence of obesity continues to increase to the extent that it became a worldwide pandemic. An accumulating body of evidence has associated obesity with the development of different types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, which is a notorious disease with a high mortality rate. At the molecular level, colorectal cancer is a heterogenous disease characterized by a myriad of genetic and epigenetic alterations associated with various forms of genomic instability (detailed in Supplementary Materials). Recently, the microenvironment has emerged as a major factor in carcinogenesis. Our aim is to define the different molecular alterations leading to the development of colorectal cancer in obese patients with a focus on the role of the microenvironment in carcinogenesis. We also highlight all existent molecules in clinical trials that target the activated pathways in obesity-associated colorectal cancer, whether used as single treatments or in combination. Obesity predisposes to colorectal cancer via creating a state of chronic inflammation with dysregulated adipokines, inflammatory mediators, and other factors such as immune cell infiltration. A unifying theme in obesity-mediated colorectal cancer is the activation of the PI3K/AKT, mTOR/MAPK, and STAT3 signaling pathways. Different inhibitory molecules towards these pathways exist, increasing the therapeutic choice of obesity-associated colon cancer. However, obese patients are more likely to suffer from chemotherapy overdosing. Preventing obesity through maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle remains to be the best remedy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anti-Diabetic Effects of Isolated Lipids from Natural Sources through Modulation
of Angiogenesis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117630</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Aberrant angiogenesis plays a fateful role in the development of diabetes and diabetic complications. Lipids, as a diverse group of biomacromolecules, are able to relieve diabetes through the modulation of angiogenesis. <p> Objectives: Owing to the present remarkable anti-diabetic effects with no or few side effects of lipids, the aim of this study was to assess the state-of-the-art research on anti-diabetic effects of lipids via the modulation of angiogenesis. <p> Methods: To study the effects of lipids in diabetes via modulation of angiogenesis, we have searched the electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane. <p> Results: The promising anti-diabetic effects of lipids were reported in several studies. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from fish oil (FO) were reported to significantly induce neovasculogenesis in high glucose (HG)-mediated endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) with neovasculogenesis dysfunction in type 2 diabetic mice. Linoleic acid, mono-epoxy-tocotrienol- α (MeT3&#945;), and ginsenoside Rg1 facilitate wound closure and vessel formation. N-Palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), &#945;-linolenic acid (ALA), omega-3 (&#969;3) lipids from flaxseed (FS) oil, &#969;-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), lipoic acid, taurine, and zeaxanthin (Zx) are effective in diabetic retinopathy via suppression of angiogenesis. Lysophosphatidic acid, alkyl-glycerophosphate, crocin, arjunolic acid, &#945;-lipoic acid, and FS oil are involved in the management of diabetes and its cardiac complications. Furthermore, in two clinical trials, R-(+)-lipoic acid (RLA) in combination with hyperbaric oxygenation therapy (HBOT) for treatment of chronic wound healing in DM patients, as well as supplementation with DHA plus antioxidants along with intravitreal ranibizumab were investigated for its effects on diabetic macular edema. <p> Conclusion: Proof-of-concept studies presented here seem to well shed light on the anti-diabetic effects of lipids via modulation of angiogenesis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recombinant Human Regenerating Gene 4 Attenuates the Severity of
Osteoarthritis by Promoting the Proliferation of Articular Chondrocyte
in an Animal Model]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117619</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a dominant cause of morbidity and disability. As a chronic disease, its etiological risk factors and most therapies at present, are empirical and symptomatic. Regenerating gene 4 (Reg4) is involved in cell growth, survival, regeneration, adhesion, and resistance to apoptosis, which are partially thought to be the pathogenic mechanisms of OA. However, the proper role of Reg4 in OA is still unknown. <p> Methods: In this study, a consecutive administration of rhReg4 was applied to normal Sprague- Dawley rats or rats after OA induction. Histological changes and chondrocyte proliferation in the articular cartilage were measured. <p> Results: We found that RhReg4 promotes chondrocyte proliferation in normal rats, and RhReg4 attenuated the severity of OA in rats by promoting chondrocytes’ proliferation in OA rats. <p> Conclusion: In conclusion, recombinant human regenerating gene 4 (rhReg4) attenuates the severity of osteoarthritis in OA animal models and may be used as a new method for the treatment of osteoarthritis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Glutamate Dehydrogenase as a Promising Target for Hyperinsulinism
Hyperammonemia Syndrome Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117480</link><description><![CDATA[Hyperinsulinism-hyperammonemia syndrome (HHS) is a rare disease characterized by recurrent hypoglycemia and persistent elevation of plasma ammonia, and it can lead to severe epilepsy and permanent brain damage. It has been demonstrated that functional mutations of glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), an enzyme in the mitochondrial matrix, are responsible for the HHS. Thus, GDH has become a promising target for the small molecule therapeutic intervention of HHS. Several medicinal chemistry studies are currently aimed at GDH, however, to date, none of the compounds reported has been entered clinical trials. This perspective summarizes the progress in the discovery and development of GDH inhibitors, including the pathogenesis of HHS, potential binding sites, screening methods, and research models. Future therapeutic perspectives are offered to provide a reference for discovering potent GDH modulators and encourage additional research that will provide more comprehensive guidance for drug development.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring Current Role of Nanotechnology Used in Food Processing Industry
to Control Food Additives and their Biochemical Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119467</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: With the advent of food additives centuries ago, the human race has found ways to improve and maintain the safety of utility, augment the taste, color, texture, nutritional value, and appearance of the food. Since the 19th century, when the science behind food spoilage was discerned, food additives in food preservation have been increasing worldwide and at a fast pace to get along with modern lifestyles. Although food additives are thought to be used to benefit the food market, some of them are found to be associated with several health issues at an alarming rate. Studies are still going on regarding the mechanisms by which food additives affect public health. Therefore, an attempt has been made to find out the remedies by exploiting technologies that may convey new properties of food additives that can only enhance the quality of food without having any systemic side effects. Thus, this review focuses on the applications of nanotechnology in the production of nano-food additives and evaluates its success regarding reduction in the health-related hazards by collaterally maintaining the food nutrient value. <p> Methodology: A thorough literature study was performed using scientific databases, like PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science, for determining the design of the study, and each article was checked for citation and referred to formulate the present review article. <p> Conclusion: Nanotechnology can be applied in the food processing industry to control the unregulated use of food additives and intervene in the biochemical mechanisms at a cellular and physiological level for ensuring the safety of food products. The prospective of nano-additive of chemical origin could be useful to reduce risks of hazards related to human health that are caused majorly due to the invasion of food contaminants (either intentional or non-intentional) into food, though this area still needs scientific validation. Therefore, this review provides comprehensive knowledge on different facets of food contaminants and also serves as a platform of ideas for encountering health risk problems about the design of improved versions of nano-additives.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Insights into the Nutritional Antioxidant Therapy in Prevention
and Treatment of Diabetic Vascular Complications: A Comprehensive
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117245</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes mellitus (DM) and DM-induced vascular complications are significant global healthcare problems, causing a decrease in patient quality of life. The main reason for the disability and mortality of patients is rapidly progressing micro-and macroangiopathies. Currently, free radical oxidation is recognized as one of the main mechanisms in the development of DM and associated complications. Under normal physiological conditions, the level of free radicals and antioxidant defense capabilities is balanced. However, imbalance occurs between the antioxidant defense system and pro-oxidants during chronic hyperglycemia and may invoke the formation of excess free radicals, leading to activation of lipid peroxidation and accumulation of highly toxic products of free radical oxidation. This is accompanied by varying degrees of insulin deficiency and insulin resistance in DM patients. Simultaneously with the activation of free radical generation, a decrease in the activity of antioxidant defense factors (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, vitamins C and E) and an acceleration of diabetic complications are seen. Therefore, we hypothesize that antioxidants may play a positive role in the treatment of DM patients to prevent DM-induced vascular complications. However, this has not been sufficiently studied. In this review, we discuss recent insights into the potential underlying mechanisms of oxidative stress-induced diabetic complications and the implications of antioxidants in mitigation of DM-induced vascular complications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Immunopathology of Type 1 Diabetes and Immunomodulatory Effects of
Stem Cells: A Narrative Review of the Literature]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113947</link><description><![CDATA[Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a complex autoimmune disorder which occurs as a result of an intricate series of pathologic interactions between pancreatic β-cells and a wide range of components of both the innate and the adaptive immune systems. Stem-cell therapy, a recently-emerged potentially therapeutic option for curative treatment of diabetes, is demonstrated to cause significant alternations to both different immune cells such as macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells, T cells, and B cells and non-cellular elements, including serum cytokines and different components of the complement system. Although there exists overwhelming evidence indicating that the documented therapeutic effects of stem cells on patients with T1D are primarily due to their potential for immune regulation rather than pancreatic tissue regeneration, to date, the precise underlying mechanisms remain obscure. On the other hand, immune-mediated rejection of stem cells remains one of the main obstacles to regenerative medicine. Moreover, the consequences of efferocytosis of stem-cells by the recipients’ lung-resident macrophages have recently emerged as a mechanism responsible for some immune-mediated therapeutic effects of stem-cells. This review focuses on the nature of the interactions amongst different compartments of the immune systems which are involved in the pathogenesis of T1D and provides an explanation as to how stem cell- based interventions can influence immune system and maintain the physiologic equilibrium.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Strategies to Improve Insulin Delivery through Oral Route: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/116831</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetes mellitus is found to be among the most suffered and lethal diseases for mankind. Diabetes mellitus type-1 is caused by the demolition of pancreatic islets responsible for the secretion of insulin. Insulin is the peptide hormone (anabolic) that regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Upon the breakdown of the natural process of metabolism, the condition leads to hyperglycemia (increased blood glucose levels). Hyperglycemia demands outsourcing of insulin. The subcutaneous route was found to be the most stable route of insulin administration but faces patient compliance problems. Oral Insulin delivery systems are the patient-centered and innovative novel drug delivery system, eliminating the pain caused by the subcutaneous route of administration. Insulin comes in contact across various barriers in the gastrointestinal tract, which has been discussed in detail in this review. The review describes about the different bioengineered formulations, including microcarriers, nanocarriers, Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SMEDDs), Self-Nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDs), polymeric micelles, cochleates, etc. Surface modification of the carriers is also possible by developing ligand anchored bioconjugates. A study on evaluation has shown that the carrier systems facilitate drug encapsulation without tampering the properties of insulin. Carrier-mediated transport by the use of natural, semi-synthetic, and synthetic polymers have shown efficient results in drug delivery by protecting insulin from harmful environment. This makes the formulation readily acceptable for a variety of populations. The present review focuses on the properties, barriers present in the GI tract, overcome the barriers, strategies to formulate oral insulin formulation by enhancing the stability and bioavailability of insulin.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Veterinary Regenerative Therapy: Basic Physiology
and Clinical Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117026</link><description><![CDATA[Background: The consistent, self-renewal capability and wide-ranged differentiation potential during specific physiologic conditions mark stem cells as a novel candidate not only for biomedical research and regenerative therapy but also as an alternative source in research related to life sciences. This vital and distinct characteristic of stem cells enables them to offer unprecedented hope in treating many diseases and disorders, which are otherwise difficult to treat. Several efforts are still being undertaken to enhance the efficiency of MSCs for better therapeutic applications. <p> Objective: In the recent past, several studies have been conducted regarding the isolation of stem cells from diverse sources and are being used clinically in veterinary regenerative therapy. However, to date, only a few systemic studies are available. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the findings from basic and applied research conducted on stem cell therapeutics with particular emphasis on animals. <p> Result: On the basis of their sources, stem cells can be classified as adult or embryonic stem (ES) cells. Physiologically, the ES cells have the capability to differentiate into all body cells and develop into the normal adult organism, whereas adult stem cells serve as a repair system by restoring damaged tissues of the body. The adult stem cells referred to as Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be derived from various adult body organs, whereas embryos give rise to embryonic stem cells. MSCs possess the unique property of proliferation, trans-differentiation, and secretion of important biomolecules to create a microenvironment, which is immunosuppressive and stimulates native MSCs of damaged tissue. MSCs being immunocompromised cells can be used in autologous as well as in allogenic mode. <p> Conclusion: In veterinary therapeutics, MSCs equipped with engineering and pharmaceutical modifications are offered as potential candidates in the treatment of wound healing, nerve injury, bone/ligament injury, <i>etc</i>., and also bear a great hope for the improvement of udder health and milk production in animals.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Curcumin Reverts the Protein Differential Expression in the Liver of the
Diabetic Obese db/db Mice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113310</link><description><![CDATA[Background: In type 2 diabetic mouse liver, hyperglycemia, and insulin modify gene expression. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and antidiabetic agent that regulates the gene expression of different signaling pathways through various transcription factors. Therefore, we hypothesized that curcumin modifies the protein expression profile in the liver of diabetic db/db mice. <P> Objective: To determine the effects of curcumin on the liver protein profile of diabetic db/db mice. <P> Methods: db/db and Wild Type (WT) male mice were allocated in four groups, and they were fed for eight weeks. Three WT and three diabetic db/db mice received a Standard Diet (SD; WT and db/db groups, respectively); three WT and three diabetic db/db mice received a SD supplemented with 0.75% (w/w) curcumin (WT+C and db/db+C groups, respectively). Liver proteins were separated by 2D electrophoresis. Differential protein expression analysis was performed on Image- Master 2D Platinum software, and selected proteins were identified by MALDI-TOF-MS and subjected to enrichment analysis using STRING and DAVID databases. <P> Results: Thirty-six proteins with differential expression due to diabetic background and curcumin treatment were found; these proteins participate in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. Interestingly, the altered expression of seven proteins was prevented in the liver of the diabetic mice that received curcumin. <P> Conclusion: Among all differentially expressed proteins, curcumin reverted the altered expression of seven proteins. Thus, although it was observed that curcumin did not affect the biochemical parameters, it does modify the expression of some liver proteins in diabetic mice.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Protein Aggregation and Self Assembly in Health and Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114479</link><description><![CDATA[Self-attachment of proteins leading to the formation of highly insoluble protein oligomers and aggregates has become an important focus of research owing to its diverse implications in pathophysiology and diseases. This has become a more frequent phenomenon in most neurological and neurodegenerative diseases as well as in dementia. In recent years such an event of protein aggregation has been linked to other disease conditions, disorders or adverse health conditions. Interestingly, aggregation of protein also plays a role in development, growth or metabolism. Most often, physiological proteins are initially bio-synthesised in native or nascent geometrical forms or conformations, but later they undergo specific folding patterns and thereby acquire a stable configuration that is biologically relevant and active. It is highly important that these proteins remain in their biologically active configuration in order to exert their functional properties. Any alteration or change to this structural configuration can be detrimental to their specific functions and may cause pathological consequences leading to the onset of diseases or disorders. Several factors such as the action of chaperones, binding partners, physiological metal ions, pH level, temperature, ionic strength, interfacial exposure (solid-liquid, liquid-liquid, gas-liquid), mutation and post-translational modification, chemical changes, interaction with small molecules such as lipids, hormones, etc. and solvent environment have been either identified or proposed as important factors in conferring the ultimate status of protein structure and configuration. <P> Among many misfolding protein conformations, self-assembly or aggregation is the most significant. It leads to the formation of highly oligomeric self-aggregates that precipitate and interfere with many biochemical processes with serious pathological consequences. The most common implication of protein aggregation leading to the formation of deposits / plaques of various morphological types is the onset of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases that include Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington, ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), CJD (Creutzfeldt Jakob Dementia), Prion diseases, Amyloidosis and other forms of dementia. However, increasing studies have revealed that protein aggregation may also be associated with other diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, renal, corneal and cardiovascular diseases. Protein aggregation diseases are now considered as part of “Proteinopathy” which refers to conditions where proteins become structurally abnormal or fail to fold into stable normal configurations. In this review, we reflect on various aspects of protein self-aggregation, potential underlying causes, mechanism, role of secondary structures, pathological consequences and possible intervention strategies as reported in published literature.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Phytochemical Content and Potential Health Applications of Pecan [<i>Carya
illinoinensis</i> (Wangenh) K. Koch] Nutshell]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119973</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The pecan nutshell contains phytochemicals with various biological activities that are potentially useful in the prevention or treatment of diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and metabolic imbalances associated with heart diseases. <p> Objective: The aim of this study is to update this topic by means of a literature review and include those studies that contribute to the knowledge of the chemical composition and biological activities of pecan nutshell, particularly those related to the therapeutic potential against some chronic degenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress. <p> Methods: Exhaustive and detailed review of the existing literature was conducted using electronic databases. <p> Conclusion: The pecan nutshell is a promising natural product with pharmaceutical uses in various diseases. However, additional research related to the assessment of efficient extraction methods and characterization, particularly the evaluation of the mechanisms of action in new in vivo models, is necessary to confirm these findings and development of new drugs with therapeutic use.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chemical Composition Analysis and <i>In Vivo</i> Anti-diabetic Activity of
Aqueous Extract of Aerial Part of <i>Pallenis spinosa</i> in Diabetic Rats]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114458</link><description><![CDATA[Background: This work aims to confirm the anti-diabetic activity of <i>Pallenis spinosa</i>, as recommended in traditional medicine, and perform a chemical analysis of the aerial part of <i>Pallenis spinosa</i>. <p> Methods: The isolated compounds have been identified by chemical methods and spectrometric analysis, such as UV, <sup>1</sup>H NMR, and <sup>13</sup>C NMR spectroscopy. With regard to the anti-diabetic activity, a series of experiments have been carried out <i>in vivo</i> on Westar albino rats. Diabetes has been induced in animals by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocine. They have been treated with an aqueous extract from the aerial part of <i>Pallenis spinosa</i> (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg body weight) every day for 21 days. <p> Results: The chemical analysis of the aerial part of <i>Pallenis spinosa</i> led to the isolation of five known flavonoids, including patuletin 7-galactopyranoside, patuletin-3-O-α-L-rharnnopyranosyl (1-6)-β-D-galactopyranoside, tricin 7-glucopyranoside, tricin, and quercetin. The aqueous extract of both doses, 250 mg and 500 mg, has shown significant activity in reducing blood sugar, with 43.38% for the dose of 250 mg/kg and 37.76% for the dose of 500 mg/kg, as well as a significant decrease in the total fatness, triglycerides, and the total cholesterol levels in animals. The treatment was compared to the diabetes control group (p = 0.05). We used glibenclamide as a reference, and it showed similar results. <p> Conclusion: In order to explore and develop new anti-diabetic drugs, more studies are needed on this plant for scrutinizing its mechanism of activity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Diabetic Complications: An Update on Pathobiology and Therapeutic
Strategies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114789</link><description><![CDATA[Despite the advent of novel therapies which manage and control diabetes well, the increased risk of morbidity and mortality in diabetic subjects is associated with the devastating secondary complications it produces. Long-standing diabetes majorly drives cellular and molecular alterations, which eventually damage both small and large blood vessels. The complications are prevalent both in type I and type II diabetic subjects. The microvascular complications include diabetic neuropathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, while the macrovascular complications include diabetic heart disease and stroke. The current therapeutic strategy alleviates the complications to some extent but does not cure or prevent them. Also, the recent clinical trial outcomes in this field are disappointing. Success in the drug discovery of diabetic complications may be achieved by a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and by recognising the crucial factors contributing to the development and progression of the disease. In this review, we discuss the well-studied cellular mechanisms leading to the development and progression of diabetic complications. In addition, we also highlight the various therapeutic paradigms currently in clinical practice.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Therapeutic Potential of Galectin-1 and Galectin-3 in Autoimmune Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/118204</link><description><![CDATA[Galectins are a highly conserved protein family that binds to β-galactosides. Different members of this family play a variety of biological functions in physiological and pathological processes such as angiogenesis, regulation of immune cell activity, and cell adhesion. Galectins are widely distributed and play a vital role both inside and outside cells. They can regulate homeostasis and immune function in vivo through mechanisms such as apoptosis. Recent studies have indicated that galectins exhibit pleiotropic roles in inflammation. Furthermore, emerging studies have found that galectins are involved in the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), type 1 diabetes (T1D), and systemic sclerosis (SSc) by regulating cell adhesion, apoptosis, and other mechanisms. This review will briefly discuss the biological characteristics of the two most widely expressed and extensively explored members of the galectin family, galectin-1 and galectin-3, as well as their pathogenetic and therapeutic roles in autoimmune diseases. This information may provide a novel and promising therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[High Throughput Study for Molecular Mechanism of Metformin
Pre-Diabetic Protection <i>via</i> Microarray Approach]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113172</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Metformin is a biguanide that exhibits antidiabetic, anticarcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite well-known pancreatic protective effects, metformin's influence on pancreatic islet β-cell is yet considerably unknown. Protecting the functional insulin-producing β-cells in the pancreas is a key therapeutic challenge in patients with type 1 (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). <p> Objective: The current study aimed to analyze the protective effects of metformin on streptozocin- induced diabetic rats in T1DM in hepatic tissues. <p> Methods: In the present study, male Wistar rats (n=24) were randomly assigned into 2 groups (n=12 for each control and test), and metformin (100 mg/kg/day) was given for 7 weeks. Afterward, diabetes was induced by streptozocin (STZ) at a single dose of 150 mg/kg. Blood glucose was examined daily before and after STZ induction. The animals were euthanized by cervical dislocation 5 days after streptozocin injection, after which liver and pancreas were harvested from each rat. <p> Results: The biochemical analyses revealed that metformin resulted in significantly reduced plasma glucose levels and higher pancreatic insulin levels in the test group. Using a restrictive cut-off of at least 2-FC and an adjusted p-value (q-value) of ≤0.05, a sum of 747 genes for the metformin group were shown to be differentially regulated compared to controls (320 Down and 427 Up), by which they were obtained from the liver. Furthermore, the evidence is attained that metformin may hinder the loss of critical β-cells by reducing inflammatory and apoptosis signaling, promoting fatty acid β-oxidation, and inducing metabolism. <p> Conclusion: Collectively, this study has demonstrated a decrease in blood glucose levels and a rise in insulin-levels and thus consequent prophylactic effects in metformin-given STZ-induced diabetic rats.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nano-biotechnology and its Innovative Perspective in Diabetes Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/116309</link><description><![CDATA[Abstract: The occurrence of the diabetes happens due to the irregular operation of glucose in the body, which is also known as glucose homeostasis, thus leading to metabolic changes in the body. The two stages whether hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia differentiates diabetes into various categories and brought new innovative management for the new routes of administration of these disease condition. Various bio-nanotechnologies which are coupled with nano particulates, polymers, Liposome, various gold plated and Solid Lipids Particulates regulate the transcellular transport, non specific cellular uptake, and paracellular transport, which leads to oral, transdermal, Pulmonary, buccal, Nasal, specific gene oriented administration to avoid the non patience compliance with the parental routes of administration. Phytochemicals have an emerging strategy for the future prospects of diabetes management.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cytotoxicity, Anti-diabetic, and Hepato-protective Potential of <i>Ajuga
bracteosa</i>-conjugated Silver Nanoparticles in Balb/c Mice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/115416</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Ajuga bracteosa is a traditional herb used against various diseases. <p> Objectives: Current research aimed to investigate the anti-diabetic and hepato-protective effect of green synthesized silver nanoparticles (ABAgNPs) using Ajuga bracteosa aqueous extract (ABaqu). <p> Methods: <i>In vitro</i> anti-diabetic and cytotoxic effects were carried out via α- glucosidase inhibition, brine shrimp lethality, and protein kinase inhibition assays. For <i>in vivo</i> screening of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of both ABAgNPs and ABaqu in alloxan-induced and CCl4-induced Swiss albino mice were used. Liver and kidney functional markers, hematology, and histopathological studies were carried out after 14 days of administration. <p> Results: <i>In vivo</i> antidiabetic and anti-cancerous effects showed valuable anti-hyperglycemic and hepatoprotective potential when mice were treated with ABaqu and ABAgNPs. A significant reduction in the blood glucose level was recorded when ABaqu and ABAgNPs were administrated orally compared to Glibenclamide treated group. Significant reduction in ALT, AST, ALP, urea, uric acid, and creatinine was recorded in ABaqu and ABAgNPs treated diabetic mice. The hepato-protective findings indicated that ALT, ALP, AST were elevated in CCl4-induced mice while declined in both ABAgNPs and ABaqu treated CCl4-induced mice. Histopathological examination revealed that ABAgNPs have hepato-protective activity. <p> Conclusion: It was concluded that ABAgNPs and ABaqu possessed strong anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective phytoconstituents, which could be used in the prevention of diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chronic Diseases and COVID-19: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/111966</link><description><![CDATA[The existence of a causal relationship between the rise of the death rate in COVID-19 infected patients and their sufferance from non-communicable pathophysiological conditions, particularly chronic diseases, was recently evidenced. In fact, in addition to the immunodeficiency generated by chronic disease conditions, COVID-19 also led to affect the immune system. Furthermore, the novel coronavirus attacks the lungs and other vital organs such as heart, kidneys, and brain. All these outcomes are accused of being involved in the increasing vulnerability and comorbidity in COVID-19- infected people with chronic diseases. Pharmacological, dietetic and natural approaches were suggested after deep bibliographic research for presenting preventive recommendations for this category of patients in order to avoid the fatal complications of this infection, and consequently limiting the risk of comorbidity. In this regard, some medications could enter into interaction with COVID-19 infection in patients with diabetes or hypertension and thereafter lead to fatal complications. Furthermore, regarding their nutritional values, some foods are more useful than others during this pandemic period because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and perhaps some bioactive phytochemicals, which are known to be effective in improving immune response, managing chronic diseases and/or having antiviral activities. In addition, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, prebiotics and probiotics could be helpful in these conditions. Interestingly, in order to understand the mechanism of this causality and suggesting efficacious solutions, this review deserves considerable epidemiologic, clinical and experimental investigations.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regulatory Effects of N-3 PUFAs on Pancreatic β-cells and Insulin-sensitive Tissues]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/119079</link><description><![CDATA[The N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have a wide range of health benefits, including antiinflammatory effects, improvements in lipids metabolism and promoting insulin secretion, as well as reduction of cancer risk. Numerous studies support that N-3 PUFAs have the potentials to improve many metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity, which are attributable to N-3 PUFAs mediated enhancement of insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells and improvements in insulin sensitivity and metabolic disorders in peripheral insulin-sensitive tissues such as liver, muscles, and adipose tissue. In this review, we summarized the up-to-date clinical and basic studies on the regulatory effects and molecular mechanisms of N-3 PUFAs mediated benefits on pancreatic β-cells, adipose tissue, liver, and muscles in the context of glucose and/or lipid metabolic disorders. We also discussed the potential factors involved in the inconsistent results from different clinical researches of N-3 PUFAs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[In Vivo Treatment Efficacy of Essential Oil Isolated from Seeds of <i>Momordica charantia</i> in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117824</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: All parts of Momordica charantia L. have potential hypoglycemic properties in reversing the metabolic disorder of diabetes mellitus. However, there exists a need for preparing an effective and safer formulation of active phytochemicals. We have also reviewed and analyzed certain patents on such preparatory methods for Momordica charantia L. formulations. </P><P> Objective: This study aimed to isolate essential oil from the seeds of Momordica charantia L., analyze its phytochemicals, and study their anti-diabetic effects. </P><P> Methods: The essential oil was isolated by the hydrodistillation method and analyzed for phytochemicals by GC-MS. Furthermore, its acute toxicity was tested in rats. Anti-diabetic effects were evaluated in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats with 17.5 and 55 mg/kg b.wt of essential oil by evaluating blood glucose, serum lipid profile, liver glycogen, protein, and other serum markers such as ALT, AST, ALP, urea, and creatinine. The histologic changes in the liver, pancreas, and kidney were evaluated using Haematoxylin and Eosin staining. </P><P> Results: The phytochemicals having hypoglycaemic and insulin induction potency were identified in the GC-MS analysis. A highly significant (p≤0.01; p≤0.001) reduction in blood glucose was observed from 17.5 mg/kg and 55 mg/kg essential oil treatments, respectively. Diabetes-associated metabolic alterations (p≤0.001) observed in diabetic control rats such as lipid profile, enzymes, glycogen, protein, urea, and creatinine were normalized upon treatment with essential oil. Moreover, the histologic changes in vital organs reversed in treated rats. </P><P> Conclusion: The essential oil of Momordica charantia L. seed has promising potency to normalize the metabolic changes of type II diabetes mellitus.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[&#947;-AApeptides as a New Class of Peptidomimetics: Design, Synthesis, and Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/116887</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Peptidomimetics are studied for medicinal application because of their ability to mimic hierarchical structures of peptides and proteins. To break the limitation and expand the peptidomimetics family, a new class of peptidomimetics based on peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) backbone - “&#947;-AApeptides” was developed. Compared with previous peptidomimetics, &#947;-AApeptides possess prominent advantages such as resistance to proteolytic degradation, enhanced chemodiversity, good selectivity and outstanding bioactivity. The synthesis of &#947;-AApeptides is carried out using a ‘‘monomer building block’’ strategy which is facile and efficient. </P><P> &#947;-AApeptides are able to mimic primary and secondary structures of therapeutic peptides, which make them promising candidates for molecular probes and potential drug leads. In the past decade, several interesting structures and applications of &#947;-AApeptides have been developed by different approaches such as structure-based design, combinatorial library screening, and peptides selfassembly and folding. By following the mechanism of host-defense peptides (HDPs), antibiotic &#947;- AApeptides showed broad-spectrum activity. At the same time, &#947;-AApeptides can be used for combinatorial library screening because of their structural stability and their chemodiversity. Anticancer agents, anti-T2DM (Type 2 diabetes mellitus) agents, anti-HIV (human immuno-deficiency virus) agents and anti-Alzheimer’s disease agents were developed by combinatorial screening and rational design. Furthermore, &#947;-AApeptides as biopolymers, nanomaterials, supramolecular structures and self-assembly architectures were studied due to their unique backbone structures. Therefore, &#947;-AApeptides may play an important role in the development of peptidomimetics.</p>]]></description> </item></channel></rss>