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                    <title><![CDATA[Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma]]></title>

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

                    <description>

                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

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                    <generator>EurekaSelect (+http://eurekaselect.com)</generator>

                    <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 02:51:14 +0000</pubDate>

                    <image>

                    <title><![CDATA[Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma]]></title>

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

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

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[Machine Learning Algorithms Identify Target Genes and the Molecular
Mechanism of Matrine against Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133861</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma worldwide. Novel treatment strategies are still needed for this disease. <p> Objective: The present study aimed to systematically explore the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of matrine in the treatment of DLBCL. <p> Methods: Potential matrine targets were collected from multiple platforms. Microarray data and clinical characteristics of DLBCL were downloaded from publicly available database. Differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were applied to identify the hub genes of DLBCL using R software. Then, the shared target genes between matrine and DLBCL were identified as the potential targets of matrine against DLBCL. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm was used to determine the final core target genes, which were further verified by molecular docking simulation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Functional analysis was also performed to elucidate the potential mechanisms. <p> Results: A total of 222 matrine target genes and 1269 DLBCL hub genes were obtained through multiple databases and machine learning algorithms. From the nine shared target genes of matrine and DLBCL, five final core target genes, including <i>CTSL, NR1H2, PDPK1, MDM2, and JAK3</i>, were identified. Molecular docking showed that the binding of matrine to the core genes was stable. ROC curves also suggested close associations between the core genes and DLBCL. Additionally, functional analysis showed that the therapeutic effect of matrine against DLBCL may be related to the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. <p> Conclusion: Matrine may target five genes and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in DLBCL treatment.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances in Nanobiotechnology for the Treatment of
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134580</link><description><![CDATA[Lymphoma is the eighth most common type of cancer worldwide. Currently, lymphoma is mainly classified into two main groups: Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), with NHL accounting for 80% to 90% of the cases. NHL is primarily divided into B, T, and natural killer (NK) cell lymphoma. Nanotechnology is developing rapidly and has made significant contributions to the field of medicine. This review summarizes the advancements of nanobiotechnology in recent years and its applications in the treatment of NHL, especially in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), and follicular lymphoma (FL). The technologies discussed include clinical imaging, targeted drug delivery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and thermodynamic therapy (TDT) for lymphoma. This review aims to provide a better understanding of the use of nanotechnology in the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.]]></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[Coexistence of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Acute Myeloid Leukemia
at Initial Diagnosis: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126634</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Non-Hodgkin&#039;s lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia are both hematological malignancies that rarely coexist at the time of initial diagnosis. We present a case of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia diagnosed on the first admission. <p> Background: Lymphoma and leukemia, both malignant hematological cancers, are primarily different diseases, with a majority of cases originating independently. The co-occurrence of lymphoma and leukemia at the time of the first diagnosis is extremely rare, and few relevant reports exist in the medical literature. We describe a case of a patient with non-Hodgkin&#039;s lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia, a very rare occurrence. <p> Case Report: A 57-year-old man complained of fatigue and neck tumors. A physical examination revealed several enlarged superficial lymph nodes throughout the body. On admission, routine blood tests revealed anemia, thrombocytopenia, and normal counts of white blood cells. Cytology of two cervical lymph nodes indicated non- Hodgkin&#039;s lymphoma, <sup>18</sup>F-PET/CT: multiple enlarged lymph nodes with hypermetabolism, diffuse hypermetabolism of the bone marrow, suggesting lymphoma infiltration in the bone marrow, and a bone marrow biopsy revealed acute myeloid leukemia. Ultimately, the patient was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia. <p> Conclusion: Primary bilineage hematological malignancies are rare, and the mechanism underlying their incidence is unknown. Infiltration of the bone marrow by lymphoma or leukemia can result in diffuse hypermetabolism, mostly diagnosed via bone marrow biopsy.</p>]]></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[The Acetyltransferase KAT5 Inhibitor NU 9056 Promotes Apoptosis and Inhibits JAK2/STAT3 Pathway in Extranodal NK/T Cell Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117752</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is an aggressive malignant non- Hodgkin&#039;s lymphoma (NHL) with a poor prognosis. Therefore, novel therapeutic biomarkers and agents must be identified for the same. KAT5 inhibitor, NU 9056, is a small molecule that can inhibit cellular proliferation; however, its role in ENKTL has not been studied. <P> Objective: The present study investigated the effect of NU 9056 in ENKTL cells and explored the possible molecular mechanism for its antitumour effect. <P> Methods: The role of NU 9056 in ENKTL cells was investigated through the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, Western blot, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay. <P> Results: NU 9056 inhibited ENKTL cell proliferation and induced G2/M phase arrest. NU 9056 also induced apoptosis by upregulating DR4, DR5, and caspase 8 expressions. Additionally, NU 9056 increased the expression of Bax, Bid, and cytochrome C and decreased the expression of Bcl-2, Mcl-1, and XIAP. Furthermore, NU 9056 activated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway was also activated by NU 9056, and the ERK signalling pathway was suppressed in natural killer/T cell lymphoma cells. <P> Conclusion: NU 9056 inhibited cell proliferation, arrested cell cycle in the G2/M phase, and induced apoptosis through the stimulation of ER stress, thus inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway and regulating MAPK pathways in ENKTL cells.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Occurrence and Severity of Adverse Reactions of Immune Checkpoint
Inhibitors (PD-1 and PD L1) Based on Mordovian Dispensary Data
Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/117085</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Recently, a novel therapeutic technique has been revealed to recruit PDL1 and PD1 inhibitors to promote and enhance the cytotoxic T cell activity in combating the tumor. But unfortunately, several followed patients who didn’t tolerate the drug appeared unfavorable autoimmune side effects, such as anemia, pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis, in addition to fatigue/ asthenia, decreased appetite, nausea, cough, dyspnea, constipation. <p> Aim: To assess the severity of the adverse reactions of PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors in treating patients with positive PD-1 or PD-L1; non-small cell lung cancer patients (NSCLCs), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma, classic Hodgkin's lymphoma, gastric cancer, renal cell carcinoma, caecal carcinoma, buccal mucosa carcinoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, laryngopharynx cancer, bladder cancer, cervical cancer, and melanoma. <p> Materials and Methods: The study data was collected and analyzed randomly from the period of January 2019 to November 2020 from the Mordovian oncological dispensary. The data are collected from the electronic archive of the hospital. Then, we followed up with the patients for the same period, and we recorded the presented adverse reactions. The patients received anti-tumor drug; PD-L1/PD-L inhibitors (Atezolizumab; 1200mg, Pembrolizumab; 200mg, and Nivolumab; 240mg or 3 mg/kg) every 21 or 14 days they got IV infusion of PD-1 and/or PD-L1 inhibitors. After the progression and metastasis of the tumor, the patients received a combination of chemotherapy prior to the immunotherapy. <p> Results: The analyzed data have shown 7.14% of the studied patients (n=28) have developed adverse reactions that ranged from mild to moderate severity (anemia and biochemical tests deviation). <p> Conclusion: These clinical findings supported the moderate risk of developing life-threatening adverse reactions after administration of immune checkpoint inhibitors (Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab, Atezolizumab) to patients with advanced-stage tumors. The patients who were treated with PD-1 inhibitors developed less severe adverse reactions than patients who were treated with PD-L1 inhibitors. The adverse reaction severity depends on the period of administration and the type of the treated tumor, which consequently determines the dose of immunotherapy. Also, the aggressiveness of the autoimmune reactions depends on the patient's immune state and its reactivity.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Imaging of Spinal Bone Tumors: Principles and Practice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114609</link><description><![CDATA[Age, location of the tumor, and detailed patient history can narrow the differential diagnosis of spinal bone lesions, including metastasis and primary benign and malignant bone tumors. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are both crucial in evaluating the characteristics of spinal bone tumors. Growth speed and Lodwick margin description can differentiate malignant from benign tumors to a certain degree. Positron emission tomography has a limited ability to differentiate malignant from benign tumors. A biopsy is often required for a definitive diagnosis. To select the optimal treatment for spinal metastasis, neurological status by epidural spinal cord compression grade (axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance image), radiosensitivity of tumor histology, mechanical instability by Spine Instability Neoplastic Score (sagittal and axial computed tomography image), and systemic disease should be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team. This review article summarizes the role of imaging for diagnosis and treatment of spinal bone tumors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Discovery of Structural Prospects of Imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazine Derivatives as BTK Inhibitors Against Cancer: A Computational Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/116977</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) plays an important role in cell development and proliferation. BTK inhibitors are encouraging novel agents against B-cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases. Although BTK inhibitors have been approved by the FDA to lower off-target effects and reduce emerging resistances, it is necessary to develop novel BTK inhibitors with better outcomes and minimum side effects. </P><P> Objective: The present study includes pharmacophore hypothesis, 3D QSAR, virtual screening, docking, ADME analysis, and screening of potential imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazine derivatives as BTK inhibitors. </P><P> Methods: Generation of pharmacophore hypothesis, virtual screening, 3D QSAR, molecular docking, and ADME analysis were conducted. </P><P> Results: The pharmacophore study generated 20 pharmacophore hypotheses as BTK inhibitors. The five-point hypothesis DPRRR_1 was selected, consisting of one hydrogen bond donor, one positive ionic, and three-ring aromatic features. 3D QSAR study of the compounds provided the best model with high Q2 (0.8683), R2 (0.983), and R2CV (0.5338) values. The developed pharmacophore model was further taken for screening of ZINC database ligands for evaluation of docking interaction and physiochemical properties. Potent compounds of the series 15, 27, 8n, and 38 showed good docking scores -8.567, -7.465, -6.922, -6.137, respectively. </P><P> Conclusion: All the pharmacokinetic parameters analyzed, including human oral absorption of active compounds of the series, were found to be within the permissible range. The present geometry and features included in the pharmacophore hypothesis can be used for the development of novel BTK inhibitors as anticancer agents.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Dequalinium-Derived Nanoconstructs: A Promising Vehicle for Mitochondrial Targeting]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113504</link><description><![CDATA[The cell&#039;s power house, mitochondrion, is a vital organelle for drug targeting in the treatment of many diseases due to its fundamental duties and function related to cell proliferation and death. The mitochondrial membrane comprises bilayer artifact and poses extremely negative potential, creating hurdles for therapeutic molecules in reaching mitochondria. To accomplish mitochondrial targeting, the scientific community has explored diverse pharmaceutical formulations like liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), and inorganic NPs. However, the game changing technology was a modification of these carriers by mitochondriotropic moiety, dequalinium chloride (DQA) or delivering the chemotherapeutics by DQAsomes. The DQA represents a distinctive mitochondriotropic delocalized cation that displays their selectivity towards accumulation in mitochondria of carcinoma cells. Attributed to this characteristics, DQAsomes have been formulated using DQA and explored for successful mitochondrial targeting of bioactives. In this review, it is discussed the effectiveness of DQA nanocarriers which efficiently and selectively transmit the cytotoxic drug to the tumor cell. The DQA based nanoformulations have evidently displayed augmented pharmacological and therapeutic outcomes than their counterparts both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, DQAsomes symbolizes an ideal carrier with excellent potential as mitochondrial targeting agent.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cyclotron Production of PET Radiometals in Liquid Targets: Aspects and Prospects]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/109388</link><description><![CDATA[<p>The present review describes the methodological aspects and prospects of the production of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) radiometals in a liquid target using low-medium energy medical cyclotrons. The main objective of this review is to delineate and discuss the critical factors involved in the liquid target production of radiometals, including type of salt solution, solution composition, beam energy, beam current, the effect of irradiation duration (length of irradiation) and challenges posed by in-target chemistry in relation with irradiation parameters. We also summarize the optimal parameters for the production of various radiometals in liquid targets. </p><p> Additionally, we discuss the future prospects of PET radiometals production in the liquid targets for academic research and clinical applications. Significant emphasis has been given to the production of <sup>68</sup>Ga using liquid targets due to the growing demand for <sup>68</sup>Ga labeled PSMA vectors, [<sup>68</sup>Ga]- Ga-DOTATATE, [<sup>68</sup>Ga]Ga-DOTANOC and some upcoming <sup>68</sup>Ga labeled radiopharmaceuticals. Other PET radiometals included in the discussion are <sup>86</sup>Y, <sup>63</sup>Zn and <sup>89</sup>Zr.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Relationship between Augmentation Index and Wall Thickening Fraction during Hypotension in an Animal Model of Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion and Heart Failure]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/115016</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aims: Non-invasive indices to evaluate left ventricular changes during ischemic heart failure are needed to quantify the myocardial impairment and the effectiveness of therapeutic manoeuvres. The aims of this work were to calculate the Wall Thickening Fraction (WTF) and the Augmentation Index (AIx) and to assess the relationship between WTF and AIx using data obtained from an animal model with heart failure followed by a myocardial ischemia stage and a reperfusion stage. </P><P> Methods: Nine Corriedale sheep that had been monitored for 10 minutes during a basal stage underwent 5-minute myocardial ischemia, followed by 60-minute reperfusion. Seven of them were subjected to an induced heart failure through an overdose of halothane, two of which were treated with intra-aortic counterpulsation during the reperfusion stage. The remaining two animals were monitored during their ischemia-reperfusion stage. </P><P> Results: Data obtained in the 5 animals suffering from heart failure followed by myocardial ischemia showed that: a) heart failure induction determined decrease in cardiac output, cardiac index and systolic and diastolic aortic pressure (AoP) with respect to their basal values (p<0.05), b) myocardial ischemia decreased the WTF compared with basal and induced heart failure values (p<0.05), c) during the reperfusion stage accompanied by induced heart failure, WTF increased with respect to values observed during the ischemia induction stage (p<0.05); nevertheless, basal values were not recovered after reperfusion (p<0.05). During this 60-minute stage, systolic and diastolic AoP values were lower (p<0.05) than those at the basal stage. </P><P> Conclusion: AIx and WTF values calculated from synchronically recorded values of aortic pressure and left ventricular wall thickness during the reperfusion stage in all animals (n = 9) showed a negative correlation (p<0.05). Analysed data provided evidence of a negative relationship between a left ventricular index of myocardial function and an arterial index obtained from AoP waves.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[From Nucleic Acids to Drug Discovery: Nucleobases as Emerging Templates for Drug Candidates]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114201</link><description><![CDATA[Nucleobases represent key structural motifs in biologically active molecules, including synthetic and natural products. Molecular modifications made on nucleobases or their isolation from natural sources are being widely investigated for the development of drugs with improved potency for the treatment of different diseases, such as cancer, as well as viral and bacterial infections. This review article focuses on the nucleobase analogue drug developments of the past 20 years (2000-2020). Various pharmacological and medicinal aspects of nucleobases and their analogues are discussed. The current state and limitations are also highlighted.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Adjunctive Value of Diffusion Weighted Imaging in Diagnosis and Follow Up of Uterovaginal Diffuse B-cell Lymphoma: A Case Report and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113450</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Lymphoma of the female gynecologic tract is extremely rare. Typically, lymphoma is managed nonsurgically unlike other non-lymphomatous malignant tumors raising the importance of differentiation between both entities. </P><P> Case Presentation: We describe the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features of a case of uterovaginal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a 50-year-old postmenopausal woman emphasizing Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) as a diagnostic and follow up tool. We reviewed the literature regarding the diagnostic methods for female genital lymphoma. Forty-five cases, including our patient, were reviewed with an age range from 22 to 85 years. Vaginal bleeding was the most common presentation. The diagnosis was established by Papanicolaou smear, cervical biopsy (25/45), endometrial biopsy (6/45), vaginal biopsy (2/45), pelvic mass biopsy (2/45), iliac LN biopsy (1/45) and surgical diagnosis (8/45). Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphomas (DLBCL) constitute the vast majority of the cases (82%). The uterine cervix was involved at diagnosis in the majority of these cases (68%), while the uterine body (42%) and vagina (28%) were less involved. Pelvic lymphadenopathy was found in 15 cases, while extra genital lymphomatous infiltration in 13 cases. Sonographic findings were nonspecific, while CT provided excellent data about extra-genital involvement. Thirteen cases underwent pelvic MRI that displayed superior detection of disease extension and parametric involvement. Diffusion restriction was reported only in one case without quantitative analysis of ADC map. </P><P> Conclusion: MRI shows unique features that differentiate uterovaginal lymphoma from the much more common carcinomas and discriminate post-operative changes from tumor recurrence. It exhibits a marked restricted diffusion pattern with lower ADC values than carcinomas and post-operative changes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Preclinical Studies of PROTACs in Hematological Malignancies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114756</link><description><![CDATA[Incorrectly expressed or mutated proteins associated with hematologic malignancies have been generally targeted by chemotherapy using small-molecule inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies. But the majority of these intracellular proteins are without active sites and antigens. PROTACs, proteolysis targeting chimeras, are bifunctional molecules designed to polyubiquitinate and degrade specific pathological proteins of interest (POIs) by hijacking the activity of E3-ubiquitin ligases for POI polyubiquitination and subsequent degradation by the proteasome. This strategy utilizes the ubiquitin-proteasome system for the degradation of specific proteins in the cell. In many cases, including hematologic malignancies, inducing protein degradation as a therapeutic strategy offers therapeutic benefits over classical enzyme inhibition connected with resistance to inhibitors. Limitations of small-molecule inhibitors are shown. PROTACs can polyubiquitinate and mark for degradation of “undruggable“proteins, e.g. transcription factor STAT3 and scaffold proteins. Today, this technology is used in preclinical studies in various hematologic malignancies, mainly for targeting drug-resistant bromodomain and extraterminal proteins and Bruton tyrosine kinase. Several mechanisms limiting selectivity and safety of PROTAC molecules function are also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[New Framework for the Discovery of PRC2 Inhibitors: Epigenetic Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/114198</link><description><![CDATA[Over the past several years, remarkable progress towards the recognition of new therapeutic targets in tumor cells has led to the discovery and development of newer scaffolds of anti-tumor drugs. The exploration and exploitation of epigenetic regulation in tumor cells are of immense importance to both the pharmaceutical and academic biomedical literatures. Epigenetic mechanisms are indispensable for the normal development and maintenance of tissue-specific gene expression. Disruption of epigenetic processes to eradicate tumor cells is among the most promising intervention for cancer control. Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), a complex that methylates lysine 27 of histone H3 to promote transcriptional silencing, is involved in orchestrating significant pathways in a cell. Overexpression of PRC2 has been found in a number of cancerous malignancies, making it a major target for anti-cancer therapy. Despite its well-understood molecular mechanism, hyperactivation and drug resistance mutations in its subunits have become a matter of discussion. This review outlines the current understanding of the components of PRC2 in active complex formation and assesses their potential as a promising therapeutic target for cancer therapy. We also review the effects of mutations in the PRC2 components, in the purview of human cancers. Finally, we discuss some of the current challenges for therapeutic drug designs targeting the PRC2 complex.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[99mTechnetium- or Cy7-Labeled Fab(Tocilizumab) as Potential Multiple Myeloma Imaging Agents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113020</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a malignant hematologic disorder and the second most common blood cancer. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been identified as a crucial factor for the proliferation and survival of MM cells and the overexpression of IL-6 receptor is being studied as a molecular target for therapeutic and diagnostic use in myelomas and other comorbidities. Tocilizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds IL-6R. </P><P> Objective: We aim to label and evaluate Fab(Tocilizumab) with <sup>99m</sup>Technetium or Cy7 as potential MM imaging agents. </P><P> Methods: IL-6R distribution was analyzed by Laser Confocal Microscopy (LCM) in MM cell lines. Fab(Tocilizumab) was produced by the digestion of Tocilizumab with papain for 24h at 37°C, derivatized with NHS-HYNIC-Tfa and radiolabeled with <sup>99m</sup>Tc. Radiochemical stability and in vitro cell assays were evaluated. Biodistribution and SPECT/CT were performed. Also, Fab(Tocilizumab) was labeled with Cy7 for in vivo fluorescence imaging up to 72h. </P><P> Results: LCM analysis demonstrates IL-6R distribution on MM cell lines. Incubation with papain resulted in complete digestion of Tocilizumab and exhibited a good purity and homogeneity. Radiolabeling with 99mTc via NHS-HYNIC-Tfa was found to be fast, easy, reproducible and stable, revealing high radiochemical purity and without interfering with IL-6R recognition. Biodistribution and SPECT/CT studies showed a quick blood clearance and significant kidney and MM engrafted tumor uptake. Cy7-Fab(Tocilizumab) fluorescent imaging allowed MM1S tumor identification up to 72h p.i. </P><P> Conclusion: These new molecular imaging agents could potentially be used in the clinical setting for staging and follow-up of MM through radioactive whole-body IL-6R expression visualization in vivo. The fluorescent version could be used for tissue sample evaluation and to guide surgical excision, if necessary.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Discovery and Design of Peptides as MMP9 Inhibitors through Structure-Based Molecular Docking for Targeted Mantle Cell Lymphoma Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/110633</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Enhanced expression and activation of metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) are associated with Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) progression, invasion and metastasis. </P><P> Objective: To find a potential peptide inhibitor against MMP9, which, in turn, could inhibit MCL progression. </P><P> Methods: We performed CCK8 assay, western blot, and transwell assays for RNAi activity. Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) software was applied for structural optimization as MMP9 and peptides were docked. We used gelatin zymography and confocal microscopy to confirm that the peptides can inhibit MMP9 activity. We applied CCK8 and transwell assay to evaluate cell proliferation and metastasis, and flow cytometry to evaluate cell cycle progression and apoptosis. </P><P> Results: High MMP9 expression was observed in 49 of 88 samples (55.7%). Patients with high MMP9 expression were more likely to present with high stage (Stage 3-4, P=0.01), bone marrow invasion (P=0.033), and high-level LDH (P=0.000). High MMP9 expression was associated with significantly shorter overall survival (OS, HR=2.378, P=0.012) and progression-free survival (PFS, HR=2.068, P=0.03). Multivariate analysis identified high MMP9 expression (P= 0.027), high-risk mantle cell lymphoma international prognostic index (MIPI, HR=2.327, P=0.023), and no radiation therapy (P=0.035) as adverse prognostic factors. The silencing of MMP9 in Jeko-1 cells by RNAi suppressed cells migration and invasion in vitro (P<0.05). According to the docking results, peptide M3 bound deeply in the binding pocket of MMP9 and had interaction with the active-site Zn<sup>2+</sup> ion in the catalytic domain. M3 was not only compatible with MMP9, but also inhibited its activity. M3 inhibited Jeko-1 cells proliferation, metastasis, and cell cycle progression, and promoted cell apoptosis rate (P<0.05). </P><P> Conclusion: We designed M3 through structure-based molecular docking, which can specifically bind to MMP9 and inhibit the activity of MMP9. M3 could be a potential antagonist in the treatment of MCL with MMP9 overexpression.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Interplay between DNA Methyltransferase 1 and microRNAs During Tumorigenesis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113478</link><description><![CDATA[Cancer is a genetic disease resulting from genomic changes; however, epigenetic alterations act synergistically with these changes during tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Epigenetic variations are gaining more attention as an important regulator in tumor progression, metastasis and therapy resistance. Aberrant DNA methylation at CpG islands is a central event in epigeneticmediated gene silencing of various tumor suppressor genes. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) predominately methylates at CpG islands on hemimethylated DNA substrates in proliferation of cells. DNMT1 has been shown to be overexpressed in various cancer types and exhibits tumor-promoting potential. The major drawbacks to DNMT1-targeted cancer therapy are the adverse effects arising from nucleoside and non-nucleoside based DNMT1 inhibitors. This paper focuses on the regulation of DNMT1 by various microRNAs (miRNAs), which may be assigned as future DNMT1 modulators, and highlights how DNMT1 regulates various miRNAs involved in tumor suppression. Importantly, the role of reciprocal inhibition between DNMT1 and certain miRNAs in tumorigenic potential is approached in this review. Hence, this review seeks to project an efficient and strategic approach using certain miRNAs in conjunction with conventional DNMT1 inhibitors as a novel cancer therapy. It has also been pinpointed to select miRNA candidates associated with DNMT1 regulation that may not only serve as potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, but may also predict the existence of aberrant methylation activity in cancer cells.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Update on Extemporaneous Preparation of Radiopharmaceuticals Using Freeze-Dried Cold Kits]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/112434</link><description><![CDATA[The field of nuclear medicine is rapidly evolving due to the high demand of radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The availability of a vast array of radioisotopes, improvement in radiolabeling strategies, and advancements in detection systems have also contributed to the progress in this field. Radiopharmaceuticals are mainly classified based on their application as diagnostic or therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. These are available either as ready to use preparations or prepared at hospital radiopharmacy either using automated synthesis modules or by using freezedried cold kit formulations. Availability of freeze-dried cold kits for preparation of varied radiopharmaceuticals for targeting various organs and tumors played an essential role in the extensive use of <sup>99m</sup>Tc radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic imaging by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging. Cold kits are especially suitable for the preparation of radiopharmaceuticals labeled with isotopes like <sup>177</sup>Lu with relatively long half-life or radionuclides produced by radioisotope generators. A simplified procedure for the preparation of positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals is also desired to achieve images with higher resolution and sensitivity offered by PET. Robust kit formulations will simplify the preparation of PET radiopharmaceuticals and will contribute to extensive applications of positron emitters such as <sup>68</sup>Ga. Several therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are also being made using cold kits of the ligands. This review provides an update on diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals prepared using cold kits.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[CypA: A Potential Target of Tumor Radiotherapy and/or Chemotherapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/111037</link><description><![CDATA[Cyclophilin A (CypA) is a ubiquitous and highly conserved protein. CypA, the intracellular target protein for the immunosuppressant cyclosporine A (CsA), plays important cellular roles through peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase). Increasing evidence shows that CypA is up-regulated in a variety of human cancers. In addition to being involved in the occurrence and development of multiple tumors, overexpression of CypA has also been shown to be strongly associated with malignant transformation. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the three main treatments for cancer. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are often used as direct or adjuvant treatments for cancer. However, various side effects and resistance to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy bring great challenges to these two forms of treatment. According to recent reports, CypA can improve the chemosensitivity and/or radiosensitivity of cancers, possibly by affecting the expression of drug-resistant related proteins, cell cycle arrest and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. In this review, we focus on the role of CypA in cancer, its impact on cancer chemotherapeutic and radiotherapy sensitivity, and the mechanism of action. It is suggested that CypA may be a novel potential therapeutic target for cancer chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Perspectives in Breast and Ovarian Cancer Chemotherapy by Nanomedicine Approach: Nanoformulations in Clinical Research]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/109287</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Breast and ovarian carcinomas represent major health problems in women worldwide. Chemotherapy constitutes the main treatment strategy, and the use of nanocarriers, a good tool to improve it. Several nanoformulations have already been approved, and others are under clinical trials for the treatment of both types of cancers. </P><P> Objective: This review focuses on the analysis of the nanoformulations that are under clinical research in the treatment of these neoplasms. </P><P> Results: Currently, there are 6 nanoformulations in clinical trials for breast and ovarian carcinomas, most of them in phase II and phase III. In the case of breast cancer treatment, these nanomedicines contain paclitaxel; and, for ovarian cancer, nanoformulations containing paclitaxel or camptothecin analogs are being evaluated. The nanoencapsulation of these antineoplastics facilitates their administration and reduces their systemic toxicity. Nevertheless, the final approval and commercialization of nanoformulations may be limited by other aspects like lack of correlation between the efficacy results evaluated at in vitro and in vivo levels, difficulty in producing large batches of nanoformulations in a reproducible manner and high production costs compared to conventional formulations of antineoplastics. However, these challenges are not insurmountable and the number of approved nanoformulations for cancer therapy is growing. </P><P> Conclusion: Reviewed nanoformulations have shown, in general, excellent results, demonstrating a good safety profile, a higher maximum tolerated dose and a similar or even slightly better antitumor efficacy compared to the administration of free drugs, reinforcing the use of nano-chemotherapy in both breast and ovarian tumors.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comprehensive Overview of Colon Cancer- A Grim Reaper of the 21st Century]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/110906</link><description><![CDATA[A few decades ago, the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) was low and is now the fourth in the list of deadly cancers producing nearly a million deaths annually. A population that is aging along with risk factors such as smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle with little or no physical activity, and non-healthy food habits of developed countries can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The balance in gut microbiota and the metabolites produced during bacterial fermentation within the host plays a significant role in regulating intestinal diseases as well as colorectal cancer development. Recent progress in the understanding of illness resulted in multiple treatment options such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, including targeted therapy and multitherapies. The treatment plan for CRC depends on the location, stage and grade of cancer as well as genomic biomarker tests. Despite all the advancements made in the genetic and molecular aspects of the disease, the knowledge seems inadequate as the drug action as well as the wide variation in drug response did not appear strongly correlated with the individual molecular and genetic characteristics, which suggests the requirement of comprehensive molecular understanding of this complex heterogeneous disease. Furthermore, multitherapies or a broad spectrum approach, which is an amalgamation of the various promising as well as effective therapeutic strategies that can tackle heterogeneity and act on several targets of the disease, need to be validated in clinical studies. The latest treatment options have significantly increased the survival of up to three years in the case of advanced disease. The fact that colorectal cancer is developed from a polypoid precursor, as well as the symptoms of the disease that occur at an advanced stage, underlines how screening programs can help early detection and decrease mortality as well as morbidity from CRC.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Multi-target Drug Designing for BTK, MMP9, Proteasome and TAK1 for the Clinical Treatment of Mantle Cell Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113421</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by the mutation and overexpression of the cyclin D1 protein by the reciprocal chromosomal translocation t(11;14)(q13:q32). </P><P> Aim: The present study aims to identify potential inhibition of MMP9, Proteasome, BTK, and TAK1 and determine the most suitable and effective protein target for the MCL. </P><P> Methodology: Nine known inhibitors for MMP9, 24 for proteasome, 15 for BTK and 14 for TAK1 were screened. SB-3CT (PubChem ID: 9883002), oprozomib (PubChem ID: 25067547), zanubrutinib (PubChem ID: 135565884) and TAK1 inhibitor (PubChem ID: 66760355) were recognized as drugs with high binding capacity with their respective protein receptors. 41, 72, 102 and 3 virtual screened compounds were obtained after the similarity search with compound (PubChem ID:102173753), PubChem compound SCHEMBL15569297 (PubChem ID:72374403), PubChem compound SCHEMBL17075298 (PubChem ID:136970120) and compound CID: 71814473 with best virtual screened compounds. </P><P> Result: MMP9 inhibitors show commendable affinity and good interaction profile of compound holding PubChem ID:102173753 over the most effective established inhibitor SB-3CT. The pharmacophore study of the best virtual screened compound reveals its high efficacy based on various interactions. The virtual screened compound&#039;s better affinity with the target MMP9 protein was deduced using toxicity and integration profile studies. </P><P> Conclusion: Based on the ADMET profile, the compound (PubChem ID: 102173753) could be a potent drug for MCL treatment. Similar to the established SB-3CT, the compound was non-toxic with LD50 values for both the compounds lying in the same range.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Immunological Mechanism and Clinical Application of PAMP Adjuvants]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113836</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The host innate immune system can recognize Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs) through Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs), thereby initiating innate immune responses and subsequent adaptive immune responses. PAMPs can be developed as a vaccine adjuvant for modulating and optimizing antigen-specific immune responses, especially in combating viral infections and tumor therapy. Although several PAMP adjuvants have been successfully developed they are still lacking in general, and many of them are in the preclinical exploration stage. </P><P> Objective: This review summarizes the research progress and development direction of PAMP adjuvants, focusing on their immune mechanisms and clinical applications. </P><P> Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were screened for this information. We highlight the immune mechanisms and clinical applications of PAMP adjuvants. </P><P> Results: Because of the differences in receptor positions, specific immune cells targets, and signaling pathways, the detailed molecular mechanism and pharmacokinetic properties of one agonist cannot be fully generalized to another agonist, and each PAMP should be studied separately. In addition, combination therapy and effective integration of different adjuvants can increase the additional efficacy of innate and adaptive immune responses. </P><P> Conclusion: The mechanisms by which PAMPs exert adjuvant functions are diverse. With continuous discovery in the future, constant adjustments should be made to build new understandings. At present, the goal of therapeutic vaccination is to induce T cells that can specifically recognize and eliminate tumor cells and establish long-term immune memory. Following immune checkpoint modulation therapy, cancer treatment vaccines may be an option worthy of clinical testing.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Immunoconjugates for Cancer Targeting: A Review of Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Antibody-Functionalized Nanoparticles]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/106910</link><description><![CDATA[Targeted therapy has been recently highlighted due to the reduction of side effects and improvement in overall efficacy and survival from different types of cancers. Considering the approval of many monoclonal antibodies in the last twenty years, cancer treatment can be accomplished by the combination of monoclonal antibodies and small molecule chemotherapeutics. Thus, strategies to combine both drugs in a single administration system are relevant in the clinic. In this context, two strategies are possible and will be further discussed in this review: antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and antibody-functionalized nanoparticles. First, it is important to better understand the possible molecular targets for cancer therapy, addressing different antigens that can selectively bind to antibodies. After selecting the best target, ADCs can be prepared by attaching a cytotoxic drug to an antibody able to target a cancer cell antigen. Briefly, an ADC will be formed by a monoclonal antibody (MAb), a cytotoxic molecule (cytotoxin) and a chemical linker. Usually, surface-exposed lysine or the thiol group of cysteine residues are used as anchor sites for linker-drug molecules. Another strategy that should be considered is antibody-functionalized nanoparticles. Basically, liposomes, polymeric and inorganic nanoparticles can be attached to specific antibodies for targeted therapy. Different conjugation strategies can be used, but nanoparticles coupling between maleimide and thiolated antibodies or activation with the addition of ethyl-3-(3-dimethyl aminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC)/ N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) (1:5) and further addition of the antibody are some of the most used strategies. Herein, molecular targets and conjugation strategies will be presented and discussed to better understand the in vitro and in vivo applications presented. Also, the clinical development of ADCs and antibody-conjugated nanoparticles are addressed in the clinical development section. Finally, due to the innovation related to the targeted therapy, it is convenient to analyze the impact on patenting and technology. Information related to the temporal evolution of the number of patents, distribution of patent holders and also the number of patents related to cancer types are presented and discussed. Thus, our aim is to provide an overview of the recent developments in immunoconjugates for cancer targeting and highlight the most important aspects for clinical relevance and innovation.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Therapies of Hematological Malignancies: An Overview of the Potential Targets and Their Inhibitors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/113888</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The term “hematological malignancy” means a cluster of cancer and tumor conditions, including leukemia, lymphoma, myeloproliferative neoplasm, lymphoproliferative disorders, etc., involved with circulatory organs like blood, bone marrow, lymph, and lymph nodes. </P><P> Introduction: The increase in the number of hematological malignancy-related cases in our modern society urges suitable treatment of such disease. In this current era, there is still a major deficiency in the number of suitable chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of hematological malignancies. </P><P> Methods: The researchers were successful in identifying various cellular, extracellular proteins, and cytokines, as well as their involvement in different hematological malignancies via epigenetic modulation and regulation of other proteins and signaling pathways. Here, we have discussed the structural aspects, connection, and pathophysiological contributions of a group of different cellular and extracellular proteins that are regulated and/or have a significant influence on the progression of different hematological malignancies along with their potent inhibitors. </P><P> Result and Conclusion: The correlation of physiological proteins with cancerous hematological conditions has been discussed here. It can be crucial for the development of potent inhibitors as chemotherapeutic agents to contest such malignancies. This review will also be useful in the chemotherapeutic agent development by providing crucial information about such hematological malignancy-related proteins and their inhibitors. The repurposed drugs with potential for anticancer applications are also discussed.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances in the Design and Development of Anticancer Molecules based on PROTAC Technology]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/105177</link><description><![CDATA[PROTAC (Proteolysis Targeting Chimera) degraders based on protein knockdown technology are now suggested as a novel option for the treatment of various diseases. Over the last couple of years, the application of PROTAC technology has spread in a wide range of disorders, and plenty of PROTAC molecules with high potency have been reported. Mostly developing for anticancer therapy, these molecules showed high selectivities to target proteins, the ability to significantly induce degradation of oncoproteins, good in vitro and in vivo results. In this review, we summarized the recent development of PROTAC technology in the anticancer therapy field, including molecular design, types of targeted proteins, in vitro and in vivo results. Additionally, we also discuss the prospects and challenges for the application of candidates based on PROTAC strategy in clinical trials.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Glycyrrhizic Acid Derivatives as New Antiviral and Immune Modulating Agents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/104350</link><description><![CDATA[The search for new drugs to treat viral infections and immune deficiencies of various etiologies is still one of the most important tasks of medicinal chemistry, pharmacy, and medicine due to the widespread prevalence of a number of socially dangerous viral infections. This review focuses on the chemical modification of Glycyrrhizic acid (Gl), the main component of licorice root, which is currently a leading natural glycoside that is considered to be promising for the development of new antiviral agents. The review presents the results of studies conducted over the past 15 years to obtain a library of Gl acid derivatives for biological studies and to search for leader compounds. The synthesis of new biologically active derivatives and analogues (conjugates with amino acids and dipeptides, amino sugars, licorice triterpene acids conjugates with amino sugars, saponins and mono glycosides, and heterocyclic amides) was conducted, and their antiviral and immune modulating properties were studied. Potent inhibitors of HIV, SARS CoV, Epstein-Barr, and influenza A/H1N1 viruses and the stimulators of primary immune response were found among the Gl derivatives and analogues that were produced.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MUC Glycoproteins: Potential Biomarkers and Molecular Targets for Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/111522</link><description><![CDATA[MUC proteins have great significance as prognostic and diagnostic markers as well as a potential target for therapeutic interventions in most cancers of glandular epithelial origin. These are high molecular weight glycosylated proteins located in the epithelial lining of several tissues and ducts. Mucins belong to a heterogeneous group of large O-glycoproteins that can be either secreted or membrane-bound. Glycosylation, a post-translational modification affects the biophysical, functional and biochemical properties and provides structural complexity for these proteins. Aberrant expression and glycosylation of mucins contribute to tumour survival and proliferation in many cancers, which in turn activates numerous signalling pathways such as NF-kB, ER&#945;, HIF, MAPK, p53, c-Src, Wnt and JAK-STAT, etc. This subsequently induces cancer cell growth, proliferation and metastasis. The present review mainly demonstrates the functional aspects of MUC glycoproteins along with its unique signalling mechanism and role of aberrant glycosylation in cancer progression and therapeutics. The importance of MUC proteins and its subtypes in a wide spectrum of cancers including but not limited to breast cancer, colorectal cancer, endometrial and cervical cancer, lung cancer, primary liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer and ovarian cancer has been exemplified with significance in targeting the same. Several patents associated with the MUC proteins in the field of cancer therapy are also emphasized in the current review.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[BK Polyoma Virus Nephropathy in an Immunocompromised Host]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/106809</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Post-transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorders (PTLD) are a well known late complication after solid organ transplantation, including renal transplant. Among others, graft failure due to reactivation of BK polyomavirus in the grafted kidney is also a well-recognized complication but tends to present early in the first several months after transplant. </P><P> Case: Here we present the case of PTLD Burkitt&#039;s Lymphoma (BL-PTLD) in a renal transplant patient who was successfully treated with multiagent chemo-immunotherapy but later developed BK polyomavirus nephropathy (BKVN) with graft failure only after completion of her systemic therapy for lymphoma and 7 years after the transplant. Relevant literature is reviewed. </P><P> Conclusion: In this case, reactivation and progression of BKVN were most likely associated with immunosuppression from chemo-immunotherapy for her BL–PTLD, unlike early graft failures associated with BKVN.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Epigenetic Modifications in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From Cellular Mechanisms to Therapeutics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/111419</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Epigenetic modification pattern is considered as a characteristic feature in blood malignancies. Modifications in the DNA methylation modulators are recurrent in lymphoma and leukemia, so that the distinct methylation pattern defines different types of leukemia. Generally, the role of epigenetics is less understood, and most investigations are focused on genetic abnormalities and cytogenic studies to develop novel treatments for patients with hematologic disorders. Recently, understanding the underlying mechanism of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially epigenetic alterations as a driving force in the development of ALL opens a new era of investigation for developing promising strategy, beyond available conventional therapy. </P><P> Objective: This review will focus on a better understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms in cancer development and progression, with an emphasis on epigenetic alterations in ALL including, DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA alterations. Other topics that will be discussed include the use of epigenetic alterations as a promising therapeutic target in order to develop novel, well-suited approaches against ALL. </P><P> Conclusion: According to the literature review, leukemogenesis of ALL is extensively influenced by epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA hyper-methylation, histone modification, and miRNA alteration.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Monoclonal Antibodies: A Prospective and Retrospective View]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/104666</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs) represent one of the most important classes of biotherapeutic agents. They are used to cure many diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, angiogenesis-related diseases and, more recently also haemophilia. They can be highly varied in terms of format, source, and specificity to improve efficacy and to obtain more targeted applications. This can be achieved by leaving substantially unchanged the basic structural components for paratope clustering. </P><P> Objectives: The objective was to trace the most relevant findings that have deserved prestigious awards over the years, to report the most important clinical applications and to emphasize their latest emerging therapeutic trends. </P><P> Results: We report the most relevant milestones and new technologies adopted for antibody development. Recent efforts in generating new engineered antibody-based formats are briefly reviewed. The most important antibody-based molecules that are (or are going to be) used for pharmacological practice have been collected in useful tables. </P><P> Conclusion: The topics here discussed prove the undisputed role of mAbs as innovative biopharmaceuticals molecules and as vital components of targeted pharmacological therapies.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Is Technical-Grade Chlordane an Obesogen?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/103793</link><description><![CDATA[The prevalence of obesity has tripled in recent decades and is now considered an alarming public health problem. In recent years, a group of endocrine disruptors, known as obesogens, have been directly linked to the obesity epidemic. Its etiology is generally associated with a sedentary lifestyle, a high-fat diet and genetic predisposition, but environmental factors, such as obesogens, have also been reported as contributors for this pathology. In brief, obesogens are exogenous chemical compounds that alter metabolic processes and/or energy balance and appetite, thus predisposing to weight gain. Although this theory is still recent, the number of compounds with suspected obesogenic activity has steadily increased over the years, though many of them remain a matter of debate. Technical-grade chlordane is an organochlorine pesticide widely present in the environment, albeit at low concentrations. Highly lipophilic compounds can be metabolized by humans and animals into more toxic and stable compounds that are stored in fat tissue and consequently pose a danger to the human body, including the physiology of adipose tissue, which plays an important role in weight regulation. In addition, technical-grade chlordane is classified as a persistent organic pollutant, a group of chemicals whose epidemiological studies are associated with metabolic disorders, including obesity. Herein, we discuss the emerging roles of obesogens as threats to public health. We particularly discuss the relevance of chlordane persistence in the environment and how its effects on human and animal health provide evidence for its role as an endocrine disruptor with possible obesogenic activity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeted Protein Degradation: An Emerging Therapeutic Strategy in Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/105757</link><description><![CDATA[Drug discovery in the scope of cancer therapy has been focused on conventional agents that nonselectively induce DNA damage or selectively inhibit the activity of key oncogenic molecules without affecting their protein levels. An emerging therapeutic strategy that garnered attention in recent years is the induction of Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) of cellular targets by hijacking the intracellular proteolysis machinery. This novel approach offers several advantages over conventional inhibitors and introduces a paradigm shift in several pharmacological aspects of drug therapy. While TPD has been found to be the major mode of action of clinically approved anticancer agents such as fulvestrant and thalidomide, recent years have witnessed systematic endeavors to expand the repertoire of proteins amenable to therapeutic ablation by TPD. Such endeavors have led to three major classes of agents that induce protein degradation, including molecular glues, Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) and Hydrophobic Tag (HyT)-based degraders. Here, we briefly highlight agents in these classes and key advances made in the field with a focus on clinical translation in cancer therapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exosomes and Lung Cancer: Roles in Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Therapeutic Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/104217</link><description><![CDATA[Lung cancer is a malignancy with a high morbidity and mortality rate, and affected patients have low survival and poor prognosis. The therapeutic approaches for the treatment of this cancer, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy, are not particularly effective partly due to late diagnosis. Therefore, the search for new diagnostic and prognostic tools is a critical issue. Novel biomarkers, such as exosomes, could be considered as potential diagnostic tools for malignancies, particularly lung cancer. Exosomes are nanovesicles, which are associated with different physiological and pathological conditions. It has been shown that these particles are released from many cells, such as cancer cells, immune cells and to some degree normal cells. Exosomes could alter the behavior of target cells through intercellular transfer of their cargo (e.g. DNA, mRNA, long non-coding RNAs, microRNAs and proteins). Thus, these vehicles may play pivotal roles in various physiological and pathological conditions. The current insights into lung cancer pathogenesis suggest that exosomes are key players in the pathogenesis of this cancer. Hence, these nanovesicles and their cargos could be used as new diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers in the treatment of lung cancer. Besides the diagnostic roles of exosomes, their use as drug delivery systems and as cancer vaccines is under investigation. The present review summarizes the current information on the diagnostic and pathogenic functions of exosomes in lung cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Monoclonal Antibodies Carried in Drug Delivery Nanosystems as a Strategy for Cancer Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/103792</link><description><![CDATA[Monoclonal antibodies carried in nanosystems have been extensively studied and reported as a promising tool for the treatment of various types of cancers. Monoclonal antibodies have great advantages for the treatment of cancer because their protein structure can bind to the target tissue; however, it has some challenges such as denaturation following heat exposure and extreme values of pH, temperature and solvents, the ability to undergo hydrolysis, oxidation and deamination and the formation of non-native aggregates, which compromise drug stability to a large extent. In addition to these characteristics, they suffer rapid elimination when in the blood, which results in a short half-life and the production of neutralizing antibodies, rendering the doses ineffective. These challenges are overcome with encapsulation in nanosystems (liposomes, polymer nanoparticles, cyclodextrins, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, dendrimers and micelles) due to the characteristics of improving solubility, permeability, and selectivity only with tumor tissue; with that, there is a decrease in side effects beyond controlled release, which is critical to improving the therapeutic efficacy of cancer treatment. The article was divided into different types of nanosystems, with a description of their definitions and applications in various types of cancers. Therefore, this review summarizes the use of monoclonal antibodies encapsulated in nanosystems and the description of clinical studies with biosimilars. Biosimilars are defined as products that are similar to monoclonal antibodies which are produced when the patent for the monoclonal antibodies expires.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Monoclonal Antibodies, Bispecific Antibodies and Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Oncohematology]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/110230</link><description><![CDATA[Background: The therapeutic outcomes and the prognosis of patients with various hematologic malignancies are not always ideal with the current standard of care. </p> Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the results of the use of monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates for the therapy of malignant hemopathies. </p> Methods: A mini-review was achieved using the articles published in Web of Science and PubMed between January 2017 and January 2020 and the new patents were made in this field. </p> Results: Naked monoclonal antibodies have improved the therapeutic results obtained with standard of care, but they also have side effects and the use of some of them can lead to the loss of the target antigen through trogocytosis, which explains the resistance that occurs during therapy. The results obtained with naked monoclonal antibodies have been improved by a better monoclonal antibody preparation, the use of bispecific antibodies (against two antigens on the target cell surface or by binding both surface antigen on target cells and T-cell receptor complex, followed by cytotoxic T-lymphocytes activation and subsequent cytolysis of the target cell), the use of monoclonal or bispecific constructs in frontline regimens, combining immunotherapy with chemotherapy, including through the use of antibody-drug conjugates (which provides a targeted release of a chemotherapeutic agent). </p> Conclusion: Immunotherapy and immuno-chemotherapy have improved the outcome of the patients with malignant hemopathies through a targeted, personalized therapy, with reduced systemic toxicity, which in some cases can even induce deep complete remissions, including minimal residual disease negativity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Statins as the Controlling Agents for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas via Increasing the Casein Kinase 2 Interacting Protein-1: A Hypothesis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/99305</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL), derived from B- or T-cell, consist of a heterogeneous group of malignant lymphoproliferative disorders. Knockdown of Casein kinase 2 interacting protein-1 (CKIP-1) in NHL promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis via enhancing phosphorylated Protein Kinase B (PKB or AKT) expression. Statins are the class of drugs that inhibit the ratelimiting step of the mevalonate pathway, which is essential for the biosynthesis of various compounds, including cholesterol. Also, statins have anticancer properties being mediated by different mechanisms. </P><P> Methods: A search on databases like Scopus and PubMed with keywords such as statin and non- Hodgkin's lymphomas was performed and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) website was used to evaluate and reconfirm the involved cellular signaling pathway. </P><P> Results: CKIP-1 is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis while plays an important role in many cancers. We can hypothesize that statins may increase the expression levels of CKIP-1 which could contribute to the reductions in phospho-AKT level. Hence, they may ameliorate the NHL patients via suppressing AKT phosphorylation and increasing CKIP- expression. </P><P> Conclusion: Present review confirms the positive effect of statins on NHL by increasing CKIP-1 and reducing cell proliferation, subsequently.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Protective of Baicalin on Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/107118</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The aim of this study was to explore the inhibitory effect of baicalin on myocardial apoptosis induced by Ischemia-Reperfusion (I/R). </P><P> Methods: Sprague Dawley rats&#039; heart and myocardial cells I/R model were established in vivo and vitro, then 100 mg/kg and 10 μmol/l baicalin were administrated, respectively. The experiment was randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10): Control; I/R; IR+DMEM; and I/R+baicalin groups. Postoperation, the Left Ventricular (LV) End-Diastolic Pressure (LVEDP), the maximum velocity of LV contraction (dP/dtmax) and the maximum velocity of LV diastole (dP/dtmin) were recorded by the transthoracic echocardiography; the myocardial apoptosis percentage was analyzed by Annexin VFITC/ PI and TUNEL staining, and the apoptosis gene and protein were detected by RT-PCR and western blot. Furthermore, the protein expression of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) and ERK1/2 phosphorylation were observed by western blot and Fura-2-acetoxymethyl ester. Moreover, primary rats’ cardiomyocytes were cultured and ERK1/2 specific inhibitor PD98059 was added to the culture medium. The cell survival rate, vitality and apoptosis were detected by MTT, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and TUNEL staining assay Kit, respectively. </P><P> Results: Our present study showed that baicalin significantly improved LV hemodynamic parameters and myocardial apoptosis in myocardial I/R injury rats. Furthermore, we found that baicalin could down-regulate the protein expression of CaSR, but up-regulate the protein expression of ERK1/2. Furthermore, when the cells were pretreated with ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059, the cells survival rate significantly decreased, but LDH activity and apoptosis significantly increased. The results indicated that the effect of baicalin on myocardial I/R injury could be inhibited by ERK1/2 inhibitor. </P><P> Conclusion: In conclusion, our data suggests that baicalin attenuates I/R-induced myocardial injury maybe through the suppression of the CaSR/ERK1/2 signaling pathway.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[HIV-Related Lymphoproliferative Diseases in the Era of Combination Antiretroviral Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/105832</link><description><![CDATA[HIV-positive patients have a 60- to 200-fold increased incidence of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas (NHL) because of their impaired cellular immunity. Some NHL are considered Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) defining conditions. Diffuse large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBC) and Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) are the most commonly observed, whereas Primary Effusion Lymphoma (PEL), Central Nervous System Lymphomas (PCNSL), Plasmablastic Lymphoma (PBL) and classic Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) are far less frequent. Multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) is an aggressive lymphoproliferative disorder highly prevalent in HIV-positive patients and strongly associated with HHV-8 virus infection. In the pre-Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (CART) era, patients with HIV-associated lymphoma had poor outcomes with median survival of 5 to 6 months. By improving the immunological status, CART extended the therapeutic options for HIV positive patients with lymphomas, allowing them to tolerate standard chemotherapies regimen with similar outcomes to those of the general population. The combination of CART and chemotherapy/ immuno-chemotherapy treatment has resulted in a remarkable prolongation of survival among HIVinfected patients with lymphomas. In this short communication, we briefly review the problems linked with the treatment of lymphoproliferative diseases in HIV patients. Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (CART) not only reduces HIV replication and restores the immunological status improving immune function of the HIV-related lymphomas patients but allows patients to deal with standard doses of chemotherapies. The association of CART and chemotherapy allowed to obtain better results in terms of overall survival and complete responses. In the setting of HIVassociated lymphomas, many issues remain open and their treatment is complicated by the patient’s immunocompromised status and the need to treat HIV concurrently.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Co-existence of Follicular Lymphoma in the Lymph Node with High-grade B Cell Lymphoma in the Bone Marrow of a Patient with Spontaneous Tumor Lysis Syndrome]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/104086</link><description><![CDATA[A significant percentage of B-cell lymphomas are characterized by bone marrow involvement (BMI) at diagnosis. In most cases, there is a concordance between the type of lymphoma present in the lymph node and the lymphoma present in the bone marrow. Herein, we presented a sixty-seven years old female patient, who was diagnosed with High-Grade B-cell Lymphoma (HGBL) in the bone marrow, while simultaneously, in the peripheral lymph node, the presence of Follicular Lymphoma (FL) was noted. The patient was presented to the hospital with spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome, a finding compatible with the aggressive course of the HGBL. To our knowledge, this is the first case of the co-existence of HGBL in the bone marrow and FL in a lymph node, which might be attributed to merely a coincidence or to the transformation of the cells in the preferable milieu of the bone marrow.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Advances on the Protective Effects of Ginsenosides on Myocardial Ischemia and Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/107461</link><description><![CDATA[Ginseng is a traditional medicine with a complex chemical composition, wide bioactivity and unique pharmacological action. Many studies have confirmed that ginsenosides are the active ingredients of ginseng, and ginsenosides have always been the focus of different researchers. With the development of modern separation and analysis technology, more than 150 kinds of ginsenosides have been isolated. The ginsenosides Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rg1 and Re account for more than 80% of total ginsenosides, and other saponins, such as Rd, Rg3 and Rh2, which are minor constituents, accounting for only a small portion of the total amount. In recent years, ginsenosides have been found to possess strong pharmacological activities, such as antioxidation, clearing of oxygen free radicals, reducing calcium overload and anti-apoptosis. Ginsenosides play a protective role in ischemia-reperfusion injury. This paper reviews the protective effects of ginsenosides on myocardial ischemia and ischemiareperfusion injury.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Encapsulation of Imatinib in Targeted KIT-5 Nanoparticles for Reducing its Cardiotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/107477</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Using imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor drug used in lymphoblastic leukemia, has always had limitations due to its cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity side effects. The objective of this study is to develop a target-oriented drug carrier to minimize these adverse effects by the controlled release of the drug. </P><P> Methods: KIT-5 nanoparticles were functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane and conjugated to rituximab as the targeting agent for the CD20 positive receptors of the B-cells. Then they were loaded with imatinib and their physical properties were characterized. The cell cytotoxicity of the nanoparticles was studied by MTT assay in Ramos (CD20 positive) and Jurkat cell lines (CD20 negative) and their cellular uptake was shown by fluorescence microscope. Wistar rats received an intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg/kg of the free drug or targeted nanoparticles for 21 days. Then the level of aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured in serum of animals. The cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity of the drug were also studied by hematoxylin and eosin staining of the tissues. </P><P> Results: The targeted nanoparticles of imatinib showed to be more cytotoxic to Ramos cells rather than Jurkat cells. The results of the biochemical analysis displayed a significant reduction in AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH levels in animals treated with targeted nanoparticles, compared to the free drug group. By comparison with the free imatinib, histopathological results represented less cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in the animals, which received the drug through the current designed delivery system. </P><P> Conclusion: The obtained results confirmed that the rituximab targeted KIT-5 nanoparticles are promising in the controlled release of imatinib and could decrease its cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity side effects.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway and Resistance Mechanisms Developed Against the Proteasomal Inhibitors in Cancer Cells]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/106883</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway is crucial for all cellular processes and is, therefore, a critical target for the investigation and development of novel strategies for cancer treatment. In addition, approximately 30% of newly synthesized proteins never attain their final conformations due to translational errors or defects in post-translational modifications; therefore, they are also rapidly eliminated by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. </P><P> Objective: Here, an effort was made to outline the recent findings deciphering the new molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of ubiquitin-proteasome pathway as well as the resistance mechanisms developed against proteasome inhibitors in cell culture experiments and in the clinical trials. </P><P> Results: Since cancer cells have higher proliferation rates and are more prone to translational errors, they require the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway for selective advantage and sustained proliferation. Therefore, drugs targeting the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway are promising agents for the treatment of both hematological and solid cancers. </P><P> Conclusion: A number of proteasome inhibitors are approved and used for the treatment of advanced and relapsed multiple myeloma. Unfortunately, drug resistance mechanisms may develop very fast within days of the start of the proteasome inhibitor-treatment either due to the inherent or acquired resistance mechanisms under selective drug pressure. However, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms leading to the proteasome inhibitor-resistance will eventually help the design and development of novel strategies involving new drugs and/or drug combinations for the treatment of a number of cancers.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Light Alcohol Drinking and the Risk of Cancer Development: A Controversial Relationship]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/107755</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: In accordance with the scientific literature heavy alcohol consumption (>50g per day) represents a risk factor for several diseases development, including cancer. However, the oncogenic role of light alcohol drinking (<12.5g per day) is still unknown. </P><P> Objective: To assess the scientific knowledge about light alcohol consumption and the risk of malignancy onset. </P><P> Methods: To collect the scientific evidences regarding this topic the keywords “light alcohol drinking”, “light alcohol consumption” and “cancer”, were used. Papers published during the last 15 years were analyzed, in order to select the most recent evidence. Meta-analyses with well-defined levels of alcohol intake were included in the present review. Other studies that focused on biochemical, molecular and genetic aspects, as well as duplicate articles, were excluded. </P><P> Results: Twenty-nine large, meta-analyses were included in this review. Light alcohol drinking was not associated with an increased risk of cancer occurrence, with the exception of breast and prostate cancer and melanoma. </P><P> Furthermore, a possible protective role of light alcohol consumption on the development of bladder, kidney and ovarian cancer and Non Hodgkin Lymphoma was observed. </P><P> Conclusion: Light alcohol drinking was not associated with the development of several malignancies, except for a light increase of melanoma, breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nanoparticle-based Drug Delivery Systems for Targeted Epigenetics Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/106637</link><description><![CDATA[This review summarizes the epigenetic mechanisms of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation, histone modifications in cancer and the epigenetic modifications in cancer therapy. Due to their undesired side effects, the use of epigenetic drugs as chemo-drugs in cancer therapies is limited. The drug delivery system opens a door for minimizing these side effects and achieving greater therapeutic benefits. The limitations of current epigenetic therapies in clinical cancer treatment and the advantages of using drug delivery systems for epigenetic agents are also discussed. Combining drug delivery systems with epigenetic therapy is a promising approach to reaching a high therapeutic index and minimizing the side effects.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Treatment as Independent Prognostic Factors in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Egyptian Patients]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/106519</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Egypt is one of the highest hepatitis C virus (HCV) endemic areas. Chronic HCV infection has extra-hepatic manifestations, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is commonly associated with HCV infection. The prognostic value of HCV infection and HCV treatment in patients with DLBCL remains unclear until now. </P><P> Objective: The aim of our study is to evaluate the impact of HCV infection and HCV treatment as independent prognostic factors on the event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) in Egyptian patients with HCV associated DLBCL. </P><P> Methods: This study included 353 patients with DLBCL, collected retrospectively. While 34 patients with HCV who received HCV antiviral therapy were collected prospectively. Patient’s characteristics were collected from the patient records at the time of diagnosis. The status of the patients about HCV infection and HCV treatment were also recorded. Disease progression, relapse, retreatment or deaths were also verified through medical records. EFS and OS were calculated. </P><P> Results: EFS and OS significantly decrease in HCV infected and HCV non-treated patients when compared with HCV non-infected and HCV treated patients, respectively. HCV infection but not HCV treatment was independently associated with EFS and OS using univariate and multivariate analysis. </P><P> Conclusion: Hepatitis C virus infection is an independent prognostic factor for EFS and OS in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. HCV treatment is associated with higher EFS and OS but can not be considered as an independent prognostic factor.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Copanlisib: Novel PI3K Inhibitor for the Treatment of Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/105302</link><description><![CDATA[Lymphoma refers to a specialized category of blood cancers, which is characterized by lymph node enlargement, reduced body weight, prolonged tiredness, and fever associated with sweats. Traditional treatment strategies involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery. Copanlisib has emerged as a very potent drug which acts through inhibiting PI3K enzyme. The FDA has approved it for specific treatment of follicular Lymphoma in September 2017. Copanlisib induces tumor cell death along with the prevention of proliferation of dominant malignant &#946;-cells. Copanlisib has a large volume of distribution i.e., 871L (%CV 47.4), plasma protein binding up to 15.8%, plasma half-life(t1/2) of 39.1h and the mean systemic plasma clearance 18.9 L/h (%CV 51.2). In the present review, various aspects related to Copanlisib have been summarized, which include pathophysiology, synthetic strategy, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and clinical studies. A special emphasis is paid on various reported adverse effects and in silico/in vivo studies conducted on Copanlisib.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma: Current Status and Future Prospects]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/106702</link><description><![CDATA[Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare invasive extranodal non- Hodgkin lymphoma, a vast majority of which is Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Although high-dose methotrexate-based immunochemotherapy achieves a high remission rate, the risk of relapse and related death remains a crucial obstruction to long-term survival. Novel agents for the treatment of lymphatic malignancies have significantly broadened the horizons of therapeutic options for PCNSL. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is one of the most important pathways for Bcell malignancy growth and survival. Novel therapies that target key components of this pathway have shown antitumor effects in many B-cell malignancies, including DLBCL. This review will discuss the aberrant status of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways in PCNSL and the application prospects of inhibitors in hopes of providing alternative clinical therapeutic strategies and improving prognosis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Immune Checkpoint Regulators: A New Era Toward Promising Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/105984</link><description><![CDATA[During the last century, our battle against cancer has been inaugurated upon three main approaches; surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. The latest findings on the effectiveness of immunotherapy in cancer management offer a ray of hope after decades of research and studies on the best treatment methods. Immunotherapy has proven effective in the surveillance and destruction of cancer- causing cells, demonstrating its ability to suppress cancer through controlling the wellestablished immune-editing process. Immuno-editing is a process that comprises three principal elements; elimination, equilibrium, and escape, and is paramount to the comprehension of checkpoint inhibition. Cancer cells employ various approaches to evade the elimination step leading to its immune- escape. The escape mechanism encompasses the up-regulation of negative co-signals that block successful activation of cancer-eradicating immune cells, developing cytokine background that favors the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), or dropping the expression of tumor- specific proteins known as neo-antigens, therefore reducing the immunogenic activity against cancer cells. Today, checkpoint inhibitors are considered as a primary approach in our fight against cancer. Strategies targeting the inhibitory roles of checkpoint inhibitors have been shown effective against different cancer types and stages, and some already gained the FDA’s approval. This review seeks to comprehensively cover the historical background as well as the most recent updates for the role of immune checkpoint regulators in the maintenance of immune homeostatic balance as well as keeping the tumorigenic cells in check.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Modulation of Immuno-biome during Radio-sensitization of Tumors by Glycolytic Inhibitors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/90858</link><description><![CDATA[The Tumor Microenvironment (TME) comprising stromal cells, fibroblasts and various components of the immune system forms a pro-tumorigenic cocoon around the tumor cells with the reprogramming of the metabolism in the form of Warburg phenotype (enhanced aerobic glycolysis) in tumor as well as non-tumor cells. This reprogramming plays a significant role in suppressing the immune response leading to the survival and proliferation of tumor cells and resistance to therapies. Therefore, there is a considerable interest in developing strategies involving metabolic modifiers to improve the therapeutic efficacy that restores immune competence, besides enhancing the direct effects on tumor cells. Inhibitors of glycolysis like 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG; a hexokinase inhibitor), dichloroacetate and small molecule inhibitors of lactate transport (MCT-1) are some of the metabolic modifiers investigated for their therapeutic as well as adjuvant potential. Among these, 2-DG has been widely investigated and established as an ideal adjuvant in the radio- and chemotherapy of tumors. Modulation of the immuno-biome in the form of cytokine shifts, differential transcriptional regulation, abrogation of immunosuppressive network and reduced accumulation of lactate are some of the contributing factors for immune stimulation linked to the radio- and chemosensitization by glycolytic inhibitors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Coexistence of Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Composite Lymphoma [CL] in a Patient Presenting with Waxing and Waning Lymphadenopathy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/101405</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The coexistence of two or more types of lymphoma within the same organ at the same time of diagnosis is defined as composite lymphoma, a rare disease that has recently been identified in the literature. Pointedly, the concurrence may be Hodgkin lymphoma with a Non-Hodgkin lymphoma [NHL], either B or T cells, or two different entities of NHLs. Furthermore, this condition has been described concurrently or sequentially. In order for the diagnosis to be established, two or more distinct clones should be proven by morphological and laboratory tests. </P><P> Case Presentation: Herein, we cite a seventy-three-year old female patient with low-grade fever, waxing and waning cervical lymphadenopathy, whose biopsy of an axillary lymph node demonstrated the rare coexistence of Hodgkin and NHL, known as composite lymphoma. </P><P> Conclusion: Composite lymphomas pose a particular diagnostic challenge, and currently, there are no agreed standards for treatment.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Progress in Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors as Anticancer Agents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/93733</link><description><![CDATA[Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are a relatively new class of anti-cancer agents that play important roles in epigenetic or non-epigenetic regulation, inducing death, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. Recently, their use has been clinically validated in cancer patients resulting in the approval by the FDA of four HDAC inhibitors, vorinostat, romidepsin, belinostat and panobinostat, used for the treatment of cutaneous/peripheral T-cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Many more HDAC inhibitors are at different stages of clinical development for the treatment of hematological malignancies as well as solid tumors. Also, clinical trials of several HDAC inhibitors for use as anti-cancer drugs (alone or in combination with other anti-cancer therapeutics) are ongoing. In the intensifying efforts to discover new, hopefully, more therapeutically efficacious HDAC inhibitors, molecular modelingbased rational drug design has played an important role. In this review, we summarize four major structural classes of HDAC inhibitors (hydroxamic acid derivatives, aminobenzamide, cyclic peptide and short-chain fatty acids) that are in clinical trials and different computer modeling tools available for their structural modifications as a guide to discover additional HDAC inhibitors with greater therapeutic utility.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Preclinical and Clinical Studies on Bryostatins, A Class of Marine-Derived Protein Kinase C Modulators: A Mini-Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/105477</link><description><![CDATA[Bryostatins are complex macrolactones isolated from marine organisms Bryozoan Bugula neritina. They are potent modulators of protein kinase C isozymes (PKCα: ki = 1.3-188 nM), and are one of the most extensively investigated marine natural products in clinical trials. Although ~21 natural bryostatins have been isolated, however only bryostatin-1 (1) has received much interest among medicinal chemists and clinicians. The structure-activity relationship of bryostatins has been well established, with the identification of key pharmacophoric features important for PKC modulation. The low natural abundance and the long synthetic route have prompted medicinal chemists to come-up with simplified analogs. Bryostatin skeleton comprises three pyran rings connected to each other to form a macrocyclic lactone. The simplest analog 27 contains only one pyran, which is also able to modulate the PKCα activity; however, the cyclic framework appears to be essential for the desired level of potency. Another simplified analog 17 (“picolog”) exhibited potent and in-vivo efficacy against lymphoma. Bryostatin-1 (1) has shown an acceptable intravenous pharmacokinetic profile in mice and displayed promising in-vivo efficacy in mice models of various cancers and Alzheimer&#039;s disease. Bryostatin-1 was investigated in numerous Phase I/II oncology clinical trials; it has shown minimal effect as a single agent, however, provided encouraging results in combination with other chemotherapy agents. FDA has granted orphan drug status to bryostatin-1 in combination with paclitaxel for esophageal cancer. Bryostatin-1 has also received orphan drug status for fragile X syndrome. Bryostatin-1 was also investigated in clinical studies for Alzheimer&#039;s disease and HIV infection. In a nutshell, the natural as well as synthetic bryostatins have generated a strong hope to emerge as treatment for cancer along with many other diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Analysis of Four Types of Leukemia Using Gene Ontology Term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Pathway Enrichment Scores]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/95504</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Aim and Objective: Leukemia is the second common blood cancer after lymphoma, and its incidence rate has an increasing trend in recent years. Leukemia can be classified into four types: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). More than forty drugs are applicable to different types of leukemia based on the discrepant pathogenesis. Therefore, the identification of specific drug-targeted biological processes and pathways is helpful to determinate the underlying pathogenesis among such four types of leukemia. </P><P> Methods: In this study, the gene ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways that were highly related to drugs for leukemia were investigated for the first time. The enrichment scores for associated GO terms and KEGG pathways were calculated to evaluate the drugs and leukemia. The feature selection method, minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR), was used to analyze and identify important GO terms and KEGG pathways. </P><P> Results: Twenty Go terms and two KEGG pathways with high scores have all been confirmed to effectively distinguish four types of leukemia. </P><P> Conclusion: This analysis may provide a useful tool for the discrepant pathogenesis and drug design of different types of leukemia.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Clinical Application of Thiopurine Pharmacogenomics in Pediatrics]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/104964</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Thiopurine drugs are used for the treatment of pediatric diseases. Inter-individual differences in the metabolism of these drugs greatly influence the risk of thiopurine induced toxicity and therapy failure. These differences are the consequence of genomic, epigenomic and transcriptomic variability among patients. Pharmacogenomics aims to individualize therapy according to the specific genetic signature of a patient. Treatment protocols based on thiopurine drugs have already been improved by applying pharmacogenomics in pediatric clinical practice. </P><P> Objective: The aim of this review was to summarize the application of thiopurine pharmacogenomics in pediatric patients suffering from acute leukemias, different types of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as in posttransplant care. </P><P> Methods: We searched PubMed/Medline database to identify thiopurine pharmacogenomic markers clinically relevant in pediatric diseases. </P><P> Results: TPMT and NUDT15 pharmacogenomic testing is done in pediatric care, contributing to the reduction of thiopurine induced toxicity. Data on numerous novel potential pharmacogenomic markers relevant for optimization of thiopurine treatment are still controversial (ITPA, ABCC4, NT5C2, PRPS1, GSTM1, FTO gene variants). Majority of evidences regarding thiopurine pharmacogenomics in pediatrics have been acquired by studying acute lymphoblastic leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. For other pediatric diseases, namely acute myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, atopic dermatitis, juvenile autoimmune hepatitis and renal allograft transplantation, data are still scarce. </P><P> Conclusion: Thiopurine pharmacogenomics has shown to be one of the best examples of successful application of pharmacogenomics in pediatrics.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pharmacokinetics and Systems Pharmacology of Anti-CD47 Macrophage Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Hu5F9-G4]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/100334</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Hu5F9-G4, a human immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) monoclonal antibody (mAb) has recently been granted fast-track designation by the FDA for the treatment of relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and follicular lymphoma. Hu5F9-G4 has the ability to block CD47-SIRPα signaling along with anti- EGFR and anti-PD-L1 immune checkpoint activity that is involved in a variety of cancers like solid tumors, Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL), colorectal cancer (CRC), breast, ovarian and bladder cancers, and hematological malignancies. Thus, Hu5F9-G4 is an important biologic that has increasing clinical relevance in cancer care. </P><P> Methods: We queried PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Scopus databases with keywords pertaining to Hu5F9-G4. In addition, we have included the Hu5F9-G4 data presented at the 60th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting and 23rd Congress of the European Hematology Association (EHA). </P><P> Results: We discuss the mechanistic basis and preclinical evidence for the anticancer activity of Hu5F9-G4. Further, we delineate clinical studies, alone and in combination with anti-CD20 mAb rituximab, anti-EGFR mAb cetuximab, PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors avelumab and atezolizumab, and anti-HER2 mAb trastuzumab. Moreover, the potential adverse effects, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of Hu5F9-G4 with emphasis on the role of CD47-SIRP&#945; signaling in phagocytosis are presented. </P><P> Conclusion: Taken together, we review the pharmacokinetics and systems pharmacology of Hu5F9-G4 which appears to hold great promise for the future of cancer care.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anticancer Potential of Dietary Natural Products: A Comprehensive Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/101453</link><description><![CDATA[Nature is a rich source of natural drug-like compounds with minimal side effects. Phytochemicals better known as “Natural Products” are found abundantly in a number of plants. Since time immemorial, spices have been widely used in Indian cuisine as flavoring and coloring agents. Most of these spices and condiments are derived from various biodiversity hotspots in India (which contribute 75% of global spice production) and form the crux of India’s multidiverse and multicultural cuisine. Apart from their aroma, flavor and taste, these spices and condiments are known to possess several medicinal properties also. Most of these spices are mentioned in the Ayurveda, the indigenous system of medicine. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antihypertensive and antidiabetic properties of several of these natural products are well documented in Ayurveda. These phytoconstituemts are known to act as functional immunoboosters, immunomodulators as well as anti-inflammatory agents. As anticancer agents, their mechanistic action involves cancer cell death via induction of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy. The present review provides a comprehensive and collective update on the potential of 66 commonly used spices as well as their bioactive constituents as anticancer agents. The review also provides an in-depth update of all major in vitro, in vivo, clinical and pharmacological studies done on these spices with special emphasis on the potential of these spices and their bioactive constituents as potential functional foods for prevention, treatment and management of cancer.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Signal Pathways and Therapeutic Prospects of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/101005</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma which is heterogeneous both clinically and morphologically. Over the past decades, significant advances have been made in the understanding of the molecular genesis, leading to the identification of multiple pathways and molecules that can be targeted for clinical benefit. </P><P> Objective: The current review aims to present a brief overview of signal pathways of DLBCL, which mainly focus on B-cell antigen Receptor (BCR), Nuclear Factor-&#954;B (NF-&#954;B), Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase (PI3K) – protein kinase B (Akt) – mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), Janus Kinase (JAK) – Signal Transducer and Activator (STAT), Wnt/&#946;-catenin, and P53 pathways. </P><P> Methods: Activation of signal pathways may contribute to the generation, development, chemotherapy sensitivity of DLBCL, and expression of pathway molecules is associated with the prognosis of DLBCL. Some agents targeting these pathways have been proved effective and relevant clinical trials are in progress. These agents used single or combined with chemotherapy/each other might raise the possibility of improving clinical outcomes in DLBCL. </P><P> Conclusion: This review presents several signal pathways of DLBCL and targeted agents had a tendency to improve the curative effect, especially in high-risk or relapsed/refractory DLBCL.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transition Metal-Based Prodrugs for Anticancer Drug Delivery]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/94975</link><description><![CDATA[Transition metal complexes, of which the platinum(II) complex cisplatin is an example, have been used in medicine to treat cancer for more than 40 years. Although many successes have been achieved, there are problems associated with the use of these drugs, such as side effects and drug resistance. Converting them into prodrugs, to make them more inert, so that they can travel to the tumour site unchanged and release the drug in its active form only there, is a strategy which is the subject of much research nowadays. The new prodrugs may be activated and release the cytotoxic agent by differences in oxygen concentration or in pH, by the action of overexpressed enzymes, by differences in metabolic rates, etc., which characteristically distinguish cancer cells from normal ones, or even by the input of radiation, which can be visible light. Converting a metal complex into a prodrug may also be used to improve its pharmacological properties. In some cases, the metal complex is a carrier which transports the active drug as a ligand. Some platinum prodrugs have reached clinical trials. So far platinum, ruthenium and cobalt have been the most studied metals. This review presents the recent developments in this area, including the types of complexes used, the mechanisms of drug action and in some cases the techniques applied to monitor drug delivery to cells.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mechanism and Treatment of Rituximab Resistance in Diffuse Large Bcell Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/96148</link><description><![CDATA[Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype B non-Hodgkin lymphoma in adults. After rituximab being introduced to treat DLBCL, the current first-line treatment is R-CHOP regimen. This regimen greatly improves patient&#039;s prognosis, however, relapsed or refractory cases are commonly seen, mainly due to the resistance to rituximab. Although a large number of experiments have been conducted to investigate rituximab resistance, the exac mechanisms and solutions are still unclear. This review mainly explores the possible mechanisms oft rituximab resistance and current new effective treatments for rituximab resistance in DLBCL.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Drug Repurposing Screen Identifies Novel Classes of Drugs with Anticancer Activity in Mantle Cell Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/100815</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Aim and Objective: Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) is typically an aggressive and rare disease with poor prognosis, therefore new effective therapeutics are urgently needed. Drug repurposing for cancer treatment is becoming increasingly more attractive as an alternative approach to discover clinically approved drugs that demonstrate antineoplastic effect. The objective of this study was to screen an approved drug library and identify candidate compounds with an antineoplastic effect in MCL cells using High-Throughput Screening (HTS) technique. </P><P> Materials and Methods: Using the HTS technique, nearly 3,800 clinically approved drugs and drug candidates were screened in Jeko and Mino MCL cell lines. We also demonstrated the selectivity window of the candidate compounds in six normal cell lines. Further validations were performed in caspase-3/7 apoptosis assay and three-dimensional (3D) multicellular aggregates model using Z138 cell line. </P><P> Results: We identified 98 compounds showing >50% inhibition in either MCL cell line screened, they were distributed across eight unique therapeutic categories and have different mechanisms of action (MOA). We selected alisertib, carfilzomib, pracinostat and YM155 for further validation based on their antiproliferative activity in two MCL cell lines, selectivity to normal cell lines, and drug developing stages in terms of clinical research. Alisertib and carfilzomib showed antiproliferative effect on MCL cell with EC50 = 6 nM and >100-fold selectivity to normal cell lines, especially for alisertib which demonstrated >1000-fold selectivity to 5 out of 6 normal cell lines. Pracinostat and YM155 had potency of 11 and 12 nM in MCL cell with >20-fold selectivity to normal cell lines. All four compounds had been tested in caspase-dependent apoptosis assay. We further validated and demonstrated their anti-MCL effect on cell proliferation and (3D) multicellular aggregates model using Z138 cell line. </P><P> Conclusion: This is the first study to examine such a large library of clinically approved compounds for the identification of novel drug candidates for MCL treatment, the results could be rapidly translated into clinical practice in patients with MCL.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Impaired Myocardial MIF/AMPK Activation Aggravates Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/97553</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Obese patients are more sensitive to myocardial ischemia, which has been linked with high mortality rates. The following study investigates the effects of impaired macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF)/AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) activation on increased susceptibility to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in high-fat diet-induced obesity. </P><P> Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were fed with a normal diet (10% kcal as fat, lean group) or a high-fat diet (60kcal as fat, obese group) for 12 consecutive weeks. To detect the MIF expression and AMPK activation in response to I/R in isolated hearts from lean and obese mice, myocardial samples were collected from left ventricular areas at different time points. To determine whether MIF supplementation is protective against I/R injury, recombined MIF (10 ng/mL) was applied before ischemia. Myocardial infarct size was estimated by triphenyltetrazolium staining. Western blot was used to detect myocardial MIF expression, AMPK activation and membrane glucose transporter 4 (Glut4) expression. </P><P> Results: The expression of MIF was remarkably higher in obese group compared to lean group. Ischemia increased myocardial MIF expression and phosphorylation of AMPK in lean mice, whereas it had no significant effect on obese mice. Furthermore, administration of recombinant MIF increased ischemic AMPK activation and membrane Glut4 expression in both lean and obese mice, while it reduced the infarct size in lean mice only. </P><P> Conclusion: An impaired MIF/AMPK activation response and consequent reduced membrane Glut4 expression may play an important role in increasing myocardial susceptibility to I/R in obesity.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Molecular Pathology of Eye Tumors: A 2019 Update Main Interests for Routine Clinical Practice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/99994</link><description><![CDATA[Over the last few years, we have seen constant development of molecular pathology for the care of patients with cancer. The information obtained from molecular data has transformed our thinking about the biological diversity of cancers, particularly in the field of ophthalmic oncology. It has reoriented the way in which therapeutic decisions and decisions concerning patient surveillance are made, both in the area of pediatric cancers, including rhabdomyosarcoma and retinoblastoma, and adult cancers, such as uveal melanoma and lymphomas. A better definition of the molecular classification of these cancers and of the different biological pathways involved is essential to the understanding of both the pathologist and the onco-ophthalmologist. Molecular tests based on targeted or expanded analysis of gene panels are now available. These tests can be performed with tumor tissue or biofluids (especially blood) to predict the prognosis of tumors and, above all, the benefit of targeted therapies, immunotherapy or even chemotherapy. Looking for the BAP1 mutation in uveal melanoma is essential because of the associated metastatic risk. When treating retinoblastoma, it is mandatory to assess the heritable status of RB1. Conjunctival melanoma requires investigation into the BRAF mutation in the case of a locally advanced tumor. The understanding of genomic alterations, the results of molecular tests and/or other biological tests predictive of a therapeutic response, but also of the limits of these tests with respect to the available biological resources, represents a major challenge for optimal patient management in ophthalmic oncology. In this review, we present the current state of knowledge concerning the different molecular alterations and therapeutic targets of interest in ophthalmic oncology.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Lanthanum, Gallium and their Impact on Oxidative Stress]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/95613</link><description><![CDATA[The role metals play in living organisms is well established and subject to extensive research. Some of them participate in electron-exchange reactions. Such reactions cause generation of free radicals that can adversely impact biological systems, as a result of oxidative stress. The impact of ‘non-biological’ metals on oxidative stress is also a worthy pursuit due to the crucial role they play in modern civilization. Lanthanides (Ln) are widely used in modern technology. As a result, human exposure to them is increasing. They have a number of established medical applications and are being extensively researched for their potential antiviral, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties. The present review focuses on lanthanum (La) and its impact on oxidative stress. Another metal, widely used in modern high-tech is gallium (Ga). In some respects, it shows certain similarities to La, therefore it is a subject of the present review as well. Both metals exhibit ionic mimicry which allows them to specifically target malignant cells, initiating apoptosis that makes their simple salts and coordination complexes promising candidates for future anticancer agents.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeting p53-MDM2 Interaction Using Small Molecule Inhibitors and the Challenges Needed to be Addressed ]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/97747</link><description><![CDATA[MDM2 protein is the core negative regulator of p53 that maintains the cellular levels of p53 at a low level in normal cells. Mutation of the TP53 gene accounts for 50% of all human cancers. In the remaining malignancies with wild-type TP53, p53 function is inhibited through other mechanisms. Recently, synthetic small molecule inhibitors have been developed which target a small hydrophobic pocket on MDM2 to which p53 normally binds. Given that MDM2-p53 antagonists have been undergoing clinical trials for different types of cancer, this review illustrates different aspects of these new cancer targeted therapeutic agents with the focus on the major advances in the field. It emphasizes on the p53 function, regulation of p53, targeting of the p53-MDM2 interaction for cancer therapy, and p53-dependent and -independent effects of inhibition of p53-MDM2 interaction. Then, representatives of small molecule MDM2-p53 binding antagonists are introduced with a focus on those entered into clinical trials. Furthermore, the review discusses the gene signatures in order to predict sensitivity to MDM2 antagonists, potential side effects and the reasons for the observed hematotoxicity, mechanisms of resistance to these drugs, their evaluation as monotherapy or in combination with conventional chemotherapy or with other targeted therapeutic agents. Finally, it highlights the certainly intriguing questions and challenges which would be addressed in future studies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[New Mechanistic Insight on the PIM-1 Kinase Inhibitor AZD1208 Using Multidrug Resistant Human Erythroleukemia Cell Lines and Molecular Docking Simulations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/98429</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: PIM-1 is a kinase which has been related to the oncogenic processes like cell survival, proliferation, and multidrug resistance (MDR). This kinase is known for its ability to phosphorylate the main extrusion pump (ABCB1) related to the MDR phenotype. </P><P> Objective: In the present work, we tested a new mechanistic insight on the AZD1208 (PIM-1 specific inhibitor) under interaction with chemotherapy agents such as Daunorubicin (DNR) and Vincristine (VCR). </P><P> Materials and Methods: In order to verify a potential cytotoxic effect based on pharmacological synergism, two MDR cell lines were used: Lucena (resistant to VCR) and FEPS (resistant to DNR), both derived from the K562 non-MDR cell line, by MTT analyses. The activity of Pgp was ascertained by measuring accumulation and the directional flux of Rh123. Furthermore, we performed a molecular docking simulation to delve into the molecular mechanism of PIM-1 alone, and combined with chemotherapeutic agents (VCR and DNR). </P><P> Results: Our in vitro results have shown that AZD1208 alone decreases cell viability of MDR cells. However, co-exposure of AZD1208 and DNR or VCR reverses this effect. When we analyzed the ABCB1 activity AZD1208 alone was not able to affect the pump extrusion. Differently, co-exposure of AZD1208 and DNR or VCR impaired ABCB1 activity, which could be explained by compensatory expression of abcb1 or other extrusion pumps not analyzed here. Docking analysis showed that AZD1208 is capable of performing hydrophobic interactions with PIM-1 ATP- binding-site residues with stronger interaction-based negative free energy (FEB, kcal/mol) than the ATP itself, mimicking an ATP-competitive inhibitory pattern of interaction. On the same way, VCR and DNR may theoretically interact at the same biophysical environment of AZD1208 and also compete with ATP by the PIM-1 active site. These evidences suggest that AZD1208 may induce pharmacodynamic interaction with VCR and DNR, weakening its cytotoxic potential in the ATP-binding site from PIM-1 observed in the in vitro experiments. </P><P> Conclusion: Finally, the current results could have a pre-clinical relevance potential in the rational polypharmacology strategies to prevent multiple-drugs resistance in human leukemia cancer therapy.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nano Drug Delivery in Treatment of Oral Cancer, A Review of the Literature ]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/97422</link><description><![CDATA[Oral Cancer (OC) is a serious and growing problem which constitutes a huge burden on people in more and less economically developed countries alike. The scenario is clearly depicted from the increase in the expected number of new cases in the US diagnosed with OC from 49,670 people in 2016, to 49,750 cases in 2017. The situation is even more alarming in India, with 75,000 to 80,000 new cases being reported every year, thus making it the OC capital of the world. Leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral lichen planus, oral submucous fibrosis, discoid lupus erythmatosus, hereditary disorders such as dyskeratosis congenital and epidermolisys bullosa are highlighted by WHO expert working group as the predisposing factors increasing the risk of OC. Consumption of tobacco and alcohol, genetic factors, and human papilloma virus are assigned as the factors contributing to the aetiology of OC. On the other hand, pathogenesis of OC involves not only apoptosis but also pain, inflammation and oxidative stress. Inspite of current treatment options (surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy), OC is often associated with recurrence and formation of secondary primary tumours resulting in poor overall survival rates (∼50%). The intervention of nano technology-based drug delivery systems as therapeutics for cancers is often viewed as a cutting edge for technologists. Though ample literature on the usefulness of nano-coutured cancer therapeutics, rarely any product is in pipeline. Yet, despite all the hype about nanotechnology, there are few ongoing trials. This review discusses the current and future trends of nano-based drug delivery for the treatment of OC.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances in Use of Topoisomerase Inhibitors in Combination Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/97709</link><description><![CDATA[Inhibitors targeting human topoisomerase I and topoisomerase II alpha have provided a useful chemotherapy option for the treatment of many patients suffering from a variety of cancers. While the treatment can be effective in many patient cases, use of these human topoisomerase inhibitors is limited by side-effects that can be severe. A strategy of employing the topoisomerase inhibitors in combination with other treatments can potentially sensitize the cancer to increase the therapeutic efficacy and reduce resistance or adverse side effects. The combination strategies reviewed here include inhibitors of DNA repair, epigenetic modifications, signaling modulators and immunotherapy. The ongoing investigations on cellular response to topoisomerase inhibitors and newly initiated clinical trials may lead to adoption of novel cancer therapy regimens that can effectively stop the proliferation of cancer cells while limiting the development of resistance.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nitrogen Mustards as Anticancer Chemotherapies: Historic Perspective, Current Developments and Future Trends]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/97704</link><description><![CDATA[Nitrogen mustards, a family of DNA alkylating agents, marked the start of cancer pharmacotherapy. While traditionally characterized by their dose-limiting toxic effects, nitrogen mustards have been the subject of intense research efforts, which have led to safer and more effective agents. Even though the alkylating prodrug mustards were first developed decades ago, active research on ways to improve their selectivity and cytotoxic efficacy is a currently active topic of research. This review addresses the historical development of the nitrogen mustards, outlining their mechanism of action, and discussing the improvements on their therapeutic profile made through rational structure modifications. A special emphasis is made on discussing the nitrogen mustard prodrug category, with Cyclophosphamide (CPA) serving as the main highlight. Selected insights on the latest developments on nitrogen mustards are then provided, limiting such information to agents that preserve the original nitrogen mustard mechanism as their primary mode of action. Additionally, future trends that might follow in the quest to optimize these invaluable chemotherapeutic medications are succinctly suggested.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[ABC Transporters in Extrahepatic Tissues: Pharmacological Regulation in Heart and Intestine]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/89307</link><description><![CDATA[ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters are transmembrane proteins expressed in secretory epithelia like the liver, kidneys and intestine, in the epithelia exhibiting barrier function such as the blood-brain barrier and placenta, and to a much lesser extent, in tissues like reproductive organs, lungs, heart and pancreas, among others. They regulate internal distribution of endogenous metabolites and xenobiotics including drugs of therapeutic use and also participate in their elimination from the body. We here describe the function and regulation of ABC transporters in the heart and small intestine, as examples of extrahepatic tissues, in which ABC proteins play clearly different roles. In the heart, they are involved in tissue pathogenesis as well as in protecting this organ against toxic compounds and druginduced oxidative stress. The small intestine is highly exposed to therapeutic drugs taken orally and, consequently, ABC transporters localized on its surface strongly influence drug absorption and pharmacokinetics. Examples of the ABC proteins currently described are Multidrug Resistance-associated Proteins 1 and 2 (MRP1 and 2) for heart and small intestine, respectively, and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP) for both organs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Biological Therapy of Hematologic Malignancies: Toward a Chemotherapy- free Era]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/86243</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Less than 70 years ago, the vast majority of hematologic malignancies were untreatable diseases with fatal prognoses. The development of modern chemotherapy agents, which had begun after the Second World War, was markedly accelerated by the discovery of the structure of DNA and its role in cancer biology and tumor cell division. The path travelled from the first temporary remissions observed in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with single-agent antimetabolites until the first cures achieved by multi-agent chemotherapy regimens was incredibly short. Despite great successes, however, conventional genotoxic cytostatics suffered from an inherently narrow therapeutic index and extensive toxicity, which in many instances limited their clinical utilization. In the last decade of the 20th century, increasing knowledge on the biology of certain malignancies resulted in the conception and development of first molecularly targeted agents designed to inhibit specific druggable molecules involved in the survival of cancer cells. Advances in technology and genetic engineering enabled the production of structurally complex anticancer macromolecules called biologicals, including therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates and antibody fragments. The development of drug delivery systems (DDSs), in which conventional drugs were attached to various types of carriers including nanoparticles, liposomes or biodegradable polymers, represented an alternative approach to the development of new anticancer agents. Despite the fact that the antitumor activity of drugs attached to DDSs was not fundamentally different, the improved pharmacokinetic profiles, decreased toxic side effects and significantly increased therapeutic indexes resulted in their enhanced antitumor efficacy compared to conventional (unbound) drugs. </P><P> Approval of the first immune checkpoint inhibitor for the treatment of cancer in 2011 initiated the era of cancer immunotherapy. Checkpoint inhibitors, bispecific T-cell engagers, adoptive T-cell approaches and cancer vaccines have joined the platform so far, represented mainly by recombinant cytokines, therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and immunomodulatory agents. In specific clinical indications, conventional drugs have already been supplanted by multi-agent, chemotherapy-free regimens comprising diverse immunotherapy and/or targeted agents. The very distinct mechanisms of the anticancer activity of new immunotherapy approaches not only call for novel response criteria, but might also change fundamental treatment paradigms of certain types of hematologic malignancies in the near future.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transient Production of Recombinant Pharmaceutical Proteins in Plants: Evolution and Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/84832</link><description><![CDATA[During the last two decades, the production of pharmaceutical proteins in plants evolved from proof of concept to established technology adopted by several biotechnological companies. This progress is particularly based on intensive research starting stable genetic transformation and moving to transient expression. Due to its advantages in yield and speed of protein production transient expression platforms became the leading plant-based manufacturing technology. Current transient expression methods rely on Agrobacteriummediated delivery of expression vectors into plant cells. In recent years, great advances have been made in the improvement of expression vectors, host cell engineering as well as in the development of commercial manufacturing processes. Several GMP-certified large-scale production facilities exist around the world to utilize agroinfiltration method. A number of pharmaceutical proteins produced by transient expression are currently in clinical development. The great potential of transient expression platform in respect to rapid response to emerging pandemics was demonstrated by the production of experimental ZMapp antibodies against Ebola virus as well as influenza vaccines. This review is focused on current design, status and future perspectives of plant transient expression system for the production of biopharmaceutical proteins.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Antibody Fragments as Potential Biopharmaceuticals for Cancer Therapy: Success and Limitations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/85342</link><description><![CDATA[Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are an important class of therapeutic agents approved for the therapy of many types of malignancies. However, in certain cases applications of conventional mAbs have several limitations in anticancer immunotherapy. These limitations include insufficient efficacy and adverse effects. The antigen-binding fragments of antibodies have a considerable potential to overcome the disadvantages of conventional mAbs, such as poor penetration into solid tumors and Fc-mediated bystander activation of the immune system. Fragments of antibodies retain antigen specificity and part of functional properties of conventional mAbs and at the same time have much better penetration into the tumors and a greatly reduced level of adverse effects. Recent advantages in antibody engineering allowed to produce different types of antibody fragments with improved structure and properties for efficient elimination of tumor cells. These molecules opened up new perspectives for anticancer therapy. Here, we will overview the structural features of the various types of antibody fragments and their applications for anticancer therapy as separate molecules and as part of complex conjugates or structures. Mechanisms of antitumor action of antibody fragments as well as their advantages and disadvantages for clinical application will be discussed in this review.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Epigenetic Targets and their Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/95390</link><description><![CDATA[Epigenetics is defined as the stable and heritable alternations in gene expression without changing the DNA nucleotide sequence. The initiation and progression of cancer result from not only genetic mutation, but also aberrant epigenetic regulation, such as DNA methylation and histones acetylation. Although Genetic alternations cannot be reversed, epigenetic modification is a dynamic and reversible process. Over the past few decades, much progress has been made in the research of epigenetic medications and a variety of drugs have been developed targeting at epigenetic regulatory proteins, which are capable of restoring malignant cancer cells to the normal state. The epigenetic drugs currently approved for cancer treatment mainly target at DNA methylation and histones acetylation. In addition, there are a great many epigenetic drugs in clinical trials for cancer therapy, such as inhibitors of DNA methyltransferases, histone deacetylases, histone methyltransferases, lysine specific demethylases, and BET (bromodomain and extra-terminal domain) family proteins. We will discuss the latest developments of these inhibitors and their applications in cancer therapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Development of Epigenetics and Related Inhibitors for Targeted Drug Design in Cancer Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/94547</link><description><![CDATA[Epigenetics process is the heritable change in gene function that does not involve changes in the DNA sequence. Until now, several types of epigenetic mechanisms have been characterized, including DNA methylation, histone modification (acetylation, methylation, etc.), nucleosome remodeling, and noncoding RNAs. With the biological investigations of these modifiers, some of them are identified as promoters in the process of various diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and virus infection. Epigenetic changes may serve as potential “first hits” for tumorigenesis. Hence, targeting epigenetic modifiers is being considered as a promising way for disease treatment. To date, six agents in two epigenetic target classes (DNMT and HDAC) have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Most of these drugs are applied in leukemia, lymphoma therapy, or are combined with other drugs for the treatment of solid tumor. Due to the rapid development of epigenetics and epigenetics targeted drugs, it is becoming an emerging area in targeted drug design.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Treatment of Lymphoid and Myeloid Malignancies by Immunomodulatory Drugs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/90570</link><description><![CDATA[Thalidomide and its derivatives (lenalidomide, pomalidomide, avadomide, iberdomide hydrochoride, CC-885 and CC-90009) form the family of immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). Lenalidomide (CC5013, Revlimid&#174;) was approved by the US FDA and the EMA for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) patients, low or intermediate-1 risk transfusion-dependent myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with chromosome 5q deletion [del(5q)] and relapsed and/or refractory mantle cell lymphoma following bortezomib. Lenalidomide has also been studied in clinical trials and has shown promising activity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Lenalidomide has anti-inflammatory effects and inhibits angiogenesis. Pomalidomide (CC4047, Imnovid® [EU], Pomalyst&#174; [USA]) was approved for advanced MM insensitive to bortezomib and lenalidomide. Other IMiDs are in phases 1 and 2 of clinical trials. Cereblon (CRBN) seems to have an important role in IMiDs action in both lymphoid and myeloid hematological malignancies. Cereblon acts as the substrate receptor of a cullin-4 really interesting new gene (RING) E3 ubiquitin ligase CRL4CRBN. This E3 ubiquitin ligase in the absence of lenalidomide ubiquitinates CRBN itself and the other components of CRL4CRBN complex. Presence of lenalidomide changes specificity of CRL4CRBN which ubiquitinates two transcription factors, IKZF1 (Ikaros) and IKZF3 (Aiolos), and casein kinase 1&#945; (CK1&#945;) and marks them for degradation in proteasomes. Both these transcription factors (IKZF1 and IKZF3) stimulate proliferation of MM cells and inhibit T cells. Low CRBN level was connected with insensitivity of MM cells to lenalidomide. Lenalidomide decreases expression of protein argonaute-2, which binds to cereblon. Argonaute-2 seems to be an important drug target against IMiDs resistance in MM cells. Lenalidomide decreases also basigin and monocarboxylate transporter 1 in MM cells. MM cells with low expression of Ikaros, Aiolos and basigin are more sensitive to lenalidomide treatment. The CK1&#945; gene (CSNK1A1) is located on 5q32 in commonly deleted region (CDR) in del(5q) MDS. Inhibition of CK1&#945; sensitizes del(5q) MDS cells to lenalidomide. CK1&#945; mediates also survival of malignant plasma cells in MM. Though, inhibition of CK1&#945; is a potential novel therapy not only in del(5q) MDS but also in MM. High level of full length CRBN mRNA in mononuclear cells of bone marrow and of peripheral blood seems to be necessary for successful therapy of del(5q) MDS with lenalidomide. While transfusion independence (TI) after lenalidomide treatment is more than 60% in MDS patients with del(5q), only 25% TI and substantially shorter duration of response with occurrence of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were achieved in lower risk MDS patients with normal karyotype treated with lenalidomide. Shortage of the biomarkers for lenalidomide response in these MDS patients is the main problem up to now.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[CDK9 as an Appealing Target for Therapeutic Interventions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/94031</link><description><![CDATA[Cyclin Dependent Kinase 9 (CDK9) as a serine/threonine kinase belongs to a great number of CDKs. CDK9 is the main core of PTEF-b complex and phosphorylates RNA polymerase (RNAP) II besides other transcription factors which regulate gene transcription elongation in numerous physiological processes. Multi-functional nature of CDK9 in diverse cellular pathways proposes that it is as an appealing target. In this review, we summarized the recent findings on the molecular interaction of CDK9 with critical participant molecules to modulate their activity in various diseases. Furthermore, the presented review provides a rationale supporting the use of CDK9 as a therapeutic target in clinical developments for crucial diseases; particularly cancers will be reviewed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prevalence of HIV in Patients with Malignancy and of Malignancy in HIV Patients in a Tertiary Care Center from North India]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/93818</link><description><![CDATA[Background and Objectives: People living with HIV/AIDS are at an increased risk of developing cancer. The goals of this study were to obtain data on the prevalence of HIV in the cancer population and vice versa at a major tertiary cancer and HIV center in North India. </P><P> Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over a 3-year period from July 2013 to June 2016, wherein successive HIV positive patients from an anti-retroviral therapy (ART) center were screened for malignancy. Simultaneously, successive cancer patients at the cancer center were screened for HIV. Baseline demographic details, risk factors, and laboratory investigations were obtained for all the patients. </P><P> Results: Among the 999 HIV-positive patients at the ART center, the prevalence of malignancy was 2% (n=20; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13, 2.87). Among the 998 patients with a malignancy, the prevalence of HIV infection was 0.9% (n=9; 95% CI 0.31, 1.49). Weight loss, loss of appetite, and fever were the most common symptoms in patients with HIV and cancer. Among 29 patients with HIV and cancer, AIDS-defining cancer was found in 19 patients; non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma was the most common malignancy reported (n=13). </P><P> Interpretation and Conclusion: There is a low prevalence of HIV in cancer patients as well as a low prevalence of cancer in HIV patients. AIDS-defining cancers remain much more common than non-AIDS-defining cancers. With the increased coverage of ART, it is expected that non-AIDSdefining cancers will increase, as is evident from data from more developed countries.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Endothelial and Circulating Progenitor Cells in Hematological Diseases and Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/86341</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Circulating endothelial cells (CECs), originated form endothelial progenitors (EPCs) are mature cells not associated with vessel walls and detached from the endothelium. Normally, they are present in insignificant amounts in the peripheral blood of healthy individuals. On the other hand, elevated CECs and EPCs levels have been reported in the peripheral blood of patients with different types of cancers and other diseases. </P><P> Objective: This review aims to provide an overview on the characterization of CECs and EPCs, to describe isolation methods and to identify the potential role of these cells in hematological diseases and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. </P><P> Methods: We performed a detailed search of peer-reviewed literature using keywords related to CECs, EPCs, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and hematological diseases (hemoglobinopathies, hodgkin and non-hodgkin lymphoma, acute leukemia, myeloproliferative syndromes, chronic lymphocytic leukemia). </P><P> Results: CECs and EPCs are potential biomarkers for several clinical conditions involving endothelial turnover and remodeling, such as in hematological diseases. These cells may be involved in disease progression and in the neoplastic process. Moreover, CECs and EPCs are probably involved in endothelial damage which is a marker of several complications following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. </P><P> Conclusion: This review provides information about the role of CECs and EPCs in hematological malignancies and shows their implication in predicting disease activity as well as improving HSCT outcomes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Breaking the Barrier of Cancer Through Liposome Loaded with Phytochemicals]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/93125</link><description><![CDATA[Currently, the most important cause of death is cancer. To treat the cancer there are a number of drugs existing in the market but no drug is found to be completely safe and effective. The toxicity of the drugs is the key problem in the cancer chemotherapy. However, plants and plant derived bioactive molecule have proved safe and effective in the treatment of cancers. Phytochemicals that are found in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and plant extract have been usually used for treating cancer. It has been established that several herbal drug have a strong anticancer activity. However, their poor bioavailability, solubility, and stability have severely restricted their use. These problems can be overcome by incorporating the herbal drug in nanolipolomal vesicles. In last few decades, researcher have used herbal drug loaded nanoliposome for the treatment and management of a variety of cancers. Presently, a number of liposomal formulations are on the market for the treatment of cancer and many more are in pipe line. This review discusses about the tumor microenvironment, targeting mechanism of bioactive phytochemicals to the tumor tissue, background of nanoliposome, and the potential therapeutic applications of different bioactive phytochemicals loaded nanoliposome in cancer therapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Progress in Clinical Development of Therapeutic Antibodies Targeting Glycan-Binding Proteins]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/88997</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Glycan-binding proteins are widely distributed in human and play an essential role in biological processes. Their involvements in inflammatory and immune responses make it increasingly likely that the glycan-binding proteins may represent valuable therapeutic targets. </P><P> Objective: The current review aims to provide information on recent advancements in clinical developments of antibodies against glycan-binding proteins as potential targets. </P><P> Results and Conclusion: There are several therapeutic antibodies being developed targeting glycanbinding proteins, including CD22, CD33, DEC-205, and CD62P, for different diseases. The clinical investigations demonstrated benefits of treatments with one antibody-drug conjugate against CD22 being approved by the regulatory agencies. The recent progresses in clinical developments of these antibodies have provided great promises in therapeutic targeting of more glycan-binding proteins for treating multiple diseases, including inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and hematological malignancies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pegylated Naloxone in the Treatment of Persistent Opioid-Induced Constipation in Patients with Hematological Malignancies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/92895</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Synopsis on the Role of Human Papilloma Virus Infection in Cervical Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/88898</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Understanding of cervical cancer severity is still an important health issue across the world, especially for developing countries. Cancer or abnormal growth of the cell is one of the major health problems of the world. There are about two hundred types of malignancies reported till date. An updated statistic of all the main types of cancer and pathophysiology of cervical cancer is a significant need for designing the future treatment strategy. </P><P> Objective: In this review, a brief update on cancer, its causes and different types has been discussed along with updated statistics of patient&#039;s mortality. A brief overview of cervical cancer and its pathophysiology has been discussed with special emphasis on its causative agent, human papilloma virus (HPV). A brief introduction and update on genetics, molecular pathogenesis and prevalence of HPV and its role in cervical cancer have been added. </P><P> Conclusion: This review delivered an updated status of cervical cancer and provide novel therapeutic approaches for targeting HPV. The detailed molecular and genomic information of the HPV help the researchers to develop more effective and efficacious therapeutic strategies and preventive vaccines that will significantly contribute to the control and anticipation of cervical cancer. Ultimately this may open new vistas to get rid of this deadly disease and may offer significant reduction in the numbers of advanced cervical cancers and deaths from cervical cancer in the affected nations.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Clinical and Immunological Features of Patients with Primary Antibody Deficiencies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/89704</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Primary antibody deficiency (PAD) comprises a range of diseases from early to late terminal B cells defects and is associated with the various clinical complications. </P><P> Methods: A total of 461 patients (311 males and 150 females) with PADs enrolled in the retrospective cohort study and for all patients’ demographic information, clinical records and laboratory data were collected to investigate clinical complications. </P><P> Results: The most prevalent first presentations of immunodeficiency were respiratory tract infections in 63.5% and chronic diarrhea in 17.2%. Common variable immune deficiency (CVID) patients had a higher diagnostic delay than class switching defect (CSD), and agammaglobulinemia. Among the noninfectious complications, autoimmunity (26.2%), and splenomegaly (23.4%) were the most common. Lymphadenopathy was higher in CSD patients than other PADs, while splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, autoimmunity and bronchiectasis were more common in CVID patients than others. Atopic manifestations were mostly recorded in patients with selective IgA deficiency. Malignancy was only reported in 5.8% of patients with CVID. There was a higher prevalence of autoimmune manifestations in CVID comparing to other PADs. </P><P> Conclusion: PADs are relatively rare diseases and these patients have a variety of first clinical manifestations, such as diverse infections, autoimmunity, lymphoproliferation, allergy, enteropathy and malignancy. Practitioner’s awareness about the heterogeneous presentations of PAD disorders is poor, therefore patients often are lately diagnosed, and they are complicated with several clinical complications before the certain diagnosis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Relationship of Blinatumomab in Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/90536</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Blinatumomab is a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE&#174;) antibody construct targeting CD3ε on T cells and CD19 on B cells. We describe the relationship between pharmacokinetics (PK) of blinatumomab and pharmacodynamic (PD) changes in peripheral lymphocytes, serum cytokines, and tumor size in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). </p><p> Methods: In a phase 1 study, 76 patients with relapsed/refractory NHL received blinatumomab by continuous intravenous infusion at various doses (0.5 to 90 &#181;g/m2/day). PD changes were analyzed with respect to dose, blinatumomab concentration at steady state (Css), and cumulative area under the concentration-versus-time curve (AUCcum). </p><p> Results: B-cell depletion occurred within 48 hours at doses &#8805;5 &#181;g/m2/day, followed first-order kinetics, and was blinatumomab exposure-dependent. Change in tumor size depended on systemic blinatumomab exposure and treatment duration and could be fitted to an Emax model, which predicted a 50% reduction in tumor size at AUCcum of &#8805;1,340 h&#215;&#181;g/L and Css of &#8805;1,830 pg/mL, corresponding to a blinatumomab dose of 47 &#181;g/m2/day for 28 days. The magnitude of transient cytokine elevation, observed within 1-2 days of infusion start, was dose-dependent, with less pronounced elevation at low starting doses. </p><p> Conclusion: B-lymphocyte depletion following blinatumomab infusion was exposure-dependent. Transient cytokine elevation increased with dose; it was less pronounced at low starting doses. Tumor response was a function of exposure, suggesting utility for the PK/PD relationship in dose selection for future studies, including NHL and other malignant settings.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Toward Small-Molecule Inhibition of Protein–Protein Interactions: General Aspects and Recent Progress in Targeting Costimulatory and Coinhibitory (Immune Checkpoint) Interactions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/90808</link><description><![CDATA[Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) that are part of the costimulatory and coinhibitory (immune checkpoint) signaling are critical for adequate T cell response and are important therapeutic targets for immunomodulation. Biologics targeting them have already achieved considerable clinical success in the treatment of autoimmune diseases or transplant recipients (e.g., abatacept, belatacept, and belimumab) as well as cancer (e.g., ipilimumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, durvalumab, and avelumab). In view of such progress, there have been only relatively limited efforts toward developing small-molecule PPI inhibitors (SMPPIIs) targeting these cosignaling interactions, possibly because they, as all other PPIs, are difficult to target by small molecules and were not considered druggable. Nevertheless, substantial progress has been achieved during the last decade. SMPPIIs proving the feasibility of such approaches have been identified through various strategies for a number of cosignaling interactions including CD40-CD40L, OX40-OX40L, BAFFR-BAFF, CD80-CD28, and PD-1-PD-L1s. Here, after an overview of the general aspects and challenges of SMPPII-focused drug discovery, we review them briefly together with relevant structural, immune-signaling, physicochemical, and medicinal chemistry aspects. While so far only a few of these SMPPIIs have shown activity in animal models (DRI-C21045 for CD40-D40L, KR33426 for BAFFR-BAFF) or reached clinical development (RhuDex for CD80-CD28, CA-170 for PD-1-PD-L1), there is proof-of-principle evidence for the feasibility of such approaches in immunomodulation. They can result in products that are easier to develop/ manufacture and are less likely to be immunogenic or encounter postmarket safety events than corresponding biologics, and, contrary to them, can even become orally bioavailable.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Biological Agents in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Link Between Immune Tolerance and Immune Surveillance]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/80696</link><description><![CDATA[The biological drugs have all been successfully used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and have led to fair rates of clinical remission; however, the possible occurrence of adverse events such as infectious diseases or cancers means that the patients undergoing treatment need to be closely monitored. Anti-TNF agents, first appeared in the pharmacological algorithm of RA in the early 2000s, seem to lead to a higher risk of reactivated tubercular infection than the biological agents with different mechanism of action (abatacept or rituximab). Although the data on anti-TNF agents and cancer are controversial, their use is currently not recommended in neoplastic patients because of their uncertain effects on immune-surveillance. The safety profile of abatacept is similar to that of other biological agents, while rituximab is used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphomas and is also considered in the case of RA patients with previous hematological or non-hematological malignancies. The risk of infections and new-onset cancers during tocilizumab treatment is similar to that associated with other biological therapies. Finally, under particular circumstances, such as in the presence of infections or malignancies, blocking a specific immunological pathway may be simultaneously successful and detrimental. The only thing that can be done at the moment is to continue to look for adverse events in order to discover these complications as soon as possible, and then develop the most appropriate means of treating (and even preventing) them.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Targeting Kinase-activating Genetic Lesions to Improve Therapy of Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/85020</link><description><![CDATA[Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common hematologic malignancy in children, characterized by an abnormal proliferation of immature lymphoid cells. Thanks to risk-adapted combination chemotherapy treatments currently used, survival at 5 years has reached 90%. ALL is a heterogeneous disease from a genetic point of view: patients’ lymphoblasts may harbor in fact several chromosomal alterations, some of which have prognostic and therapeutic value. Of particular importance is the translocation t(9;22)(q34;q11.2) that leads to the formation of the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene, encoding a constitutively active chimeric tyrosine kinase (TK): BCR-ABL1 that is present in ~3% of pediatric ALL patients with B-immunophenotype and is associated with a poor outcome. This type of ALL is potentially treatable with specific TK inhibitors, such as imatinib. Recent studies have demonstrated the existence of a subset of BCR-ABL1 like leukemias (~10-15% of Bimmunophenotype ALL), whose blast cells have a gene expression profile similar to that of BCR-ABL1 despite the absence of t(9;22)(q34;q11.2). The precise pathogenesis of BCR-ABL1 like ALL is still to be defined, but they are mainly characterized by the activation of constitutive signal transduction pathways due to chimeric TKs different from BCR-ABL1. BCR-ABL1 like ALL patients represent a group with unfavorable outcome and are not identified by current risk criteria. In this review, we will discuss the design of targeted therapy for patients with BCR-ABL1 like ALL, which could consider TK inhibitors, and discuss innovative approaches suitable to identify the presence of patient’s specific chimeric TK fusion genes, such as targeted locus amplification or proteomic biosensors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Selectively Targeted Anti-Neoplastic Cytotoxicity of Three Immunopharmaceuticals with Covalently Bound Fludarabine, Gemcitabine and Dexamethasone Moieties Synthesized Utilizing Organic Chemistry Reactions in a Multi-Stage Regimen]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/86867</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Unintentional passive diffusion of conventional small molecular weight pharmaceuticals across intact membranes of normal healthy cells in tissues and organ systems induces sequelae that limit therapeutic dosage and duration of administration. Selective “targeted” delivery of pharmaceuticals is a molecular strategy that can potentially provide heightened margins-of-safety with greater potency and improved efficacy. </P><P> Materials and Methods: Monophosphate analogs of fludarabine, gemcitabine, and dexamethasone were combined with a carbodiimide reagent in the presence of imidazole to produce reactive intermediates that were subsequently covalently bound to monoclonal anti-IGF-1R or anti-EGFR IgG-immunoglobulin. The resulting covalent immunopharmaceutical end-products, fludarabine-(5&#39;-phosphoramidate)-[anti-IGF-1R], gemcitabine-(5&#39;- phosphoramidate)-[anti-IGF-1R], and dexamethasone-(C21-phosphoramidate)-[anti-EGFR] were evaluated by SDS-PAGE/chemiluminescent autoradiography (fragmentation/polymerization detection), UV spectrophotometric absorbance (purity; molar-incorporation-index), cell-ELISA (retained selective binding-avidity), and cell vitality-viability (selectively “targeted” anti-neoplastic cytotoxicity). </P><P> Results: Maximum selectively “targeted” anti-neoplastic cytotoxicity of fludarabine-(5&#39;-phosphoramidate)-[anti- IGF-1R], gemcitabine-(5&#39;-phosphoramidate)-[anti-IGF-1R], and dexamethasone-(C21-phosphoramidate)-[anti- EGFR] was detected at the pharmaceutical-equivalent concentrations of 10-5 M (94.7%), 10-7 M (93.1%), and 10-7 M (64.9%) respectively. </P><P> Discussion: Organic chemistry reactions were optimized in a template multi-stage synthesis regimen for fludarabine-( 5&#39;-phosphoramidate)-[anti-IGF-1R], gemcitabine-(5’-phosphoramidate)-[anti-IGF-1R], and dexamethasone-( C21-phosphoramidate)-[anti-EGFR]. Attributes of the synthesis regimen include; [-i-] covalent bonding of pharmaceutical moeities at high molar incorporation indexes, [-ii-] implementation of organic chemistry reactions in a non-dedicated synthesis regimen allowing component substitution and [-iii-] optional preservation of presynthesized amine-reactive pharmaceutical intermediates for on-demand immunopharmaceutical synthesis. Attributes of the covalent immunopharmaceuticals are; absence of any synthetically introduced chemical groups, retained IgG-immunoglobulin binding-avidity and potent selective “targeted” anti-neoplastic cytotoxic potency. Under in-vivo conditions, supplemental anti-neoplastic cytotoxicity is realized through trophic receptor inhibition and activation of multiple cytotoxic host immune responses.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Impact of p53 arg72pro SNP on Breast Cancer Risk in North Indian Population]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/87251</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Genetic changes in p53 gene contribute to breast cancer susceptibility. </P><P> Objective and Methods: A case-control study and a meta-analysis were performed to investigate the role of p53 codon72 SNP with breast cancer susceptibility in Indian women. </P><P> Results: p53 heterozygous arginine variant was associated with decreased risk of breast cancer in total cohort. In meta-analysis, Allelic and GG <i>vs.</i> CC genetic comparison model were found to be associated with breast cancer risk. Moreover, recessive comparison model indicated a protective correlation with breast cancer occurrence. </P><P> Conclusion: The findings of our case-control study and meta-analysis suggest a significant association between p53 Arg72Pro polymorphism and an increased risk of breast cancer in Indian population.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[CAR T-cell Therapy: A New Era in Cancer Immunotherapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/89803</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Over the years, a number of conventional cytotoxic approaches for neoplastic diseases has been developed. However, due to their limited effectiveness in accordance with the heterogeneity of cancer cells, there is a constant search for therapeutic approaches with improved outcome, such as immunotherapy that utilizes and enhances the normal capacity of the patient’s immune system. </P><P> Methods: Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy involves genetic modification of patient’s autologous T-cells to express a CAR specific for a tumor antigen, following by ex vivo cell expansion and re-infusion back to the patient. CARs are fusion proteins of a selected single-chain fragment variable from a specific monoclonal antibody and one or more T-cell receptor intracellular signaling domains. This T-cell genetic modification may occur either via viral-based gene transfer methods or nonviral methods, such as DNA-based transposons, CRISPR/Cas9 technology or direct transfer of in vitro transcribed-mRNA by electroporation. </P><P> Results: Clinical trials have shown very promising results in end-stage patients with a full recovery of up to 92% in Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. Despite such results in hematological cancers, the effective translation of CAR T-cell therapy to solid tumors and the corresponding clinical experience is limited due to therapeutic barriers, like CAR T-cell expansion, persistence, trafficking, and fate within tumors. </P><P> Conclusion: In this review, the basic design of CARs, the main genetic modification strategies, the safety matters as well as the initial clinical experience with CAR T-cells are described.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Enhancement Antimicrobial Activity of Clarithromycin by Amine Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery System]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/88015</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Nano-drug delivery systems as mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with unique properties have the potential to improve drug efficacy. The purpose of the present study was to design of CLM loaded MSNs-NH2 to improve the physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity with enhancement delivery to infected tissues. </P><P> Methods: A large pore amine functionalized MSN (MSNs-NH2) is described here to facilitate delivery of clarithromycin (CLM) as an antibacterial drug and enhance the efficacy against Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial samples. Prepared particles were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), nitrogen adsorption/ desorption isotherms, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by agar well diffusion and broth dilution methods. Therefore, the biodistribution of FITC-MSNs was investigated by measure the NIR intensity fluorescent of fluorescent images from whole animal and dissected organs of NMRI mice. </P><P> Results: The results showed that the CLM loaded MSNs-NH2 (CLM/MSNs-NH2) were successfully prepared having good payload and pH-sensitive drug release kinetics. The antimicrobial investigation against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was showed better performance of antimicrobial activity of these nanoparticles. In vivo and ex vivo fluorescent imaging investigation on NMRI mice were shown that FITC-MSNs-NH2 accumulated in the liver and kidney and notably in lung tissue. </P><P> Conclusion: The CLM/MSNs-NH2 exhibited higher antimicrobial activity and enhanced the possibility of microbial infection therapy especially at respiratory infections.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cancer Targeted Therapy Strategy: The Pathologist’s Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/87141</link><description><![CDATA[The effectiveness of new personalized treatment procedures in oncology is based on the fact that certain tumors exhibit specific molecular features. </P><P> More in detail, neoplastic tissues of patients should display a specific biomarker, most often a specific genetic alteration and/or under/overexpression of a definite protein, that could be the target of its respective drug. Immunohistochemical and molecular analyses, which usually include examination of nucleic acids from either tissues or fluids, are common tests to define the status of a tumor. </P><P> This review focuses on the pathologist’s role in carefully controlling pre- analytic procedures and standard operating procedures that are a crucial prerequisite to reach reliable and reproducible results. Six paradigmatic applications of targeted therapy, for which pathological diagnosis plays a fundamental role, are summarized. Traditional and next-generation sequencing are also addressed from the pathologist&#39;s perspective as well as the importance pathologists have in this shift to more accurate definition of disease risk and prognostication of therapy response in the personalized medicine era.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Connexin43 and Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/80608</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Recently, the treatment and prevention of ischemic cardiomyopathy is one of the emerging research topics in the cardiovascular field. Gap junction is the basic structure of cardiac electrophysiology. Connexin is the basic unit of gap junctions. Connexin43(CX43) is the most abundant member of Cx family in the heart, the normal expression of Cx43 is important for heart development, electrically coupled cardiomyocytes activities and coordination of myocardial function. The connection between Cx43 and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion or reperfusion injury has become the focus of current research. </P><P> Methods: We undertook a structured search of bibliographic database for peer-reviewed research literature using a focused review question and inclusion/exclusion criteria. The quality of retrieved papers was appraised using standard tools. The characteristics of screened papers were described, and a deductive qualitative content analysis methodology was applied to analyze the interventions and findings of included studies using a conceptual framework. </P><P> Results: Twenty-one papers were included in the review, eight papers outlined the relationship of Cx43 and reperfusion arrhythmias. Eight papers pointed out the effect on the infarct size of Cx43. </P><P> Conclusion: The findings of this review confirm that Cx43 is the most abundant member of Cx family in the heart and is vital for myocardial protection during ischemia/reperfusion process and for ischemia/reperfusion injury. Many of its mechanism are still not very clear and require future research in the future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Aurora Kinase Inhibitors in Head and Neck Cancer]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/87896</link><description><![CDATA[Aurora kinases are a group of serine/threonine kinases responsible for the regulation of mitosis. In recent years, with the increase in Aurora kinase-related research, the important role of Aurora kinases in tumorigenesis has been gradually recognized. Aurora kinases have been regarded as a new target for cancer therapy, resulting in the development of Aurora kinase inhibitors. The study and application of these small-molecule inhibitors, especially in combination with chemotherapy drugs, represent a new direction in cancer treatment. This paper reviews studies on Aurora kinases from recent years, including studies of their biological function, their relationship with tumor progression, and their inhibitors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The PI3K Pathway at the Crossroads of Cancer and the Immune System: Strategies for Next Generation Immunotherapy Combinations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/86018</link><description><![CDATA[Immunotherapy has led to a paradigm shift in the treatment of some malignancies, providing long-term, durable responses for a subset of patients with advanced cancers. Increasingly, research has identified links between the immune system and critical oncogenic growth factor pathways. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT-mTOR cascade is frequently hyperactivated in cancer, and plays an integral role in many cellular processes including tumour growth and survival and can underlie resistance to therapies. </P><P> In this review, we first summarize two key learnings from the initial studies of inhibitors of this pathway, including the profile of immune-related adverse events such as colitis, transaminitis and pneumonitis and the increased incidence of infections with the majority of agents that target the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway. We then discuss recent advances in our understanding of the role of this pathway in the tumour micro-environment, and in the regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses, and propose synergistic combination strategies with PI3K-network inhibitors and cancer immunotherapy.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet Our Associate Editor]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/89543</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Radiopharmaceuticals Labelled with Copper Radionuclides: Clinical Results in Human Beings]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/87339</link><description><![CDATA[Background: Positron emission tomography (PET) is an instrumental diagnostic modality developed around the positron-emitting radioisotopes of biologically important elements such as carbon, oxygen and nitrogen (11C, 15O, 13N). Among longer-lived PET radionuclides, 18F is by far the most commonly used radiotracer, extensively used for tumour imaging with FDG ([18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose) and also frequently investigated in the development of novel radiopharmaceuticals. Many other positron- emitting radionuclides with higher atomic numbers and longer half-lives have been investigated for both imaging and therapeutic purposes, including the halogens (124I, 120I, 76Br) and a number of metal radionuclides. The radio-copper has attracted considerable attention, because they include isotopes which, due to their emission properties, offer themselves as agents of both diagnostic imaging (60Cu, 61Cu, 62Cu, 64Cu) and in vivo targeted radiation therapy (64Cu and 67Cu). </P><P> Objectives: Although the use of this radionuclide has grown exponentially over the last decade, academic institutions have largely been responsible for its production and for the development of the vast majority of radiopharmaceutical based on these nuclides. A number of compounds labelled with Cuisotopes have been proposed, not only for imaging purposes but also for therapy. The aim of the present paper is to provide an overview on the clinical results obtained in human beings with copper radionuclides. </P><P> Conclusion: Several preliminary studies and clinical trials evaluated the potential clinical role of copper radioisotopes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. 64Cu seems to be the most suitable radioisotope for future clinical applications due to its longer half-life (12.7 h) and its commercial availability. Future clinical applications of copper radioisotopes could be enhanced by the possibility of radioligand therapy with the beta-emitting 67Cu, creating a new “theranostics pair”.]]></description> </item></channel></rss>