Postępy Higieny i Medycyny Doświadczalnej Feed

Effect of platelet-rich plasma combined with hyaluronic acid and collagen supplementation on tissue healing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionThis study aims to compare the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) alone versus PRP combined with hyaluronic acid and collagen supplements in promoting healing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. Materials and MethodsData from 140 patients undergoing arthroscopic ACL reconstruction (January 2022–January 2024) were analyzed. Participants were divided into a PRP group (n=70) and a combination group (PRP + hyaluronic acid + collagen, n=70). Both groups received their respective treatments during surgery and followed a standardized rehabilitation regimen. Outpatient follow-ups occurred at 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12 months post-surgery. Objective assessments included Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Lysholm, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. Thigh and calf circumferences were measured preoperatively and on postoperative day 3. MRI scans at 12 months assessed tendon-to-bone healing. ResultsAt the 12-month follow-up, the combination group showed significantly greater improvements in Lysholm and IKDC scores, and lower VAS scores compared to the PRP group at all postoperative time points (p < 0.05). The combination group also exhibited significantly smaller increases in thigh and calf circumference postoperatively (p < 0.05), indicating less swelling. MRI results revealed significantly better tendon–bone healing grades in the combination group (p < 0.05). No complications were reported in either group. ConclusionsPRP combined with hyaluronic acid and collagen significantly enhances knee function recovery, reduces pain and swelling, and promotes tendon–bone healing after ACL reconstruction compared to PRP alone.

Determinants of obesity stigma in the 21st century

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Obesity stigma is a pervasive social issue with substantial psychological, social, and economic consequences. This paper reviews the impact of weight-based discrimination across five key demographic factors: income, age, education, sex, and race. The findings indicate that individuals with lower socioeconomic status face heightened levels of stigma, particularly within healthcare settings. Age-related differences show that younger individuals often experience more intense social pressure than adults. Lower educational attainment is associated with greater internalized stigma and increased psychological distress. Sex-based disparities reveal that women and men experience obesity stigma in different contexts, while racial differences shape distinct experiences of stigma, with Black, Hispanic, and other racial groups facing unique challenges. Addressing obesity stigma requires a multifaceted approach, including education for healthcare providers and targeted public health campaigns. A deeper understanding of these determinants can guide policy development, reduce bias, and promote equitable healthcare for individuals living with obesity.

Modern cosmetology procedures available for acne

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder. Minor acne lesions that do not require dermatological intervention can be treated in a cosmetologist's salon. Standard cosmetic-based anti-acne procedures can be enhanced by specialized devices that facilitate the delivery of cosmetic active ingredients into the skin. The action of these devices may involve lasers, LEDs, and hydrogen purification. To date, these methods have not been compared in light of the available literature. Therefore, the purpose of this article was to present devices that assist in alleviating acne, along with a comparison of their practical applicability in dermatologists' and cosmetologists' salons.

A tendency to maintain a stable level of sulfane sulfur under various environmental or culture conditions

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Sulfur is present in human and animal tissues, in organic compounds (such as sulfur amino acids), and inorganic compounds (such as hydrogen sulfide). Hydrogen sulfide can be sourced from a pool of compounds containing sulfane sulfur. The presence of sulfane sulfur has been observed, over the years in human and animal tissues, as well as cell cultures. The cold cyanolysis method (Wood's method), determined sulfane sulfur contents ranged from 60 to 400 nmol per mg of protein. In amphibians, the level of sulfane sulfur changes seasonally. No gender differences relating to sulfane sulfur levels were found in mice. External factors such as cyanide, menadione (induces oxidative stress), heavy metal ions, or changes in the level of L-cysteine and other sulfur compounds which result from mutations of genes for enzymes involved in the transformation of these compounds, temporarily affect the level of sulfane sulfur, which, however, returns to the control level, which illustrates the adaptation to changed conditions and the tendency to maintain the level of sulfane sulfur. This points to the essential importance of sulfane sulfur for living organisms.

To assess the efficacy and safety of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant rivaroxaban in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) such as rivaroxaban offer potential advantages over warfarin in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). However, long-term real-world data evaluating their efficacy and safety, particularly in high-risk subgroups, remain limited. Materials and Methods This prospective observational cohort study enrolled 140 patients with newly diagnosed NVAF receiving rivaroxaban (20 mg daily or 15 mg daily in cases of renal impairment) for stroke prevention. Clinical, biochemical, and echocardiographic parameters were collected at baseline and monitored over 12 months. Primary efficacy and safety endpoints included stroke/systemic embolism and major bleeding (ISTH criteria), respectively. Secondary endpoints included TIA, cardiovascular hospitalization/mortality, non-major bleeding, renal/hepatic dysfunction, and treatment discontinuation. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to evaluate outcomes and predictors. Results Stroke and systemic embolism occurred in 3.57% and 0.71% of patients, respectively. Major bleeding occurred in 5.71%, including gastrointestinal (2.86%) and intracranial (1.43%) events. Clinically relevant non-major bleeding and minor bleeding were reported in 8.57% and 12.86% of patients, respectively. Treatment was discontinued in 10% due to adverse events, primarily bleeding and renal function deterioration. Regression analysis identified age, CHA2DS2-VASc, HAS-BLED score, renal impairment, low hemoglobin, and prior stroke/TIA as independent predictors of adverse outcomes. Conclusions Rivaroxaban demonstrated favorable efficacy and acceptable safety in NVAF patients, including elderly and comorbid populations. Bleeding and renal dysfunction were notable risks. Close monitoring and individualized risk stratification remain essential for optimizing anticoagulation outcomes in real-world clinical practice.

Analysis of mercury content in fish and its impact on human health in the context of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid (DHA, EPA) supplementation derived from fish oil

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Fish oils, such as cod liver oil or shark liver oil, are a valuable source of essential omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids (EFAs) (mainly DHA and EPA) and vitamins A and D, which are crucial for the proper functioning of the body, including neurological development, vision and the cardiovascular system. Due to the low consumption of fish in Poland, dietary supplements containing these oils have gained popularity. However, a significant problem is the potential contamination of fish and fish products with heavy metals, especially mercury. Mercury, mainly in the form of methylmercury, accumulates in aquatic organisms, especially in predatory and long-lived fish, due to environmental pollution. Methylmercury is highly toxic. It penetrates the blood-brain and blood-placenta barriers, posing a risk of neurotoxicity, developmental problems and a negative impact on the circulatory, immune, urinary and hormonal systems. The applicable regulations (e.g. Commission Regulation (EC) No. 629/2008, ICH Q3D guidelines) specify permissible levels of mercury in food, dietary supplements and medicinal products, with the standards for supplements being more stringent than for fish meat. Studies have shown that commercially available fish oil supplements usually contain mercury in amounts below the established limits, making them safe for consumption. Nevertheless, due to the dynamic development of the market and the lack of mandatory control before placing on the market, the need for constant quality monitoring and possible tightening of legal requirements for dietary supplements is postulated.

Revitalizing decentralized tuberculosis diagnosis in primary laboratories: post-COVID-19 challenges and strategic innovations

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global public health challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings, where centralized diagnostic systems may be constrained by logistical delays, infrastructure gaps, and limited workforce capacity. In recent years, decentralized diagnostic approaches have emerged as promising alternatives to improve access, timeliness, and patient-centered care. This narrative review examines the evolving landscape of decentralized TB diagnostics in primary laboratories, especially in the post-COVID-19 era, where pandemic-related investments in health infrastructure and digital systems have created new opportunities for diagnostic reform. We identify and synthesize five persistent implementation challenges — quality assurance, human resource limitations, infrastructural deficits, financial sustainability, and community engagement — as well as several key enablers, including portable molecular technologies, digital health platforms, and policy-linked diagnostic networks. This review highlights the importance of embedding decentralized models into national TB programs, supported by regulatory frameworks, sustainable financing, and cross-sector collaboration. Accelerating the institutionalization of decentralized diagnostics is essential to achieving diagnostic equity and advancing TB elimination goals in high-burden countries.

Association between the severity of OSAHS patients and serum PCSK9 levels

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a prevalent sleep and respiratory disorder with links to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions. The proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) is closely associated with these conditions. This study aims to assess serum PCSK9 levels in OSAHS patients and their correlation with disease severity. It aims to establish the significance of serum PCSK9 levels as a predictive indicator for OSAHS onset, progression, and severity. Materials and Methods 182 participants without regular OSAHS medication were enrolled from a local hospital sleep clinic. Based on polysomnography and the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), participants were categorized into mild, moderate, and severe OSAHS groups. Serum PCSK9 concentrations were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Comparative analyses were conducted using OSAHS severity, and multivariate logistic regression evaluated the relationship between serum PCSK9 levels and OSAHS severity. Results A significant positive association was found between serum PCSK9 levels and OSAHS severity (p < 0.001). Individuals with more severe OSAHS had higher serum PCSK9 levels, with this association remaining statistically significant after adjusting for confounders (p < 0.001). ROC curve analysis showed a good predictive value for OSAHS onset, progression, and severity, with an area under the curve of 0.81 (p < 0.001). Conclusions This study demonstrates that OSAHS affects serum PCSK9 levels, with severity positively linked to PCSK9 levels. Serum PCSK9 levels could be a reliable biomarker for OSAHS clinical evaluation and treatment.

Circumventing vascular barriers for effective immunotherapy in brain tumors – focus on glioblastoma

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Blood vessels play a fundamental and unique role in brain tumor pathogenesis, including by mediating interactions with the peripheral immune system. Despite this intimate connection, endogenous immune surveillance and multiple modalities of immunotherapy have thus far exerted relatively little impact on disease progression and patient survival in high-grade brain tumors, such as glioblastoma (GBM). This applies to both adults and children, where complex vascular processes have emerged as possible actionable targets beyond anti-angiogenesis. Indeed, vascular responses in GBM include angiogenic, non-angiogenic (cooption, vasectasia), and angiocrine interactions mediated by soluble factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). It is still poorly understood why immune cells are excluded from the GBM tumor microenvironment and what barriers may operate at the immune-vascular interface which could be modified to improve immunotherapy outcomes. The emerging research directions include efforts to overcome the immune cell exclusion, defining molecular hallmarks of treatment susceptibility in subsets of patients, assessing different immune effectors, and rational temporal scheduling of immunotherapy administration relative to the effects of cytoreductive treatments. It is suggested that experimental insights into the interplay between vascular and immune cell compartments may serve as hypothesis-generating material for future clinical studies in GBM.

The use of endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation in the treatment of glaucoma - a literature review

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, often necessitates intervention beyond conventional therapies when intraocular pressure (IOP) cannot be adequately controlled. Endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP), a targeted cyclo-destructive procedure, has emerged as a valuable surgical option due to its ability to precisely coagulate the ciliary processes under direct visualization. This literature review explores ECP's role in contemporary glaucoma management. It examines its efficacy, safety, and integration with phacoemulsification, novel hybrid procedures, such as ECP with Kahook Dual Blade or iStent insertion and vitrectomy pars plana. Clinical studies consistently demonstrate a significant reduction in IOP and medication burden, particularly when ECP is combined with cataract surgery. While complications such as inflammation and transient IOP spikes are noted, severe adverse outcomes remain uncommon. Pediatric and refractory glaucoma cases show variable responses, emphasizing the need for individualized patient selection. Comparative studies suggest that ECP provides outcomes that are on par with or superior to traditional surgical options, with a lower complication rate and preservation of conjunctival integrity, which is advantageous for future interventions. However, the predominance of retrospective studies and limited long-term data warrant further randomized, controlled trials to establish definitive guidelines. ECP represents a promising, minimally invasive strategy in glaucoma care, particularly as part of combination procedures. Growing evidence supports its clinical utility across a wide range of patient populations.

Toxoplasmosis in patient underwent stem cell transplantation, bone marrow transplantation due to multiple myeloma

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is a widespread zoonotic disease, with an estimated 50% of the global population exposed to the pathogen. While the majority of infections remain asymptomatic, individuals with compromised immune systems, such as transplant recipients, pregnant women, and neonates, are particularly vulnerable to severe manifestations. One of the most serious complications in such populations is ocular toxoplasmosis, which can lead to inflammatory eye conditions such as retinitis and choroiditis, collectively known as chorioretinitis. Materials and Methods This case study presents a 53-year-old female patient who experienced a reactivation of ocular toxoplasmosis following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma. The patient developed inflammatory retinal changes that significantly affected her vision. Prompt diagnosis and targeted treatment markedly improved visual acuity and reduced the limitation of inflammatory lesions. Results In preventing toxoplasmosis, it may be beneficial to consider ophthalmologic examinations for patients before scheduled hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, both for recipients and donors. Conclusions The case underscores the importance of early detection and intervention in immunosuppressed patients to prevent long-term complications such as vision loss. It also highlights the value of preventive measures, including serological testing and ophthalmologic evaluation before stem cell transplantation. Such strategies are essential for identifying latent infections and mitigating the risk of reactivation in high-risk individuals.

EGF enema and EGFR monoclonal antibody injection alleviate the inflammatory bowel disease in AMO/DSS induced mice model

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that significantly impacts the gastrointestinal system. Using an AMO/DSS-induced IBD mouse model, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of epidermal growth factor (EGF) enema and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibody (mAb) injection as a treatment for IBD. Materials and Methods Twelve male C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 groups (n=3 in each group), including a control group, model group, model group treated with EGF, and model group treated with EGF and EGFR mAb. Mice were sacrificed 9 weeks after disease symptoms first appeared. Colon tissues were then analyzed for histological changes, and protein expression levels of EGFR, Ki-67, p-AKT, and p-ERK were evaluated using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Results The AOM/DSS model exhibited significant weight loss and inflammation-driven colon damage compared to baseline at week 2; however, by the end of the study, body weight showed a trend toward recovery, with no significant differences observed between the groups. Histological analysis indicated partial improvement in the EGF group, and the combination treatment reduced inflammation compared to the model group. Both treatments significantly reduced Ki67 expression, with no significant difference between the EGF and combination treatments. Additionally, both treatments led to a decrease in p-Akt and p-ERK1/2 Conclusion EGF enema and EGFR mAb injection exhibited significant therapeutic effects against AOM/DSS-induced IBD in vivo. Hence, EGFR-targeted therapy represents a promising approach for treating IBD-related complications.

Vitrectomy (25G) in a 69-year-old patient with vitreomacular traction syndrome in diabetic retinopathy after branch retinal vein occlusion

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Vitreomacular traction (VMT) syndrome occurs when posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) induces traction on the macula. This traction can lead to the development of intraretinal pseudocysts and detachment of the fovea from the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). VMT could be isolated or associated with other macular abnormalities such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vein occlusion (RVO), and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Materials and Methods A 69-year-old patient reported to the Ophthalmology Clinic due to a decline in his vision in the left eye. His medical history included a 30-year duration of diabetes, managed with insulin therapy for the past 5 years, as well as an episode of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). At admission, the left eye’s visual acuity (VA) was 0.02, with an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 20 mmHg. After evaluation and diagnostic tests, the patient was qualified for pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). The procedure involved applying a dye, peeling the epiretinal membrane (ERM), internal limiting membrane (ILM), and endotamponade with SF6 gas. Results The surgery went without any complications. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed the release of macular traction and the restoration of normal morphology of the macula. Ten days after the procedure, a follow-up examination showed an improvement in VA in the left eye to 0.3, with an IOP of 16 mmHg. Conclusions PPV with removal of the ERM and ILM, combined with SF6 gas tamponade, is an effective treatment for patients with vitreomacular traction syndrome complicated by diabetic retinopathy and BRVO.

Dysbiosis questionnaire as a tool for an in-depth medical interview in the field of intestinal microbiota disorders in head and neck cancer patients

Thu, 29 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction In-depth information on intestinal disorders and their contributing factors is rarely collected in the routine medical history of patients with head and neck diseases, in this number in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Intestinal dysbiosis (ID) is an important problem for patients starting HNSCC treatment, but there is no tool for a quick and unambiguous diagnosis and confirmation with objective tests. The aim is to design the tool for an in-depth medical interview in the field of intestinal microbiota disorders, namely the Dysbiosis Questionnaire. Materials and Methods A prospective study comparing 188 consecutive HNC patients and an age-matched group of 76 healthy individuals as to the frequency of intestinal ailments. The questionnaire was assessed for the frequency of individual responses and the variables with the highest degree of correlation with intestinal ailments were selected. Results While some lifestyle and medical factors, such as antibiotic use and physical activity, differ significantly among individuals with dysbiosis between HNC patients and the control group, other variables, including birth history, chronic diseases, and dietary habits, do not show statistically significant differences. Conclusions A mosaic of factors turns out to have an impact on the link with dysbiosis in HNC patients. The proposed Dysbiosis Questionnaire identifies these factors accurately and may be helpful in a quick selection of prone individuals.

Use of PPV (23G) in a 55-year-old patient with high myopia 23 days after phacoemulsification complicated by suprachoroidal hemorrhage

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SCH) is a severe complication that can arise both during and after ophthalmic procedures. The occurrence rate during cataract phacoemulsification surgery ranges from 0.03% to 0.13%. This condition is caused by damage to the posterior long or short ciliary artery, leading to blood accumulation in the area between the choroid and sclera. Risk factors for SCH include intraocular surgeries, older age, glaucoma, and myopia. Materials and Methods A 55-year-old female patient presented to the Ophthalmology Outpatient Clinic with SCH and hemorrhagic retinal detachment of the left eye (OS) resulting from phacoemulsification cataract surgery with high degenerative myopia. The visual acuity (VA) of the OS before vitrectomy (PPV) was at 0.001, and the intraocular pressure (IOP) in the OS was 20 mmHg. After the additional examinations, the patient was qualified for PPV. PPV was performed from a posterior access, mAndo iridotomy, decalin was administered, subretinal and subconjunctival blood was partially evacuated, retinal endolaser was performed, decalin was removed, and OS silicone oil endotamponade was performed. Results At the first follow-up 7 days after PPV, the VA of the OS was 0.06, and the IOP value in the OS was 14 mmHg. B-projection ultrasound showed dense silicone oil echoes, and the retina appeared adherent. At follow-up after 1 and 3 months, VA was at 0.1 and 0.7 respectively, and IOP in the OS was 14 mmHg. Conclusions Despite the difficulties associated with high myopia and extensive SCH, the PPV procedure proved to be extremely effective for achieving satisfactory visual acuity and restoring correct anatomical conditions.

Prevention and treatment of excessive arterial stiffness

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Arterial stiffness affecting mainly the aorta and its large branches is currently the subject of numerous studies. Over the years, such arterial stiffness inevitably deepens. Another factor affecting the arterial stiffness is hypertension. Increased arterial stiffness, however, may precede the development of hypertension. The severity of arterial stiffness is more accurate in assessing the risk of complications and death than in knowing the value of blood pressure alone. A number of studies have identified other factors (except age and hypertension) that have a significant impact on the progression of stiffness. These include inflammation, oxidative stress, increased concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, uric acid, and homocysteine in the blood serum. Arterial stiffness occurs especially quickly in patients with renal failure, as well as in those with diabetes and obesity. Recently, a number of authors have drawn attention to the rapid progression of stiffness in some young people, which Nilsson called early vascular aging (EVA). This paper discusses non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments that can reduce or at least slow down the progression of vascular stiffness measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV). Diets, especially those that reduce the level of overweight in obese people, as well as smoking cessation have a beneficial effect on inhibiting the development of arterial stiffness. Increased exercise plays a major role in inhibiting arterial stiffness progression. Among the pharmacological treatments, antihypertensive drugs play a leading role. All antihypertensive drugs, although to a different extent, inhibit the progression of stiffness. The paper also discusses why patients with atrial fibrillation should use new anticoagulants instead of warfarin.

The assessment of parameters of convalescent plasma and their impact on COVID-19 symptoms

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Background The rapid spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, known as COVID-19, has been a dreadful public health problem with no specific treatment strategy. Using convalescent plasma (CP) with neutralizing antibodies has been analyzed as a potential strategy to reduce mortality and the severity of illness. Materials and Methods Our open-label, multi-center, single-arm trial aimed to evaluate the effects of CP transfusion and the risk factors for mortality following CP among 108 COVID-19-infected patients. Each patient was transfused with 200 mL of CP with a confirmed neutralization activity from 44 recovered donors. The efficacy of COVID-19 treatment was defined as the desired change in clinical parameters after CP administration. Results Our results showed that leukocyte counts increased significantly after CP transfusion (p < 0.001), and hemoglobin levels improved over time (p = 0.006). In contrast, inflammation indicators, including C-reactive protein (CRP) or procalcitonin, decreased after CP transfusion (p < 0.001). Post hoc analysis revealed significant improvements in several serological parameters, including hematocrit, lymphocytes, and platelet counts, between baseline (V0) and 28 days post-CP transfusion (V3). High-titer IgA, IgM, and IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies persisted during 28 days of CP transfusion (p < 0.001). Conclusions Overall, these findings contribute to optimizing COVID-19 treatment approaches, providing valuable information on the effectiveness of convalescent plasma therapy and its associated factors.

A narrative review on tumor microenvironment in malignant tumors

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The environment in which cancer cells can be functionally shaped is called the tumor microenvironment (TME). TME plays a complex role in cancer biology and treatment resistance. During the initiation and progression of cancer, not only is the single transformed cell growing and multiplying, but its environment is also developing. TME promotes the growth and expansion of cancer cells and the metastasis process. Many cell types, such as inflammation-associated cells, fibroblasts, nerve cells, and vascular endothelial cells, are involved in TME. Molecules such as cytokines and chemokines are released by these cells. Utilizing these molecules, the growth signals in cancer cells are directly activated, leading to tumor growth. This results in the reprogramming of cells surrounding the tumor. Continuous interactions between tumor cells and TME play a decisive role in tumor induction, growth, metastasis, and reply to treatments. Understanding the dynamics of the tumor microenvironment is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving cancer treatment outcomes. This review aims to review the available information on different aspects of TME in different types of cancer. Understanding of the TME has underscored its complex role in cancer biology and therapy resistance. Targeting components of TME holds promise for developing more effective cancer treatments in the future.

Efficacy of medicinal plants from Algeria on cell proliferation: Involvement of caspases 3/7 and cell cycle disorder

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Cancer is the main cause of mortality worldwide, and finding effective treatments with fewer side effects is crucial. Medicinal plants offer significant potential in this area. They contain bioactive compounds that may have antitumor effects. The aim of this study is to assess the cytotoxicity of various medicinal plants towards several cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods Antiproliferative activity of extracts from Crataegus monogyna, Rhamnus alaternus, Lavandula dentata, Aristolochia baetica, Erica arborea, Cistus lanifedus on cell lines: A-498 (kidney carcinoma), HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma), PLC/PRF/5 (hepatoma), MDA-MB-231 (breast adenocarcinoma), MV-4-11 (biphenotypic B myelomonocytic leukemia), and one non-tumorigenic murine fibroblast BALB/3T3 by colorimetric methods using Sulforhodamine B (SRB) and tetrazolium salt (MTT), enzyme caspases 3/7 activity, and cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry. Statistical analysis was performed by the Shapiro–Wilk and Brown–Forsythe tests ensured normality and variance equality, respectively, followed by one-way ANOVA (Dunnett’s and Tukey’s tests) for caspase 3/7 and two-way ANOVA (Dunnett’s test) for cell cycle analysis. Results Aristolochia baetica (Aristolochiaceae) and Lavandula dentata (Lamiaceae) extracts have significant antiproliferative properties with caspase 3/7-independent activity which implies that the cytotoxicity of this extracts induces cell death through non-apoptotic mechanisms. Extracts from lavender and aristolochia exhibit antiproliferative effects by disrupting cell cycle progression, leading to the accumulation of dead cells in the sub-G1 phase. Conclusion These two species show promising therapeutic potential as antiproliferative agents, operating through mechanisms distinct from those of conventional chemotherapeutic agents.

Pharmacological targeting of PD-L1/PD-1 signaling in gynecological cancers

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT

PD-L1/PD-1 signaling is a theme of increasingly detailed research over the past two decades that has provided impetus for phenomenal breakthroughs in our understanding of their fundamental biology and pathogenesis. There is a progressive refinement in our understanding of the pivotal relevance of the pharmacologically tractable PD-L1/PD-1 pathway. In this mini-review, we have sketched a rapidly developing landscape related to the role of PD-L1/PD-1 signaling inhibitors in the prevention of carcinogenesis and metastasis. Non-coding RNA mediated regulation of PD-L1/PD-1 cascade is also an exciting facet of molecular immunology. Long non-coding RNAs have been shown to sponge away microRNAs and potentiate the expression of PD-L1 and/or PD-1, thus leading to an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Accordingly, pharmacological targeting of PD-L1/PD-1 signaling can be exploited to reshape the tumor microenvironment and to reap clinically valuable benefits.