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Acta Dermatovenerologica Alpina,... Jun 2024Melasma, a chronic acquired skin pigmentation disorder, is characterized by the presence of irregular-edged brown to gray-brown patches with a symmetrical distribution,... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
The effectiveness and safety of 3% tranexamic acid cream vs. 4% hydroquinone cream for mixed-type melasma in skin of color: a double-blind, split-face, randomized controlled trial.
INTRODUCTION
Melasma, a chronic acquired skin pigmentation disorder, is characterized by the presence of irregular-edged brown to gray-brown patches with a symmetrical distribution, primarily on sun-exposed areas such as the face. Topical hydroquinone (HQ) is the gold standard for melasma treatment but has numerous side effects. This study assesses the effectiveness of topical tranexamic acid (TA) as an alternative for melasma treatment.
METHODS
In a double-blind, split-face, randomized controlled trial involving 20 subjects, the effectiveness of 3% TA versus 4% HQ cream was evaluated over 8 weeks. The modified melasma area and severity index (mMASI), melanin index, erythema index, and side effects were assessed. Subjective improvement was measured using the patient global assessment (PtGA).
RESULTS
A significant decline in the mMASI score was observed at weeks 4 and 8 in both groups compared to baseline. There were no statistically significant differences in PtGA scores between the 3% TA group and the 4% HQ group.
CONCLUSIONS
Topical 3% TA is as effective and safe as 4% HQ for treating melasma in the Indonesian population, with potential advantages in terms of side-effect profiles.
Topics: Humans; Melanosis; Double-Blind Method; Hydroquinones; Tranexamic Acid; Female; Adult; Middle Aged; Treatment Outcome; Male; Skin Cream; Skin Pigmentation; Administration, Cutaneous; Severity of Illness Index
PubMed: 38918942
DOI: No ID Found -
BMC Cardiovascular Disorders Jun 2024Radiotherapy is a primary local treatment for tumors, yet it may lead to complications such as radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD). Currently, there is no...
BACKGROUND
Radiotherapy is a primary local treatment for tumors, yet it may lead to complications such as radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD). Currently, there is no standardized approach for preventing RIHD. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) is reported to have cardio-protection effects, while its role in radiation-induced myocardial injury is unknown. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the radioprotective effect of dexmedetomidine in X-ray radiation-treated mice.
METHODS
18 male mice were randomized into 3 groups: control, 16 Gy, and 16 Gy + Dex. The 16 Gy group received a single dose of 16 Gy X-ray radiation. The 16 Gy + Dex group was pretreated with dexmedetomidine (30 µg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) 30 min before X-ray radiation. The control group was treated with saline and did not receive X-ray radiation. Myocardial tissues were collected 16 weeks after X-ray radiation. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed for histopathological examination. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling staining was performed to assess the state of apoptotic cells. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed to examine the expression of CD34 molecule and von Willebrand factor. Besides, western blot assay was employed for the detection of apoptosis-related proteins (BCL2 apoptosis regulator and BCL2-associated X) as well as autophagy-related proteins (microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3, beclin 1, and sequestosome 1).
RESULTS
The findings demonstrated that 16 Gy X-ray radiation resulted in significant changes in myocardial tissues, increased myocardial apoptosis, and activated autophagy. Pretreatment with dexmedetomidine significantly protects mice against 16 Gy X-ray radiation-induced myocardial injury by inhibiting apoptosis and autophagy.
CONCLUSION
In summary, our study confirmed the radioprotective effect of dexmedetomidine in mitigating cardiomyocyte apoptosis and autophagy induced by 16 Gy X-ray radiation.
Topics: Animals; Autophagy; Myocytes, Cardiac; Apoptosis; Male; Dexmedetomidine; Radiation Injuries, Experimental; Radiation-Protective Agents; Disease Models, Animal; Signal Transduction; Mice; Autophagy-Related Proteins; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
PubMed: 38918713
DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03988-8 -
World Journal of Microbiology &... Jun 2024Sesquiterpenes and tetraterpenes are classes of plant-derived natural products with antineoplastic effects. While plant extraction of the sesquiterpene, germacrene A,... (Review)
Review
Sesquiterpenes and tetraterpenes are classes of plant-derived natural products with antineoplastic effects. While plant extraction of the sesquiterpene, germacrene A, and the tetraterpene, lycopene suffers supply chain deficits and poor yields, chemical synthesis has difficulties in separating stereoisomers. This review highlights cutting-edge developments in producing germacrene A and lycopene from microbial cell factories. We then summarize the antineoplastic properties of β-elemene (a thermal product from germacrene A), sesquiterpene lactones (metabolic products from germacrene A), and lycopene. We also elaborate on strategies to optimize microbial-based germacrene A and lycopene production.
Topics: Lycopene; Sesquiterpenes, Germacrane; Antineoplastic Agents; Humans; Carotenoids; Sesquiterpenes; Biosynthetic Pathways
PubMed: 38916754
DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04057-0 -
The Journal of Experimental Biology Jun 2024Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae are used to upcycle biowaste into insect biomass for animal feed. Previous research on black soldier fly has explored the...
Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae are used to upcycle biowaste into insect biomass for animal feed. Previous research on black soldier fly has explored the assimilation of dietary fatty acids (FAs), but endogenous FA synthesis and modification remain comparatively unexplored. This study presents a 1H/2H-NMR methodology for measuring lipid synthesis in black soldier fly larvae using diluted deuterated water (2H2O) as a stable isotopic tracer delivered through the feeding media. This approach was validated by measuring 2H incorporation into the larvae's body water and consequent labelling of FA esterified into triacylglycerols. A 5% 2H enrichment in the body water, adequate to label the FA, is achieved after 24 h in a substrate with 10% 2H2O. A standard feeding trial using an invasive macroalgae was designed to test this method, revealing de novo lipogenesis was lower in larvae fed with macroalgae, probably related to the poor nutritional value of the diet.
Topics: Animals; Larva; Seaweed; Deuterium Oxide; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; Animal Feed; Fatty Acids; Lipids; Diptera; Simuliidae; Diet
PubMed: 38916067
DOI: 10.1242/jeb.247941 -
Sheng Wu Gong Cheng Xue Bao = Chinese... Jun 2024α-arbutin has important applications in cosmetics and medicine. However, the extraction yield from plant tissues is relatively low, which restricts its application...
α-arbutin has important applications in cosmetics and medicine. However, the extraction yield from plant tissues is relatively low, which restricts its application value. In this study, we investigated the synthesis of α-arbutin using maltodextrin as the donor and hydroquinone as the acceptor, using a cyclodextrin glucosyltransferase (CGTase) from . We performed site-saturated and site-directed mutagenesis on CGTase. The activity of the variant CGTase-F235G-N166H was 3.48 times higher than that of the wild type. Moreover, we achieved a conversion rate of 63% by optimizing the reaction pH, temperature, and hydroquinone addition amount. Overall, this study successfully constructed a strain with improved conversion rate for the synthetic production of α-arbutin and hydroquinone. These findings have significant implications for reducing the industrial production cost of α-arbutin and enhancing the conversion rate of the product.
Topics: Glucosyltransferases; Arbutin; Hydroquinones; Mutagenesis, Site-Directed; Polysaccharides
PubMed: 38914495
DOI: 10.13345/j.cjb.230693 -
International Journal of Nanomedicine 2024Combination therapy offers superior therapeutic results compared to monotherapy. However, the outcomes of combination therapy often fall short of expectations, mainly...
BACKGROUND
Combination therapy offers superior therapeutic results compared to monotherapy. However, the outcomes of combination therapy often fall short of expectations, mainly because of increased toxicity from drug interactions and challenges in achieving the desired spatial and temporal distribution of drug delivery. Optimizing synergistic drug combination ratios to ensure uniform targeting and distribution across space and time, particularly in vivo, is a significant challenge. In this study, cRGD-coated liposomes encapsulating optimized synergistic cepharanthine (CEP; a chemotherapy drug) and IR783 (a phototherapy agent) were developed for combined chemotherapy and photothermal therapy in vitro and in vivo.
METHODS
An MTT assay was used to evaluate the combination index of CEP and IR783 in five cell lines. The cRGD-encapsulated liposomes were prepared via thin-film hydration, and unencapsulated liposomes served as controls for the loading of CEP and IR783. Fluorescence and photothermal imaging were used to assess the efficacy of CEP and IR783 encapsulated in liposomes at an optimal synergistic ratio, both in vitro and in vivo.
RESULTS
The combination indices of CEP and IR783 were determined in five cell lines. As a proof-of-concept, the optimal synergistic ratio (1:2) of CEP to IR783 in 4T1 cells was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The average diameter of the liposomes was approximately 100 nm. The liposomes effectively retained the encapsulated CEP and IR783 in vitro at the optimal synergistic molar ratio for over 7 d. In vivo fluorescence imaging revealed that the fluorescence signal from cRGD-CEP-IR783-Lip was detectable at the tumor site at 4 h post-injection and peaked at 8 h. In vivo photothermal imaging of tumor-bearing mice indicated an increase in tumor temperature by 32°C within 200 s. Concurrently, cRGD-CEP-IR783-Lip demonstrated a significant therapeutic effect and robust biosafety in the in vivo antitumor experiments.
CONCLUSION
The combination indices of CEP and IR783 were successfully determined in vitro in five cell lines. The cRGD-coated liposomes encapsulated CEP and IR783 at an optimal synergistic ratio, exhibiting enhanced antitumor effects and targeting upon application in vitro and in vivo. This study presents a novel concept and establishes a research framework for synergistic chemotherapy and phototherapy treatment.
Topics: Liposomes; Animals; Cell Line, Tumor; Humans; Female; Mice; Indoles; Photothermal Therapy; Benzylisoquinolines; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Peptides, Cyclic; Drug Synergism; Antineoplastic Agents; Combined Modality Therapy; Cell Survival; Drug Delivery Systems; Benzodioxoles
PubMed: 38911506
DOI: 10.2147/IJN.S457008 -
International Ophthalmology Clinics Jul 2024The integration of skincare into medical practice can enhance patient care. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the skin is the foundation for effective skincare... (Review)
Review
The integration of skincare into medical practice can enhance patient care. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the skin is the foundation for effective skincare interventions. Genetic and inflammatory conditions play a significant role in aesthetic skin physiology. There are key active ingredients that are pivotal in addressing various skin concerns. Sunscreens provide crucial protection against UV radiation, while pigment control agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and arbutin target the melanin pathway. Exfoliating agents and skin turnover enhancers such as retinoids and hydroxy acids promote skin renewal and rejuvenation. In addition, ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, antioxidants, peptides, and botanicals contribute to improving skin quality. Adding skincare to medical practice requires careful product selection, patient education, and marketing strategies.
Topics: Humans; Skin Care; Sunscreening Agents; Skin Aging; Skin Diseases; Dermatologic Agents
PubMed: 38910501
DOI: 10.1097/IIO.0000000000000525 -
BMC Oral Health Jun 2024Dental pathogens play a crucial role in oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections, and recent research suggests a link between these...
BACKGROUND
Dental pathogens play a crucial role in oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections, and recent research suggests a link between these pathogens and oral cancer initiation and progression. Innovative therapeutic approaches are needed due to antibiotic resistance concerns and treatment limitations.
METHODS
We synthesized and analyzed piperine-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-PIP NPs) using UV spectroscopy, SEM, XRD, FTIR, and EDAX. Antioxidant and antimicrobial effectiveness were evaluated through DPPH, ABTS, and MIC assays, while the anticancer properties were assessed on KB oral squamous carcinoma cells.
RESULTS
ZnO-PIP NPs exhibited significant antioxidant activity and a MIC of 50 µg/mL against dental pathogens, indicating strong antimicrobial properties. Interaction analysis revealed high binding affinity with dental pathogens. ZnO-PIP NPs showed dose-dependent anticancer activity on KB cells, upregulating apoptotic genes BCL2, BAX, and P53.
CONCLUSIONS
This approach offers a multifaceted solution to combatting both oral infections and cancer, showcasing their potential for significant advancement in oral healthcare. It is essential to acknowledge potential limitations and challenges associated with the use of ZnO NPs in clinical applications. These may include concerns regarding nanoparticle toxicity, biocompatibility, and long-term safety. Further research and rigorous testing are warranted to address these issues and ensure the safe and effective translation of ZnO-PIP NPs into clinical practice.
Topics: Zinc Oxide; Humans; Piperidines; Apoptosis; Alkaloids; Benzodioxoles; Mouth Neoplasms; bcl-2-Associated X Protein; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2; Tumor Suppressor Protein p53; Biofilms; Polyunsaturated Alkamides; Nanoparticles; Antioxidants; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Metal Nanoparticles; Antineoplastic Agents; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; X-Ray Diffraction; Cell Line, Tumor; KB Cells
PubMed: 38907185
DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04399-z -
Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 2024Throughout the past several centuries, herbal constituents have been the subject of scientific interest and the latest research into their therapeutic potential is... (Review)
Review
Throughout the past several centuries, herbal constituents have been the subject of scientific interest and the latest research into their therapeutic potential is underway. Genistein is a soy-derived isoflavone found in huge amounts in soy, along with the plants of the Fabaceae family. Scientific studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of genistein on various health conditions. Genistein presents a broad range of pharmacological activities, including anticancer, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antiulcer, anti-diabetic, wound healing, anti-bacterial, antiviral, skin, and radioprotective effects. However, the hydrophobic nature of genistein results in constrained absorption and restricts its therapeutic potential. In this review, the number of nanocarriers for genistein delivery has been explored, such as polymeric nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, transferosomes, and nanoemulsions and nanofibers. These nano-formulations of genistein have been utilized as a potential strategy for various disorders, employing a variety of , and models and various administration routes. This review concluded that genistein is a potential therapeutic agent for treating various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disorders, obesity, diabetes, ulcers, etc., when formulated in suitable nanocarriers.
Topics: Genistein; Humans; Animals; Nanoparticles; Nanotechnology; Drug Carriers; Drug Delivery Systems; Neoplasms
PubMed: 38902930
DOI: 10.2174/0113892010265344230919170611 -
Scientific Reports Jun 2024Acetylcholine (ACh) plays a pivotal role as a neurotransmitter, influencing nerve cell communication and overall nervous system health. Imbalances in ACh levels are...
Acetylcholine (ACh) plays a pivotal role as a neurotransmitter, influencing nerve cell communication and overall nervous system health. Imbalances in ACh levels are linked to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. This study focused on developing electrochemical sensors for ACh detection, utilizing graphene oxide (GO) and a composite of reduced graphene oxide and zinc oxide (rGO/ZnO). The synthesis involved modified Hummers' and hydrothermal methods, unveiling the formation of rGO through deoxygenation and the integration of nano-sized ZnO particles onto rGO, as demonstrated by XPS and TEM. EIS analysis also revealed the enhancement of electron transfer efficiency in rGO/ZnO. Cyclic voltammograms of the electrode, comprising the rGO/ZnO composite in ACh solutions, demonstrated prominent oxidation and reduction reactions. Notably, the composite exhibited promise for ACh detection due to its sensitivity, low detection threshold, reusability, and selectivity against interfering compounds, specifically glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid. The unique properties of rGO, such as high specific surface area and electron mobility, coupled with ZnO's stability and catalytic efficiency, contributed to the composite's potential in electrochemical sensor applications. This research, emphasizing the synthesis, fabrication, and characterization of the rGO/ZnO composite, established itself as a reliable platform for detecting the acetylcholine neurotransmitter.
Topics: Graphite; Zinc Oxide; Acetylcholine; Electrochemical Techniques; Oxidation-Reduction; Electrodes; Biosensing Techniques; Humans
PubMed: 38902301
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64238-7