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Bian M, Zhu C, Nie A, Zhou Z. Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction ameliorates gouty arthritis in rats via altering gut microbiota and improving metabolic profile. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 131:155800. [PMID: 38851098 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of gouty arthritis (GA) has gradually increased, and modern drug therapies have obvious side effects. Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction (GSZD), a classic prescription in Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating various osteoarthritis, has shown significant advantages in curing GA. PURPOSE To verify the therapeutic effect of GSZD on GA and investigate its potential pharmacological mechanism via integrated analysis of the gut microbiota and serum metabolites for the first time. METHODS The chemical composition of GSZD was determined using UPLC-MS. The GA rat model was established by the induction of a high-purine diet combined with local injection. We examined the effects and mechanisms of GSZD after 21 d using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, 16S rRNA, and non-targeted metabolomics. Finally, correlation analysis and validation experiment were performed to explore the association among the gut microbiota, serum metabolites, and GA-related clinical indices. RESULTS In total, 19 compounds were identified as GSZD. High-purine feedstuff with local injection-induced arthroceles were significantly attenuated after GSZD treatment. GSZD improved bone erosion and reduced the serum levels of inflammatory factors (lipopolysaccharide, tumor cell necrosis factor-α, and interleukin) and key indicators of GA (uric acid). 16S rRNA analysis indicated that GSZD-treated GA rats exhibited differences in the composition of the gut microbiota. The abundance of flora involved in uric acid transport, including Lactobacillus, Ruminococcaceae, and Turicibacter, was elevated to various degrees, whereas the abundance of bacteria involved in inflammatory responses, such as Blautia, was markedly reduced after treatment. Moreover, serum metabolite profiles revealed 27 different metabolites associated with the amelioration of GA, which primarily included fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, purine metabolism, amino acids, and bile acids, as well as primary metabolic pathways, such as glycerophospholipid metabolism and alanine. Finally, correlation analysis of the heat maps and validation experiment demonstrated a close relationship among inflammatory cytokines, gut microbial phylotypes, and metabolic parameters. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that GSZD could modulate the gut microbiota and serum metabolic homeostasis to treat GA. In addition, the application of gut microbiota and serum metabolomics correlation analyses sheds light on the mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine compounds in the treatment of bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Bian
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Chunsheng Zhu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Anzheng Nie
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Zheng Zhou
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China.
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Rana D, Beladiya J, Sheth D, Salave S, Sharma A, Jindal AB, Patel R, Benival D. Precise Fabrication of Ocular Inserts Using an Innovative Laser-Driven CaliCut Technology: In Vitro and in Vivo Evaluation. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:1339-1350. [PMID: 38123067 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Ocular inserts offer distinct advantages, including a preservative-free drug delivery system, the ability to provide tailored drug release, and ease of administration. The present research paper delves into the development of an innovative ocular insert using CaliCut technology. Complementing the hot melt extrusion (HME) process, CaliCut, an advanced technology in ocular insert development, employs precision laser gauging to achieve impeccable cutting of inserts with desired dimensions. Its intelligent control over the stretching process through auto feedback-based belt speed adjustment ensures unparalleled accuracy and consistency in dosage form manufacturing. Dry eye disease (DED) poses a significant challenge to ocular health, necessitating innovative approaches to alleviate its symptoms. In this pursuit, castor oil has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent, offering beneficial effects by increasing the thickness of the lipid layer in the tear film, thus improving tear film stability, and reducing tear evaporation. To harness these advantages, this study focuses on the development and comprehensive characterization of castor oil-based ocular inserts. Additionally, in-vivo irritancy evaluation in rabbits has been undertaken to assess the inserts' safety and biocompatibility. By harnessing the HME and CaliCut techniques in the formulation process, the study demonstrates their instrumental role in facilitating the successful development of ocular inserts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhwani Rana
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research -Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), India
| | - Jayesh Beladiya
- Department of Pharmacology, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Devang Sheth
- Department of Pharmacology, L.M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Sagar Salave
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research -Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), India
| | - Amit Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research -Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), India
| | - Anil B Jindal
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani (BITS PILANI), Pilani Campus, Rajasthan, 333031, India
| | - Rikin Patel
- Graduate School of Pharmacy, Gujarat Technological University Gandhinagar Campus, Gandhinagar, 382028, India
| | - Derajram Benival
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research -Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), India.
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Parvizi MM, Saki N, Samimi S, Radanfer R, Shahrizi MM, Zarshenas MM. Efficacy of castor oil cream in treating infraorbital hyperpigmentation: An exploratory single-arm clinical trial. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:911-917. [PMID: 37927123 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infraorbital hyperpigmentation represents one of the most prevalent conditions in cosmetic dermatology. To treat this condition, many patients prefer natural remedies. This study explored the efficacy of topical castor oil cream in treating patients with infraorbital hyperpigmentation. METHODS We conducted an exploratory single-arm clinical trial at the Shahid Faghihi Dermatology Clinic and Molecular Dermatology Research Center of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, during 2021-2022. Using the convenience sampling method, we enrolled 25 patients with infraorbital hyperpigmentation. We instructed the patients to apply topical castor oil cream twice daily for 2 months. The darkness, melanin, and erythema levels were evaluated by VisioFace® 1000 D and SkinColorCatch® devices. We used a visual analog scale to assess skin laxity, wrinkles, and patient satisfaction. Data analysis was done with Stata version 14.2. RESULTS The data of 22 patients with a mean age of 40.92 ± 7.33 years were analyzed. The VisioFace® scores decreased significantly by the end of the study [right eyes: mean difference (MD): -5.63 (95% CI: -7.12 to -4.15), p < 0.001; left eyes: MD: -5.91 (95% CI: -7.46 to -4.36), p < 0.001]. Moreover, castor oil cream significantly reduced the melanin level, wrinkles, and skin laxity in the infraorbital region (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Castor oil cream seems to be an effective alternative for treating infraorbital hyperpigmentation. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mahdi Parvizi
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Saki
- Department of Dermatology, Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Soodabeh Samimi
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Roya Radanfer
- Department of Dermatology, Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Miaad Shahrizi
- Department of Phytopharmaceuticals (Traditional Pharmacy), School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Zarshenas
- Department of Phytopharmaceuticals (Traditional Pharmacy), School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Li Q, Tang B, Liu X, Chen B, Wang X, Xiao H, Zheng Z. Overcoming the Dilemma of In Vivo Stable Adhesion and Sustained Degradation by the Molecular Design of Polyurethane Adhesives for Bone Fracture Repair. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2301870. [PMID: 38145973 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Bone adhesive is a promising candidate to revolutionize the clinical treatment of bone repairs. However, several drawbacks have limited its further clinical application, such as unreliable wet adhesive performance leading to fixation failure and poor biodegradability inhibiting bone tissue growth. By incorporating catechol groups and disulfide bonds into polyurethane (PU) molecules, an injectable and porous PU adhesive is developed with both superior wet adhesion and biodegradability to facilitate the reduction and fixation of comminuted fractures and the subsequent regeneration of bone tissue. The bone adhesive can be cured within a reasonable time acceptable to a surgeon, and then the wet bone adhesive strength is near 1.30 MPa in 1 h. Finally, the wet adhesive strength to the cortical bone will achieve about 1.70 MPa, which is also five times more than nonresorbable poly(methyl methacrylate) bone cement. Besides, the cell culture experiments also indicate that the adhesives show excellent biocompatibility and osteogenic ability in vitro. Especially, it can degrade in vivo gradually and promote fracture healing in the rabbit iliac fracture model. These results demonstrate that this ingenious bone adhesive exhibits great potential in the treatment of comminuted fractures, providing fresh insights into the development of clinically applicable bone adhesives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, Central Hospital of Fengxian District, Sixth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, 201400, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xinchang Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Buyun Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xinling Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Haijun Xiao
- Department of Orthopedics, Central Hospital of Fengxian District, Sixth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, 201400, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Zhen Zheng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
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Salazar-Gómez A, Velo-Silvestre AA, Alonso-Castro AJ, Hernández-Zimbrón LF. Medicinal Plants Used for Eye Conditions in Mexico-A Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1432. [PMID: 37895904 PMCID: PMC10610470 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Medicinal plants have been historically significant for treating common human diseases in Mexico. Although some ethnobotanical research exists, limited ethnomedicinal data has documented medicinal plants employed for eye health. This review focuses on ethnomedicinal information and preclinical and clinical studies regarding medicinal plants used in Mexico for treating symptoms associated with eye conditions. An electronic database search was conducted by consulting scientific articles, books about Mexican herbal medicine, and academic theses. This work recorded 69 plant species belonging to 26 plant families, especially plants from the Crassulaceae family, which are used as remedies for irritation and infections in the eye. Eight of these medicinal plants have been the subject of preclinical studies using ocular models, and one medicinal plant has been tested in clinical trials. The evidence of pharmacological effects indicates the promising therapeutic potential of these medicinal plants for developing new treatments for eye conditions. However, toxicological studies are necessary to ensure safe application to the eye, particularly as traditional medicine continues to be relied upon worldwide. In addition, this review highlights the need to perform ethnobotanical and phytochemical studies in Mexico regarding the medicinal flora used as remedies for eye conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuar Salazar-Gómez
- Laboratorio de Investigación Interdisciplinaria, Área de Optomtería, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (ENES-León UNAM), Blvd. UNAM 2011, Guanajuato 37684, Mexico;
| | - Amabile A. Velo-Silvestre
- Clínica de Optometría, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (ENES-León UNAM), Blvd. UNAM 2011, Guanajuato 37684, Mexico;
| | - Angel Josabad Alonso-Castro
- Departamento de Farmacia, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta, Colonia Noria Alta Guanajuato, Guanajuato 36250, Mexico
| | - Luis Fernando Hernández-Zimbrón
- Laboratorio de Investigación Interdisciplinaria, Área de Optomtería, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (ENES-León UNAM), Blvd. UNAM 2011, Guanajuato 37684, Mexico;
- Clínica de Optometría, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (ENES-León UNAM), Blvd. UNAM 2011, Guanajuato 37684, Mexico;
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Agarwal P, Rupenthal ID. Non-aqueous formulations in topical ocular drug delivery - a paradigm shift? Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 198:114867. [PMID: 37178927 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Topical eyedrop application is the preferred route for drug delivery to anterior segment tissues; however, the challenge of overcoming the eye's anatomical and physiological barriers while minimising tissue toxicity has restricted developments in this field. Aqueous vehicles have traditionally been used, which typically require several additives and preservatives to achieve physiologically compatible and sterile eyedrops, elevating their toxicity potential. Non-aqueous vehicles have been suggested as efficient alternatives for topical drug delivery as they can address many of the limitations associated with conventional aqueous eyedrops. However, despite their obvious advantages, non-aqueous eyedrops remain poorly researched and few non-aqueous formulations are currently available in the market. This review challenges the conventional hypothesis that aqueous solubility is a prerequisite to ocular drug absorption and establishes a rationale for using non-aqueous vehicles for ocular drug delivery. Recent advances in the field have been detailed and future research prospects have been explored, pointing towards a paradigm shift in eyedrop formulation in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Agarwal
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Ilva D Rupenthal
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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Stapleton F, Abad JC, Barabino S, Burnett A, Iyer G, Lekhanont K, Li T, Liu Y, Navas A, Obinwanne CJ, Qureshi R, Roshandel D, Sahin A, Shih K, Tichenor A, Jones L. TFOS lifestyle: Impact of societal challenges on the ocular surface. Ocul Surf 2023; 28:165-199. [PMID: 37062429 PMCID: PMC10102706 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Societal factors associated with ocular surface diseases were mapped using a framework to characterize the relationship between the individual, their health and environment. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and mitigating factors on ocular surface diseases were considered in a systematic review. Age and sex effects were generally well-characterized for inflammatory, infectious, autoimmune and trauma-related conditions. Sex and gender, through biological, socio-economic, and cultural factors impact the prevalence and severity of disease, access to, and use of, care. Genetic factors, race, smoking and co-morbidities are generally well characterized, with interdependencies with geographical, employment and socioeconomic factors. Living and working conditions include employment, education, water and sanitation, poverty and socioeconomic class. Employment type and hobbies are associated with eye trauma and burns. Regional, global socio-economic, cultural and environmental conditions, include remoteness, geography, seasonality, availability of and access to services. Violence associated with war, acid attacks and domestic violence are associated with traumatic injuries. The impacts of conflict, pandemic and climate are exacerbated by decreased food security, access to health services and workers. Digital technology can impact diseases through physical and mental health effects and access to health information and services. The COVID-19 pandemic and related mitigating strategies are mostly associated with an increased risk of developing new or worsening existing ocular surface diseases. Societal factors impact the type and severity of ocular surface diseases, although there is considerable interdependence between factors. The overlay of the digital environment, natural disasters, conflict and the pandemic have modified access to services in some regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Stapleton
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Juan Carlos Abad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Antioquia Ophthalmology Clinic-Clofan, Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Stefano Barabino
- ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Ospedale L. Sacco-University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Anthea Burnett
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Geetha Iyer
- C. J. Shah Cornea Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kaevalin Lekhanont
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tianjing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Ophthalmology Department, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Alejandro Navas
- Conde de Valenciana, National Autonomous University of Mexico UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Riaz Qureshi
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Danial Roshandel
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Afsun Sahin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Koc University Medical School, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Kendrick Shih
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Anna Tichenor
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Lyndon Jones
- Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE), School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Chudzicka-Strugała I, Gołębiewska I, Brudecki G, Elamin W, Zwoździak B. Demodicosis in Different Age Groups and Alternative Treatment Options-A Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12041649. [PMID: 36836184 PMCID: PMC9961532 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Infestation with Demodex mites is a common occurrence, especially in adults and the elderly. More recent attention has been paid to the presence of Demodex spp. mites in children, even ones without comorbidities. It causes both dermatological and ophthalmological problems. The presence of Demodex spp. is often asymptomatic, thus it is suggested to include parasitological investigation tests in dermatological diagnostics, in addition to bacteriological analysis. Literature reports show that Demodex spp. are related to the pathogenesis of numerous dermatoses, including rosacea or demodicosis gravis, and common eye pathologies reported by patients such as dry eye syndrome or ocular surface inflammatory conditions, such as blepharitis, chalazia, Meibomian gland dysfunction, and keratitis. Treatment of patients is a challenge and is usually prolonged, therefore it is important to carefully diagnose and properly select the therapy regimen for the treatment to be successful, and with minimal side effects, especially for young patients. Apart from the use of essential oils, research is ongoing for new alternative preparations active against Demodex sp. Our review was focused on the analysis of the current literature data on the available agents in the treatment of demodicosis in adults and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Chudzicka-Strugała
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 10, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Iwona Gołębiewska
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI), Université Catholique de Louvain, Croix du Sud 2, 1348 Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | - Grzegorz Brudecki
- Group 42 (Healthcare), Masdar City, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 112778, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wael Elamin
- Group 42 (Healthcare), Masdar City, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 112778, United Arab Emirates
| | - Barbara Zwoździak
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 10, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
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Improved Watershed Algorithm-Based Microscopic Images Combined with Meibomian Gland Microprobe in the Treatment of Demodectic Blepharitis. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4389659. [PMID: 35720025 PMCID: PMC9200586 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4389659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to explore microscopic images under a watershed segmentation algorithm combined with meibomian gland microprobe in the treatment of demodectic blepharitis. For segmenting the connected target objects in the image, the watershed algorithm was utilized first to obtain the target region in the image, and then, the fuzzy C-means (FCM) clustering algorithm was used to cluster the targets. The different grayscale regions in the microscopic images were segmented. 90 patients with demodectic blepharitis-related dry eyes were selected, and they were divided into experimental group 1 (group E1, n = 30), experimental group 2 (group E2, n = 30), and control group (group CG, n = 30). The breakup time (BUT) of the tear film, the subjective score of clinical symptoms, and the number of mites were compared among the three groups before and after treatment. The results showed that after treatment, the indicators of group E1 and group E2 were significantly lower than those before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The treatment effect of group E1 was significantly better than that of the other two groups (P < 0.05). The subjective clinical symptom scores of groups E1, E2, and CG were 13.43 ± 1.41, 13.51 ± 1.41, and 13.64 ± 0.84, respectively, before treatment, and those after treatment were 3.1 ± 1.841, 5.4 ± 0.661, and 13.4 ± 0.841, respectively. The clinical sign scores of the groups E1 and E2 after treatment were remarkably different from those before treatment (P < 0.05). Compared with the scores of clinical signs and clinical symptoms after treatment, those of group E1 showed the largest differences, indicating the best treatment effect. In conclusion, the treatment effect of blepharitis could be promoted with the improved watershed algorithm, and the microscopic images combined with meibomian gland microprobe gave the better effect in the treatment of demodectic blepharitis than the conventional drug heat compress.
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Development of Olive Oil and α-Tocopherol Containing Emulsions Stabilized by FucoPol: Rheological and Textural Analyses. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14122349. [PMID: 35745925 PMCID: PMC9227800 DOI: 10.3390/polym14122349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Biobased raw materials like natural polysaccharides are increasingly sought by the cosmetic industry for their valuable properties. Such biodegradable and usually non-cytotoxic biopolymers are commonly used in skin-care products as rheological modifiers, bioemulsifiers and/or bioactive ingredients. FucoPol is a natural polysaccharide with reported biocompatibility, emulsion-forming and stabilizing capacity, shear-thinning behavior and bioactivity (e.g., antioxidant capacity, wound healing ability) that potentiate its utilization in skin-care products. In this study, olive oil and α-tocopherol containing emulsions were stabilized with FucoPol. Although the presence of α-tocopherol negatively impacted the emulsions’ stability, it increased their emulsification index (EI). Moreover, FucoPol outperformed the commercial emulsifier Sepigel® 305, under the tested conditions, with higher EI and higher stability under storage for 30 days. The formulation of FucoPol-based emulsions with olive oil and α-tocopherol was studied by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) that allowed the definition of the ingredients’ content to attain high emulsification. The RSM model established that α-tocopherol concentration had no significant impact on the EI within the tested ranges, with optimal emulsification for FucoPol concentration in the range 0.7–1.2 wt.% and olive oil contents of 20–30 wt.%. Formulations with 25 wt.% olive oil and either 0.5 or 2.0 wt.% α-tocopherol were emulsified with 1.0 wt.% or 0.7 wt.% FucoPol, respectively, resulting in oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. The emulsions had similar shear-thinning behavior, but the formulation with higher FucoPol content displayed higher apparent viscosity, higher consistency, as well as higher firmness, adhesiveness and cohesiveness, but lower spreadability. These findings show FucoPol’s high performance as an emulsifier for olive oil/α-tocopherol, which are supported by an effective impact on the physicochemical and structural characteristics of the emulsions. Hence, this natural polysaccharide is a potential alternative to other emulsifiers.
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Er S, Laraib U, Arshad R, Sargazi S, Rahdar A, Pandey S, Thakur VK, Díez-Pascual AM. Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins: Implications for Nanotechnological Applications in Biosensing and Drug/Gene Delivery. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:3002. [PMID: 34835766 PMCID: PMC8622868 DOI: 10.3390/nano11113002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over various scientific fields in biochemistry, amino acids have been highlighted in research works. Protein, peptide- and amino acid-based drug delivery systems have proficiently transformed nanotechnology via immense flexibility in their features for attaching various drug molecules and biodegradable polymers. In this regard, novel nanostructures including carbon nanotubes, electrospun carbon nanofibers, gold nanoislands, and metal-based nanoparticles have been introduced as nanosensors for accurate detection of these organic compounds. These nanostructures can bind the biological receptor to the sensor surface and increase the surface area of the working electrode, significantly enhancing the biosensor performance. Interestingly, protein-based nanocarriers have also emerged as useful drug and gene delivery platforms. This is important since, despite recent advancements, there are still biological barriers and other obstacles limiting gene and drug delivery efficacy. Currently available strategies for gene therapy are not cost-effective, and they do not deliver the genetic cargo effectively to target sites. With rapid advancements in nanotechnology, novel gene delivery systems are introduced as nonviral vectors such as protein, peptide, and amino acid-based nanostructures. These nano-based delivery platforms can be tailored into functional transformation using proteins and peptides ligands based nanocarriers, usually overexpressed in the specified diseases. The purpose of this review is to shed light on traditional and nanotechnology-based methods to detect amino acids, peptides, and proteins. Furthermore, new insights into the potential of amino protein-based nanoassemblies for targeted drug delivery or gene transfer are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simge Er
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir 35100, Turkey;
| | - Ushna Laraib
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan;
| | - Rabia Arshad
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan;
| | - Saman Sargazi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute of Cellular and Molecular Sciences in Infectious Diseases, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan 9816743463, Iran;
| | - Abbas Rahdar
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Zabol, Zabol 538-98615, Iran
| | - Sadanand Pandey
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Science, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-Ro, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea;
| | - Vijay Kumar Thakur
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Centre, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Kings Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK;
- School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Ana M. Díez-Pascual
- Universidad de Alcalá, Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Química Analítica, Química Física e Ingeniería Química, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, Km. 33.6, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Hui A, Jalbert I. Ocular therapeutics: from special interest to standard care. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 104:265-266. [PMID: 33689630 DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2021.1877535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Hui
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
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Formulation and Stability of Ataluren Eye Drop Oily Solution for Aniridia. Pharmaceutics 2020; 13:pharmaceutics13010007. [PMID: 33375041 PMCID: PMC7822034 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital aniridia is a rare and severe panocular disease characterized by a complete or partial iris defect clinically detectable at birth. The most common form of aniridia occurring in around 90% of cases is caused by PAX6 haploinsufficiency. The phenotype includes ptosis, nystagmus, corneal limbal insufficiency, glaucoma, cataract, optic nerve, and foveal hypoplasia. Ataluren eye drops aim to restore ocular surface PAX6 haploinsufficiency in aniridia-related keratopathy (ARK). However, there are currently no available forms of the ophthalmic solution. The objective of this study was to assess the physicochemical and microbiological stability of ataluren 1% eye drop in preservative-free low-density polyethylene (LDPE) bottle with an innovative insert that maintains sterility after opening. Because ataluren is a strongly lipophilic compound, the formulation is complex and involves a strategy based on co-solvents in an aqueous phase or an oily formulation capable of totally dissolving the active ingredient. The visual aspect, ataluren quantification by a stability-indicating chromatographic method, and microbiological sterility were analyzed. The oily formulation in castor oil and DMSO (10%) better protects ataluren hydrolysis and oxidative degradation and permits its complete solubilization. Throughout the 60 days period, the oily solution in the LDPE bottle remained clear without any precipitation or color modification, and no drug loss and no microbial development were detected. The demonstrated physical and microbiological stability of ataluren 1% eye drop formulation at 22–25 °C might facilitate clinical research in aniridia.
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