Pleiotropic and Potentially Beneficial Effects of Reactive Oxygen Species on the Intracellular Signaling Pathways in Endothelial Cells

Royal jelly and doxorubicin suppressed tumor cells in the xenograft model of lung cancer via the STAT3/FOXM1/ATG7 signaling pathways in athymic nude mice: a biochemical, immunohistochemically and molecular approach

Royal Jelly (RJ), a traditional medicinal compound with tumor-suppressive properties, was investigated for its antitumor effects on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using a mouse xenograft model. Fifty athymic nude mice were divided into five groups: a control group, an untreated NSCLC group, a doxorubicin (DOX)-treated group, an RJ-treated group, and a combined RJ + DOX treatment group. RJ was administered at 200 mg/kg/day by gavage, while DOX was given intraperitoneally at 80 mg/kg on days 10, 20, and 30. Tumor size, volume, and weight were monitored, and Kaplan-Meier analysis assessed survival. Biochemical and histopathological analyses showed that RJ modulated oxidative stress markers, reduced inflammation (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, interferon-γ), and inhibited tumor growth. RJ downregulated STAT3/FOXM1/ATG7 signaling pathways involved in tumor cell survival, proliferation, and metastasis. Additionally, RJ promoted mitochondrial apoptosis through increased p53 expression and reduced angiogenesis by suppressing VEGF. Immunohistochemistry revealed decreased Ki-67 expression, indicating reduced tumor cell proliferation. Molecular analyses confirmed RJ's role in modulating key apoptosis and angiogenesis pathways. When combined with DOX, RJ enhanced therapeutic efficacy, suggesting a synergistic effect. These findings highlight RJ's potential as a therapeutic agent targeting STAT3 and related pathways in NSCLC treatment, offering a promising complementary approach to conventional chemotherapy.

A Narrative Review of Non-Pharmacological Strategies for Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults with Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases

This narrative review examines the mechanisms underlying the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic diseases (MDs), along with their association with sarcopenia. Furthermore, non-pharmacological interventions to address sarcopenia in patients with these conditions are suggested. The significance of combined training in managing metabolic disease and secondary sarcopenia in type II diabetes mellitus is emphasized. Additionally, the potential benefits of resistance and aerobic training are explored. This review emphasises the role of nutrition in addressing sarcopenia in patients with CVD or MDs, focusing on strategies such as optimising protein intake, promoting plant-based protein sources, incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and omega-3 fatty acids and ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels. Moreover, the potential benefits of targeting gut microbiota through probiotics and prebiotic fibres in sarcopenic individuals are considered. Multidisciplinary approaches that integrate behavioural science are explored to enhance the uptake and sustainability of behaviour-based sarcopenia interventions. Future research should prioritise high-quality randomized controlled trials to refine exercise and nutritional interventions and investigate the incorporation of behavioural science into routine practices. Ultimately, a comprehensive and multifaceted approach is essential to improve health outcomes, well-being and quality of life in older adults with sarcopenia and coexisting cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Rheumatoid Arthritis-Associated Synovial Microenvironment

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease that begins with a loss of tolerance to modified self-antigens and immune system abnormalities, eventually leading to synovitis and bone and cartilage degradation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are commonly used as destructive or modifying agents of cellular components or they act as signaling molecules in the immune system. During the development of RA, a hypoxic and inflammatory situation in the synovium maintains ROS generation, which can be sustained by increased DNA damage and malfunctioning mitochondria in a feedback loop. Oxidative stress caused by abundant ROS production has also been shown to be associated with synovitis in RA. The goal of this review is to examine the functions of ROS and related molecular mechanisms in diverse cells in the synovial microenvironment of RA. The strategies relying on regulating ROS to treat RA are also reviewed.