Challenges in the treatment and prevention of Monkeypox infection; a comprehensive review

Human monkeypox (HMPX) is a zoonotic disease, literally meaning that it can be passed on from animals (non-primate) to human (primate). All the reported and recorded cases have been traced back either to international travel or import of African animals. In the Unites states, sporadic monkeypox cases have been reported in specific over the past 50 years, starting its first identification in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (D.R.C.) in 1970. Due to its extreme versatility, this disease poses threat as a serious public health issue that needs to be monitored, researched and prevented. Data indicate that prior immunization with the smallpox vaccine is beneficial and may provide protection against the monkeypox virus. JYNNEOSTM is a live viral vaccine that has been approved to improve clinical manifestations of the infection. On the other hand, public ignorance about safety precaution towards monkeypox post-COVID is another challenge that needs to be overcome in tackling HMPX as a possible re-emergent infection. This review is a collation of the epidemiology, etiology, transmission, clinical features and treatment of human monkeypox (HMPX).

Miscellaneous naturally derived anticancer agents

Abstract:

Secondary metabolites of natural origin exhibit numerous pharmacological activities like anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. Lipid peroxidation is observed to be prevented by terminating free radical chains and chelating redox active metal ions. These properties of the secondary products can also aid in preventing carcinoma. Many traditional and emerging plants are blessed with plenty of unexplored phytometabolites, which contain the probability to carry huge anti-neoplastic potential. Acetogenins are anticancer compounds that kill tumor cells through a variety and series of developmental methods. They are very powerful apoptosis inducers and can regulate the exclusion of chemotherapy medicines from cancer cells. Chalcone is a pharmacologically active molecule that can be found in both natural and manufactured products. Marine species, which are also examples of naturally derived drug sources such as algae, sponges, tunicates, and bryozoans have emerged as important components of choice for the separation of novel anticancer drugs obtained from marine sources. Bacteria of marine origin are the source of new drug discoveries and therapeutic targets, which are being explored to unprecedented heights and they have proven to be sources of various medicinal agents such as antibiotics etc. Numerous secondary metabolites have been isolated from marine fungi, that were active biologically and unique structural and also therapeutically beneficial. So far, almost 1000 secondary metabolites have been found, the majority of which are exclusive to lichens. This mini-review aims for the discussion of different aspects related to the natural derivatives obtained from various sources, which play a pivotal role as anti-neoplastic agents.

A retrospective study on evaluation of anti-hypertensive drugs used in gestational hypertension

To evaluate the anti-hypertensive drugs used in pregnancy induced hypertension and to determine the safety of the anti-hypertensive drugs administered in gestational hypertensive patients. Pregnancy induced hypertension are very common in women and if unnoticed may lead to severe complications. The appropriate therapy is very much essential for the welfare of both the mother and the child. Hence this study was undertaken to identify the commonly used and safe drugs in pregnancy induced hypertension. This retrospective study was carried out in the Medical Records Department of a specialized gynecological hospital. Patient details - Name, Age, Sex, Occupation, Body Mass Index (BMI), Social History (SH), Past Medical History (PMH), Diagnosis, mother weight and BP, baby weight, specific anti-hypertensives given, outcome, complication in both mother and baby if any, duration of anti-hypertensive drug use, duration of hospital stay were all recorded in a proforma. Adverse Drug Reactions for anti-hypertensive drugs given were also noted. Nifedipine was the most common drug prescribed both in monotherapy and dual therapy. Adverse drug reaction was seen only in 2% of patients. Pregnancy induced hypertension is one of the riskiest conditions to occur during pregnancy. Dietary modification and lifestyle modification might help in controlling pre-eclampsia.