Future aspects of plant derived bioactive metabolites as therapeutics to combat benign prostatic hyperplasia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), characterized by prostate enlargement due to cell proliferation, is a common urinary disorder in men over 50, manifesting as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Currently, several therapeutic options are accessible for treating BPH, including medication therapy, surgery and watchful waiting. Conventional drugs such as finasteride and dutasteride are used as 5α-reductase inhibitors for the treatment of BPH. However long-term use of these drugs is restricted due to their unpleasant side effects. Despite the range of available medical therapies, the effective treatment against BPH is still inadequate. Certain therapeutic plants and their phytochemicals have the aforementioned goals and work by regulating this enzyme.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight to advancements in diagnosis of BPH, modern treatment methods and the significance of ethnobotanically relevant medicinal plants as alternative therapeutics for managing BPH.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A thorough and systematic literature search was performed using electronic databases and search engines such as PubMed, Web of Science, NCBI and SciFinder till October 2023. Specific keywords such as "benign prostatic hyperplasia", "medicinal plants", "phytochemicals", "pharmacology", "synergy", "ethnobotany", "5-alpha reductase", "alpha blocker" and "toxicology". By include these keywords, a thorough investigation of pertinent papers was assured, and important data about the many facets of BPH could be retrieved.

RESULTS

After conducting the above investigation, 104 herbal remedies were found to inhibit Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibition, alpha-blockers, or 5α -reductase inhibition effects which are supported by in vitro, in vivo and clinical trial studies evidence. Of these, 89 plants have ethnobotanical significance as alpha-blockers, alpha-reductase inhibition, or PDE-5 inhibition, and the other fifteen plants were chosen based on their ability to reduce BPH risk factors. Several phytocompounds, including, rutaecarpine, vaccarin, rutin, kaempferol, β-sitosterol, quercetin, dicaffeoylquinic acid, rutaevin, and phytosterol-F have been reported to be useful for the management of BPH. The use of combination therapy offers a strong approach to treating long-term conditions compare to single plant extract drugs. Furthermore, several botanical combinations such as lycopene and curcumin, pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil, combinations of extracts from Funtumia africana (Benth.) Stapf and Abutilon mauritianum (Jacq.) Medik., and Hypselodelphys poggeana (K.Schum.) Milne-Redh. and Spermacoce radiata (DC.) Sieber ex Hiern are also supported through in vitro and in vivo studies for managing BPH through recuperation in patients with chronic long-term illnesses, as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score.

CONCLUSION

The review proposes and endorses careful utilization of conventional medications that may be investigated further to discover possible PDE-5, 5 alpha-reductase, an alpha-blocker inhibitor for managing BPH. Even though most conventional formulations, such as 5 alpha-reductase, are readily available, systemic assessment of the effectiveness and mechanism of action of the herbal constituents is still necessary to identify novel chemical moieties that can be further developed for maximum efficacy. However, there exist abundant botanicals and medicinal plants across several regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, which can be further studied and developed for utilization as a potential phytotherapeutic for the management of BPH.

Strategies for the Nuclear Delivery of Metal Complexes to Cancer Cells

The nucleus is an essential organelle for the function of cells. It holds most of the genetic material and plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell growth and proliferation. Since many antitumoral therapies target nucleic acids to induce cell death, tumor-specific nuclear drug delivery could potentiate therapeutic effects and prevent potential off-target side effects on healthy tissue. Due to their great structural variety, good biocompatibility, and unique physico-chemical properties, organometallic complexes and other metal-based compounds have sparked great interest as promising anticancer agents. In this review, strategies for specific nuclear delivery of metal complexes are summarized and discussed to highlight crucial parameters to consider for the design of new metal complexes as anticancer drug candidates. Moreover, the existing opportunities and challenges of tumor-specific, nucleus-targeting metal complexes are emphasized to outline some new perspectives and help in the design of new cancer treatments.

Chemically synthesized ciprofloxacin-PEG-FeO nanotherapeutic exhibits strong antibacterial and controlled cytotoxic effects

Aim: To develop a biocompatible conjugated ciprofloxacin-PEG-FeO nanodelivery system with increased efficacy of available therapeutics in a controlled manner. Materials & methods: FeO nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical and biological methods and modified as ciprofloxacin-PEG-FeO nanoformulations. After initial antibacterial and cytotoxicity studies, the effective and biocompatible nanoformulations was further fabricated as nanotherapeutics for in vivo studies in mouse models. Results: Chemically synthesized ciprofloxacin-PEG-FeO nanoformulations demonstrated boosted antibacterial activity against clinically isolated bacterial strains. Nanoformulations were also found to be compatible with baby hamster kidney 21 cells and red blood cells. In in vivo studies, nanotherapeutic showed wound-healing effects with eradication of Staphylococcus aureus infection. Conclusion: The investigations indicate that the developed nanotherapeutic can eradicate localized infections and enhance wound healing with controlled cytotoxicity.

Biological and genomic characteristics of three novel bacteriophages and a phage-plasmid of Klebsiella pneumoniae

Bacteriophages have emerged as promising candidates for the treatment of difficult-to-treat bacterial infections. The aim of this study is to isolate and characterize phages infecting carbapenem-resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producer Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates. Water samples were taken for the isolation of bacteriophages. One-step growth curve, the optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI), thermal and pH stabilities, transmission electron microscopy and whole-genome sequencing of phages were studied. Four phages were isolated and named Klebsiella phage Kpn02, Kpn17, Kpn74, and Kpn13. The optimal MOI and latent periods of phage Kpn02, Kpn17, Kpn74, and Kpn13 were 10, 1, 0.001, and 100 PFU/CFU and 20, 10, 20, and 30 min, respectively. Burst sizes ranged from 811 to 2363. No known antibiotic resistance and virulence genes were identified. No tRNAs were detected except Klebsiella phage Kpn02 which encodes 24 tRNAs. Interestingly, Klebsiella phage Kpn74 was predicted to be a lysogenic phage whose prophage is a linear plasmid molecule with covalently closed ends. Of the Klebsiella-infecting phages presented in current study, virulent phages suggest that they may represent candidate therapeutic agents against MDR K. pneumoniae, based on short latent period, high burst sizes and no known antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in their genomes.

Comparative effectiveness of manual intermittent cervical longitudinal mobilization versus pain modalities in cervical radiculopathy: A double blinded randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Cervical radiculopathy is a common condition encountered in clinical practice and is characterized by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the cervical spine.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of manual intermittent cervical longitudinal mobilization (mICLM) and therapeutic modalities in managing acute, sub-acute and chronic radiculopathy pain.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Individuals with radiculopathies were randomized into interventional; (IG, n= 18) receiving mICLM and control group; (CG, n= 17), receiving Microwave Diathermy (MWD) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) at the cervico-dorsal area daily for two weeks. The neck pain disability index (NPDI), numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), and global rating of change score (GRoC) were used as outcome measures. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23.0.

RESULTS

Both mICLM and MWD with TENS were equally effective in reducing the pain and disability in either group. However, it was noted that mICLM had a better impact on acute, sub-acute and chronic cases of radiculopathy pain comparatively. Mean age was 42.3 (SD =± 10.9) years. 54.3% were between the age group of 40-60 years out of which 51.4% were male and 48.6% were female. 51.4% were in IG and 48.6% were in CG. The mean comparison of NPAD and NPRS within groups was significant with p< 0.01*. Post treatment mean comparison of NPAD outcomes in IG and CG remain significant with p= 0.004* and p< 0.01* respectively. The post NPAD and NPRS between IG and CG were found statistically insignificant with p= 0.75 and p= 0.57 respectively.

CONCLUSION

mICLM and therapeutic modalities showed similar outcomes in managing radiculopathy pain. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the effectiveness of these interventions in larger patient populations.

Dual-action potential of cationic cryptides against infections and cancers

Cryptides are a subfamily of bioactive peptides embedded latently in their parent proteins and have multiple biological functions. Cationic cryptides could be used as modern drugs in both infectious diseases and cancers because their mechanism of action is less likely to be affected by genetic mutations in the treated cells, therefore addressing a current unmet need in these two areas of medicine. In this review, we present the current understanding of cryptides, methods to mine them sustainably using available online databases and prediction tools, with a particular focus on their antimicrobial and anticancer potential, and their potential applicability in a clinical setting.

Advances of nanotechnology for intracerebral hemorrhage therapy

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the most devastating subtype of stoke, is of high mortality at 5 years and even those survivors usually would suffer permanent disabilities. Fortunately, various preclinical active drugs have been approached in ICH, meanwhile, the therapeutic effects of these pharmaceutical ingredients could be fully boosted with the assistance of nanotechnology. In this review, besides the pathology of ICH, some ICH therapeutically available active drugs and their employed nanotechnologies, material functions, and therapeutic principles were comprehensively discussed hoping to provide novel and efficient strategies for ICH therapy in the future.

Application of cell-derived exosomes in the hematological malignancies therapy

Exosomes are small membrane vesicles of endocytic origin that are produced by both tumor and normal cells and can be found in physiological fluids like plasma and cell culture supernatants. They include cytokines, growth factors, proteins, lipids, RNAs, and metabolites and are important intercellular communication controllers in several disorders. According to a vast amount of research, exosomes could support or inhibit tumor start and diffusion in a variety of solid and hematological malignancies by paracrine signaling. Exosomes are crucial therapeutic agents for a variety of illnesses, such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. This review discusses the most current and encouraging findings from in vitro and experimental in vivo research, as well as the scant number of ongoing clinical trials, with a focus on the impact of exosomes in the treatment of malignancies. Exosomes have great promise as carriers of medications, antagonists, genes, and other therapeutic materials that can be incorporated into their core in a variety of ways. Exosomes can also alter the metabolism of cancer cells, alter the activity of immunologic effectors, and alter non-coding RNAs, all of which can alter the tumor microenvironment and turn it from a pro-tumor to an anti-tumor milieu. This subject is covered in the current review, which also looks at how exosomes contribute to the onset and progression of hematological malignancies, as well as their importance in diagnosing and treating these conditions.

Aloe vera-Based Hydrogels for Wound Healing: Properties and Therapeutic Effects

Aloe vera-based hydrogels have emerged as promising platforms for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings due to their biocompatibility and unique wound-healing properties. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the application of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for wound healing. The synthesis methods, structural characteristics, and properties of Aloe vera-based hydrogels are discussed. Mechanisms of therapeutic agents released from Aloe vera-based hydrogels, including diffusion, swelling, and degradation, are also analyzed. In addition, the therapeutic effects of Aloe vera-based hydrogels on wound healing, as well as the reduction of inflammation, antimicrobial activity, and tissue regeneration, are highlighted. The incorporation of various therapeutic agents, such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ones, into Aloe vera-based hydrogels is reviewed in detail. Furthermore, challenges and future prospects of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for wound dressing applications are considered. This review provides valuable information on the current status of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings and highlights their potential to improve wound healing outcomes.

Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Properties of CholesteroNitrone ChN2 and QuinolylNitrone QN23 in an Experimental Model of Cerebral Ischemia: Involvement of Necrotic and Apoptotic Cell Death

Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. However, current therapeutic strategies are scarce and of limited efficacy. The abundance of information available on the molecular pathophysiology of ischemic stroke has sparked considerable interest in developing new neuroprotective agents that can target different events of the ischemic cascade and may be used in combination with existing treatments. In this regard, nitrones represent a very promising alternative due to their renowned antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we aimed to further investigate the neuroprotective effects of two nitrones, cholesteronitrone 2 (ChN2) and quinolylnitrone 23 (QN23), which have previously shown great potential for the treatment of stroke. Using an experimental in vitro model of cerebral ischemia, we compared their anti-necrotic, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant properties with those of three reference compounds. Both ChN2 and QN23 demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects (EC₅₀ = 0.66 ± 0.23 μM and EC₅₀ = 2.13 ± 0.47 μM, respectively) comparable to those of homo-bis-nitrone 6 (HBN6) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and superior to those of α-phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone (PBN). While primarily derived from the nitrones' anti-necrotic capacities, their anti-apoptotic effects at high concentrations and antioxidant powers-especially in the case of QN23-also contribute to their neuroprotective effects.

Metal Nanoparticles as Novel Agents for Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and contributes to most cancer-related morbidity and mortality cases. During the past decades, the rapid development of nanotechnology has provided opportunities and challenges for lung cancer diagnosis and therapeutics. As one of the most extensively studied nanostructures, metal nanoparticles obtain higher satisfaction in biomedical applications associated with lung cancer. Metal nanoparticles have enhanced almost all major imaging strategies and proved great potential as sensor for detecting cancer-specific biomarkers. Moreover, metal nanoparticles could also improve therapeutic efficiency via better drug delivery, improved radiotherapy, enhanced gene silencing, and facilitated photo-driven treatment. Herein, the recently advanced metal nanoparticles applied in lung cancer therapy and diagnosis are summarized. Future perspective on the direction of metal-based nanomedicine is also discussed. Stimulating more research interests to promote the development of metal nanoparticles in lung cancer is devoted.

Recent Advances in the Study of the Immune Escape Mechanism of SFTSV and Its Therapeutic Agents

Sever fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a new infectious disease that has emerged in recent years and is widely distributed, highly contagious, and lethal, with a mortality rate of up to 30%, especially in people with immune system deficiencies and elderly patients. SFTS is an insidious, negative-stranded RNA virus that has a major public health impact worldwide. The development of a vaccine and the hunt for potent therapeutic drugs are crucial to the prevention and treatment of Bunyavirus infection because there is no particular treatment for SFTS. In this respect, investigating the mechanics of SFTS-host cell interactions is crucial for creating antiviral medications. In the present paper, we summarized the mechanism of interaction between SFTS and pattern recognition receptors, endogenous antiviral factors, inflammatory factors, and immune cells. Furthermore, we summarized the current therapeutic drugs used for SFTS treatment, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the development of targets and drugs against SFTS.

Application of antimicrobial peptides as next-generation therapeutics in the biomedical world

Antimicrobial peptide (AMP), also called host defense peptide, is a part of the innate immune system in eukaryotic organisms. AMPs are also produced by prokaryotes in response to stressful conditions and environmental changes. They have a broad spectrum of activity against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. They are also effective against viruses, fungi, parasites, and cancer cells. AMPs are cationic or amphipathic in nature, but in recent years cationic AMPs have attracted a lot of attention because cationic AMPs can easily interact with negatively charged bacterial and cancer cell membranes through electrostatic interaction. AMPs can also eradicate bacterial biofilms and have broad-spectrum activity against multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria. Although the main target site for AMPs is the cell membrane, they can also disrupt bacterial cell walls, interfere with protein folding and inhibit enzymatic activity. In recent centuries antibiotics are gradually losing their potential because of the continuous rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat MDR bacteria, and AMP is such an alternative treatment option over conventional antibiotics. Several communicable diseases like tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases such as cancer can be treated by using AMPs. One of the major advantages of using AMP is that it works with high specificity and does not cause any harm to normal tissue. AMPs can be modified to improve their efficacy. In this narrative review, we are focusing on the potential application of AMPs in medical science.

Recent Development of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)-Based Materials for Antibacterial Applications: A Review

The diseases caused by microorganisms are innumerable existing on this planet. Nevertheless, increasing antimicrobial resistance has become an urgent global challenge. Thus, in recent decades, bactericidal materials have been considered promising candidates to combat bacterial pathogens. Recently, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have been used as green and biodegradable materials in various promising alternative applications, especially in healthcare for antiviral or antiviral purposes. However, it lacks a systematic review of the recent application of this emerging material for antibacterial applications. Therefore, the ultimate goal of this review is to provide a critical review of the state of the art recent development of PHA biopolymers in terms of cutting-edge production technologies as well as promising application fields. In addition, special attention was given to collecting scientific information on antibacterial agents that can potentially be incorporated into PHA materials for biological and durable antimicrobial protection. Furthermore, the current research gaps are declared, and future research perspectives are proposed to better understand the properties of these biopolymers as well as their possible applications.

Extracellular Vesicles as "Very Important Particles" (VIPs) in Aging

In recent decades, extracellular vesicles have been recognized as "very important particles" (VIPs) associated with aging and age-related disease. During the 1980s, researchers discovered that these vesicle particles released by cells were not debris but signaling molecules carrying cargoes that play key roles in physiological processes and physiopathological modulation. Following the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) recommendation, different vesicle particles (e.g., exosomes, microvesicles, oncosomes) have been named globally extracellular vesicles. These vesicles are essential to maintain body homeostasis owing to their essential and evolutionarily conserved role in cellular communication and interaction with different tissues. Furthermore, recent studies have shown the role of extracellular vesicles in aging and age-associated diseases. This review summarizes the advances in the study of extracellular vesicles, mainly focusing on recently refined methods for their isolation and characterization. In addition, the role of extracellular vesicles in cell signaling and maintenance of homeostasis, as well as their usefulness as new biomarkers and therapeutic agents in aging and age-associated diseases, has also been highlighted.

Treatment Effects of Natural Products on Inflammatory Bowel Disease In Vivo and Their Mechanisms: Based on Animal Experiments

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, non-specific inflammatory disease of the intestine that can be classified as ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Currently, the incidence of IBD is still increasing in developing countries. However, current treatments for IBD have limitations and do not fully meet the needs of patients. There is a growing demand for new, safe, and highly effective alternative drugs for IBD patients. Natural products (NPs) are used in drug development and disease treatment because of their broad biological activity, low toxicity, and low side effects. Numerous studies have shown that some NPs have strong therapeutic effects on IBD. In this paper, we first reviewed the pathogenesis of IBD as well as current therapeutic approaches and drugs. Further, we summarized the therapeutic effects of 170 different sources of NPs on IBD and generalized their modes of action and therapeutic effects. Finally, we analyzed the potential mechanisms of NPs for the treatment of IBD. The aim of our review is to provide a systematic and credible summary, thus supporting the research on NPs for the treatment of IBD and providing a theoretical basis for the development and application of NPs in drugs and functional foods.

IDH2 and TET2 mutations synergize to modulate T Follicular Helper cell functional interaction with the AITL microenvironment

Angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma (AITL) is a peripheral T cell lymphoma that originates from T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and exhibits a prominent tumor microenvironment (TME). IDH2 and TET2 mutations co-occur frequently in AITL, but their contribution to tumorigenesis is poorly understood. We developed an AITL mouse model that is driven by Idh2 and Tet2 mutations. Malignant Tfh cells display aberrant transcriptomic and epigenetic programs that impair TCR signaling. Neoplastic Tfh cells bearing combined Idh2 and Tet2 mutations show altered cross-talk with germinal center B cells that promotes B cell clonal expansion while decreasing Fas-FasL interaction and reducing B cell apoptosis. The plasma cell count and angiogenesis are also increased in the Idh2-mutated tumors, implying a major relationship between Idh2 mutation and the characteristic AITL TME. Our mouse model recapitulates several features of human IDH2-mutated AITL and provides a rationale for exploring therapeutic targeting of Tfh-TME cross-talk for AITL patients.

BACE-1 Inhibitors Targeting Alzheimer's Disease

The accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) is the main event related to Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. Over the years, several disease-modulating approaches have been reported, but without clinical success. The amyloid cascade hypothesis evolved and proposed essential targets such as tau protein aggregation and modulation of β-secretase (β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 - BACE-1) and γ-secretase proteases. BACE-1 cuts the amyloid precursor protein (APP) to release the C99 fragment, giving rise to several Aβ peptide species during the subsequent γ-secretase cleavage. In this way, BACE-1 has emerged as a clinically validated and attractive target in medicinal chemistry, as it plays a crucial role in the rate of Aβ generation. In this review, we report the main results of candidates in clinical trials such as E2609, MK8931, and AZD-3293, in addition to highlighting the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic-related effects of the inhibitors already reported. The current status of developing new peptidomimetic, non-peptidomimetic, naturally occurring, and other class inhibitors are demonstrated, considering their main limitations and lessons learned. The goal is to provide a broad and complete approach to the subject, exploring new chemical classes and perspectives.

The Impact of Radiolabeled Nanomaterials

Nanotechnology has changed the world, with a great impact on industry and medicine. In this commentary, we discuss the importance of radiolabeled nanomaterials for the construction of theranostic, imaging and therapeutic agents in order to pave the future of medicine.

Analysis of the conserved protective epitopes of hemagglutinin on influenza A viruses

The conserved protective epitopes of hemagglutinin (HA) are essential to the design of a universal influenza vaccine and new targeted therapeutic agents. Over the last 15 years, numerous broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) targeting the HA of influenza A viruses have been isolated from B lymphocytes of human donors and mouse models, and their binding epitopes identified. This work has brought new perspectives for identifying conserved protective epitopes of HA. In this review, we succinctly analyzed and summarized the antigenic epitopes and functions of more than 70 kinds of bnAb. The highly conserved protective epitopes are concentrated on five regions of HA: the hydrophobic groove, the receptor-binding site, the occluded epitope region of the HA monomers interface, the fusion peptide region, and the vestigial esterase subdomain. Our analysis clarifies the distribution of the conserved protective epitope regions on HA and provides distinct targets for the design of novel vaccines and therapeutics to combat influenza A virus infection.

The continuing need for therapeutic agents for respiratory syncytial virus infection

Respiratory syncytial virus infections recur throughout life despite induction of immunity by the first natural infection. An effective vaccine has long been sought but no vaccine is currently licensed, although promising candidates are currently being developed based on greater knowledge of the virus properties. However, there are significant populations that may not be protected adequately by a vaccine or are unable to be vaccinated. Thus, there is a continued need for effective therapeutic agents to treat the infection, especially in higher-risk individuals, a perspective presented in this article.

Ehrlichiosis in Dogs: A Comprehensive Review about the Pathogen and Its Vectors with Emphasis on South and East Asian Countries

Ehrlichiosis in dogs is an emerging vector borne rickettsial zoonotic disease of worldwide distribution. In general, three Ehrlichial species (Ehrlichia canis, E. ewingii, and E. chaffeensis) are involved in infecting dogs. Among them, E. canis is the well-known etiological pathogen affecting platelets, monocytes, and granulocytes. Dogs act as a reservoir, while the main vector responsible for disease transmission is Rhipicephalus sanguineus. However, in east Asian countries, Haemaphysalis longicornis is considered the principal vector for disease transmission. This disease affects multiple organs and systems and has three clinical manifestations, including acute, subclinical, and chronic. Definitive diagnosis involves visualization of morulae on cytology, detection of antibodies through an indirect immunofluorescence test (IFAT), and DNA amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In canine ehrlichiosis, no predilection of age or sex is observed; however, Siberian Huskies and German Shepherds are more likely to develop severe clinical manifestations. Doxycycline, rifampicin, and minocycline are proven to be effective drugs against canine ehrlichiosis. This review is intended to describe a brief overview of Ehrlichia infection in dogs, its reported prevalence in east and south Asian countries, and the latest knowledge regarding chemotherapy and associated vectors responsible for the disease transmission. This manuscript also identifies the prevailing knowledge gaps which merit further attention by the scientific community.

Evidence for Health-Promoting Properties of Lepidium sativum L.: An Updated Comprehensive Review

Lepidium sativum L. is a common herb distributed worldwide, used as a food ingredient and therapeutic agent in traditional medicine for treating health-related disorders. L. sativum and its extracts have been described to possess numerous biological activities including antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antidiarrheal, anticancer, and numerous health-promoting effects in in vivo and in vitro studies. The purpose of this review is to summarize the findings describing important biological functions and therapeutic effects of L. sativum in various cell lines and animal models. In this review, the English-language articles were gathered from electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar with no time limit applied to any database. The search terms used in this review include, "Lepidium sativum L." and/or "chemical composition", "health benefits", "antimicrobial", "antioxidant", "anticancer", "diuretic", "nephro-protection", "antidiarrheal", "antidiabetic", "anti-asthmatic", "neuroprotection", "metabolic", "bone fracture", and "reproductive performance". Additional and eligible studies were collected from reference lists of appropriate articles. The information presented will be helpful to attract more interest toward medicinal plants by defining and developing novel clinical applications and new drug formulations in the future. Pre-clinical studies showed that L. sativum possesses potent health-promoting effects involving various molecular mechanisms. Taken all together, data suggested that identified herbal plants such as L. sativum, can be exploited as nutritional and therapeutic agents to combat various ailments. Despite much research in this field, further comprehensive in vitro/in vivo studies and clinical trials are needed to identify the mechanisms underlying the biological and therapeutic activities of L. sativum.

Solid lipid nanoparticles: a promising tool for insulin delivery

INTRODUCTION

Insulin plays a critical role in metabolism modulation including carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism. There is room to improve insulin delivery but optimizing the best carrier remains challenging. Traditional and conventional approaches for insulin delivery do not emulate the normal fate of insulin release in the body. Despite extensive research attempts to overcome this and other challenges, the goal of achieving optimal insulin delivery that emulates the natural system remains unresolved.

AREAS COVERED

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) may provide a solution, because they are nontoxic, biocompatible, and straightforward to formulate thus providing a promising platform for achieving targeted and controlled delivery of various therapeutic agents. This review aims to provide an overview on the suitability and application of SLNs for insulin delivery. A special emphasis is placed on the biopharmaceutical aspects of insulin loaded SLNs which have not been explored in detail to date.

EXPERT OPINION

SLNs have proven to be safe and versatile drug delivery systems suitable for insulin delivery and capable of improving the efficacy and pharmacokinetic profile of encapsulated insulin. There is still some work to be done to fully explore SLNs' true potential as drug delivery and specifically insulin delivery vehicles suitable for clinical use.

Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Product, Organ Crosstalk, and Pathomechanism Targets for Comprehensive Molecular Therapeutics in Diabetic Ischemic Stroke

Diabetes mellitus, a well-established risk factor for stroke, is related to higher mortality and poorer outcomes following the stroke event. Advanced glycation end products(AGEs), their receptors RAGEs, other ligands, and several other processes contribute to the cerebrovascular pathomechanism interaction in the diabetes-ischemic stroke combination. Critical reappraisal of molecular targets and therapeutic agents to mitigate them is required to identify key elements for therapeutic interventions that may improve patient outcomes. This scoping review maps evidence on the key roles of AGEs, RAGEs, other ligands such as Leukotriene B4 (LTB4), High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) nuclear protein, brain-kidney-muscle crosstalk, alternate pathomechanisms in neurodegeneration, and cognitive decline related to diabetic ischemic stroke. RAGE, HMGB1, nitric oxide, and polyamine mechanisms are important therapeutic targets, inflicting common consequences of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Experimental findings on a number of existing-emerging therapeutic agents and natural compounds against key targets are promising. The lack of large clinical trials with adequate follow-up periods is a gap that requires addressing to validate the emerging therapeutic agents. Five therapeutic components, which include agents to mitigate the AGE-RAGE axis, improved biomarkers for risk stratification, better renal dysfunction management, adjunctive anti-inflammatory-antioxidant therapies, and innovative neuromuscular stimulation for rehabilitation, are identified. A comprehensive therapeutic strategy that features all the identified components is needed for outcome improvement in diabetic stroke patients.

Research progress on detachable microneedles for advanced applications

INTRODUCTION

Microneedles (MNs) have undergone great advances in transdermal drug delivery, and commercialized MN applications are currently available in vaccination and cosmetic products. Despite the development of MN technologies, common limitations of MN products still exist. Typical MN patches are applied to target tissues, where the substrate of an MN patch must remain until the drug is delivered, which reduces patients' compliance and hinders the applicability of the MN technique to many diseases in various tissues. MN research is ongoing to solve this issue.

AREAS COVERED

Most recent MNs developed by combining various biomaterials with appropriate fabrication processes are detachable MNs (DeMNs). Because of advances in biomaterials and fabrication techniques, various DeMNs have been rapidly developed. In this review, we discuss four types of DeMN: substrate-separable, multi-layered, crack-inducing, and shell DeMN. These DeMNs deliver various therapeutic agents ranging from small- and large-molecular-weight drugs to proteins and even stem cells for regeneration therapy. Furthermore, DeMNs are applied to skin as well as non-transdermal tissues.

EXPERT OPINION

It has become increasingly evident that novel MN technologies can be expected in terms of designs, fabrication methods, materials, and even possible application sites given the recent advances in DeMNs.

A Review of Twenty Years of Research on the Regulation of Signaling Pathways by Natural Products in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is the second leading cause of death among women, and it has become a global health issue due to the increasing number of cases. Different treatment options, including radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy and anti-estrogen therapy, aromatase inhibitors, anti-angiogenesis drugs, and anthracyclines, are available for BC treatment. However, due to its high occurrence and disease progression, effective therapeutic options for metastatic BC are still lacking. Considering this scenario, there is an urgent need for an effective therapeutic strategy to meet the current challenges of BC. Natural products have been screened as anticancer agents as they are cost-effective, possess low toxicity and fewer side effects, and are considered alternative therapeutic options for BC therapy. Natural products showed anticancer activities against BC through the inhibition of angiogenesis, cell migrations, proliferations, and tumor growth; cell cycle arrest by inducing apoptosis and cell death, the downstream regulation of signaling pathways (such as Notch, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, and NFAT-MDM2), and the regulation of EMT processes. Natural products also acted synergistically to overcome the drug resistance issue, thus improving their efficacy as an emerging therapeutic option for BC therapy. This review focused on the emerging roles of novel natural products and derived bioactive compounds as therapeutic agents against BC. The present review also discussed the mechanism of action through signaling pathways and the synergistic approach of natural compounds to improve their efficacy. We discussed the recent in vivo and in vitro studies for exploring the overexpression of oncogenes in the case of BC and the current status of newly discovered natural products in clinical investigations.

Effect of pharmacological interventions on lipid profiles and C-reactive protein in polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous condition affecting women of reproductive age. It is associated with dyslipidaemia and elevated plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), which increase the risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

OBJECTIVE

To review the existing evidence on the effects of different pharmacological interventions on lipid profiles and CRP of women with PCOS.

DATA SOURCES

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science in April 2020 and updated the results in March 2021.

STUDY SELECTION

The study included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and follows the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

DATA EXTRACTION

Two independent researchers extracted data and assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Covidence systematic review software were used for blinded screening and study selection.

DATA SYNTHESIS

In 29 RCTs, there were significant reductions in triglycerides with atorvastatin versus placebo [mean difference (MD): -0.21 mmol/L; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.39, -0.03, I²  = 0%, moderate grade evidence]. Significant reductions were seen for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with metformin versus placebo [standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.41; 95% CI: -0.85, 0.02, I²  = 59%, low grade evidence]. Significant reductions were also seen for total cholesterol with saxagliptin versus metformin (MD: -0.15 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.23, -0.08, I²  = 0%, very low grade evidence). Significant reductions in C-reactive protein (CRP) were seen for atorvastatin versus placebo (MD: -1.51 mmol/L; 95% CI: -3.26 to 0.24, I²  = 75%, very low-grade evidence).

CONCLUSION

There were significant reductions in the lipid parameters when metformin, atorvastatin, saxagliptin, rosiglitazone and pioglitazone were compared with placebo or other agents. There was also a significant reduction of CRP with atorvastatin.

The NLRP3 Inflammasome in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Steatohepatitis: Therapeutic Targets and Treatment

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is among the most prevalent primary liver diseases worldwide and can develop into various conditions, ranging from simple steatosis, through non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), to fibrosis, and eventually cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Nevertheless, there is no effective treatment for NAFLD due to the complicated etiology. Recently, activation of the NLPR3 inflammasome has been demonstrated to be a contributing factor in the development of NAFLD, particularly as a modulator of progression from initial hepatic steatosis to NASH. NLRP3 inflammasome, as a caspase-1 activation platform, is critical for processing key pro-inflammatory cytokines and pyroptosis. Various stimuli involved in NAFLD can activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, depending on the diverse cellular stresses that they cause. NLRP3 inflammasome-related inhibitors and agents for NAFLD treatment have been tested and demonstrated positive effects in experimental models. Meanwhile, some drugs have been applied in clinical studies, supporting this therapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss the activation, biological functions, and treatment targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome in the context of NAFLD progression. Specifically, we focus on the different types of therapeutic agents that can inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome and summarize their pharmacological effectiveness for NAFLD treatment.

Extracellular Vesicles and Acute Kidney Injury: Potential Therapeutic Avenue for Renal Repair and Regeneration

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decline of renal function and represents a global clinical problem due to an elevated morbidity and mortality. Despite many efforts, currently there are no treatments to halt this devastating condition. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoparticles secreted by various cell types in both physiological and pathological conditions. EVs can arise from distinct parts of the kidney and can mediate intercellular communication between various cell types along the nephron. Besides their potential as diagnostic tools, EVs have been proposed as powerful new tools for regenerative medicine and have been broadly studied as therapeutic mediators in different models of experimental AKI. In this review, we present an overview of the basic features and biological relevance of EVs, with an emphasis on their functional role in cell-to-cell communication in the kidney. We explore versatile roles of EVs in crucial pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to AKI and give a detailed description of the renoprotective effects of EVs from different origins in AKI. Finally, we explain known mechanisms of action of EVs in AKI and provide an outlook on the potential clinical translation of EVs in the setting of AKI.

Potential therapeutic strategies to combat HCC

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex, life threatening and most common neoplasm in the world. HCC tumors are genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous and involve various molecular mechanisms and stimulation of several signaling pathways such as Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors (EGFR), Insulin growth factor, Ras/extracellular signal-stimulated kinase, mammalian goal of rapamycin (mTOR), c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor-1 (c-Met), Hedgehog, Wnt and apoptotic signaling. Lately, in patient's multi-kinase cascade blockers such as sorafenib, selumetinib and regorafenib have increased survival rate of progressive HCC. This development presents a step forward towards the therapy of liver cancer infection and attests that molecular systemic rehabilitations can be useful in HCC treatment. The development of these systemic therapeutic agents has further expanded the research area for surplus molecular mediators to auxiliary increase cure rate of patients. This article reviews the complete consideration of focus on cascades, current enduring clinical tests by means of HCC therapeutic mediators, and imminent prospects in the cure of HCC.

Platinum-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (PIPN): ROS-Related Mechanism, Therapeutic Agents, and Nanosystems

Platinum (Pt) drugs (e.g., oxaliplatin, cisplatin) are applied in the clinic worldwide for the treatment of various cancers. However, platinum-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) caused by the accumulation of Pt in the peripheral nervous system limits the clinical application, whose prevention and treatment are still a huge challenge. To date, Pt-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation has been studied as one of the primary mechanisms of PIPN, whose downregulation would be feasible to relieve PIPN. This review will discuss ROS-related PIPN mechanisms including Pt accumulation in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG), ROS generation, and cellular regulation. Based on them, some antioxidant therapeutic drugs will be summarized in detail to alleviate the Pt-induced ROS overproduction. More importantly, we focus on the cutting-edge nanotechnology in view of ROS-related PIPN mechanisms and will discuss the rational fabrication of tailor-made nanosystems for efficiently preventing and treating PIPN. Last, the future prospects and potential breakthroughs of these anti-ROS agents and nanosystems will be briefly discussed.

Effects and mechanisms of dietary bioactive compounds on breast cancer prevention

Breast cancer (BC) is the most often diagnosed cancer among females globally and has become an increasing global health issue over the last decades. Despite the substantial improvement in screening methods for initial diagnosis, effective therapy remains lacking. Still, there has been high recurrence and disease progression after treatment of surgery, endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Considering this view, there is a crucial requirement to develop safe, freely accessible, and effective anticancer therapy for BC. The dietary bioactive compounds as auspicious anticancer agents have been recognized to be active and their implications in the treatment of BC with negligible side effects. Hence, this review focused on various dietary bioactive compounds as potential therapeutic agents in the prevention and treatment of BC with the mechanisms of action. Bioactive compounds have chemo-preventive properties as they inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, downregulate the expression of estrogen receptors, and cell cycle arrest by inducing apoptotic settings in tumor cells. Therapeutic drugs or natural compounds generally incorporate engineered nanoparticles with ideal sizes, shapes, and enhance their solubility, circulatory half-life, and biodistribution. All data of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies of dietary bioactive compounds and their impact on BC were collected from Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The data of chemopreventive and anticancer activity of dietary bioactive compounds were collected and orchestrated in a suitable place in the review. These shreds of data will be extremely beneficial to recognize a series of additional diet-derived bioactive compounds to treat BC with the lowest side effects.

Metal Sulfide Semiconductor Nanomaterials and Polymer Microgels for Biomedical Applications

The development of nanomaterials with therapeutic and/or diagnostic properties has been an active area of research in biomedical sciences over the past decade. Nanomaterials have been identified as significant medical tools with potential therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities that are practically impossible to accomplish using larger molecules or bulk materials. Fabrication of nanomaterials is the most effective platform to engineer therapeutic agents and delivery systems for the treatment of cancer. This is mostly due to the high selectivity of nanomaterials for cancerous cells, which is attributable to the porous morphology of tumour cells which allows nanomaterials to accumulate more in tumour cells more than in normal cells. Nanomaterials can be used as potential drug delivery systems since they exist in similar scale as proteins. The unique properties of nanomaterials have drawn a lot of interest from researchers in search of new chemotherapeutic treatment for cancer. Metal sulfide nanomaterials have emerged as the most used frameworks in the past decade, but they tend to aggregate because of their high surface energy which triggers the thermodynamically favoured interaction. Stabilizing agents such as polymer and microgels have been utilized to inhibit the particles from any aggregations. In this review, we explore the development of metal sulfide polymer/microgel nanocomposites as therapeutic agents against cancerous cells.

Role of microRNAs in Obesity-Related Kidney Disease

Obesity is a major global health problem and is associated with a significant risk of renal function decline. Obesity-related nephropathy, as one of the complications of obesity, is characterized by a structural and functional damage of the kidney and represents one of the important contributors to the morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite increasing data linking hyperlipidemia and lipotoxicity to kidney injury, the apprehension of molecular mechanisms leading to a development of kidney damage is scarce. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenously produced small noncoding RNA molecules with an important function in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. miRNAs have been demonstrated to be important regulators of a vast array of physiological and pathological processes in many organs, kidney being one of them. In this review, we present an overview of miRNAs, focusing on their functional role in the pathogenesis of obesity-associated renal pathologies. We explain novel findings regarding miRNA-mediated signaling in obesity-related nephropathies and highlight advantages and future perspectives of the therapeutic application of miRNAs in renal diseases.

Extracellular Vesicle-Based Therapy for COVID-19: Promises, Challenges and Future Prospects

The COVID-19 pandemic has become a serious concern and has negatively impacted public health and the economy. It primarily targets the lungs, causing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, it may also lead to multiple organ failure (MOF) and enhanced mortality rates. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop potential effective therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 patients. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released from various types of cells that participate in intercellular communication to maintain physiological and pathological processes. EVs derived from various cellular origins have revealed suppressive effects on the cytokine storm during systemic hyper-inflammatory states of severe COVID-19, leading to enhanced alveolar fluid clearance, promoted epithelial and endothelial recovery, and cell proliferation. Being the smallest subclass of EVs, exosomes offer striking characteristics such as cell targeting, being nano-carriers for drug delivery, high biocompatibility, safety, and low-immunogenicity, thus rendering them a potential cell-free therapeutic candidate against the pathogeneses of various diseases. Due to these properties, numerous studies and clinical trials have been performed to assess their safety and therapeutic efficacy against COVID-19. Hence, in this review, we have comprehensively described current updates on progress and challenges for EVs as a potential therapeutic agent for the management of COVID-19.

The Role of Distinct Subsets of Macrophages in the Pathogenesis of MS and the Impact of Different Therapeutic Agents on These Populations

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). Besides the vital role of T cells, other immune cells, including B cells, innate immune cells, and macrophages (MФs), also play a critical role in MS pathogenesis. Tissue-resident MФs in the brain’s parenchyma, known as microglia and monocyte-derived MФs, enter into the CNS following alterations in CNS homeostasis that induce inflammatory responses in MS. Although the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory actions of monocyte-derived MФs and resident MФs are required to maintain CNS tolerance, they can release inflammatory cytokines and reactivate primed T cells during neuroinflammation. In the CNS of MS patients, elevated myeloid cells and activated MФs have been found and associated with demyelination and axonal loss. Thus, according to the role of MФs in neuroinflammation, they have attracted attention as a therapeutic target. Also, due to their different origin, location, and turnover, other strategies may require to target the various myeloid cell populations. Here we review the role of distinct subsets of MФs in the pathogenesis of MS and different therapeutic agents that target these cells.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Magnetic Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Complicated Ocular Disorders

Nanomaterials provide enormous opportunities to overcome the limitations of conventional ocular delivery systems, such as low therapeutic efficacy, side effects due to the systemic exposure, or invasive surgery. Apart from the more common ocular disorders, there are some genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, that develop ocular disorders as secondary effects as long as the disease progresses. These patients are more difficult to be pharmacologically treated using conventional drug routes (topically, systemic), since specific pharmacological formulations can be incompatible, display increased toxicity, or their therapeutic efficacy decreases with the administration of different kind of chemical molecules. Magnetic nanoparticles can be used as potent drug carriers and magnetic hyperthermia agents due to their response to an external magnetic field. Drugs can be concentrated in the target point, limiting the damage to other tissues. The other advantage of these magnetic nanoparticles is that they can act as magnetic resonance imaging agents, allowing the detection of the exact location of the disease. However, there are some drawbacks related to their use in drug delivery, such as the limitation to maintain efficacy in the target organ once the magnetic field is removed from outside. Another disadvantage is the difficulty in maintaining the therapeutic action in three dimensions inside the human body. This review summarizes all the application possibilities related to magnetic nanoparticles in ocular diseases.

An Overview of NO Signaling Pathways in Aging

Nitric Oxide (NO) is a potent signaling molecule involved in the regulation of various cellular mechanisms and pathways under normal and pathological conditions. NO production, its effects, and its efficacy, are extremely sensitive to aging-related changes in the cells. Herein, we review the mechanisms of NO signaling in the cardiovascular system, central nervous system (CNS), reproduction system, as well as its effects on skin, kidneys, thyroid, muscles, and on the immune system during aging. The aging-related decline in NO levels and bioavailability is also discussed in this review. The decreased NO production by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was revealed in the aged cardiovascular system. In the CNS, the decline of the neuronal (n)NOS production of NO was related to the impairment of memory, sleep, and cognition. NO played an important role in the aging of oocytes and aged-induced erectile dysfunction. Aging downregulated NO signaling pathways in endothelial cells resulting in skin, kidney, thyroid, and muscle disorders. Putative therapeutic agents (natural/synthetic) affecting NO signaling mechanisms in the aging process are discussed in the present study. In summary, all of the studies reviewed demonstrate that NO plays a crucial role in the cellular aging processes.

Identification and Exploration of Novel Macrophage M2-Related Biomarkers and Potential Therapeutic Agents in Endometriosis

Endometriosis (EM) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disorder that is associated with pain and infertility that affects ∼10% of reproductive-age women. The pathophysiology and etiology of EM remain poorly understood, and diagnostic delays are common. Exploration of the underlying molecular mechanism, as well as novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets, is urgently needed. Inflammation is known to play a key role in the development of lesions, which are a defining feature of the disorder. In our research, the CIBERSORT and WGCNA algorithms were used to establish a weighted gene co-expression network and to identify macrophage-related hub genes using data downloaded from the GEO database (GSE11691, 7305). The analysis identified 1,157 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in EM lesions, of which five were identified as being related to M2 macrophages and were validated as differentially expressed by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Of these putative novel biomarker genes, bridging integrator 2 (BIN2), chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5), and macrophage mannose receptor 1 (MRC1) were upregulated, while spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) and metalloproteinase 12 (ADAM12) were downregulated in ectopic endometria vs. normal endometria. Meanwhile, 23 potentially therapeutic small molecules for EM were obtained from the cMAP database, among which topiramate, isoflupredone, adiphenine, dexverapamil, MS-275, and celastrol were the top six molecules with the highest absolute enrichment values. This is our first attempt to use the CIBERSORT and WGCNA algorithms for the identification of novel Mϕ2 macrophage-related biomarkers of EM. Our findings provide novel insights into the impact of immune cells on the etiology of EM; nevertheless, further investigation of these key genes and therapeutic drugs is needed to validate their effects on EM.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 natural animal reservoirs and experimental models: systematic review

The current severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak has been rapidly spreading worldwide, causing serious global concern. The role that animal hosts play in disease transmission is still understudied and researchers wish to find suitable animal models for fundamental research and drug discovery. In this systematic review, we aimed to compile and discuss all articles that describe experimental or natural infections with SARS-CoV-2, from the initial discovery of the virus in December 2019 through to October 2020. We systematically searched four databases (Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct and Web of Science). The following data were extracted from the included studies: type of infection (natural or experimental), age, sample numbers, dose, route of inoculation, viral replication, detection method, clinical symptoms and transmission. Fifty-four studies were included, of which 34 were conducted on animal reservoirs (naturally or experimentally infected), and 20 involved models for testing vaccines and therapeutics. Our search revealed that Rousettus aegyptiacus (fruit bats), pangolins, felines, mink, ferrets and rabbits were all susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, while dogs were weakly susceptible and pigs, poultry, and tree shrews were not. In addition, virus replication in mice, mink, hamsters and ferrets resembled subclinical human infection, so these animals might serve as useful models for future studies to evaluate vaccines or antiviral agents and to study host-pathogen interactions. Our review comprehensively summarized current evidence on SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals and their usefulness as models for studying vaccines and antiviral drugs. Our findings may direct future studies for vaccine development, antiviral drugs and therapeutic agents to manage SARS-CoV-2-caused diseases.

Therapeutic Targeting of the Leukaemia Microenvironment

In recent decades, the conduct of uniform prospective clinical trials has led to improved remission rates and survival for patients with acute myeloid leukaemia and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. However, high-risk patients continue to have inferior outcomes, where chemoresistance and relapse are common due to the survival mechanisms utilised by leukaemic cells. One such mechanism is through hijacking of the bone marrow microenvironment, where healthy haematopoietic machinery is transformed or remodelled into a hiding ground or "sanctuary" where leukaemic cells can escape chemotherapy-induced cytotoxicity. The bone marrow microenvironment, which consists of endosteal and vascular niches, can support leukaemogenesis through intercellular "crosstalk" with niche cells, including mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. Here, we summarise the regulatory mechanisms associated with leukaemia-bone marrow niche interaction and provide a comprehensive review of the key therapeutics that target CXCL12/CXCR4, Notch, Wnt/b-catenin, and hypoxia-related signalling pathways within the leukaemic niches and agents involved in remodelling of niche bone and vasculature. From a therapeutic perspective, targeting these cellular interactions is an exciting novel strategy for enhancing treatment efficacy, and further clinical application has significant potential to improve the outcome of patients with leukaemia.

Therapeutic Agents Against COVID-19 with Clinical Evidence

Over 57 million people have been confirmed to have coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide. Although several drugs have shown potential therapeutic effects, there is no specific drug against COVID-19. In this review, we summarized potential therapeutic agents against COVID-19 with clinical evidence, including antiviral agents, anti-cytokine storm syndrome agents, and vaccines, as well as other drugs. In addition, we briefly discussed their effects on COVID-19, which will contribute to developing treatment plans.

Natural products: A lead for drug discovery and development

Natural products are used since ancient times in folklore for the treatment of various ailments. Plant-derived products have been recognized for many years as a source of therapeutic agents and structural diversity. A literature survey has been carried out to determine the utility of natural molecules and their modified analogs or derivatives as pharmacological active entities. This review presents a study on the importance of natural products in terms of drug discovery and development. It describes how the natural components can be utilized after small modifications in new perspectives. Various new modifications in structure offer a unique opportunity to establish a new molecular entity with better pharmacological potential. It was concluded that in this current era, new attempts are taken to utilize the compounds derived from natural sources as novel drug candidates, with a focus to find and discover new effective molecules that were referred to as "new entities of natural product drug discovery."

Extracellular Vesicles and Renal Fibrosis: An Odyssey toward a New Therapeutic Approach

Renal fibrosis is a complex disorder characterized by the destruction of kidney parenchyma. There is currently no cure for this devastating condition. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membranous vesicles released from cells in both physiological and diseased states. Given their fundamental role in transferring biomolecules to recipient cells and their ability to cross biological barriers, EVs have been widely investigated as potential cell-free therapeutic agents. In this review, we provide an overview of EVs, focusing on their functional role in renal fibrosis and signaling messengers responsible for EV-mediated crosstalk between various renal compartments. We explore recent findings regarding the renoprotective effect of EVs and their use as therapeutic agents in renal fibrosis. We also highlight advantages and future perspectives of the therapeutic applications of EVs in renal diseases.

Potential therapeutic applications of phytoconstituents as immunomodulators: Pre-clinical and clinical evidences

Autoimmune and infectious diseases are the major public health issues and have gained great attention in the last few years for the search of new agents with therapeutic benefits on the host immune functions. In recent years, natural products (NPs) have been studied broadly for their multi-targeted activities under pathological conditions. Interestingly, several attempts have been made to outline the immunomodulatory properties of NPs. Research on in-vitro and in-vivo models have shown the immunomodulatory activity of NPs, is due to their antiinflammatory property, induction of phagocytosis and immune cells stimulation activity. Moreover, studies on humans have suggested that phytomedicines reduce inflammation and could provide appropriate benefits either in single form or complex combinations with other agents preventing disease progression, subsequently enhancing the efficacy of treatment to combat multiple malignancies. However, the exact mechanism of immunomodulation is far from clear, warranting more detailed investigations on their effectiveness. Nevertheless, the reduction of inflammatory cascades is considered as a prime protective mechanism in a number of inflammation regulated autoimmune diseases. Altogether, this review will discuss the biological activities of plant-derived secondary metabolites, such as polyphenols, alkaloids, saponins, polysaccharides and so forth, against various diseases and their potential use as an immunomodulatory agent under pathological conditions.

Tackling Immune Targets for Breast Cancer: Beyond PD-1/PD-L1 Axis

The burden of breast cancer is imposing a huge global problem. Drug discovery research and novel approaches to treat breast cancer have been carried out extensively over the last decades. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors are showing promising preclinical and clinical results in treating breast cancer, they are facing multiple limitations. From an immunological perspective, a recent report highlighted breast cancer as an "inflamed tumor" with an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Consequently, researchers have been focusing on identifying novel immunological targets that can tune up the tumor immune microenvironment. In this context, several novel non-classical immune targets have been targeted to determine their ability to uncouple immunoregulatory pathways at play in the tumor microenvironment. This article will highlight strategies designed to increase the immunogenicity of the breast tumor microenvironment. It also addresses the latest studies on targets which can enhance immune responses to breast cancer and discusses examples of preclinical and clinical trial landscapes that utilize these targets.