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Hyaluronic acid is composed of repeating sugar units, glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine, which are often associated with increased tumor progression. Urtica dioica agglutinin is a potential component that exhibits a high affinity for binding to N-acetylglucosamine. This study aimed to investigate U. dioica Agglutininʼs potential to inhibit the proliferation and migration of prostate cancer cells with high expression of hyaluronic acid through molecular docking and in vitro studies. The expression of hyaluronan synthase genes in prostate tissue and cell lines was checked by an in silico study, and the interaction between hyaluronic acid with both CD44 transmembrane glycoprotein and U. dioica agglutinin was analyzed through molecular docking. U. dioica Agglutininʼs effect on cell viability (neutral red uptake assay), migration (scratch wound healing assays), and both CD44 and Nanog expression (quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction) were assessed in vitro. The results showed that in prostate cancer cell lines, the PC3 cell line has the highest expression of hyaluronan synthase genes. U. dioica agglutinin exhibits an interaction of six specific residues on CD44 compared to hyaluronic acidʼs singular residue. While U. dioica agglutinin alone effectively reduced cell viability and wound closer (≥ 150 µg/mL), combining it with hyaluronic acid significantly shifted the effective concentration to a higher dose (≥ 350 µg/mL). These results, together with low Nanog and high CD44 gene expression, suggest that U. dioica agglutinin may impair the CD44-HA pathway in PC3 cells. This possibility is supported by U. dioica Agglutininʼs ability to compete with hyaluronic acid for binding to CD44. Based on this, U. dioica agglutinin as a plant lectin shows promise in inhibiting cancer proliferation and migration by targeting its dependence on hyaluronic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Derris scandens , which contains isoflavones and prenylated derivatives, has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and is an ingredient in traditional Thai medicine for perimenopause and menopause. However, the estrogenic activity of D. scandens has not yet been explored. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the estrogenic activity of the stem extract of D. scandens and its isoflavone derivatives. In this study, we conducted a proliferation assay in MCF-7 cells, and used quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to assess gene expression. We found that the relative cell proliferation of the compounds (1 µM) was ranked in the following order as compared to 0.1 nM 17 β -estradiol (100%): genistein (97.84%) > derrisisoflavone A (83.17%) > genistein-7- O -[ α -rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 6)-glucopyranoside] (69.55%) > 6,8-diprenylgenistein (51.91%) > lupalbigenin (18.72%). Furthermore, cotreatment with 1 µM lupalbigenin and 0.1 nM 17 β -estradiol was performed, which decreased cell proliferation to 80.38%. In vitro results suggest that lupalbigenin has an estrogen-antagonistic effect. At a dose of 1 µM, genistein had the strongest efficacy in increasing the expression of human estrogen receptor β by 4.0-fold compared to the control. Furthermore, genistein-7- O -[ α -rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 6)]- β -glucopyranoside augmented the gene expression of human estrogen receptor α and human estrogen receptor β by 1.5- and 3.4-fold, respectively. Prenylated derivatives of genistein (derrisisoflavone A, 6,8-diprenylgenistein, and lupalbigenin) significantly suppressed the gene expression of the human androgen receptor. The administration of the crude extract at 10 µg/mL significantly suppressed human androgen receptor (0.6-fold) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (0.1-fold) expression but did not significantly affect human estrogen receptor α and human estrogen receptor β gene expression. This herbal medicine may be safe for estrogen-exposed breast cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is one of the biggest health concerns with a complex pathophysiology. Currently, available chemotherapeutic drugs are showing deleterious side effects, and tumors often show resistance to treatment. Hence, extensive research is required to develop new treatment strategies to fight against cancer. Natural resources from plants are at the forefront of hunting novel drugs to treat various types of cancers. Withaferin A (WA) is a naturally occurring withanolide, a biologically active component obtained from the plant Ashwagandha. Various in vitro and in vivo oncological studies have reported that Withaferin A (WA) has shown protection from cancer. WA shows its activity by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of malignant cells, apoptosis, and inhibiting angiogenesis, metastasis, and cancer stem cells (CSCs). In addition, WA also showed chemo- and radio-sensitizing properties. Besides the beneficiary pharmacological activities of WA, a few aspects like pharmacokinetic properties, safety, and toxicity studies are still lacking, hindering this potent natural product from entering clinical development. In this review, we have summarized the various pharmacological mechanisms shown by WA in in vitro and in vivo cancer studies and the challenges that must be overcome for this potential natural productʼs clinical translation to be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better use the Lecythis pisonis Cambess. biomass, this study investigates whether Sapucaia seed coats present wound healing properties. We analyzed the antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound healing-promoting potentials, plus cytotoxicity and stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor-A. The chemical composition was analyzed by positive ion mode electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. A total of 19 compounds were identified, such as proanthocyanidin A1, procyanidins A1, B2, and C1, epigallocatechin, and kaempferol (p -coumaroyl) glycoside. Potent antioxidant strength/index was verified for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (IC50 = 0.99 µg/mL) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (IC50 = 1.09 µg/mL). The extract did not present cytotoxicity and promoted significant cell migration and/or proliferation of fibroblasts (p < 0.05). Vascular endothelial growth factor-A was stimulated dose-dependently at 6 µg/mL (167.13 ± 8.30 pg/mL), 12.5 µg/mL (210.3 ± 14.2 pg/mL), and 25 µg/mL (411.6 ± 29.4 pg/mL). Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) (0.002 µg/mL) was stimulated at 215.98 pg/mL. Staphylococcus aureus was susceptible to the extract, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 31.25 µg/mL. The identified compounds benefit the antioxidant activity, promoting hemostasis for the wound healing process, indicating that this extract has the potential for use in dermatological cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukemia, despite currently being one of the most lethal cancers worldwide, still lacks a focused treatment. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the pharmacological effect of 1-methoxyerythrabyssin II, a pterocarpan identified in the roots of Lespedeza bicolor , on leukemic cells and to explore its underlying mechanism using a network pharmacology strategy. 1-Methoxyerythrabyssin II showed an antiproliferative effect in a concentration-dependent manner and exhibited a higher potency in human acute leukemia T cells (Jurkat). The G1 phase arrest induced by 1-methoxyerythrabyssin II was confirmed using a cell cycle assay, and the downregulation of CDK2 and cyclin D1 was observed using an immunoblot assay. Moreover, 1-methoxyerythrabyssin II-treated cells exhibited higher expression levels of LC3B, Atg-7, and Beclin 1 in addition to an enhanced fluorescence intensity in monodansylcadaverine staining, indicating autophagy induction by 1-methoxyerythrabyssin II. Furthermore, network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses revealed that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is a potential target of 1-methoxyerythrabyssin II in leukemic cells. In vitro assays further demonstrated that 1-methoxyerythrabyssin II promoted autophagy and suppressed cell proliferation by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in leukemic cells. This discovery will contribute to the development of novel therapeutics and prophylactics against leukemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document titled "What's new FOR YOU!" provides information on various beauty and skincare products. It includes details on nail polish, mascara, lip mask, moisturizing lotion, hair mist, eau de toilette, scalp oil, serum, micellar milk, body scrub, curl refresh spray, wrinkle filler, glycolic acid toner, deodorant stick, and night oil. The document highlights the features and benefits of each product, such as long-lasting nail polish, volumizing mascara, soothing lip mask, moisturizing lotion with SPF, repairing hair mist, uplifting eau de toilette, scalp and hair strengthening oil, skin-healing serum, makeup remover, body scrub, curl refresher, wrinkle-filling cream, exfoliating toner, natural deodorant, and retinol-infused night oil. [Extracted from the article]

This review describes the chemical composition of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and its general health effects, as well as the currently available knowledge concerning its action on the female reproductive state, functions on the ovary and ovarian cells and reproductive hormones, as well as possible constituents and extra- and intracellular mediators mediating its effects on female reproductive processes. Flaxseed contains a number of biologically active molecules, which, acting through multiple signalling pathways, can determine numerous physiological, protective and therapeutic effects of flaxseed. The available publications demonstrate the action of flaxseed and its constituents on the female reproductive system – ovarian growth, follicle development, the resulting puberty and reproductive cycles, ovarian cell proliferation and apoptosis, oo- and embryogenesis, hormonal regulators of reproductive processes and their dysfunctions. These effects can be determined by flaxseed lignans, alpha-linolenic acid and their products. Their actions can be mediated by changes in general metabolism, metabolic and reproductive hormones, their binding proteins, receptors and several intracellular signalling pathways, including protein kinases, transcription factors regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis and malignant transformation. Flaxseed and its active molecules are found potentially useful for improving farm animal reproductive efficiency and treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome and ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• UV-responsive chitosan (CSMA) could be in-situ mineralized by CO 2 diffusion. • Mineralized CSMA as filling material incorporated into internal pores of Ti implants. • Ti implants filled with mineralized CSMA promoted osteogenesis of BMSCs. The modification of 3D printed porous titanium (Ti), especially for the internal pore structure, is critical and has received more attention to promoting its osteogenesis for clinical use. Ultra-violet (UV) responsive chitosan (CSMA), as an injectable filling material, was firstly incorporated into porous Ti, and then CSMA was in-situ mineralized by carbon oxide (CO 2) diffusion (CSMA/CaCO 3). Their physical-chemical and biological properties were investigated in vitro. CaCO 3 crystals within CSMA hydrogels were successfully deposited into pores of porous Ti, which exhibited favorable biocompatibility. Ti implants filled with CSMA/CaCO 3 promoted adhesion and proliferation of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Moreover, Ti implant filled CSMA/CaCO 3 hydrogels could increase alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities, up-regulate osteopontin (OPN) and osteocalcin (OCN) expression levels, and enhance extracellular mineralization. 3D printed porous Ti filled with mineralized UV-responsive chitosan hydrogel could promote proliferation and osteogenesis of BMSCs, and have great potential for the modification of porous Ti implants in bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guttiferone E (GE) is a benzophenone found in Brazilian red propolis. In the present study, the effect of GE on human (A-375) and murine (B16-F10) melanoma cells was investigated. GE significantly reduced the cellular viability of melanoma cells in a time-dependent manner. In addition, GE demonstrated antiproliferative effect, with IC50 values equivalent to 9.0 and 6.6 µM for A-375 and B16-F10 cells, respectively. The treatment of A-375 cells with GE significantly increased cell populations in G0/G1 phase and decreased those in G2/M phase. Conversely, on B16-F10 cells, GE led to a significant decrease in the populations of cells in G0/G1 phase and concomitantly an increase in the population of cells in phase S. A significantly higher percentage of apoptotic cells was observed in A-375 (43.5%) and B16-F10 (49.9%) cultures after treatment with GE. Treatments with GE caused morphological changes and significant decrease to the melanoma cellsʼ density. GE (10 µM) inhibited the migration of melanoma cells, with a higher rate of inhibition in B16-F10 cells (73.4%) observed. In addition, GE significantly reduced the adhesion of A375 cells, but showed no effect on B16-F10. Treatment with GE did not induce changes in P53 levels in A375 cultures. Molecular docking calculations showed that GE is stable in the active sites of the tubulin dimer with a similar energy to taxol chemotherapy. Taken together, the data suggest that GE has promising antineoplastic potential against melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides information on a natural antibiotic called MSI-1436 that could be used to heal and regrow body parts. It explains how the compound removes restrictions on the body's natural ability to regenerate cells before discussing its original intention as medicine for diabetes and obesity.

Objectives. To characterize the distribution profile of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus infections in Latin America and the Caribbean and to identify possible factors associated with the risk of dissemination and severity of these arboviruses. Methods. The protocol of this review was registered on the PROSPERO platform. Searches were carried out in the following databases: Virtual Health Library, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Embase. The search terms were: Zika virus, Zika virus infection, dengue, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, chikungunya fever, epidemiology, observational study, Latin America, and Caribbean region. Studies that addressed the distribution of these arboviruses and the risk factors associated with dengue, Zika virus disease, and chikungunya, published between January 2000 and August 2020 in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, were included. Results. Of 95 studies included, 70 identified risk factors, clinical manifestations, and outcomes for arbovirus infections and 25 described complications and/or deaths. The highest frequency of confirmed cases was for dengue. Brazil reported most cases of the three arboviruses in the period analyzed. Environmental and socioeconomic factors facilitated the proliferation and adaptation of vectors, and host-related factors were reported to aggravate dengue. Most deaths were due to chikungunya, Zika virus disease caused most neurological alterations, and dengue resulted in greater morbidity leading to more frequent hospitalization. Conclusions. The review provides a broad view of the three arboviruses and the intrinsic aspects of infections, and highlights the factors that influence the spread of these viruses in the populations studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing incidence of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and limited treatment options stimulate a pressing demand for research and the development of new chemotherapeutics against cholangiocarcinoma. This study aimed to systematically review herbs and herb-derived compounds or herbal formulations that have been investigated for their anti-cholangiocarcinoma potential. Systematic literature searches were conducted in three electronic databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. One hundred and twenty-three research articles fulfilled the eligibility critera and were included in the analysis (68 herbs, isolated compounds and/or synthetic analogs, 9 herbal formulations, and 119 compounds that are commonly found in several plant species). The most investigated herbs were Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) and Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae). Only A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) has undergone the full process of nonclinical and clinical development to deliver the final product for clinical use. The extracts of A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae), Garcinia hanburyi Hook.f. (Clusiaceae), and Piper nigrum L. (Piperaceae) exhibit antiproliferative activities against human cholangiocarcinoma cells (IC50 < 15 µg/mL). Cucurbitacin B and triptolide are herbal isolated compounds that exhibit the most promising activities (IC50 < 1 µM). A series of experimental studies (in vitro, in vivo , and humans) confirmed the anti-cholangiocarcinoma potential and safety profile of A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) and its active compounds atractylodin and β -eudesmol, including the capsule pharmaceutical of the standardized A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) extract. Future research should be focused on the full development of the candidate herbs to deliver products that are safe and effective for cholangiocarcinoma control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two iboga-vobasine bisindoles, 16′-decarbomethoxyvoacamine (1) and its 19,20-dihydro derivative, 16′-decarbomethoxydihydrovoacamine (2) from Tabernaemontana corymbosa exhibited potent cytotoxicity against the human colorectal adenocarcinoma HT-29 cells in our previous studies. Bisindoles 1 and 2 selectively inhibited the growth of HT-29 cells without significant cytotoxicity to normal human colon fibroblasts CCD-18Co. Treatment with bisindoles 1 and 2 suppressed the formation of HT-29 colonies via G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and induction of mitochondrial apoptosis. Owing to its higher antiproliferative activity, bisindole 2 was chosen for the subsequent studies. Bisindole 2 inhibited the formation of HT-29 spheroids (tumor-like cell aggregates) in 3D experiments in a dose-dependent manner, while an in vitro tubulin polymerization assay and molecular docking analysis showed that bisindole 2 is a microtubule-stabilizing agent which is predicted to bind at the β -tubulin subunit at the taxol-binding site. The binding resulted in the generation of ROS, which consequently activated the oxidative stress-related cell cycle arrest and apoptotic pathways, viz., JNK/p38, p21Cip1 /Chk1, and p21Cip1 /Rb/E2F, as shown by microarray profiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on immunosuppressed renal transplant recipients with persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Topics include sequencing of the patient's virus at day 32 identifying a de novo V7921 mutation in RdRp, as well as two other mutations; and Remdesivir is a prodrug of a nucleoside analog after conversion to the active triphosphate inhibiting viral RdRp activity.

The article discusses a clinical trial, NCT06627595, focusing on the impact of physical activity on immunotherapy-induced toxicities in melanoma management. Immunotherapies have revolutionized melanoma treatment by stimulating the immune system to enhance anti-tumor responses, but they can also cause immune-mediated toxicities. The study aims to analyze the association between physical activity levels and adverse effects in melanoma patients undergoing immunotherapy, with the potential to introduce adapted physical activity sessions to mitigate treatment-related toxicities and improve patient care. The trial is observational, with a recruitment status of NOT YET RECRUITING, and aims to enroll 160 adult patients with melanoma. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University focused on the role of IGF2BP3/SPHK1 signaling in cancer stem cells in muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The research highlighted the potential of this signaling pathway as a biomarker for prognosis and response to immunotherapy in MIBC patients. By analyzing single-cell data and conducting various assays, the study found that IGF2BP3/SPHK1 signaling plays a critical role in promoting MIBC progression and maintaining the stemness of cancer stem cells. The findings suggest that targeting this pathway could be a promising approach for improving outcomes in MIBC patients undergoing immunotherapy. [Extracted from the article]