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The protein, N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2), a tumor suppressor, is significantly decreased or absent in many types of cancer. There is a significant negative correlation between the levels of NDRG2 and the development and progression of cancer tumor recurrence and tumor invasion, in different cancers. In contrast, the in vitro and in vivo overexpression of the NDRG2 protein decreases the proliferation, growth, adhesion and migration of many types of cancer cells. The in vitro overexpression of NDRG2 increases the efficacy of certain anticancer drugs in specific types of cancer cells. We hypothesize that the delivery of the mRNA of the NDRG2 protein, encapsulated by lipid nanoparticles, could represent a potential treatment of metastatic and drug-resistant cancers. This would be accomplished using a self-amplifying mRNA that encodes the NDRG2 protein and an RNA-dependent-RNA polymerase, obtained from an in vitrotranscribed (IVT) mRNA. The IVT mRNA would be encapsulated in a lipid nanoformulation. The efficacy of the nanoformulation would be determined in cultured cancer cells and if the results are positive, nude mice transplanted with either drug-resistant or metastatic drug-resistant cancer cells, would be treated with the nano- formulation and monitored for efficacy and adverse effects. If the appropriate preclinical studies indicate this formulation is efficacious and safe, it is possible it could be evaluated in clinical trials.

Phytoestrogens, also known as xenoestrogens, are secondary metabolites derived from plants that have similar structures and biological effects as human estrogens. These compounds do not directly affect biological functions but can act as agonists or antagonists depending on the level of endogenous estrogen in the body. Phytoestrogens may have an epigenetic mechanism of action independent of estrogen receptors. These compounds are found in more than 300 plant species and are synthesized through the phenylpropanoid pathway, with specific enzymes leading to various chemical structures. Phytoestrogens, primarily phenolic compounds, include isoflavonoids, flavonoids, stilbenes, and lignans. Extensive research in animals and humans has demonstrated the protective effects of phytoestrogens on estrogen‐dependent diseases. Clinical trials have also shown their potential benefits in conditions such as osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, and certain types of cancer. This review provides a concise overview of phytoestrogen classification, chemical diversity, and biosynthesis and discusses the potential therapeutic effects of phytoestrogens, as well as their preclinical and clinical development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases and affects a large proportion of the population worldwide. Conventional treatments in the management include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Although being well-accepted, they have many lacunas in the form of severe side effect resulting from lack of targeted delivery. Antibody biopolymer conjugates are a novel method which is an add-on to older methods of immunization. It is used in various diseases and disorders. It ensures the targeted delivery of molecules to increase its efficacy and reduce unwanted effects of the molecule/drug to normal cells. It shows miraculous results in the treatment and management of several cancers even in advanced stages. Herein, we present the chemistry between biopolymer and antibody, their effects on cancer as well as the basic differences between antibody–drug conjugates and antibody–biopolymer conjugates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propolis is a mass of chemically diverse phytoconstituents with gummy textures that are naturally produced by honeybees upon collection of plant resins for utilization in various life processes in beehives. Since ancient times, propolis has been a unique traditional remedy globally utilized for several purposes, and it has secured value in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical areas in recent years. The chemical composition of propolis comprises diverse constituents and deviations in the precise composition of the honeybee species, plant source used for propolis production by bees, climate conditions and harvesting season. Over 300 molecular structures have been discovered from propolis, and important classes include phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, benzofurans, benzopyrene and chalcones. Propolis has also been reported to have diverse pharmacological activities, such as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticaries. As chronic diseases have risen as a global health threat, abundant research has been conducted to track propolis and its constituents as alternative therapies for chronic diseases. Several clinical trials have also revealed the potency of propolis and its constituents for preventing and curing some chronic diseases. This review explores the beneficial effect of propolis and its active constituents with credible mechanisms and computational studies on chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world has been affected socioeconomically for the last two years due to the emergence of different variants of the COVID-19 virus. Vaccination is the major and most efficient way to prevent the widening of this pandemic. Those who are having comorbidities are more vulnerable to serious infections due to their immunocompromised state. Additionally, cancer patients could be at significant risk for COVID-19. In this pandemic era, the diagnosis and treatment of cancer were significantly affected. Clinical trials at the initial stage were performed on healthy or COVID-19 infected patients. This produces a greater level of hesitancy in cancer patients. This review article provide an update regarding the vaccination and treatment for COVID-19 in patients with cancer and future directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide despite advances in treatment options for patients. As such, safe and effective therapeutics are required. Short peptides provide advantages to be used in cancer management due to their unique properties, amazing versatility, and progress in biotechnology to overcome peptide limitations. Several appealing peptide-based therapeutic strategies have been developed. Here, we provide an overview of peptide conjugates, the better equivalents of antibody-drug conjugates, as the next generation of drugs for required precise targeting, enhanced cellular permeability, improved drug selectivity, and reduced toxicity for the efficient treatment of cancers. We discuss the basic components of drug conjugates and their release action, including the release of cytotoxins from the linker. We also present peptide-drug conjugates under different stages of clinical development as well as regulatory and other challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The gut hormone GLP-1 has a primary role in regulating blood sugar levels, but also has a broader impact on health and aging. • GLP-1 may have neuroprotective effects, aid the management of diabetes and obesity, improve cardiovascular health, and decrease cellular aging. • Its ability to protect neurons makes it a good candidate for tackling the cognitive decline associated with aging and diseases that affect the nervous system. • GLP-1 can be effectively utilized in turning back the biological clock and promoting a healthier, longer life. Traditionally known for managing blood sugar, GLP-1, a gut hormone, is emerging as a potential key to both lengthening lifespan and combating age-related ailments. While widely recognized for its role in blood sugar control, GLP-1 is increasingly recognized for its diverse effects on various biological pathways beyond glucose metabolism. Research across organisms and humans suggests that activating GLP-1 receptors significantly impacts cellular processes linked to aging. Its ability to boost mitochondrial function, enhance cellular stress resistance, and quell inflammation hints at its wider influence on aging mechanisms. This intricate interplay between GLP-1 and longevity appears to act through multiple pathways. One key effect is its ability to modulate insulin sensitivity, potentially curbing age-related metabolic issues like type 2 diabetes. Its neuroprotective properties also make it a promising candidate for addressing age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, preclinical studies using GLP-1 analogs or agonists have shown promising results in extending lifespan and improving healthspan in various model organisms. These findings provide a compelling rationale for exploring GLP-1-based interventions in humans to extend healthy aging. However, despite the exciting therapeutic prospects of GLP-1 in promoting longevity, challenges remain. Determining optimal dosages, establishing long-term safety profiles, and investigating potential adverse effects require comprehensive clinical investigations before we can confidently translate these findings to humans. This article emphasises the wide applicability of GLP-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a prominent cause of mortality globally, and it becomes fatal and incurable if it is delayed in diagnosis. Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that is used to eliminate, diminish, or restrict tumor progression. Chemotherapeutic medicines are available in various formulations. Some tumors require just one type of chemotherapy medication, while others may require a combination of surgery and/or radiotherapy. Treatments might last from a few minutes to many hours to several days. Each medication has potential adverse effects associated with it. Researchers have recently become interested in the use of natural bioactive compounds in anticancer therapy. Some phytochemicals have effects on cellular processes and signaling pathways with potential antitumor properties. Beneficial anticancer effects of phytochemicals were observed in both in vivo and in vitro investigations. Encapsulating natural bioactive compounds in different drug delivery methods may improve their anticancer efficacy. Greater in vivo stability and bioavailability, as well as a reduction in undesirable effects and an enhancement in target-specific activity, will increase the effectiveness of bioactive compounds. This review work focuses on a novel drug delivery system that entraps natural bioactive substances. It also provides an idea of the bioavailability of phytochemicals, challenges and limitations of standard cancer therapy. It also encompasses recent patents on nanoparticle formulations containing a natural anti-cancer molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]