Alternative Therapy Research Articles

Harmaline attenuates chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: Modulation of Nrf-2 pathway and NK-1 receptor signaling

Peripheral neuropathy, resulting from damage to peripheral nerves, manifests as weakness, numbness, and pain, primarily affecting extremities and significantly impairing quality of life, especially in the elderly. Current treatments often entail severe side effects, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapies. Harmaline, a β-carboline alkaloid derived from Peganum harmala, exhibits promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of harmaline in a vincristine-induced mouse model of peripheral neuropathy. Swiss albino mice received vincristine (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) for 10 days to induce neuropathy. Harmaline (5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered 30 min before vincristine and continued until day 14 to evaluate its protective effects. Behavioral assessments were conducted on days 7 and 14. Vincristine treatment significantly heightened sensitivity to cold, measured by cold plate and acetone drop tests, and to heat, assessed via the hot plate test, while also impairing motor coordination. Biochemical analyses revealed decreased levels of GSH and Nrf-2, alongside elevated TBARS and IL-1β levels in sciatic nerve tissue. Harmaline administration markedly alleviated both behavioral and biochemical alterations induced by vincristine, with the 10 mg/kg dose exhibiting the most pronounced effects. Notably, harmaline treatment elevated GSH and Nrf-2 levels while reducing TBARS and IL-1β. Furthermore, substance-P treatment reversed the protective effects of harmaline, implicating the NK-1 receptor in its mechanism of action. In conclusion, harmaline demonstrates significant potential in mitigating vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy by reducing oxidative stress through Nrf-2 activation and lowering IL-1β levels, likely via NK-1 receptor inhibition.

Plant-Origin Additives from Boswellia Species in Emulgel Formulation for Radiotherapy Skin Care

The research objective of this study was to include plant-origin additives of the Boswellia species in the formulation of topical preparations for skin care after radiotherapy. The main factor damaging the skin during radiotherapy is the free radicals that form from water molecules and granulocytes in the inflammatory area; hence, the use of substances with antioxidant properties, including plant extracts rich in antioxidants, seems to be an alternative therapy in radiodermatitis treatment. A series of cosmetic preparations containing plant-origin additives from Boswellia species and corresponding placebo formulations were prepared. In order to assess the applicability of emulgels as oncocosmetics, their stability, physicochemical properties, rheological properties, and antioxidant capacity were determined. Somatosensory analysis was also performed. An attempt was also made to correlate the effect of plant-derived additives on the functional properties of the product determined via instrumental methods and the sensory properties. The most promising preparation was the emulgel containing the Soxhlet extract and essential oil (Em_SO) due to its high antioxidant properties compared to other preparations (% inhibition of 11.69) and polyphenol content (3.63 mg/dm3). Additionally, probands positively assessed all its features, including consistency (4.00), absorption (4.43), and hydration (4.71). The presence of significant correlations for % inhibition and polyphenols content with sensory and physicochemical characteristics of samples was indicated. There were low ratings for placebo preparations by probands, and the demonstrated correlations of odor with moisturization and distribution, oiliness and hydration with the % inhibition of the sample, and the content of polyphenols with the pH and size of the dispersed phase droplets proved the positive effect of the addition of plant-origin additives from Boswellia to the emulgel formulation on the functional and sensory properties.

Effects of long-term Tai Chi vs. aerobic exercise on antioxidant activity and cognitive function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease

An imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species and the body’s antioxidant defense mechanisms is closely related to the development and progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Considering that physical exercise is a potential therapeutic intervention for modulating oxidative stress markers and cognitive function in PD, the primary purpose of this study was to compare the effects of different long-term exercise modalities on antioxidants and cognitive performance in patients with PD. In addition, the secondary purpose was to explore whether changes in the levels of these biochemical markers are associated with alterations in cognitive performance pre- and post-intervention. In all, 61 participants were randomly divided into the aerobic exercise (AE, n=20), Tai Chi exercise (TCE, n=21), or control (n=20) group. Blood samples were collected before and after a 12-week intervention period for the analysis of antioxidant markers [leukocyte 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and uric acid (UA)]. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Although no significant changes were observed in the activity of 8-OhdG, GSH-Px, GSSG, GSH:GSSG ratio, SOD, and cognitive performance in the AE and TCE groups, the 12-week AE intervention led to a significant increase in CAT and GSH levels, along with a significantly decrease in UA levels among individuals with PD. Conversely, the TCE intervention resulted in a significant increase in GSH levels. However, SOD activity and MMSE scores were significantly decreased after 12 weeks in the control group. The correlations between changes in MMSE scores and changes in the levels of GSH and UA prior to and after the intervention reached significance in the AE group. Thus, long-term AE and TCE might serve as effective strategies for reducing oxidative damage and preserving cognitive function in PD, with AE exhibiting greater benefits compared with TCE. These findings hold potential clinical relevance as complementary measures to standard medical treatments and alternative therapies, such as antioxidant supplements and dietary adjustments, particularly for individuals in the early stages of PD.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract in Malaria Treatment: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Directions

Malaria remains a critical global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents. This review examines the therapeutic potential of the ethanol root-extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum, a plant traditionally used in West Africa for malaria treatment. Utilizing the Plasmodium berghei rodent model, which mirrors human malaria, we assess the extract’s efficacy in restoring haematological markers, safety profile, and potential as an adjunct or alternative therapy. Sphenocentrum jollyanum, known for its rich phytochemical composition, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, has demonstrated significant restorative effects in preliminary studies. The extract improved hemoglobin levels, red blood cell counts, and platelet counts in infected mice, indicating potential benefits in mitigating malaria-induced anemia and other haematological abnormalities. Its mechanisms of action include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Despite its promising results, rigorous safety evaluations are necessary, including acute and chronic toxicity studies, to ensure its safe use. Future research should focus on clinical trials to validate efficacy, optimize dosage, and explore combination therapies with standard antimalarial drugs. The review emphasizes the need for standardized preparation methods, quality control, and integration into public health strategies to enhance malaria management, particularly in resource-limited regions. Keywords: Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract, Malaria, Treatment, Efficacy, Safety.

Combination Therapy with Vitamin D and Metformin: A Potential Approach to Mitigate Testicular Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease that cannot be linked to a single pathway, causing the observed heterogeneity among T2DM patients. Despite this level of heterogeneity, T2DM is majorly managed by metformin (MET) monotherapy. However, recent findings have associated long-term metformin intake with progressive oxidative pancreatic β cell damage as the disease progresses. Hence, a significant number of patients treated with MET need an alternate therapy. Hence, identifying drug combinations that can effectively alleviate different diabetes complications would serve as a more promising therapy that can translate into active use. Hence, this study was designed to explore the possible synergistic effect of vitamin D and metformin on T2DM-induced testicular dysfunction. Thirty healthy male Wistar rats (weight: 120-150 g and age: 10 ± 2 weeks) were randomly divided into control, diabetes untreated (HFD+STZ), diabetes + vitamin D (1000 IU/kg), diabetes + metformin (180 mg/kg), and diabetes + vitamin D + metformin. All treatments lasted for 28 days and animals were sacrificed using IP injection of ketamine and xylaxine (40 and 4 mg/kg respectively). Vitamin D improved the ameliorative effect of metformin on T2DM-induced hyperglycemia and lipid dysmetabolism, accompanied by a significant decrease in testicular lactate dehydrogenase and lactate. Also, vitamin D + metformin significantly increased serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, and testicular 5α reductase activities. Furthermore, vitamin D improved the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of metformin by significantly decreasing T2DM-induced increase in testicular interleukin 1beta, interleukin 6, TNF-α, nitric oxide, and NF-κB and increasing T2DM-induced decrease in interleukin 10, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, GPx, and Nrf2. Vitamin D enhanced the ameliorative effect of metformin on T2DM-induced testicular dysfunction.

Hippotherapy Used in Medical Recovery

Hippotherapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy, falls into the category of alternative therapies that involve human-horse interaction for therapeutic purposes. Horse therapies are especially used for children with various physical, cognitive, and emotional disorders. They can also be successfully used with adults and the elderly. The horse's movement is what stimulates the development of motor skills, balance, and coordination. Direct interaction with the horse, including caring for it, riding, and other related activities, is effective in developing social, emotional, and cognitive skills in both children and adults, as well as in the elderly. Hippotherapy encourages self-confidence, concentration, and motor coordination, making it suitable for people who are anxious, antisocial, depressed, have language difficulties, or low self-esteem. Studies highlight that the presence of horses changes the frequency of the human brain, with subjects becoming more aware and focused when around horses. Horses help therapy beneficiaries stay connected to the present, becoming more aware of their experiences. Additionally, patients learn to pay more attention to the feelings and nonverbal language transmitted by the being they come into contact with. Numerous studies show that horseback riding improves balance, coordination, and reflexes, induces muscle relaxation, reduces spasticity, increases joint mobility, and improves respiratory function and blood circulation. The main objective of the paper is to identify therapies that use horses for patients diagnosed with various conditions, the benefits of these therapies on patients' motor skills, and their effects on patients' mental state. Additionally, we aim to identify horse-related activities that enhance concentration, help address behavioral issues, and facilitate patients' integration into social groups.

Screening of promising molecules against potential drug targets in Yersinia pestis by integrative pan and subtractive genomics, docking and simulation approach.

This study focuses on Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for plague, which posed a severe threat to public health in history. Despite the availability of antibiotics treatment, the emergence of antibiotic resistance in this pathogen has increased challenges of controlling the infections and plague outbreaks. The development of new drug targets and therapies is urgently needed. This research aims to identify novel protein targets from 28 Y. pestis strains by the integrative pan-genomic and subtractive genomics approach. Additionally, it seeks to screen out potential safe and effective alternative therapies against these targets via high-throughput virtual screening. Targets should lack homology to human, gut microbiota, and known human 'anti-targets', while should exhibit essentiality for pathogen's survival and virulence, druggability, antibiotic resistance, and broad spectrum across multiple pathogenic bacteria. We identified two promising targets: the aminotransferase class I/class II domain-containing protein and 3-oxoacyl-[acyl-carrier-protein] synthase 2. These proteins were modeled using AlphaFold2, validated through several structural analyses, and were subjected to molecular docking and ADMET analysis. Molecular dynamics simulations determined the stability of the ligand-target complexes, providing potential therapeutic options against Y. pestis.

Effects of acupuncture and related techniques in temporomandibular disorders (TMD): A systematic review

Acupuncture has shown promise as a therapeutic option in temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Its benefits include pain relief, reduction of muscle tension and improvement of jaw function. Several alternative approaches, including dry needling and laser acupuncture, were also reported to improve TMD symptoms. This review aims to summarise the most recent studies available on these alternative therapies for TMD. An electronic literature search was conducted in 3 databases, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, in order to identify articles on acupuncture, dry needling, or laser acupuncture. Search development, process, and two-step article selection were conducted by independent researchers. Data was extracted regarding study characteristics, population characteristics, acupuncture points or techniques used, and assessment methods for diagnosis and effects. Out of 431 identified results, 20 were selected for inclusion. We identified 11 studies on acupuncture, 3 studies on laser acupuncture and 6 studies on dry needling. Most studies showed improvement of TMD symptoms post-intervention, assessed by pain scales and maximum mouth opening. Overall, most studies showed promising results for acupuncture as an alternative, minimally invasive treatment method for TMD. When compared to controls or placebo, acupuncture, and related techniques result in significant relief of TMD symptoms.

Ozone therapy vs. classical treatment in musculoskeletal disorders

With aging and weight gain, the population is significantly overweight and faces additional pressure on vertebral and peripheral joints (ankles, knees, hips, shoulders), which affects muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Muscle contraction, translated by pain, sends the patient to the doctor. Lumbar and cervical spine disorders occur in 70-80% of the world's population during their lifetime. They are a major problem because they reduce the quality of life and increase the costs borne by health services and patients. There are multiple therapeutic options, both classic medication and alternative treatment, to combat pain for a longer or shorter period. Relief or suppression of pain, the dominant symptom in the manifestations of degenerative arthritic diseases, is an important goal of treatment, ultimately improving the quality of life. Patients, for various reasons, frequently seek alternative therapies, especially to surgical treatment. Finding the most comprehensive treatment is often a challenge. If we consider the benefit that a treatment (therapy) should bring to the health condition, then an individualized therapeutic plan must be chosen. A retrospective study on the effects of ozone and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment compared to classic medication shows the role of ozone therapy in pain relief and the beneficial effect of this therapy, especially in combination with PRP, over a longer period.

Homoeopathic Management of Menopause: A Comprehensive Review

Background: Menopause signifies a crucial physiological shift in a woman's journey, denoting the halt of menstrual cycles caused by the gradual decline in ovarian activity. Conventional management options, such as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), are effective but not devoid of risks and limitations. In contrast, homeopathy offers a holistic approach to symptom management, aiming to address the underlying cause of menopausal disturbances. Aim and Objective: By critically analyzing clinical studies, randomized controlled trials, and observational research, this paper seeks to elucidate the role of homeopathy as an alternative and complementary therapy for menopause. The objective is to provide insights into the potential benefits of homeopathy and contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting its use in menopausal care. Methodology: A comprehensive search strategy was done to identify relevant literatures from databases such as PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar. The selection of eligible studies was conducted according to predefined criteria for inclusion and exclusion. Results: Our findings resulted into nine studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, including randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and clinical trials. These studies collectively provided evidence of the efficacy of homeopathic medicines in managing various menopausal symptoms, including hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Conclusion: The reviewed literature suggests that homeopathy offers a promising avenue for managing menopausal symptoms, providing an alternative or complimentary approach to conventional therapies. Individualized treatment strategies tailored to each woman's unique symptomatology appear particularly beneficial. However, further clinical trials are needed to fully elucidate the efficacy and mechanisms of action of homeopathic interventions in menopausal care.

LC-MS/MS Analysis of crude Flavonoid Compounds from <i>Justicia secunda</i> from Democratic Republic of the Congo and evaluation of their antisickling Activity

<i>Justicia secunda</i> Vahl (Acanthaceae) is a tropical herbaceous plant traditionally used by indigenous peoples of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to treat symptoms associated with sickle cell disease (SCD), a genetic condition with life-threatening complications. Given the lack of side-effect-free drugs, alternative herbal therapies that can reduce or reverse red blood cell sickling may serve as safe and effective treatments. The primary objective of this study is to conduct a phytochemical screening of crude flavonoids extracted from <i>J. secunda</i> using LC-ESI/MS/MS. <i>J. secunda</i> extracts were evaluated for their phytoconstituents and anti-sickling properties. The anti-sickling properties were assessed through reverse sickling estimation, polymerization and oxidation inhibition, and osmotic fragility assays. Fractionation of the methanol extract and chemical profiling were performed by flash chromatography and high-performance thin-layer chromatography analysis respectively. Characterization and identification of the crude flavonoids were done using chromatography and spectroscopy methods. Chemical screening of crude flavonoids revealed the presence of 12 flavonoid O-glycosides based on one flavonol (methoxy-kaempferol) and two flavones (luteolin and apigenin). The crude flavonoid extracts demonstrated maximum reversal of sickled red blood cells (91.9 ± 0.8%), significant inhibition of hemoglobin polymerization (77.8 ± 7.6%) and hemoglobin S auto-oxidation (96.3 ± 0.2), and provided maximum protection of red blood cells against hyperhemolysis. The results validate the traditional use of <i>J. secunda</i> and identify potential compounds for the development of novel anti-sickling agents.

Will the antioxidant supplements impact the mitigation of oxidative stress in Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is a frequent neurodegenerative condition marked by both non-motor and motor symptoms. It is brought on by the selective depletion of dopamine neurons from the substantia nigra region of the midbrain. Numerous variables, including lifestyle, environment, age, smoking, and underlying medical disorders, affect the occurrence of Parkinson's disease. The free radicals created by oxidative stress have an impact on the morphology and function of neuronal cells and are a factor in many neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, disorder. Although the pathophysiological mechanism causing neuronal degeneration is still unknown, oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease. It also has an association with numerous proteins, including α-synuclein, amyloid, DJ-1 protein and several signalling pathways like extracellular regulated protein kinases. Reactive oxygen species also contribute to complex I's mitochondrial respiratory activity. The naturally occurring antioxidants are the phenols, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoids, vitamins, and lignans. These antioxidants retain the reactive oxygen species generation and plays a role in several biological effects. As a result, natural plant antioxidants may have an impact on Parkinson's disease and offer an alternative therapy that minimises oxidative stress and slows down the evolution of the disease.

Edible cannabis for chronic low back pain: associations with pain, mood, and intoxication.

Cannabis, commonly known for both therapeutic and intoxicating effects, is gaining accessibility on legal markets and traction as a potential alternative therapy for pain mediation, particularly in those suffering from chronic low back pain. However, the effectiveness in this population of legal market forms of cannabis, particularly commonly used edibles, is unknown. Therefore, this study utilized a naturalistic prospective design where participants with chronic low back pain with intentions to initiate cannabis use for treatment were recruited and self-selected edible cannabis products containing varying amounts of delta- 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Products were categorized as CBD-dominant, THC-dominant, or combined THC and CBD (THC + CBD). 249 participants [140 female (56.62%), mean (SD) age of 46.30 (16.02), 90% White] were tracked over 2weeks of ad libitum use and assessed during a naturalistic acute cannabis administration session on changes in pain, mood, and subjective drug effects. During acute administration, a significant correlation between THC dose and short-term pain relief was found, suggesting that higher THC doses were associated with greater pain reduction (p < .05). In addition, THC was associated with higher levels of subjective cannabis drug effects (p < .001), regardless of whether CBD was also in the edible product. Acute CBD dose was primarily associated with short-term tension relief (p < .05); however, there were no associations between CBD dose and acute pain. Over the 2-week ad libitum administration period results suggested pain reductions across participants using all forms of cannabis. However, trends suggested that more frequent use of CBD-dominant edible cannabis may be associated with greater reductions in perceived pain over the 2-week observation period (p = .07). These findings support the short-term analgesic effects of THC and anxiolytic effects of CBD and further suggest that orally-administered THC and CBD should continue to be evaluated for the potential to provide both acute and extended relief from chronic low back pain. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03522324?locStr=Boulder,%20CO&country=United%20States&state=Colorado&city=Boulder&cond=chronic%20low%20back%20pain&intr=Cannabis&rank=1, identifier NCT03522324.

Bridging the Gap: Advances and Challenges in Heart Regeneration from In Vitro to In Vivo Applications.

Cardiovascular diseases, particularly ischemic heart disease, area leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Myocardial infarction (MI) results in extensive cardiomyocyte loss, inflammation, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, fibrosis, and ultimately, adverse ventricular remodeling associated with impaired heart function. While heart transplantation is the only definitive treatment for end-stage heart failure, donor organ scarcity necessitates the development of alternative therapies. In such cases, methods to promote endogenous tissue regeneration by stimulating growth factor secretion and vascular formation alone are insufficient. Techniques for the creation and transplantation of viable tissues are therefore highly sought after. Approaches to cardiac regeneration range from stem cell injections to epicardial patches and interposition grafts. While numerous preclinical trials have demonstrated the positive effects of tissue transplantation on vasculogenesis and functional recovery, long-term graft survival in large animal models is rare. Adequate vascularization is essential for the survival of transplanted tissues, yet pre-formed microvasculature often fails to achieve sufficient engraftment. Recent studies report success in enhancing cell survival rates in vitro via tissue perfusion. However, the transition of these techniques to in vivo models remains challenging, especially in large animals. This review aims to highlight the evolution of cardiac patch and stem cell therapies for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, identify discrepancies between in vitro and in vivo studies, and discuss critical factors for establishing effective myocardial tissue regeneration in vivo.

Molecular mechanism of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction against Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and experimental verification.

Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Mycoplasma bovis. It is particularly prevalent in calves, posing a significant threat to animal health and leading to substantial economic losses. Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction is often used to treat this condition in veterinary clinics. It exhibits robust anti-inflammatory effects and can alleviate pulmonary fibrosis. However, its mechanism of action remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to preliminarily explore the molecular mechanism of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction for treating mycoplasma pneumonia in calves through a combination of network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation methods, and experimental validation. The active components and related targets of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction were extracted from several public databases. Additionally, complex interactions between drugs and targets were explored through network topology, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. Subsequently, the binding affinity of drug to disease-related targets was verified through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, the pharmacodynamics were verified via animal experiments. The primary network topology analysis revealed two core targets and 10 key active components of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction against Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis showed that the mechanism of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction for treating mycoplasma bovis pneumonia involved multiple signaling pathways, with the main pathways including PI3K-Akt and IL17 signaling pathways. Moreover, molecular docking predicted the binding affinity and conformation of the core targets of Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction, IL6, and IL10, with the associated main active ingredients. The results showed a strong binding of the active ingredients to the hub target. Further, molecular docking dynamics simulation revealed three key active components of IL10 induced by Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction against Mycoplasma bovis pneumonia. Finally, animal experiments confirmed Dang-Shen-Yu-Xing decoction pharmacodynamics, suggesting that it holds potential as an alternative therapy for treating mycoplasma bovis pneumonia.

Harnessing nanotechnology for breast cancer management: UiO-66 (NH2) metal-organic frameworks functionalized with chitosan and folic acid for the efficient delivery of doxorubicin

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity globally, which could be due to a lack of effective treatments. The inherent inadequacies of traditional medicines in terms of tumour selectivity and undesired toxicity urge us to seek alternative therapies to address these drawbacks. Metalorganic frameworks (MOFs) have been synthesized for use in drug delivery systems (DDS) because of their improved porosity and larger specific surface area. In this research, UiO-66-NH2 MOFs were synthesized via a solvothermal technique and functionalized with chitosan-folic acid (CS-FA) as a DDS for targeted doxorubicin (DOX) delivery. The MOF nanoplatforms were characterized via different techniques, including FTIR, PXRD, BET, TEM, DLS, TGA, SEM, and TGA. Remarkably, compared with the unmodified MOF, UiO-DOX@CS-FA delayed DOX release due to a gated effect induced by the CS-FA surface coating. pH-sensitive DOX release was observed, where 39.76 % of the drug was released in the tumour-mimicking pH of 5.2, whereas 5.84 % of the drug was released at physiological pH (7.4). In vitro cellular toxicity and uptake investigations demonstrated that UiO-DOX@CS-FA is a highly effective targeted DDS against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Furthermore, in vivo toxicity studies in Wistar rats revealed no evidence of serious adverse effects. The variety of pharmacokinetic characteristics tested indicated that the bioavailability and release kinetics of DOX improved. Our findings lay the groundwork for the development and production of novel polymer conjugate-based nanoparticles with increased tumour-targeting efficacy.

Use of alternative therapies in pain management in domestic animals: A narrative review of the literature

Objective: To explore the impact of alternative therapeutic approaches on pain management and animal welfare, highlighting the integration of complementary methods into conventional treatments. Animal welfare is directly related to quality of life, which includes psychological, physical, environmental and social factors. Given the many facets of pain and the individual responses of animals to it, it is difficult to assess this complex and subjective experience. To address pain, it is essential to observe physiological and behavioral signs. To do this, tools such as the University of Melbourne Pain Scale can be used to assess pain intensity. Traditional methods are being supplemented by new alternative therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy, herbal medicine and aromatherapy. While acupuncture stimulates specific points to restore balance, Bach flower remedies offer a more comprehensive approach that focuses on emotions. With caution, aromatherapy can alleviate anxiety and stress. Although cannabidiol (CBD) has the potential to treat chronic diseases and relieve pain, further research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy. These alternative therapies offer valuable options for managing pain and improving animal welfare, encouraging continued research and personalized treatments.

Commentary on “Beyond infantile hemangiomas: A glimpse into overlapping rare syndromes emphasizing the vigilant screening for PHACE and LUMBAR syndromes”

Due to their complex etiology and pathogenesis, hemangioma-related syndromes, such as LUMBAR and PHACE, present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Despite advances, standardized diagnostic criteria, screening protocols, and treatment options still need to be developed. We report a rare case of a 1-month-old patient with nonspecific symptoms, including failure to thrive and poor feeding, associated with lumbosacral ulcers. The diagnosis revealed overlapping features of LUMBAR and PHACE syndromes, highlighting the broad phenotypic spectrum and suggesting a potential common etiology. This case underscores the need for heightened clinical suspicion among general practitioners, dermatologists, and vascular physicians to manage these conditions. Propranolol is widely used for treating infantile hemangiomas, but due to its side effects, alternative therapies need to be explored. Emerging treatments, such as Atenolol, Timolol, Carteolol, and pulsed dye lasers, offer promise but require further investigation. However, the most crucial aspect is the need for ongoing research into the mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and side effects of current and alternative treatments. This research is essential for developing a comprehensive, safe management algorithm for both low- and high-risk infantile hemangiomas. It demands sustained engagement and commitment from the medical and research communities, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing medical knowledge.

Alternative Cancer Therapeutics: Unpatentable Compounds and Their Potential in Oncology.

Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally. Cancer patients often seek alternative therapies in addition to, or instead of, conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. The progress in medical advancements and early detection provides more treatment options; however, the development of cancer drugs requires a significant amount of time, demands substantial investments, and results in an overall low percent of regulatory approval. The complex relationship between patent protection and pharmaceutical innovation complicates cancer drug development and contributes to high mortality rates. Adjusting patent criteria for alternative cancer therapeutics could stimulate innovation, enhance treatment options, and ultimately improve outcomes for cancer patients. This article explores the potential of alternative cancer therapeutics, chemopreventive agents, natural products, off-patent drugs, generic unpatentable chemicals, and repurposed drugs in cancer treatment, emphasizing the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of these unconventional compounds as combinatorial cancer therapies. The biological pathways, therapeutic effects, and potential to enhance existing therapies are reviewed, demonstrating their cost-effective and accessible options as adjuvant cancer therapies.

Impact of lifestyle on erectile dysfunction: literature review and educational recommendations

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) represents a significant health problem that can have a negative impact on men's quality of life, intimate relationships and self-esteem. ED is a marker of overall health, requiring a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach. This article highlights the need for an integrated approach, in which lifestyle modifications are key to the successful treatment of erectile dysfunction. Aim of the study: The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the literature on erectile dysfunction, with the intention of improving understanding of the condition and providing directions for future research and clinical practice. Materials and methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were searched to identify studies and literature reviews on erectile dysfunction (ED). The state of knowledge: This review examines the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and risk factors associated with ED, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle in prevention and treatment. The role of diet, physical activity, weight reduction, smoking cessation, and alcohol restriction in improving erectile function is discussed. The article also presents current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, including pharmacotherapy, alternative therapies and psychological interventions. Conclusions: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a complex health issue that necessitates a comprehensive and interdisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Lifestyle plays a pivotal role in the prevention and treatment of ED, and its modification should be an integral component of any treatment plan.