Body's Natural Defense Research Articles

Plain language summary of the MonumenTAL-1 study of talquetamab in people with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.

This plain language summary describes the results of a phase 1 research study (or clinical trial) called MonumenTAL-1 published in the New England Journal of Medicine in December 2022. A phase 1 study is an early clinical trial where researchers evaluate how safe a medicine is at different doses in a small number of people. In the MonumenTAL-1 study, researchers looked at a new medicine under development called talquetamab, for people living with multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer) who did not respond (refractory), stopped responding (relapsed), or who had difficulty dealing with their previous treatments. The phase 1 MonumenTAL-1 study was performed in 2 parts. Safety was the main focus of Part 1 in which side effects, and how serious they were, were assessed. The results of Part 1 were used to identify doses of talquetamab that were well tolerated, without a need to stop treatment or reduce the doses, for further study in Part 2. Part 2 of the study examined how well talquetamab worked to decrease signs of the cancer and what side effects, and their severity, people experienced at the doses identified in Part 1. In Part 1 of the study, researchers identified 2 doses of talquetamab for further study: 405 micrograms for every kilogram of body weight (μg/kg) given weekly and 800μg/kg every other week. All participants experienced at least one side effect of treatment at these 2 doses. Less than half of participants (43% at 405μg/kg weekly dose and 34% at the 800μg/kg every other week dose) experienced serious side effects which are those side effects that led to hospitalization, death, or permanent or life-threatening damage). The most common side effects at both doses were a condition known as cytokine release syndrome (CRS); changes in blood cell levels (where different types of cells in the blood were measured); changes in skin such as itching, dry skin, eczema, ulcers or shedding; changes in nails such as discoloration or ridging (lines or dents); and changes in sense of taste such as food tasting sour or metallic. CRS is caused by the overactivation of the immune system (the body's natural defense system) and can result in fever, feeling sick (nausea), being tired (fatigue), low blood pressure, low blood oxygen levels and body aches. Most cases of CRS, as well as most other side effects, were mild or moderate. Most common serious events were CRS, fever and bone pain. Most people had fewer signs of the cancer after taking talquetamab, and the response was similar between the 2 doses. The median duration of response at the 2 identified doses was 8-10months. Most of the side effects people experienced when taking talquetamab were mild or moderate. Most people who took talquetamab responded to the treatment even though they hadn't responded or stopped responding to previous multiple myeloma treatments or stopped taking those treatments because they were unable to tolerate them. These results demonstrate the potential of talquetamab as a treatment option in people who have used up other available therapy options. The 2 doses of talquetamab identified here are being examined in a larger group of participants to further test for safety and to test how well people respond.

REVIEW THE ARTICLE ON GAIRIK

Rasashastra is a branch of ancient Indian traditional medicine that incorporates principles of alchemy and pharmacology. It involves the preparation and utilization of therapeutic formulations by combining medicinal herbs, minerals, and metals. The objective of Rasashastra is to promote overall well-being by balancing the body, mind, and spirit. Practitioners of Rasashastra believe that certain minerals and metals possess unique healing properties when properly processed and administered. These formulations, known as Rasayanas, are believed to enhance vitality, promote longevity, and strengthen the body's natural defenses. Rasashastra also emphasizes the purification and detoxification of metals to eliminate any potential toxicity and maximize their therapeutic benefits. In this article we will be looking upon one such substance Gairika is hematite or red iron ore.

Essential Oil Components of Lemon grass leaves (Cymbopogon citratus) and its importance: A Narrative Review

Cymbopogon citratus, sometimes known as lemongrass, belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a medicinal plant that contains chemicals that can inhibit the growth of pathogens and boost the body's natural defenses against infectious disorders. Lemongrass is frequently used in baked goods, confections, herbal teas, and other non-alcoholic beverages. Lemongrass essential oil is frequently used as a scent in perfumes and beauty products like creams and soaps. The creation of beta carotene, and other nutrients is derived from citral, which is present in high concentrations in lemongrass essential oil. Lemon grass oil is therefore used in several pharmaceutical businesses for its anti-depressant, analgesic, antipyretic, bactericidal, and antiseptic properties due to the presence of diverse chemical elements.

Review on Multi-Dimensional Therapeutic Strategies and Potential Anti- Inflammatory Medicinal Plants

Herbal medicines are advancing subjects in medicine, and we must, of course, learn more about them. Complementary, alternative, and traditional medicines are key contributors of herbal medication guidance, but modern medicine first must demonstrate these guidelines through research methodology prior to actually incorporating them in discipline. Herbal medicines evermore being used as complimentary remedies for the regime of epidemics. Edema is our body's natural defense answer to potentially dangerous sensory input such as allergic reactions and/or epithelial injury; on either hand, an uncontrolled inflammatory response is the possible cause of a range of ailments such as allergies, heart dysfunctions, metabolic disorders, cancer, and autoimmune conditions, seeking to impose an enormous economic burden on individuals and, by extension, society. We manifest some herbs for which the anti- inflammatory assets have been investigated throughout experimental and clinical trials. This review aims to accomplish multi-dimensional therapeutic strategies to inflammatory processes through the utilization of herbal and lifestyle modification. In this review, we have tried to better understand the plants with its anti-inflammatory effects.

Pathophysiological aspects of free radical mechanisms of formation of skin scars

In the scientific literature, there are no complete scientifically substantiated conclusion about the functional state of the antioxidant status of the skin, its scars and the possibilities of their local correction as part of complex therapy. We have analyzed the literature data reflecting the issues of complex therapy of cicatricial changes in the skin in order to determine the feasibility for the effective use of antioxidants in the local correction of oxidative stress disorders. The pathophysiological aspects of free radical mechanisms of skin scar formation have been studied. The cell pool that forms the skin, as a result of tissue respiration, continuously produces free radicals. Both external and internal environmental factors can lead to disruption of the dynamic balance in the body's natural antioxidant defense system, reducing the potential of its biological capacity. The phospholipid layer of the cell membrane, nuclear and mitochondrial DNA can be exposed to aggressive action of free radicals, thereby causing or aggravating the existing pathology of the skin. Reduced biological activity of enzymatic and non-enzymatic components of the body's antioxidant defense system does not properly lead to the deactivation of free radicals, which requires other approaches to local therapy.

Novel Dietary Approach with Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics to Mitigate Antimicrobial Resistance and Subsequent Out Marketplace of Antimicrobial Agents: A Review.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant public health concern worldwide. The continuous use and misuse of antimicrobial agents have led to the emergence and spread of resistant strains of bacteria, which can cause severe infections that are difficult to treat. One of the reasons for the constant development of new antimicrobial agents is the need to overcome the resistance that has developed against existing drugs. However, this approach is not sustainable in the long term, as bacteria can quickly develop resistance to new drugs as well. Additionally, the development of new drugs is costly and time-consuming, and there is no guarantee that new drugs will be effective or safe. An alternative approach to combat AMR is to focus on improving the body's natural defenses against infections by using probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, which are helpful to restore and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the body. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be consumed as food or supplements to promote gut health and improve the body's natural defenses against infections. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, while synbiotics are a combination of probiotics and prebiotics that work together to improve gut health. By promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the body, these can help to reduce the risk of infections and the need for antimicrobial agents. Additionally, these approaches are generally safe and well tolerated, and they do not contribute to the development of AMR. In conclusion, the continuous development of new antimicrobial agents is not a sustainable approach to combat AMR. Instead, alternative approaches such as probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics should be considered as they can help to promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the body and reduce the need for antibiotics.

Prospective nutritional, therapeutic, and dietary benefits of camel milk making it a viable option for human consumption: Current state of scientific knowledge

For over five thousand years, people in Asia and Africa have known about the health benefits of camel milk. Thus, it is used not only as a food source but also as a medicine. The similarities between camel milk and human milk have been scientifically proven. Camel milk is unique among ruminant milk because it is high in vitamins C and E and low in sugar and cholesterol. Still, it contains a wide variety of beneficial minerals (including sodium, potassium, iron, copper, zinc, and magnesium), besides being rich in several nutrients, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, serum albumin, lactoferrin, immunoglobulins, lysozyme and the hormone insulin. Because of these components, many medical professionals now recommend camel milk as a treatment for various human ailments. It has been demonstrated to be effective in treating gastrointestinal issues, Type 1 diabetes, and food allergies. As a bonus, camel milk has been utilized to cure autism, lower cholesterol, prevent psoriasis, heal inflammation, aid tuberculosis patients, boost the body's natural defences, and impede the spread of cancer cells. Those who have problems digesting lactose may still be able to tolerate it. Conversely, camel milk can also help reduce an excessively high bilirubin, globulin, and granulocyte count. Drinking camel milk does not affect the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hemoglobin concentration, and leukocyte count. The proteins in camel milk have an adequate ratio of critical amino acids. Immunoglobulins, which fight disease, are contained inside, and their small size allows antigens to penetrate and boosts the immune system's efficacy. This article highlights the health benefits and medicinal uses of camel milk.

Plain language summary of the CheckMate 816 study results: nivolumab plus chemotherapy given before surgery for non-small-cell lung cancer.

In this article, we summarize results from the ongoing phase 3 CheckMate 816 clinical study that were published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2022. The goal of CheckMate 816 was to find out if nivolumab, an immunotherapy that activates a person's immune system (the body's natural defense system) to fight cancer, plus chemotherapy works better than chemotherapy alone when given before surgery in people with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that can be removed surgically (resectable NSCLC). Adults who had not previously taken medications to treat NSCLC and whose cancer could be removed with surgery were included in CheckMate 816. During this study, a computer randomly assigned the treatment each person would receive before surgery for NSCLC. In total, 179 people were randomly assigned to receive nivolumab plus chemotherapy, and 179 people were randomly assigned to receive chemotherapy alone. The researchers assessed whether people who received nivolumab plus chemotherapy lived longer without the cancer geting worse or coming back and whether there were any cancer cells left in the tumor and lymph nodes removed by surgery. The researchers also assessed how adding nivolumab to chemotherapy affected the timing and outcomes of surgery and whether the combination of these drugs was safe. Researchers found that people who took nivolumab plus chemotherapy lived longer without the cancer getting worse or coming back compared with those who took chemotherapy alone. More people in the nivolumab plus chemotherapy group had no cancer cells left in the tumor and lymph nodes removed by surgery. Most people went on to have surgery in both treatment groups; the people who took nivolumab plus chemotherapy instead of chemotherapy alone had less extensive surgeries and were more likely to have good outcomes after less extensive surgeries. Adding nivolumab to chemotherapy did not lead to an increase in the rate of side effects compared with chemotherapy alone, and side effects were generally mild and manageable. Results from CheckMate 816 support the benefit of using nivolumab plus chemotherapy before surgery for people with resectable NSCLC. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT02998528 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Making inroads to precision medicine for the treatment of autoimmune diseases: Harnessing genomic studies to better diagnose and treat complex disorders.

Precision Medicine is an emerging approach for disease treatment and prevention that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle. Autoimmune diseases are those in which the body's natural defense system loses discriminating power between its own cells and foreign cells, causing the body to mistakenly attack healthy tissues. These conditions are very heterogeneous in their presentation and therefore difficult to diagnose and treat. Achieving precision medicine in autoimmune diseases has been challenging due to the complex etiologies of these conditions, involving an interplay between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. However, recent technological and computational advances in molecular profiling have helped identify patient subtypes and molecular pathways which can be used to improve diagnostics and therapeutics. This review discusses the current understanding of the disease mechanisms, heterogeneity, and pathogenic autoantigens in autoimmune diseases gained from genomic and transcriptomic studies and highlights how these findings can be applied to better understand disease heterogeneity in the context of disease diagnostics and therapeutics.

OGBN V08 Day case explantation of a magnetic lower oesophagal sphincter augmentation device due to dysphagia

Abstract Background Although laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication remains the gold standard surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the magnetic Lower oesophageal sphincter augmentation device (LINX ®) has been suggested as a safe alternative for patients with uncomplicated and early-stage disease. The LINX device is a small flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores designed to mimic the body's natural defence mechanism against reflux in patients with GERD. Concerns about the LINX procedure comprise erosions and dysphagia. The purpose of this video is to show a safe technique for the removal of the device and how to check the integrity of the oesophagus. Methods A video presentation explaining the needed investigations before LINX removal and showing a safe technique for removal of LINX device and how to check oesophageal integrity afterwards. Results The LINX device was explanted safely the patient went home afterwards. Conclusions Explantation of t the LINX device can be done safely as a day case with precautions. Take home message is to carefully dissect the capsule around each bead and to use OGD to exclude any oesophageal injury.

Nutritional value and antioxidant capacity of organic and conventional vegetables of the genus Allium

There are indications that organically grown plants are safer for health and have higher antioxidant content than conventional ones. Vegetables of the genus Allium L. are a valuable source of health-promoting substances, including compounds with antioxidant properties. The aim of the study was to compare the antioxidant potential and nutritional value of four species of Allium L. vegetables obtained from organic and conventional production: garlic, leek and red and yellow onion. Their proximate and mineral composition were determined, as well as the content of bioactive substances and antioxidant potential. The study showed that the cultivation method significantly influenced the parameters tested. Comparison of organic vegetables with conventional ones in terms of content of dry matter, crude protein and crude fibre revealed no general trend indicating the superiority of one method over the other. However, all organic vegetables analysed were more abundant in minerals (Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu and Mn) and bioactive compounds. They also exhibited higher antioxidant capacity as measured by the FRAP and DPPH. tests. Their consumption (especially organic garlic and leek) may therefore strengthen the body's natural antioxidant defences and is beneficial for health.

Proximate Analysis and Organoleptic Properties of therapeutic Kadha tablet for Immunity Booster

Kadha is a traditional drink with a variety of medicinal benefits. It has been utilized in India since ancient times, but the corona pandemic 2020 has brought it to the forefront. As we are all aware that prevention is preferable to treatment, improving the body's natural defense system (immunity) is crucial to maintaining good health. Ayurveda, as the science of life, promotes nature's gifts in sustaining health. The medicinal plants play a supplementary role in developing the immune system and fighting deadly viruses including COVID-19. The objective of this study is to evaluate the nutritional content through proximate analysis and organoleptic properties of Kadha tablet for immunity booster. Result showed that it has a good sensory property and nutritional content making it a good choice for consumer for achieving better immunity.

The Role of the Commensal Skin Microbiota in the Processes of Reparative Regeneration of Soft Tissue Wounds

The issues of soft tissue wound management and combating complications of the wound process caused by colonization of the wound bed by pathogenic microflora are constantly in the field of view of surgical specialists. The steady growth of injuries accompanied by soft tissue damage and spread of antibiotic-resistant microflora prompt clinicians to preserve the body's natural defenses in order to improve tissue repair processes, thereby reducing hospital stay and achieving rational use of the economic resources of a health care facility. The article presents generalized data of scientific research arguing the significant contribution of representatives of the commensal skin microbiota to the processes of reparative regeneration of soft tissue wounds.

Effect of Ultrasonication Extraction Time on Determination of Flavonoid Levels in Ciplukan Plants

Ciplukan contains bioactive substances in the form of flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, polyphenols, vitamin C, stearic acid, palmitic acid. Bioactive substances from natural ingredients are known to function as immunomodulators that can increase the body's immune system, activate the body's natural defenses and restore immune system imbalances. Immunomodulators are important in studies related to the issue of the coronavirus disease 19 (Covid-19) pandemic. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the extraction time on the ultrasonic method on the flavonoid yield of ciplukan plants using methanol as a solvent. The method used is ultrasonication extraction with a variable extraction time. The analysis was carried out by qualitative analysis using a solution of qursetin to determine the concentration of flavonoids. The results of the study obtained the optimum flavonoid concentration at the extraction time of 15 minutes

Immunomodulatory potential of phytochemicals and other bioactive compounds of fruits: A review

AbstractOur immune system depends on leucocytes or white blood cells which possess the power to produce antibodies to fight various disease‐causing pathogens. People have now realized the crucial role played by the immune system in keeping them healthy. Therefore, recent scenario has witnessed an upsurge in the demand of immunity boosting foods. The use of naturally available fruits as immunomodulators is so ubiquitous and just needs concrete scientific proofs for claiming its efficacy. Many studies have shown that fruits are abundant in bioactive compounds like vitamins (vitamin A, C, E, etc.), minerals, and phytochemicals (like β‐ carotene, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolics, etc.). These components have the potential to enhance our immunity by supporting the proliferation of lymphocytes, scavenging free radical species, reducing oxidative stress, improving anti‐inflammatory as well as immunomodulatory mechanism, and supporting aggregation of platelets. Thus, supplementation of diet with an appropriate amount of fruits daily could support body's natural defense by strengthening our immune response. In this preface, we attempt to summarize the significant role played by various phytochemicals and bioactive compounds of fruits in boosting our immune system.

PURCHASE OF "GLEXROCSCASIL" PHITOGRANULES AND STUDY OF QUALITY INDICATORS

The immune system is our body's natural defense mechanism against diseases and their germs. As a rule, our body's defenses successfully fight colds and other infections that we create in our daily lives. Therefore, most viruses, bacteria, fungi and other microbes cannot cause disease and are mostly repelled without being felt. If the immune system is weakened due to stress, unbalanced lifestyle, other diseases we have just overcome, and insufficient supply of certain biofactors - we are more prone to infections. The more the immune system needs to eliminate germs, the more protective reactions take place, such as coughing, Symptoms of a cold and even a fever are such protective reactions that the body uses to remove viruses and bacteria. To prevent all this - especially during the flu season: to actively protect the immune system, it is advisable to use drugs rich in natural raw materials such as licorice, echinacea, hips, roses and silybus.

Maintaining Asepsis in Paramedicine: A Delphi Study: Asepsis in Paramedicine

Background The body's natural defences are breached during invasive procedures conducted during paramedic clinical care. Despite the complexity of these procedures, asepsis is a clinical goal for all invasive procedures. In doing so, it is critical that ‘key-parts’ and ‘key-sites’ are protected to decrease the risk of transmitting healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Although a national framework in Australia for the prevention of HAIs exists, this advice needs adapting to the field of paramedicine to account for variation in practice setting and clinical practice. This project aimed to reach consensus among experts regarding how to maintain asepsis in paramedic practice. Method A modified Delphi process was used with four iterative online rounds. Participants were sought nationally using a snowball (bias) technique and included professionals within healthcare who met the inclusion criteria of extensive experience in one or more of three areas: paramedicine, infection prevention and control, and evidence-based policy development. Results Eleven experts in the field of IPC and paramedicine contributed to a consensus project regarding how to maintain asepsis in paramedic practice. Conclusion This project provides a consensus statement that will allow operational procedures to be reviewed, techniques specific to paramedic practice to be developed and implemented, and scientific research to be conducted.

Role of the SWI/SNF Chromatin Remodeling Complex in Regulation of Inflammation Gene Expression

The process of inflammation is the body's natural defense response to the penetration of foreign substances and molecules from the outside. Many proteins, signaling cascades, and transcription factors are involved in the activation of inflammation genes. Their coordinated activity leads to a change in the expression of proinflammatory genes. The chromatin state of genes responding to the inflammation stimulus is the main factor determining the binding of transcriptional activators to the gene regulatory elements and a key mechanism in the induction of inflammatory genes. The rapid change in the state of chromatin, the creation of an open structure and the removal of the "nucleosome barrier" facilitates the binding of transcription factors and the initiation of transcription. This process is realized by attracting complexes to the gene that modify and remodel chromatin. One of the most important complexes restructuring the chromatin structure during gene activation is the SWI/SNF multisubunit complex. SWI/SNF regulates the expression of inflammation genes through interaction with transcription factors, including factors of the NF-κВ signaling pathway. The variability of the subunits of this complex determines the specificity of its binding to the chromatin and various transcriptional activators. This review considers the role of SWI/SNF in the regulation of inflammation genes, describes its interactions with chromatin, and the molecular mechanisms of its recruitment to the promoters.

EFFECT OF CHELATES OF MINERAL ELEMENTS ON ADAPTIVE PROCESSES IN THE ORGANISM UNDER OXIDATIVE STRESS

A review of literary sources shows the prevalence of the problem of the development of oxidative stress as a side effect of many pathological processes in animals and humans. It is essential to develop ways and means of its prevention and correction since its correction can be a non-specific therapy in developing many pathological processes. The development of oxidative stress caused deviations in redox processes, the permeability of cellular membranes, and their integrity. Overcoming the effects of oxidative stress requires bio-preparations with high bioavailability, which can stimulate the body's natural antioxidant defense system and neutralize the toxic effects of xenobiotics. Reducing the manifestation of oxidative stress is often adapting the body's natural antioxidant protection system to increase the supply or formation of reactive oxygen species and free radical oxidation products. Macro- and microelements are absorbed by the body of animals and humans mainly through the digestive system. To correct deficiencies of certain elements, mineral, and vitamin-mineral supplements used in the diet, and drugs for parenteral administration - under acute deficiency. Chelates of chemical elements are increasingly used in therapeutic practice, as they are characterized by higher bioavailability compared to organic and inorganic salts of the same elements. The use of compounds with higher bioavailability makes it possible to introduce a smaller amount of the drug in terms of metal, which will avoid the irritating effect and improve the organoleptic indicators, preserving or even enhancing the therapeutic effect. Chelates have a lower irritating effect at the same concentrations as in saline solutions. Therefore, the study of the biochemical mechanisms of action of the drug (in particular, in the correction of oxidative stress) is an urgent issue that prompts us to study it to develop a drug with high bioavailability and confirm its effectiveness.

Comparative Study of Two Different Disinfectant Solutions Used for Pin Site Care in Patients with Ilizarov Ring Fixation

The Ilizarov ring fixation system is used to treat fracture, osteomyelitis, and bone lengthening. Wires and pins are used in order to fix the Ilizarov frame to the affected bone. In patients with Ilizarov ring fixators, pin site infections (PSI) are the most prevalent problem seen by orthopaedic surgeons. Pin sites are prone to infection because the skin barrier is lost or broken, disrupting the body's natural defense against bacterial infection.
 This was a cross sectional study and 30 patients divided in 2 equal groups, each contained 15 patients were taken under study. The present study included patients treated with Ilizarov external fixators post-injury and followed-up at Orthopedic OPD by history, clinical examination and radiological evidence. 235 pin sites were examined -in all the 30 patients. Demographic information, socioeconomic status, and health status were asked and recorded in the patient identification forms. It was found that, Only 19 of the 125 pins cleaned with chlorhexidine showed evidence of infection, but 32 of the 110 pins cleaned with povidone iodine solution showed infection (p value 0.05This was found to be statistically significant. In the participating groups, the location of infection was not important. The povidone iodine group had the first-degree infections, followed by second- and third-degree infections. According to the Checketts otterburn classification scale, the chlorhexidine group did not report any third-degree infections.