Conventional Pharmacological Treatment Research Articles

Investigating the anti-obesity potential of Nelumbo nucifera leaf bioactive compounds through machine learning and computational biology methods.

Obesity, a growing global health concern, is linked to severe ailments such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Conventional pharmacological treatments often have significant side effects, highlighting the need for safer alternatives. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers potential solutions, with plant extracts like those from Nelumbo nucifera leaves showing promise due to their historical use and minimal side effects. This study employs a comprehensive computational biology approach to explore the anti-obesity effects of Nelumbo nucifera Leaf Bioactive Compounds. Sixteen active compounds from Nelumbo nucifera leaves were screened using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP). Clustering analysis identified three representative molecules, and network pharmacology pinpointed PPARG as a common target gene. Molecular docking and machine learning models were used for inhibitors screening, and molecular dynamics simulations were futher used to investigate the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of these molecules on PPARG. Subsequent cellular assays confirmed the ability of Sitogluside to reduce lipid accumulation and triglyceride levels in 3T3-L1 cells, underscoring its potential as an effective and safer obesity treatment. Our findings provide a molecular basis for the anti-obesity properties of Nelumbo nucifera Leaf Bioactive Compounds and pave the way for developing new, effective, and safer obesity treatments.

Exploring ketogenic diet resistance in glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome: A comprehensive review and critical appraisal.

Glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) commonly presents with early-onset epilepsy that often resists conventional pharmacological treatment. Ketogenic diet therapy (KDT) is the preferred approach to address the underlying metabolic anomaly. However, a subset of GLUT1DS patients presents resistance to KDT, with the causes remaining elusive. This comprehensive literature review aims to explore the characteristics of KDT failure in GLUT1DS and identify risk factors within this population. Our goal is to improve counseling and prognostication for these patients. So, we conducted a comprehensive literature review on PubMed, focusing on studies documenting pediatric GLUT1DS patients with drug-resistant epilepsy unresponsive to KDT. We identified five cases of KDT failure in female GLUT1DS patients, aged 10 days to 13 years at diagnosis. Predominant seizure types were absence seizures, with a few cases of clonic, tonic, or myoclonic seizures. EEG consistently revealed 2-3.5 Hz generalized spike-and-wave discharges. Genetic investigations revealed point mutations and deletions in two cases each. Despite an in-depth search, no specific features were found to reliably distinguish KDT non-responders from responders, underscoring the need for further research. In cases of KDT ineffectiveness for seizure control in GLUT1DS patients, exploring alternative therapeutic strategies becomes imperative to managing symptoms while maintaining quality of life. Large-scale multicenter studies, facilitated through international collaborations like the European Network for Therapy in Rare Epilepsies (NETRE), hold promise in elucidating the complexities of this patient population and developing personalized therapeutic approaches. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome often causes difficult-to-treat epilepsy. The ketogenic diet works for many patients, but some do not respond. This review investigated cases of diet failure but could not identify common features among poor responders. Further research is needed to understand these cases and explore alternative treatments.

Self-rated costs and benefits of conventional and alternative adult ADHD treatments

Conventional treatments offered by healthcare providers for adult ADHD include pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches or a combination of both. Both treatment types may have downsides like side effects or low efficacy, potentially leading to treatment dissatisfaction. Also, adults with ADHD explore non-prescribed, complementary and/or alternative medicine (CAM) on their initiative, including substances such as dietary supplements and activities such as physical exercise. This survey study aimed to investigate the types of conventional and CAM treatments adults with ADHD use and their self-rated effectiveness. Also, lifetime experience of negative effects across all treatment types and the motives to use CAM were explored. In total, 227 adults diagnosed with ADHD or reporting clinically elevated ADHD symptoms (without official ADHD diagnosis) were included in the analyses. Both lifetime and current use and experiencing negative effects were highest for conventional pharmacological treatments, followed by CAM activities, CAM substances, and conventional non-pharmacological approaches. The most common reason for using CAM was overall well-being. Conventional treatments were rated more effective in influencing cognition than CAM, but their self-rated effectiveness did not differ in other assessed domains. CAM activities were rated more effective than CAM substances in all assessed domains. This study highlights the high prevalence of CAM use by adults with ADHD, implying that some patients find value in such alternative treatments. Future studies should consider investigating alternative and/or complementary treatments for adult ADHD, alone or in combination with conventional treatments.

The Therapeutic Management of Chemical and Herbal Medications on Uric Acid Levels and Gout: Modern and Traditional Wisdom.

Background: Gout is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which can precipitate acute gout attacks in individuals with genetic susceptibility, existing medical conditions, and dietary influences. Genetic predispositions, comorbid medical conditions, nutritional choices, and environmental factors increasingly recognize the multifactorial etiology of the disease. Methods: Recent research has highlighted the potential of phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, to manage hyperuricemia (HUA) and its associated complications. Results: Plant's natural compounds have garnered attention for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and uric acid-lowering properties, suggesting their role in alternative and complementary medicine. Phytochemicals have demonstrated promise in mitigating gout symptoms and potentially modifying the disease course by addressing different aspects of hyperuricemia and inflammation. Herbal remedies, with their complex phytochemical profiles, offer a unique advantage by potentially complementing conventional pharmacological treatments. The integration of herbal therapies with standard medications could lead to enhanced therapeutic outcomes through synergistic effects, optimizing disease management, and improving patient quality of life. Conclusions: This review examines the current understanding of the multifaceted etiology of gout, explores the role of phytochemicals in managing hyperuricemia, and discusses the potential benefits of combining herbal remedies with conventional treatments to improve patient care and therapeutic efficacy.

Integrative computational approach for hyperuricemia treatment: 3D QSAR, molecular docking and dynamics of flavonoid analogues as xanthine oxidase inhibitors

Hyperuricemia is characterized by an excessive accumulation of uric acid in the joints, and this condition remains a therapeutic challenge with limited options and significant side effects associated with conventional pharmacological treatments. This research aims to identify new molecular structures capable of inhibiting uric acid production by targeting key enzymes in purine metabolism. In this study, a comprehensive in silico analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between the chemical structure of flavonoid analogs and their inhibitory capacity on xanthine oxidase (XO). The results revealed that the analogs meet the structural requirements for xanthine oxidase inhibition. A 3D-QSAR model was generated, accurately predicting the biological activity of flavonoids targeting XO and identifying a potential lead compound with a q2 of 0.77 and R2 of 0.98. The CoMFA analysis disclosed how substituents affect XO affinity, with bulky groups enhancing it at positions R2 and R7. These strategies were applied and a new molecule was generated with better binding energy with the XO receptor. Electron-donating or accepting groups, such as phenyl and carbonyl, interact with amino acid residues (T1010 and R880) in XO's active site. Molecular docking analysis highlights different common interaction types in flavonoid-XO binding, emphasizing the importance of hydrogen and CH bonds. Previous studies underscore the significance of these specific residues in flavonoid-XO binding. Molecular dynamics showed that 3(R,S)-3′-Hydroxy-8-methoxyvestitol predominantly interacts through hydrophobic interactions, inducing a conformational change in the binding pocket and stabilizing the complex along with stable hydrogen bonds.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy: Therapeutic Opportunities and Challenges for Diabetic Kidney Disease.

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which severely affects the quality of patients' lives. However, the current therapeutic approaches can only postpone its progression to ESRD. It is therefore imperative to develop a novel therapeutic strategy for renal injury in DKD, with the objective of restoring renal function and reversing the process of ESRD. In recent years, the potential of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for DKD has garnered increasing attention within the scientific community. Preclinical research on MSC therapy has yielded promising results, and the safety of MSC treatment in vivo has been substantiated in clinical studies. An increasing body of evidence suggests that MSC therapy has significant potential for the treatment of DKD. This article reviews the existing research on MSCs and their derived exosomes in treating DKD and analyzes the underlying mechanism of MSC-based therapy for DKD. Additionally, we discuss the potential of combining MSC therapy with conventional pharmacological treatments, along with the constraints and prospects of MSC therapy for DKD. We hope this review can provide a precise and comprehensive understanding of MSCs for the treatment of DKD.

Polyphenol-Mediated Modulation of Non-Coding RNAs: A New Therapeutic Approach for Hypertension - A Review.

Hypertension (HTN) is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Conventional pharmacological treatments have been effective but are often accompanied by side effects and do not address all pathological aspects of the disease. Recent advances in molecular biology have identified non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), as key regulators in the pathogenesis of hypertension. These ncRNAs influence various cellular processes, such as gene expression, vascular tone, and inflammation, making them promising targets for therapeutic intervention. This review explores the potential of polyphenols, a diverse group of phytochemicals with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, in modulating ncRNA expression and function. We discuss how polyphenols, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), resveratrol, curcumin, and quercetin impact the regulation of ncRNAs, particularly focusing on their roles in reducing oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and ameliorating vascular remodeling associated with hypertension. The review synthesizes current evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies, highlighting significant findings and the mechanisms by which polyphenols exert their effects on ncRNA-mediated pathways. Moreover, we address the challenges of translating these findings into clinical applications, including issues related to bioavailability, dosing, and the complex interactions of polyphenols with other cellular components. Future directions for research are suggested, with an emphasis on the need for comprehensive clinical trials to establish the efficacy of polyphenol-based therapies targeting ncRNAs in hypertension management. By targeting ncRNAs, polyphenols offer a novel therapeutic strategy that could enhance the treatment landscape for hypertension and potentially other cardiovascular conditions.

Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurological condition associated with a decrease in levels of acetylcholine and diminished cholinergic functions. This may be caused by the degeneration of cholinergic neurons in the brain, leading to cognitive deficits. Due to the difficulty and invasiveness of collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) required for assessing conventional biomarkers, researchers are currently exploring less intrusive, less expensive, and more straightforward methods for diagnosing AD. Additionally, conventional interventions such as cholinesterase inhibitors like rivastigmine, donepezil, and galantamine are US FDA-approved drugs that are still effective for managing AD. The goal of this therapy is to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain by inhibiting the enzymes that degrade acetylcholine. Therefore, this therapeutic approach is useful for treating mild-to-moderate AD. However, only symptomatic treatment is currently available, and it can lead to serious adverse effects from conventional therapy. Thus, novel therapies for AD are needed in a growing global population. This manuscript provides information on various biomarkers with possible pathogenesis mechanisms, novel treatment strategies such as microalgae, HupA, cannabinoids, and the beneficial effects of coenzyme Q10, bacterial probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and D3 in memory impairment for managing AD. Non-pharmacological treatments such as music therapy, Electroacupuncture (EA), or manual acupuncture (MA) also play an important role in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional pharmacological treatments for AD.

Analysis of the use of vagus nerve stimulator in the treatment of epilepsy

Refractory epilepsy poses a significant challenge in neurology due to approximately 30% of patients being resistant to conventional pharmacological treatments. This study investigates the efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as a therapeutic alternative for these patients. The primary objective is to analyze the reduction in seizure frequency and improvements in the quality of life of patients treated with VNS. Additionally, the study aims to identify and categorize the side effects associated with the use of VNS. The methodology adopted included a qualitative bibliographic review covering renowned databases such as Scielo, Google Scholar, specialized scientific journals, academic repositories, and virtual libraries. Inclusion criteria considered studies that directly addressed the use of VNS in the treatment of epilepsy, while exclusion criteria eliminated duplicate and methodologically inadequate publications. Results indicate that VNS is effective in reducing seizures and improving quality of life, despite potential side effects. It is concluded that VNS is a viable and cost-effective therapeutic option for patients with refractory epilepsy, highlighting the need for future research to optimize stimulation parameters and minimize adverse effects.

Managing Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Autoimmune Diseases: Insights from a Nutritional Perspective.

Autoimmune diseases manifest as an immune system response directed against endogenous antigens, exerting a significant influence on a substantial portion of the population. Notably, a leading contributor to morbidity and mortality in this context is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Intriguingly, individuals with autoimmune disorders exhibit a heightened prevalence of CVD compared to the general population. The meticulous management of CV risk factors assumes paramount importance, given the current absence of a standardized solution to this perplexity. This review endeavors to address this challenge from a nutritional perspective. Emerging evidence suggests that inflammation, a common thread in autoimmune diseases, also plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of CVD. Nutritional interventions aimed at reducing inflammation have shown promise in mitigating cardiovascular risk. The integration of nutritional strategies into the management plans for patients with autoimmune diseases offers a holistic approach to reducing cardiovascular risk. While conventional pharmacological treatments remain foundational, the addition of targeted dietary interventions can provide a complementary pathway to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Effects of acute administration of 4-allyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol in mouse models of seizures

Epilepsy, a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures, presents a substantial challenge in approximately one-third of cases exhibiting resistance to conventional pharmacological treatments. This study investigated the effect of 4-allyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol, a phenolic compound derived from various natural sources, in different models of induced seizures and its impact on animal electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings. Adult male Swiss albino mice were pre-treated (i.p.) with a dose curve of 4-allyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg), its vehicle (Tween), or standard antiepileptic drug (Diazepam; or Phenytoin). Subsequently, the mice were subjected to different seizure-inducing models – pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), 3-mercaptopropionic acid (3-MPA), pilocarpine (PILO), or maximal electroshock seizure (MES). EEG analysis was performed on other animals surgically implanted with electrodes to evaluate brain activity. Significant results revealed that animals treated with 4-allyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol exhibited increased latency to the first myoclonic jerk in the PTZ and PILO models; prolonged latency to the first tonic-clonic seizure in the PTZ, 3-MPA, and PILO models; reduced total duration of tonic-clonic seizures in the PTZ and PILO models; decreased intensity of convulsive seizures in the PTZ and 3-MPA models; and diminished mortality in the 3-MPA, PILO, and MES models. EEG analysis indicated an increase in the percentage of total power attributed to beta waves following 4-allyl-2,6-dimethoxyphenol administration. Notably, the substance protected from behavioral and electrographic seizures in the PTZ model, preventing increases in the average amplitude of recording signals while also inducing an increase in the participation of theta and gamma waves. These findings suggest promising outcomes for the tested phenolic compound across diverse pre-clinical seizure models, highlighting the need for further comprehensive studies to elucidate its underlying mechanisms and validate its clinical relevance in epilepsy management.

Orthobiologic Management Options for Degenerative Disc Disease.

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a pervasive condition that limits quality of life and burdens economies worldwide. Conventional pharmacological treatments primarily aimed at slowing the progression of degeneration have demonstrated limited long-term efficacy and often do not address the underlying causes of the disease. On the other hand, orthobiologics are regenerative agents derived from the patient's own tissue and represent a promising emerging therapy for degenerative disc disease. This review comprehensively outlines the pathophysiology of DDD, highlighting the inadequacies of existing pharmacological therapies and detailing the potential of orthobiologic approaches. It explores advanced tools such as platelet-rich plasma and mesenchymal stem cells, providing a historical overview of their development within regenerative medicine, from foundational in vitro studies to preclinical animal models. Moreover, the manuscript delves into clinical trials that assess the effectiveness of these therapies in managing DDD. While the current clinical evidence is promising, it remains insufficient for routine clinical adoption due to limitations in study designs. The review emphasizes the need for further research to optimize these therapies for consistent and effective clinical outcomes, potentially revolutionizing the management of DDD and offering renewed hope for patients.

Impact of remote ischemic postconditioning on acute ischemic stroke in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ObjectiveAcute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a significant health burden in China, affecting a sizable portion of the population. Conventional pharmacological treatments frequently fall short of desirable outcomes. Therefore, exploring alternative therapies is crucial. Remote ischemic postconditioning (RIPostC) is a noninvasive and cost-effective adjunctive therapy. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of RIPostC as an adjunctive therapy for AIS to inform clinical practice.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted across the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, Weipu (VIP), and China Biology Medicine disc (CBM) databases up to October 2023. All included studies underwent bias risk assessment using the Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool. The primary outcome measure was the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), with secondary outcomes including the Barthel index (BI), D-dimer, C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen (FIB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), modified Rankin scale (mRS), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels. The data were analyzed using fixed-effects and random-effects models in Review Manager, with mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated for each outcome. The grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluations (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the level of evidence for each outcome measure.ResultsThis meta-analysis included 38 studies, encompassing 4334 patients. Compared with the control group, the RIPostC group had significantly lower NIHSS scores, serum CRP, D-dimer, IL-6, TNF-α, and FIB levels, and increased BDNF levels. Moreover, it improved the patient’s BI and mRS scores. According to the GRADE approach, the quality of evidence for mRS was deemed “moderate,” while the NIHSS, BI, and CRP were rated as “low” quality. IL-6, TNF-α, FIB, D-dimer, and BDNF received “very low” quality ratings.ConclusionThe findings suggest that RIPostC activates endogenous protective mechanisms, providing benefits to patients with AIS.

Prognostic significance vestibular examination results in patients with vestibular migraine.

Vestibular migraine (VM) is a newly defined clinical condition. Several vestibular abnormalities have been reported in patients with VM. However, to date, no specific vestibular examinations are used to define VM. Therefore, the utility of vestibular examinations is limited. Currently, the role of vestibular examination has not been clearly defined. We speculated that the results of vestibular examinations could predict the prognosis of VM. We investigated the relationship between the vestibular examination results and clinical outcomes in patients with VM. This study included 25 patients with VM. Vestibular examinations, including the video head impulse test (V-HIT), cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (c-VEMP and o-VEMP), posturography, and several questionnaires, including the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), were conducted at the initial evaluation. Lifestyle modifications for VM and conventional pharmacological prophylactic treatments, including lomerizine, amitriptyline, and valproic acid, were performed. After 4 weeks of treatment, clinical improvements were evaluated using the Clinical Global Improvement Scale (CGI-s). The relationships among the CGI-S score, several clinical variables, and the results of several vestibular examinations were evaluated. Each patient was further classified into two subgroups according to treatment outcomes concerning vertigo and headache: CGI-S score from 0 to 2 (good response [GR]) and CGI-S score > 3 (poor response [PR]). Overall, after treatment, most of the patients had improved dizziness and headache, and the CGI-s was 2.7 ± 1.3. There were 12 GRs, and 13 had PRs. Thus, neither V-HIT nor posturography predicted the prognosis. For c-VEMP, patients with GRs had significantly small AR concerning PR (19.2 ± 12.8 and 62.5 ± 42.5, respectively, [p < 0.01]). There were five normal, six unilateral, and 14 bilateral no response in 500hz o-VEMP. CGI-s of normal, unilateral, and bilateral no response was 1.4 ± 0.5, 2.8 ± 1.3, and 3.1 ± 1.2, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the normal and bilateral non-response o-VEMP groups (p < 0.05). Patients with VM had improvements in both headache and vertigo through a combination of lifestyle changes and prophylactic medications. Vestibular examinations, especially o- or c-VEMP, are beneficial for predicting the treatment outcomes of VM. The pathophysiology of VM is closely related to vestibular abnormalities, particularly the otolith-related pathways.

Targeting Metabolic Diseases: The Role of Nutraceuticals in Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation.

The escalating prevalence of metabolic and cardiometabolic disorders, often characterized by oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, poses significant health challenges globally. As the traditional therapeutic approaches may sometimes fall short in managing these health conditions, attention is growing toward nutraceuticals worldwide; with compounds being obtained from natural sources with potential therapeutic beneficial effects being shown to potentially support and, in some cases, replace pharmacological treatments, especially for individuals who do not qualify for conventional pharmacological treatments. This review delves into the burgeoning field of nutraceutical-based pharmacological modulation as a promising strategy for attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation in metabolic and cardiometabolic disorders. Drawing from an extensive body of research, the review showcases various nutraceutical agents, such as polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, which exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. All these can be classified as novel nutraceutical-based drugs that are capable of regulating pathways to mitigate oxidative-stress- and inflammation-associated metabolic diseases. By exploring the mechanisms through which nutraceuticals interact with oxidative stress pathways and immune responses, this review highlights their potential to restore redox balance and temper chronic inflammation. Additionally, the challenges and prospects of nutraceutical-based interventions are discussed, encompassing bioavailability enhancement, personalized treatment approaches, and clinical translation. Through a comprehensive analysis of the latest scientific reports, this article underscores the potential of nutraceutical-based pharmacological treatment modulation as a novel avenue to fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the complex landscape of metabolic disorders, particularly accentuating their impact on cardiovascular health.

Phytotherapy in anxiety control

Anxiety is a psychic state of apprehension or fear brought about by the anticipation of an unpleasant or dangerous situation. Its characteristics are physical and mental, when it is in great intensity and intercurrence, is also called panic syndrome. Thus, the use of herbal medicines can be quite effective in anxiety, not causing adverse symptoms than expected, such as effects caused by conventional pharmacological treatments. In view of the above, the objective of this study will be the use of phototherapy in anxiety, using drugs with anxiolytic activities in the treatment of anxiety, which has been growing as an anxiety treatment in the last 5 years. This growth is due to low cost, being an effective therapeutic option and culturally appropriate, aiming to obtain safety in its use by the users of herbal medicine. Legislation was created in ANVISA, PNPIC, SUS and PNPMF that govern the matter, seeking the regulation of phototherapy, expanding access to herbal and phototherapeutic plants, guaranteeing safety and efficacy to SUS users.

Effect of essential oils on pain management: what do we know and where do we go?

Pain is a complex and subjective experience that affects the quality of life and well-being of individuals. Conventional pharmacological treatments for pain have limitations and adverse effects, such as addiction, tolerance, and organ damage. Therefore, alternative, and complementary therapies, such as essential oils, are needed. Essential oils are volatile and aromatic compounds extracted from plants, which have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and aromatherapy for pain relief. Essential oils can modulate the activity of pain receptors, neurotransmitters, inflammatory mediators, and immune cells, as well as influence the psychological and emotional aspects of pain. However, the evidence on the effect of essential oils on pain management is still limited and inconsistent, due to the heterogeneity of the methods, the variability of the essential oil composition and quality, and the lack of standardized outcome measures and rigorous clinical trials. More research is needed to establish the efficacy, safety, and optimal dosage of essential oils for pain management, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and the potential interactions with other treatments. This article reviews the current state of knowledge on the effect of essential oils on pain management and identifies the gaps and challenges for future research.

Role of Omega-3PUFA: A Nutraceutical for Brain Functioning and Treatment of Mental Disorders

Abstract: Concerning the past few years in terms of health and nature, the globe has witnessed an upsurge in the use of nutraceuticals and nutritional and natural products in therapeutics. The major reason for this step is the conventional pharmacological treatment using synthetic drugs that do not meet the status of health and therapeutic requirements for various pathological conditions. Nutraceuticals promise prominent health and therapeutic benefits with no adverse or side effects, providing extra health benefits besides their action in any defined pathological condition. Nutraceuticals are extensive biological therapies that include herbs, vitamins, fatty acids, prebiotics, and probiotics used to promote and maintain health to prevent and cure pathological conditions, malignant processes, syndromes, and symptoms. Nutraceuticals have multidirectional therapeutic benefits and are claimed to be effective products in aiding human health. The addition of omega-3 for the treatment of mental and mood disorders was found to have safer, more valuable, and better therapeutic results in comparison to the use of synthetic drugs. Omega-3 is available in the regular diet through soybeans, walnuts, codfish, and salmon fish, and its constituents have been found to play a promising role in brain development, including brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders, in the pathology of mental and mood disorders, and treatment of the same. Supplementation with Omega-3 PUFA provides a promising effect in better brain development, treatment, prevention and cure of mental and mood disorders. This review endeavours to display and assert the clinical relevance of omega-3 PUFA in brain development, pathology, and treatment of mental and mood disorders.

Potential Neuroprotective Effect of the Endocannabinoid System on Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by alterations in motor capacity resulting from a decrease in the neurotransmitter dopamine due to the selective death of dopaminergic neurons of the nigrostriatal pathway. Unfortunately, conventional pharmacological treatments fail to halt disease progression; therefore, new therapeutic strategies are needed, and currently, some are being investigated. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), highly expressed in the basal ganglia (BG) circuit, undergoes alterations in response to dopaminergic depletion, potentially contributing to motor symptoms and the etiopathogenesis of PD. Substantial evidence supports the neuroprotective role of the ECS through various mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic effects. Therefore, the ECS emerges as a promising target for PD treatment. This review provides a comprehensive summary of current clinical and preclinical evidence concerning ECS alterations in PD, along with potential pharmacological targets that may exert the protection of dopaminergic neurons.

Herbal Interventions as Promising Therapeutics for Alleviating of Depression

Depression is a global mental health challenge with significant social and economic burdens. While conventional pharmacological treatments have been the cornerstone in depression management, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative and complementary herbal therapies. Herbal interventions have emerged as promising therapeutic approaches for depression treatment. Both clinical and preclinical research has shown that individuals with depression often experience simultaneous activation of neuro-inflammatory response within immune system and heightened activity in hypothalamus pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis of neuroendocrine system. These two systems interact with each other bidirectionally through neural, immunological and humoral mechanisms. This review article provides an outline of the current progress of research on herbal interventions, emphasizing their potential as emerging therapeutics for depression. It discusses the mechanisms of action, safety profiles, and evidence from clinical studies supporting the use of various herbal remedies. Herbal interventions and traditional Chinese formulations hold promise as a valuable adjunct or alternative to conventional treatments, offering new avenues for the comprehensive care of individuals with depression.