Synthetic Corticosteroid Research Articles

Design of Experiment-Based Green UPLC-DAD Method for the Simultaneous Determination of Indacaterol, Glycopyrronium and Mometasone in their Combined Dosage Form and Spiked Human Plasma.

Abstract Indacaterol, is an ultra-long-acting β2 agonist, glycopyrronium is a long-acting muscarinic-antagonist and mometasone is a synthetic corticosteroid. They were used recently in combination for the treatment of severe asthma symptoms and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In this work, it was the first time to develop a green and environment friendly ultra-performance liquid chromatographic method using design expert program for the analysis of the three drugs in their combined dosage form. Also, the method was bioanalytically validated for the analysis of the three drugs in spiked human plasma samples. The method was linear in range from 0.50 to 100.0 μg mL−1 for indacaterol and mometasone and from 1.0 to 150.0 μg mL−1 for glycopyrronium. It showed high accuracy where, the % recovery for indacaterol, glycopyrronium and mometasone in plasma were ranged from 94.27 to 97.86%, 96.43 to 98.75% and 96.86 to 98.43%, respectively. Also, it was precise where, the % relative standard deviation for the inter-day precision was ranged from 2.571 to 3.484%, 3.180 to 4.123% and 3.150 to 3.984% and the intra-day precision was ranged from 2.351 to 3.125%, 2.512 to 3.544% and 2.961 to 3.983% for indacaterol, glycopyrronium and mometasone, respectively. The limit of detection and the limit of quantification for indacaterol and mometasone were 0.03 and 0.10 μg mL−1 while for glycopyrronium, they were 0.16 and 0.50 μg mL−1. Highlights

Effect of 10-Day Treatment with 50 mg Prednisolone Once-Daily on Haemostasis in Healthy Men-A Randomised Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Synthetic corticosteroids are widely used due to their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant effects. Their use has been associated with venous thromboembolism, but it is unknown whether thromboembolism has a causal relationship with corticosteroid treatment. In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in normal to overweight healthy men, the effect of the corticosteroid prednisolone on haemostasis using either 50 mg prednisolone or matching placebo once daily for ten days was investigated. The primary outcome was a change from baseline in the viscoelastic measurement maximal amplitude of clot in kaolin-activated thromboelastography (TEG). Changes from baseline in other TEG measurements, D-dimer, von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen, and ristocetin cofactor activity (RCo), antithrombin, protein C, prothrombin, fibrinogen, INR, APTT, and platelet count were secondary outcomes. Thirty-four men participated in this study. Compared to placebo, prednisolone treatment did not affect maximal amplitude of clot (difference -0.77 (95% confidence interval (CI) -2.48, 0.94) mm, p = 0.37, missing: n = 2), but it altered VWF antigen (28%, p = 0.0004), VWF:RCo (19%, p = 0.0006), prothrombin (5%, p = 0.05), protein C (31%, p < 0.0001), antithrombin (5%, p = 0.013), and fibrinogen (-15%, p = 0.004). Thus, prednisolone treatment did not alter TEG-assessed maximal amplitude of clot, despite that it affected prothrombotic markers (increased prothrombin, VWF antigen, VWF:RCo, prothrombin, and decreased fibrinogen) and increased antithrombotic markers (protein C and antithrombin).

Exploring the Impact of Herbal Therapies on COVID-19 and Influenza: Investigating Novel Delivery Mechanisms for Emerging Interventions

Synthetic antivirals and corticosteroids have been used to treat both influenza and the SARS-CoV-2 disease named COVID-19. However, these medications are not always effective, produce several adverse effects, and are associated with high costs. Medicinal plants and their constituents act on several different targets and signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of influenza and COVID-19. This study aimed to perform a review to evaluate the effects of medicinal plants on influenza and COVID-19, and to investigate the potential delivery systems for new antiviral therapies. EMBASE, PubMed, GOOGLE SCHOLAR, and COCHRANE databases were searched. The studies included in this review showed that medicinal plants, in different formulations, can help to decrease viral spread and the time until full recovery. Plants reduced the incidence of acute respiratory syndromes and the symptom scores of the illnesses. Moreover, plants are related to few adverse effects and have low costs. In addition to their significance as natural antiviral agents, medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds may exhibit low bioavailability. This highlights the need for alternative delivery systems, such as metal nanoparticles, which can effectively transport these compounds to infected tissues.

The Evolution of Triamcinolone Acetonide Therapeutic Use in Retinal Diseases: From Off-Label Intravitreal Injection to Advanced Nano-Drug Delivery Systems.

Ophthalmic drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye has been challenging due to the complex ocular anatomy. Intravitreal injection of drugs was introduced to deliver therapeutic doses in the posterior segment. Different posterior segment diseases including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusions, uveitis, and cystoid macular edema, among others, have been historically treated with intravitreal corticosteroids injections, and more recently with intravitreal corticosteroids drug implants. Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is the most frequently used intraocular synthetic corticosteroid. Using nanoparticle-based TA delivery systems has been proposed as an alternative to intravitreal injections in the treatment of posterior segment diseases. From these novel delivery systems, topical liposomes have been the most promising strategy. This review is oriented to exhibit triamcinolone acetonide drug evolution and its results in treating posterior segment diseases using diverse delivery platforms.

Removal and mineralization of prednisolone from water by using homogeneous and heterogeneous electro-Fenton processes

Prednisolone (PRD) is a popular synthetic corticosteroid medication that discharging it into wastewater raises potential environmental issues. In terms of treatment methods, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), such as the electro-Fenton (EF) process, have been proposed as a potential option. This study investigates the removal of PRD from aqueous media using both homogeneous and heterogeneous EF processes. A reduced graphene oxide/Tin (IV) oxide/stainless steel mesh (rGO/SnO2/SSm) composite system was prepared as the cathode electrode, and a reduced graphene oxide/magnetite/cotton fabric (rGO/Fe3O4/CF) composite system was prepared as the heterogeneous catalyst. The optimization of process parameters for each system was carried out using response surface methodology (RSM). The removal efficiencies of PRD were determined under optimal conditions. The homogeneous EF process achieved an 83.79% removal efficiency, while the heterogeneous EF process achieved a 74.62% removal efficiency. The properties of the heterogeneous catalyst and the cathode electrode were investigated using SEM, XRD, FT-IR, CV and EDX analyses. GC-MS and TOC analyses were performed to evaluate degradation intermediates and mineralization efficiency. The stability and reusability of the heterogeneous catalyst and the synthesized cathode electrode were evaluated. These findings offer insightful information about the use of EF methods for PRD removal.

H16 Arsenic to biologics: psoriasis treatment through the ages

Abstract In the 19th century when arsenic was the recommended treatment for psoriasis, little consideration was given to the toxic side-effects of the potent carcinogen. Thomas Girdlestone, an English physician, is said to have been the first to advocate for the use of arsenic to treat psoriasis. Girdlestone prescribed Fowler’s solution, a solution of potassium arsenite 1%. In 1876, Alexander John Balmanno Squire inadvertently discovered dithranol, a known treatment for ringworm, to be efficacious in treating psoriasis. However, it was Eugen Galewsky, in 1916, who then went on to synthesize anthralin, a synthetic form of dithranol, to target psoriasis. A key historical figure was William H. Geockerman, an American dermatologist, who developed Goekerman therapy—a regimen that combined the use of coal tar and ultraviolet (UV) light to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. In 1953, John Ingram, an English dermatologist, discovered that the beneficial effects of dithranol paste could be enhanced by adding it to coal tar and UV light—later coined the ‘Ingram regimen’. Philip Showalter Hench, Edward Calvin Kendall and Tadeus Reichstein received the Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology for the development of cortisone; it proved to be useful in topically treating many skin diseases, but it had a limited effect on psoriasis. The production of synthetic corticosteroids soon followed, which, conversely, proved to be successful in treating psoriasis. However, the daunting side-effects of corticosteroids limited their long-term use. In 1951, a patient with rheumatoid arthritis showed dramatic improvement in their psoriasis when treated with aminopterin, as recorded by Richard Gubner, a New York cardiologist. PUVA was developed in the 1970s—a photochemotherapy for psoriasis that combined psoralen with UVA radiation to clear skin lesions. Interestingly, in 1500 Bc, the ancient Egyptians were known to use a combination of psoralen and sunlight to treat vitiligo. Furthermore, in the 1980s, researchers noted complete clearance of psoriasis in a patient with osteoporosis who was prescribed an oral form of vitamin D. This chance observation then led to the development of topical vitamin D analogues for the treatment of psoriasis that work by encouraging normal skin growth and slowing down overproduction of skin cells. Finally, in 2003, the first biologic treatments were approved for psoriasis by the US Food and Drug Administration—a significantly safer and more efficacious alternative to the controversial arsenic treatments that were used over 200 years ago.

Early life corticosteroid overexposure: Epigenetic and fetal origins of adult diseases.

The relationship between events occurring during intrauterine development and later-life predisposition to long-term disease, has been described. The fetus responds to excess intrauterine exposure to high levels of corticosteroids, modifying their physiological development and stopping their growth. Fetal exposure to elevated levels of either endogenous (alterations in fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) or synthetic corticosteroids, is one model of early-life adversity; to developing adult disease. At the molecular level, there are transcriptional changes in metabolic and growth pathways. Epigenetic mechanisms participate in transgenerational inheritance, not genomic. Exposures that change 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 enzyme methylation status in the placenta can result in transcriptional repression of the gene, causing the fetus to be exposed to higher levels of cortisol. More precise diagnosis and management of antenatal corticosteroids for preterm birth, would potentially decrease the risk of long-term adverse outcomes. More studies are needed to understand the potential roles of factors to alter fetal corticosteroid exposure. Long-term infant follow-up is required to determine whether methylation changes in placenta may represent useful biomarkers of later disease risk. This review, summarize recent advances in the programming of fetal effects of corticosteroid exposure, the role of corticosteroids in epigenetic gene regulation of placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 enzyme expression and transgenerational effects.

Circadian regulation of hippocampal function is disrupted with corticosteroid treatment

Disrupted circadian activity is associated with many neuropsychiatric disorders. A major coordinator of circadian biological systems is adrenal glucocorticoid secretion which exhibits a pronounced preawakening peak that regulates metabolic, immune, and cardiovascular processes, as well as mood and cognitive function. Loss of this circadian rhythm during corticosteroid therapy is often associated with memory impairment. Surprisingly, the mechanisms that underlie this deficit are not understood. In this study, in rats, we report that circadian regulation of the hippocampal transcriptome integrates crucial functional networks that link corticosteroid-inducible gene regulation to synaptic plasticity processes via an intrahippocampal circadian transcriptional clock. Further, these circadian hippocampal functions were significantly impacted by corticosteroid treatment delivered in a 5-d oral dosing treatment protocol. Rhythmic expression of the hippocampal transcriptome, as well as the circadian regulation of synaptic plasticity, was misaligned with the natural light/dark circadian-entraining cues, resulting in memory impairment in hippocampal-dependent behavior. These findings provide mechanistic insights into how the transcriptional clock machinery within the hippocampus is influenced by corticosteroid exposure, leading to adverse effects on critical hippocampal functions, as well as identifying a molecular basis for memory deficits in patients treated with long-acting synthetic corticosteroids.

Investigation of the Excretion of Triamcinolone Acetonide and Its Metabolite

Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is a synthetic corticosteroid commonly used in medical practice to treat various skin conditions, including eczema, dermatitis, and allergies. It is a highly potent derivative of triamcinolone, with a strength that is about eight times greater than prednisone. Although it is sometimes used by athletes, it is important to note that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibits the use of glucocorticoids in competition when administered via injection, oral (including oromucosal, such as buccal, gingival, or sublingual), or rectal routes. However, they are allowed if administered otherwise, such as via inhalation or topical application to the skin. Anti-doping laboratories generally report Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF) for glucocorticoid group substances when their estimated concentration exceeds 30 ng/mL, with some exceptions such as triamcinolone acetonide, which has a reporting limit of 15 ng/mL. It is important to note that this only applies to the parent compound of specified metabolites. To address interpretation issues that can arise with other glucocorticoids, such as budesonide, the authors of this study investigated whether similar issues occur with triamcinolone acetonide. Specifically, they examined whether therapeutic doses of the commonly used medication Previsone could result in anti-doping rule violations due to the presence of triamcinolone acetonide and its metabolites in urine. The study involved ten healthy volunteers, and the analytical procedure was developed using liquid/liquid extraction, hydrolysis, and LC/MS/MS analysis. The results of the study showed that topical administration of therapeutic doses of Previsone does not pose a threat of anti-doping rules violation, as the excretion of the parent compound does not exceed the reporting limit in urine. Additionally, the concentration of 6β-hydroxy Triamcinolone acetonide was also well below the reporting limit.

The Bovine Herpesvirus 1 Latency-Reactivation Cycle, a Chronic Problem in the Cattle Industry.

Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) is a persistent and recurring disease that affects cattle worldwide. It is a major contributor to bovine respiratory disease and reproductive failure in the US. A major complication of BoHV-1 arises from the lifelong latent infection established in the sensory ganglia of the peripheral nervous system following acute infection. Lifelong latency is marked by periodic reactivation from latency that leads to virus transmission and transient immunosuppression. Physiological and environmental stress, along with hormone fluctuations, can drive virus reactivation from latency, allowing the virus to spread rapidly. This review discusses the mechanisms of the latency/reactivation cycle, with particular emphasis on how different hormones directly regulate BoHV-1 gene expression and productive infection. Glucocorticoids, including the synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone, are major effectors of the stress response. Stress directly regulates BoHV-1 gene expression through multiple pathways, including β-catenin dependent Wnt signaling, and the glucocorticoid receptor. Related type 1 nuclear hormone receptors, the androgen and progesterone receptors, also drive BoHV-1 gene expression and productive infection. These receptors form feed-forward transcription loops with the stress-induced Krüppel-like transcription factors KLF4 and KLF15. Understanding these molecular pathways is critical for developing novel therapeutics designed to block reactivation and reduce virus spread and disease.

Trends and Application of Analytical Methods for the Identification and Quantification of Dexamethasone in Drug Delivery System

Background: Dexamethasone (DEXA) is a potent synthetic corticosteroid derived from the cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene nucleus known for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities. Due to its therapeutic effects, several analytical methods have been used for its quantitative determination and physicochemical characterization, as well as for the evaluation of pharmacological and toxicological properties. Objective: This review aimed to describe the principles and methods commonly used to identify and quantify DEXA in drug delivery systems and biological samples. The methods herein discussed are high-performance liquid chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance, x-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, ultravioletvisible spectrophotometry and thin layer chromatography. Conclusion: This review provided a wide variety of analytical methods that can be used for the quantification and identification of drugs, providing scientists with great support during the development of scientific research, as well as ensuring the quality of the manufacturing processes as well as the resulting products. Therefore, the use of such analytical methods has become critical throughout the process of developing pharmaceutical formulations containing DEXA.

Stress Triggers Expression of Bovine Herpesvirus 1 Infected Cell Protein 4 (bICP4) RNA during Early Stages of Reactivation from Latency in Pharyngeal Tonsil.

Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), an important pathogen of cattle, establishes lifelong latency in sensory neurons within trigeminal ganglia (TG) after acute infection. The BoHV-1 latency-reactivation cycle, like other alphaherpesvirinae subfamily members, is essential for viral persistence and transmission. Notably, cells within pharyngeal tonsil (PT) also support a quiescent or latent BoHV-1 infection. The synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone, which mimics the effects of stress, consistently induces BoHV-1 reactivation from latency allowing early stages of viral reactivation to be examined in the natural host. Based on previous studies, we hypothesized that stress-induced cellular factors trigger expression of key viral transcriptional regulatory genes. To explore this hypothesis, RNA-sequencing studies compared viral gene expression in PT during early stages of dexamethasone-induced reactivation from latency. Strikingly, RNA encoding infected cell protein 4 (bICP4), which is translated into an essential viral transcriptional regulatory protein, was detected 30 min after dexamethasone treatment. Ninety minutes after dexamethasone treatment bICP4 and, to a lesser extent, bICP0 RNA were detected in PT. All lytic cycle viral transcripts were detected within 3 h after dexamethasone treatment. Surprisingly, the latency related (LR) gene, the only viral gene abundantly expressed in latently infected TG neurons, was not detected in PT during latency. In TG neurons, bICP0 and the viral tegument protein VP16 are expressed before bICP4 during reactivation, suggesting distinct viral regulatory genes mediate reactivation from latency in PT versus TG neurons. Finally, these studies confirm PT is a biologically relevant site for BoHV-1 latency, reactivation from latency, and virus transmission. IMPORTANCE BoHV-1, a neurotropic herpesvirus, establishes, maintains, and reactivates from latency in neurons. BoHV-1 DNA is also detected in pharyngeal tonsil (PT) from latently infected calves. RNA-sequencing studies revealed the viral infected cell protein 4 (bICP4) RNA was expressed in PT of latently infected calves within 30 min after dexamethasone was used to initiate reactivation. As expected, bICP4 RNA was not detected during latency. All lytic cycle viral genes were expressed within 3 h after dexamethasone treatment. Conversely, bICP0 and the viral tegument protein VP16 are expressed prior to bICP4 in trigeminal ganglionic neurons during reactivation. The viral latency related gene, which is abundantly expressed in latently infected neurons, was not abundantly expressed in PT during latency. These studies provide new evidence PT is a biologically relevant site for BoHV-1 latency and reactivation. Finally, we predict other alphaherpesvirinae subfamily members utilize PT as a site for latency and reactivation.

Cultured Neonatal Murine Primary Myotubes as a Model to Study Muscle Atrophy

Besides genetic disorders, skeletal muscle atrophy mainly occurs as a consequence of underlying conditions such as prolonged inactivity, aging, and metabolic diseases, ultimately contributing to the risk of disability. Disturbances in cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in proteolysis and protein synthesis underpin muscle fiber shrinkage and decreased muscle fiber diameter. Stress-induced primary myotube culture is an established model for studying muscle atrophy. An in vitro model is an essential criterion in establishing preliminary data in a cell-autonomous manner that can later be validated using in vivo models. Here, we describe protocols for the isolation, culture, and differentiation of primary murine myotubes and the induction of myotube atrophy using dexamethasone, a synthetic corticosteroid. We further elaborate the procedure to validate degenerative parameters, such as assessing muscle fiber diameter, expression of muscle atrophy genes, and protein synthesis status under dexamethasone treatment. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Isolation and culture of primary myoblasts from rat or mouse pups Support Protocol 1: Preparation of coated tissue culture ware Support Protocol 2: Subculture of myoblasts Basic Protocol 2: Induction and assessment of myotube atrophy.

Comparative Efficacy of Intralesional Triamcinolone Acetonide and 5-Fluorouracil for Keloid Scars.

Intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TAC; a synthetic corticosteroid) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU; a cytotoxic chemotherapy drug) are the medications most commonly used to treat keloid scars. We investigated the clinical efficacy of TAC compared with 5-FU. We included 40 patients in the study and divided them into two equal groups ( n = 20 Group A; n = 20 Group B). Group A patients received 4 mg/cm 2 or 0.1 ml/cm 2 of intralesional TAC (40 mg/ml) at 3-week intervals. Group B patients received 10 mg/cm 2 or 0.2 ml/cm 2 of intralesional 5-FU (50 mg/ml) at 3-week intervals. We assessed the scar using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), visual analog scale (VAS), and patient satisfaction score (PSS). We found that Group A patients had a lower VAS than Group B patients (2.09 vs. 3.18). We saw a reduction in the VSS in both treatment arms; however, we found that Group B patients had a more marked reduction in the VSS compared with Group A patients (2.57 vs. 2.68). The PSS was higher in Group A than in Group B (1.97 vs. 1.78). We concluded that intralesional 5-FU elicits a better response than intralesional TAC. Although 5-FU is less well tolerated and has more side effects than TAC, we found that 5-FU was more effective in resolving keloid scars. Notably, the PSS was higher in the TAC group, but the VSS and VAS were better in Group B.

Dexamethasone: Therapeutic Applications, Targets and Translation

Dexamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid that has historically been used to treat inflammation, such as from osteoarthritis, spinal cord injury and, more recently, COVID-19. The mechanism of action of dexamethasone is generally known to include attenuation of pro-inflammatory responses as well as upregulation of anti-inflammatory elements. A major issue with the use of dexamethasone is its delivery, as it is normally administered in large quantities via methods like bolus injection to attempt to maintain sufficient concentrations days or weeks after administration. In this review, we examine the mechanism of action of dexamethasone and its effects on three major cell types in the context of specific diseases: macrophages in the context of COVID, chondrocytes in the context of osteoarthritis, and astrocytes in the context of neuro-inflammatory disease. From this, we identify the key proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1) and Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-a) as universal effectors of inflammation that should be targeted alongside dexamethasone administration. Additionally, we review current extended release dosing mechanisms for dexamethasone to act over periods of weeks and months. We suggest that dual treatment of dexamethasone with IL-1 and/or TNF-a monoclonal antibodies will be an effective immediate treatment for inflammation, while the addition of fully developed dexamethasone extended release mechanisms will allow for effective long-term control of inflammatory disease.

Novel 3D-Printed Dressings of Chitosan-Vanillin-Modified Chitosan Blends Loaded with Fluticasone Propionate for Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis.

In the present study, the blends of CS and Vanillin–CS derivative (VACS) were utilized for the preparation of printable inks for their application in three-dimensional (3D) printing procedures. Despite the synergic interaction between the blends, the addition of ι-carrageenan (iCR) as a thickening agent was mandatory. Their viscosity analysis was conducted for the evaluation of the optimum CS/VACS ratio. The shear thinning behavior along with the effect of the temperature on viscosity values were evident. Further characterization of the 3D-printed structures was conducted. The effect of the CS/VACS ratio was established through swelling and contact angle measurements. An increasing amount of VACS resulted in lower swelling ability along with higher hydrophobicity. Fluticasone propionate (FLU), a crystalline synthetic corticosteroid, was loaded into the CS/VACS samples. The drug was loaded in its amorphous state, and consequently, its in vitro release was significantly enhanced. An initial burst release, followed by a sustained release profile, was observed.

Cyclodextrin Nanosponge Based Babchi Oil Hydrogel Ameliorates Imiquimod-induced Psoriasis in Swiss Mice: An Impact on Safety and Efficacy

Background: Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease, involves the integration of biological and molecular events by hyperproliferation of the epidermal keratinocytes and generation of inflammation markers. Owing to severe complications of synthetic corticosteroids, there is a strong need for a potential and safe alternative. Babchi oil (natural essential oil; BO) may prove to be a promising natural agent for psoriasis. Objective: The aim of the present work was to investigate the safety and efficacy of cyclodextrin nanosponge based babchi oil (BONS) hydrogel on skin annexes. Methods: Babchi Oil Nanosponge Hydrogel (BONS-HG) was fabricated and evaluated. Cell viability studies have been carried out on THP1 cell lines to evaluate cytocompatibility. Irritation potential and in vivo visualization of cutaneous uptake of BONS-HG were carried out using Hen’s Egg Chorioallantoic Membrane Test (HET-CAM) and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), respectively. The nano hydrogel was tested in vivo using imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model. Results: The in vitro irritation potential of BONS-HG indicated no sign of erythema or irritation, suggesting the safety of prepared hydrogel as topical formulation. CLSM studies advocated targeting of BO to epidermis and dermis. Along with histopathological assessment, evaluation of oxidative stress markers revealed the significant antipsoriatic activity (p&lt; 0.001) of the prepared BONS-HG. Conclusion: The present study amalgamated the advantages of natural essential oil with this approach for skin targeting and provided an effective and safe topical alternative for psoriasis.

The serum immunoglobulin G titres against Porphyromonas gingivalis as a predictor of clinical response to 1-year treatment with biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in rheumatoid arthritis patients: A retrospective cohort study.

The aim is to evaluate the relevance of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) titres against periodontopathic bacteria to predict the clinical response to 1-year treatment with biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Data were collected from 50 RA patients who had received conventional synthetic DMARDs, corticosteroids, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs before (baseline) and after 1-year treatment with bDMARDs in a retrospective cohort study. Changes in rheumatologic conditions were compared between the two groups for low and high baseline IgG titres against Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans according to their median measurements. Twenty-five patients with low anti-P. gingivalis IgG titres showed significantly greater decreases in changes in the Clinical Disease Activity Index and swollen joint count than 25 patients with high anti-P. gingivalis IgG titres (p = .04 for both). Bivariate and multivariate analyses revealed a significantly positive association of baseline anti-P. gingivalis IgG titres with Clinical Disease Activity Index changes (p = .02 and p = .002). However, post-treatment rheumatologic conditions were comparable between 25 patients each in the low and high baseline anti-A. actinomycetemcomitans IgG titre groups. Baseline serum anti-P. gingivalis IgG titres are predictive of the clinical response to 1-year treatment with bDMARDs in RA patients.

Evaluation of histological changes induced by prednisolone and cyclophosphamide in some organs of male albino mice

Prednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid used to treat various diseases. It is known to be used to treat many conditions such as autoimmune diseases and asthma. Cyclophosphamide is a type of nitrogen mustard therapy that works by alkylation of DNA and is used as an immunosuppressant in rheumatoid arthritis and the treatment of many cancers as well. Due to the wide use of these two drugs, the study aimed to evaluate the histological changes in the liver, kidneys, and small intestine of mice. Seventy-five adult mice aged 8-12 weeks were used which were divided into three groups, the first group was orally dosed with 0.1 mg/kg prednisolone, the second group was orally dosed with 0.1 mg/kg cyclophosphamide, and the third group received orally distilled water for 30 days daily. After 24 hours of the last treatment, the animals were sacrificed and the organs (liver, kidney, small intestine) were taken out and placed in 10% formalin solution until histological techniques were performed. The results of the study showed a statically significant difference at P>0.05 of histological changes in the studied organs represented by necrosis, fibrosis, cell degeneration, congestion, and hemorrhage of blood vessels and inflammatory cells when compared with the control group, and that the highest significant difference for these changes was at grade 1 and 2. Our study confirms that these drugs cause histological changes that differed in severity between organs as well as within a single organ when compared to the control group and that cyclophosphamide causes more histological changes than prednisolone.

Synthesis of Pt/GO composite as an electrochemical sensor for determination of synthetic corticosteroid triamcinolone as doping agents in sports

Synthesis of Pt/GO composite as an electrochemical sensor for determination of synthetic corticosteroid triamcinolone as doping agents in sports