Current Drug Therapy - Volume 19, Issue 4, 2024

The coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2) greatly impacts the world. Despite great biomedical efforts, approximately 30-50% global population was at least once infected with COVID. Human life expectancy is reduced by COVID-19 epidemics worldwide. It is indispensable to prevent and treat COVID-19 as effectively as possible. In order to well prevent and treat the coronavirus infection, clinical diagnostic or therapeutic paradigms should be updated. Since the outside condition of COVID-19 prevention is imbalanced among regions and countries, global prevention and treatment action should be aimed. Despite global vaccination for COVID, a significant proportion of humans still constantly exposes and infected with viruses. Advanced viral biological knowledge and vaccine techniques can alleviate viral spread and promote therapeutics. Universal and specific preventive and treatment paradigms should be designed, integrated, and introduced. The origin and hidden nature of COVID-19 biology and pathogenesis are broadly understood now. Viral vaccines, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and personalized medicine are progressing rapidly. Many viral vaccines and personalized medicine should be especially emphasized. To speed up global efforts against COVID-19, new knowledge and breakthroughs of viral transmissibility, vaccine technique innovation, diagnostic widening, and therapeutic variability worldwide are discussed. Different strategic platforms and landscapes can reach different outcomes. By facilitating global machinery against different variants of COVID, viral-induced socioeconomic burden and imbalance could be reduced.

Gastric cancer is the fourth leading cause of morbidity worldwide and is known to affect various gastric organs, including the esophagus, intestine, colon, and pancreas. There are variable factors responsible for the development of gastric tumors, such as environmental factors, EPV, hepatitis B and C, and other genetic factors. Phytoactives, or secondary metabolites of plants, have a wide range of biological impacts, including the capacity to prevent cancer in humans. They have this anticancerous impact because of their multi-target mechanism of action, which also includes antioxidant, anti-proliferative, cell apoptosis, and anti-mutagenic effects. To epitomize the role of vital dietary phytoactives as a new approach for treating gastric cancer and explains various mechanisms for their anticancerous activity. H. pylori-associated gastric tumors are the most common, and Phytoactives such as curcumin, piperine, walnut oil, tea, and others possess anticancer properties. They have shown anticancer activity against gastric tumor cell lines via different mechanisms like cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation, adhesion, colonization of cancer cells, inhibition of inflammatory mediators, tumor cell bioenergetics, up and down-regulation of various gene and protein expression, and chelation and scavenging of ROS.

Background: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), as an expensive medication under a national shortage, has been widely used for the treatment of several autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiency syndromes. Although conducting studies on therapeutic indications of IVIG has increased significantly, a limited number of researches have investigated individualized dosing in terms of the drug, disease state, and some patient-specific factors like obesity. Objective: The objective of the review was to describe the impact of various weight-based dosing regimens on the pharmacokinetics parameters, efficacy, safety, and cost of IVIG and to choose the best dosing approach for obese patients. Methods and Results: Thirteen of the total 128 manuscripts collected, reviewed, and analyzed were found from Scopus, PubMed, and Google scholar. Discussion: The evidence suggests that obesity may have an impact on IVIG pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy. Conclusion: The logical approach is to initial the dose based on the ideal or adjusted body weight and then modify the maintenance dose according to the patient's clinical response.

Background: Growing public awareness of chronic pain resulting from illness and injury has prompted pharmaceutical researchers and drug corporations to create better, more targeted painkillers. For effective pain management, prolonged analgesic medication delivery at the intended areas continues to be a major problem such as addiction, tolerance and other serious side effects, which can prolong suffering and decrease painkiller effectiveness. Objective: The present paper focuses on review of current advances in the field of pain treatment by different nanoparticles formulations of various drugs, by enhancing their pharmacokinetic factors and diminishing associated adverse effects. Results: According to literature survey, usage of nano-carriers enables the delivery of these drugs to target locations with less systemic toxicity. Nanotechnology for varied therapeutic purposes, different analgesics have been loaded onto different nano carriers, including those that are natural, synthetic, and polymeric and proven to be beneficial in pain management. Conclusion: Overall, new nano based preparations and new ways to utilize existing medications in a variety of circumstances is a multimodal approach to pain relief, have resulted in recent advancements in the pharmacological management of pain.

Nanoscale machines called “nanorobots” that were hitherto only futuristic ideas are set to storm healthcare and pharmaceuticals with newer technologies for minimally invasive diagnosis, quick and precise surgeries, and targeted drug delivery, which is challenging to achieve by conventional drug delivery systems. Nanobots can be defined as controllable nano-sized mechanical or electromechanical devices which are easily incorporated into cells and used for a variety of cellular functions like combating bacteria and viruses, disposing away dead cells/tissue at the place of a wound, cell/tissue repair and destruction of cancer cells, and also for transporting drugs to cells. Nanorobots can help avoid the untoward effects of traditional drug delivery systems and ameliorate the efficiency of drug delivery by quickly entering the desired cells without affecting other organs. With the advent of mobile communication, artificial neural networks, and Information Technology, futuristic and more advanced nanobots with artificial intelligence are in the offing. However, the challenges to this revolutionary technology are umpteen, the major concern being their interaction inside the human body. This review explicitly expounds on nanobots and their applications to medicine, biomedical research, and drug delivery.

In recent years, microparticulate systems have drawn growing attention as a viable strategy for delivering cells, proteins, and medications to target areas. The Nanoparticles-in-Microparticles System (NiMS) is a drug delivery method that combines nano- and microparticles to deliver medications or genes to particular bodily regions with precision. A promising method for achieving dual or multiple functions inside a formulation is the development of nanoparticle-in-microparticle systems (NiMS). NiMS comprises a microparticle (M.P.) matrix and one or more nanoparticles (N.P.s). The N.P.s can be designed to provide specific functionality, such as targeted drug delivery or imaging, while the M.P. matrix can be tailored to provide sustained release or protect the N.P.s from degradation. NiMS offer several advantages over traditional formulations, including the ability to control release profiles and achieve site-specific delivery. By combining different types of N.P.s and M.P.s, it is possible to create formulations that release drugs at different rates or with different kinetics, allowing for tailored treatment regimens. Additionally, by lowering off-target effects and boosting efficacy, the site-specific targeting offered by NiMS can enhance the therapeutic index of medications. Microparticles are small, micron-sized particles that can be loaded with therapeutic agents and designed to deliver them to specific tissues in the body. The pharmaceutical sector is developing microparticulate delivery systems for oral, pulmonary, and cutaneous administration. For instance, a promising strategy for treating respiratory conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is the development of inhalable microparticles (COPD). Moreover, the use of microparticles for topical drug delivery is being studied, where they can be formulated into creams, gels, or patches for treating skin disorders. The composition of microparticles is crucial for successful tissue regeneration because the particles must be biocompatible and able to interact with the cells in the targeted tissue. In addition, the size and shape of the particles can affect their behavior and how they interact with cells. Chemical and biological sensors and devices, optical detectors, electronic components, and nanoscale production depend on nanostructures because they offer unique properties, such as increased surface area and enhanced reactivity, which can be exploited to create more efficient and effective devices.

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a reproductive, metabolic, and endocrine disorder with unclear aetiology. PCOS, the most common cause of female reproductive and metabolic disorders, is known to affect more than one in ten women globally. PCOS and associated clinical manifestations are probably underdiagnosed despite their high occurrence. Objectives: Alternative animal models have been employed to investigate the causes of PCOS or assess potential treatments. In light of this piece of information, it is challenging to create an animal model that accurately captures all components of this condition; nonetheless, the resemblance of an animal model's biology and/or biochemical characteristics to the phenotypes of PCOS in humans may boost its applicability. Results: The key characteristics of these models are closer to human situations when compared to women with PCOS, as shown by this comparison. The creation and testing of drugs for the treatment of PCOS are necessary. Conclusion: The overview of PCOS, current preclinical models, and appropriate models chosen in different studies to mimic various phenotypes in PCOS studies are all covered in this review paper. Additionally, we have outlined the benefits and drawbacks of PCOS animal models.

Leprosy is curable and can be treated with multidrug therapy in the early stages. As a result, we chose a Scientometrics evaluation of leprosy research guides on adverse drug reactions to better grasp the current popularity of drug-related responses. During the 2010-2021 a study with a total of 48 publications was selected. This study aims to analyze scientometric tools such as frequency distribution, percentage analysis, double-related growth rate, and interaction rate. During the study period, 7 (14.58%) study publications were submitted in 2018. The related growth rate is identified by decreasing trend and the double time is growing from 2010 to 2021. The 11 published study sizes (22.92%) were provided by top writers, the average Degree of Collaboration is 0.96, and 19 (39.58%) published research articles by headers. India is the largest supplier of 21 leprosy research publications (43.75%). As India is the most productive country in leprosy research, hence there are four out of the top five institutions that are from the Indian center that is listed among the most productive institutions.

Background: Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl. is an important medicinal plant of the genus Dendrobium from the Orchidaceae family. Gigantol is one of the key bioactive phytochemicals found in Dendrobium plants. Gigantol is reported to have diverse pharmacological activities. Aims: This narrative review explores the analytical aspects along with pharmacological activities of gigantol as reported in different scientific publications. Methods: To find appropriate information related to Dendrobium plants and gigantol, extensive data extraction was done using ScienceDirect, Google, PubMed, and Scopus databases, and diverse facts were collected, arranged and analyzed to know the therapeutic potential of gigantol. Analytical aspects of gigantol were also discussed in the present work. Results: Gigantol has a wide distribution in the Dendrobium officinale, Dendrobium chrysanthum, Dendrobium crystallinum, Dendrobium aphyllum, and Dendrobium devonianum. Available data indicates diverse pharmacological activities of gigantol. Preclinical studies have shown its effectiveness in the treatment of cataractogenesis, liver injury, leishmaniasis, nephrotoxicity, spasm, and skin disorders. Gigantol has been found to control hepatocellular cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, and cervical cancer. The neuroprotective, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, vasorelaxant, immune modulatory effect, antimalarial, and anti-herpetic properties of gigantol have also been observed. Applications of different analytical techniques for the isolation and characterization of gigantol were also discussed in detail. Conclusion: Gigantol has significant and diverse pharmacological activities that must be explored in clinical setup to develop therapeutic leads for different diseases and health conditions.

Background: The defining features of dry eye syndrome, a frequent tear and ocular surface multifactorial disorder, are changes in the ocular surface epithelia linked with less tear production and elevated sensitivity of the ocular surface, which trigger an inflammatory response. Aqueous deficit dry eye and evaporated dry eye are the two common types of dry eye. A few of the testing methods used to detect Dry Eye Disease are the Schirmer’s test, Tear Meniscus Volume, Tear Break-up Time, Tear Film Thickness, Meibomian Gland Infrared Meibography, Lissamine Green Staining, and Rose Bengal Staining. Hyperosmolarity and instability are the main pathogenic processes of dry eye disease. These systems are intricately linked to one another and create a "vicious circle" that never ends. Objective: The objective of this review was to describe patented formulations, novel drug delivery systems and herbal drugs for Dry Eye Disease. Results: Following a thorough assessment, the current study has elaborated a number of patented formulations in the form of contact lenses, biomarkers, novel approaches, and emulsions (traditional dosage forms) as well as natural medicines. In comparison to standard dosage forms, contact lenses and novel approaches have longer contact times and higher bioavailability. Conclusion: In this paper, the diagnostic methods of dry eye disease, the outcomes of pathophysiology, herbal treatments, nanotherapeutics, and current patented medicine formulations are described.

Background: Increased levels of oxidative stress are connected with depression. Due to the melatonin's antioxidant effects and Vitamin D3 (Vit D3)'s regulatory effect on the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors, the present study investigated the possible protective effect of melatonin and Vit D3 combination on restraint stress-induced depression-like behaviors in mice. Methods: After being subjected to restraint stress, mice were divided into six groups using a randomization process. These groups included non-stressed and stressed vehicle-treated groups, as well as groups treated with Vit D3 (25 μg/kg/day), melatonin (10 mg/kg) or fluoxetine. A group also received a combination of both melatonin and Vit D3. The Forced Swimming Test (FST), and Open Field Test (OFT) were conducted to evaluate behavioural changes. The Malondialdehyde (MDA) level and Catalase (CAT), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity, and ADP/ATP ratio were evaluated in the hippocampus of mice. Results: Restraint stress lengthened the immobility period in FST, while melatonin, Vit D3, and their combination all significantly reversed this impact. Co-administration of melatonin and Vit D3 was more effective than melatonin or Vit D3 administration alone at reducing immobility time. The exposure of mice to restraint stress has been linked to an elevation in the ADP/ATP ratio and oxidative stress in their hippocampus; however, these effects are reversed by the administration of melatonin and Vit D3 (10 mg/kg) alone or in combination. Melatonin and Vit D3 combination increased the hippocampus CAT activity compared with melatonin and Vit D3 alone. Conclusion: The current study's findings suggested that Vit D3 may enhance melatonin's potential as an antidepressant in FST.

Background: Marine sediments are rich sources for isolating active secondary metabolites from microorganisms. Among the microorganisms, Actinomycetes are highly important due to the production of various chemical compounds in a wide range of biological activities, such as antibacterial activity. Streptomyces is the most important genera in the family of Actinomycetes. As a member of this group, it has great potential in the production of secondary metabolites such as antibiotics, enzymes, herbicides, anti-carcinogenic, and other useful compounds. Objective: This study aims to identify bioactive compounds of Streptomyces isolated from sediments of the Salt Lake of Qom and to study their antimicrobial properties against standard strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: In this study, 20 samples were collected from a depth of 5 to 15-20 cm of sediment in the Salt Lake of Qom. Pure cultivations were then provided from these samples. This study used starch casein agar (SCA) to isolate streptomyces, and 35 Streptomyces were isolated. The disc diffusion method was used to explore the antimicrobial properties of Streptomyces against clinical strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and strains standard of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PTCC 1310. Results: Seven strains, including SCA3 SCB1, SCB4, SCB8, SCC15, SCC18, and SCC28 strains, had antimicrobial properties. In this study, the results show that SCC15 with the halo diameter of 17, 17, 15, and 19 contains the best antibacterial properties against clinical strains 1, 2 and 3 of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PTCC 1310. among the 16 peaks observed by GC/MS to identify bioactive compounds of Streptomyces, it was found that Bis (2-ethyl hexyl) phthalate, with 69.06 percent, had the highest peak production, which reflects the importance of phthalates in microbial activities. Conclusion: According to the results, the Salt Lake of Qom was one of the sources of Streptomyces. In addition, the isolated Streptomyces had antimicrobial properties against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. It was also found that phthalate was the most bioactive substance of Streptomyces isolated.