Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology - Volume 14, Issue 6, 2013

Objective: RA is one of autoimmune diseases, has drawn great attention of the world. Currently, the anti- IL-1β monoclonal antibody Canakinumab (ACZ885) for treatment of RA has entered into clinical trials. However, Full length antibody has large molecular weight, and is difficult to penetrate the tissue or the nidus. In contrast, scFv has low molecular weight and strong penetration ability, and is favorable to increase the drug c Read More

Niemann-Pick type C disease (NPC) is an inherited disorder mainly caused by loss-of-function mutations in the NPC1 gene, that lead to intracellular cholesterol accumulation and disturbed cholesterol homeostasis. Similarly to Alzheimer's disease (AD), NPC is associated with progressive neurodegeneration and altered metabolism of amyloid precursor protein (APP). Liver X receptors (LXRs), the key transcriptional regulat Read More

Edible plant vaccines are immunogenic preparations containing antigenic proteins rather than pathogens, therefore, they sanctify situation where there is a possibility of resurgence of disease when the antigenic preparation contains the organism in any form whatsoever. Expression of antigens as vaccines and of antibodies against antigens of pathogens in transgenic plants is a convenient and inexpensive source for various bact Read More

Plasmid vaccination is a smart gene delivery application mostly achieved through the utilisation of viral or copolymeric systems as surrogated carriers in micro or nano formulations. A common polymeric protocol for plasmid vaccine formulation, which as somewhat been successful, is via the complexation of the DNA molecules with a cationic polymer, and encapsulating in a vehicular carrier polymer. Even though plasmid Read More

The ATP-binding cassette A1 (ABCA1) transporter plays a major role in the efflux of lipids by mediating the cellular transport of phospholipids and cholesterol to lipid-poor/lipid-free apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) particles and thereby exerting important anti-atherogenic effects. Although the mechanism whereby ABCA1 mediates cholesterol efflux is not completely understood, numerous studies have shown that, in addition to Read More

The human metabolism is regulated by our internal clock; the circadian rhythm (24h-25h). There are several factors included in the regulatory pathway such as; genes (PER1-3), (CRY1-2), TIM hormones (cortisol, catecholamines, melatonin and insulin) drugs, enzymes, sleep disorders and diseases. Each one contributes in a different degree and in order to enhance the therapeutic result; we should include these factors into Read More