Recent Advances in Inflammation & Allergy Drug Discovery - Online First

Acanthosis Nigricans is a dermatological condition characterized by hyperpigmented velvet plaques that can be observed in flexural areas such as the neck, axilla, and groin. AN is frequently associated with insulin resistance and obesity, however, it can also appear in non-obese people and as a paraneoplastic disease. Its prevalence varies across different populations, with higher rates observed in individuals with obesity, diabetes, and certain genetic syndromes. Classification of AN can be based on underlying etiology, distinguishing primary and secondary forms. Pathogenesis is the complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, with insulin resistance playing a central role. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation of characteristics of skin changes, often requiring further investigation for underlying systemic disease. Topical therapies involve keratolytic agents, retinoids, and alpha hydroxyl acids to improve the cosmesis and reduce the plaque's thickness. Treatment strategies address underlying conditions by emphasizing lifestyle modifications and in some cases, pharmacological interventions.

This review aims to comprehensively examine the pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, and management of acanthosis nigricans.

AN is closely linked to insulin resistance, characterized by impaired cellular response to insulin, leading to compensatory hyperinsulinemia. Recognizing AN’s clinical presentation is paramount for early diagnosis and appropriate management.

Acanthosis Nigricans is a skin condition characterized by dark, thickened patches of skin, typically occurring in skin folds and creases. It can be a sign of an underlying health issue such as insulin resistance, obesity, hormonal disorders, or certain medications. Proper diagnosis and management of the underlying conditions are crucial. Treatment may involve addressing the underlying causes, lifestyle changes, and topical medications to improve the appearance of the skin. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a health care professional are essential for optimal management and to prevent complications.

A neglected zoonosis, Cystic Echinococcosis (CE), is most common in developing nations worldwide. Vaccination is, therefore, helpful in preventing the disease.

Predicting the main biochemical properties of E. granulosus Adenylate Kinase 1 (ADK1) and its possible B-cell and T-cell-binding epitopes as a valuable candidate for immunization was the goal of the current study.

Predictions were made to determine biochemical, antigenic, structural, and subcellular characteristics, along with the immunogenic epitopes, using several online servers.

The extracellular 22 KDa protein had no allergenicity, while it possessed hydrophilicity (GRAVY: -0.286), stability (instability: 17.48), tolerance to a wide range of temperatures (aliphatic: 93.45), and 17 post-translational modification sites. The secondary structure mostly comprised helices and random coils and the 3D model was generated using Robetta server (confidence: 0.88). Common B-cell epitopes were discovered by three servers and screened for antigenic, allergenic, and solubility traits. Moreover, MHC-associated epitopes for mice and humans were predicted in E. granulosus ADK1 with subsequent screening.

This work offers a foundation for further investigation on designing an effective vaccination against CE. Further empirical research study with the examined protein solely or combined with other antigens is needed.