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Topic Review
Biography
Topic Review
Cytonemes in Tumourigenesis
Increasing evidence during the past two decades shows that cells interconnect and communicate through cytonemes. These cytoskeleton-driven extensions of specialized membrane territories have emerged as a novel alternative for cell to cell communication that are involved in development, physiology, and disease. Several recent studies have shown that signalling pathways mediated by cytonemes during development, are essential for certain tumoral cell types progression. In Drosophila wing disc EGFR and RET tumour models, cytoneme formation is required to receive signals from the neighbouring cells. Genetic ablation of cytonemes prevents tumour progression, restores apico-basal polarity, and improves survival. Furthermore, cytonemes in the Drosophila glial cells are essential for glioblastoma progression as they alter Wg/Fz1 signalling between glia and neurons. Research on cytoneme formation, maintenance, and cell signalling mechanisms will help to better understand not only physiological developmental processes and tissue homeostasis but also cancer progression.
1.2K
30 Oct 2020
Topic Review
The Biological Effects of Retinoids in the Skin
In the early 20th century, retinol (commonly known as vitamin A) was isolated and characterized as an essential nutrient for human health. Retinoids are natural and synthetic vitamin A derivatives that are effective for the prevention and the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers. The effects of retinoid signaling on skin physiology have been studied extensively.
1.2K
01 Nov 2022
Topic Review
Lipolysis and Lipolytic Enzymes
In adipose triglyceride (AT), but also in other organs, three major enzymes are involved in lipolysis—adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), and monoacylglyceride lipase (MGL). TGs, specifically triolein, are very often used as a substrate to measure HSL and ATGL activity despite the fact that HSL hydrolase activity is up to 10-fold higher for diglycerides (DGs) compared to TGs. The activity of lipolysis is finely regulated by multiple signals, with catecholamines, insulin, growth hormone, and natriuretic peptides being the main hormonal regulators.
1.2K
18 Oct 2022
Topic Review
Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Mitochondrial dysfunction results in a series of defective cellular events, including decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) output, and altered proteastasis and cellular quality control. An enhanced output of ROS may damage mitochondrial components, such as mitochondrial DNA and elements of the electron transport chain, resulting in the loss of proper electrochemical gradient across the mitochondrial inner membrane and an ensuing shutdown of mitochondrial energy production. Neurons have an increased demand for ATP and oxygen, and thus are more prone to damage induced by mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial dysfunction, damaged electron transport chains, altered membrane permeability and Ca2+ homeostasis, and impaired mitochondrial defense systems induced by oxidative stress, are pathological changes involved in neurodegenerative disorders. A growing body of evidence suggests that the use of antioxidants could stabilize mitochondria and thus may be suitable for preventing neuronal loss. Numerous natural products exhibit the potential to counter oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction; however, science is still looking for a breakthrough in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. β-caryophyllene is a bicyclic sesquiterpene, and an active principle of essential oils derived from a large number of spices and food plants. As a selective cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist, several studies have reported it as possessing numerous pharmacological activities such as antibacterial (e.g., Helicobacter pylori), antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic (e.g., neuropathic pain), anti-neurodegenerative and anticancer properties. The present review mainly focuses on the potential of β-caryophyllene in reducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, and its possible links with neuroprotection.
1.2K
29 Apr 2021
Topic Review
Proteomics Landscape of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia; however, the precise pathophysiology of the disease has not been elucidated yet. Thus, understanding the disease pathology, as well as identification and development of valid biomarkers, are necessary for identifying therapeutic targets and early diagnosis as well as for monitoring disease progression. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics studies on clinical specimens, in-vitro and in-vivo models of AD has greatly aided such efforts.
1.2K
11 Oct 2021
Topic Review
Astaxanthin as Potential Neurotherapeutic Agent
ASX, a member of the xanthophyll group, was found to be a promising therapeutic anti-inflammatory agent for many neurological disorders, including cerebral ischemia, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and neuropathic pain.
1.2K
15 Apr 2021
Topic Review
Music and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a severe psychiatric disorder, which can be associated with music-related symptoms. Music may also be used as an adjunct treatment for OCD. Patients with OCD might benefit from music therapy, which includes listening to music.
1.2K
22 Nov 2021
Topic Review
Cutaneous Melanoma
Cutaneous Melanoma (CM), arising from pigment-producing melanocytes in the skin, is an aggressive cancer with high metastatic potential. While cutaneous melanoma represents only a fraction of all skin cancers (<5%), it accounts for most skin-cancer-related deaths worldwide. Immune checkpoint inhibition has been the first therapeutic approach to significantly benefit patient survival after treatment. Nevertheless, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and the intrinsic and acquired treatment resistance of melanoma remain crucial challenges. Combining local and systemic treatment offers the potential to augment therapeutic response and overcome resistance, although, complex drug combinations can harbor an increased risk of immune-related adverse events.
1.2K
22 Sep 2021
Topic Review
CT Effective Dose Conversion Factors
To determine the conversion factors for effective dose (ED) per dose length product (DLP) for various computed tomography (CT) protocols based on the 2007 recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). CT dose data from 369 CT scanners and 13,625 patients were collected through a nationwide survey. Data from 3,793 patients with a difference in height within 5% of computational human phantoms were selected to calculate ED and DLP. The anatomical CT scan ranges for 11 scan protocols (adult-10, pediatric-1) were determined by experts, and scan lengths were obtained by matching scan ranges to computational phantoms. ED and DLP were calculated using NCICT program. For each CT protocol, ED/DLP conversion factors were calculated from ED and DLP. Estimated ED conversion factors were 0.00172, 0.00751, 0.00858, 0.01843, 0.01103, 0.02532, 0.01794, 0.02811, 0.02815, 0.02175, 0.00626, 0.00458, 0.00308 and 0.00233 mSv∙mGy-1∙cm-1 for the adult brain, intra-cranial angiography, C-spine, L-spine, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis, coronary angiography, calcium scoring, aortography, and CT examinations of pediatric brain of <2 years, 4-6 years, 9-11 years, and 13-15 years, respectively. We determined ED conversion factors for 11 CT protocols using CT data obtained from a nationwide survey in Korea and Monte Carlo-based dose calculations.
1.2K
04 Apr 2021
Topic Review
Exosomal-based Drug Delivery
Exosomes are membrane-bound nanovesicles that are typically 30–150 nm in size with various bioactive molecules. They are typically generated by first endocytosing various transmembrane proteins into endosomes within the cell, which are then sorted and form intraluminal vesicles. These vesicles are then released as the endosome merges with the cell membrane and releases its contents outside of the cell. Tetraspanins (CD9, CD63, CD81) are one of the most common proteins expressed on the surface of exosomes and are often used as exosome-specific markers. These proteins have been shown to interact with different proteins such as integrins and major histocompatibility complexes (MHC). Exosomes commonly act as carriers of genetic and proteomic information, and are therefore vital in intercellular communication. In its role as a cellular messenger, exosomes have been implicated in promoting cancer; because of this, they are also being investigated as potential therapeutic targets and delivery vehicles.
1.2K
06 Jun 2021
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