Research

Jump to: Review

19 pages, 938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Initial Weight Loss, Anthropometric Parameters, and Proinflammatory Transcript Levels in Patients with Class I Obesity

by Beata Jabłonowska-Lietz, Grażyna Nowicka, Marta Włodarczyk, Sławomir Rejowski, Maria Stasiowska and Małgorzata Wrzosek

Biomedicines 2023, 11(8), 2304; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11082304 - 18 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1062

Abstract

Research into early predictors of effective weight loss could help determine more effective therapeutic interventions. In this study, 106 subjects with class I obesity, genotyped with the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) rs9930506 gene variant, were enrolled into a 12-week weight [...] Read more.

Research into early predictors of effective weight loss could help determine more effective therapeutic interventions. In this study, 106 subjects with class I obesity, genotyped with the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) rs9930506 gene variant, were enrolled into a 12-week weight loss program (WLP). Anthropometric and body composition measurements were controlled with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) at baseline and after 4 and 12 weeks. Biopsies of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) and venous blood samples were collected to monitor changes in interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) mRNA levels in white blood cells (WBCs) and to assess if changes in WBC gene expression reflected changes in adipose tissue. The FTO rs9930506 variant had no effect on weight loss and no reduction in proinflammatory transcripts in WBCs or AT. Changes in anthropometric parameters were associated with changes in carbohydrate metabolism. A linear regression model showed that initial weight loss (after 4 weeks of the WLP) was the most predictive factor of weight loss success after 12 weeks of the WLP. Changes in plasma lipids or proinflammatory transcript levels in WBCs or AT were not associated with weight loss effectiveness. However, the gene expression in WBCs did reflect changes occurring in subcutaneous AT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 5964 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Properties of Nanoparticles as New Agents Used in Teat Sealants for Mastitis Prevention in Dry Cows

by Daniel Radzikowski, Aleksandra Kalińska, Magdalena Kot, Sławomir Jaworski, Mateusz Wierzbicki and Marcin Gołębiewski

Biomedicines 2023, 11(8), 2291; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11082291 - 17 Aug 2023

Viewed by 919

Abstract

Mastitis prevention and treatment in dry cows are complex issues with limited solutions. The most common is intramammary antibiotic treatment. However, the effectiveness of this treatment varies among countries and even within herds in the same region. Therefore, it is necessary to develop [...] Read more.

Mastitis prevention and treatment in dry cows are complex issues with limited solutions. The most common is intramammary antibiotic treatment. However, the effectiveness of this treatment varies among countries and even within herds in the same region. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new strategies for dry cow therapy. Metal nanoparticles (NPs), which have strong biocidal properties for treating diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and algae, are increasingly used to reduce antibiotic use. In this study, AuNPs, CuNPs, AgNPs, PtNPs, NP-FeCs, and their triple complexes were used at different concentrations to evaluate their practical use in treating cows during their dry period. The nanoparticles were in hydrocolloid form and were added separately to form a mixture with beeswax, a mixture with oil, or a mixture based on vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol. The NPs’ concentrations were 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 ppm. Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and fungi isolated from cows diagnosed with mastitis were used to determine pathogen viability. The results indicated that AuNPs, CuNPs, AgNPs, and their complexes show biocidal properties against mastitis pathogens. AgNPs at 5 ppm had the strongest biocidal properties and reduced Streptococcus agalactiae’s survival rate by 50%; however, the nanoparticle complexes showed poor synergism. The strongest biocidal properties of NPs in wax and in glycerin mixed with glycol were shown against Escherichia coli. Additionally, low nanoparticle concentrations showed no cytotoxicity for BME-UV1 bovine cells, suggesting that these mixtures might be used for further in vivo testing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk of Cesarean Delivery after Vaginal Inserts with Prostaglandin Analogs and Single-Balloon Catheter Used for Cervical Ripening and Induction of Labor

by Maciej W. Socha, Wojciech Flis, Miłosz Pietrus and Mateusz Wartęga

Biomedicines 2023, 11(8), 2125; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11082125 - 27 Jul 2023

Viewed by 939

Abstract

(1) Background: Induction of labor is currently the most frequently performed procedure in modern obstetrics, referring to more than one in five women, and it is postulated that the percentage of labor induction will increase. (2) Methods: In total, 2935 patients in uncomplicated [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Induction of labor is currently the most frequently performed procedure in modern obstetrics, referring to more than one in five women, and it is postulated that the percentage of labor induction will increase. (2) Methods: In total, 2935 patients in uncomplicated full-term pregnancy fulfilled the study inclusion criteria and underwent induction of labor. Pregnant women were divided into three groups: IOL with Dinoprostone, Misoprostol vaginal suppositories, and Foley catheter. Outcomes, including cesarean section rates, time to delivery, and cesarean section indications, were analyzed. (3) Results: There was statistically significantly more cesarean sections within 24 h in the Misoprostol group in comparison with the Dinoprostone and Foley catheter groups (p < 0.0001). The percentage of patients who had a cesarean section due to clinically diagnosed threatened fetal asphyxia was 63% in the Dinoprostone group, 81.3% in the Misoprostol group, and 55.3% in the Foley catheter group. There were statistically significantly more cesarean deliveries due to nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns within 24 h in the Misoprostol group in comparison with the Dinoprostone and Foley catheter groups (p = 0.0031 and p = 0.0363). (4) Conclusions: Misoprostol may cause a more turbulent and violent course of labor, with a higher rate of increased incidence of nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns and cesarean deliveries. The use of a Dinoprostone vaginal insert or Foley catheter may provide longer labor, although still within 48 h, with a lower risk of cesarean section caused by nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 7850 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inflammatory Forms of Cardiomyocyte Cell Death in the Rat Model of Isoprenaline-Induced Takotsubo Syndrome

by Sonia Borodzicz-Jażdżyk, Agnieszka Kołodzińska, Katarzyna Czarzasta, Małgorzata Wojciechowska, Renata Główczyńska, Benedykt Szczepankiewicz, Liana Puchalska, Grzegorz Opolski and Agnieszka Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska

Biomedicines 2023, 11(7), 2060; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11072060 - 21 Jul 2023

Viewed by 913

Abstract

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is associated with inflammatory response, therefore the aim of the study was to evaluate the presence and dynamics of inflammatory-associated forms of cell death, necroptosis, and pyroptosis in the female rat model of isoprenaline (ISO)-induced TTS. TTS was induced in [...] Read more.

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is associated with inflammatory response, therefore the aim of the study was to evaluate the presence and dynamics of inflammatory-associated forms of cell death, necroptosis, and pyroptosis in the female rat model of isoprenaline (ISO)-induced TTS. TTS was induced in female Sprague Dawley rats (n = 36) by ISO 150 mg/kg intraperitoneally. Animals were divided into four groups: TTSO (TTS+ovariectomy; n = 10), TTSP (TTS+sham operation; n = 10), CO (0.9% NaCl+ovariectomy; n = 8), CP (0.9% NaCl+sham operation; n = 8). Histopathological analysis, evaluation of plasma concentration, and myocardial expression of pyroptosis- and necroptosis-associated proteins were performed. TTSO and TTSP groups had higher plasma concentrations of interleukin-1β in comparison with the controls. Low myocardial protein expression of mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL), caspase-1 (Casp-1), and calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase type II isoform delta (CAMKIIδ) was visible 6 and/or 12 h post-ISO. Twenty-four hours post-ISO, high myocardial and vascular protein expression of CAMKIIδ was visible in TTSO but not TTSP rats, while high myocardial expression of MLKL and Casp-1 was visible both in TTSO and TTSP rats. The course of TTS is associated with activation of inflammatory-associated programmed cell death, necroptosis, and pyroptosis, therefore inflammation may be a primary response occurring simultaneously with cardiomyocyte death in TTS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of the rs3039851 Insertion/Deletion in the Gene PPP3R1, Which Encodes the Regulatory Calcineurin Subunit B Type 1, with Left Ventricular Mass in Polish Full-Term Newborns

by Iwona Gorący, Beata Łoniewska, Klaudyna Lewandowska, Agnieszka Boroń, Małgorzata Grzegorczyk, Robert Nowak, Jeremy Simon C. Clark and Andrzej Ciechanowicz

Biomedicines 2023, 11(5), 1415; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11051415 - 10 May 2023

Viewed by 920

Abstract

Background: The five base-pair (bp) insertion/deletion (rs3039851) polymorphism in the PPP3R1 gene, which encodes calcineurin subunit B type 1, has been found to be associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in hypertensive patients and in athletes. The aim of this study is to [...] Read more.

Background: The five base-pair (bp) insertion/deletion (rs3039851) polymorphism in the PPP3R1 gene, which encodes calcineurin subunit B type 1, has been found to be associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in hypertensive patients and in athletes. The aim of this study is to analyze the possible association between PPP3R1:rs3039851 polymorphism and left ventricular mass (LVM) in full-term healthy newborns. Methods: The study group consisted of 162 consecutive, full-term, healthy newborns. Two-dimensional M-mode echocardiography was used to assess LVM. The PPP3R1:rs3039851 polymorphism was identified by PCR-RFLP in genomic DNA extracted from cord blood leukocytes. Results: No significant differences were found between newborns homozygous for the reference allele (5I/5I, n = 135) and newborns carrying at least one 5D allele (n = 27) for LVM standardized for body mass, body length or body surface area (LVM/BM, LVM/BL or LVM/BSA, respectively). However, the frequency of PPP3R1:rs3039851 genotypes with a 5D allele (5I/5D + 5D/5D) among newborns with the largest LVM/BM or LVM/BSA (upper tertile) was statistically significantly higher compared with the prevalence in individuals with the lowest values of both indices (lower tertile). Conclusions: Our results suggest that the PPP3R1:rs3039851 polymorphism may contribute to subtle variation in left ventricular mass at birth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2329 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What to Do if the qPCR Test for SARS-CoV-2 or Other Pathogen Lacks Endogenous Internal Control? A Simple Test on Housekeeping Genes

by Aleksandra Kuzan, Ivo Tabakov, Lukasz Madej, Anna Mucha and Lukasz Fulawka

Biomedicines 2023, 11(5), 1337; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11051337 - 01 May 2023

Viewed by 1966

Abstract

Some of the products for the molecular diagnosis of infections do not have an endogenous internal control, and this is necessary to ensure that the result is not a false negative. The aim of the project was to design a simple low-cost RT-qPCR [...] Read more.

Some of the products for the molecular diagnosis of infections do not have an endogenous internal control, and this is necessary to ensure that the result is not a false negative. The aim of the project was to design a simple low-cost RT-qPCR test that can confirm the expression of basic metabolism proteins, thus confirming the quality of genetic material for molecular diagnostic tests. Two successful equivalent qPCR assays for the detection of the GADPH and ACTB genes were obtained. The course of standard curves is logarithmic, with a very high correlation coefficient R2 within the range of 0.9955–0.9956. The reaction yield was between 85.5 and 109.7%, and the detection limit (LOD) with 95% positive probability was estimated at 0.0057 ng/µL for GAPDH and 0.0036 ng/µL for ACTB. These tests are universal because they function on various types of samples (swabs, cytology, etc.) and can complement the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens, as well as potentially oncological diagnostics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 628 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Interleukin-1 Genotype on the Clinical Efficacy of Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment of Polish Patients with Periodontitis

by Aniela Brodzikowska, Bartłomiej Górski and Agnieszka Bogusławska-Kapała

Biomedicines 2023, 11(2), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11020456 - 04 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1026

Abstract

(1) Background: Periodontitis is a chronic multifactorial inflammatory disease associated with dysbiotic plaque biofilms and characterized by progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting apparatus. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of basic periodontal treatment depending on the interleukin-1 genotype in [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Periodontitis is a chronic multifactorial inflammatory disease associated with dysbiotic plaque biofilms and characterized by progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting apparatus. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of basic periodontal treatment depending on the interleukin-1 genotype in adult Poles. (2) Methods: Sixty subjects aged 39–64 years were examined. At initial presentation (T1), at 6–8 weeks (T2), and 16–18 weeks (T3) after treatment completion, the following percentages were recorded: surfaces with plaque, pockets bleeding, pocket depth, and change in the attachment level. During the T1 examination, the genotype for IL-1 was determined using the GenoType^® PST test. (3) Results: Thirty subjects had genotype IL+ and the other thirty were IL−. During the T1 examination no significant differences were observed between patients. The study showed an increase of all the tested clinical parameters after 6–8 weeks. This increase continued up to the T3 examination. A significant reduction in the percentage of plaque surfaces after 6–8 weeks was observed, which was sustained after 16–18 weeks for both genotypes. For both genotypes, a significant decrease in the percentage of bleeding pockets was observed at the T2 examination, which persisted through until examination T3. For both studied genotypes, after 6–8 weeks, a significant shallowing of pockets was observed. In patients with the IL− genotype, a further significant shallowing of pockets was observed after 16–18 weeks. A significant reconstruction of epithelial attachment was observed between the T1 and T2 examinations, averaging 0.55 mm in patients with the IL+ genotype, and 0.77 in patients with the IL− genotype. (4) Conclusions: The results of our study show that the IL-1 genotype, may be one of the factors affecting the healing process after non-surgical periodontal treatment in adult Poles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1856 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T Gene Variant in Relation to Body Mass Index and Folate Concentration in a Polish Population

by Małgorzata Wrzosek and Klaudia Ślusarczyk

Biomedicines 2022, 10(12), 3140; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10123140 - 06 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1449

Abstract

Background: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an enzyme responsible for producing an active form of folate. The MTHFR T677T genotype may have adverse health effects associated with weight gain and a reduction in folate availability. Aim: In this study, we examined the influence of [...] Read more.

Background: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an enzyme responsible for producing an active form of folate. The MTHFR T677T genotype may have adverse health effects associated with weight gain and a reduction in folate availability. Aim: In this study, we examined the influence of the MTHFR C677T variant on BMI and determined its role as a risk factor for obesity. We also assessed the relationships between the MTHFR C677T genotype and folate and vitamin B₁₂ concentrations in subjects before and after radical weight loss. Methods: The study group consisted of 1712 Caucasian adults of Polish nationality with a wide range of body mass indexes (BMIs). DNA was extracted from the blood, and the C677T variant was tested with RFLP-PCR and real-time-PCR. Results: There was no significant influence found for the MTHFR 677 TT genotype on BMI or the obesity risk in codominant, dominant or recessive inheritance models. Individuals with obesity and the TT genotype had significantly lower folate concentrations. After radical weight reduction, the impact of the risk genotype, as well as homeostasis between folate and vitamin B₁₂ in TT homozygotes, seems to be attenuated. Conclusion: Although the MTHFR 677TT genotype is not directly related to a higher BMI in Polish adults, it has a detrimental effect on folate concentrations in individuals with high BMI values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Genetic Variants in the Glucocorticoid Receptor Gene NR3C1 and Stenosis of the Carotid Artery in a Polish Population with Coronary Artery Disease

by Jarosław Gorący, Anna Gorący, Aldona Wójcik-Grzeszczuk, Iwona Gorący and Jakub Rosik

Biomedicines 2022, 10(8), 1912; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10081912 - 07 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1572

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Early diagnosis and elimination of risk factors are crucial for better managing CVDs. Atherosclerosis, whose development might be associated with glucocorticoids (GCs), is a critical factor in the development of carotid artery [...] Read more.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Early diagnosis and elimination of risk factors are crucial for better managing CVDs. Atherosclerosis, whose development might be associated with glucocorticoids (GCs), is a critical factor in the development of carotid artery (CA) stenosis and most other CVDs. Aim: To investigate the association of Tth111I, N363S, and ER22/23EK-NR3C1 polymorphisms and the incidence of CA stenosis. Methods: The study group consisted of 117 patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD) and CA stenosis and 88 patients with CAD and ruled out CA stenosis. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood, and genotyping was carried out using Tth111I, N363S, and ER22/23EK-NR3C1 polymorphism sequencing. Results: No significant association between studied polymorphisms and the incidence or the severity of CA stenosis in the Polish population with CAD was found. Conclusion: This is the first study that proves that common NR3C1 gene variants do not influence CA stenosis and probably are not associated with atherosclerosis. The search for genes that can act as prognostic markers in predicting CA stenosis is still ongoing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

Review

Jump to: Research

11 pages, 264 KiB

Open AccessReview

Diagnosis and Management of Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II (Hunter Syndrome) in Poland

by Zbigniew Żuber, Beata Kieć-Wilk, Łukasz Kałużny, Jolanta Wierzba and Anna Tylki-Szymańska

Biomedicines 2023, 11(6), 1668; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11061668 - 08 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1789

Abstract

Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II; also known as Hunter syndrome) is a rare, inherited lysosomal storage disease. The disease is caused by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulphatase (I2S) due to mutations in the IDS gene, which leads to accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). [...] Read more.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II; also known as Hunter syndrome) is a rare, inherited lysosomal storage disease. The disease is caused by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulphatase (I2S) due to mutations in the IDS gene, which leads to accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Deficiency of I2S enzyme activity in patients with MPS II leads to progressive lysosomal storage of GAGs in the liver, spleen, heart, bones, joints, and respiratory tract. This process disturbs cellular functioning and leads to multisystemic disease manifestations. Symptoms and their time of onset differ among patients. Diagnosis of MPS II involves assessment of clinical features, biochemical parameters, and molecular characteristics. Life-long enzyme replacement therapy with idursulfase (recombinant human I2S) is the current standard of care. However, an interdisciplinary team of specialists is required to monitor and assess the patient’s condition to ensure optimal care. An increasing number of patients with this rare disease reach adulthood and old age. The transition from pediatric care to the adult healthcare system should be planned and carried out according to guidelines to ensure maximum benefit for the patient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

26 pages, 922 KiB

Open AccessReview

Colostrum and Lactoferrin Protect against Side Effects of Therapy with Antibiotics, Anti-inflammatory Drugs and Steroids, and Psychophysical Stress: A Comprehensive Review

by Jolanta Artym and Michał Zimecki

Biomedicines 2023, 11(4), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11041015 - 27 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4878

Abstract

In this article, we review the benefits of applying bovine colostrum (BC) and lactoferrin (LF) in animal models and clinical trials that include corticosteroid application and psychic stress, treatment with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics. A majority of the reported investigations were [...] Read more.

In this article, we review the benefits of applying bovine colostrum (BC) and lactoferrin (LF) in animal models and clinical trials that include corticosteroid application and psychic stress, treatment with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics. A majority of the reported investigations were performed with native bovine or recombinant human LF, applied alone or in combination with probiotics, as nutraceutics and diet supplements. Apart from reducing adverse side effects of the applied therapeutics, BC and LF augmented their efficacy and improved the wellness of patients. In conclusion, LF and complete native colostrum, preferably administered with probiotic bacteria, are highly recommended for inclusion in therapeutic protocols in NSAIDs and corticosteroid anti-inflammatory, as well as antibiotic, therapies. These colostrum-based products can also be of value for individuals subjected to prolonged psychophysical stress (mediated by endogenous corticosteroids), especially at high ambient temperatures (soldiers and emergency services), as well as physically active people and training athletes. They are also recommended for patients during recovery from trauma and surgery, which are always associated with severe psychophysical stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 660 KiB

Open AccessReview

Molecular Diagnostic Tools against SARS-CoV-2 in Poland in 2022

by Lukasz Fulawka and Aleksandra Kuzan

Biomedicines 2022, 10(12), 3259; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10123259 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1570

Abstract

The most effective way to stop the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and isolate those infected as soon as possible. More than 1000 types of molecular and antigen-based immunoassay tests to detect [...] Read more.

The most effective way to stop the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and isolate those infected as soon as possible. More than 1000 types of molecular and antigen-based immunoassay tests to detect SARS-CoV-2 are now commercially available worldwide. In this review, we present the possibilities of molecular diagnostics available in Poland in 2022. We provide a description of what samples have proven useful to confirm SARS-CoV-2 infection, we describe what methods are used, as well as what safeguards can and should be used to prevent false-negative and false-positive results, and finally we review the products that diagnostic laboratories have to choose from. We also describe diagnostic problems associated with the mutation of the virus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1634 KiB

Open AccessReview

Medium Extracellular Vesicles—A Qualitative and Quantitative Biomarker of Prostate Cancer

by Milena Świtońska, Oliwia A. Jarosz, Dagmara Szołna-Klufczyńska and Katarzyna Sierakowska

Biomedicines 2022, 10(11), 2856; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10112856 - 08 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1515

Abstract

For years, the diagnosis of prostate cancer has been understated. Despite the relatively low mortality rate, prostate cancer is still one of the most common neoplasms in men, which proves the need for continuous improvements in the diagnostics of this disease. New biomarkers [...] Read more.

For years, the diagnosis of prostate cancer has been understated. Despite the relatively low mortality rate, prostate cancer is still one of the most common neoplasms in men, which proves the need for continuous improvements in the diagnostics of this disease. New biomarkers may address these challenges in the form of extracellular vesicles (EV) secreted by prostate cancer cells. The available literature in the PubMed, SCOPUS, and ResearchGate databases from the last ten years was analyzed using search phrases such as extracellular vesicles, microparticles, microvesicles, cancer biomarkers, and prostate cancer. Then, the research was selected in terms of the size of the tested EVs (the EV medium of 100–1000 nm diameter, was taken into account), the latest versions of the literature were selected and compiled, and their results were compared. The group of extracellular vesicles contain a substantial amount of genetic information that can be used in research on the specificity of prostate cancer and other cancers. So far, it has been shown that EVs produced by PCa cells express proteins specific for these cells, which, thanks to their specificity, can make EV useful biomarkers of prostate cancer. Moreover, the importance of the quantitative release of EV from PCa cells has been demonstrated, which may be necessary to diagnose prostate cancer malignancy. Each method positively correlates with Gleason’s results and is even characterized by greater diagnostic sensitivity. Medium extracellular vesicles are a promising research material, and their specificity and sensitivity may allow them to be used in future prostate cancer diagnostics as biomarkers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2450 KiB

Open AccessReview

Gut Bless Your Pain—Roles of the Gut Microbiota, Sleep, and Melatonin in Chronic Orofacial Pain and Depression

by Łukasz Lassmann, Matteo Pollis, Agata Żółtowska and Daniele Manfredini

Biomedicines 2022, 10(7), 1528; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10071528 - 28 Jun 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6300

Abstract

Background. Increased attention has been paid to the gut–brain axis recently, but little is known so far regarding how this translates into pain susceptibility. Aim. The aim of this review is to determine whether gastroenterological disorders and sleep disorders (directly or indirectly) contribute [...] Read more.

Background. Increased attention has been paid to the gut–brain axis recently, but little is known so far regarding how this translates into pain susceptibility. Aim. The aim of this review is to determine whether gastroenterological disorders and sleep disorders (directly or indirectly) contribute to an increased susceptibility to depression and chronic orofacial pain. Method. A search was performed in the U.S. National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database in order to find studies published before 19 December 2021. We used the following terms: gut microbiome, OR sleep quality, OR melatonin, OR GERD, OR IBS, AND: depression OR chronic pain, in different configurations. Only papers in English were selected. Given the large number of papers retrieved in the search, their findings were described and organized narratively. Results. A link exists between sleep disorders and gastroenterological disorders, which, by adversely affecting the psyche and increasing inflammation, disturb the metabolism of tryptophan and cause excessive microglial activation, leading to increased susceptibility to pain sensation and depression. Conclusions. Pain therapists should pay close attention to sleep and gastrointestinal disorders in patients with chronic pain and depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

State-of-the-Art Molecular and Translational Medicine in Poland

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (14 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI