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The article discusses the use of glucocorticoids as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs in various immune-mediated diseases, highlighting their controversial use in sepsis and shock due to a lack of information on the responding cell types and regulated genes. The study utilized blood transcriptomic datasets to identify two robust gene expression correlation signatures of glucocorticoid induction, with one originating from circadian cortisol and the other from glucocorticoids in severe inflammation. These findings provide insights into the gene regulation by glucocorticoids in circulating monocytes and neutrophils in both health and systemic inflammation. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University in China analyzed 89 cases of drug eruptions in inpatients from April 2019 to December 2023. The research found that exanthematous eruptions were the most common type of drug eruptions, with antibiotics, traditional Chinese medicine, and antiepileptics being the top allergenic drugs. Patients with severe drug eruptions often experienced high fever, but hospitalization time did not differ significantly between severe and mild cases. The study suggested that early administration of glucocorticoids, alone or in combination with other therapies, could shorten hospitalization time for severe drug eruptions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of Minnesota Medical School found that anastrozole therapy can improve height outcomes in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-OHD. The research showed that anastrozole decreased the rate of bone maturation and led to improved height outcomes in patients. This suggests that anastrozole could be a beneficial adjunct therapy for children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia and advanced bone age. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Institute of Biomedical Research in Barcelona, Spain, highlights the importance of formulation in treating psoriasis, specifically focusing on the combination of calcipotriol and betamethasone. The study emphasizes the efficacy and safety of the fixed-dose combination, particularly in the form of foam, compared to other formulations. While more real-world clinical experience is needed to validate the data, the research suggests that calcipotriol/betamethasone foam may be a preferred treatment for managing psoriasis flares and maintenance. The study was supported by LEO Pharma and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A study from Muhammadiyah University in Surabaya, Indonesia, explores the delayed healing of traumatic ulcers in teledentistry patients. The research highlights how psychological stress, exacerbated by toothpick injuries, can impact wound healing. The study emphasizes the importance of thorough patient assessments, appropriate therapy, and oral health education to promote effective ulcer healing in such cases. The findings underscore the physiological link between stress, glucocorticoids, and wound healing, providing valuable insights for dental healthcare providers. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute have conducted studies on withdrawal syndrome, focusing on glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency and glucocorticoid withdrawal. The research highlights the adverse effects of chronic glucocorticoid therapy, such as adrenal suppression, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency in patients. The study suggests that more data on the associated health risks is needed to guide patient care when tapering long-term glucocorticoid therapy. [Extracted from the article]

Research conducted at Akershus University Hospital focused on the utilization and safety of digoxin in patients with chronic heart failure and atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular rate. The study, based on data from the Norwegian HF registry, found that digoxin was associated with a decrease in heart rate and an improvement in NYHA functional class. While digoxin was not linked to increased mortality, its usage was infrequent in these patients. The findings suggest that digoxin may be a safe option for managing heart failure and atrial fibrillation. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Tufts Medical Center conducted a case study on a 75-year-old male with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who experienced hyperglycemia due to the use of megestrol acetate (MA) and dulaglutide, resulting in poor outcomes. The patient's blood glucose worsened after starting MA, which has glucocorticoid properties, and his weight loss began after using dulaglutide. The study emphasizes the importance of medication reconciliation, screening for drug interactions, and involving clinical pharmacists in chronic disease management for patients with ESRD. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Union Hospital conducted a study on the inhibitory effect of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) on glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in lupus therapy. The study aimed to understand the mechanisms behind the combined treatment of HCQ and glucocorticoids (GCs) in lupus. Results showed that HCQ enhanced the anti-inflammatory effects of GCs and inhibited osteoclastogenesis in experimental lupus, providing valuable insights into lupus treatment mechanisms. The study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and published in Clinical & Translational Immunology. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Stanford University conducted a study on the efficacy and tolerability of subcutaneous repository corticotropin injection (RCI) in patients with active scleritis or uveitis. The study included 17 patients with various ocular inflammatory conditions, with RCI showing promising results in controlling inflammation. The research concluded that RCI may be a potential therapy option for patients with non-infectious scleritis or uveitis, with acceptable tolerability. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have conducted a study on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of glucocorticoids, focusing on the dynamics of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and the dose/response of commonly prescribed glucocorticoids. The study highlights the behavior of the GR in response to glucocorticoid binding and its impact on transcriptional activity. The research aims to provide a pharmacological rationale for the wide therapeutic dosage range of glucocorticoids commonly used in clinical practice. For more information, readers can access the full article in the journal ADMET and DMPK. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a study conducted at Free University Berlin on the use of sucrose particles as porogens in preparing porous poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) films containing dexamethasone for drug release. The research found that modifying the content and particle size of sucrose effectively altered PLGA degradation and drug release, with nanosized sucrose being the most effective porogen. The study suggests that the data obtained could potentially be applied to other PLGA drug delivery systems such as microparticles or implants. The research was financially supported by the China Scholarship Council and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Hospital for Special Surgery have conducted a study on the mechanisms of epigenomic and functional convergence between glucocorticoid- and IL4-driven macrophage programming. The research found that glucocorticoids and type-2 cytokine interleukin-4 promote a similar phenotype in macrophages, with overlapping transcriptomes and chromatin landscapes. This study sheds light on the homeostatic macrophage programming by distinct signals, which could potentially inform the design of anti-inflammatory drugs. The findings were published in Nature Communications and can be accessed for free online. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how noradrenaline levels after memory retrieval can impact subsequent memory recall, depending on the reactivation of specific brain regions. The study involved measuring brain activity during memory encoding, retrieval with different drug administrations, and final recall in healthy humans. The findings suggest that noradrenergic arousal post-retrieval can influence the accessibility of memories based on neural reactivation patterns. This research sheds light on the complex mechanisms underlying memory dynamics and the potential impact of pharmacological interventions on memory processes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Hospital Universitario Cruces examined the effects of low-dose glucocorticoid maintenance therapy on patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in prolonged remission. The study found that maintaining doses of prednisone below 5 mg per day did not increase the risk of damage accrual in SLE patients. This research provides valuable insights into the management of SLE and the use of glucocorticoid therapy in patients in remission. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences conducted a computational study on the interaction between Human Serum Albumin (HSA) and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Through molecular modeling, they identified potential complexes between HSA and ACE, highlighting the impact of specific mutations on their interaction. The study provides insights for further research on the mechanisms of HSA-ACE interaction, aiming to enhance pharmacotherapy targeting ACE's physiological activity. The findings were published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Institute for Maternal and Child Health in Trieste, Italy, have discovered that the long non-coding RNA GAS5 plays a role in suppressing inflammatory responses by inhibiting NF-kB activity. Their study found that GAS5 interacts with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and influences glucocorticoid (GC) activity, impacting NF-kB signaling pathways. This research suggests that GAS5 could be a potential target for personalized therapy, especially in pediatric patients with inflammatory conditions. Further investigation is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind GAS5's modulation of NF-kB activity. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Hasanuddin University in Makassar, Indonesia, have conducted a study on Graves' ophthalmopathy, an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid and eyes. The study emphasizes the importance of steroid treatment during the active phase of the disease, with intravenous administration showing superior outcomes compared to oral administration. Individualized treatment plans addressing contraindications and side effects are crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Tor Vergata in Rome, Italy, explores the altered metabolism of Trabecular Meshwork Cells (TMCs) in glaucoma. The study focuses on the turnover of myocilin, a glycoprotein associated with glaucoma pathogenesis, in TMCs cultivated in vitro with dexamethasone, a steroid used to induce glaucoma in experimental models. The researchers found that myocilin turnover was slower in the presence of dexamethasone, and they identified STUB1/CHIP as a potential E3-ligase of myocilin. The study also conducted proteomics analysis to profile the ubiquitylome of TMCs and identified dysregulation of key pathways in dexamethasone-treated TMCs. This research provides insights into the effect of glucocorticoids on metabolism and glaucoma pathogenesis. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic literature review conducted by researchers at IQVIA provides new insights into Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and its associated cardiac complications. The review included 33 publications and found moderate- to high-quality evidence that certain cardiac medications, such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, are significantly associated with preserved cardiac function in DMD patients. Additionally, specific DMD mutations and glucocorticoid treatments were found to be associated with improved cardiac outcomes. However, the certainty of evidence is generally low, and further research is needed to understand the impact of non-pharmacological interventions and different treatment criteria. This information can help inform future research and raise awareness of unmet needs in DMD treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Chongqing Medical University in China discusses drug hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS), a rare but potentially fatal adverse drug reaction characterized by fever, rash, and organ damage. The report focuses on a case of a 15-year-old male patient who developed DIHS after being prescribed phenytoin sodium for epilepsy. The patient experienced symptoms such as fever, sore throat, rash, jaundice, and liver dysfunction. The diagnosis was made based on the patient's clinical presentation, and glucocorticoid therapy with dexamethasone significantly improved the symptoms. The report emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of DIHS, especially in the context of antiepileptic drug use, and highlights the potential benefits of early initiation of glucocorticoid therapy. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Zhejiang University in China have discovered that b-Cyclocitral (b-cyc), a compound found in Lavandula angustifolia Mill., has a nerve growth factor (NGF)-mimic effect on PC12 cells. The compound was found to promote neuron differentiation in PC12 cells by targeting insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR), as well as modifying downstream signaling pathways. The study utilized specific protein inhibitors and Western blotting analysis to investigate the bioactivity and action mechanism of b-cyc. These findings provide insights into the potential therapeutic applications of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. in promoting neuron differentiation. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at South Ural State University in Chelyabinsk, Russia, has explored the potential of resveratrol, a natural polyphenol, in treating stress-induced anxiety. The study found that resveratrol improved anxiety behavior in rats by modulating glucocorticoid and monoamine metabolism in the brain and liver. The researchers suggest that resveratrol could be a promising therapeutic agent for anxiety disorders and recommend further clinical investigation. The study was supported by the Russian Scientific Foundation and the Chelyabinsk Region. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of Verona discusses research findings on rheumatoid arthritis. The study suggests that Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) may be more effective than biologic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in reducing the use of glucocorticoids, which can have adverse effects with long-term use. The study analyzed data from 716 rheumatoid arthritis patients and found that JAKi treatment was associated with a more rapid reduction in glucocorticoid dose and higher odds of discontinuation compared to bDMARDs. The researchers conclude that JAKi may be valuable in managing rheumatoid arthritis and minimizing glucocorticoid-related adverse effects. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, researchers have found that manipulating the expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone (Crh) in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH) does not affect anxiety-like behaviors in mice with primary adrenal insufficiency or those treated with dexamethasone (DEX). The study compared mice with different genotypes and treatments using behavioral tests and measured Crh expression and hormone levels. The findings suggest that low Crh expression is associated with reduced anxiety, but extreme deficiency may be required, and glucocorticoids may not modulate anxiety behaviors through Crh expression. However, this research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Federal University of Santa Maria in Brazil explored the potential of a dual approach to treating depression using intermittent hypoxia (IH) and fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The study found that the combination of IH and fluoxetine had a synergistic effect in reducing depressive-like behaviors and inflammatory responses in female mice. These findings suggest a promising therapeutic approach for depression and highlight the need for more effective treatments for mental disorders. The study was funded by the National Council of Technological And Scientific Development and the Rio Grande Do Sul State Foundation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center explores the neurobiological implications of chronic stress and metabolic dysregulation in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). The study highlights the role of cortisol, a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in the stress response and its impact on metabolism, immune response, and neurobiology. Elevated cortisol levels are associated with the development and exacerbation of metabolic disorders like IBD, as well as cognitive impairments and increased susceptibility to psychiatric conditions. The study aims to provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating these effects. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Complutense University Madrid in Spain has found that sewage sludge-based catalysts can be used for the catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) of prednisone, a glucocorticoid pharmaceutical pollutant found in aquatic environments. The researchers transformed dry sludge into carbonaceous catalysts through pyrolysis and post-treatment, and found that the catalysts exhibited high catalytic activity in the CWAO of prednisone. The study suggests that these catalysts could be a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment and the removal of pharmaceutical pollutants. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Process Safety and Environmental Protection. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Jilin University in Changchun, China, explored the potential therapeutic effects of sulforaphane, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables, on depression. The study focused on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) function using a chronic corticosterone-induced cell and mouse model. The findings indicated that sulforaphane exhibited neuroprotective and antidepressant effects by modulating GR expression and mitigating inflammation-induced apoptosis and impaired neuroplasticity. The study suggests that these effects may be mediated through the NF-KB and ERK/CREB/BDNF pathways. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen in Munich, Germany, explored the role of a gene called ABCB1 in cortisol-producing adrenal adenomas. The researchers found that a specific polymorphism in this gene, known as rs2032582, was associated with higher levels of cortisol metabolite secretion in patients with cortisol-producing adrenal adenomas. This polymorphism may serve as a modifier of disease severity in these patients. The study provides valuable insights into the genetic factors that contribute to the development and progression of adrenal adenomas. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the National University of Singapore has examined the use of adrenal cortical steroids, specifically dexamethasone, in the management of preterm birth in Singapore. Preterm birth is a significant issue in Singapore, with approximately 9% of babies being born prematurely. The study reviewed the pharmacokinetic profile and pharmacodynamic effects of dexamethasone treatment in Singapore, aiming to optimize this important antenatal therapy. The research provides valuable insights into the use of adrenal cortical steroids in Singapore and may contribute to the development of improved treatment regimens. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Calgary in Canada explored the role of angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1) autoantibodies in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA), a common cause of hypertension characterized by excessive aldosterone secretion. The researchers conducted a cross-sectional study of PA patients referred for adrenal vein sampling (AVS) and measured AT1 autoantibody titres. They found that AT1 autoantibodies were common in PA patients, but they were not predictive of PA subtype or associated with major clinical factors traditionally used to predict PA severity or prognosis. This research provides valuable insights into the immune mechanisms involved in PA. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City highlights six studies published in 2023 that provide valuable insights for internal medicine specialists and subspecialists outside of rheumatology. The studies cover various topics related to rheumatologic conditions, including the effects of low-dose glucocorticoids on rheumatoid arthritis, the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, the potential use of methotrexate in treating inflammatory hand osteoarthritis, the promise of sarilumab as an adjunct treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica relapse, the evaluation of sublingual cyclobenzaprine for fibromyalgia treatment, and the therapeutic equivalence of biosimilars and reference biologics in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The research concludes that this recent literature will be useful to clinicians caring for patients with these commonly encountered conditions, regardless of specialty. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Second Affiliated Hospital in Haikou, China, examined the efficacy of tacrolimus combined with glucocorticoid therapy in treating lupus nephritis (LN), a common and serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. The researchers analyzed 12 articles involving 1360 LN patients and found that tacrolimus plus glucocorticoid therapy significantly improved the partial remission rate, effective rate, creatinine level, and 24-hour urine protein level in comparison to the control group. Importantly, the combination therapy did not increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, liver dysfunction, or infection. The study concluded that tacrolimus plus glucocorticoid therapy can help improve renal function outcomes in LN patients. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Pavia in Italy have conducted a study on the use of metakaolin-based geopolymers for removing organic contaminants from polluted water through adsorption. The researchers tested the removal of two model molecules, ofloxacin and cortisone, and found that the substrates had a greater affinity for ofloxacin. Different adsorption mechanisms were observed for the two molecules, with the antibiotic exhibiting a monolayer mechanism and the steroid exhibiting a cooperative mechanism. The study concluded that satisfactory drug recoveries were achieved under realistic conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Michigan have developed an in vitro model to study the activity of the human mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). The MR plays a role in regulating electrolyte and fluid balance in the body. The researchers used lentivirus to create cell models expressing the MR and tested various compounds for their effects on MR activation. This model will aid in the discovery of new MR-modulating drugs and provide insights into MR-mediated pathophysiology mechanisms. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Queensland in Australia examined the effects of age on the pharmacokinetics of immunosuppressant drugs in kidney transplant recipients. The researchers analyzed the pharmacokinetic parameters of tacrolimus, mycophenolate, and prednisolone in older and younger adult cohorts. They found that older recipients had significantly greater concentrations and exposure to free mycophenolic acid (MPA) and mycophenolic acid glucuronide (MPAG). These differences may be attributed to factors such as altered kidney function, haematocrit, plasma protein binding, and drug absorption. Further research is needed to explore the specific contributions of these factors. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom has found that high salt intake can activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, leading to increased stress response and changes in tissue glucocorticoid exposure in mice. The study suggests that chronic high salt intake can amplify both basal and stress-induced glucocorticoid levels and alter glucocorticoid biology in various parts of the body. These findings have implications for cardiovascular health and may contribute to a better understanding of the effects of high salt intake on the body. The research was funded by the British Heart Foundation, Kidney Research UK, and the Chief Scientist Office - Scotland. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Malaysia Sarawak explored the potential of nanoparticulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as an antidepressant in a mouse model of depression. The study compared the effects of nanoparticulate BDNF, traditional antidepressant fluoxetine, and a control group. The results showed that both the BDNF and fluoxetine groups exhibited lower levels of corticosterone, improved performance in behavioral tests, and reduced hyperplasia of the adrenal gland compared to the control group. The study suggests that nanoparticulate BDNF has the potential to be an effective treatment for depression not associated with stress. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Toho University Ohashi Medical Center in Tokyo, Japan, examined the long-term effects of glucocorticoid therapy on bone health in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). The study included 28 MG patients and found that those who experienced major osteoporotic fractures had lower baseline bone mineral density (BMD) and higher FRAX(R) scores for fracture risk compared to the no-fracture group. The study highlights the importance of regular bone health assessments in MG patients, particularly those receiving long-term glucocorticoid therapy. The findings suggest that the FRAX(R) tool may be useful for stratifying fracture risk in this population and improving long-term management strategies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh has provided new insights into the field of Life Science. The study focused on the activation of epithelial Na+ channels (ENaCs) and the role of proteolysis of the alpha subunit in this process. The researchers found that disrupting alpha subunit proteolysis impaired ENaC activity in vivo, but compensation occurred in response to sodium restriction. The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and has been peer-reviewed. For more information, readers can refer to the article "Loss of the Alpha Subunit Distal Furin Cleavage Site Blunts Enac Activation Following Na+ Restriction" in The Journal of Physiology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the State University of New York (SUNY) Stony Brook has explored the use of a small molecule agonist of Kruppel-like Factor 15 (KLF15) in proteinuric kidney disease. The researchers found that the agonist, called BT503, demonstrated protective effects in human podocytes and proteinuric murine models. The study suggests that BT503 works by inhibiting the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit beta, which restores KLF15 and rescues podocyte loss, thereby ameliorating kidney injury. This research provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic approaches for glomerular diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from McGill University in Quebec, Canada, discusses a case of IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) presenting with isolated hypophysitis. IgG4-RD is an immune-mediated condition that can affect multiple organs, including the pituitary gland. The patient in this case presented with abdominal pain, low blood pressure, and low serum sodium, among other symptoms. Further investigations revealed a pituitary macroadenoma with hemorrhagic transformation, and the pathology confirmed IgG4-related hypophysitis. The main treatment for IgG4-RH is glucocorticoids and hormone replacement therapy. The report suggests that IgG4-RH may be underestimated and should be considered in cases of hypophysitis or unknown causes of hypopituitarism. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine in Wuxi, China have developed a biomimetic drug delivery system using cryo-shocked macrophages to treat acute lung injury (ALI). Macrophages play a crucial role in treating ALI, but traditional treatments like systemic administration of glucocorticoids have severe side effects. The researchers used positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to demonstrate the superior targeting abilities of live M1 macrophages in homing in on local inflammatory foci. By engineering liquid nitrogen-treated (LNT) M1 macrophages, they were able to deliver glucocorticoids directly to inflamed lung tissues, reducing inflammation and minimizing systemic drug exposure. This innovative approach shows promise as a safe and potent treatment for ALI. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine in Japan has found that pulse methylprednisolone therapy is an effective treatment for acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis (AIGA), a rare disorder primarily observed in Asian populations. The study aimed to identify factors that predict the efficacy of this therapy in patients with AIGA. The researchers found that earlier intervention, elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels, and inflammation around sweat glands were potential indicators of a successful response to pulse methylprednisolone therapy. This information can be valuable for individuals seeking treatment for AIGA. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Yodogawa Christian Hospital in Osaka, Japan, evaluated the effectiveness of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) in patients with difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study included 220 patients with RA who were treated with JAKi, divided into different groups based on their previous treatment history. The results showed that the clinical efficacy of JAKi in the difficult-to-treat RA group was similar to that in other groups. However, the use of glucocorticoids and multiple previous treatment failures were identified as poor prognostic factors for difficult-to-treat RA. This research provides valuable insights into the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Fortis Hospital in Punjab, India, has found that glucocorticoid (GC) therapy can effectively treat inflammatory and immunological disorders but can also have significant side effects. The study recommends using GCs at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time to minimize adverse effects. It also emphasizes the importance of tapering off GC therapy to allow for the recovery of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and to avoid disease flare-ups or symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. The study suggests that tapering should be slower in cases of long-term suppression and that patients on exogenous steroids should be educated about the need for increased doses during acute illness or surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine explores the potential of the Modified Danggui Buxue Decoction (DGBXD), a traditional Chinese herbal formulation, in treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP). The study utilizes network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches to investigate the mechanisms of DGBXD's action on GIOP. The results suggest that DGBXD may modulate multiple therapeutic targets and signaling pathways, making it a potential treatment option for GIOP. Further research is needed to validate these findings. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Dallas explores the role of glucocorticoids in stress-induced migraine-like behaviors. The study found that repeated stress in mice triggers migraine-like responses and priming to a nitric oxide donor. Metyrapone, mifepristone, and corticosterone were used to investigate the effects of glucocorticoids, and it was discovered that CORT synthesis and receptor activation are necessary for the behavioral responses triggered by stress, but only sufficient in females. This research provides valuable insights into the contribution of glucocorticoids to migraines and may lead to new therapeutic opportunities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the potential of inhibiting EZH2 as a complementary treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, and glucocorticoid derivatives are currently the main therapeutic option. However, the molecular mechanism of glucocorticoid action is not fully understood, and additional remedies are needed. The study used single-nucleus RNA-sequencing and spatial transcriptome analyses to investigate pathogenic features in DMD patients and the effects of glucocorticoids. The researchers found that inhibiting EZH2 in mice improved muscle phenotype by overriding the muscle weakness and fibrogenic effects of glucocorticoids. This research provides insights into potential therapeutic options for DMD. [Extracted from the article]