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BACKGROUND: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most common causes of heart failure. Multiple identified mutations in nexilin (NEXN) have been suggested to be linked with severe DCM. However, the exact association between multiple mutations of Nexn and DCM remains unclear. Moreover, it is critical for the development of precise and effective therapeutics in treatments of DCM. RESULTS: In our study, Nexn global knockout mice and mice carrying human equivalent G645del mutation are studied using functional gene rescue assays. AAV-mediated gene delivery is conducted through systemic intravenous injections at the neonatal stage. Heart tissues are analyzed by immunoblots, and functions are assessed by echocardiography. Here, we identify functional components of Nexilin and demonstrate that exogenous introduction could rescue the cardiac function and extend the lifespan of Nexn knockout mouse models. Similar therapeutic effects are also obtained in G645del mice, providing a promising intervention for future clinical therapeutics. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, we demonstrated that a single injection of AAV-Nexn was capable to restore the functions of cardiomyocytes and extended the lifespan of Nexn knockout and G645del mice. Our study represented a long-term gene replacement therapy for DCM that potentially covers all forms of loss-of-function mutations in NEXN.

Copyright of Biology Teaching is the property of East China Normal University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Organoids are “mini-organs” that self-organize and differentiate from stem cells under in vitro 3D culture conditions, mimicking the spatial structure and function of tissues in vivo. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale phospholipid bilayer vesicles secreted by living cells, rich in bioactive molecules, with excellent biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. Compared to EVs, organoid-derived EVs (OEVs) exhibit higher yield and enhanced biological functions. Organoids possess stem cell characteristics, and OEVs are capable of delivering active substances, making both highly promising for medical applications. In this review, we provide an overview of the fundamental biological principles of organoids and OEVs, and discuss their current applications in disease treatment. We then focus on the differences between OEVs and traditional EVs. Subsequently, we present methods for the engineering modification of OEVs. Finally, we critically summarize the advantages and challenges of organoids and OEVs. In conclusion, we believe that a deeper understanding of organoids and OEVs will provide innovative solutions to complex diseases. Graphical Abstract

Bovine milk is widely recognized as one of the most valuable sources of nutrients such as proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals that support the development and health of the body. In recent years, there has been increasing scientific interest in exosomes, the small membrane-bound vesicles found in milk. Through their content (e.g., microRNA), exosomes can influence gene expression and modulate key signaling pathways within target cells. Results from in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that bovine milk-derived exosomes can alleviate intestinal inflammation by regulating signaling pathways and positively influencing the composition of the gut microbiota. They also improve cognitive function and support nervous system regeneration. In addition, exosomes promote bone health by stimulating osteoblast formation and inhibiting bone resorption, helping to prevent osteoporosis. Studies have shown that exosomes have beneficial effects on skin health by promoting collagen production, protecting cells from oxidative stress, and delaying the ageing process. Bovine milk-derived exosomes are a promising tool for the treatment and prevention of a variety of diseases, particularly those related to inflammation and tissue regeneration. Although these results are promising, further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and the potential clinical application of milk exosomes in the prevention and treatment of different diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microneedles (MNs), composed of multiple micron-scale needle-like structures attached to a base, offer a minimally invasive approach for transdermal drug delivery by penetrating the stratum corneum and delivering therapeutic agents directly to the epidermis or dermis. Hydrogel microneedles (HMNs) stand out among various MN types due to their excellent biocompatibility, high drug-loading capacity, and tunable drug-release properties. This review systematically examines the matrix materials and fabrication methods of HMN systems, highlighting advancements in natural and synthetic polymers, and explores their applications in treating conditions such as wound healing, hair loss, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Furthermore, the potential of HMNs for disease diagnostics is discussed. The review identifies key challenges, including limited mechanical strength, drug-loading efficiency, and lack of standardization, while proposing strategies to overcome these issues. With the integration of intelligent design and enhanced control over drug dosage and safety, HMNs are poised to revolutionize transdermal drug delivery and expand their applications in personalized medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on exploring innovative drug delivery approaches due to the limitations of conventional therapeutic strategies, such as inadequate drug targeting, insufficient therapeutic efficacy, and significant adverse effects. Nanomedicines have emerged as a promising solution with notable advantages, including extended drug circulation, targeted delivery, and improved bioavailability, potentially enhancing the clinical treatment of various diseases. Natural products/materials-derived nanomedicines, characterized by their natural therapeutic efficacy, superior biocompatibility, and safety profile, play a crucial role in nanomedicine-based treatments. This review provides a comprehensive overview of currently approved natural products-derived nanomedicines, emphasizing the essential properties of natural products-derived drug carriers, their applications in clinical diagnosis and treatment, and the current therapeutic potential and challenges. The aim is to offer guidance for the application and further development of these innovative therapeutic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organoids are "mini-organs" that self-organize and differentiate from stem cells under in vitro 3D culture conditions, mimicking the spatial structure and function of tissues in vivo. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale phospholipid bilayer vesicles secreted by living cells, rich in bioactive molecules, with excellent biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. Compared to EVs, organoid-derived EVs (OEVs) exhibit higher yield and enhanced biological functions. Organoids possess stem cell characteristics, and OEVs are capable of delivering active substances, making both highly promising for medical applications. In this review, we provide an overview of the fundamental biological principles of organoids and OEVs, and discuss their current applications in disease treatment. We then focus on the differences between OEVs and traditional EVs. Subsequently, we present methods for the engineering modification of OEVs. Finally, we critically summarize the advantages and challenges of organoids and OEVs. In conclusion, we believe that a deeper understanding of organoids and OEVs will provide innovative solutions to complex diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes are a kind of nanoscale membrane vesicles that can be secreted by many types of cells in both normal and pathological states and play a very important role in intercellular information exchange and transmission by transporting proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and other biologically active substances to act on the receptor cells. Recent studies have shown that exosomes from some plants, animals, microorganisms, and other food sources can also be extracted like the structure of exosomes secreted by mammalian cells, which are named food-derived exosomes (FDEs) and can be absorbed by intestinal cells and further transported to other organs through blood circulation. With the advantages of high biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, low toxicity, high cargo capacity, and the ability to cross biological barriers, FDEs can be involved in a variety of applications such as immune response, cell migration, and tumor invasion, and have attracted a lot of attention as biotherapeutic agents and drug delivery carriers in the treatment of human diseases. This article reviews the classification, preparation characterization, physiological processes in the human body, biological functions, and application prospects of FDEs. It aims to provide a reference for the research and application of FDEs in disease treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucalyptol is a naturally occurring organic compound that has gained significant use in the pharmaceutical industry. Primarily extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus plant, eucalyptol exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. Research has demonstrated its effectiveness in combating a variety of bacteria and viruses, including those responsible for colds and flu. Eucalyptol is recognized for alleviating symptoms of respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis by easing breathing and reducing inflammation in the airways, thereby improving patient outcomes. Due to its antioxidant properties, eucalyptol is also used in anti-aging and skin-protecting pharmaceutical formulations. Additionally, it is included in analgesic and pain-relief products, helping to alleviate various types of pain, including headaches and muscle pain, by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals in the nervous system. Overall, eucalyptol has emerged as a versatile compound in the pharmaceutical industry, with ongoing research aimed at uncovering new applications for this valuable substance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) is a multifunctional nuclear enzyme that catalyzes poly-ADP ribosylation in eukaryotic cells. In addition to maintaining genomic integrity, this nuclear enzyme is also involved in transcriptional regulation. PARP1 can trigger and maintain changes in the chromatin structure and directly recruit transcription factors. PARP1 also prevents DNA methylation. However, most previous reviews on PARP1 have focused on its involvement in maintaining genome integrity, with less focus on its transcriptional regulatory function. This article comprehensively reviews the transcriptional regulatory function of PARP1 and its application in disease treatment, providing new ideas for targeting PARP1 for the treatment of diseases other than cancer.

Ketum, or its scientific name, Mitragyna speciosa Korth. (M. speciosa Korth.), is a type of natural herb plant that grows in the north of the peninsula of the country, Malaysia, especially in Perlis and Kedah. Other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, such as Indonesia and Thailand, are also home to this plant. Basically, ketum has been used for a long time as one of the traditional treatment sources by the local community. It is believed to be able to provide energy nutrients, help in the treatment of diabetes, diarrhea, worms, gout, high blood pressure, increase appetite and inner energy. This study was conducted to look at the benefits and harms of ketum, identify its use from the perspective of current Islamic law and evaluate the acceptance of ketum according to the views of experts representing various fields of medicine, science, pharmacy, law and syariah. This study uses a literature and field data collection methodology. Furthermore, the data that have been collected are analyzed based on inductive, deductive and comparative patterns. This study found that ketum has a high medicinal value, supported by scientific evidence. From an Islamic perspective, the origin of the use of ketum is permissible, but several current variable factors seem to have a significant impact on its prohibition. Therefore, the acceptance of the use of ketum for the treatment of diseases legally needs to go through several important phases, such as scientific evidence, legislation and control mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a pivotal biological molecule with essential roles in cellular energy transfer and metabolic regulation. In recent years, research on NAD+ in the medical and health domains has garnered significant attention, particularly concerning aging, metabolic disorders, and cancer treatment. Foods associated with NAD+ are gradually becoming popular choices on contemporary dining tables. This article, adopting a personified tone, presents the chemical structure, biological functions, and the latest research advancements pertaining to NAD+, while also assessing its potential transition from the realm of anti-aging to clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) is a multifunctional nuclear enzyme that catalyzes poly-ADP ribosylation in eukaryotic cells. In addition to maintaining genomic integrity, this nuclear enzyme is also involved in transcriptional regulation. PARP1 can trigger and maintain changes in the chromatin structure and directly recruit transcription factors. PARP1 also prevents DNA methylation. However, most previous reviews on PARP1 have focused on its involvement in maintaining genome integrity, with less focus on its transcriptional regulatory function. This article comprehensively reviews the transcriptional regulatory function of PARP1 and its application in disease treatment, providing new ideas for targeting PARP1 for the treatment of diseases other than cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microneedles (MNs), characterized by their micron-sized sharp tips, can painlessly penetrate the skin and have shown significant potential in disease treatment and biosensing. With the development of artificial intelligence (AI), the design and application of MNs have experienced substantial innovation aided by machine learning (ML). This review begins with a brief introduction to the concept of ML and its current stage of development. Subsequently, the design principles and fabrication methods of MNs are explored, demonstrating the critical role of ML in optimizing their design and preparation. Integration between ML and the applications of MNs in therapy and sensing were further discussed. Finally, we outline the challenges and prospects of machine learning-assisted MN technology, aiming to advance its practical application and development in the field of smart diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, though etiologically distinct, are both inflammatory joint diseases that cause progressive joint injury, chronic pain, and loss of function. Therefore, long-term treatment with a focus on relieving symptoms is needed. At present, the primary treatment for arthritis is drug therapy, both oral and intravenous. Although significant progress has been achieved for these treatment methods in alleviating symptoms, certain prominent drawbacks such as the substantial side effects and limited absorption of medications call for an urgent need for improved drug delivery methods. Injected hydrogels can be used as a delivery system to deliver drugs to the joint cavity in a controlled manner and continuously release them, thereby enhancing drug retention in the joint cavity to improve therapeutic effectiveness, which is attributed to the desirable attributes of the delivery system such as low immunogenicity, good biodegradability and biocompatibility. This review summarizes the types of injectable hydrogels and analyzes their applications as delivery systems in arthritis treatment. We also explored how hydrogels counteract inflammation, bone and cartilage degradation, and oxidative stress, while promoting joint cartilage regeneration in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This review also highlights new approaches to developing injectable hydrogels as delivery systems for OA and RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For its vital role in maintaining cellular activity and survival, mitochondrion is highly involved in various diseases, and several strategies to target mitochondria have been developed for specific imaging and treatment. Among these approaches, theranostic may realize both diagnosis and therapy with one integrated material, benefiting the simplification of treatment process and candidate drug evaluation. A variety of mitochondria‐targeting theranostic agents have been designed based on the differential structure and composition of mitochondria, which enable more precise localization within cellular mitochondria at disease sites, facilitating the unveiling of pathological information while concurrently performing therapeutic interventions. Here, progress of mitochondria‐targeting theranostic materials reported in recent years along with background information on mitochondria‐targeting and therapy have been briefly summarized, determining to deliver updated status and design ideas in this field to readers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biology Teaching is the property of East China Normal University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Pharmaceutical drugs, including vaccines, pre- and post-exposure prophylactics, and chronic drug therapies, are crucial tools in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. These drugs have the ability to increase survival and improve patient quality of life; however, infectious diseases still accounted for more than 10.2 million deaths in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. High mortality can be, in part, attributed to challenges in the availability of adequate drugs and vaccines, limited accessibility, poor drug bioavailability, the high cost of some treatments, and low patient adherence. A majority of these factors are logistical rather than technical challenges, providing an opportunity for existing drugs and vaccines to be improved through formulation. Injectable controlled-release drug delivery systems are one class of formulations that have the potential to overcome many of these limitations by releasing their contents in a sustained manner to reduce the need for frequent readministration and improve clinical outcomes. This review provides an overview of injectable controlled drug delivery platforms, including microparticles, nanoparticles, and injectable gels, detailing recent developments using these systems for singleinjection vaccination, long-acting prophylaxis, and sustained-release treatments for infectious disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most common causes of heart failure. Multiple identified mutations in nexilin (NEXN) have been suggested to be linked with severe DCM. However, the exact association between multiple mutations of Nexn and DCM remains unclear. Moreover, it is critical for the development of precise and effective therapeutics in treatments of DCM. Results In our study, Nexn global knockout mice and mice carrying human equivalent G645del mutation are studied using functional gene rescue assays. AAV-mediated gene delivery is conducted through systemic intravenous injections at the neonatal stage. Heart tissues are analyzed by immunoblots, and functions are assessed by echocardiography. Here, we identify functional components of Nexilin and demonstrate that exogenous introduction could rescue the cardiac function and extend the lifespan of Nexn knockout mouse models. Similar therapeutic effects are also obtained in G645del mice, providing a promising intervention for future clinical therapeutics. Conclusions In summary, we demonstrated that a single injection of AAV-Nexn was capable to restore the functions of cardiomyocytes and extended the lifespan of Nexn knockout and G645del mice. Our study represented a long-term gene replacement therapy for DCM that potentially covers all forms of loss-of-function mutations in NEXN.

Nanotechnology can be used to treat a number of diseases, which are currently the main cause of death in the world, and allow to achieve the desired therapeutic effect for the patient. This mini-review focuses on the analysis of scientific literary sources dealing with the application of nanotechnology in the immunotherapy of diseases and covers the period from 2016 to 2022. In particular, it provides an overview of recently discovered nanotechnologies (including immunomodulatory nanosystems) used for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cancer, infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The review also discusses the role of nanosystems in cancer immunotherapy. Additional attention is paid to nanomaterials with new structures, properties, and functions, which are used in the modern practice of treating viral and bacterial infections. A part of the paper is devoted to nanoparticles that enhance the effect of immunosuppressive cells in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The analysis performed clearly demonstrates the relevance of nanotechnologies for the use in the immunotherapy of diseases. We hope it will allow researchers to identify new areas for using nanoparticles in the treatment of diseases of various etiologies.

A tumor is nothing but excess cells growing in an uncontrolled manner. Brain tumor cells grow in a way that they eventually take up all the nutrients meant for the healthy cells and tissues, which results in brain failure. Currently, doctors locate the position and the area of brain tumor by looking at the MR Images of the brain of the patient manually. This results in inaccurate detection of the tumor and is considered very time consuming. We are using a Deep Learning architectures CNN (Convolution Neural Network) generally known as NN (Neural Network) Transfer learning for detecting brain tumors. The performance of the model is predicting image tumor is present or not in image. If the tumor is present, it returns yes otherwise return no. Here the location of the tumor is identified by K-means clustering using Raspberry pi. The Arduino controller is used for the movement of the robotic wheels to move in the exact location and determines the position of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrates play a crucial role in various life processes such as cell recognition, bacterial infection, signal transduction, and immune response. Due to their associated biological effects, the naturally existing carbohydrates and their derivatives have been extensively studied. Carbohydrates are also important lead for drug development, carbohydrate-based drugs exhibit excellent therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of various diseases such as infection, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Ribose and deoxyribose are the primary scaffolds for nucleoside drugs, which can inhibit viral replication and serve as treatments for viral infections. Carbohydrates-containing macrolide and aminoglycoside antibiotics target the 50S subunit and 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes respectively, to hinder protein synthesis and eliminate bacteria. Heparin, a highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan, acts as an anticoagulant by binding to antithrombin III and inactivating thrombin. Pseudo-saccharide can bind to glycosidase to prevent oligosaccharide hydrolysis, thereby controlling blood sugar levels. Additionally, sugar vaccines are crucial in cancer treatment, highlighting the broad applications of sugar drugs across various diseases. Furthermore, the rapid development of glycochemistry has deepened scientists’ understanding of carbohydrates, and medicinal chemists increasingly apply this knowledge to the design of new drugs. This review provides a brief overview of the application of carbohydrate-containing drugs in various disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tunnel Construction / Suidao Jianshe (Zhong-Yingwen Ban) is the property of Tunnel Construction Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Railway Standard Design is the property of Railway Standard Design Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract For its vital role in maintaining cellular activity and survival, mitochondrion is highly involved in various diseases, and several strategies to target mitochondria have been developed for specific imaging and treatment. Among these approaches, theranostic may realize both diagnosis and therapy with one integrated material, benefiting the simplification of treatment process and candidate drug evaluation. A variety of mitochondria‐targeting theranostic agents have been designed based on the differential structure and composition of mitochondria, which enable more precise localization within cellular mitochondria at disease sites, facilitating the unveiling of pathological information while concurrently performing therapeutic interventions. Here, progress of mitochondria‐targeting theranostic materials reported in recent years along with background information on mitochondria‐targeting and therapy have been briefly summarized, determining to deliver updated status and design ideas in this field to readers.

Natural products (NPs) play an irreplaceable role in the intervention of various diseases and have been considered a critical source of drug development. Many new pharmacodynamic compounds with potential clinical applications have recently been derived from NPs. These compounds range from small molecules to polysaccharides, polypeptides, proteins, self-assembled nanoparticles, and extracellular vesicles. This review summarizes various active substances found in NPs. The investigation of active substances in NPs can potentiate new drug development and promote the in-depth comprehension of the mechanism of action of NPs that can be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of human diseases.

Abstract Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is a NAD+-dependent class III deacetylase that plays important roles in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, positioning it as a prime candidate for therapeutic intervention. Among its modulators, SRT2104 emerges as the most specific small molecule activator of SIRT1, currently advancing into the clinical translation phase. The primary objective of this review is to evaluate the emerging roles of SRT2104, and to explore its potential as a therapeutic agent in various diseases. In the present review, we systematically summarized the findings from an extensive array of literature sources including the progress of its application in disease treatment and its potential molecular mechanisms by reviewing the literature published in databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We focuses on the strides made in employing SRT2104 for disease treatment, elucidating its potential molecular underpinnings based on preclinical and clinical research data. The findings reveal that SRT2104, as a potent SIRT1 activator, holds considerable therapeutic potential, particularly in modulating metabolic and longevity-related pathways. This review establishes SRT2104 as a leading SIRT1 activator with significant therapeutic promise.

Mingtang Zeng,1 Yao Wang,1 Maozhu Liu,1 Yuxun Wei,2 Jie Wen,3 Yuchen Zhang,1 Tao Chen,4 Nianyu He,1 Ping Fan,1 Xinhua Dai5 1Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, Zhongjiang County People’s Hospital, Deyang, 618000, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pharmacy, Shehong Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shehong, 629600, People’s Republic of China; 4Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People’s Republic of China; 5Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Xinhua Dai, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Email dxh9123@163.com Ping Fan, Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Email m13980602288@163.comAbstract: Carbon dots (CDs), a crucial component of nanomaterials, are zero-dimensional nanomaterials with carbon as the backbone structure and smaller than 10 nm. Due to their beneficial characteristics, they are widely used in biomedical fields such as biosensors, drug delivery, bio-imaging, and interactions with DNA. Interestingly, a novel type of carbon dot, generated by using herbal medicines as synthetic raw materials, has emerged as the most recent incomer in the family of CDs with the extensive growth in the number of materials selected for carbon dots synthesis. Herbal medicine-derived carbon dots (HM-CDs) have been employed in the biomedical industry, and are rapidly emerging as “modern nanomaterials” due to their unique structures and exceptional capabilities. Emerging trends suggest that their specific properties can be used in bleeding disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation-related diseases, and other common intractable diseases including cancer, menopausal syndrome, central nervous system disorders, and pain of various forms and causes. In addition, HM-CDs have been found to have organ-protective and antioxidant properties, as evidenced by extensive studies. This research provides a more comprehensive understanding of the biomedical applications of HM-CDs for the aforementioned disorders and investigates the intrinsic pharmacological activities and mechanisms of these HM-CDs to further advance their clinical applications. Keywords: herbal medicine, carbon dots, disease treatment, nanomaterials, potential mechanism

Oxidative stress is associated with the development of many diseases, such as chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Antioxidants can scavenge free radicals in the body, reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and effectively prevent oxidative stress. Polysaccharide is a antioxidants that widely found in natural resources, which is a kind of high molecular polymer with antioxidant activity. It can prevent oxidative stress and play a role in disease prevention through various mechanisms. In this paper, the different types of polysaccharides were summarized, such as plant polysaccharides, algal polysaccharides, microbial polysaccharides and animal polysaccharides, and their antioxidant mechanism and application in the treatment of disease were also discussed. we hope this review can offer some theoretical basis and inspiration for the antioxidant activity study and application of polysaccharides from natural resources.

Driven by the intricacy of the illness and the need for individualized treatments, targeted therapy and biomarker research in thyroid cancer represent an important frontier in oncology. The variety of genetic changes associated with thyroid cancer demand more investigation to elucidate molecular details. This research is clinically significant since it can be used to develop customized treatment plans. A more focused approach is provided by targeted therapies, which target certain molecular targets such as mutant BRAF or RET proteins. This strategy minimizes collateral harm to healthy tissues and may also reduce adverse effects. Simultaneously, patient categorization based on molecular profiles is made possible by biomarker exploration, which allows for customized therapy regimens and maximizes therapeutic results. The benefits of targeted therapy and biomarker research go beyond their immediate clinical impact to encompass the whole cancer landscape. Comprehending the genetic underpinnings of thyroid cancer facilitates the creation of novel treatments that specifically target aberrant molecules. This advances the treatment of thyroid cancer and advances precision medicine, paving the way for the treatment of other cancers. Taken simply, more study on thyroid cancer is promising for better patient care. The concepts discovered during this investigation have the potential to completely transform the way that care is provided, bringing in a new era of personalized, precision medicine. This paradigm shift could improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with thyroid cancer and act as an inspiration for advances in other cancer types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is a NAD+-dependent class III deacetylase that plays important roles in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, positioning it as a prime candidate for therapeutic intervention. Among its modulators, SRT2104 emerges as the most specific small molecule activator of SIRT1, currently advancing into the clinical translation phase. The primary objective of this review is to evaluate the emerging roles of SRT2104, and to explore its potential as a therapeutic agent in various diseases. In the present review, we systematically summarized the findings from an extensive array of literature sources including the progress of its application in disease treatment and its potential molecular mechanisms by reviewing the literature published in databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We focuses on the strides made in employing SRT2104 for disease treatment, elucidating its potential molecular underpinnings based on preclinical and clinical research data. The findings reveal that SRT2104, as a potent SIRT1 activator, holds considerable therapeutic potential, particularly in modulating metabolic and longevity-related pathways. This review establishes SRT2104 as a leading SIRT1 activator with significant therapeutic promise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment effectiveness and biosafety are critical for disease therapy. Bio-membrane modification facilitates the homologous targeting of drugs in vivo by exploiting unique antibodies or antigens, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy while ensuring biosafety. To further enhance the precision of disease treatment, future research should shift focus from targeted cellular delivery to targeted subcellular delivery. As the cellular powerhouses, mitochondria play an indispensable role in cell growth and regulation and are closely involved in many diseases (e.g. , cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases). The double-layer membrane wrapped on the surface of mitochondria not only maintains the stability of their internal environment but also plays a crucial role in fundamental biological processes, such as energy generation, metabolite transport, and information communication. A growing body of evidence suggests that various diseases are tightly related to mitochondrial imbalance. Moreover, mitochondria-targeted strategies hold great potential to decrease therapeutic threshold dosage, minimize side effects, and promote the development of precision medicine. Herein, we introduce the structure and function of mitochondrial membranes, summarize and discuss the important role of mitochondrial membrane-targeting materials in disease diagnosis/treatment, and expound the advantages of mitochondrial membrane-assisted drug delivery for disease diagnosis, treatment, and biosafety. This review helps readers understand mitochondria-targeted therapies and promotes the application of mitochondrial membranes in drug delivery. Bio-membrane modification facilitates the homologous targeting of drugs in vivo by exploiting unique antibodies or antigens, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy while ensuring biosafety. Compared to cell-targeted treatment, targeting of mitochondria for drug delivery offers higher efficiency and improved biosafety and will promote the development of precision medicine. As a natural material, the mitochondrial membrane exhibits excellent biocompatibility and can serve as a carrier for mitochondria-targeted delivery. This review provides an overview of the structure and function of mitochondrial membranes and explores the potential benefits of utilizing mitochondrial membrane-assisted drug delivery for disease treatment and biosafety. The aim of this review is to enhance readers' comprehension of mitochondrial targeted therapy and to advance the utilization of mitochondrial membrane in drug delivery. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscale drug delivery systems (nDDS) have been employed widely in enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of drugs against diseases with reduced side effects. Although several nDDS have been successfully approved for clinical use up to now, biological barriers between the administration site and the target site hinder the wider clinical adoption of nDDS in disease treatment. Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modification (or PEGylation) has been regarded as the gold standard for stabilising nDDS in complex biological environment. However, the accelerated blood clearance (ABC) of PEGylated nDDS after repeated injections becomes great challenges for their clinical applications. Zwitterionic polymer, a novel family of anti-fouling materials, have evolved as an alternative to PEG due to their super-hydrophilicity and biocompatibility. Zwitterionic nDDS could avoid the generation of ABC phenomenon and exhibit longer blood circulation time than the PEGylated analogues. More impressively, zwitterionic nDDS have recently been shown to overcome multiple biological barriers such as nonspecific organ distribution, pressure gradients, impermeable cell membranes and lysosomal degradation without the need of any complex chemical modifications. The realization of overcoming multiple biological barriers by zwitterionic nDDS may simplify the current overly complex design of nDDS, which could facilitate their better clinical translation. Herein, we summarise the recent progress of zwitterionic nDDS at overcoming various biological barriers and analyse their underlying mechanisms. Finally, prospects and challenges are introduced to guide the rational design of zwitterionic nDDS for disease treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, drug delivery strategies based on nanomaterials have attracted a lot of interest in different kinds of therapies because of their superior properties. Polydopamine (PDA), one of the most interesting materials in nanomedicine because of its versatility and biocompatibility, has been widely investigated in the drug delivery field. It can be easily functionalized to favor processes like cellular uptake and blood circulation, and it can also induce drug release through two kinds of stimuli: NIR light irradiation and pH. In this review, we describe PDA nanomaterials' performance on drug delivery, based on their size, morphology, and surface charge. Indeed, these characteristics strongly influence the main mechanisms involved in a drug delivery system: blood circulation, cellular uptake, drug loading, and drug release. The understanding of the connections between PDA nanosystems' properties and these phenomena is pivotal to obtain a controlled design of new nanocarriers based on the specific drug delivery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Far infrared (FIR) irradiation is commonly used as a convenient, non-contact, non-invasive treatment for diseases such as myocardial ischemia, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. In this review, we focus on reviewing the potential therapeutic mechanisms of FIR and its cutting-edge applications in cancer detection. Firstly, we searched the relevant literature in the last decade for systematic screening and briefly summarized the biophysical properties of FIR. We then focused on the possible mechanisms of FIR in wound healing, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic diseases. In addition, we review recent applications of FIR in cancer detection, where Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and infrared thermography provide additional diagnostic methods for the medical diagnosis of cancer. Finally, we conclude and look into the future development of FIR for disease treatment and cancer detection. As a high-frequency non-ionizing wave, FIR has the advantages of safety, convenience, and low cost. We hope that this review can provide biological information reference and relevant data support for those who are interested in FIR and related high-frequency non-ionizing waves, to promote the further application of FIR in the biomedical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric assemblies have emerged as a kind of promising platform in biomedical fields. The strong potency of polyphenols to form versatile interactions with other small or polymeric molecules via covalent and noncovalent linkages enables polyphenols to serve as molecular glues, offering a magic driving force to assemble multiple functional molecules into a diversity of polyphenol‐based systems, such as nanoparticles and hydrogels. Due to the unique merits of anti‐tumor, anti‐bacterial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties of polyphenols, polyphenol‐based systems hold great promise to deal with a wide spectrum of diseases. This review comprehensively overviews the components, intermolecular interactions, and preparation methods implicated in the assembly of polyphenol‐based systems. In addition, their medical applications are introduced, particularly the treatments of various diseases, such as tumors, bacterial infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), chronic periodontitis, acute lung injury, osteoarthritis, and renal fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have a high specific surface area, adjustable pores and can be used to obtain functional porous materials with diverse and well-ordered structures through coordination and self-assembly, which has intrigued wide interest in a broad range of disciplines. In the arena of biomedical engineering, the functionalized modification of MOFs has produced drug carriers with excellent dispersion and functionalities such as target delivery and response release, with promising applications in bio-detection, disease therapy, tissue healing, and other areas. This review summarizes the present state of research on the functionalization of MOFs by physical binding or chemical cross-linking of small molecules, polymers, biomacromolecules, and hydrogels and evaluates the role and approach of MOFs functionalization in boosting the reactivity of materials. On this basis, research on the application of functionalized MOFs composites in biomedical engineering fields such as drug delivery, tissue repair, disease treatment, bio-detection and imaging is surveyed, and the development trend and application prospects of functionalized MOFs as an important new class of biomedical materials in the biomedical field are anticipated, which may provide some inspiration and reference for further development of MOF for bio-medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology can be used to treat a number of diseases, which are currently the main cause of death in the world, and allow to achieve the desired therapeutic effect for the patient. This mini-review focuses on the analysis of scientific literary sources dealing with the application of nanotechnology in the immunotherapy of diseases and covers the period from 2016 to 2022. In particular, it provides an overview of recently discovered nanotechnologies (including immunomodulatory nanosystems) used for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cancer, infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The review also discusses the role of nanosystems in cancer immunotherapy. Additional attention is paid to nanomaterials with new structures, properties, and functions, which are used in the modern practice of treating viral and bacterial infections. A part of the paper is devoted to nanoparticles that enhance the effect of immunosuppressive cells in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The analysis performed clearly demonstrates the relevance of nanotechnologies for the use in the immunotherapy of diseases. We hope it will allow researchers to identify new areas for using nanoparticles in the treatment of diseases of various etiologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zeng M, Wang Y, Liu M, et al. Int J Nanomedicine. 2023;18:6503–6525. The authors have advised that Figure 2 on page 6510 was published in error. The correct Figure 2 is as follows. Figure 2 HM-CDs significantly improved blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. HM-CD-1 has an ultra-tiny size and abundance surface functional groups. The covalent binding of HM-CD-2 to the drug facilitates passive transport of the drug. HM-CD-3 has a strong affinity for the BBB endothelial cell membrane. The authors apologize for this error.