Pub Date : 2025-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100773
Raza Ur Rehman MBBS, Ahmad Furqan Anjum MBBS, Rida Fatima MBBS
{"title":"Tarlatamab and the Future of Immunotherapy: A New Approach to Small Cell Lung Cancer","authors":"Raza Ur Rehman MBBS, Ahmad Furqan Anjum MBBS, Rida Fatima MBBS","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100773","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100773","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100773"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11772990/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143058343","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The role of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in healthcare is substantial and frequently overlooked, with widespread use in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to explore the ethnomedicinal knowledge including prevalence, socio-demographic, and health related characteristics related to gastroenterology and hepatology disorders in Kerman province.
Materials and methods
This study included 400 eligible patients attending gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic. Data collection was conducted using various assessment tools, that is, a self-administered demographic and ethnomedicine questionnaire, and quality of life questionnaire.
Results
The findings of the present study revealed that 40.3% of the patients surveyed commonly used CAM. Among the participants, 63.4% did not alter their medication intake while using CAM, and 85.7% were satisfied with its effectiveness. The majority of consumers relied on friends and family, making up 41.6% of the sources of information on CAM, with only 14.9% disclosing their CAM usage to physicians. Furthermore, CAM users have a significantly higher level of education, with the physical functioning being a key aspect of QOL.
Conclusion
Although the results of this study may not be broadly generalizable, specific points in the findings are still significant. The utilization of CAM treating for gastrointestinal and liver issues is becoming more prevalent among patients in the area. It is essential to educate patients about the real effects of CAM in disease prevention and treatment, particularly considering patient concerns about side effects, and untrustworthy information sources.
{"title":"Ethnomedicine Knowledge Among Iranian Patients With Gastrointestinal And Liver Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study","authors":"Fatemeh Sadat Hasheminasab MD,Ph.D , Yasaman Zamanian MD , Saiedeh Haji-Maghsoudi Ph.D , Alireza Bakhshipour MD , Maryam Azimi MD,Ph.D","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100774","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100774","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>The role of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in healthcare is substantial and frequently overlooked, with widespread use in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to explore the ethnomedicinal knowledge including prevalence, socio-demographic, and health related characteristics related to gastroenterology and hepatology disorders in Kerman province.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><div>This study included 400 eligible patients attending gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic. Data collection was conducted using various assessment tools, that is, a self-administered demographic and ethnomedicine questionnaire, and quality of life questionnaire.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The findings of the present study revealed that 40.3% of the patients surveyed commonly used CAM. Among the participants, 63.4% did not alter their medication intake while using CAM, and 85.7% were satisfied with its effectiveness. The majority of consumers relied on friends and family, making up 41.6% of the sources of information on CAM, with only 14.9% disclosing their CAM usage to physicians. Furthermore, CAM users have a significantly higher level of education, with the physical functioning being a key aspect of QOL.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Although the results of this study may not be broadly generalizable, specific points in the findings are still significant. The utilization of CAM treating for gastrointestinal and liver issues is becoming more prevalent among patients in the area. It is essential to educate patients about the real effects of CAM in disease prevention and treatment, particularly considering patient concerns about side effects, and untrustworthy information sources.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100774"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143142208","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common and debilitating symptom in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, affecting their quality of life. Although Cevimeline, a muscarinic agonist, has been investigated as a potential treatment, its efficacy and optimal dosage remain uncertain. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Cevimeline in relieving xerostomia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome by a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCT).
Method
A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases, utilizing Medical Subject Headings terms and keywords related to “cevimeline,” “xerostomia,” and “Sjögren's syndrome” from inception until January 3, 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria, focusing on clinical trials involving human subjects treated with cevimeline for xerostomia in Sjögren's syndrome. Data extraction was performed systematically, and statistical analysis was conducted using STATA software.
Result
This meta-analysis included three RCTs with a total of 302 patients with Sjögren's syndrome (Cevimeline = 187; Placebo = 115). The analysis demonstrated that Cevimeline significantly reduces xerostomia (regarded as salivary flow, mouth dryness) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome with a pooled odds ratio –5.79 (95% CI [–10.55, –1.03]; I2 = 39.6%).
Conclusions
In summary, cevimeline significantly increases salivary flow secretion rates in patients with Sjögren's syndrome. With a favorable safety profile at recommended dosages, cevimeline represents a viable therapeutic option for managing xerostomia, particularly in patients with mild to moderate salivary gland destruction.
{"title":"Efficacy of Cevimeline on Xerostomia in Sjögren's Syndrome Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials","authors":"Mehdi Karimi MD , Fatemeh Ahmadi Hajikolaei MD , Fahime Hoseinpour MD , Seyed-Ali Hashemi MD , Anita Fatehi MD , Seyed-Abbas Pakmehr MD , Niloofar Deravi MD , Mahdyieh Naziri MSc , Mohaddeseh Belbasi MD , Sahar Khoshravesh MD , Seyed Hossein Vaezzadeh MD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100770","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100770","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common and debilitating symptom in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, affecting their quality of life. Although Cevimeline, a muscarinic agonist, has been investigated as a potential treatment, its efficacy and optimal dosage remain uncertain. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Cevimeline in relieving xerostomia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome by a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCT).</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases, utilizing Medical Subject Headings terms and keywords related to “cevimeline,” “xerostomia,” and “Sjögren's syndrome” from inception until January 3, 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria, focusing on clinical trials involving human subjects treated with cevimeline for xerostomia in Sjögren's syndrome. Data extraction was performed systematically, and statistical analysis was conducted using STATA software.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>This meta-analysis included three RCTs with a total of 302 patients with Sjögren's syndrome (Cevimeline = 187; Placebo = 115). The analysis demonstrated that Cevimeline significantly reduces xerostomia (regarded as salivary flow, mouth dryness) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome with a pooled odds ratio –5.79 (95% CI [–10.55, –1.03]; <em>I</em><strong><sup>2</sup></strong> = 39.6%).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In summary, cevimeline significantly increases salivary flow secretion rates in patients with Sjögren's syndrome. With a favorable safety profile at recommended dosages, cevimeline represents a viable therapeutic option for managing xerostomia, particularly in patients with mild to moderate salivary gland destruction.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100770"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11764655/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143045872","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Treatment with tacrolimus requires strict control of the whole-blood concentration in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In patients undergoing cord blood transplantation (CBT), there is a negative correlation between volume of distribution of tacrolimus and hemoglobin levels, which reflect the red blood cell (RBC) count. In this study, we evaluated the influence of the conditioning regimen (myeloablative and reduced-intensity conditioning) or donor source (cord blood, bone marrow, and peripheral blood stem cells) on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in patients undergoing HSCT, including those undergoing CBT. We also examined applicability of dosing strategy of tacrolimus considering the RBC count.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed clinical data—including whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations—from patients with HSCT. The observation period spanned from first continuous intravenous infusions until switch to oral medication, transfer to another hospital, relapse, or death. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations obtained from therapeutic drug monitoring during the observation period. Patient characteristics and laboratory data were evaluated as covariates.
Results
We enrolled 91 patients undergoing HSCT (CBT: n = 56; bone marrow transplantation: n = 22; and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation: n = 13); 58 and 33 patients received myeloablative conditioning and reduced-intensity conditioning, respectively. Whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations were accurately captured (n = 1,658 measurements) using a one-compartment and additive error model. The conditioning regimen and donor source did not have an impact on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus. Therefore, these factors were not considered when forming the dosing strategy. Nevertheless, a negative correlation between volume of distribution and hemoglobin level was confirmed, indicating that monitoring the RBC count is useful in assessing the dosing strategy.
Conclusions
A tacrolimus dosing strategy that considers the variability in hemoglobin levels applies to all patients undergoing HSCT.
{"title":"Effect of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Regimen on Tacrolimus Pharmacokinetics","authors":"Haruno Oku BS , Saki Yoshida BS , Takumi Hotta BS , Hirohito Muroi BS , Keizo Fukushima PhD , Kei Irie PhD , Tatsuya Hirano BS , Yoshimitsu Shimomura MD , Takayuki Ishikawa MD, PhD , Hiroaki Ikesue PhD , Nobuyuki Muroi PhD , Tohru Hashida PhD , Nobuyuki Sugioka PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100775","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100775","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Treatment with tacrolimus requires strict control of the whole-blood concentration in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In patients undergoing cord blood transplantation (CBT), there is a negative correlation between volume of distribution of tacrolimus and hemoglobin levels, which reflect the red blood cell (RBC) count. In this study, we evaluated the influence of the conditioning regimen (myeloablative and reduced-intensity conditioning) or donor source (cord blood, bone marrow, and peripheral blood stem cells) on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in patients undergoing HSCT, including those undergoing CBT. We also examined applicability of dosing strategy of tacrolimus considering the RBC count.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We retrospectively analyzed clinical data—including whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations—from patients with HSCT. The observation period spanned from first continuous intravenous infusions until switch to oral medication, transfer to another hospital, relapse, or death. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations obtained from therapeutic drug monitoring during the observation period. Patient characteristics and laboratory data were evaluated as covariates.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>We enrolled 91 patients undergoing HSCT (CBT: <em>n</em> = 56; bone marrow transplantation: <em>n</em> = 22; and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation: <em>n</em> = 13); 58 and 33 patients received myeloablative conditioning and reduced-intensity conditioning, respectively. Whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations were accurately captured (<em>n</em> = 1,658 measurements) using a one-compartment and additive error model. The conditioning regimen and donor source did not have an impact on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus. Therefore, these factors were not considered when forming the dosing strategy. Nevertheless, a negative correlation between volume of distribution and hemoglobin level was confirmed, indicating that monitoring the RBC count is useful in assessing the dosing strategy.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>A tacrolimus dosing strategy that considers the variability in hemoglobin levels applies to all patients undergoing HSCT.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100775"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11788801/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143122229","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100771
Zi-Hao Duan MS , Chun-Yuan He MS , Jie Chen BS , Jun-Jie Jiang BS , Zhi-Xiang Zhu PhD , Jing Li MS , Fa-Cai Wang MD
Background
It is well-known that substandard serum valproic acid (VPA) concentrations may lead to treatment failure of epilepsy. However, there is still a lack of a quick method to predict whether a patient's serum VPA concentration will reach the standard.
Objective
The aims of this study were to investigate the factors leading to substandard serum VPA concentrations in Chinese patients with epilepsy and develop a related nomogram for risk prediction.
Methods
From January 2019 to March 2022, a total of 1143 serum VPA concentrations were collected from 630 hospitalized Chinese patients with epilepsy who were monitored by the Department of Pharmacy of Lu'an People's Hospital, and complete clinical data were collected from the corresponding patients for retrospective analysis. All monitored serum VPA concentrations were further divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort. For the training cohort, serum VPA concentrations below 50 µg/mL and between 50 and 100 µg/mL were classified into the subtherapeutic group and therapeutic group, respectively. The variables were selected from the clinical data, and differences between the variables of the subtherapeutic and therapeutic groups were analyzed. The influencing factors leading to substandard serum VPA concentrations were screened via logistic regression analysis, and the screened influencing factors were used to establish the nomogram prediction model.
Results
Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the daily dose per unit of body weight (mg/kg/d), route of administration, presence of hepatic lesions, hypoalbuminemia, and combination with carbapenems or barbiturates were independent factors influencing the occurrence of substandard serum VPA concentrations. On the basis of the results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis, a nomogram risk prediction model for substandard serum VPA concentration was established. The values of the C-index and internal verification results indicated that the nomogram model had good accuracy and discrimination. The decision curve revealed that the nomogram that predicted the risk of substandard serum VPA concentration had a greater net benefit value (ranging from 12% to 94%), indicating that the model had a wide prediction interval.
Conclusions
Our study established a nomogram risk prediction model for substandard serum VPA concentrations in Chinese patients with epilepsy, which can help doctors or patients control the serum VPA concentration within the target concentration range as soon as possible.
{"title":"A Clinical Nomogram for Predicting Substandard Serum Valproic Acid Concentrations in Chinese Patients With Epilepsy","authors":"Zi-Hao Duan MS , Chun-Yuan He MS , Jie Chen BS , Jun-Jie Jiang BS , Zhi-Xiang Zhu PhD , Jing Li MS , Fa-Cai Wang MD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100771","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100771","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>It is well-known that substandard serum valproic acid (VPA) concentrations may lead to treatment failure of epilepsy. However, there is still a lack of a quick method to predict whether a patient's serum VPA concentration will reach the standard.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The aims of this study were to investigate the factors leading to substandard serum VPA concentrations in Chinese patients with epilepsy and develop a related nomogram for risk prediction.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>From January 2019 to March 2022, a total of 1143 serum VPA concentrations were collected from 630 hospitalized Chinese patients with epilepsy who were monitored by the Department of Pharmacy of Lu'an People's Hospital, and complete clinical data were collected from the corresponding patients for retrospective analysis. All monitored serum VPA concentrations were further divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort. For the training cohort, serum VPA concentrations below 50 µg/mL and between 50 and 100 µg/mL were classified into the subtherapeutic group and therapeutic group, respectively. The variables were selected from the clinical data, and differences between the variables of the subtherapeutic and therapeutic groups were analyzed. The influencing factors leading to substandard serum VPA concentrations were screened via logistic regression analysis, and the screened influencing factors were used to establish the nomogram prediction model.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the daily dose per unit of body weight (mg/kg/d), route of administration, presence of hepatic lesions, hypoalbuminemia, and combination with carbapenems or barbiturates were independent factors influencing the occurrence of substandard serum VPA concentrations. On the basis of the results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis, a nomogram risk prediction model for substandard serum VPA concentration was established. The values of the C-index and internal verification results indicated that the nomogram model had good accuracy and discrimination. The decision curve revealed that the nomogram that predicted the risk of substandard serum VPA concentration had a greater net benefit value (ranging from 12% to 94%), indicating that the model had a wide prediction interval.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Our study established a nomogram risk prediction model for substandard serum VPA concentrations in Chinese patients with epilepsy, which can help doctors or patients control the serum VPA concentration within the target concentration range as soon as possible.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100771"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11783061/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143078876","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100765
María José Torres PhD , Juan Carlos Ríos PhD , Alexandra Valle MSc , Sebastián Indo PhD , Kevin Brockway GV MSc , Fernanda López-Moncada PhD , Mario Faúndez PhD , Enrique A. Castellón PhD , Héctor R. Contreras PhD
Background
Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process associated with tumor progression. The synthesis of LTB4 is mediated by leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H), and it binds to the receptors BLT1 and BLT2. Dysregulation in LTB4 production is linked to the development of various pathologies. Therefore, the identification or design of inhibitors of LTB4 synthesis or receptor antagonists represents an ongoing challenge. In this context, our laboratory previously demonstrated that alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) inhibits LTA4H. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of ALA on the expression of canonical EMT markers and the functional and tumorigenic capacities induced by LTB4 in A549 cells.
Methods
The expression of cPLA2, 5LOX, FLAP, LTA4H, BLT1, and LTB4 production in human adenocarcinomic alveolar basal epithelial A549 cells was assessed using Western blot, RT-qPCR, and ELISA, respectively. Subsequently, the expression of canonical EMT markers was evaluated by Western blot. Functional assays were performed to assess cell viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, and clonogenicity using MTT, Western blot, Transwell assays, and colony formation assays, respectively. Results were expressed as median with interquartile range (n≥3) and analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis or Tukey multiple comparisons tests.
Results
A549 cells express key proteins involved in LTB4 synthesis and receptor binding, including LTA4H and BLT1, and ALA inhibits the production of LTB4. Additionally, LTA4H and BLT1 were detected in lung adenocarcinoma tissue samples. LTB4 was found to induce EMT, whereas ALA treatment enhanced the expression of epithelial markers and reduced the expression of mesenchymal markers. Furthermore, ALA treatment resulted in a decrease in LTB4 levels and attenuated the functional and tumorigenic capacities of A549 cells, including their viability, migration, invasion, and clonogenic potential.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that ALA may offer therapeutic potential in the context of lung cancer, as it could be integrated into conventional pharmacological therapies to enhance treatment efficacy and mitigate the adverse effects associated with chemotherapy. Further studies are warranted to confirm the clinical applicability of ALA as an adjunctive treatment in lung cancer.
{"title":"Alpha-Lipoic Acid-Mediated Inhibition of LTB4 Synthesis Suppresses Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, Modulating Functional and Tumorigenic Capacities in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer A549 Cells","authors":"María José Torres PhD , Juan Carlos Ríos PhD , Alexandra Valle MSc , Sebastián Indo PhD , Kevin Brockway GV MSc , Fernanda López-Moncada PhD , Mario Faúndez PhD , Enrique A. Castellón PhD , Héctor R. Contreras PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100765","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100765","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Leukotriene B<sub>4</sub> (LTB<sub>4</sub>) plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process associated with tumor progression. The synthesis of LTB<sub>4</sub> is mediated by leukotriene A<sub>4</sub> hydrolase (LTA<sub>4</sub>H), and it binds to the receptors BLT<sub>1</sub> and BLT<sub>2</sub>. Dysregulation in LTB<sub>4</sub> production is linked to the development of various pathologies. Therefore, the identification or design of inhibitors of LTB<sub>4</sub> synthesis or receptor antagonists represents an ongoing challenge. In this context, our laboratory previously demonstrated that alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) inhibits LTA<sub>4</sub>H. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of ALA on the expression of canonical EMT markers and the functional and tumorigenic capacities induced by LTB<sub>4</sub> in A549 cells.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The expression of cPLA<sub>2</sub>, 5LOX, FLAP, LTA<sub>4</sub>H, BLT1, and LTB<sub>4</sub> production in human adenocarcinomic alveolar basal epithelial A549 cells was assessed using Western blot, RT-qPCR, and ELISA, respectively. Subsequently, the expression of canonical EMT markers was evaluated by Western blot. Functional assays were performed to assess cell viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, and clonogenicity using MTT, Western blot, Transwell assays, and colony formation assays, respectively. Results were expressed as median with interquartile range (n≥3) and analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis or Tukey multiple comparisons tests.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A549 cells express key proteins involved in LTB<sub>4</sub> synthesis and receptor binding, including LTA<sub>4</sub>H and BLT<sub>1</sub>, and ALA inhibits the production of LTB<sub>4</sub>. Additionally, LTA<sub>4</sub>H and BLT1 were detected in lung adenocarcinoma tissue samples. LTB<sub>4</sub> was found to induce EMT, whereas ALA treatment enhanced the expression of epithelial markers and reduced the expression of mesenchymal markers. Furthermore, ALA treatment resulted in a decrease in LTB<sub>4</sub> levels and attenuated the functional and tumorigenic capacities of A549 cells, including their viability, migration, invasion, and clonogenic potential.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>These findings suggest that ALA may offer therapeutic potential in the context of lung cancer, as it could be integrated into conventional pharmacological therapies to enhance treatment efficacy and mitigate the adverse effects associated with chemotherapy. Further studies are warranted to confirm the clinical applicability of ALA as an adjunctive treatment in lung cancer.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100765"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11731977/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143001711","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Patients with metabolic disorders benefit from using anthocyanins. Nevertheless, the findings drawn from extant trials remain contentious. Thus, this meta-analysis evaluated anthocyanin's effect on inflammatory biomarkers in patients with metabolic disorders.
Materials and Methods
We comprehensively searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL, from their inception to June 14, 2024.
Findings
A total of 11 randomized controlled clinical trials with 14 arms were analyzed. There was no significant effect of anthocyanin supplementation on interleukin (IL)-1β levels (standardized mean difference [SMD] = –0.01, 95% CI: –0.33, 0.31; P = 0.941, I2 = 62.4%, P = 0.031), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (SMD = –0.49, 95% CI: –1.07, 0.09; P = 0.098, I2 = 94.0%, P < 0.001) and IL-6 (SMD = –0.69, 95% CI: –1.45, 0.06; P = 0.073, I2 = 95.2%, P < 0.001), respectively. A significant between-study heterogeneity was identified, which was reduced when subgrouping by sample size, dosage, and study population. However, subgroup analysis showed that it might decrease TNF-α and IL-6 in patients with hypertension, and if the intervention lasted less than 12 weeks.
Conclusions
There was no significant impact of anthocyanin supplementation on IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6; however, it should be noted that the intervention has a decreasing impact on individuals with hypertension. Our observed effect sizes on IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 are not clinically important.
{"title":"The Effect of Anthocyanin Supplementation on Pro-Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients With Metabolic Disorders: A Grade-Assessed Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis","authors":"Fatemeh Babaee Kiadehi MSc , Pegah Samani MSc , Sanaz Barazandeh MSc , Pedram Pam MSc , Ali Hajipour MSc , Narges Goli MSc , Ali Asadi PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100772","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100772","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction and Aim</h3><div>Patients with metabolic disorders benefit from using anthocyanins. Nevertheless, the findings drawn from extant trials remain contentious. Thus, this meta-analysis evaluated anthocyanin's effect on inflammatory biomarkers in patients with metabolic disorders.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>We comprehensively searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL, from their inception to June 14, 2024.</div></div><div><h3>Findings</h3><div>A total of 11 randomized controlled clinical trials with 14 arms were analyzed. There was no significant effect of anthocyanin supplementation on interleukin (IL)-1β levels (standardized mean difference [SMD] = –0.01, 95% CI: –0.33, 0.31; <em>P</em> = 0.941, <em>I</em><sup>2</sup> = 62.4%, <em>P</em> = 0.031), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (SMD = –0.49, 95% CI: –1.07, 0.09; <em>P</em> = 0.098, <em>I</em><sup>2</sup> = 94.0%, <em>P</em> < 0.001) and IL-6 (SMD = –0.69, 95% CI: –1.45, 0.06; <em>P</em> = 0.073, <em>I</em><sup>2</sup> = 95.2%, <em>P</em> < 0.001), respectively. A significant between-study heterogeneity was identified, which was reduced when subgrouping by sample size, dosage, and study population. However, subgroup analysis showed that it might decrease TNF-α and IL-6 in patients with hypertension, and if the intervention lasted less than 12 weeks.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>There was no significant impact of anthocyanin supplementation on IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6; however, it should be noted that the intervention has a decreasing impact on individuals with hypertension. Our observed effect sizes on IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 are not clinically important.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100772"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143402896","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100766
Xiaoyan Kang MD , Ping Zhang DNP , Qing Xu MD , Zhengqun Feng MD , Bei Yin MD
Background
The escalating threat of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in intensive care unit (ICU) demands innovative management strategies to curb the rising infection rates and associated clinical challenges.
Objective
To assess the effectiveness of integrating the multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach with the SHEL (Software, Hardware, Environment, Liveware) model in reducing MDRO infections within ICU settings.
Methods
From January 2021 to April 2024, a prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted in the ICU of Nantong Fourth People's Hospital, enrolling 411 patients with MDRO infections. These patients were randomly assigned into 3 groups: the MDT group, the SHEL model group, and a combined group. The intervention lasted for 4 weeks, during which the effects on the MDRO detection rate, infection rate, health care staff's infection control execution scores, and the rationality of antibiotic use were assessed, aiming to determine the efficacy of each approach in managing MDROs in the ICU setting.
Results
The overall infection rate of MDROs in the ICU of our hospital from 2021 to 2024 was 60.18%, with sputum infection sources accounting for 68.37% of the total sources, making it the primary source of infection. The detection rate of MDROs in the combined group was significantly higher than that in the MDT and the SHEL groups, with the SHEL group having a higher detection rate than the MDT group (P < 0.05). The infection rate of MDROs in the combined group was significantly lower than that in both the MDT and the SHEL groups, with the SHEL group having a lower detection rate than the MDT group (P < 0.05). The implementation scores of the combination group in standard prevention, hand hygiene, antibiotic management, and isolation measures were significantly higher than those of the MDT and SHEL groups, with the SHEL group scoring higher than the MDT group (P < 0.05). The rational use of antibiotics in the combined group was also higher than in both the MDT and the SHEL groups, with the SHEL group having a higher level than the MDT group (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
The integrated MDT and SHEL model significantly reduced MDRO infections in ICU, improved health care workers' infection prevention and nursing quality, and promoted the appropriate use of antibiotics, advocating for its clinical application.
{"title":"Innovative Solutions for Multidrug-Resistant Organisms’ Infections in Intensive Care Unit: A Joint Efficacy Evaluation of Multidisciplinary Team and SHEL (Software, Hardware, Environment, Liveware) Model","authors":"Xiaoyan Kang MD , Ping Zhang DNP , Qing Xu MD , Zhengqun Feng MD , Bei Yin MD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100766","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100766","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The escalating threat of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in intensive care unit (ICU) demands innovative management strategies to curb the rising infection rates and associated clinical challenges.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To assess the effectiveness of integrating the multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach with the SHEL (Software, Hardware, Environment, Liveware) model in reducing MDRO infections within ICU settings.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>From January 2021 to April 2024, a prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted in the ICU of Nantong Fourth People's Hospital, enrolling 411 patients with MDRO infections. These patients were randomly assigned into 3 groups: the MDT group, the SHEL model group, and a combined group. The intervention lasted for 4 weeks, during which the effects on the MDRO detection rate, infection rate, health care staff's infection control execution scores, and the rationality of antibiotic use were assessed, aiming to determine the efficacy of each approach in managing MDROs in the ICU setting.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The overall infection rate of MDROs in the ICU of our hospital from 2021 to 2024 was 60.18%, with sputum infection sources accounting for 68.37% of the total sources, making it the primary source of infection. The detection rate of MDROs in the combined group was significantly higher than that in the MDT and the SHEL groups, with the SHEL group having a higher detection rate than the MDT group (<em>P</em> < 0.05). The infection rate of MDROs in the combined group was significantly lower than that in both the MDT and the SHEL groups, with the SHEL group having a lower detection rate than the MDT group (<em>P</em> < 0.05). The implementation scores of the combination group in standard prevention, hand hygiene, antibiotic management, and isolation measures were significantly higher than those of the MDT and SHEL groups, with the SHEL group scoring higher than the MDT group (<em>P</em> < 0.05). The rational use of antibiotics in the combined group was also higher than in both the MDT and the SHEL groups, with the SHEL group having a higher level than the MDT group (<em>P</em> < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The integrated MDT and SHEL model significantly reduced MDRO infections in ICU, improved health care workers' infection prevention and nursing quality, and promoted the appropriate use of antibiotics, advocating for its clinical application.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100766"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11731589/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143001756","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100767
Peijing Li MD , Qin Yao MD , Yuanyuan Wang MD , Xipeng Xu MD
Background
Immunosuppressive agents like cyclosporine have proven effective in some pediatric cases, although there are limited case reports considering potential risks such as secondary infections.
Objective
This study investigated the safety and efficacy of Cyclosporine A in children who did not respond to high-dose corticosteroids combined with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Methods
We reported four pediatric patients diagnosed with toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) received treatment at our institution. All patients were previously healthy children with a median age of 7 years, comprising three boys and one girl (Table 1). Epidermal exfoliation and vesicular lesions ranged from 32.5% to 54.5% of the body surface area (BSA). Despite the administration of treatment comprising high-dose corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), new cutaneous herpes continually emerged. This prompted a transition to cyclosporine treatment (3–5 mg/kg/d) administered in 1–2 oral doses.
Results
Lesions stopped progressing, and bullous lesions started epithelialization after 13–27 days of hospitalization. Cases 1 and 2 faced secondary bacterial and fungal infections, respectively, and their temperatures stabilized after administration of antibiotics. Cases 3 and 4 experienced fever again when the dosage of corticosteroids was tapered off, with no discernible evidence of infection. The patients’ temperatures normalized upon the continuation of cyclosporine therapy. Among the patients, three presented asymptomatic elevated serum amylase, one of which met the diagnostic criteria for acute pancreatitis. Two children showed mildly raised aminotransferases, with one experiencing mild coronary artery dilation, two contracted onychomadesis, and three developed corneal ulceration/keratitis and atretoblepharia, which eventually resolved after vigorous ophthalmologic treatment. None of the children had any permanent sequelae after being discharged from the hospital for six months.
Conclusions
Cyclosporine A is generally safe and effective for children who fail to respond to high-dose corticosteroids in combination with IVIG.
{"title":"Oral Cyclosporine Treatment for Four Pediatric Patients With Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis That Showed No Response to High-dose Corticosteroids in Combination With Intravenous Immunoglobulin: A Case Series","authors":"Peijing Li MD , Qin Yao MD , Yuanyuan Wang MD , Xipeng Xu MD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100767","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100767","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Immunosuppressive agents like cyclosporine have proven effective in some pediatric cases, although there are limited case reports considering potential risks such as secondary infections.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study investigated the safety and efficacy of Cyclosporine A in children who did not respond to high-dose corticosteroids combined with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We reported four pediatric patients diagnosed with toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) received treatment at our institution. All patients were previously healthy children with a median age of 7 years, comprising three boys and one girl (<span><span>Table 1</span></span>). Epidermal exfoliation and vesicular lesions ranged from 32.5% to 54.5% of the body surface area (BSA). Despite the administration of treatment comprising high-dose corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), new cutaneous herpes continually emerged. This prompted a transition to cyclosporine treatment (3–5 mg/kg/d) administered in 1–2 oral doses.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Lesions stopped progressing, and bullous lesions started epithelialization after 13–27 days of hospitalization. Cases 1 and 2 faced secondary bacterial and fungal infections, respectively, and their temperatures stabilized after administration of antibiotics. Cases 3 and 4 experienced fever again when the dosage of corticosteroids was tapered off, with no discernible evidence of infection. The patients’ temperatures normalized upon the continuation of cyclosporine therapy. Among the patients, three presented asymptomatic elevated serum amylase, one of which met the diagnostic criteria for acute pancreatitis. Two children showed mildly raised aminotransferases, with one experiencing mild coronary artery dilation, two contracted onychomadesis, and three developed corneal ulceration/keratitis and atretoblepharia, which eventually resolved after vigorous ophthalmologic treatment. None of the children had any permanent sequelae after being discharged from the hospital for six months.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Cyclosporine A is generally safe and effective for children who fail to respond to high-dose corticosteroids in combination with IVIG.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100767"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11733270/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143001800","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100768
Gang Ma MD , Song Zhang MD , Baozhong Yu MD
Background
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are highly prevalent diseases that constitute enormous public health problems. The efficacy of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in blood glucose control in T2DM patients with NAFLD has been established, but little is known about its effect on liver enzyme levels.
Objective
This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the influences of DPP-4 inhibitors on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in patients with T2DM and NAFLD.
Methods
To identify the relevant studies, we searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Wanfang Data, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Means differences in liver enzymes and metabolic outcomes were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model, with subgroup analyses by gender, age, area, follow-up duration, and type of DPP-4 inhibitor. Quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool.
Results
A total of 1323 patients from 16 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results of analysis of DPP-4 inhibitors showed that the mean difference was –6.19 (95% confidence interval [CI]: –9.45 to –2.92) for ALT and –5.17 (95% CI: –8.10 to –2.23) for AST; this effect was statistically significant from the placebo group which indicates the beneficial effect on liver enzymes. Subgroup analysis revealed that while there were no significant gender differences in enzyme reductions, individuals over 55 years old experienced more pronounced decreases in ALT. Notably, Asian studies showed significant reductions in liver enzymes, contrasting with the minor variations observed in Euramerican regions, and the effectiveness of DPP-4 inhibitors was particularly pronounced during shorter follow-up periods, with effects diminishing over time. Regarding secondary outcomes, there was a notable improvement in gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, with a mean reduction, and in HbA1c levels, indicating improved glycemic control. Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance levels also improved, reflecting better insulin sensitivity. Additionally, adverse event analysis confirmed that DPP-4 inhibitors were well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile.
Conclusions
DPP-4 inhibitors appear to enhance glycemic control and improve liver enzyme levels, suggesting a potentially effective therapeutic approach for managing T2DM/NAFLD and highlighting their broader metabolic benefits.
{"title":"Impact of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors on Aminotransferases Levels in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trial","authors":"Gang Ma MD , Song Zhang MD , Baozhong Yu MD","doi":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100768","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.curtheres.2024.100768","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are highly prevalent diseases that constitute enormous public health problems. The efficacy of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in blood glucose control in T2DM patients with NAFLD has been established, but little is known about its effect on liver enzyme levels.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the influences of DPP-4 inhibitors on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in patients with T2DM and NAFLD.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>To identify the relevant studies, we searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Wanfang Data, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Means differences in liver enzymes and metabolic outcomes were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model, with subgroup analyses by gender, age, area, follow-up duration, and type of DPP-4 inhibitor. Quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 1323 patients from 16 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results of analysis of DPP-4 inhibitors showed that the mean difference was –6.19 (95% confidence interval [CI]: –9.45 to –2.92) for ALT and –5.17 (95% CI: –8.10 to –2.23) for AST; this effect was statistically significant from the placebo group which indicates the beneficial effect on liver enzymes. Subgroup analysis revealed that while there were no significant gender differences in enzyme reductions, individuals over 55 years old experienced more pronounced decreases in ALT. Notably, Asian studies showed significant reductions in liver enzymes, contrasting with the minor variations observed in Euramerican regions, and the effectiveness of DPP-4 inhibitors was particularly pronounced during shorter follow-up periods, with effects diminishing over time. Regarding secondary outcomes, there was a notable improvement in gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, with a mean reduction, and in HbA1c levels, indicating improved glycemic control. Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance levels also improved, reflecting better insulin sensitivity. Additionally, adverse event analysis confirmed that DPP-4 inhibitors were well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>DPP-4 inhibitors appear to enhance glycemic control and improve liver enzyme levels, suggesting a potentially effective therapeutic approach for managing T2DM/NAFLD and highlighting their broader metabolic benefits.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10920,"journal":{"name":"Current Therapeutic Research-clinical and Experimental","volume":"102 ","pages":"Article 100768"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11741081/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143001750","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}