Current Drug Research Reviews最新文献

Introduction: Various inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, neuralgia, soft tissue injuries, and neuropathic pain, significantly affect daily quality of life. Among these, Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are the most common types, often leading to joint discomfort and reduced quality of life. Conventional treatments like NSAIDs, though effective for pain relief, are associated with adverse effects, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This review aims to highlight the potential role of herbal medicines in managing arthritis and reducing inflammation.

Methods: A review of studies was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, covering literature up to 2025. Experimental animal models like collagen-induced, CFA-induced, and carrageenan-induced arthritis in rats were considered. A total of 182 relevant articles were reviewed.

Results: Herbal formulations have been shown to reduce inflammatory cytokines such as TNF- α, IL-1, IL-10, and IL-18, while also minimizing oxidative stress and joint inflammation. These findings support their therapeutic application in inflammatory disorders.

Discussion: The review focuses on medicinal plants known for their anti-inflammatory and anti- arthritic activities, supported by both traditional usage and scientific evidence. Notable plantbased compounds discussed include curcumin, Terminalia chebula, and Moringa oleifera, all of which have shown promise in managing arthritis symptoms.

Conclusion: Despite regulatory and standardization challenges, herbal medicines demonstrate significant potential in treating arthritis. Their effectiveness in controlling inflammation and oxidative damage may lead to wider acceptance and use in future clinical practice.

Introduction: Butrin, a flavonoid glycoside derived from Butea monosperma, has garnered attention for its neuroprotective effects attributed to its multifaceted pharmacological profile. It modulates dopamine and norepinephrine levels and exhibits antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and mitochondrial-protective actions. These properties position butrin as a promising candidate for therapeutic intervention in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. This review consolidates mechanistic insights, preclinical evidence, and therapeutic perspectives of butrin to assess its potential clinical applicability in managing neurodegenerative disorders.

Methods: This review critically analyzes existing preclinical studies on the neuroprotective effects of butrin. Emphasis is placed on its mechanisms of action, including mitigation of oxidative stress, suppression of neuroinflammation, enhancement of neurotrophic factors, and preservation of mitochondrial integrity. Additionally, the review explores current limitations in clinical translation and evaluates emerging drug delivery strategies aimed at improving its therapeutic potential.

Results: Preclinical evidence indicates that butrin effectively counters excitotoxicity and protein aggregation, key pathological features of neurodegenerative disorders. It attenuates neuropathological processes and demonstrates synergistic effects when combined with other neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agents. Nonetheless, its poor bioavailability and limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier remain significant barriers to clinical application.

Discussion: Despite its promising pharmacological profile, the clinical translation of butrin is constrained by absorption challenges and suboptimal pharmacokinetics. Innovative strategies, such as nanocarrier-based delivery systems, drug repurposing, and combination therapies, may enhance its therapeutic efficacy. Addressing these limitations is crucial for advancing butrin from bench to bedside.

Conclusion: Butrin exhibits compelling neuroprotective properties supported by robust preclinical data. However, large-scale clinical trials are essential to validate its efficacy. Integrating advanced drug delivery systems and personalized medicine approaches may unlock its full potential in managing neurodegenerative diseases.

Introduction: The oral route is a preferred method for drug administration; however, lipophilic drugs often suffer from poor water solubility, significantly limiting their therapeutic effectiveness. Traditional approaches like complexation, micronization, and solid dispersion have been explored, but each comes with inherent limitations.

Methods: Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SEDDS) have emerged as a promising strategy to address solubility challenges. These systems incorporate drug molecules into a mixture of oils, surfactants, and cosolvents to enhance solubility. Ternary phase diagrams are frequently utilized to determine optimal component ratios for effective formulation.

Results: SEDDS maintain drugs in a solubilized form within gastrointestinal fluids and protect peptide drugs from enzymatic degradation-a common issue in conventional formulations. They also facilitate the formation of stable emulsions at the target site, enhancing drug absorption. Additionally, the ability of SEDDS to traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB) increases their applicability in treating neurological disorders.

Discussion: The findings emphasize the utility of SEDDS in overcoming the solubility and stability challenges faced by poorly water-soluble drugs. Their capacity to enhance drug absorption and protect bioactive molecules from degradation aligns with current efforts to improve oral drug delivery systems. However, formulation complexities and variability in in vivo performance remain areas requiring further investigation.

Conclusion: This review outlines the formulation strategies, characterization methods, and evaluation techniques for SEDDS, emphasizing their potential in enhancing the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, particularly those aimed at the central nervous system. SEDDS offer a promising platform for improving therapeutic outcomes across diverse clinical settings.

Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of interconnected metabolic risk factors such as central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Despite its rising prevalence and serious health consequences, metabolic syndrome remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, initially developed for T2DM management, have demonstrated promising therapeutic potential for addressing multiple components of metabolic syndrome. These drugs lower blood glucose levels by promoting glycosuria and exhibit additional benefits, including weight loss, reduced blood pressure, improved lipid profiles, and cardioprotective effects. The impact of SGLT-2 inhibitors on the five metabolic syndrome criteria listed by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III)-central obesity, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and fasting glucose levels-is evaluated in this narrative review, which combines results from metaanalyses and clinical trials. Reduced waist circumference, better lipid profiles, lower blood pressure, and improved glycaemic management are some of the main outcomes. Diuresis, natriuresis, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation are the processes that underlie these effects. Although SGLT-2 inhibitors have a good safety record, they can cause uncommon diabetic ketoacidosis and urinary tract infections, which can be avoided with careful management. The study highlights that more research is necessary to understand long-term effects, optimize dosing regimens, and assess real-world applicability. According to these findings, SGLT-2 inhibitors are essential therapies for managing metabolic syndrome holistically, and they hold great promise for lowering the disease's worldwide burden and related health hazards.

Numerous therapeutic and culinary species produce scopoletin, a coumarin that is essential for treating a wide range of illnesses as a curative and chemopreventive agent. Globally, chronic illnesses are regarded as a major public health concern. Atypical regulation of various signalling pathways is the primary cause of most of these illnesses, which include cancer, as well as cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological disorders. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyloid β (Aβ) peptide aggregates are deposited in the CNS, forming plaques. The investigation assessed the capacity of scopoletin to modify the disease to several AD-related factors. It activated the release of insulin in the β cell of the pancreas. Additionally, it has been noted that most currently approved treatments for these illnesses are mono-targeted and related to the development of chemoresistance, which limits their utility and prevents them from demonstrating prolonged efficacy. Conversely, the molecules originating from plants exhibit a multi-targeted nature, which has led to widespread interest in these phytochemicals due to their few adverse effects. The purpose of this review is to summarise the possible consequences of scopoletin. An outline of scopoletin pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity is given in this review. In addition, this chemical is non-toxic and has good pharmacokinetic properties, so more research in clinical settings is necessary to develop it as a possible medication. The findings from the investigation could aid in the prevention and management of illnesses as well as the understanding of the benefits of plants containing scopoletin.

Introduction: Achieving reliable anesthesia induction and rapid postoperative recovery are crucial aspects of animal research, particularly in small experimental animals. Thiopentone is still a widely used anesthetic drug, but its safety is a primary concern in delivering a safe dose to experimental animals. However, the use of thiopentone in combination with xylazine for surgical procedures in small experimental animals remains underexplored. Therefore, this study assesses the efficacy and safety of combining thiopentone and xylazine for inducing anesthesia and facilitating recovery in Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 6).

Methods: Several sedatives and anesthetic agents, with diazepam (A), thiopentone (B), and xylazine (C), were evaluated alone and in combinations (AB, AC, BC, ABC). Rectal temperature, pulse rate, onset of anesthesia, and sedation duration were recorded before and after the administration.

Results: Thiopentone (45 mg/kg) alone caused significant declines in vital parameters and mortality. However, the BC combination (thiopentone 35 mg/kg + xylazine 7 mg/kg) induced rapid and prolonged anesthesia without mortality, mitigating thiopentone-induced hypothermia, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. This combination was further validated in 24 rats undergoing stereotaxic surgery, demonstrating its effectiveness and safety.

Discussion: The results demonstrated that while thiopentone monotherapy led to significant adverse effects, including hypothermia, decreased pulse rate, and respiratory depression, the combination of thiopentone with xylazine, particularly at specific doses, showed promising outcomes in mitigating these side effects.

Conclusion: The data obtained from the present study suggest that a combination of thiopentone (35 mg/kg) with xylazine (7 mg/kg) may represent the optimal surgical dose for inducing surgical anesthesia in rats.

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) with antifouling properties offer a promising approach for enhancing ovarian cancer (OC) therapy. OC remains one of the deadliest gynecological malignancies due to late-stage diagnosis, high recurrence rates, and limited treatment efficacy. Conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy, often face challenges due to drug resistance and limited targeting ability. The development of SiNPs with antifouling capabilities aims to address these issues by improving drug delivery efficiency, reducing non-specific interactions, and enhancing biocompatibility. Functionalizing SiNPs with cancer-specific ligands or antibodies can further improve targeting and uptake by ovarian cancer cells while reducing the impact on healthy tissues. Additionally, the porous structure of SiNPs allows for the loading of multiple therapeutic agents, enabling combination therapies that can overcome drug resistance mechanisms. In order to overcome these constraints and enhance MSN efficacy in cancer theranostics, this study aims to highlight technical advancements, including tumor-specific, stimuli-responsive "smart" MSNs and multimodal MSN- based hybrid nanoplatforms. This review provides thorough knowledge about the role of mesoporous silica nanoparticles for the treatment of ovarian cancer, highlighting important areas for further study as well as the difficulties associated with this area. To possibly improve therapeutic results by offering more accurate and targeted theranostic methods, we want to highlight the vitality of MSN technology as well as the significance of recent research and developments in this area. Overall, antifouling SiNPs represent a versatile and effective platform for ovarian cancer treatment, with the potential to improve therapeutic outcomes and reduce side effects.

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), commonly referred to as primary liver cancer, is a malignant neoplasm that originates within the liver. Conventional treatment modalities frequently result in less than satisfactory outcomes, primarily attributed to the intricate physiological and pathological contexts. Compound Kushen Injection (CKI), formulated from the botanicals Sophora flavescens and Atractylodes macrocephala, is employed as a supplementary therapy in the treatment of advanced-stage malignant tumors, including HCC.

Objective: Our study combined network pharmacology, bioinformatics, GeneMANIA-based functional association (GMFA), and experimental validation to elucidate CKI's therapeutic targets and mechanisms.

Methods: STRING was used to build a protein-protein interaction network, and GO and KEGG analyses were performed with DAVID and ShinyGO on the overlapping targets of CKI and HCC. Hub targets were identified using CytoHubba and their clinical relevance was confirmed with GEPIA2. GMFA and TIMER assessed the functions of key hub genes. The findings were further verified through significant KEGG analysis, molecular docking, and experimental validation.

Results: 10 hub targets were identified for CKI against HCC and analyzed for their impact on HCC patient survival and gene expression. GMFA confirmed four key hub genes, and TIMER assessed the correlation between SRC expression and immune infiltration. Significant KEGG analysis highlighted SRC's role in cell proliferation and migration through the MMP/EGFRPI3K/ AKT pathway. Molecular docking showed interactions between SRC and desmethylanhydroicaritin or resokaempferol. Experiments in HepG2 cells confirmed CKI's inhibitory effect on tumor cells.

Conclusion: CKI's anti-HCC effects may be exerted by regulating SRC via active compounds desmethylanhydroicaritin and resokaempferol.

Introduction: Menopause is a natural physiological transition marked by hormonal changes that can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms, often impacting a woman's quality of life. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of herbal remedies as alternative or complementary options to conventional treatments, particularly hormone replacement therapy (HRT), in managing menopausal symptoms.

Methods: An extensive literature review was conducted, focusing on commonly used herbs such as black cohosh, red clover, Dong Quai, and chaste tree berry. The review assessed the phytoestrogenic and adaptogenic properties of these herbs, exploring their mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, safety profiles, and potential interactions. Comparisons were made with HRT and other conventional therapies. Non-hormonal pharmacological options and lifestyle interventions, including yoga and dietary changes, were also examined.

Results: Herbal remedies, particularly black cohosh and red clover, demonstrated moderate effectiveness in alleviating menopausal symptoms, attributed to their phytoestrogenic and adaptogenic actions. Clinical evidence supports their safety, though individual responses and drug interactions vary. Additionally, non-hormonal treatments and lifestyle modifications, such as yoga and dietary adjustments, contribute to symptom relief.

Discussion: The findings underscore the potential of herbal remedies as viable alternatives or adjuncts to HRT. While generally safe and moderately effective, the variability in individual response and the need for awareness of possible interactions are important considerations. Integrating herbal approaches with evidence-based medical practices may offer more personalized and holistic menopause care.

Conclusion: Herbal therapies present a promising, well-tolerated option for managing menopausal symptoms. When combined with conventional or lifestyle-based interventions, they broaden the spectrum of therapeutic choices available to women, enabling individualized, integrative care during menopause.

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is inhabited by an extensive range of microorganisms known as the human gut microbiota, which includes fungi, bacteria, viruses, algae, and parasites. Through its relationships with the host and other bacteria, this microbiota generates an intricate ecosystem that is essential to preserving human health. The gastrointestinal microbiota is necessary for many physiological functions, including immune system regulation, nutrition metabolism, vitamin synthesis, medication and xenobiotic processing, gut mucosal barrier integrity, and pathogen defense. An immune system's response to tissue damage or injury caused by infections, physical and chemical stress, immune system deviations, or genetic factors is inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a condition that is fueled by the activity of immune cells and has been linked with several diseases. While lifestyle adjustments, dietary alterations, and medicines are now used to reduce inflammation, these strategies frequently prove ineffective. Beyond the basics of nutrition, bioactive compounds (BCs), known as nutritional ingredients found in small quantities in foods and plant extracts, give additional benefits for health. Their anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-metabolic syndrome, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties make them an excellent choice for addressing a variety of GIT disorders. By adjusting inflammatory mediators, bioactive compounds can lessen the negative effects of inflammation. Although medications, dietary changes, and changes in behavior are now employed to lower inflammation, these tactics usually fail to succeed. BCs, occasionally referred to as nutritious elements present in trace amounts in foods and plant extracts, provide additional health benefits beyond the essentials of nutrition. Bioactive substances may reduce the adverse effects of inflammation by modifying mediators of inflammation.