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Search Results (681)

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Keywords = anti-aging medicine

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20 pages, 3876 KB  
Article
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Antibacterial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Activity Using Convolvulus arvensis
by Suzan Abdullah Al-Audah, Azzah Ibrahim Alghamdi, Sumayah I. Alsanie, Nadiyah M. Alabdalla, Amnah Alawdah, Norah Alenezi, Aisha AlShammari, Ibrahiem Taha, Ahmed Albarrag, Sumayah Aldakeel and Munirah Aldayel
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(3), 1210; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27031210 - 25 Jan 2026
Viewed by 55
Abstract
Due to the indiscriminate use of antimicrobial drugs in the treatment of infectious diseases, human pathogenic bacteria have developed resistance to many commercially available antibiotics. Medicinal plants such as Convolvulus arvensis represent a renewable resource for the development of alternative therapeutic agents. This [...] Read more.
Due to the indiscriminate use of antimicrobial drugs in the treatment of infectious diseases, human pathogenic bacteria have developed resistance to many commercially available antibiotics. Medicinal plants such as Convolvulus arvensis represent a renewable resource for the development of alternative therapeutic agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized from C. arvensis against two clinical antibiotic-resistant bacterial isolates. The pathogenic isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus MRSA and Escherichia coli ESBL using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized via a green synthesis approach, and their physicochemical properties were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, zeta potential, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The synthesized C. arvensis–AgNPs exhibited a surface plasmon resonance peak at 475 nm and predominantly spherical morphology with particle sizes ranging from 102.34 to 210.82 nm. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of O–H, C–O, C–N, C–H, and amide functional groups. The nanoparticles showed a zeta potential of −18.9 mV and an average hydrodynamic diameter of 63 nm. The antibacterial activity of the biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA and ATCC 29213) and E. coli (ESBL and ATCC 25922) using agar diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays. Inhibition zones ranged from 10 to 13 mm, with MIC and MBC values of 12.5–25 µg/mL and 25–50 µg/mL, respectively. In addition, the nanoparticles exhibited antioxidant activity (DPPH assay, IC50 = 0.71 mg/mL) and anti-inflammatory effects as determined by protein denaturation inhibition. No cytotoxic effects were observed in the MCF-7 cell line at the MIC level. These findings suggest that C. arvensis–AgNPs have potential as natural antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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20 pages, 1368 KB  
Review
A Review of Major Compounds in Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) Fruits and Leaves: Isolation, Purification, and Their Antiaging Effects
by Jayanta Kumar Patra, Han-Seung Shin and Gitishree Das
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020350 - 21 Jan 2026
Viewed by 146
Abstract
The bilberry is a low-growing plant native to northern Europe. It belongs to the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is essential in the local diets of some countries and is used as an herbal medicine to manage several ailments. Still, it is not used for [...] Read more.
The bilberry is a low-growing plant native to northern Europe. It belongs to the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is essential in the local diets of some countries and is used as an herbal medicine to manage several ailments. Still, it is not used for commercial farming in many countries. It has recently been known as a great source of naturally available bioactive compounds and colorants. Bilberry is a therapeutic fruit acknowledged for its rich flavonoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, phenolic acid, tocopherols, and vitamin content. It is one of the richest sources of natural anthocyanins. The polyphenolic compounds in bilberry provide abundant antioxidant content, which are supposed to be the vital bioactive compounds accountable for various health benefits. Even though bilberry is mostly promoted for eye care or vision improvement. It is also stated to promote antioxidant defense and lower oxidative stress, having antiaging, anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, antimicrobial effects, lowering blood glucose and other age-related diseases, etc. Reports suggest that apart from the fruit, the leaves of bilberry are equally rich in numerous bioactive compounds of medicinal importance. This current review offers valuable insights on bilberry fruits, leaves, and extracts, providing an inclusive assessment of their bioactive compound configuration, related biological prospects, and the extraction methodology of their major compounds. This review offers a summary of the existing information on the antiaging potential of bilberry fruits and leaves, and analytically reviews the outcome of clinical trials, with special attention towards its medicinal properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Diet and Nutrition on Aging and Age-Related Disorders)
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13 pages, 1005 KB  
Article
Can Coexisting Allergic Rhinitis in Patients with Severe Eosinophilic Asthma Be a Prognostic Factor for Efficacy of Biological Therapy? Analysis of Eosinophilic Involvement
by Edyta Jura-Szołtys, Joanna Glück, Ludger Klimek and Radosław Gawlik
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020587 - 11 Jan 2026
Viewed by 304
Abstract
Chronic rhinitis is induced by endotype-diverse inflammatory processes, which complicates effective therapeutic management. According to the current principles of personalized medicine, which also apply to the management of rhinological disorders, the best therapeutic results can be achieved after targeted treatment preceded by analysis [...] Read more.
Chronic rhinitis is induced by endotype-diverse inflammatory processes, which complicates effective therapeutic management. According to the current principles of personalized medicine, which also apply to the management of rhinological disorders, the best therapeutic results can be achieved after targeted treatment preceded by analysis of the patient’s endotype. Analysis of immune and cellular mechanisms allows for the use of biological treatment, and its effects provide new information on inflammatory processes in the nasal mucosa. The effects of biological treatment may be particularly interesting in the case of mixed endotypes, which pose a difficult therapeutic challenge. In eosinophilic asthma co-occurring with allergic rhinitis, as well as in eosinophilic asthma associated with non-allergic rhinitis, eosinophils represent a key effector cell population driving the underlying type 2-mediated inflammatory response. The aim of this study is to analyze the efficacy of anti-IL5 or anti-ILR5 therapy in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma and persistent allergic or non-allergic rhinitis. Methods: In this single-center real-life study, the authors analyzed the effects of biological treatment on rhinological symptoms in patients over the age of 18 with severe uncontrolled eosinophilic bronchial asthma with coexisting persistent allergic or non-allergic rhinitis treated with mepolizumab or benralizumab. In all patients, the otolaryngologist performed anterior rhinoscopy. Evaluation of rhinological symptoms and quality of life in patients treated with anti-IL5 or anti-IL5 therapy before and six months after biological treatment was performed using the TNSS and SNOT-22 scales. Results: In total, 67 patients with eosinophilic severe bronchial asthma were included in the study; among them 39 (58.2%) suffered from persistent allergic rhinitis and 28 (41.8%) suffered from chronic non-allergic rhinitis. After six months of treatment, higher absolute differences for SNOT and TNSS were observed in the persistent allergic rhinitis group. Conclusions: Biological treatment with mepolizumab and benralizumab may reduce the severity of rhinological symptoms in both endotypes of inflammation. However, higher therapeutic benefits were observed in patients with co-existing persistent allergic rhinitis. It was demonstrated that, in addition to IgE-mediated responses, the eosinophil represented an important component of the inflammatory reaction in allergic rhinitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology & Rheumatology)
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13 pages, 959 KB  
Article
Potential Cosmetic Applications of Dihydroartemisinin
by Yifan Zhao, Mo Chen, Ying Zheng, Le Zhu, Cui Wu, Yue Ma, Ya Zhao, Dong Zhang, Haidong Jia and Lan Yang
Molecules 2026, 31(2), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020228 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 245
Abstract
In recent years, active monomers derived from Chinese herbal medicine and their derivatives have attracted significant attention in the field of skincare product development. Artemisinin and its derivatives, including dihydroartemisinin (DHA), exhibit diverse pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, and antitumor effects, [...] Read more.
In recent years, active monomers derived from Chinese herbal medicine and their derivatives have attracted significant attention in the field of skincare product development. Artemisinin and its derivatives, including dihydroartemisinin (DHA), exhibit diverse pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, and antitumor effects, showing promising therapeutic potential in skin-related diseases. However, systematic studies on artemisinins in cosmetics are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the cosmetic potential of DHA by investigating its anti-aging, anti-hair loss, antibacterial, whitening, and anti-glycation activities. Results showed that DHA exhibits multiple biological activities: DHA exhibits anti-aging activity by promoting collagen I synthesis in HDF cell, exhibits anti-hair loss effect by modulating VEGF and DKK1 expression in DPC cell, exhibits antibacterial activity against Malassezia furfur, exhibits whitening activity by suppressing melanin synthesis, and exhibits anti-glycation activity by suppressing glycation reactions. Overall, with the broad biological activities, we believe that DHA holds encouraging promise in the cosmetics industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds in Cosmetic Applications)
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13 pages, 962 KB  
Article
Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Blocks for Patients with Clavicle Fracture in the Emergency Department
by Cheng-Chien Chen, En-Hsien Su, Hua Li, Kar Mun Cheong, Yung-Yi Cheng, Su Weng Chau, Yi-Kung Lee and Tou-Yuan Tsai
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020523 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 365
Abstract
Background: Opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for clavicle fracture pain management carry significant adverse effect and allergic reaction risks. This study assessed ultrasound-guided nerve block (USNB) efficacy for acute clavicle fracture pain in emergency department (ED) patients, providing an alternative to [...] Read more.
Background: Opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for clavicle fracture pain management carry significant adverse effect and allergic reaction risks. This study assessed ultrasound-guided nerve block (USNB) efficacy for acute clavicle fracture pain in emergency department (ED) patients, providing an alternative to NSAIDs and opioids with fewer adverse effects. Methods: This retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted in accordance with Methods of Medical Record Review Studies in Emergency Medicine Research guidelines. Adult patients (≥20 years) who presented to the ED with traumatic clavicle fractures between 1 January 2015 and 30 November 2023 were included. Of the 343 eligible patients, 12 received ultrasound-guided nerve blocks (USNB) and 331 received standard care. To improve exchangeability, 1:10 matching with replacement was performed according to patients’ characteristics, such as age, sex, initial pain score, and comorbidities. The primary outcome was pain relief, assessed via the pain intensity difference (PID) on the Numerical Rating Scale within 360 min post-intervention. Meaningful pain relief was defined as a PID ≥ 4. Secondary outcomes included rescue opioid use, ED length of stay, hospital length of stay, and USNB-associated complications, such as vascular puncture, nerve injury, or local anesthetic systemic toxicity. Data were analyzed using time-course, time-to-event (time to meaningful pain relief), and linear regression analyses. Results: A total of 12 patients in the USNB group and 85 matched patients in the standard care group were analyzed after baseline characteristics matching with replacement. Compared to standard care, USNB was associated with significantly greater pain relief (p < 0.001). In the time-to-event analysis, USNB led to a 3.41-fold faster achievement of meaningful pain relief compared with that achieved with standard care (HR = 3.41; 95% CI, 1.47–7.90; p = 0.004). No significant differences were observed between groups in rescue opioid use, ED length of stay, or hospital length of stay. No USNB-associated complication developed in the USNB group. Conclusions: In patients with traumatic clavicle fractures, USNB provides more rapid and sustained pain relief than standard analgesic care in the ED, without increasing the ED length of stay. Large prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Trauma Care and Emergency Medicine)
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37 pages, 2753 KB  
Review
Osteoporosis After Menopause and After Drug Therapy: The Molecular Mechanism of Bone Loss and Its Treatment
by Kelly I-Rong Lee, Jie-Hong Chen and Kuo-Hu Chen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 641; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020641 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 509
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a prevalent skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration, leading to increased fracture risk, particularly in aging populations. Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) remains the most common primary form and results from abrupt estrogen deficiency after menopause, which disrupts bone [...] Read more.
Osteoporosis is a prevalent skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration, leading to increased fracture risk, particularly in aging populations. Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) remains the most common primary form and results from abrupt estrogen deficiency after menopause, which disrupts bone remodeling by accelerating the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-mediated osteoclastogenesis, suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and promoting inflammatory cytokine production. In contrast, drug-induced osteoporosis (DIOP) encompasses a heterogeneous group of secondary bone disorders arising from pharmacologic exposures. Glucocorticoids suppress osteoblastogenesis, enhance osteoclast activity, and increase reactive oxygen species; long-term bisphosphonate therapy may oversuppress bone turnover, resulting in microdamage accumulation; denosumab withdrawal triggers a unique rebound surge in RANKL activity, often leading to rapid bone loss and multiple vertebral fractures. Medications including aromatase inhibitors, SSRIs, proton pump inhibitors, heparin, and antiepileptic drugs impair bone quality through diverse mechanisms. Standard antiresorptive agents remain first-line therapies, while anabolic agents such as teriparatide, abaloparatide, and romosozumab provide enhanced benefits in high-risk or drug-suppressed bone states. Transitional bisphosphonate therapy is essential when discontinuing denosumab, and individualized treatment plans—including drug holidays, lifestyle interventions, and monitoring vulnerable patients—are critical for optimizing outcomes. Emerging approaches such as small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapeutics, anti-sclerostin agents, digital monitoring technologies, and regenerative strategies show promise for future precision medicine management. Understanding the distinct and overlapping molecular mechanisms of osteoporosis is essential for improving fracture prevention and long-term skeletal health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Osteoporosis: From Molecular Research to Novel Therapies)
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14 pages, 680 KB  
Review
Liver Fibrosis: Current Treatments, Bottlenecks, and Future Prospects for Translational Medicine
by Dileep G. Nair and Ralf Weiskirchen
Sci 2026, 8(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci8010009 - 7 Jan 2026
Viewed by 323
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a common pathological result of chronic hepatic injury caused by various factors, such as viral hepatitis, alcohol-induced liver disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). It is characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which disrupts the architecture of the [...] Read more.
Liver fibrosis is a common pathological result of chronic hepatic injury caused by various factors, such as viral hepatitis, alcohol-induced liver disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). It is characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which disrupts the architecture of the liver and can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Globally, nearly 10% of the population has significant fibrosis, with its prevalence increasing with age, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Despite its significant clinical impact, early detection of liver fibrosis is still limited due to insufficient diagnostic technologies and low public awareness. The increasing burden of MASH emphasizes the urgent need for scalable therapeutic strategies. Currently, liver transplantation is the only definitive treatment, but it is limited by donor shortages and the need for lifelong immunosuppression. However, fibrosis is now recognized as a dynamic and potentially reversible process if the underlying cause is addressed. This shift in understanding has prompted efforts to develop pharmacological agents that target hepatic stellate cell activation, immune system interactions, and metabolic dysfunction. Advances in organoid platforms, multi-omics, and non-invasive diagnostics are accelerating translational research in this area. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge about the molecular drivers of fibrosis, bottlenecks in the current anti-fibrotic drug discovery process, and emerging therapeutic approaches to inform precision medicine strategies and reduce the global burden of chronic liver disease. Full article
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14 pages, 250 KB  
Article
Concordance Between the Multidisciplinary Team and ChatGPT-4o Decisions: A Blinded, Cross-Sectional Concordance Study in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases
by Firdevs Ulutaş, Göksel Altınışık, Gülay Güngör, Vefa Çakmak, Nilüfer Yiğit, Duygu Herek, Murat Yiğit, Uğur Karasu and Veli Çobankara
Diagnostics 2026, 16(1), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16010113 - 30 Dec 2025
Viewed by 390
Abstract
Background/Objective: In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has gained increasing prominence in the fields of diagnostic decision-making in medicine. The aim of this study was to compare multidisciplinary team (MDT: rheumatology, pulmonology, thoracic radiology) decisions with single-session plans generated by ChatGPT-4o. Methods: In [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has gained increasing prominence in the fields of diagnostic decision-making in medicine. The aim of this study was to compare multidisciplinary team (MDT: rheumatology, pulmonology, thoracic radiology) decisions with single-session plans generated by ChatGPT-4o. Methods: In this cross-sectional concordance study, adults (≥18 years) with confirmed systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD) and having MDT decisions within the last 6 months were included. The study documented diagnostic, treatment, and monitoring decisions in cases of SARDs by recording answers to six essential questions: (1) What is the most likely clinical diagnosis? (2) What is the most likely radiological diagnosis? (3) Is there a need for anti-inflammatory treatment? (4) Is there a need for antifibrotic treatment? (5) Is drug-free follow-up appropriate? and (6) Are additional investigations required? Consequently, all evaluations were performed with ChatGPT-4o in a single-session format using a standardized single-prompt template, with the system blinded to MDT decisions. All data analyses in this study were conducted using the R programming language (version 4.3.2). An agreement between AI-generated and MDT decisions was assessed using Cohen’s Kappa (κ) statistic where κ (kappa) values represent the level of agreement: <0.20 = slight, 0.21–0.40 = fair, 0.41–0.60 = moderate, 0.61–0.80 = substantial, >0.80 = almost perfect agreement. These analyses were performed using the irr and psych packages in R. Statistical significance of the models was evaluated through p-values, while overall model fit was assessed using the Likelihood Ratio Test. Results: A total of 47 patients were involved in this study, with a predominance of female patients (61.70%, n = 29). The mean age was 61.74 ± 10.40 years. The most frequently observed diagnosis was rheumatoid arthritis (RA), accounting for 31.91% of cases (n = 15). This was followed by cases of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis, interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (IPAF), and sarcoidosis. The analyses indicate a statistically significant level of agreement across all decision types. For clinical diagnosis decisions, agreement was moderate (κ = 0.52), suggesting that the AI system can reach partially consistent conclusions in diagnostic processes. The need for an immunosuppressive treatment and follow-up without medication decisions demonstrated a higher level of concordance, reaching the moderate-to-high range (κ = 0.64 and κ = 0.67, respectively). For antifibrotic treatment decisions, agreement was moderate (κ = 0.49), while radiological diagnosis decisions also fell within the moderate range (κ = 0.55). The lowest agreement—though still moderate—was observed in further investigation required decisions (κ = 0.45). Conclusions: In patients with SARDs with pulmonary involvement, particularly in complex cases, concordance was observed between MDT decisions and AI-generated recommendations regarding prioritization of clinical and radiologic diagnoses, treatment selection, suitability for drug-free follow-up, and the need for further diagnostic investigations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Generative AI and Digital Twins in Diagnostics)
18 pages, 6052 KB  
Article
Protective Effect of Peony (Paeonia ostii) Flower Extract Against Tape Stripping-Induced Skin Barrier Impairment in Mice
by Ruiying Yang, Jicheng Yang, Gaiying He, Yusheng Zhang, Xue Jiang, Jiyong Wang, Hongjun Yang and Chengxiang Shang
Molecules 2026, 31(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31010062 - 24 Dec 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
Background: Skin barrier dysfunction leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), inflammation, and compromised skin protection. While Paeonia ostii (peony) flowers are recognized in traditional Chinese medicine for their reducing melanin synthesis, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects, their role in repairing skin barrier damage [...] Read more.
Background: Skin barrier dysfunction leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), inflammation, and compromised skin protection. While Paeonia ostii (peony) flowers are recognized in traditional Chinese medicine for their reducing melanin synthesis, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects, their role in repairing skin barrier damage has not been fully explored. Methods: We investigated the therapeutic potential of peony flower extract (PFE) in the tape-stripping-induced mouse model with skin barrier damage. Skin surface imaging, hydration measurements, H&E, proteomics, qPCR, and immunofluorescence were applied to clarify the potential mechanism of PFE in attenuating skin barrier impairment. Results: PFE significantly reduced erythema, TEWL, and edema while restoring epidermal architecture. Proteomics analysis identified cornified envelope formation and tight junction assembly as essential mechanisms in skin barrier repair. It increased the expression of key skin barrier proteins, including filaggrin (Flg), involucrin (Ivl), loricrin (Lor), claudin-1 (Cldn1), tight junction protein 1 (Tjp1), and occludin (Ocln). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that PFE restores skin barrier integrity by upregulating key structural proteins within the cornified envelope and tight junction. These findings suggest that PFE is a promising therapeutic candidate for skin barrier repair, with high potential in translational medicine applications. Full article
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29 pages, 789 KB  
Systematic Review
Opuntia dillenii as a Nutraceutical and Dietary Resource for Disease Prevention and Management: A Systematic Review
by Nisa Buset-Ríos, Mussa Makran and Ruymán Santana-Farré
Nutrients 2025, 17(24), 3915; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243915 - 14 Dec 2025
Viewed by 540
Abstract
Background: Chronic diseases are leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and their prevalence is increasing due to aging and lifestyle factors. A central element in their pathophysiology is chronic low-grade inflammation, linking metabolic, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and proliferative disorders. In this context, Opuntia [...] Read more.
Background: Chronic diseases are leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and their prevalence is increasing due to aging and lifestyle factors. A central element in their pathophysiology is chronic low-grade inflammation, linking metabolic, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and proliferative disorders. In this context, Opuntia dillenii, a cactus species traditionally used in folk medicine, has attracted considerable scientific interest due to its promising nutraceutical potential. Methods: This systematic review was conducted through a PRISMA-guided literature search using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, identifying 45 studies that analyze the phytochemical composition and biological activity of O. dillenii. Results: The compounds highlighted include betalains, polyphenols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides that exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects by modulating key inflammatory mediators. In addition, O. dillenii demonstrates antiproliferative activity, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor growth in various in vivo models, suggesting a potential role in cancer prevention and as a complementary therapy. The cactus also exhibits antiatherogenic and hypotensive effects, as well as hypolipidemic and antidiabetic properties by improving lipid profiles, reducing serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, its protective actions against tissue damage extend its therapeutic potential. Antimicrobial properties have also been reported, reinforcing its value as a functional food. Conclusions: Taken together, the evidence supports the use of O. dillenii as a versatile nutraceutical resource with a low toxicity profile, capable of contributing to the prevention and treatment of various chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases. Nevertheless, human clinical trials are needed to validate these findings and explore their full therapeutic utility. Full article
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21 pages, 2516 KB  
Article
Neuroprotective Effect of Fresh Gac Fruit Parts Against β-Amyloid-Induced Toxicity and Its Influence on Synaptic Gene Expression in HT-22 Cell Model
by Asif Ali, Chih-Li Lin and Chin-Kun Wang
Molecules 2025, 30(24), 4767; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30244767 - 13 Dec 2025
Viewed by 457
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) have emerged as a significant global health crisis, disproportionately affecting the aging population. As longevity increases, the incidence, healthcare costs, and caregiver burden associated with NDs are escalating at an alarming rate. As of recent data, NDs such as Alzheimer’s [...] Read more.
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) have emerged as a significant global health crisis, disproportionately affecting the aging population. As longevity increases, the incidence, healthcare costs, and caregiver burden associated with NDs are escalating at an alarming rate. As of recent data, NDs such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are not only significant health burdens but also reflect a complex interplay between socio-economic factors and healthcare systems worldwide. Gac fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis) is a rich source of bioactive compounds that has been used as food and traditional medicine. Gac fruit ameliorates memory deficits, enhances beta amyloid (Aβ)1–42 clearance, and induces neurite outgrowth. In this study, we examined the anti-neurodegenerative and synaptic improvement effect of fresh gac fruit parts extracts (FGPEs) produced from different solvents. Results showed that the 80% ethanol extract of peel (PE-EtOH) and ethyl acetate extract of seed (SE-EtOAc) significantly protected HT-22 cells by attenuating Aβ-induced cell death, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial dysfunction, and synaptic dysfunction. PE-EtOH protected synaptic functions by significantly increasing the postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) and reducing the neurexin 2 mRNA expression. In contrast, SE-EtOAc increased the PSD-95 and neurexin 3 and reduced the neurexin 2 expressions. These findings indicate that PE-EtOH and SE-EtOAc could have great potential in ameliorating Aβ-induced toxicity in an HT-22 cell model. Full article
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16 pages, 2477 KB  
Article
Influence of Stress-Induced Senescence on the Secretome of Primary Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
by Daria Kashirina, Diana Matveeva, Mariia Ezdakova, Alexander Brzhozovskiy, Alexey Kononikhin, Ludmila Pastushkova, Irina Larina, Evgeny Nikolaev, Ludmila Buravkova and Andrey Ratushnyy
Biomolecules 2025, 15(12), 1734; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15121734 - 13 Dec 2025
Viewed by 545
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutic agents, largely due to their capacity for self-renewal, differentiation, and immunomodulation. Importantly, these beneficial effects are frequently mediated by the MSC secretome, which contains factors with anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and pro-regenerative properties. However, cellular senescence can impair [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutic agents, largely due to their capacity for self-renewal, differentiation, and immunomodulation. Importantly, these beneficial effects are frequently mediated by the MSC secretome, which contains factors with anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and pro-regenerative properties. However, cellular senescence can impair these critical functions. To identify senescence-associated changes in the MSC secretome that may regulate aging and intercellular communication, we performed a mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis of the conditioned medium from MSCs undergoing stress-induced senescence. Our analysis confirmed the upregulation of established aging markers, such as IL-6, PAI-1, and IGFBP7. Furthermore, we identified a significant increase in lesser-known senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) components, including INHBA—a known inhibitor of proliferation—and DKK3, which blocks stromal cell pluripotency. Pathway analysis revealed that stress-induced senescence broadly affected proteins involved in glycolysis, immune response, hemostasis, and the regulation of cell death and the cell cycle. These alterations are likely to negatively impact the MSC microenvironment. Interestingly, the cellular response to senescence was dualistic. Alongside detrimental SASP factors, we observed an increase in protective proteins such as annexins (ANXA1, ANXA2), antioxidants (TXN, PRDX1, PRDX6), and the heat shock protein HSPB1, which collectively defend neighboring cells from inflammation and oxidative stress. These findings underscore the complex etiology of cellular senescence and the paradoxical nature of the SASP. The obtained data also emphasize the necessity of comprehensive proteomic profiling of the MSC secretome across different aging models to harness the full therapeutic potential of MSCs and their secretomes for regenerative medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomacromolecules: Proteins, Nucleic Acids and Carbohydrates)
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25 pages, 3086 KB  
Article
Development and Functional Characterization of Recombinant Mussel Adhesive Protein for Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Aging Therapeutic Applications
by Suhan Wi, Seon-A Lim, Jin-Yeong Jung, Hyungmo Yang, Sun-Ae Lee, Kyounghun Choi, Ju-Ryeong Kim, Moo-Hak Lim, Yong-Hyun Kim, Jaehong Park, SeongMin Ha and Yun Heo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 11947; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262411947 - 11 Dec 2025
Viewed by 556
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well-known as major contributors to skin aging, and the application of antioxidants to suppress ROS has been increasingly emphasized in the field of cosmetics. Traditionally, plant-derived or synthetic antioxidants have been predominantly used. More recently, antioxidant, anti-aging, and [...] Read more.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well-known as major contributors to skin aging, and the application of antioxidants to suppress ROS has been increasingly emphasized in the field of cosmetics. Traditionally, plant-derived or synthetic antioxidants have been predominantly used. More recently, antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory effects of mussel extracts or mussel-derived hydrolysates have also been explored and proposed for cosmetic applications. However, there is still a lack of scientific research on the antioxidant and anti-aging effects of specific mussel foot proteins, particularly engineered recombinant proteins such as NGT-M001 (hybrid fp-151). Natural mussel adhesive proteins are characterized by an amino acid composition rich in tyrosine and catechol groups such as DOPA, which are believed to possess potent antioxidant activity. In this study, we quantitatively evaluated the antioxidant and anti-aging properties of a recombinant mussel adhesive protein (rMAP) lacking DOPA modification, and a rationally designed protein, NGT-M001. Antioxidant activity was assessed using ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging assays, while anti-aging potential was evaluated through collagenase and hyaluronidase inhibition assays. In the ABTS assay, the antioxidant capacity per molar unit of NGT-M001 was 27.76-fold higher than that of Trolox. NGT-M002 (pvFP-5), NGT-M003 (pvFP-5 fragment) and NGT-M004 (FP-1 fragment) exhibited 9.08-fold, 2.84-fold, and 8.54-fold higher activities, respectively. In the DPPH assay, NGT-M001 and NGT-M004 were not detected, whereas NGT-M002 and NGT-M003 showed 3.45-fold and 1.59-fold higher activity than Trolox, respectively. These findings suggest that recombinant mussel adhesive proteins such as NGT-M001 exhibit antioxidant activity and may serve as promising next-generation bioactive ingredients for functional medicine and cosmetic applications to improve skin health and radical scavenging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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33 pages, 2141 KB  
Review
From Elixirs to Geroscience: A Historical and Molecular Perspective on Anti-Aging Medicine
by Giuseppe Rosario Pietro Nicoletti, Katia Mangano, Ferdinando Nicoletti and Eugenio Cavalli
Molecules 2025, 30(24), 4728; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30244728 - 10 Dec 2025
Viewed by 2944
Abstract
The pursuit of youth and longevity has accompanied human societies for millennia, evolving from mythological and esoteric traditions toward a scientific understanding of aging. Early concepts such as Greek ambrosia, Taoist elixirs, and medieval “aqua vitae” reflected symbolic or spiritual interpretations. A major [...] Read more.
The pursuit of youth and longevity has accompanied human societies for millennia, evolving from mythological and esoteric traditions toward a scientific understanding of aging. Early concepts such as Greek ambrosia, Taoist elixirs, and medieval “aqua vitae” reflected symbolic or spiritual interpretations. A major conceptual transition occurred between the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, when aging began to be framed as a biological process. Pioneering ideas by Metchnikoff, together with early and sometimes controversial attempts such as Voronoff’s grafting experiments, marked the first efforts to rationalize aging scientifically. In the mid-twentieth century, discoveries including the Hayflick limit, telomere biology, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction established gerontology as an experimental discipline. Contemporary geroscience integrates these insights into a coherent framework linking cellular pathways to chronic disease risk. Central roles are played by nutrient-sensing networks such as mTOR, AMPK, and sirtuins, together with mitochondrial regulation, proteostasis, and cellular senescence. Interventions, including caloric restriction, fasting-mimicking diets, rapalogues, sirtuin activators, metformin, NAD+ boosters, senolytics, and antioxidant combinations such as GlyNAC, show consistent benefits across multiple model organisms, with early human trials reporting improvements in immune function, mitochondrial activity, and biomarkers of aging. Recent advances extend to epigenetic clocks, multi-omic profiling, gender-specific responses, and emerging regenerative and gene-based approaches. Overall, the evolution from historical elixirs to molecular geroscience highlights a shift toward targeting aging itself as a modifiable biological process and outlines a growing translational landscape aimed at extending healthspan and reducing age-related morbidity. Full article
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46 pages, 2441 KB  
Review
A State-of-the-Art Overview on (Epi)Genomics and Personalized Skin Rejuvenating Strategies
by Roxana-Georgiana Tauser, Ioana-Mirela Vasincu, Andreea-Teodora Iacob, Maria Apotrosoaei, Bianca-Ștefania Profire, Florentina-Geanina Lupascu, Oana-Maria Chirliu and Lenuta Profire
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(12), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17121585 - 9 Dec 2025
Viewed by 1209
Abstract
This article aims to point out new perspectives opened by genomics and epigenomics in skin rejuvenation strategies which target the main hallmarks of the ageing. In this respect, this article presents a concise overview on: the clinical relevance of the most important clocks [...] Read more.
This article aims to point out new perspectives opened by genomics and epigenomics in skin rejuvenation strategies which target the main hallmarks of the ageing. In this respect, this article presents a concise overview on: the clinical relevance of the most important clocks and biomarkers used in skin anti-ageing strategy evaluation, the fundamentals, the main illustrating examples preclinically and clinically tested, the critical insights on knowledge gaps and future research perspectives concerning the most relevant skin anti-ageing and rejuvenation strategies based on novel epigenomic and genomic acquisitions. Thus the review dedicates distinct sections to: senolytics and senomorphics targeting senescent skin cells and their senescent-associated phenotype; strategies targeting genomic instability and telomere attrition by stimulation of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) repair enzymes and proteins essential for telomeres’ recovery and stability; regenerative medicine based on mesenchymal stem cells or cell-free products in order to restore skin-resided stem cells; genetically and chemically induced skin epigenetic partial reprogramming by using transcription factors or epigenetic small molecule agents, respectively; small molecule modulators of DNA methylases, histone deacetylases, telomerases, DNA repair enzymes or of sirtuins; modulators of micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA) and long-non-coding ribonucleic acid (HOTAIR’s modulators) assisted or not by CRISPR-gene editing technology (CRISPR: Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats); modulators of the most relevant altered nutrient-sensing pathways in skin ageing; as well as antioxidants and nanozymes to address mitochondrial dysfunctions and oxidative stress. In addition, some approaches targeting skin inflammageing, altered skin proteostasis, (macro)autophagy and intercellular connections, or skin microbiome, are very briefly discussed. The review also offers a comparative analysis among the newer genomic/epigenomic-based skin anti-ageing strategies vs. classical skin rejuvenation treatments from various perspectives: efficacy, safety, mechanism of action, evidence level in preclinical and clinical data and regulatory status, price range, current limitations. In these regards, a concise overview on senolytic/senomorphic agents, topical nutrigenomic pathways’ modulators and DNA repair enzymes, epigenetic small molecules agents, microRNAs and HOTAIRS’s modulators, is illustrated in comparison to classical approaches such as tretinoin and peptide-based cosmeceuticals, topical serum with growth factors, intense pulsed light, laser and microneedling combinations, chemical peels, botulinum toxin injections, dermal fillers. Finally, the review emphasizes the future research directions in order to accelerate the clinical translation of the (epi)genomic-advanced knowledge towards personalization of the skin anti-ageing strategies by integration of individual genomic and epigenomic profiles to customize/tailor skin rejuvenation therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Opportunities in Drug Delivery Research)
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