Search Results (2,471)

Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside of the uterine corpus, often clinically presenting with pain and/or infertility. Ectopic lesions exhibit features characteristic of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process in which epithelial cells lose polarity and acquire mesenchymal traits, including migratory and invasive capabilities. During the process of EMT, epithelial traits are downregulated, while mesenchymal traits are acquired, with cells developing migratory ability, increasing proliferation, and resistance to apoptosis. EMT is promoted by exposure to hypoxia and stimulation by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and estradiol. Signaling pathways that promote EMT are activated in most ectopic lesions and involve transcription factors such as Snail, Slug, ZEB-1/2, and TWIST-1/2. EMT-specific molecules present in the serum of women with endometriosis appear to have diagnostic potential. Strategies targeting EMT in animal models of endometriosis have demonstrated regression of ectopic lesions, opening the door for novel therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of EMT in endometriosis and highlights potential targets for EMT-related diagnosis and therapeutic interventions. Full article

The unique properties of phthalocyanines (Pcs), such as strong absorption, high photostability, effective singlet oxygen generation, low toxicity and biocompatibility, versatile chemical modifications, broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, and synergistic effects with other treatment modalities, make them a preferred superior sensitizer in the field of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy. The photodynamic and sonodynamic activity of 3-(3-(diethylamino)phenoxy)propanoxy substituted silicon(IV) Pc were evaluated against bacteria and cancer cells. Stability and singlet oxygen generation upon light irradiation and ultrasound (1 MHz, 3 W) were assessed with 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran. The phthalocyanine revealed high photostability in DMF and DMSO, although the singlet oxygen yields under light irradiation were low. On the other hand, the phthalocyanine revealed excellent sonostability and caused a high rate of DPBF degradation upon excitation by ultrasounds at 1 MHz. The silicon phthalocyanine presented significant bacterial reduction growth, up to 5 log against MRSA and S. epidermidis upon light excitation, whereas the sonodynamic effect was negligible. The phthalocyanine revealed high activity in both photodynamic and sonodynamic manner toward hypopharyngeal tumor (FaDu, 95% and 42% reduction, respectively) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC-25, 96% and 62% reduction, respectively). The sensitizer showed ca. 30% aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibition in various concentrations and up to 85% platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase for 0.25 μM, while protease-activated protein C was stimulated up to 66% for 0.75 μM. Full article

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is widely applied in veterinary regenerative medicine due to its rich composition of growth factors that promote tissue repair. However, the direct pro-angiogenic function of canine PRP (cPRP) has not been thoroughly validated through controlled in vitro and in vivo experimentation. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to assess cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation after exposure to cPRP. In addition, a rabbit corneal micropocket assay was employed to evaluate in vivo angiogenic responses. Treatment with 20% cPRP significantly enhanced HUVEC proliferation and migration and induced robust tube formation. In the in vivo model, we observed dose-dependent neovascularization, with the earliest vascular sprouting seen on day 1 in the 40% group. Both models consistently demonstrated that cPRP stimulates vascular development in a concentration-dependent manner. This study provides novel evidence of cPRP’s capacity to induce neovascularization, supporting its therapeutic value for treating nonhealing wounds in dogs, especially in cases involving chronic inflammation, aging, or immune dysregulation. These findings offer a scientific foundation for the broader clinical application of cPRP in veterinary regenerative practice. Full article

Refractory full-thickness macular holes (rFTMHs) present a significant challenge in vitreoretinal surgery, with reported incidence rates of 4.2–11.2% following standard vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and gas tamponade. Risk factors include large hole size (>400 µm), chronicity (>6 months), high myopia, incomplete ILM peeling, and post-operative noncompliance. Multiple surgical techniques exist, though comparative evidence remains limited. Current options include the inverted ILM flap technique, autologous ILM transplantation (free flap or plug), lens capsular flap transplantation (autologous or allogenic), preserved human amniotic membrane transplantation, macular subretinal fluid injection, macular fibrin plug with autologous platelet concentrates, and autologous retinal transplantation. Closure rates range from 57.1% to 100%, with selection depending on hole size, residual ILM, patient posturing ability, etc. For non-posturing patients, fibrin plugs are preferred. Residual ILM cases may benefit from extended peeling or flap techniques, while large holes often require scaffold-based (lens capsule, amniotic membrane) or fibrin plug approaches. Pseudophakic patients should avoid posterior capsular flaps due to lower success rates. Despite promising outcomes, the lack of randomized trials necessitates further research to establish evidence-based guidelines. Personalized surgical planning, considering anatomical and functional goals, remains crucial in optimizing visual recovery in rFTMHs. Full article

Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers, botulinum toxin injections, autologous fat grafting, intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments, are increasingly popular worldwide due to their convenience and aesthetic benefits. While generally considered safe, these procedures can result in rare but serious ophthalmological complications. The most catastrophic adverse events include central retinal artery occlusion and ischemic optic neuropathy, which may lead to irreversible vision loss. Other complications include diplopia, ptosis, dry eye, and orbital cellulitis, with varying degrees of severity and reversibility. Awareness of potential ocular risks, appropriate patient selection, and adherence to safe injection techniques are crucial for preventing complications. This narrative review summarizes the incidence, mechanisms, clinical features, risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies of ocular complications associated with aesthetic medical procedures. A narrative literature review was conducted, emphasizing data from clinical studies, case series, and expert consensus published between 2015 and 2025. Special attention is given to anatomical danger zones, the pathophysiological pathways of filler embolization, and the roles of hyaluronidase and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in acute management. Although many complications are self-limited or reversible, prompt recognition and intervention are critical to prevent permanent sequelae. The increasing prevalence of these procedures demands enhanced education, informed consent, and interdisciplinary collaboration between aesthetic providers and ophthalmologists. Full article

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a key protein family member that includes activins, inhibins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). It is essential in numerous biological processes, such as chemotaxis, apoptosis, differentiation, growth, and cell migration. TGF-β receptors initiate signaling through two primary pathways: the canonical pathway involving Smad proteins and non-canonical pathways that utilize alternative signaling mechanisms. When TGF-β signaling is disrupted, it has been shown to contribute to the development of various diseases, including cancer. Initially, TGF-β effectively inhibits the cell cycle and promotes apoptosis. However, its role can transition to facilitating tumor growth and metastasis as the disease progresses. Moreover, TGF-β drives cancer progression through epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), modulation of factor expression, and evasion of immune responses. This complexity establishes the need for further research, particularly into pharmacological agents targeting TGF-β, which are emerging as promising therapeutic options. Current clinical and preclinical studies are making significant strides toward mitigating the adverse effects of TGF-β. This underscores the critical importance of understanding its underlying mechanisms to enhance treatment effectiveness and improve survival rates for cancer patients. Full article

Background: TGF-β is an immunosuppressive cytokine. Its signaling pathway plays a role in anti-inflammatory responses. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a clinical consequence of atherosclerosis, which manifests as chronic inflammation and involves platelet mediators, including TGF-β. The aim of this study is to validate the diagnostic utility of TGF-β levels in relation to classical and molecular risk factors for CAD. Methods: The study group included 25 women and 75 men, all aged up to 55 and 50 years, respectively, who had been diagnosed with early-onset CAD. Fasting blood samples were taken to measure plasma levels of TGF-β, sCD36, PCSK9, TNF, VEGF, IL-6, and E-selectin using the ELISA method. Furthermore, a full lipid profile, apolipoproteins (Lp(a), ApoA1, and ApoB), C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and blood morphology were analyzed at the Central Hospital Laboratory. A physical examination was also performed. Results: Positive associations were observed between TGF-β concentration and TNF, platelet count, PTC, and triglyceride levels. TNF and platelet concentration were significant independent predictors of increased plasma TGF-β levels. None of the clinical parameters showed statistically significant associations with plasma TGF-β concentration. Conclusions: Our research has demonstrated that TGF-β levels, including circulating TNF, triglycerides, and platelets, are linked to specific biochemical risk factors in early-onset CAD cases. Full article

Platelets have long been known to be critically involved in hemostasis and thrombosis. However, platelets are also recognized as metabolically active cells that require well-regulated mitochondrial function to support their multiple functions in hemostasis, thrombosis, and inflammation. Mitochondrial activity has also recently been shown to play a crucial role in determining platelet activation, survival, and pro-inflammatory potential. A key nexus in these processes is the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), a high-conductance channel in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Sustained mPTP opening triggers mitochondrial depolarization, the cessation of ATP synthesis, osmotic swelling, and, finally, platelet dysfunction or clearance. However, its transient opening might play physiological signaling roles. This review summarizes the current understanding of the molecular components and regulatory factors governing the platelet mPTP, explores its physiological and pathological relevance, and evaluates its potential as a therapeutic target in cardiovascular disease, inflammation, cancer, and potentially neurodegenerative diseases. We also highlight the ongoing challenges and crucial future directions in deciphering the complexities of platelet mitochondrial dynamics and mPTP functions. Full article

Objectives: This study sought to assess the impact of diabetes and hypertension on wound healing and recovery in orthopedic patients, with an emphasis on laboratory correlations. Materials and Methods: This study included 67 orthopedic patients, divided into a geriatric group (n = 49, ≥65 years) and a control group (n = 18). Clinical and laboratory assessments were performed at admission and discharge. Data were analyzed statistically. Results: Geriatric patients showed a higher triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI), glucose, cholesterol, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and leukocytes and lower hemoglobin and platelets (PLTs), with poorer healing and well-being. Elevated CRP, IL-6, and urea and decreased protein and hemoglobin persisted in this group. Diabetes improved outcomes in older adults, while hypertension worsened them in younger patients. Favorable outcomes correlated with higher triglycerides, fibrinogen, hemoglobin, and red blood cells (RBCs), while they did not correlate with elevated CRP, IL-6, leptin, urea, creatinine, and white blood cells (WBCs). Conclusions: Key predictors of healing and well-being included CRP, hemoglobin, RBC, and hematocrit in older patients and hypertension, CRP, hemoglobin, and leptin in younger individuals. Age-specific metabolic and inflammatory profiles influence recovery trajectories and may be used to predict problems in both recovery and patients’ well-being. Further research is required to better understand the correlations between these factors. Full article

This study evaluated the bone regeneration effect and mechanical properties of “Sticky bone”, a mixture of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and synthetic bone grafts (SBGs), in the repair of large femoral bone defects in rabbits. Eighteen New Zealand white rabbits were included and randomly divided into a Sticky bone group and an SBG alone group. Bone graft samples were collected and analyzed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery. Micro- computed tomography (CT) analysis showed that the amount of the Sticky bone group in the grayscale ranges of 255–140 (highly mineralized tissue or unabsorbed bone powder) and 140–90 (representing new cancellous bone) was higher than that of the SBG group at each time point and decreased with the number of weeks. The compression strength test showed that the average compression strength of the Sticky bone group reached 5.17 MPa at the 12th week, which was 1.62 times that of the intact bone (3.19 MPa) and was significantly better than that of the SBG group (about 4.12 MPa). This study also confirmed for the first time that the use of a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) blood collection tube to prepare PRF can stably release key growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which are conducive to early bone vascularization and cell proliferation. In summary, Sticky bone has the potential to promote bone formation, enhance tissue integration and mechanical stability, and can be used as an effective alternative material for repairing large-scale bone defects in clinical practice in the future. Full article

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) within the neuronal niche are expressed during brain development, contributing to multiple aspects of neurogenesis, yet their roles in glial lineage commitment remain elusive. This study utilised three human cell models expanded under basal culture conditions followed by media-induced lineage induction to identify a reproducible and robust model of gliogenesis. SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells (neuronal control), ReNcell CX human neural progenitor cells (astrocyte inductive) and ReNcell VM human neural progenitor (mixed neural induction) models were examined. The cultures were characterised during basal and inductive states via Q-PCR, Western Blotting, immunocytochemistry (ICC) and calcium signalling activity analyses. While the ReNcell lines did not produce fully mature or homogeneous astrocyte cultures, the ReNcell CX cultures most closely resembled an astrocytic phenotype with ReNcell VM cells treated with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) biased toward an oligodendrocyte lineage. The glycated variant of surface-bound glypican-2 (GPC2) was found to be associated with lineage commitment, with GPC6 and 6-O HS sulfation upregulated in astrocyte lineage cultures. Syndecan-3 (SDC3) emerged as a lineage-sensitive proteoglycan, with its cytoplasmic domain enriched in progenitor-like states and lost upon differentiation, supporting a role in maintaining neural plasticity. Conversely, the persistence of transmembrane-bound SDC3 in astrocyte cultures suggest continued involvement in extracellular signalling and proteoglycan secretion, demonstrated by increased membrane-bound HS aggregates. This data supports HSPGs and HS GAGs as human neural lineage differentiation and specification markers that may enable better isolation of human neural lineage-specific cell populations and improve our understanding of human neurogenesis. Full article

Background: Chronic wounds represent a persistent clinical challenge and impose a considerable burden on healthcare systems. These lesions often require multidisciplinary management due to underlying factors such as microbial colonization, impaired immunity, and vascular insufficiencies. Regenerative therapies, particularly autologous approaches, have emerged as promising strategies to enhance wound healing. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may improve outcomes through paracrine effects and growth factor release. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 31 patients with chronic wounds that were unresponsive to conservative treatment for over six weeks. Clinical and photographic evaluations were employed to monitor healing. All patients underwent surgical debridement, with adjunctive interventions—negative pressure wound therapy, grafting, or flaps—applied as needed. PRP infiltration and/or autologous adipose tissue transfer were administered based on wound characteristics. Wound area reduction was the primary outcome measure. Results: The cohort included 17 males and 14 females (mean age: 59 years). Etiologies included venous insufficiency (39%), diabetes mellitus (25%), arterial insufficiency (16%), and trauma (16%). Most lesions (84%) were located on the lower limbs. All patients received PRP therapy; five underwent combined PRP and fat grafting. Over the study period, 64% of the patients exhibited >80% wound area reduction, with complete healing in 48.3% and a mean healing time of 49 days. Conclusions: PRP therapy proved to be a safe, effective, and adaptable treatment, promoting substantial healing in chronic wounds. Autologous adipose tissue transfer did not confer additional benefit. PRP may warrant inclusion in national treatment protocols. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Spontaneous renal hematoma, also known as Wunderlich syndrome (WS), is a rare disease characterized by the acute onset of spontaneous renal hemorrhage into the subcapsular, perirenal, and/or pararenal spaces without a history of prior trauma. WS can be a life-threatening condition due to hemorrhagic shock; consequently, prompt diagnosis and a therapeutic approach are essential for favorable outcomes. Treatment ranges from conservative management to surgical intervention. The most common etiologies are neoplasms and vascular diseases, but WS can also be observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis. In patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), especially those on hemodialysis, acquired cystic kidney disease and renal cell carcinoma are among the primary causes of WS. Although less common, WS can develop in dialysis patients even in the absence of traditional (primary) risk factors. In general, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a paradoxical hemostatic profile, likely explaining their higher tendency to bleed, so WS can occur without existing predisposing factors. The multifactorial pathogenesis in these patients includes functional platelet abnormalities, intimal arterial fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with ESRD. The use of hemodialysis-related antithrombotic medications could serve as another contributing factor increasing the risk of bleeding. Case Presentation: We present a case report of a 62-year-old male on chronic dialysis who developed sudden right-sided lumbar pain and hematuria during dialysis without evidence of prior trauma. Imaging revealed a large subcapsular hematoma of the right kidney. Further investigations did not reveal additional risk factors in this instance; however, his routinely used hemodialysis-related antithrombotic medications were potentially a contributing factor. Despite conservative treatment, his condition worsened, and the hematoma enlarged, requiring emergency nephrectomy. Postoperatively, his condition gradually improved. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of considering WS in hemodialysis patients, even without the presence of traditional risk factors, as well as including WS in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain. Full article

Although platelets have been traditionally thought of to be essential hemostasis mediators, new research shows how important they are for controlling cellular oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, and immunological responses—particularly during major surgery on the abdomen. Perioperative problems are largely caused by the continually changing interaction of inflammatory cytokines, the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and platelet activation. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most recent data regarding the complex function of platelets in abdominal surgery, with an emphasis on how they interact with inflammation and oxidative stress, and to investigate the impact on postoperative therapy and subsequent studies. Recent study data on platelet biology, redox signals, surgical stress, and antiplatelet tactics was reviewed in a systematic manner. Novel tailored therapies, perioperative antiplatelet medication, oxidative biomarkers of interest, and platelet-derived microscopic particles are important themes. In surgical procedures, oxidative stress dramatically increases the reactive capacity of platelets, spurring thromboinflammatory processes that affect cardiac attacks, infection risk, and recovery. A number of biomarkers, including soluble CD40L, thromboxane B2, and sNOX2-derived peptide, showed potential in forecasting results and tailored treatment. Antiplatelet medications are still essential for controlling risk factors for cardiovascular disease, yet using them during surgery necessitates carefully weighing the risks of thrombosis and bleeding. Biomarker-guided therapies, antioxidant adjuncts, and specific platelet inhibitors are examples of evolving tactics. In abdominal procedures, platelets strategically operate at the nexus of oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, and clotting. Improved patient classification, fewer problems, and the creation of individualized surgical care strategies could result from an increased incorporation of platelet-focused tests and therapies into perioperative processes. To improve clinical recommendations, subsequent studies may want to focus on randomized studies, biomarker verification, and using translational approaches. Full article

The objective of this study was to evaluate the serum biomarkers implicated in the interaction of platelets and endothelium, as well as the efficacy of antiplatelet therapy in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and coronary artery disease (CAD). A total of 78 adult patients with CAD on aspirin therapy participated in this study, including 49 consecutive patients with AS and 29 control subjects. The analysis included the following serum biomarkers: thrombomodulin (TM), platelet factor 4 (PF4), P-selectin, and CD40L. The efficacy of antiplatelet treatment was evaluated using the VerifyNow Aspirin test (ASPI test) and P2Y12 assay test (ADP test). Patients with AS exhibited increased serum levels of TM (7.64 ± 3.5 ng/mL vs. 6.28 ± 2.1 ng/mL, p = 0.011) and PF4 (25.16; Q1: 8.3; Q3: 29.6 μg/mL vs. 12.85; Q1: 5.7; Q3: 14.5 μg/mL, p = 0.021) compared to the control group. P-selectin and CD40L levels did not differ between groups. There were no significant differences in platelet aggregation in the ASPI (474.04 ± 66.7 ARU vs. 471.31 ± 56.2 ARU; p = 0.822) or ADP (224.88 ± 46.4 PRU vs. 216.62 ± 29.6 PRU; p = 0.394) tests. Bleeding incidence did not differ significantly between groups. The coexistence of AS in patients with CAD is associated with elevated levels of the aforementioned biomarkers, which are indicative of endothelial damage and platelet activation. However, the efficacy of antiplatelet treatment was independent of the presence of AS. Full article