Search Results (617)

Amperometric biosensors, due to their high sensitivity, fast response time, low cost, simple control, miniaturization capabilities, and other advantages, are receiving significant attention in the field of medical diagnostics, especially in monitoring blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. In this study, an amperometric glucose biosensor based on immobilized enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx) and bimetallic platinum cobalt (PtCo) nanoparticles was developed. The PtCo nanoparticles, deposited on a graphite rod electrode, exhibited peroxidase-like catalytic properties and were able to electrocatalyze the reduction of H₂O₂. After immobilization of the GOx, an amperometric signal generated by the biosensor was directly proportional to the glucose concentration in the range of 0.04–2.18 mM. The biosensor demonstrated a sensitivity of 19.38 μA mM⁻¹ cm⁻², with a detection limit of 0.021 mM and a quantification limit of 0.064 mM. In addition to this analytical performance, the biosensor exhibited excellent repeatability (relative standard deviation (RSD) was 4.90%); operational and storage stability, retaining 98.93% and 95.33% of its initial response after 26 cycles of glucose detection and over a 14-day period, respectively; and anti-interference ability against electroactive species, as well as exceptional selectivity for glucose and satisfactory reproducibility (RSD 8.90%). Additionally, the biosensor was able to detect glucose levels in blood serum with a high accuracy (RSD 5.89%), indicating potential suitability for glucose determination in real samples. Full article

Background: Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly aggressive neuroendocrine malignancy characterized by rapid growth, early metastatic dissemination, and a dismal prognosis. For decades, treatment paradigms remained largely stagnant, particularly for extensive-stage disease (ES-SCLC). However, the last five years have witnessed a significant evolution in the therapeutic landscape. Methods: The information for this article was gathered by synthesizing data from several key sources. This article synthesizes the evidence supporting current standards of care for both limited-stage (LS-SCLC) and ES-SCLC, incorporating data from pivotal clinical trials, a network meta-analysis of first-line chemoimmunotherapy regimens, and a critical appraisal of international treatment guidelines, and a critical analysis of international treatment guidelines from prominent organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO). This comprehensive approach allows for a robust and well-supported summary of the current therapeutic landscape. Results: For limited-stage SCLC (LS-SCLC), concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) remains the curative-intent standard, but its efficacy is now being augmented by consolidative immunotherapy, as demonstrated by the landmark ADRIATIC trial. The role of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) in LS-SCLC is being re-evaluated in the era of high-sensitivity brain imaging and concerns over neurotoxicity. For ES-SCLC, the treatment paradigm has been fundamentally transformed by the integration of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) with platinum–etoposide chemotherapy, establishing a new standard of care that offers a modest but consistent survival benefit. Conclusions: The treatment of SCLC has been significantly advanced by the integration of immunotherapy, particularly for extensive-stage disease, which has established a new standard of care and improved patient outcomes. Looking to the future, the quest for predictive biomarkers and the development of novel therapeutic classes, such as Bi-specific T-cell Engagers (BiTEs) and antibody–drug conjugates, promise to build upon recent progress and offer new hope for improving the dismal prognosis associated with this disease. Full article

This study investigates two cases of stage IVb de novo multi-metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) that responded to immunotherapy but resulted in different outcomes. Case 1 involved a multi-metastatic NPC patient (T4N3M1) with extensive bone and lymphatic metastases and severely impaired physical condition (ECOG PS 2) who showed significant tumor reduction after one cycle of immunotherapy combined with non-platinum chemotherapy, with no radiation exposure. Due to financial difficulties, the patient received intermittent immunotherapy plus chemotherapy and survived 28 months with a good quality of life. Case 2 describes a multi-metastatic NPC patient (T3N2M1) with multi-organ (bone and liver) metastases and good performance status (ECOG PS 0) who underwent standard chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy but experienced rapid progression and died after 21 months. Immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy remains the standard for multi-metastatic NPC patients. Patients responsive to induction chemotherapy gain survival benefits from subsequent radiotherapy. However, the advantages and disadvantages of radiotherapy for immunotherapy-sensitive multi-metastatic NPC patients are still unclear. Radiotherapy (RT) can enhance local control and promote tumor antigen release, thereby complementing immunotherapy; yet it can also damage immune cells, leading to exhaustion and resistance. Therefore, balancing RT and chemotherapy is vital for optimizing immune synergy and preventing immune exhaustion. Full article

Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) is a pivotal biomarker in precision oncology, driving therapeutic strategies for ovarian and breast cancers through impaired DNA double-strand break repair. This narrative review synthesizes recent advances (2021–2025) in HRD’s biological basis, prevalence, detection methods, and clinical implications, focusing on high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC; ~50% HRD prevalence) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC; 50–70% prevalence). HRD arises from genetic (BRCA1/2, RAD51C/D, PALB2) and epigenetic alterations (e.g., BRCA1 methylation), leading to genomic instability detectable via scars (LOH, TAI, LST) and mutational signatures (e.g., COSMIC SBS3). Advanced detection integrates genomic assays (Myriad myChoice CDx, Caris HRD, FoundationOne CDx), functional assays (RAD51 foci), and epigenetic profiling, with tools like HRProfiler and GIScar achieving >90% sensitivity. HRD predicts robust responses to PARP inhibitors (PARPi) and platinum therapies, extending progression-free survival by 12–36 months in HGSOC. However, resistance mechanisms (BRCA reversion, SETD1A/EME1, SOX5) and assay variability (60–70% non-BRCA concordance) pose challenges. We propose a conceptual framework in ^{Section 10}, integrating multi-omics, methylation analysis, and biallelic reporting to enhance detection and therapeutic stratification. Regional variations (e.g., Asian cohorts) and disparities in access underscore the need for standardized, cost-effective diagnostics. Future priorities include validating novel biomarkers (SBS39, miR-622) and combination therapies (PARPi with ATR inhibitors) to overcome resistance and broaden HRD’s applicability across cancers. Full article

This study presents the in vitro and preliminary ex vivo development of a novel microneedle-based pH sensor for continuous intrapartum fetal monitoring. The objective was to evaluate the feasibility of using microneedle sensors to monitor fetal pH during labour and to develop a proof-of-principle microneedle pH sensor that meets clinical requirements such as high sensitivity to small pH changes (0.05 units) within a relevant range (6.50–7.45), minimal tissue disruption, and a compact design suitable for transcervical placement on the fetal scalp (<40 mm diameter). Platinum microneedles were passivated with ArCare medical adhesive and coated with iridium oxide via electrodeposition. Sensitivity was tested in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and artificial interstitial fluid (ISF), using both external Ag/AgCl and internal platinum pseudo-reference electrodes. In PBS, the sensor exhibited linear responses in increments of 0.05 pH units over the clinically relevant range (6.5–7.45), with slopes of −60.49 mV/pH (R² = 0.946, accuracy = 97.65%) and −63.2 mV/pH (R² = 0.910, accuracy = 93.70%) in the external and internal configurations, respectively. In ISF, a slope of −25.5 mV/pH (R² = 0.979) was obtained. Ex vivo testing on human skin confirmed successful microneedle penetration without visible iridium oxide transfer or tissue damage, as indicated by methylene blue staining. These findings support the potential for continuous minimally invasive fetal pH monitoring during labour, representing a significant step toward more objective and specific intrapartum assessment. Full article

The development of gas sensors with high sensitivity and low operating temperatures is essential for practical applications in environmental monitoring and industrial safety. SnO₂-based gas sensors, despite their widespread use, often suffer from high working temperatures and limited sensitivity to H₂ gas, which presents significant challenges for their performance and application. This study addresses these issues by introducing a novel SnO₂-based sensor featuring a three-dimensional (3D) nanostructure, designed to enhance sensitivity and allow for room-temperature operation. This work lies in the use of a 3D anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template to deposit SnO₂ nanoparticles through ultrasonic spray pyrolysis, followed by modification with platinum (Pt) nanoparticles to further enhance the sensor’s response. The as-prepared sensors were extensively characterized, and their H₂ sensing performance was evaluated. The results show that the 3D nanostructure provides a uniform and dense distribution of SnO₂ nanoparticles, which significantly improves the sensor’s sensitivity and repeatability, especially in H₂ detection at room temperature. This work demonstrates the potential of utilizing 3D nanostructures to overcome the traditional limitations of SnO₂-based sensors. Full article

The concept of “platinum sensitivity” has long guided prognostic assessment and treatment selection in recurrent ovarian cancer. However, the emergence of targeted agents, such as bevacizumab and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, has complicated its clinical utility. In contrast, emerging evidence suggests that platinum sensitivity may also be applicable to recurrent endometrial cancer. As in ovarian cancer, a prolonged platinum-free interval (PFI) in recurrent endometrial cancer is associated with an improved efficacy of subsequent platinum-based chemotherapy. The PFI is linearly correlated with the response rate to platinum re-administration, progression-free survival, and overall survival. Patients are typically classified as having platinum-resistant or platinum-sensitive disease based on a PFI cutoff of 6 or 12 months. However, unlike in ovarian cancer—where the duration of response to second-line platinum-based chemotherapy rarely exceeds the prior PFI (~3%)—approximately 30% of patients with recurrent endometrial cancer exhibit a sustained response to platinum rechallenge that extends beyond their preceding PFI. Despite the incorporation of immune checkpoint inhibitors into the treatment landscape of endometrial cancer, the role of platinum sensitivity in clinical decision-making—particularly regarding treatment sequencing and drug selection—remains a critical and unresolved issue. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying platinum resistance and to guide optimal therapeutic strategies. Full article

The use of pressure-sensitive paints (PSPs), an optical oxygen sensing technique, to visualise and measure the surface pressure on vehicle models in wind tunnel testing is becoming increasingly prevalent. Porphyrins have long been the standard luminophore for PSP formulations, with the majority employing the red-emitting platinum(II)-5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorphenyl)-porphyrin. nIR-emitting luminophores, such as Pt(II) tetraphenyl tetrabenzoporphyrins, possess distinct advantages over visible emitting luminophores. In particular, they have wider spectrally useful ‘windows’, facilitating the insertion of a secondary visible emitting temperature-sensitive luminophore to be used for internal calibration without spectral crosstalk that detrimentally impacts PSP performance. In this work, we explore the effect of changing the loading quantity of an nIR-emitting para-CF₃ Pt(II) benzoporphyrin luminophore on the performance of PSP formulations. An optimal luminophore loading of 1.28% wt/wt benzoporphyrin luminophore to polystyrene binder was identified, resulting in a low temperature sensitivity at 100 kPa of 0.61%/K and a large pressure sensitivity at 293 K of 0.740%/kPa. These strong performance metrics, for a polystyrene-based PSP, demonstrate the efficacy of benzoporphyrin luminophores as an attractive luminophore option for the development of a new generation of high-performance PSP formulations that outperform current commercially available ones. Full article

The pharmacological treatment of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is often hampered by tumor resistance. Improving our understanding of this issue is crucial for developing strategies that can overcome drug refractoriness. We have established and characterized two novel human cell sublines derived from extrahepatic CCA EGI-1 cells that are resistant to cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Migration and proliferation were analyzed using holographic microscopy. The expression of genes involved in drug uptake and efflux was determined by RT-qPCR. Cross-resistance to commonly used antitumor drugs was assayed using the MTT test. EGI-1 sublines resistant to cisplatin (CR) or 5-FU (FR) exhibited more than a three-fold increase in resistance to cisplatin and 5-FU, respectively, and showed reduced proliferation, migration, and colony-formation rates, along with an altered cell cycle compared to wild-type cells, while retaining tumorigenic capacity. The analysis of the transportome showed downregulation of uptake transporters and upregulation of the export pumps MRP3/4. EGI-1 cells with acquired resistance to 5-FU demonstrated cross-resistance to irinotecan and gemcitabine, while cisplatin-resistant cells showed decreased sensitivity to 5-FU and platinum derivatives. These resistant cell lines offer valuable models for investigating the molecular basis of chemoresistance in CCA, providing a robust platform for the development and evaluation of novel therapeutic strategies. Full article

The content of glutathione in the human body is crucial to human health, so a convenient and efficient method is needed to detect it. Herein, porous coordination network-224 (PCN-224) was modified by polydopamine to prepare polydopamine-modified PCN-224 (PCN-224-PDA) to improve the water dispersibility of the PCN-224. Monodispersed platinum nanoparticles were loaded into the PCN-224-PDA to prepare PCN-224-PDA-Pt. The PCN-224-PDA-Pt showed high peroxidase-like catalytic activity, and its catalytic activity was affected by pH and temperature. The PCN-224-PDA-Pt almost had no hemolysis of red blood cells. In addition, the PCN-224-PDA-Pt showed high affinity for 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine and catalytic efficiency in kinetic studies, and the type of reactive oxygen species generated during the catalytic process was hydroxyl radicals. More importantly, a colorimetric method for glutathione detection was developed based on the peroxidase-like activity of the PCN-224-PDA-Pt. The linear detection range was 1–600 μM and the detection limit reached 0.306 μM. This method shows good anti-interference capabilities and excellent recovery rates, indicating its strong potential for applications in biological detection. Full article

Copper is essential for various biological functions, but elevated levels in water can pose serious health risks. In this work, we introduce a novel electrochemical sensor designed for the highly sensitive and selective detection of copper ions. The sensor is based on a screen-printed platinum working electrode coated with a solid-state Nafion layer. Compared to previous platinum-based sensors, this design demonstrates enhanced sensitivity, a wide linear detection range (1 µM to 10 mM), and an exceptionally low limit of detection (1 nM). It also offers a rapid response time of 3–6 s, strong selectivity, and excellent stability. Interference from common metal ions such as Cr²⁺, Zn²⁺, Mn²⁺, Pb²⁺, and Fe²⁺ was minimal, with signal deviations remaining below 2%, and performance remained consistent across varying anion concentrations, showing less than 1% deviation. The use of Nafion as a solid-state electrolyte successfully overcomes challenges typically associated with traditional silver-based reference electrodes. These characteristics make the sensor a reliable and practical tool for the rapid, on-site monitoring of water quality. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether the expression levels of GPAT4 and SLC7A11 are associated with survival outcomes and platinum resistance in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients. Methods: We analyzed the medical records of EOC patients. EOC samples obtained during surgery were stained for GPAT4 and SLC7A11. Cox regression and Kaplan—Meier analyses were performed to assess the impact of GPAT4 and SLC7A11 expression on overall survival (OS). Results: We found that GPAT4 and SLC7A11 expression levels were greater in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer tissues than in platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer tissues. High expression of both GPAT4 and SLC7A11 was associated with an increased risk of platinum resistance compared with low expression of both factors. High expression of both SLC7A11 and GPAT4 was independently correlated with poor OS, highlighting the significance of this integrated metric as a prognostic factor in ovarian cancer. The GPAT inhibitor (GPAT-IN-1) and an SLC7A11 inhibitor (erastin) attenuated platinum resistance in ovarian cancer cells, and their combined application increased cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the combination of GPAT-IN-1, erastin, and cisplatin significantly improved the chemotherapeutic effects on platinum-resistant ovarian cancer cells. Conclusions: High expression of both SLC7A11 and GPAT4 is related to platinum resistance in EOC patients. The high expression of both SLC7A11 and GPAT4 serves as an important independent prognostic factor and indicates potential therapeutic targets for patients with platinum-resistant EOC. Full article

An important class of analytes are volatile organic carbons (VOCs), particularly aliphatic primary alcohols. Here, we report the straightforward modification of a commercially available carbon monoxide sensor to detect a range of aliphatic primary alcohols at room temperature. The mass transport mechanisms governing the performance of the sensor were investigated using diffusion in multiple layers of the sensor to model the response to an abrupt change in analyte concentration. The sensor was shown to have a large capacitance because of the nanoparticulate nature of the platinum working electrode. It was also shown that the modified sensor had performance characteristics that were mainly determined by the condensation of the analyte during diffusion through the membrane pores. The sensor was capable of a quantitative amperometric response (sensitivity of approximately 2.2 µA/ppm), with a limit of detection (LoD) of 17 ppm methanol, 2 ppm ethanol, 3 ppm heptan-1-ol, and displayed selectivity towards different VOC functional groups (the sensor gives an amperometric response to primary alcohols within 10 s, but not to esters or carboxylic acids). Full article

Optical oxygen sensors have attracted considerable attention owing to their high sensitivity, rapid response, and broad applicability. However, their test results may be affected by fluctuations in the pump light source and instability of the detection equipment. In this study, the intrinsic luminescence of pine wood was utilized as the reference signal, and the luminescence of platinum(II) octaethylporphyrin (PtOEP) was employed as the oxygen indication signal, to fabricate a dual-signal ratiometric oxygen sensor PtOEP/PDMS@Pine. The ratio of the luminescence of pine wood to that of PtOEP was defined as the optical parameter (OP). OP increased linearly with oxygen concentration ([O₂]) in the range of 10–100 kPa, and a calibration curve was obtained. The sensor exhibits excellent anti-interference capabilities, effectively resisting fluctuations from laser sources and detection equipment. It also displays stable hydrophobicity with a contact angle of 118.3° and maintains excellent photostability under continuous illumination. The sensor exhibited long-term stability within 90 days and robust recovery performance during cyclic tests, wherein the response time and recovery time were determined to be 1.4 s and 1.7 s, respectively. Finally, the effects of temperature fluctuations and photobleaching on the sensor’s performance have been effectively corrected, enabling accurate oxygen concentration measurements in complex environments. Full article

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, which causes 313,959 new cases and 207,252 deaths worldwide annually. The lack of specific symptoms, together with no effective screening tools, results in 75% of patients receiving their diagnosis at an advanced stage. The combination of cytoreductive surgery with platinum-based chemotherapy plays a pivotal role in the treatment of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer, but patients still experience poor long-term survival because of frequent relapses and chemotherapy resistance. The treatment landscape has evolved because bevacizumab and Poly-ADP Ribose Polymerase inhibitors now serve as frontline and maintenance therapies for homologous recombination-deficient tumors. Treatment decisions for recurrent disease depend on platinum sensitivity assessment, which determines the appropriate therapeutic approach, while targeted agents deliver significant benefits to specific patient groups. The development of antibody-drug conjugates such as mirvetuximab soravtansine and immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors and cancer vaccines, demonstrates promising investigative potential. The precision of therapy improves through the use of emerging biomarkers and molecular profiling techniques. The future management of this disease may change because of innovative approaches that include adoptive cell therapy, cytokine therapy, and oncolytic viruses. The progress made in ovarian cancer treatment still faces challenges when it comes to drug resistance, survival improvement, and life quality preservation. The development of translational research alongside clinical trials remains essential to bridge treatment gaps while creating personalized therapies based on molecular and clinical tumor characteristics. Full article