Search Results (6,495)

Microplastics, synthetic polymer particles measuring less than 5 mm, have become a widespread environmental pollutant, raising concerns over their possible effects on human health. Growing evidence links MPs to vascular aging and cardiovascular disease beyond their ecological toxicity. Upon inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, microplastics can traverse biological barriers, circulate systemically, and accumulate in vascular tissues. Experimental investigations indicate that MPs, especially polystyrene and polyethylene in nano- and micro-sized forms, induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic inflammation. These disruptions activate redox-sensitive signaling pathways, such as NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome, causing endothelial dysfunction, vascular smooth muscle modulation, and foam cell production, indicating early vascular aging. Animal models and in vitro studies have consistently shown endothelial activation, increased cytokine production, and changes in vascular tone after exposure to MPs. Initial human research has detected microplastics in blood, thrombi, and atherosclerotic plaques, which correlate with negative cardiovascular outcomes and systemic inflammation. Notably, recent research suggests that the gut microbiota and antioxidant systems may play a role in adaptive reactions, although these processes are still not fully understood. MP-induced vascular toxicity is covered in this interdisciplinary review, highlighting molecular pathways, experimental data, and translational gaps. Full article

Human fungal infections comprise systemic mycoses as well as various skin diseases. Rising case numbers along with inefficient therapies and the appearance of drug-resistant strains unleashed a considerable health problem over the last years. Thus, the identification and development of new antifungal drugs is mandatory, which can include the design of new antifungals, or, more time saving, the repurposing of known drugs already applied for the therapy of other human diseases. The orally applicable gold-based drug auranofin has been used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis since the 1980s. However, auranofin also showed marked activity against various cancers, microbes, parasites, and viruses. Facing a pressing need to find new drug candidates against mycoses, especially against those listed in the WHO fungal pathogen priority list, we have summarized the eminent antifungal activities of auranofin in this review. Given its established safety profile and broad-spectrum activity, auranofin represents a promising candidate for repurposing in antifungal therapy. The mechanism of action of auranofin was correlated with thioredoxin reductase inhibition, but other modes of action such as interference with mitochondrial protein import and NADH kinase were also described and discussed. A selection of promising antifungal gold complexes was also provided. Pertinent literature is covered until 2025. Full article

Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), a transboundary pathogen threatening cattle health in South and Southeast Asia, presents growing challenges for disease control. This study combined serological, molecular, and genomic approaches to investigate LSDV in Barura Upazila, Bangladesh. Serological screening of 424 cattle using a commercial ELISA revealed a high seroprevalence of 55.5% (95% CI: 50.7–60.3), indicating widespread exposure. Although differences were observed by age and breed, no significant associations were found with seropositivity, suggesting broad regional circulation. Real-time PCR confirmed LSDV DNA in all 20 clinically infected animals, with consistent P32 gene amplification. Two samples with low Cq values underwent whole-genome sequencing. The complete genomes of LSDV-L2/2024 and LSDV-L3/2024 showed >99.6% identity with the reference strain LSDV-29, yet carried unique genomic features, including truncated or variant ORFs and immune-related gene differences. Phylogenetic analysis of the DNA polymerase gene revealed distinct clustering: L2/2024 aligned with South Asian isolates, while L3/2024 grouped with strains from Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. These results highlight co-circulation of genetically diverse strains and possible cross-regional introductions. Overall, our findings underscore the evolutionary plasticity of LSDV and the critical need for ongoing genomic surveillance to guide targeted vaccine development and disease control strategies. Full article

Liver cirrhosis, a progressive and often irreversible condition, exerts widespread systemic effects, with the skin frequently serving as a visible window into the extent of hepatic dysfunction. Cutaneous manifestations, such as spider angiomas, palmar erythema, jaundice, and pruritus, not only reflect underlying pathophysiologic changes but also serve as important, non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers of disease severity. Early detection of such cutaneous findings may allow for early treatment, optimize patient management, and improve outcomes. This review addresses the various cutaneous manifestations of liver cirrhosis, their pathogenesis, and their prognostic and diagnostic importance, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical awareness of the improvement in patient care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) is a well-established alternative to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in patients with primary (PID) and secondary immunodeficiency (SID), with demonstrated benefits in safety and quality of life. However, its implementation remains limited in parts of Southern Europe, partly due to frequent local adverse reactions (LARs), which, despite being mild, can affect adherence and clinician confidence. This study aimed to identify clinical, anatomical, psychosocial, and geographical factors associated with LARs and to develop an exploratory model for individualized risk estimation. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, multicenter observational study in eight Spanish hospitals using data from the GEIE Registry. Patients aged ≥14 years with PID or SID receiving SCIg for ≥1 month were included. Demographic, clinical, anatomical, and psychosocial variables were collected. A multivariable logistic regression model was built to identify independent predictors of LARs and internally validated using bootstrap resampling (500 iterations). A nomogram was constructed for personalized risk prediction. Results: Among 223 included patients, 73.1% reported LARs, primarily swelling, pruritus, and rash. Independent predictors included smaller abdominal perimeter (OR 0.955, p < 0.001), history of skin disease (OR 2.75, p = 0.044), greater distance to hospital (OR 1.01, p = 0.050), and absence of anxiety (OR 0.089, p = 0.001). Model discrimination was good (AUC 0.801), with minimal optimism after internal validation (validated AUC 0.788). Conclusions: LARs are common among patients receiving SCIg and could be influenced by anatomical, dermatological, psychological, and geographical factors. This exploratory multicenter study underscores the clinical relevance of these factors and may guide more personalized and safer use of SCIg. Full article

Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila) is responsible for causing abdominal dropsy, swimming abnormalities, skin ulcerations, and pale gills in fish. Vaccination is an essential strategy for disease prevention in aquaculture. This study evaluated the efficacy of an oral vaccine against A. hydrophila in Ctenopharyngodon idella (C. idella). The vaccine was formulated as feed-based monovalent pellets, incorporating or spraying formalin-killed A. hydrophila on/into commercial feed with 30% crude protein. Mineral and fish oils were used as adjuvants at 10% of the feed. Prior to the trial, the experimental feed groups were subjected to quality and safety tests. Grass carp fingerlings (20 ± 5 g) were divided into seven groups (n = 20 per group): sprayed vaccinated feed with fish oil (SVFF), incorporated vaccinated feed with fish oil (IVFF), sprayed vaccinated feed with mineral oil (SVFM), incorporated vaccinated feed with mineral oil (IVFM), sprayed vaccinated feed (SVF), incorporated vaccinated feed (IVF), and a control group. Feed was provided at 3% of body weight for 60 days. Immunomodulation was investigated through lysozyme activity, antibody titers, and immunoglobulin M (IgM). The IVFF group showed significantly enhanced immunity and growth performance, with an 87% protection rate, 13% mortality, and the highest relative percentage survival (83%) following intraperitoneal A. hydrophila (6.8 × 10⁹ CFU/mL) challenge. Histological analysis indicated minimal pathological changes in the IVFF group compared to controls. Fish oil as an adjuvant enhanced immunity without adverse health effects. Overall, this study demonstrated that feed-based monovalent vaccines effectively improve immune responses and provide protection against A. hydrophila in C. idella. Full article

Neurocutaneous syndromes, known as phakomatoses, encompass a diverse group of congenital conditions affecting the nervous system and skin, with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) among the most clinically significant. Both disorders are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. NF1 presents with café-au-lait macules; cutaneous, subcutaneous, and plexiform neurofibromas; skeletal abnormalities; learning disabilities; and optic pathway gliomas, while NF2 is characterised by bilateral vestibular schwannomas, multiple meningiomas, ependymomas, and peripheral nerve schwannomas. Although germline mutations in the NF1 and NF2 tumour suppressor genes are well established, they do not fully explain the broad clinical variability observed, even among individuals carrying identical mutations. As increasingly recognised in other genetic diseases, epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodelling, and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation, play a critical role in modulating gene expression and influencing disease severity. Despite important findings, the research remains fragmented, and a unified model is lacking. This review organises the current knowledge, emphasising how epigenetic alterations impact disease behaviour and outlining their potential as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms could lead to improved personalised management and the development of targeted epigenetic therapies for individuals with NF1 and NF2. Full article

Wearable and implantable Lab-on-Chip (LoC) biosensors are revolutionizing healthcare by enabling continuous, real-time monitoring of physiological and biochemical parameters in non-clinical settings. These miniaturized platforms integrate sample handling, signal transduction, and data processing on a single chip, facilitating early disease detection, personalized treatment, and preventive care. This review comprehensively explores recent advancements in LoC biosensing technologies, emphasizing their application in skin-mounted patches, smart textiles, and implantable devices. Key innovations in biocompatible materials, nanostructured transducers, and flexible substrates have enabled seamless integration with the human body, while fabrication techniques such as soft lithography, 3D printing, and MEMS have accelerated development. The incorporation of nanomaterials significantly enhances sensitivity and specificity, supporting multiplexed and multi-modal sensing. We examine critical application domains, including glucose monitoring, cardiovascular diagnostics, and neurophysiological assessment. Design considerations related to biocompatibility, power management, data connectivity, and long-term stability are also discussed. Despite promising outcomes, challenges such as biofouling, signal drift, regulatory hurdles, and public acceptance remain. Future directions focus on autonomous systems powered by AI, hybrid wearable–implantable platforms, and wireless energy harvesting. This review highlights the transformative potential of LoC biosensors in shaping the future of smart, patient-centered healthcare through continuous, minimally invasive monitoring. Full article

Herbs from the Gentianaceae family are widely known for their medicinal and pharmacological properties. They were used centuries ago as a part of traditional medicine in China and Tibet. This review aims to draw attention to the potential uses of gentian herbs in treating various diseases, including skin conditions, gastrointestinal and liver disorders, wound healing, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. The aim of our study was to systematically summarize current knowledge about key bioactive compounds present in both roots and aerial parts—such as xanthones, iridoids, and flavonoids—and highlight their pharmacological significance. We also focused on the Gentianaceae family’s usage in complementary and alternative medicine, as well as their anti-inflammatory, anti-melanogenic, anti-ischemic, anti-fibrotic, and antioxidant properties, which can be utilized in the treatment and prevention of dermatological diseases, such as skin cancers. Here, we involve ethnomedicinal knowledge with modern pharmacological data; we also highlight the scientific relevance of gentian-derived compounds in drug development. This review concludes that these species represent a promising source of natural agents, while also underlining the need for further research and conservation strategies to preserve threatened species. Full article

With the improvement in living standards and the aging of the population, the development of thin, light, and unobtrusive electronic skin devices is accelerating. These electronic devices combine the convenience of wearable electronics with the comfort of a skin-like fit. They are used to acquire multimodal physiological signal data from the wearer and real-time transmission of signals for vital signs monitoring, health dynamics warning, and disease prevention. These capabilities impose unique requirements on material selection, signal transmission, and data processing for such electronic devices. Firstly, this review provides a systematic introduction to nanomaterials, conductive hydrogels, and liquid metals, which are currently used in human health monitoring. Then, it introduces the solution to the contradiction between wireless data transmission and flexible electronic skin devices. Then, the latest data processing progress is briefly described. Finally, the latest research advances in electronic skin devices based on medical scenarios are presented, and their current development, challenges faced, and future opportunities in the field of vital signs monitoring are discussed. Full article

Interleukin (IL)-15 is primarily known as a pro-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic cytokine, which stimulates the proliferation and survival of key immunocytes, including macrophages (MACs). Yet, it remains unclear how IL-15 specifically impacts MACs in intact human skin, particularly immunoinhibitory, IL-10-producing/secreting M2 MACs (CD206⁺IL-10⁺). In the current pilot study, we explored this in organ-cultured healthy human eyelid skin in the presence of IFNγ (100 IU/mL) to mimic a pro-inflammatory signaling milieu found in several chronic immunodermatoses. Quantitative immunohistomorphometry showed that IFNγ significantly reduced the number of CD68⁺MACs, M2 CD206⁺MACs, and immunoinhibitory CD206⁺IL-10⁺MACs. Moreover, co-administering recombinant human (rh) IL-15 after inducing inflammation by IFNγ largely reversed the IFNγ-induced decline in MAC populations. To investigate if this was mediated via the private IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Rα), we successfully silenced IL-15Rα in human skin ex vivo. Indeed, co-administration of IL-15Rα siRNA abrogated the rhIL-15 protection of M2 CD206⁺MACs against IFNγ, but not of the CD206⁺IL-10⁺MAC subpopulation. These pilot data suggest that IL-15 maintains immunoinhibitory M2 CD206⁺IL-10⁺MACs in human skin under IFNγ-dominated inflammatory conditions. Therefore, it deserves to be explored whether IL-15 or IL-15Rα agonists can exert therapeutic benefit in chronic inflammatory dermatoses by preserving the intracutaneous pool of anti-inflammatory dermal M2 MACs. Full article

Background/Objectives: Rendu–Osler disease is a rare genetic disease, characterized by widespread telangiectasia that can involve the skin and mucous membranes. The diagnosis is based on spontaneous and recurrent epistaxis; various mucosal and cutaneous telangiectasia at typical sites; visceral manifestations including gastrointestinal telangiectasia or pulmonary, cerebral, or hepatic arteriovenous malformation; and a first-degree relative with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx generally develops in patients with a smoking history. It is most often treated by surgery and/or radiotherapy. To our knowledge, these two entities were never reported in the same patient. Methods: We herein report a case of a 51-year-old man with Rendu–Osler disease. He was subsequently diagnosed with a locally advanced well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the vocal cord. Results: The patient received a neo-adjuvant chemo-immunotherapy, with nine weekly injections of paclitaxel (60 mg/m²/week), cisplatin (30 mg/m²/week), and cetuximab (250 mg/m²/week), and three injections of pembrolizumab (200 mg every 3 weeks). This controlled tumor bleeding, and then cisplatin-enhanced radiotherapy helped obtain a complete remission. Conclusions: Locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx treatment in the context of active Rendu–Osler disease is challenging. If the wide curative surgical approach is deemed too risky, neo-adjuvant chemo-immunotherapy may present a helpful alternative as it may enhance the conditions in order to perform classical radiotherapy with concomitant cisplatin. Full article

Microplastics, increasingly recognized as environmental pollutants, have raised concerns regarding their potential effects on human health. In cosmetics and personal care products, microplastics may pose a risk through skin absorption. This review explores the presence of microplastics in cosmetics, their potential exposure pathways, and their dermatological implications. Evidence suggests that microplastics can penetrate the skin barrier, induce oxidative stress, promote inflammation, and contribute to premature aging. Despite growing regulatory efforts, global inconsistencies hinder comprehensive policy implementation. Rising environmental and health concerns have also fueled interest in sustainable alternatives such as biodegradable polymers and eco-friendly packaging. Further research is necessary to clarify long-term health effects and guide regulatory strategies. Full article

Blastomycosis, caused by dimorphic fungi of the Blastomyces genus, is endemic to regions in North America, including the Great Lakes and other parts of Canada and the United States of America. The infection primarily occurs through the inhalation of airborne conidia from contaminated soil and decaying organic matter. Pulmonary involvement is most common, but dissemination to other organs such as the skin and bones can occur, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Diagnosis is challenging due to its clinical overlap with other diseases. Culture remains the gold-standard diagnostic method, but is time-consuming, with sensitivity ranging from 66.4% to 86%. Tissue histopathology offers quicker results but has sensitivities ranging from 36% to 85%. Antigen detection assays show high sensitivity from 76.3% to 91.3% but suffer from cross-reactivity with other fungi. PCR methods offer high specificity, with sensitivity ranging from 67.6% to 100%. In immunocompromised patients, blastomycosis is often more severe, with a mortality rate exceeding 30%. Multi-modal diagnostic approaches are crucial for accurate detection and management. Full article