Search Results (2,190)

People with cystic fibrosis may experience polypharmacy, which can increase the risk of drug induced complications such as adverse events and drug–drug interactions. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of adverse events and to identify potential drug–drug interactions associated with elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI). Three databases, the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration Database of Adverse Event Notification (TGA DAEN), the Canada Vigilance Adverse Reaction Online Database (CVAROD), and the USA Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) Database were searched for spontaneous ETI adverse events between 2019 and 2024. Descriptive analysis of the data was undertaken. The FAERS database was analysed to identify adverse events of interest such as anxiety and depression and concomitant drugs prescribed with ETI. A total of 10,628 ETI associated adverse events were identified in all system organ classes. The incidence of psychiatric adverse events ranged from 7 to 15% across the three databases. Potential drug–drug interactions with CYP 3A4/5 strong inhibitors and strong inducers were identified from the FAERS database and azole antifungals were implicated in several ETI dose modifications. The prevalence and types of ETI adverse events were varied and use of concomitant drugs with potential drug interactions was significant, requiring more research to manage them. Full article

Background: Sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), initially developed as antihyperglycemic agents, have emerged as multifunctional therapeutics with profound cardiorenal and metabolic benefits. Their unique insulin-independent mechanism, targeting renal glucose reabsorption, distinguishes them from conventional antidiabetic drugs. Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence: SGLT2is induce glycosuria, reduce hyperglycemia, and promote weight loss through increased caloric excretion. Beyond glycemic control, they modulate tubuloglomerular feedback, attenuate glomerular hyperfiltration, and exert systemic effects via natriuresis, ketone utilization, and anti-inflammatory pathways. Landmark trials (DAPA-HF, EMPEROR-Reduced, CREDENCE, DAPA-CKD) demonstrate robust reductions in heart failure (HF) hospitalizations, cardiovascular mortality, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression, irrespective of diabetes status. Adipose Tissue and Metabolic Effects: SGLT2is mitigate obesity-associated adiposopathy by shifting macrophage polarization (M1 to M2), reducing proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), and enhancing adipose tissue browning (UCP1 upregulation) and mitochondrial biogenesis (via PGC-1α/PPARα). Modest weight loss (~2–4 kg) occurs, though compensatory hyperphagia may limit long-term effects. Emerging Applications: Potential roles in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and neurodegenerative disorders are under investigation, driven by pleiotropic effects on metabolism and inflammation. Conclusions: SGLT2is represent a paradigm shift in managing T2DM, HF, and CKD, with expanding implications for metabolic syndrome. Future research should address interindividual variability, combination therapies, and non-glycemic indications to optimize their therapeutic potential. Full article

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) represents a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Despite significant advances in treatment achieved over recent decades, as well as various therapeutic strategies available to manage IHD progression currently, the global incidence of this disorder remains high. This review examines essential cell biology aspects of adenosine receptors (ARs), along with the effects of known synthetic small-molecule AR ligands, to provide an up-to-date view on the therapeutic potential towards IHD treatment. In particular, we report here advancements made on a selection of AR synthetic ligands that have demonstrated efficacy in pre-clinical or clinical studies, thereby holding promise as new therapeutic candidates in the field of IHD. Although this work adds further evidence that clinically valid small-molecule therapeutic agents targeting ARs exist, their use represents an emerging area, with most drug prototypes still in the pre-clinical developmental stage and many lacking large-scale clinical trials. The future lies in identifying improved AR synthetic ligands with enhanced efficacy and selectivity, as well as reduced adverse side effects, along with establishing a platform of specific and diversified pre-clinical tests, to inform in turn the resulting clinical investigations. Full article

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) are complex, multifactorial disorders with no known cure, necessitating lifelong care and often leading to surgical interventions. This ongoing healthcare requirement, coupled with the increased use of biological drugs and rising disease prevalence, significantly increases the financial burden on the healthcare systems. Thus, a number of novel technological approaches have emerged in order to face some of the pivotal questions still associated with IBD. In navigating the intricate landscape of IBD, biosensors act as indispensable allies, bridging the gap between traditional diagnostic methods and the evolving demands of precision medicine. Continuous progress in biosensor technology holds the key to transformative breakthroughs in IBD management, offering more effective and patient-centric healthcare solutions considering the One Health Approach. Here, we will delve into the landscape of biomarkers utilized in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of IBD. From well-established serological and fecal markers to emerging genetic and epigenetic markers, we will explore the role of these biomarkers in aiding clinical decision-making and predicting treatment response. Additionally, we will discuss the potential of novel biomarkers currently under investigation to further refine disease stratification and personalized therapeutic approaches in IBD. By elucidating the utility of biosensors across the spectrum of IBD care, we aim to highlight their importance as valuable tools in optimizing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Full article

Candidiasis arises from the proliferation of Candida species in the human body, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. Efficient therapeutic management of candidiasis is often hampered by the limited availability of potent antifungal drugs and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. We have previously identified the N-[(4-sulfamoylphenyl)methyl][1,1′-biphenyl]-4-carboxamide to have fungistatic and fungicidal properties, likely due to the hydrophobic biphenyl–chemical features affecting the structural organization of Candida spp. cell membrane. Here, we designed and synthesized a novel series of twelve 5-arylfuran-2-carboxamide derivatives bearing a new hydrophobic tail as bioisosteric replacement of the diphenyl fragment. Its antifungal effectiveness against C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. parapsilosis, including ATCC and clinically isolated strains, was assessed for all compounds. The most active compound was N-benzyl-5-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)furan-2-carboxamide (6), with fungistatic and fungicidal effects against C. glabrata and C. parapsilosis strains (MIC = 0.062–0.125 and 0.125–0.250 mg/mL, respectively). No synergistic effects were observed when combined with fluconazole. Interestingly, fluorescent microscopy analysis after staining with SYTO 9 and propidium iodide revealed that compound 6 affected the cell membrane integrity in C. albicans strain 16. Finally, carboxamide 6 exhibited a dose-dependent cytotoxicity on erythrocytes, based on assessing the LDH release. Full article

Arginine kinase is a key phosphagen kinase in invertebrates that facilitates rapid ATP regeneration by reversibly transferring phosphate groups between phosphoarginine and ADP. Structural studies have shown that the enzyme adopts distinct conformations in its ligand-free and ligand-bound states, known as the “open” and “closed” forms, respectively. These conformational changes are crucial for catalytic activity, enabling precise positioning of active-site residues and loop closure during phosphoryl transfer. Transition-state analog complexes have provided additional insights by mimicking intermediate states of catalysis, supporting the functional relevance of the open/closed structural model. Furthermore, studies across multiple species reveal how monomeric and dimeric forms of arginine kinase contribute to its allosteric regulation and substrate specificity. Beyond its metabolic role, arginine kinase is also recognized as a major allergen in crustaceans. Its structural uniqueness and absence in vertebrates make it a promising candidate for selective drug targeting. By integrating crystallographic data with functional context, this review highlights conserved features and species-specific variations of arginine kinase that may inform the design of inhibitors. Such molecules have the potential to serve both as antiparasitic agents and as novel therapeutics to manage crustacean-related allergic responses in humans. Full article

Background: Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a rare autoimmune orbital disorder predominantly associated with Graves’ disease. It is characterized by orbital inflammation, tissue remodeling, and potential visual morbidity. Conventional therapies, particularly systemic glucocorticoids, offer only partial symptomatic relief, failing to reverse chronic structural changes such as proptosis and diplopia, and are associated with substantial adverse effects. This review aims to synthesize recent developments in understandings of TED pathogenesis and to critically evaluate emerging therapeutic strategies. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, and international clinical trial registries focusing on pivotal clinical trials and investigational therapies targeting core molecular pathways involved in TED. Results: Current evidence suggests that TED pathogenesis is primarily driven by the autoimmune activation of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) through thyrotropin receptor (TSH-R) and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) signaling. Teprotumumab, a monoclonal IGF-1R inhibitor and the first therapy approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for TED, has demonstrated substantial clinical benefit, including improvements in proptosis, diplopia, and quality of life. However, concerns remain regarding relapse rates and treatment-associated adverse events, particularly hearing impairment. Investigational therapies, including next-generation IGF-1R inhibitors, small-molecule antagonists, TSH-R inhibitors, neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blockers, cytokine-targeting agents, and gene-based interventions, are under development. These novel approaches aim to address both inflammatory and fibrotic components of TED. Conclusions: Teprotumumab has changed TED management but sustained control and toxicity reduction remain challenges. Future therapies should focus on targeted, mechanism-based, personalized approaches to improve long-term outcomes and patient quality of life. Full article

Nanotechnology offers innovative methodologies for enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer by utilizing specialized nanoparticles. The utilization of nanoparticles offers distinct advantages, specifically that these entities enhance the bioavailability of therapeutic agents and facilitate the targeted delivery of pharmacological agents to neoplastic cells. A diverse array of nanoparticles, including but not limited to liposomes, dendrimers, and gold nanoparticles, function as proficient carriers for drug delivery. Nevertheless, notwithstanding the auspicious potential of these applications, challenges pertaining to toxicity, biocompatibility, and the necessity for comprehensive clinical evaluations pose considerable barriers to the widespread implementation of these technologies. The incorporation of nanotechnology into clinical practice holds the promise of significantly transforming the management of ovarian cancer, offering novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies that enhance patient outcomes and prognoses. In summary, the deployment of nanotechnology in the context of ovarian cancer epitomizes a revolutionary paradigm in medical science, amalgamating sophisticated materials and methodologies to enhance both diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes. Continued research and development endeavors are essential to fully realize the extensive potential of these innovative solutions and address the existing challenges associated with their application in clinical settings. Full article

Obesity is a chronic disorder associated with serious comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Conventional pharmacological treatments often suffer from limited efficacy, poor selectivity, and undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for more effective alternatives. Nanomedicine offers a promising approach by overcoming these limitations through targeted drug delivery and enhanced therapeutic precision. This review examines key nanotechnological strategies in obesity management, including targeting white adipose tissue (WAT) and the vascular marker prohibitin, promoting WAT browning, and utilizing photothermal therapy and magnetic hyperthermia as nanotheranostic tools. We discuss major nanomedicine platforms—such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, and polymeric nanoparticles—alongside emerging applications in gene nanotherapy and herbal formulations. Potential toxicity concerns are also addressed. In summary, nanomedicine holds substantial potential to revolutionize obesity treatment through targeted, effective, and multifunctional therapeutic strategies. Full article

Background: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic and disabling psychiatric condition characterized by recurring episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. Despite the availability of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, long-term management remains challenging due to incomplete symptom control, adverse effects, and high relapse rates. Methods: This paper is a narrative review aimed at synthesizing emerging trends and future directions in the pharmacological treatment of BD. Results: Future pharmacotherapy for BD is likely to shift toward precision medicine, leveraging advances in genetics, biomarkers, and neuroimaging to guide personalized treatment strategies. Novel drug development will also target previously underexplored mechanisms, such as inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, circadian rhythm disturbances, and glutamatergic dysregulation. Physiological endophenotypes, such as immune-metabolic profiles, circadian rhythms, and stress reactivity, are emerging as promising translational tools for tailoring treatment and reducing associated somatic comorbidity and mortality. Recognition of the heterogeneous longitudinal trajectories of BD, including chronic mixed states, long depressive episodes, or intermittent manic phases, has underscored the value of clinical staging models to inform both pharmacological strategies and biomarker research. Disrupted circadian rhythms and associated chronotypes further support the development of individualized chronotherapeutic interventions. Emerging chronotherapeutic approaches based on individual biological rhythms, along with innovative monitoring strategies such as saliva-based lithium sensors, are reshaping the future landscape. Anti-inflammatory agents, neurosteroids, and compounds modulating oxidative stress are emerging as promising candidates. Additionally, medications targeting specific biological pathways implicated in bipolar pathophysiology, such as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor modulators, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and neuropeptides, are under investigation. Conclusions: Advances in pharmacogenomics will enable clinicians to predict individual responses and tolerability, minimizing trial-and-error prescribing. The future landscape may also incorporate digital therapeutics, combining pharmacotherapy with remote monitoring and data-driven adjustments. Ultimately, integrating innovative drug therapies with personalized approaches has the potential to enhance efficacy, reduce adverse effects, and improve long-term outcomes for individuals with bipolar disorder, ushering in a new era of precision psychiatry. Full article

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, with pathophysiological mechanisms often involving platelet activation and chronic inflammation. While antiplatelet agents targeting adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-mediated pathways are well established in CVD management, less is known about drug interactions with the platelet-activating factor (PAF) pathway, a key mediator of inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of several commonly used cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory drug classes—including clopidogrel, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), β-blockers, and analgesics—on platelet function via both the ADP and PAF pathways. Using human platelet-rich plasma (hPRP) from healthy donors, we assessed platelet aggregation in response to these two agonists in the absence and presence of graded concentrations of each of these drugs or of their usually prescribed combinations. The study identified differential drug effects on platelet aggregation, with some agents showing pathway-specific activity. Clopidogrel and NSAIDs demonstrated expected antiplatelet effects, while some (not all) antihypertensives exhibited additional anti-inflammatory potential. These findings highlight the relevance of evaluating pharmacological activity beyond traditional targets, particularly in relation to PAF-mediated inflammation and thrombosis. This dual-pathway analysis may contribute to a broader understanding of drug mechanisms and inform the development of more comprehensive therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular, hypertension, and inflammation-driven diseases. Full article

Depression is a common mental disorder with high economic burden, characterized by high disability and mortality rates. The etiology of depression remains unclear to date, and there are various hypotheses regarding the pathogenesis of depression in clinical practice, including the monoamine neurotransmitter hypothesis, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation hypothesis, the inflammatory cytokine hypothesis, and the neurotrophic factor hypothesis. These theories offer specific directional aid in the clinical management of individuals suffering from depression. Medicinal intervention stands as a critical approach within the spectrum of depression treatments, and this article reviews the specific mechanisms of different hypotheses on the pathogenesis of depression in recent years, as well as the research progress on related therapeutic drugs. Full article

Background/Objectives: Primary liver cancer (PLC), encompassing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), constitutes a growing global health concern. Metabolic dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represent a recurrent epidemiological overlap. Individuals with MASLD and T2DM (MASLD-T2DM) are at a higher risk of PLC. This scoping review highlights the epidemiological burden, the classic and novel pathogenetic frontiers, and the potential strategies optimizing the management of PLC in MASLD-T2DM. Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed, Medline, and SCOPUS electronic databases was conducted to identify evidence investigating the pathogenetic mechanisms linking MASLD and T2DM to hepatic carcinogenesis, highlighting the most relevant targets and the relatively emerging therapeutic strategies. The search algorithm included in sequence the filter words: “MASLD”, “liver steatosis”, “obesity”, “metabolic syndrome”, “body composition”, “insulin resistance”, “inflammation”, “oxidative stress”, “metabolic dysfunction”, “microbiota”, “glucose”, “immunometabolism”, “trained immunity”. Results: In the MASD-T2DM setting, insulin resistance (IR) and IR-induced mechanisms (including chronic inflammation, insulin/IGF-1 axis dysregulation, and autophagy), simultaneously with the alterations of gut microbiota composition and functioning, represent crucial pathogenetic factors in hepatocarcinogenesis. Besides, the glucose-related metabolic reprogramming emerged as a crucial pathogenetic moment contributing to cancer progression and immune evasion. In this scenario, lifestyle changes, simultaneously with antidiabetic drugs targeting IR-related effects and gut-liver axis, in parallel with novel approaches modulating immunometabolic pathways, represent promising strategies. Conclusions: Metabolic dysfunction, classically featuring MASLD-T2DM, constitutes a continuously expanding global issue, as well as a critical driver in PLC progression, demanding integrated and personalized interventions to reduce the future burden of disease. Full article

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disorder primarily targeting joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. RA results from the body’s own immune system attacking its own tissues. Currently, there are various treatments available for RA including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and NSAIDs. Leflunomide (LEF) is a USFDA-approved synthetic DMARD which is being widely prescribed for the management of RA; however, it faces several challenges such as prolonged drug elimination, hepatotoxicity, and others. LEF exerts its therapeutic effects by inhibiting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), thereby suppressing pyrimidine synthesis and modulating immune responses. Emerging nanotechnology-based therapies help in encountering the current challenges faced in LEF delivery to RA patients. This review enlists the LEF’s pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, and clinical efficacy in RA management. A comparative analysis with methotrexate, biologics, and other targeted therapies, highlighting its role in monotherapy and combination regimens and the safety concerns, including hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal effects, and teratogenicity, is discussed alongside recommended monitoring strategies. Additionally, emerging trends in novel formulations and drug delivery approaches are explored to enhance efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Overall, LEF remains a perfect remedy for RA patients, specifically individuals contraindicated with drugs like methotrexate. The therapeutic applicability of LEF could be enhanced by developing more customized treatments and advanced drug delivery approaches. Full article

Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is a disease caused by the deposition of transthyretin-derived fibrils in the body. Despite extensive research conducted over the years, there are currently only four drugs available in clinical use to treat this condition, two of which are repurposed drugs used off-label. However, these treatments present several limitations; therefore, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic options. In this context, dietary supplements containing natural compounds capable of stabilizing the transthyretin (TTR) protein could represent a promising approach to contrast the disease progression, potentially supporting the therapeutic effects of the aforementioned drugs. In light of this, the present review highlights and analyzes the natural compounds that have most recently been reported in the literature as TTR stabilizers. In particular, the studies elucidating the potential of these compounds in the treatment of ATTR, along with the available crystallographic data explaining their binding mode to TTR, are reported. Overall, although the use of natural compounds as supplements shows promise in managing ATTR, further research is still needed to explore its feasibility and confirm its effectiveness. Hopefully, this work will help shed light on these issues and serve as a useful starting point for the development of new strategies to treat this disease. Full article