Journal of Current Oncology and Medical Sciences

Investigation of exosomes in aged human fibroblasts cultured in serum-free medium

Nadia Ghobeishavi — 2024-12-31

Introduction: Exosomes are small vesicles (30 to 100 nm) crucial for intercellular communication and influence various biological and pathological processes. This study examined exosome secretion in human skin fibroblasts in vitro.

Materials and methods: Supernatants from young fibroblasts (passage 3) and aged fibroblasts (passage 12) cultured in DMEM medium, with or without 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), were collected for analysis. After confirmation of exosome presence by scanning electron microscopy, the number of exosomes was measured using flow cytometry with magnetic beads coated with a specific antibody (anti-CD81). Additionally, the protein profile of these exosomes was examined using SDS-PAGE.

Results: Electron microscopy revealed exosomes with diameters from 33 to 93 nm in fibroblast culture supernatants. Aged fibroblasts showed a significantly reduced abundance of exosomes in serum-starved conditions at 16 and 72 hours compared to controls (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in exosome abundance between young and aged fibroblasts in serum conditions. Young fibroblasts exhibited no significant differences in exosome levels across serum-starved and control groups at various time points. The concentration and mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) supported these findings. Electrophoresis showed exosome proteins ranging from 14 to 116 kDa, with no significant differences between age groups. Protein band density in serum-starved exosomes was lower than in controls, with only one exception noted.

Conclusions: In aged fibroblasts, there were no significant changes in exosome quantity or protein patterns, but under serum-starved conditions, notable differences arose. The overall number of exosomes decreases under serum deprivation, though not significantly, while protein band density significantly decreases. Aged cells continue to secrete exosomes in serum deprivation, but their protein content diminishes. This finding improves our understanding of wound healing, cancer, and cell therapy.

Quercetin as a radiosensitizer for enhanced efficacy of radiotherapy in MCF-7 breast cancer cells

Mohammad Banparvar — 2024-12-31

Introduction: Radiation therapy is a primary approach for treating cancer. Utilizing natural radiosensitizer compounds is crucial to enhance radiosensitivity in tumor tissue while minimizing damage to normal tissue. This study aims to assess the impact of quercetin as a radiosensitizing compound in MCF-7 cells.

Materials and Methods: This research examined the impact of quercetin at concentrations of 20, 40, and 60 μM with and without radiation (2 and 3 Gy) on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line as a radiosensitizer agent. The investigation employed a micronucleus test, clonogenic assay, and assessments of Superoxide-dismutase and catalase activity.

Results: The findings indicated that the group exposed to radiation exhibited a significant decrease in the number of colonies (P < 0.0001) and activity of SOD and CAT enzymes while showing a significant increase in the number of micronuclei compared to the control group (P < 0.0001). Additionally, in all the groups treated with quercetin and exposed to radiation, there was a notable increase in micronuclei and a significant decrease in the number of colonies and activity of CAT and SOD enzymes.

Conclusions: The study's findings demonstrated that quercetin has the ability to increase the sensitivity of MCF-7 breast cancer cells to ionizing radiation in a manner that depends on the dosage.

Effect of inter-personal communication on cervical cancer knowledge and prevention among women in Rural Bengaluru, India

Garima Kumari — 2024-12-31

Introduction: Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer among women worldwide. In 2012, 528,000 new cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed globally, 85% of which were in less developed countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia (including India) and Central and South American countries. Currently, cervical cancer is the 2^nd leading cause of cancer deaths in India which approximately accounts to 1/3^rd of the global cervical cancer deaths. High-risk types are HPV16 & 18 and they account for more than 90% of cervical carcinoma and the route of transmission is mainly by sexual contact, which can be prevented by health education. The present study was conducted among rural reproductive women where the prevalence of cervical cancer is high and can be prevented by using a simple intervention method of health education.

Materials and Methods: An interventional, community-based comparative study was conducted among 388 women of reproductive age residing in Whitefield, Bengaluru, over a period of one and a half years (May 2016 – October 2017). The pre-tested, semi-structured (Questionnaire) data collection tool was used to collect data before and after intervention (IPC).

Results: Out of 388 women who participated in the study, the majority 223 (57.48%) belonged to the age group of 15-29 years. The awareness about cervical cancer significantly improved post-intervention (IPC). 26.29% had underdone pap smear examination for cervical cancer post-intervention compared to only 18.04% pre-intervention. The findings suggest a significant improvement in awareness and screening practices post-intervention.

Conclusion: The findings of the study suggest that there was a positive impact of Interpersonal Communication on the overall increase in knowledge regarding Cervical cancer and its prevention among the women of reproductive age group in the study

Predictive value of hematologic indices in COVID-19 disease outcomes

Fatemeh Nejatifar — 2024-12-31

Introduction: COVID-19 was declared a worldwide concern for public health in January 2020 by the World Health Organization. Most patients manifest mild symptoms. In more severe cases it can lead to sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome and other organ dysfunction. Lymphopenia, increased inflammatory markers and dysregulated liver enzymes are observed in many patients and is related to higher mortality rates.
Materials and Methods: We evaluated two hundred and sixty-eight patients in this study. All patients had dyspnea, and O2 saturation below 93% and were tested positive for COVID-19 through RT-PCR. Patients’ demographic, clinical and paraclinical information were obtained on admission and disease outcomes were assessed based on these data. The evaluated indices were previously shown to be altered in patients with different disease outcomes.
Results: From a total of 268 included patients, 40% had severe disease, 29% were admitted to ICU, 22% required mechanical ventilation and 24% died during hospitalization. WBC counts, neutrophil counts, NLR, serum LDH activity and serum albumin levels were the most powerful factors in predicting disease outcomes.
Conclusion: COVID-19 disease severity and outcomes were affected by hematologic indices and laboratory results.

Psychometric evaluation and factor structure of the Persian coping strategies questionnaire in chronic low back pain patients

Sarvenaz Karimi-GhasemAbad — 2024-12-31

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CSQ) in Persian in people with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP).

Materials and methods: Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were employed to determine the CSQ's factor structure. Reliability was assessed using the Intraclass Coefficient and Cronbach's Alpha.

Results: 13 variables, accounting for 74.94% of the total variance, were identified using EFA; based on Parallel Analysis, the first four components—ignoring pain sensations, praying, diverting attention, and catastrophizing—were kept. A sufficient model fit was not shown by the CFA results (χ²/df = 1.77, CFI = 0.884, TLI = 0.84, and RMSEA = 0.081). All subscales had Cronbach's alpha and test-retest reliability between 0.75 and 0.88 and 0.7 and 0.83, respectively.

Conclusion: According to the study's findings, there are four-factor structures in the Persian version. Additionally, it was stated that the item-total correlations, agreement, and test-retest reliability were all at a good and acceptable level.

Fiber-optic bronchoscopy for diagnosing hilar masses of the lung: a study from a tertiary care cardiothoracic and vascular centre in northeastern India

James Thiek — 2024-12-31

Introduction: Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy is an important tool at a clinician's disposal for managing various pulmonary pathologies both benign and malignant. Its sensitivity and specificity highly depend on the site of the pulmonary lesion with central lesions providing better results than peripheral ones. The procedure is usually well tolerated if done properly with most complications being amendable to conservative management. Specially for hilar masses of the lung bronchoscopy not only allows for obtaining biopsy tissue but also evaluation of the anatomy for operative planning.

Materials and methods: Herein we review the findings and complications of Bronchoscopy done for Hilar masses at our institute from 01/05/23 to 01/12/23. In our study we included patients who had hilar lung masses on imaging and patients who did not have prior biopsy/FNAC. Patients with peripheral lung lesions and patients who had a performance status of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group more than 2 were excluded from the study.

Results: The results for the 20 cases taken up for bronchoscopy were as follows: A definite lesion could be identified for biopsy in 14 cases, and samples biopsied and sent for HPE (Histopathological evaluation) and IHC (immunohistochemistry) were mostly adequate. The sensitivity of bronchoscopy was found to be 70%. The procedure was well tolerated and of the total number of patients taken up for bronchoscopic biopsy only two patients had complications and these complications were managed conservatively without the need for further procedure.

Conclusion: In this study bronchoscopy and biopsy were found to be a safe and effective tool in the management of hilar masses of lung. The study is not without limitations though which include the short study duration, limited sample size, and absence of bronchoscopic ultrasound technology at our institute.

Prescribing clarity: mapping the link between antihypertensives and breast cancer

Shadman Newaz — 2024-12-31

Introduction: The relationship between antihypertensive medication and breast cancer outcomes remains a subject of growing interest in clinical research. This systematic review aims to evaluate the potential associations between antihypertensives and breast cancer outcomes, providing a detailed synthesis of current evidence and identifying areas for future research.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of studies published between January 2014 and January 2024, in accordance with a registered protocol on the Open Science Framework. Multiple databases were searched for English-language studies of various designs, including clinical trials, cohort studies, and observational studies. A total of 51 studies were selected from 1,591 records after a rigorous screening process. The review focused on summarizing the evidence without formal quality appraisal, adhering to the scope of this review.

Results: Our review identified potential links between certain antihypertensive classes, such as ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers, and breast cancer outcomes. The findings indicate that specific antihypertensive medications may influence breast cancer-specific mortality, recurrence rates, and overall survival. The role of the Renin-Angiotensin System and genetic predispositions emerged as important factors in these associations. However, the review also highlights substantial evidence gaps, particularly regarding long-term outcomes and the interaction between antihypertensive treatment and breast cancer biology.

Conclusion: This systematic review contributes to a better understanding of the complex relationship between antihypertensive medications and breast cancer outcomes. Key findings suggest that healthcare providers should consider the potential implications of specific antihypertensive drugs in patients with breast cancer. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials with extended follow-up are recommended to clarify these associations and inform clinical guidelines. Our findings underscore the importance of personalized treatment approaches and adherence to cardiovascular regimens in this patient population.

The ketogenic diet as a promising adjunctive therapy for glioma: a comprehensive review

Arman Hamzei — 2024-12-31

Gliomas are the most prevalent primary tumors of the brain and spinal cord. Regrettably, the prognosis, especially for high-grade gliomas, remains quite bleak. In recent decades, there's been a growing trend to replace or combine radiotherapy with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and personalized treatment for different patients. For example, carboplatin and vincristine are considered standard treatments for some patients with unresectable pediatric low-grade gliomas. In recent years, ketogenic diet (KD) has emerged as a promising investigational therapy for CNS tumors, with researchers exploring its use in conjunction with existing treatment modalities. This review article delves into the mechanisms underlying KD's potential therapeutic effects on glioma and its efficacy, safety profile, and overall role in glioma treatment.

Targeting multiple cancers: exploring the potential role of stem cells in treating 10 distinct types

Munawar Ali — 2024-12-31

Stem cell research has gained significant prominence due to its therapeutic potential in addressing diseases that are difficult to treat with conventional therapies, particularly cancer. Cancer remains a global health crisis responsible for one in six deaths worldwide and is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth, metastasis, and a generalized loss of growth control. Traditional cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, have limitations, such as damaging healthy cells and tissues, and are often associated with cancer recurrence and metastasis. In response to these challenges, stem cell technology has emerged as a promising frontier, offering novel approaches to target and eliminate cancer cells while potentially reducing the side effects associated with conventional therapies. This review explores the biochemical properties of stem cells and their potential applications in treating ten distinct types of cancer. We analyze each cancer type to understand the potential use of stem cells in treatment. The article aims to contribute the growing body of knowledge and provide insights into the future directions of stem cell research in oncology.

Parasite in the brain: the role of Toxoplasma gondii in brain cancer and neuropsychiatric disorders

Peyman Rabiei — 2024-12-31

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a protozoan parasite that affects about one-third of the world's human population, frequently creating a dormant presence in the brain. Recent studies have placed growing emphasis on the possible consequences of T. gondii infection concerning brain cancer and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. This review consolidates recent discoveries regarding how T. gondii could affect neurological well-being, especially its capacity to modify neurotransmitter pathways, adjust immune reactions, and provoke neuroinflammation. We examine the epidemiological links between T. gondii seropositivity and different psychiatric disorders, highlighting the necessity for additional research into the causal mechanisms connecting this parasite to brain pathology. Moreover, we investigate the possibility of T. gondii as a co-factor in developing brain tumors, emphasizing its function in immune evasion and modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Grasping these connections is essential for creating focused therapeutic approaches and public health measures designed to reduce the impact of T. gondii infection on mental health and neuro-oncology.

Calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus tendon treated with iontophoresis: a case report

Sarvenaz Karimi-GhasemAbad — 2024-12-31

Introduction: In particular, calcium hydroxyapatite crystals that are frequently deposited within the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons are the cause of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, an acute or chronic painful condition brought on by calcific deposits inside or around the rotator cuff tendons.

Case presentation: A 46-year-old patient arrived at the clinic complaining of excruciating pain and significant movement impairment. Calcific tendonitis was diagnosed during a clinical assessment. Iontophoresis using a 5% acetic acid solution was applied three times a week for ten sessions as part of the treatment.

Discussion: Various studies have identified 5% acetic acid iontophoresis as an effective intervention for calcific tendinitis-associated pain. Additionally, this treatment modality was partially responsible for the reduction in calcific deposits.

Conclusion: Ten sessions of iontophoresis therapy using a 5% acetic acid solution were conducted. Following completion, there was a full recovery of shoulder range of motion, a complete clearance of calcific deposits, and no pain.