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ABSTRACT
This overview delves into the intricate interplay between adrenergic and cholinergic receptors in regulating heart function. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems play a powerful role in controlling cardiac function by activating adrenergic and muscarinic receptors. In the human heart, there exist α1, β1, and β2- adrenoceptors and M2-muscarinic receptors and possibly also (prejunctional) α2-adrenoceptors. The human heart has a very uniform distribution of β1 and β2-adrenoceptors and a heterogeneous distribution of M2-receptors (more receptors in the atria than the ventricles). Heart rate and contraction force increase whenever β1 and β2-adrenoceptors are stimulated, while heart rate and contraction force fall when M2 receptors are stimulated (directly in the atria and indirectly in the ventricles). The distribution of β1 and β2-adrenoceptors in the human heart can be changed by pathological conditions (like heart failure) or pharmacological interventions (like -blocker medication), nevertheless, M2-receptors are much less influenced. The intricate relationships between these receptor systems offer possible cardiovascular disease therapy strategies. More research must be conducted, focused on the complex control mechanisms that regulate cardiac function and pathology, to fully comprehend the subtleties of these signalling pathways and how they affect heart health.
ABSTRACT
The colon and rectum are the primary organs affected by colorectal cancer (CRC), which is the primary cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Inflammation, particularly in disorders like inflammatory bowel diseases, increases the risk of colorectal cancer, with environmental factors playing a crucial role. The majority of adenocarcinomas typically develop from the epithelial cells that line the colon and rectum as a result of a complex series of genetic and epigenetic modifications. Benign precursor lesions such as adenomatous polyps trigger the slow progression of CRC over a period of ten years or longer. Its etiology is influenced by sporadic, familial, and hereditary forms; prominent hereditary syndromes include Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis. Chromosome instability and microsatellite instability are the two main tumorigenic pathways that underpin the pathophysiology of CRC, exhibiting regional differences in the global epidemiology. Approaches: TNM classification is the basis for diagnosis, and various treatment modalities, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy, are employed during treatment. Surgical treatments, from minimally invasive procedures to colectomy, are essential and highlight the importance of total excision of the mesocolic region. The standard therapeutic approach consists of chemotherapy and targeted agents; however, newer like gene therapy and immunotherapy show promise. In order to improve outcomes and lessen the burden of the disease, combating CRC requires comprehensive strategies that include early detection, prevention, and innovative therapeutic interventions.
ABSTRACT
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurological disorder that affects 1-2.5% of people over the age of 50 and is typified by Tremors and bradykinesia as motor symptoms. Non-motor symptoms also have a major effect, including autonomic dysfunction and neuropsychiatric problems. Although the major reason is yet unknown, environmental and genetic variables have a role. Since there is no conclusive diagnostic test, the diagnosis is made based on clinical symptoms. The most consistent risk factor is age, with prodromal symptoms occurring before motor signs. The pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease is influenced by mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and defective protein processing. Levodopa serves as the cornerstone of treatment, which mostly consists of dopamine replacement. Developing neuroprotective PD treatments requires an understanding of the complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and mitochondrial variables.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
At present, multidrug-resistant (MDR) fungal species have become widespread worldwide, which leads to high morbidity and mortality. As of now, only a few antifungal agents are coming up in the pharmaceutical industry. This may lead to a threat to humanity for their survival. In this study, we explored the possible antifungal action of ethanolic extract of Azadirachta indica, seeds against MDR and ATCC strains of Candida species. The extract showed antifungal activities with MIC varied between 0.76 and 1.56 mg/mL in both MDR and ATCC fungal species. Thus, Azadirachta indica ethanolic seed extract is an effective antifungal agent on MDR fungal species and may help save the lives of many critically ill patients.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: This review will encompass a comprehensive examination of insulin and insulin resistance, spanning its historical background, synthesis, functions, interactions, and related clinical symptoms. Within this section, we will delve into the underlying mechanisms and various scenarios, both physiological and pathological, that contribute to insulin resistance. The prevalence of insulin resistance among adults worldwide ranges from 15.5% to 46.5%. Excessive visceral fat is considered the main cause of insulin resistance. One of the tyrosine kinase receptors belonging to the Class II (Cysteine) family is the insulin receptor (IR). Adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ, exerting influence over both glucose and lipid metabolism through the release of adipokines, pro-inflammatory factors. The transport of glucose into the interior of adipocytes relies on insulin and is facilitated by GLUT4 transporters. Adipose tissue is estimated to contribute approximately 10% of the overall glucose uptake stimulated by insulin throughout the body. The primary emphasis will be on scrutinizing insulin's functions and how insulin resistance manifests in specific bodily organs and tissues. We will also scrutinize factors like physiological, environmental, and pharmacological influences on insulin activity, along with clinical conditions associated with insulin resistance.
Original Research Article
Perspectives on Determinants of Poor Adherence to Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs amongst Patients Attending a Tuberculosis Treatment Center in South East, Nigeria
Casimir C. Ofor , Princeston C. Okam, Simon N. Ushie, Eugene O. Ohanme, Benjamin N Nwakelu, Daniel O. Aja, Godwin C. Akuodor, Uzochukwu Ofonakara, Emmanuel O. Onwujekwe
EAS J Pharm Pharmacol, 2024; 6(2): 50-59
DOI: 10.36349/easjpp.2024.v06i02.001
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ABSTRACT
Background of the study: Tuberculosis is curable and preventable as long as the infected patients take their medication as prescribed without interruption and all preventive measures observed both within the hospital and the community. Adherence to tuberculosis treatment by tuberculosis patients is key to the global control of tuberculosis. Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out at the Mile-4 hospital, a tuberculosis treatment center in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A total of 125 tuberculosis patients were recruited for the study and self-administered questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to get responses from the patients. Descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis. Results: Major reasons given for missing appointment and not following treatment schedule closely were lack of money, long distance from health facility, inadequate health education and non provision of food. Lack of money and long distance from health facility accounted for 60.9% of the reasons for not adhering to the treatment schedule by the tuberculosis patients. Conclusion: Adherence to tuberculosis treatment can be facilitated by extensive health education, minimal financial support and provision of food to tuberculosis patients. Distance from health facilities is also very important in the adherence to anti tuberculosis therapy by tuberculosis patients.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: Millions of people worldwide use alternative health care systems, and traditional medicines are a crucial part of such systems. In contrast to contemporary pharmaceuticals, which are single molecules that have undergone rigorous testing, structural optimisation, and toxicological clearance, traditionally used herbal remedies are multi-constituent medicines, the safety and efficacy of which are dependent on the experiences of the practitioners. More than 80% of contemporary medications are obtained directly from natural sources (plants, microorganisms, cells, etc.) or their molecules/compounds. Plants are becoming recognised as prospective sources for drug development. Diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal diseases are treated using a variety of conventionally used medicinal herbs. Aim & Objective: The focus of the current study is on testing P. guajava ethanolic leaf extract for its potent anti-diarrheal properties, which have been demonstrated in computer-aided simulation tests confirmed the plant's potential for antidiarrheal action. Method: A grid-based docking strategy was used to determine the binding using the Auto Dock software. Merck Molecular Force Field was used to build the 2D structures of compounds, convert them to 3D, and then energetically reduce them up to arms gradient of 0.01. (MMFF). Result: Based on previously proven effects of flavonoids and on diarrhea. Two flavonoids i.e. quercetin and quercetin-3-arbinoside which were found in the ethanolic leaf extract of P.guajava was selected as lead molecules for current investigation. So, in current study an attempt had been made to elucidate the proposed anti-diarrheal mechanism of the action of selected lead compound (flavonoids) against muscarinic- M3 receptor by in -silico molecular docking. The result of molecular docking showing binding energy -5.81 & -4.32 kcal/mol for quercetin and quercetin-3-arbinoside respectively.