Scripta Medica

Retinoic Acid Delivery via Ultraflexible Nanovesicular System for the Management of Posterior Segment Ocular Diseases

Vandana Gupta — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: The ongoing perusal centred on formulating and analysing ultraflexible nanovesicular system ie nano-transfersomes for carrying retinoic acid locally to the deeper, posterior regions of the optic

Methods: The composition of transfersomes were refined and evaluated by different criteria such as vesicle diameter and distribution, surface charge, encapsulation capacity, surface morphology, viscosity and pH, Additional analyses included drug release behaviour in simulated tear fluid (STF), 3 month stability analysis and ocular safety test using hen’s egg test chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM).

Results: The ideal blend (F12) showed the median of vesicle diameter 155.32 ± 4.45 nm, scaled by the light scattering process (Malvern Zetasiser, ZEM 5002, UK), The Zeta potential measured approximately -36.5mV, signifying a negative surface charge, which consequently resulted in the absence of particle aggregation. The % entrapment efficiency for the different formulations ranged from 65.45 ± 1.27 to 79.12 ± 2.23. Nano-transfersomes displayed a spherical and elastic morphology, characterised by either unilamellar or multilamellar vesicle structures. The viscosity and pH of retinoic acid loaded nano-transfersomal formulations were measured to be approximately 20.0 ± 2.1 to 48.0 ± 1.8 cP and range of 5.0 ± 0.5 to 7.0 ± 0.1, respectively. The drug release profile in STF was observed to be 98.89 ± 0.45 after 24 h.

Conclusion: The drug release profile of retinoic acid loaded ultraflexible nanovesicular system indicating a sustained release pattern. According to storage stability studies, the formulation exhibited greater stability under refrigerated conditions. Research findings suggested that the nano-transfersomal formulation loaded with retinoic acid could provide prolonged release and stable nano transfersome formulation with suitable physico-chemical characteristics facilitating its easy application to the eye. Nano-transfersome might be an innovative approach for delivering retinoic acid to the eye, particularly for treating diseases affecting the posterior segment, due to its distinctive properties such as flexibility, prolonged drug release and reduced size.

Geriatric Diabetes Care: Prescribing Practices and Drug Utilisation at a Teaching Hospital

Rahul Kumar — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Diabetes is increasingly recognised as a major health concern worldwide, affecting around 537 million adults and causing approximately 6.7 million deaths annually. In India alone, 74.9 million individuals had diabetes in 2021 and this figure could rise to 124.9 million by 2045. Older adults (aged 60 and above) are particularly affected, with 14.3 % of them living with type 2 diabetes. Managing diabetes among the elderly is complicated, as they often have other health conditions and are on multiple medications, which can lead to issues such as polypharmacy and harmful drug or food interactions. Consequently, it is crucial to examine how diabetes medications are being prescribed for this age group.

Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among geriatric patients (≥ 60 years) at a tertiary care teaching Hospital in Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, over six months from December 2024 to May 2025. Study samples were selected through systematic random sampling and each prescription was evaluated to analyse prescribing patterns, polypharmacy and drug interactions. Additionally, patient’s quality of life was assessed.

Results: A total of 185 patients participated in the study, including 96 males (51.9 %) and 89 females (48.1 %), with a mean age of 66.58 ± 6.26 years. Metformin was the most commonly prescribed monotherapy, followed by glimepiride, human insulin and dapagliflozin. The most frequent combination therapy was metformin with vildagliptin (17.2 %). Hypertension (22.7 %) was the most prevalent comorbidity. Polypharmacy was observed in 80 % of patients, drug-drug interactions in 84.3 % and food-drug interactions in 29.9 %. The average quality-of-life score was 67.74 ± 13.53 %, with lower scores among those aged over 80.

Conclusion: The study highlights prevalent polypharmacy, drug interactions and comorbidities among elderly diabetics, emphasising the need for rational prescribing to enhance treatment efficacy, minimise adverse effects and improve quality of life. Overall, the study underscores the importance of rational prescribing and optimised drug use in elderly diabetic patients to improve outcomes and reduce adverse effects.

Silybin Attenuates Neurobehavioural Impairments and Secondary Brain Damage Following Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice

Hemlata Bhardwaj — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a neurodegenerative disorder resulting in temporary or permanent impairment of cognitive, physical and psychosocial functions. Presently no treatment is available to overcome TBI. Flavonoids can be utilised for treatment of TBI due to their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective potential of silybin against secondary cascade of TBI.

Methods: TBI induced by weight drop model of trauma has been utilised to assess the neuroprotective effect of silybin at the doses 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg in mice. After 30 min of injury, silybin was administered. The effect of silybin was observed on neurobehaviour (Morris’s water maze test, beam walk and beam balance), blood brain barrier permeability (BBB), brain oedema and mitochondrial dysfunction after 24 h and 21 days of drug administration. The study of interaction of silybin with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) by using PDB: 3QEL was evaluated by molecular docking.

Results: Silybin significantly improved the neurological behaviours such as motor coordination and learning and memory. Silybin significantly decreased the BBB permeability, brain oedema and mitochondrial dysfunction. Molecular docking studies showed the significant interactions of silybin with target residues MET 207, THR174, TYR175, PHE 176, PRO177, GLU236,THR233, GLU106, ALA107, GLN110, ASP136, ALA135, MET134 of PDB: 3QEL.

Conclusion: Silybin provides novel insights into the neuroprotective and therapeutic potential for TBI.

Distribution of CD15- and CD31-Positive Cells in the Oesophageal Mucosa of Children With Eosinophilic Oesophagitis Across Different Age and Sex Groups

Grigory Demyashkin — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the oesophagus with a multifactorial nature. The prognosis and effectiveness of therapy for EoE largely depend on a detailed study of its pathogenetic mechanisms. To clarify the severity of the inflammatory process, along with routine histological methods, a comprehensive immunohistochemical examination of the oesophageal mucosa was performed. To verify the intensity of tissue alterations, the marker CD15 was used and to assess the state of the vascular bed and the degree of vascularisation, the endothelial marker CD31 was employed. The aim of this research was to determine the morphometric features of the inflammatory process and tissue vascularisation in EoE in children of different age and sex groups.

Methods: A retrospective study included 94 children with EoE (ICD-10: K20), stratified into three age subgroups: Subgroup A (3–7 years), Subgroup B (8–12 years) and Subgroup C (13–18 years). The study utilised clinical data and morphological methods (general histology, histochemical reactions – Masson's trichrome and Periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) and immunohistochemical analysis for CD15 and CD31) for examining biopsy material from the oesophageal mucosa.

Results: Distinct age- and sex-dependent patterns were identified. In male patients, peak CD15+ cell density was recorded in Subgroup A, demonstrating a significant 1.57-fold decrease toward the adolescent group (p < 0.05). Conversely, female patients demonstrated the lowest CD15+ density in Subgroup A, with a significant 1.89-fold increase in Subgroup C (p < 0.05), where female CD15+ density exceeded males by 1.94 times (p < 0.05). All assessed microvascular parameters progressively increased from Subgroup A to C in both sexes (p < 0.05). When comparing by sex in the older age cohort, the microvascular density in girls significantly exceeded that in boys by 1.18 times (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: EoE in children is characterised by distinct age- and sex-dependent inflammatory and structural changes in the oesophageal mucosa. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed prominent epithelial CD15 expression reflecting the intensity of cellular alteration and CD31+ endothelial reactivity reflecting a microvascular response during the development of the disease. The results underscore the importance of comprehensive diagnostics, including detailed morphological, histological and immunohistochemical evaluation of the mucosa, which may provide valuable insights for improving diagnostic strategies and monitoring disease progression.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Euphorbia Microsphaera: Tuning Size and Stability Via Precursor Concentration

Ahmed Qays Hasan — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by plant extracts provides an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical methods. This study aimed to report the biosynthesis of AgNPs using Euphorbia microsphaera, a native plant of the Middle East and to investigate how different precursor concentrations affect the physicochemical properties of the synthesised nanoparticles.

Methods: The methanolic extracts prepared from E microsphaera leaves were employed for the fabrication of AgNPs at varying precursor concentrations such as 1, 3 and 5 mM in silver nitrate (AgNO₃). The formation of NPs was observed visually and by measurement with UV-VIS spectroscopy. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) was used to determine the hydrodynamic size, polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential. Morphological and elemental analyses were conducted by utilising scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).

Results: A clear colour change from pale yellow to dark crimson pink suggested a successful biosynthesis of AgNPs. UV-Vis spectroscopic analysis showed a distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 452.5 nm for the 1 mM sample, indicating the formation of small, monodispersed nanoparticles. In contrast, at 5 mM, a pronounced red shift to 530.5 nm was observed, accompanied by a substantial increase in hydrodynamic size from 238.8 nm to more than 2000 nm. TEM and SEM images supported the results obtained from UV–vis, depicts a well-dispersed spherical shaped nanoparticles in size range 20–50 nm at concentration of 1 mM, whereas 5 mM showed massive agglomeration associated to the saturation of the capping agent.

Conclusion: This study successfully showed the green synthesis of AgNPs by using E microsphaera. The results revealed the significant effect of precursor concentration on nanoparticle stability and 1 mM was found to be the optimal value for high stability of monodisperse nanoparticles. E microsphaera can be considered as a promising bio-resource for nanotechnology in the biomedicine area.

Predictive Value of Protein Kinase C Delta as a Diagnostic Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hepatitis C Virus-Related Cirrhosis

Heba Amer — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered the 6th prevalent tumour and 3rd leading cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Protein kinase C delta (PKCδ), released by liver cancer cells, has an effect in cell-proliferation and cancer formation, recommending PKCδ can serve as a good biomarker in HCC detection. The aim of this research was the assessment of predictive value of PKCδ as a diagnostic biomarker for HCC in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis.

Methods: The study involved 180 participants, who were separated into three groups, the first control group included 45 healthy volunteers, the second cirrhotic without HCC group (non-HCC group) included 45 cirrhotic patients due to HCV and the third cirrhotic with HCC group (HCC group) included 90 cases with HCC on top of HCV-related cirrhosis. All participants were subjected to clinical examination, taking of history, radiological evaluation and routine laboratory investigations involving alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) assessment. PKCδ was assessed for all participants using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay.

Results: AFP and PKCδ concentrations were greater in HCC than in non-HCC and controls. PKCδ ≥ 30.75 ng/mL showed excellent diagnostic performance for detecting HCC in HCV-related cirrhosis (AUC = 0.977, sensitivity 95.6 %, specificity 86.7 %, accuracy 92.6 %). Multivariate analysis identified PKCδ ≥ 30.75 ng/mL, AFP ≥ 9.4 ng/mL and current smoking as independent predictors of HCC.

Conclusion: PKCδ has a significant diagnostic ability for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with good specificity and sensitivity in HCC prediction in patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis.

Hypolipidaemic Effect of an Immature Pomelo (Citrus Maxima) Extract in a Tyloxapol-Induced Hyperlipidaemia Mouse Model

Ba Dien Pham — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Pomelo extracts are rich in bioactive flavonoids and may regulate lipid metabolism. However, studies evaluating the lipid-lowering effects of immature pomelo derived from agricultural by-products remain limited in Vietnam. This study was conducted to investigate the hypolipidaemic activity of a liquid extract obtained from immature pomelo (Citrus maxima) in a tyloxapol-induced mouse model of acute hyperlipidaemia.

Methods: Sixty mice were randomly assigned to six groups: normal control, pathological control (tyloxapol-induced hyperlipidaemia), positive control (atorvastatin-treated) and three experimental groups receiving immature pomelo extract orally at doses of 5.17, 10.34 and 15.51 g/kg. Key lipid indicators, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), were quantified in serum samples. Data were analysed using appropriate statistical tests, including the Shapiro–Wilk test, independent t-test and Levene’s test.

Results: All extract doses significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-C compared with the pathological control (p < 0.001). The lowest dose produced the greatest reduction in total cholesterol (3.420 mmol/L), while higher doses showed stronger effects on HDL-C restoration, reaching levels similar to those recorded in the normal and atorvastatin-treated groups (2.100 and 1.950 mmol/L; p > 0.05)

Conclusion: The liquid extract of immature pomelo demonstrated significant hypolipidaemic activity in this experimental model.

Metabolic Syndrome in Lean vs Obese Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Phenotype

Navjyoti Goyal — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common metabolic, hormonal and endocrinological condition. Compared to lean, obese PCOS women are more likely to experience infertility, irregular menstruation, acanthosis and hirsutism. Aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in lean and obese PCOS patients as well as its correlation with age, body mass index (BMI) and obesity.

Methods: The 450 research participants in the cross-sectional study visited the tertiary care hospital. The individuals were chosen using the updated Rotterdam criteria and then divided into lean and obese groups according to their BMI. Clinical, biochemical, anthropometric, metabolic and demographic information about the patients were assessed and compared.

Results: The average age of obese patients was 29.8 ± 8.47 years, whereas the average age of lean patients was 24.8 ± 7.07 years. Obese PCOS individuals had significantly higher levels of all examined parameters, including age, height, weight, WHR, hip and waist circumferences and BMI. Obese people were significantly more likely than thin people to have clinical parameters such infertility, alopecia, hirsutism, acanthosis and irregular menstruation. When comparing biochemical parameters such total testosterone (TT), luteinising hormone (LH): follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), the fasting oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and blood pressure, there were significant differences between PCOS patients who were thin and obese. Compared to lean individuals, obese patients showed higher levels of the lipid profile (p < 0.001). Metabolic syndrome was far more common in obese PCOS patients than in lean ones.

Conclusion: Study showed that both lean and obese persons might have metabolic syndrome. Consequently, all PCOS patients require monitoring for cardio-metabolic risk, irrespective of age, weight, or BMI.

Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Satisfaction Following Implant Restoration After Sinus Floor Augmentation: A Prospective Evaluation

Hoang Giang Nguyen — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Alveolar ridge resorption and maxillary sinus pneumatisation present significant challenges for implant rehabilitation. Although lateral window sinus floor augmentation (LWSFA) is a predictable surgical approach, patient-reported outcomes remain essential for evaluating treatment success beyond osseointegration. This study aimed to evaluate longitudinal oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and satisfaction in patients undergoing implant therapy after LWSFA.

Methods: This prospective longitudinal study included 39 patients with 57 posterior maxillary edentulous sites and residual bone height ≤4 mm. All patients underwent LWSFA using a mixture of allograft, synthetic bone substitute and platelet-rich fibrin. After six months of graft maturation, implants were placed, followed by definitive prosthetic restoration after a further six months. OHRQoL was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) at baseline and at one week, six months and 12 months after functional loading. Patient Satisfaction Score (PSS) was measured using a visual analogue scale.

Results: Mean OHIP-14 scores improved significantly from 24.28 ± 9.77 at baseline to 6.13 ± 2.82 at 12 months (p < 0.001). Most domain-specific improvements appeared to stabilise by six months. PSS increased significantly from 8.92 ± 0.81 at one week to 9.44 ± 0.55 at six months (p < 0.017), before reaching a plateau. Across all time points, female patients consistently reported significantly higher OHIP-14 scores than males (p < 0.05). Satisfaction in single-tooth cases stabilised within one week, whereas multi-unit cases required six months.

Conclusion: LWSFA followed by implant-supported restoration significantly improves OHRQoL and satisfaction. Maximum satisfaction and functional comfort are typically achieved and sustained after six months of functional loading.

Development of a Sprayable Thermosensitive Hydrogel Containing Rambutan (Nephelium Lappaceum L) Leaf Extract for Diabetic Wound Therapy

Khairun Nisa’ — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Diabetic wounds are challenging to treat due to impaired healing processes. This study aimed to develop a sprayable thermosensitive hydrogel incorporating rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L) leaf extract, known for its phytochemical wound healing potential.

Methods: Rambutan leaves were extracted via 70 % ethanol maceration. Qualitative and quantitative analyses confirmed the presence of tannins and flavonoids. The extract was formulated into thermosensitive hydrogels (F1–F3) using sodium alginate, Poloxamer 407 and Poloxamer 188. Physical properties were evaluated and wound healing efficacy was tested on diabetic rats over 21 days using a full-thickness wound model.

Results: The extract yielded 25.44 % with tannin and flavonoid contents of 2.94 % and 5.73 %, respectively. All formulations were homogeneous, pH-balanced (4.52–5.03) and met ideal criteria for spreadability, gelation, swelling and viscosity. In vivo tests showed F3 had the highest wound healing rate (81.25 %), approaching the normal control (84.00 %) and outperforming the reference drug (61.67 %). Statistical analysis indicated significant differences (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The thermosensitive hydrogel with rambutan leaf extract effectively accelerates diabetic wound healing and shows potential as a topical therapy.

Effects of Different Crosslinkers on the Release Profiles of Growth Factors (TGF-ß, BMP and PDGF) From Hydroxyapatite Combined With Secretomes

Yunita Purnamasari — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Controlled release of growth factors is essential for bone regeneration, requiring biomaterials with high stability and osteoconductivity. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is biocompatible and osteoconductive but limited by weak mechanical strength and uncontrolled growth factor release. This study evaluated the release profiles of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) from HA combined with secretome and crosslinked using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), glutaraldehyde (GA), or aluminium hydroxide gel (Alhydrogel), aiming to identify the most effective crosslinker for controlled release and scaffold stability.

Methods: In vitro tests were conducted on four groups (n = 6 each): HA + PVA 0.5 % + Secretome, HA + GA 0.1 % + Secretome, HA + Alhydrogel 0.1 % + Secretome and a non-crosslinked control. HA derived from bovine bone was sterilised using gamma radiation, then crosslinked through immersion and dry-heat treatment. Samples were incubated in PBS at 37 °C and growth factor release was analysed using ELISA on days 1, 3, 7, 10 and 14.

Results: HA + PVA showed the highest TGF-β release (617.90 ± 18.66 ng/L) and the most stable BMP (0.19 ng/L) and PDGF (0.61 ng/L) profiles. HA + Alhydrogel had the highest BMP release (6.01 ± 0.50 ng/L) and stable TGF-β (7.57 ng/L), while HA + GA had the highest PDGF release (27.27 ± 1.92 ng/L). The control showed rapid but unstable release.

Conclusion: HA combined with secretome and PVA offers the most stable and sustained release, supporting its use as an optimal scaffold for bone regeneration.

Phenotypic Characteristics of Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Association Between Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Psychological Factors – A Pilot Study

Irina Milovac — 2026-06-29

Background/Aim: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a heterogeneous functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder frequently associated with psychological symptoms. Phenotypic characterisation of patients may improve understanding of the relationship between gastrointestinal and psychological dimensions. The aim of this pilot study was to describe gastrointestinal and psychological phenotypic features in IBS patients and to examine their interrelationships.

Methods: The study included 20 IBS patients (8 IBS-D, 7 IBS-M, 5 IBS-C) and 9 healthy controls. Gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed using the GSRS and VSI questionnaires, while psychological status was evaluated with the PHQ-15 and HADS. Groups were compared using independent samples t-tests and correlations within the IBS group were analysed using Spearman’s correlation. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.

Results: IBS patients demonstrated significantly more severe GI symptoms and higher somatic symptom perception compared to controls (p < 0.01). Within the IBS group, strong correlations were observed between VSI and PHQ-15 (p = 0.740, p < 0.001) and between GSRS and PHQ-15 (p = 0.605, p = 0.001). Associations between HADS and GI symptoms were weaker; the correlation with GSRS was not statistically significant (p = 0.333, p = 0.078), while the correlation with VSI reached statistical significance (p = 0.484, p = 0.008).

Conclusion: Gastrointestinal symptoms in IBS patients are strongly associated with somatic symptom perception, whereas associations with general anxiety and depression are weaker. These findings support the heterogeneity of the IBS phenotype and highlight the importance of individualised assessment of gastrointestinal and psychological dimensions in clinical practice.

Role of Chrononutrition in Modulating Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health

Vani Shukla — 2026-06-29

Maintaining optimal cardiovascular and metabolic health depends on aligning dietary practices with the body’s intrinsic circadian rhythms. Chrononutrition is a rapidly advancing research area that explores how the timing of food intake influences physiological health outcomes. Unlike conventional nutritional strategies that emphasise food quantity and composition, chrononutrition highlights meal timing as a critical regulator of metabolic processes, including glucose metabolism, insulin responsiveness and lipid regulation. Accumulating evidence indicates that unfavourable eating behaviours, particularly late-day or nighttime food consumption, are closely associated with metabolic impairments and an increased risk of conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. By integrating principles of nutrition with chronobiology, chrononutrition offers a promising approach for reducing the burden of chronic diseases. This review evaluates the role of chrononutrition in metabolic and cardiovascular health, with particular emphasis on time-restricted eating (TRF), consistency in meal timing and the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for the observed health benefits. Overall, the findings suggest that dietary strategies synchronised with biological clocks may represent an effective approach for chronic disease prevention.

Antifungal Pharmacotherapy and Hepatic Safety: Mechanisms of Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI) and Risk Mitigation

Vadisha Sharma — 2026-06-29

The growing prevalence of invasive fungal infections (IFIs), especially among immunocompromised patients, has resulted in increased reliance on systemic antifungal therapies. Hepatotoxicity is still a serious clinical problem even with improvements in treatment results. This study consolidates the mechanisms, incidence rates and risk factors associated with drug-induced liver injury (DILI) across various antifungal classes, including flucytosine, azoles, polyenes, echinocandins and allylamines. Triazole antifungals, such as voriconazole, fluconazole and ketoconazole are particularly implicated because of their substantial hepatic metabolism via cytochrome P450 enzymes and potential for interactions between drugs. Direct hepatocyte damage, immune-mediated responses, mitochondrial malfunction and changes in cytokine signalling are some of the mechanisms of hepatotoxicity. Terbinafine and other echinocandins and allylamines can also be hepatotoxic, particularly when combined with polypharmacy and pre-existing liver illness. Acute liver failure and asymptomatic liver enzyme increases are examples of clinical symptoms. To maximise treatment while reducing hepatic side effects, a thorough understanding of antifungal pharmacokinetics, metabolism and patient-related risk factors is necessary.

Exploring the Nutritional, Medicinal and Economic Significance of Morchella Esculenta: a Comprehensive Review

Nishant Goutam — 2026-06-29

This overview summarises the nutritional profile, medicinal properties, economic significance and traditional uses of Morchella esculenta (Guchhi). It also highlights research gaps to guide future studies. Information from multiple sources was synthesised to explore the mushroom’s nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, pharmacological activities, ethnobotanical relevance and economic role. M esculenta provides proteins, fibre and micronutrients such as zinc, selenium and iron, which contribute to immune support, antioxidant defence and blood health. Its pharmacological potential includes antioxidant, antitumour, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, largely attributed to polysaccharides (β-glucans, galactomannan) and phenolic compounds. Traditional uses for arthritis, fatigue and gastrointestinal disorders align with modern pharmacological findings. Economically, it remains one of the world’s most valuable wild fungi, supporting rural livelihoods. M esculenta is a nutritionally and pharmacologically significant mushroom with cultural and economic value. Further toxicological studies, clinical trials and cultivation research are needed to realise its full potential.

Gut Microbiome and Diabetes: Emerging Perspectives in Metabolic Regulation

Navreet Kaur — 2026-06-29

Diabetes mellitus Type 2 (T2DM) is one of the fastest-growing metabolic disorders in the world. It is marked by insulin resistance, high blood sugar and high cholesterol levels. Recently, its prevalence has increased significantly, making it a major health issue globally. New evidence shows that people with T2DM often have changes in their gut microbiota composition and suffer from problems in multiple organ systems. This review focused on the changes in gut microbiota related to T2DM and examines how microbial byproducts affect the disease's development. The potential for identifying at-risk individuals based on microbial patterns and the creation of specific treatments was also discussed. Lastly, it was looked into gut health strategies that aim to change the gut microbiota to prevent or slow the advancement of T2DM.

Navigating the Storm: Understanding and Managing Depression During Menopause in Women

Arti Saini — 2026-06-29

Depression has a prevalence of about 280-300 million individuals globally and is more prevalent in women than in men. Hormonal changes, vasomotor changes and psychosocial factors are linked with the high risk of depression during menopausal transition. Oestrogen also acts upon serotonergic, dopaminergic and noradrenergic processes, which are involved in mood regulation, indicating a biological association between menopause and depression. Aim of this review was to examine the mechanisms underlying menopause-related depression and summarise existing management strategies A literature review was based on published articles and clinical guidelines was conducted to investigate the relationship between menopause, hormonal changes and depression and the assessment of treatment options. Studies indicate a close relationship between menopausal transition and symptoms of depression. Factors that increase the risk of experiencing vasomotor symptoms, a negative attitude to menopause, surgical menopause and a previous history of depression are some of the risk factors. Several diagnostic tools are common, such as the Beck Depression Inventory and the Hamilton depression rating scale. There is evidence of the usefulness of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) in the treatment of both menopausal and depressive symptoms. Adjunctive measures, such as antidepressants, phytoestrogens, B vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium and polyunsaturated fatty acids, have also been shown to have other advantages in the treatment of mood disturbances and psychosocial discomfort. Menopause-related depression is a growing issue in the population that has causes with multifactorial predictors. A combined management approach of MHT, nutritional supplements and psychosocial interventions is needed to enhance the quality of life and the psychological well-being of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Intermittent Fasting as a complementary Strategy to Manage Type II Diabetes and Metabolic Health: A Review

Faheem Mustafa — 2026-06-29

As an alternative or supplement to traditional pharmaceutical treatments, intermittent fasting (IF) has become a viable dietary approach for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose management are the outcomes of various IF patterns, such as time-restricted eating, alternate-day fasting and the 5:2 diet, which encourage a metabolic shift from glucose to fat utilisation. Even in patients on insulin therapy, research indicates that IF may help lower fasting blood sugar, glycated haemoglobin (HbA₁c) and insulin resistance with no risk of hypoglycaemia when appropriately monitored. Physiological benefits of IF include enhanced circadian rhythm alignment, increased autophagy, reduced oxidative stress and improved lipid metabolism. Comparisons with other dietary approaches, such as the Mediterranean, Palaeolithic, ketogenic and fasting-mimicking diets, indicate that IF offers flexibility and long-term sustainability for many individuals. However, consistent adherence and personalised strategies are essential for optimal results. Overall, IF presents a valuable complementary approach for managing T2DM and promoting better metabolic health.

Stem Cell-Based Therapies Combined With Nano-Biomaterials for Nerve Regeneration and Repair

Vishnu Mittal — 2026-06-29

Nerve injuries, often resulting from trauma or degenerative diseases, pose significant challenges due to limited regenerative capacity of nervous system. Conventional treatments, including surgical nerve grafts, exhibit limitations such as donor site morbidity and limited functional recovery. Emerging regenerative strategies combining stem cell-based therapies with nano-biomaterials offer promising solutions for enhancing nerve regeneration and functional restoration. A comprehensive review of recent advancements in stem cell sources and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) was discussed. Also design, properties and applications of nano-biomaterials such as nanoparticles, nanofibers and hydrogels in nerve repair were analysed. Preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating effectiveness of these combined strategies were evaluated. The integration of stem cells with nano-biomaterials has demonstrated improved nerve regeneration outcomes, including enhanced neuronal differentiation, reduced inflammation and accelerated axonal growth. Studies indicate that biomaterial scaffolds provide structural support and biochemical cues, facilitating stem cell survival and integration into damaged neural tissues. Stem cell-based therapies combined with nano-biomaterials represent a promising approach for nerve regeneration. This combinatorial strategy offers enhanced neuroprotection, functional recovery and long-term stability in neural repair. Future research should focus on optimising scaffold properties, improving cell survival rates and translating preclinical findings into clinical applications.

Infiltrative Therapy of Adipose Vital Micrografts in a Metabolic and protective Solution in Peyronie's Disease: a Case Report in a Pilot Study

Lorenzo Svolacchia — 2026-06-29

Peyronie's disease (PD) or induratio penis plastica (IPP), is characterised by fibrotic plaque formation within the tunica albuginea, leading to penile curvature and pain. Current minimally invasive treatments provide limited outcomes. Aim of the research was to explore the preliminary feasibility and tolerability of intralesional injections of viable adipose-derived micrografts composed of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes, emulsified with a metabolic and protective solution of non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, amino acid chains and sodium bicarbonate. A 52-year-old male presented with a 12-month history of penile curvature and painful erections. He underwent a single injection of adipose-derived micrografts (20-40 microns) composed of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes and emulsified with a metabolic and protective solution of non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, amino acids branches and sodium bicarbonate for pH stabilisation directly into the plaque. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 6 months post-treatment using goniometry, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). At 6 months, penile curvature decreased from 28° to 22°, a 21 % reduction. Pain resolved completely (VAS from 5 to 0) and erectile function improved (IIEF-5 from 17 to 21). No adverse events were reported. This single case report provides preliminary, hypothesis-generating observations suggesting that intralesional injection of adipose-derived micrografts combined with a metabolic and protective hyaluronic acid solution is feasible and apparently well tolerated in one patient with Peyronie’s disease. The observed numerical improvements in curvature, pain and erectile function cannot be attributed to the treatment with confidence in the absence of a control group and may reflect the natural history of the disease. This approach was investigational and not currently endorsed by EAU or AUA guidelines. Larger randomised controlled studies are required before any conclusion on efficacy can be drawn.