The advancement of nanotechnology and the growing demand for environmentally sustainable processes have fueled interest in green synthesis methods. In this research, copper-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Cu: ZnO NPs) were synthesized using a microwave-assisted approach, employing a bio-extract derived from Pistia Stratiotes (PS) leaves as a reducing agent. Comprehensive characterization through UV-Visible spectroscopy, PL, FTIR, SEM with EDS, TEM, DLS, XRD and XPS confirmed the formation, optical and structural features of the synthesized NPs. SEM and TEM images revealed spherical and nanorod-like morphologies, with particle sizes ranging from 15 nm to 65 nm and a tendency to agglomerate. Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations using Quantum Espresso indicated a band gap narrowing to 3.0 eV after copper doping. Biologically, the Cu: ZnO NPs exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Candida albicans (16.3-17.5 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (18.4-21.5 mm), and Escherichia coli (19-21.6 mm). Additionally, the NPs showed promising anticancer potential against SK-MEL-28 melanoma cells, with an IC50 value of 30.53 µg/mL. Overall, this research demonstrates an eco-friendly and efficient route for fabricating Cu: ZnO NPs with significant antimicrobial and anticancer properties, emphasizing their potential for future biomedical applications.

The present study reports, the eco-friendly synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using Equisetum diffusum D. Don. extract, a medicinal plant known for its therapeutic properties. Phytochemicals present in the extract served as reducing and stabilizing agents for synthesizing stable AuNPs with an average size range of 68.8 nm. The biosynthesized AuNPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) methods, confirming their stability, morphology, and crystalline nature. The green synthesized ED@AuNPs exhibited promising biological activities, including broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with inhibition zones from 24 to 37 mm. The anticancer activity was assessed through an MTT assay against hepatic carcinoma (HePG2) cells, revealing dose-dependent cytotoxicity with maximum inhibition at 200 µg/mL (47.62%). Antidiabetic activity was demonstrated by starch hydrolysis and enzyme kinetics, with significant α-amylase inhibitory activity up to 70.85%, comparable to the standard drug Acarbose. Moreover, antioxidant activity was conformed through FRAP and DPPH assays, indicating strong free radical scavenging activity and reducing ability. The study demonstrates the potential of biosynthesized ED@AuNPs as multifunctional agents with applications in biomedicine, particularly in antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antioxidant therapies, offering an eco-friendly and sustainable approach for nanoparticle synthesis.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a significant global health challenge, marked by high mortality and recurrence. This study investigated the synergistic potential of cisplatin and palbociclib (C + P) against HCC cell lines. RT-qPCR revealed that C + P significantly downregulated HCC-related genes, including Hsp90, β-catenin, and components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, compared to cisplatin alone and controls. Western blotting confirmed a reduction in phosphorylated AKT (P-AKT) with palbociclib and C + P, while PTEN, a tumor suppressor, was upregulated in the C + P group. Annexin V-FITC assays demonstrated a substantial increase in apoptosis in palbociclib and C + P treated cells. Cell cycle analysis indicated S and G0-G1 phase arrest with C + P, suggesting a combined cytotoxic effect. Scratch wound assays showed that both palbociclib and C + P significantly inhibited cell migration compared to cisplatin and controls. These findings suggest a promising synergistic effect of C + P in overcoming cisplatin resistance in HCC. However, further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between these drugs.

Older adults with advanced cancer are at risk for toxicities and declines in physical function, which can impact their ability to perform instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs, e.g., preparing meals, managing medications, and cleaning). This decline is a key predictor of treatment outcomes and survival in this population. To address this, we conducted a two-arm, randomized trial to evaluate the feasibility of a home-based chair exercise intervention (ChairEx), delivered in-clinic by oncology staff.

Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show promising efficacy in colorectal cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma therapy, especially in combination. However, given the many cutaneous adverse effects (CAE) associated with each, there is concern for overlap and exacerbation of toxicities. EGFRIs are associated with acneiform rashes and paronychia, while ICIs are associated with lichenoid dermatitis and psoriasis. Xerosis, pruritus, and eczema are seen with both drugs. Understanding the CAEs of EGFRI-ICI combination therapy may guide the management of toxicities and improve adherence to life-saving therapy.

The pathogenesis of uterine carcinosarcoma (UCS) remains unclear due to a few mature cell lines. Herein, we established a new cell line, ESCA, from a Chinese woman. Especially, three sublines, named ESCA-2, ESCA-3, ESCA-5, were isolated based on the rate of cells' different sedimentation. All ESCA cells have been subcultured for more than 60 generations. ESCA sublines display different cell morphology and growth characteristics, as well as have different sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs. ESCA was most sensitive to paclitaxel and carboplatin, while ESCA-2 was most sensitive to ifosfamide. Besides, ESCA showed severe chromosome karyotype abnormalities and abnormal number of chromosomes. Whole exome sequence showed ESCA and its sublines, as well as tissue block shared similar single nucleotide variants, such as TP53, TRRAP mutations, while relatively large differences in mutational signature abundance. When all ESCA cells were xenotransplanted subcutaneously into BALB/c-nu mice, they developed into tumors that resembled the original tumor with positive AE1/3 and Vimentin in immunohistochemical staining. Interestingly, the transplanted tumor from ESCA-5 proliferated fastest with a relatively low level of glucose uptake evaluated by micro-PET/CT scanning. Taken together, ESCA and its sublines may be valuable tools to explore the molecular mechanism of UCS.

Anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) is the standard first-line therapy for advanced HER2+ gastric cancer. However, resistance to anti-HER2 therapy remains a significant clinical challenge. In this study, we identified a novel resistance mechanism to anti-HER2 therapy in gastric cancer and proposed a strategy to enhance therapeutic efficacy by activating T cells. The association between intratumoral immune cells and clinical responses to anti-HER2 therapy in gastric cancer was investigated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were co-cultured with HER2+ gastric cancer cell lines or organoids to study NK cell responses mediated by anti-HER2 mAb. T cells were depleted or activated to assess their impact on antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and the mechanism by which T cells influence ADCC was examined. The combinatorial effects of anti-HER2 mAb and HER2 × CD3 T cell-engaging bispecific antibody (bsAb) in gastric cancer were evaluated. A total of 35 gastric cancer patients receiving anti-HER2 mAb treatment were enrolled. A higher number of intratumoral T cells were associated with greater tumor regression and improved overall survival following anti-HER2 mAb therapy. Mechanistically, T cells, mainly CD4+ T cells, influence NK cell functional and phenotypic changes via interleukin-2 (IL-2) production. Activating T cells by HER2 × CD3 T cell-engaging bsAb enhanced the anti-tumor effects of anti-HER2 mAb in gastric cancer. Our study identified the lack of T cell help as a novel resistance mechanism to anti-HER2 mAb in gastric cancer. Enhancing T cell help via the combination of HER2 × CD3 bsAb improved the therapeutic efficacy of anti-HER2 mAb in gastric cancer.

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of compression therapy in preventing oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) in colorectal cancer patients.

Immunotherapy is an emerging and effective treatment for cancer. The mRNA-based cancer vaccines enhance the immune response to cancer cells by activating T cells. However, the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen (CTLA-4) receptor signaling inhibits T-cell activation, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the mRNA-based vaccines. Fortunately, the anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody therapy can block CTLA-4 signaling. Nevertheless, the use of anti-CTLA-4 antibodies is also accompanied by immunotoxic side effects. Therefore, an effective and safe medication regimen plays an essential role in the treatment of cancer. First, we develop a mathematical model to describe the interaction of mRNA-based cancer vaccines and anti-CTLA-4 antibodies under the tumor immune microenvironment. Secondly, by employing the method of Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), the model is parameterized using experimental data, and the simulations are in agreement with experimental results. Finally, the gradient descent method is designed to optimize the medication regimens to inhibit tumor growth and reduce the side effects. Additionally, we find that the anti-CTLA-4 antibody should be administered following vaccination, and the dose of the antibody should positively correlate with the dose of vaccine within a safe range. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the selection of treatment regimens for clinical trials from a mathematical perspective.

Sustained increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) following intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) in the treatment of retinal disease has been theoretically attributed to aggregation of anti-VEGF in the iridocorneal angle. However, previous studies by our group showed full clearance of intravitreally injected bevacizumab, aflibercept, and ranibizumab. The objective of this study was to further analyze and compare the clearance of these anti-VEGF agents from the eye after a single injection in a rat model.

Gastric cancer is a common malignant tumour. Copper-induced cell death, a recently discovered form of metal ion-related cell death, has garnered significant attention from researchers. We synthesised a multifunctional nanoparticle, ZnO@CuEA, and characterised its morphology using transmission electron microscopy. Cytotoxicity was analysed via CCK8 assays and calcein-AM staining. The tumour-targeting capability of ZnO@CuEA was validated using confocal microscopy and in vivo imaging experiments. RNA-seq and proteomic analysis were conducted to assess changes in mRNA and protein expression before and after ZnO@CuEA treatment. Lysosomal β-galactosidase staining was employed for cellular senescence detection, and protein expression levels were analysed via Western blot. Finally, in vivo experiments demonstrated the tumour-inhibitory effect of ZnO@CuEA. ZnO@CuEA is a multifunctional nanoparticle capable of targeting tumour cells and inducing cuproptosis. In vivo experiments showed that ZnO@CuEA exhibits significant antitumor activity. The multifunctional nanoparticles synthesised in this study provide a novel therapeutic approach for cancer treatment.

The patient presents with a genetic condition named Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which predisposes her to multiple neoplasms during her lifespan. Due to the chemotherapeutic treatment of an osteosarcoma, the patient presents with cardiotoxicity secondary to doxorubicin that is refractory to conventional management. The patient is initially stabilized with a peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation device, with no improvement after 14 days of support. Later she was assisted with a HeartMate 3 mechanical circulatory device as a bridge to candidacy or as a destination therapy. She is the first paediatric patient in Spain to be assisted with long-term circulatory support using the HeartMate 3 device.

VCP/p97 plays an important role in endoplasmic reticulum related degradation pathways, and inhibition of p97 was shown to induce ER stress and subsequently cell death in a variety of solid tumors and hematoma. For acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells, inhibition of p97 activity leads to the accumulation of ubiquitylated proteins, activation of unfolded protein response (UPR) and apoptosis.

High-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) is seen as an effective therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL); however, it is extremely toxic. Monitoring the plasma concentrations of methotrexate (MTX) and its important metabolite, 7-hydroxy-methotrexate (7-OH-MTX), on a routine basis aids in dose modification of rescue medications and in avoiding toxicity. The pharmacologically active and toxic effects of drugs are due to the unbound portion, as most drugs are bound to plasma proteins to some degree. However, the simultaneous measurement of unbound plasma concentrations of MTX and 7-OH-MTX has not been reported.

Gynecological cancers represent one of the leading causes of death in women and pose a critical global health challenge. While surgery and chemotherapy remain the first-line therapies for gynecological cancers, the persistently high morbidity and mortality rates have driven the urgent exploration of novel theranostic strategies. In recent years, polymer nanoparticles (PNPs) have gained increasing attention in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer due to their superior targeting ability and delivery efficiency. This review provides an overview of PNPs and their role in tumor diagnosis and treatment, with a strategic focus on their utility in gynecological cancers. It covers drug delivery, imaging, combination therapy, and theranostic integration in gynecological cancers, and summarizes the composition, principles and characteristics of diverse polymers and their cargoes. Furthermore, this work highlights innovative applications of PNPs in gynecological cancers management, spanning chemotherapy, immunotherapy, PARPi therapy, phototherapy and other therapies. Despite promising preclinical advancements in PNPs, formidable challenges persist in their clinical translation. This review serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians aiming to optimize gynecological cancers theranostics as well as accelerate the development and clinical translation of PNPs.

The hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME) significantly impacts the effectiveness of various therapies on breast cancer. Conventional chemotherapeutic agents are unable to target hypoxic tumor tissue specifically, leading to reduced treatment efficacy and severe systemic toxicity. In order to improve drug targeting ability, we developed a bioactive biomotors system (MDPP@Bif) for chemoimmunotherapy against breast cancer. Utilizing the self-driving properties of the anaerobic Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis, Bif), both doxorubicin (DOX) and anti-programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (αPD-L1) antibody can be delivered simultaneously to tumor tissues to exert an anti-tumor effect on breast cancer.

Cancer represents a complex group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. These features pose significant challenges to conventional therapeutic approaches, necessitating the development of more targeted and effective treatment strategies.

To elucidate the potential targets and mechanisms of Brucea javanica in the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) through network pharmacology and molecular docking, supported by clinical data and in vitro experiments.

To investigate the impact of tamoxifen dose, CYP2D6 inhibitors, CYP2D6*4 genotype, and non-genetic parameters on the outcomes of tamoxifen treated female breast cancer patients.

Metastatic tumor cells that escape from immune surveillance are a dilemma in cancer treatment, and thus developing selective targeting agents to treat metastatic tumor and reinstate immune perception is imperative for clinical applications. Herein, a multifunctional nanoplatform of supramolecular assembled nanoparticles (SANs) comprising a core structure of metal ion (Fe3+) and organic ligands including tannic acid (TA), and zoledronic acid (Zol) was developed. The FTZ SANs was further decorated with fucoidan (Fu), a P-selectin ligand, which greatly enhanced specific binding affinity of FTZ@Fu SANs towards metastatic tumor cells and suppressed tumor aggressiveness. The Fe-TA-Zol coordination network constructed through competitive ligand substitution facilitated the releases of Zol in response to the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME), which also benefited iron redox cycling of the Fenton reaction and further trigger ferritinophagy. Subsequently, Zol coordinately exerted ferroptotic-inducing activity accompanied by induction of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway to aggravate immunogenic cell death (ICD) and enhance the antitumor immune response. Furthermore, FTZ@Fu effectively attenuated the immunosuppressive TME to suppress tumor growth and distant metastasis, and FTZ@Fu potentiated the therapeutic efficacy in combination with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Importantly, FTZ@Fu SANs suppressed metastatic tumor growth and reshaped the immune microenvironment. Our nanosystem provides a promising avenue for synergetic cancer targeting and chemoimmunotherapy, paving the way for targeted therapeutic strategies.