Journal of Pharmacology and Drug Development
College of Pharmacy | Al-Nahrain University
Selective Cytotoxic Activity of a 5-BromoIndole Carbothioamide (BTIC) Against Human Cancer Cell Lines
Background A major limitation is the low selectivity of conventional chemotherapeutic agents, which results in severe toxicity on non-malignant tissues. Scaffolds based on indole have recently been identified as interesting new anticancer candidates but selective cytotoxicity continues to be a key target. Objective The goal of this study was to determine the cytotoxic and specific anticancer effects of a novel 5-bromo-indole-derived carbothioamide (BTIC) on several malignant and non-cancerous cell lines. Methods After a 48-hour treatment, BTIC's antiproliferative effectiveness against human breast cancer (MCF-7), lung cancer (A549), & normal endothelium (HUVEC) cell lines was evaluated using the MTT assay. Data shown as dose-response curves were subjected to nonlinear regression analysis to determine IC50 values. Preferential cytotoxicity was evaluated using the selectivity index (SI). Results In every cell line examined, BTIC had a cytotoxic impact; furthermore, this toxicity was concentration-dependent. This compound exhibited the most powerful activity against A549 cells (IC50 = 3.5 µg/mL), followed by MCF-7 cells IC50 (5.4 µg/mL), and significant cytotoxicity was recorded in HUVEC cells (IC50 = 10.4 µg/mL). A selective cytotoxicity on cancer cells was suggested by these reported SI values (2.97 and 1.93 for A549 and MCF-7, respectively). Conclusion BTIC was also a lead chemical with potent anticancer action against lung cancer cells in vitro, which exhibited high specificity. Therapeutic translation requires additional mechanistic and in vivo studies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Pharmacology and Drug Development
Simultaneous RP-HPLC Determination of Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Paracetamol in Pharmaceutical Formulations
A reliable, rapid, and economical analytical method is required for the quality control of pharmaceutical preparations containing chlorphenamine maleate (CPM) and paracetamol (PCM). This study aimed to develop and validate a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the simultaneous determination and separation of these two common drugs. The chromatographic separation was performed on a C18 column (250×4.6 mm, 5 µm) using an isocratic mobile phase of phosphate buffer (pH 6), water, acetonitrile, and ethanol (70:15:15 v/v) at a flow rate of 0.8 ml/min. Detection was performed using a UV-Vis detector set at 228 nm. The method was validated for both pure substances and pharmaceutical preparations in accordance with standard guidelines, assessing linearity, accuracy, detection limit (LOD), and quantification limit (LOQ). The method successfully separated CPM and PCM with retention times of 3.2 min and 5.3 min, respectively, resulting in a total analysis time of less than 10 minutes. The method demonstrated excellent linearity over concentration ranges of 10-120 µg/mL for CPM (R² =1) and 10-110 µg/mL for PCM (R² = 0.9999). It showed high accuracy and reliability. The LOD was 0.06 µg/mL for CPM and 0.27 µg/mL for PCM, while the LOQ was 0.18 µg/mL for CPM and 0.82 µg/mL for PCM. The developed HPLC method is rapid, sensitive, precise, and economical. It is therefore suitable for routine quality control analysis and for the simultaneous quantification of chlorphenamine maleate and paracetamol in combined pharmaceutical dosage forms.
Ethosomal Systems As a Novel Non-Invasive Vesicular Platform Drug Delivery
Objective Examine how transdermal drug delivery systems can yield advantages over conventional methods, especially in terms of maximizing efficacy while reducing toxicity and bypassing hepatic metabolism. The study also aims to review ethosomal systems as a novel nanocarrier for enhanced transdermal drug delivery. Methods A comprehensive review of transdermal drug delivery systems with an accent on ethosomes. Three types of ethosomal systems were studied based on their composition, which are transethosomes, binary ethosomes, and classical ethosomes. These methods were explored to determine how the differences in preparation techniques and formulation methods influenced system properties, including vesicle size, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency, skin penetration, and stability. Results Ethosomes are emerging as potent transdermal drug carriers.They can encompass drugs with a broad diversity of physicochemical properties, and due to their high ethanol levels, ethanol has been used to increase the penetration of the drug molecules by disrupting the lipid structure of the stratum corneum.(Due to the deeper skin layers,it may include the subcutaneous layer,but the target for transdermal drug delivery is that the drug is systemically absorbed before reaching this layer). Transethosomes and binary ethosomes exhibited better flexibility and permeation than conventional ethosomes Conclusions Ethosomal systems have better drug penetration, lower toxicity, and higher therapeutic efficacy.This makes them a promising new way to give drugs through the skin. The performance of formulation ingredients and preparation methods has a big effect on how well they work. More research and improvements to these systems could make them more useful in medicine and pharmacology.
Design, Molecular Docking, and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of 4-Aminoantipyrine Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Compounds Targeting Histone Deacetylase-2 (HDAC-2)
Objective: Histone deacetylase-2 (HDAC-2) has emerged as an important molecular target in cancer therapy because of its role in gene silencing, regulation of the cell cycle, and resistance to apoptosis in several cancer types. In the present study, a series of novel 4-aminoantipyrine-based derivatives incorporating semicarbazide, thiosemicarbazide, and hydroxylamine pharmacophoric groups were rationally designed and evaluated for their potential HDAC-2 inhibitory activity using in silico approaches. Methods:. The binding affinity of the newly designed compounds toward the HDAC-2 enzyme and their interactions within the catalytic pocket were investigated using molecular docking analysis. The three-dimensional structure of HDAC-2 (PDB ID: 4LXZ) was obtained from the RCSB Protein Data Bank and prepared for docking studies. Results: Docking indicated that ligand stability within the enzyme active site was mainly achieved through coordination with the catalytic zinc ion, in addition to hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions with essential amino acid residues located in the HDAC-2 catalytic domain. The reference inhibitor vorinostat (SAHA) was used as a standard compound and produced a docking score of −5.445 kcal/mol. Among the designed compounds, Compound Ia exhibited the most favorable binding energy with a calculated ΔG of −9.711 kcal/mol. In addition, Compound IIe and Compound Ib demonstrated promising docking scores of −8.285 and −8.147 kcal/mol, respectively. Conclusions: Pharmacokinetic properties were predicted using the QikProp module, revealing that most designed compounds exhibited acceptable drug-likeness according to Lipinski’s Rule of Five. These computational findings suggest that the designed derivatives may represent promising candidates as HDAC-2 inhibitors with potential anticancer activity.
Investigation of the Anti-Angiogenic activity of Anabasis setifera
Objective to find the potential anti–angiogenic and antioxidant effect of Anabasis setifera extracts. Methods The rat aortic ring anti-angiogenesis assay, DPPH radical scavenging assay, and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay were carried out in the tissue culture laboratory of the Department of Pharmacology, College of pharmacy, Al-Nahrain University. Results The aqueous extract of Anabasis setifera demonstrated significant inhibition of microvessel outgrowth in the rat aortic ring assay by 71% , with 86.5% reduction of blood vessels growth In the CAM model, treatment resulted in a marked reduction in neovascularization compared with the control group. The extract also exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant activity in the (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging assay Conclusions The water extract of Anabasis setifera . exhibits significant anti-angiogenic and antioxidant activities and may represent a promising natural source angiogenesis agents .
Anti-angiogenic and Antioxidant Activities of Capparis spinosa L. in Rat Aortic Ring and CAM Models
Objective: Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, a basic and tightly controlled biological process. Angiogenesis is essential for tissue regeneration, wound healing, and embryonic development under normal physiological conditions. However, under pathological conditions, dysregulated angiogenesis contributes to several diseases, including cancer, making it an important therapeutic target. Accordingly, natural products, including Capparis spinosa L. have attracted considerable attention as promising anti-angiogenic agents. C. spinosa is rich in bioactive phytochemicals such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds that have been reported to possess anti-angiogenic potential. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-angiogenic and antioxidant activities of Capparis spinosa leaf extracts using complementary ex vivo and in vivo models. Methods: The rat aortic ring anti-angiogenesis assay, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay were carried out in the tissue culture laboratory of the Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Nahrain University. Results: The ethanolic extract demonstrated significant inhibition of microvessel outgrowth in the rat aortic ring assay, with an IC₅₀ value of 16.2 µg/mL and reduced neovascularisation in the CAM model, with an inhibition zone of 12±1.83 mm. The extract also exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay. Conclusions: The ethanolic extract of Capparis spinosa L. exhibits significant anti-angiogenic and antioxidant activities and represents a promising natural source of compounds capable of modulating angiogenesis and oxidative stress, supporting its potential therapeutic applications.
Green Synthesis and Characterization of Gold Nanoparticles from Beta vulgaris L. and Their Cytotoxicity Against MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 Cancer Cells
With the increasing applications of gold nanoparticles in cancer treatment and medical delivery, it has become necessary to study the biological effects of gold nanoparticles. The study aimed to evaluate the biological effects of gold nanoparticles against the mcf-7 & mda-mb-231 cell line. Gold nanoparticles were characterized using several analytical techniques including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Energy Dispersion X-ray (EDX), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Filed Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM).. The characterization results confirmed the successful synthesis of high purity quasi-spherical gold nanoparticles with particle sizes ranging from 38 to 59 nm. The cytotoxic effect of the synthesized AuNPs was investigated using the MTT assay on both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines at six different concentrations. The results indicated a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of gold nanoparticles on both cancer cell lines, with a high cytotoxic activity observed against the MDA-MB-231 cell line. The results of this study indicate the potential use of gold nanoparticles against various types of cancer cell lines, as well as the potential use of gold nanoparticles in treating cancerous diseases with vivo cell.
DNA-Based Molecular Markers review for Identification and Characterization of Probiotic Organisms
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are essential in food generation and the maintenance of good health. There is a growing interest in these species in order to learn more about the many health advantages they may provide. LAB's activities are dependent on the number of bacteria present in the gastrointestinal system and their species and strain specific. Chemical preservatives and processed meals are causing a lot of anxiety among consumers. Products containing or treated with LAB, on the other hand, are widely acknowledged as a normal approach to keep food and enhance health. The current publication intended to summarize the research on the function of probiotic LAB in food preservation, gastrointestinal immunomodulation, and health benefits. In food science and associated researches, the identification and categorization of helpful bacteria is critical. Traditional phenotypic techniques have several drawbacks, including the possibility of misidentification of a target, which limits their use. Genotyping techniques have a larger chance of succeeding, and they are commonly employed to differentiate microorganisms. The techniques used to genotype lactic acid bacteria (LAB) varies somewhat from each other, and each instrument has a set of benefits and drawbacks. This reviewing study covers different fingerprinting approaches used to identify and characterize LAB at the species, sub-species, and strain levels. The majority of such methods rely on restriction digestion, polymerase chain reaction amplification, as well as sequencing. Concerning cost, technique, and throughput DNA sequencing technologies have advanced significantly in recent years. A worldwide research effort is underway to produce enhanced versions of broadly
Evaluation of the Anti-angiogenic and Antioxidant Effects of Lawsonia inermis Leaves Ethanolic Extract: Ex Vivo and In Vivo Study
Objective Angiogenesis is an essential process in tumor growth and progression, and thus it represents a promising therapeutic target. Lawsonia inermis (henna) is a widely-used traditional medicine with different biological applications, and its bioactive components, especially lawsone, showed anticancer activity. The objective of this research was to measure the anti-angiogenic and antioxidant properties of Lawsonia inermis leaf ethanolic extract in ex vivo and in vivo systems. Methods Soxhlet was used to prepare the ethanolic extract of the Lawsonia inermis leaf. The ex vivo rat aorta ring assay was used to test the anti-angiogenic activity at the concentrations of 100, 50, 25, 12.5, and 6.25 µg/mL. The in vivo chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay was employed to confirm the anti-angiogenic effect at a concentration of 10 mg/mL. DPPH radical scavenging assay was used to determine the antioxidant activity with a concentration range of 3.125 to 100 µg/mL. Results The ethanolic extract demonstrated high anti-angiogenic activity in the rat aorta ring with 65.82% inhibition at 100 µg/mL and dose-dependent inhibition with an IC 50 of 54.2 µg/mL. In the CAM assay, acetylsalicylic acid (positive control) resulted in complete suppression of vascularization, validating the assay system. The extract exhibited a concentration-dependent radical scavenging ability of DPPH radical with an IC 50 value of 0.05 µg/mL. Conclusions Lawsonia inermis ethanolic extract has strong anti-angiogenic and antioxidant properties, which implies its possible application as a treatment of angiogenesis-related disorders, such as cancer. The anti-angiogenic effect was confirmed in both ex vivo and in vivo models.
Antioxidant and Anti-Angiogenesis Properties of Aristolochia Maurorum Using Ex Vivo, In Vitro, and In Vivo Studies
Objective This study seeks to examine the anti-angiogenic characteristics of Aristolochia maurorum seed extract through various methodologies, including the extraction process, rat aortic ring assay, chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, and DPPH assay for antioxidant assessment.
Anti-angiogenic and Antioxidant Activities of Juglans Regia L. Green Husk: An Experimental Study using Rat Aortic Ring and CAM Assay
Objective Angiogenesis is the biological process that creates new capillary blood vessels from existing ones. This process is a big part of how tumors grow, spread, and spread to other parts of the body. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-angiogenic and antioxidant activities of different extracts of Juglans regia L. green husk and to explore their potential therapeutic relevance. Methods The rat aortic ring angiogenesis experiment used albino male rats that were twelve to fourteen weeks old. The ethanolic extract of Juglans regia L. was prepared and solubilized in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to form a stock solution. The rat aortic ring assay was employed ex vivo to evaluate the anti-angiogenic characteristics of the plant extract. Results The aqueous extract showed the highest extraction yield (4.46%), followed by the ethanolic (2.15%) and chloroform extracts (1.9%). In the rat aortic ring assay, the ethanolic extract demonstrated the strongest anti-angiogenic activity (52.92% inhibition), followed by the aqueous (32.90%) and chloroform extracts (30.98%) compared with the negative control (p < 0.05). In the CAM assay, the ethanolic extract significantly reduced vascular density, producing approximately 65.4% inhibition of angiogenesis (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the ethanolic extract exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay, with a maximum scavenging activity of 83.7% at 100 µg/mL and an IC50 value of approximately 23.3 µg/mL. Conclusions Juglans regia L. may represent a potential natural source of anti-angiogenic and antioxidant activity for the management of angiogenesis-related disorders.
Antibacterial Evaluation of Volkameria inermis Leaves Cultivated in Iraq
Background: Volkameria inermis is a medicinal plant traditionally used for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Owing to the increasing resistance of pathogenic bacteria to conventional antibiotics, there is a growing interest in exploring plant-derived compounds as alternative therapeutic agents. Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of an ethanolic extract of Volkameria inermis leaves by using an ethanolic solvent that was eighty percent strength. Methods: Samples of leaves were gathered from the center area of Iraq (Al-Musayab), and washed, sorted, and dried in a shaded environment. Through the use of 800 milliliters of 80% ethanol, an extract of Volkameria inermis leaves was created and dried using a rotary evaporator, it was stored in petri dishes that had been sterilized, and one milligram of the extract was dissolved in one milliliter of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). To conduct the antibacterial test using the agar well diffusion technique, the solution was serially diluted to a concentration of 1 mg/ml. The efficacy of an ethanol extract against bacteria as assessed by well diffusion method. Results: When tested against both (Staphylococcus aureus) and (Salmonella typhi) bacteria, the ethanolic extract of Volkameria inermis demonstrated a notable antibacterial effect at a concentration of 500 μg/ml, which resulted in more inhibition zones than the antibiotic ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: The outcomes of this study demonstrated that the Volkameria inermis plant outperformed the drug ciprofloxacin in its antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi.
Evaluation of the Anti-Psoriatic Effect of Topical Dovramilast in an Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis Mouse Model
​ Objective: The aim of the study is to determine the pharmacological effect of phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor (dovramilast) in a psoriasis mice model induced by imiquimod, and to estimate the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in skin tissue (IL-17A, IL-23 and TNF-α). Furthermore, histopathological scores for skin tissue were determined. Methods: Fifty BALB/c male albino mice aged 8 weeks were used in this study. The mice were classified into five groups each group contain ten mice (n=10) as the following, group I (control) contained healthy mice, group II (induction) involve application of imiquimod 5% cream once daily for five consecutive days to produce inflammatory lesions that resemble to plaque psoriasis, group III, IV and V involve application of imiquimod 5% cream then three hours later treatments were applied for five consecutive days were, group III received clobetasol 0.05% ointment, group IV received dovramilast 0.3% ointment and group V utilize combination of formula contain both dovramilast 0.15% with clobetasol 0.025% ointment. Results: The dovramilast-treated group showed a significant reduction in all inflammatory cytokines (IL-17A, IL-23 and TNF-α) compared to induction (P<0.05) and not significantly differ from clobetasol effect. Furthermore, dovramilast/clobetasol combination providing significant reduction in all measured inflammatory cytokines (P<0.05) when compared to induction and non-significantly differ from clobetasol-treated group. Conclusions: Topical dovramilast, alone or in combination with clobetasol, may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of psoriasis
Hepatoprotective Role of Zinc Gluconate against Hepatotoxicity Induced by Mitoxantrone In Rats
Mitoxantrone is a chemotherapeutic very effective against a variety of human malignancies Administration of Mitoxantrone is associated with hepatotoxicity Zinc has protective effect in liver illness. This study aimed to determine the role of zinc gluconate as a hepatoprotective agent in Mitoxantrone induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Methods there were twenty-four male and female rats used. Rats were divided up Into three groups, each consisting of eight animals. Distilled water is in Group I (negative control).Group II Mitoxantrone was delivered intraperitoneally with a dosage of 2.50 mg/ kg in order to achieve a cumulative complete dosage of 7.50 mg /kg by day 20. Group III Zinc gluconate was orally provided at a dosage of 20 mg/ kg/day, and Mitoxantrone was injected intraperitoneally at a rate of 2.50 mg/kg. The goal was to attain a cumulative total dosage of 7.50mg/ kg by day 20.After 48 hours following the completion of the treatment period, diethyl ether was used to euthanize each animal (i.e., on day 22). Serum was used to determine the activity of the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes.Each animal's liver was removed in order to perform a terminal deoxynucleotidyl-transferase-mediated-deoxyuridine-triphosphate, necked labeling (TUNEL) test to detect DNA fragmentation. Results Zinc gluconate significantly (P<0.05) decreased blood ALT and AST, and group III showed a higher percentage of normal hepatocyte cells and a lower percentage of apoptotic cells than group II. Conclusions Zinc gluconate may have a protective effect against the hepatotoxicity induced by Mitoxantrone in rats.
A Review: Schiff Bases as Promising Agents and Their Pharmaceutical Applications
Schiff bases have been a very important category of chemical molecules in medicine and pharmacology over the last several decades. Their structure contains an azomethine functional group (-C=N-).This group is typically formed by the condensation of primary amines with aldehydes or ketones. Schiff bases are relatively easy to synthesize, and their structural versatility allows modification for diverse biological applications. From a medicinal standpoint, Schiff bases have demonstrated a wide range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral effects.Multiple studies suggest that even small alterations in chemical structure, such changes in substituent characteristics or the introduction of heterocyclic groups, may substantially affect biological efficacy. Schiff bases are also recognized for their ability to coordinate with metal ions, which has led to the development of numerous metal complexes with new or improved pharmacological characteristics.The medicinal significance of Schiff bases is further supported by their proposed mechanisms of action, including enzyme inhibition, interaction with microbial cell membranes, DNA binding, and modulation of oxidative stress pathways.These characteristics make Schiff bases attractive frameworks for the development of novel therapeutic agents.This review aims to highlight the pharmaceutical importance of Schiff bases by focusing on their chemical characteristics and key antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer activities, while also discussing their potential applications in drug discovery and development.
Nanotechnology in Multifunctional Anti-Dandruff Shampoos: Synergistic Role of Keratolytic, Anti-fungal, and Herbal Agents: overview
dandruff chronic and recurring scalp condition that characterised by excessive flaking, itching. Overactive sebaceous glands, microbial imbalance, impaired skin barrier function, and susceptibility to infection are among the overlapping causative factors that distinguish it from seborrheic dermatitis. Malassezia fungi, particularly Malassezia pityriasis, play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of dandruff by metabolizing lipids, releasing inflammatory mediators, and disrupting the stratum corneum barrier. Antifungal, exfoliating, and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, and salicylic acid are frequently found in conventional anti-dandruff shampoos. However, these formulations are limited by their low bioavailability, short duration on the scalp, poor penetration into the hair follicles, and the potential for irritation with prolonged use. Recent advances in nanotechnology have enabled the development of novel drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid nanocarriers, polymer nanoparticles, microemulsifiers, and advanced exosome-based systems, significantly improving the effectiveness of anti-dandruff shampoos. In addition to reducing discomfort and the frequency of application, these nanocarriers enhance drug deposition in the scalp, target hair follicles, ensure controlled release, and stabilize active ingredients. Furthermore, herbal enhancers, including coconut oil, aloe vera, green tea and rosemary, possess synergistic antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and scalp barrier-repairing properties when added. Thus, by simultaneously addressing microbial overgrowth, inflammation, and scalp barrier damage, multifunctional, nanotechnology-enhanced shampoos offer an effective approach to tackling the multifactorial nature of dandruff. This review underscores the potential of nanoparticle-based anti-dandruff shampoos to increase therapeutic efficacy by highlighting recent developments, formulation considerations and evaluation techniques, related to these products.
Applications of HPLC in Pharmaceutical Analysis
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is one of the most common analytical techniques used in pharmaceutical testing and in many other scientific fields. It is widely used because it can analyze different types of materials and give accurate and reliable results. HPLC is considered an important and trusted method in many laboratories. This narrative review gives a general explanation of HPLC, including its basic principles, simple instruments, and how the technique works with different samples. In pharmaceutical analysis, HPLC is mainly used in quality control laboratories. It is applied for drug assay, titration tests, impurity analysis, solubility studies, and stability testing. Many studies show that HPLC helps in ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products. In addition, HPLC is used in pharmacovigilance and toxicology to detect degradation products, identify counterfeit drugs, and find harmful or toxic compounds. These applications are important for protecting patient safety and supporting regulatory requirements. HPLC is also used in other fields such as environmental analysis, forensic science, and food analysis. In environmental studies, it helps detect pollutants and trace chemicals in water and soil samples. In forensic laboratories, HPLC is used to identify unknown substances in biological or chemical samples. In food analysis, it is applied to detect additives, contaminants, and residues. Although HPLC instruments have developed over time, proper method development, validation, and correct interpretation of results are still necessary to obtain reliable data for routine laboratory work and pharmaceutical regulatory use.
A New Therapeutic Approach to Improving Movement Disorders
Objective To develop and disseminate a novel multimodal therapeutic concept for movement disorders (MD) that will not only aim at symptom suppression, but on the functional reorganization of motor networks allowing more stable and meaningful recovery. Methods A net-based model was employed by creating three integrated modules: • Pharmacological tuning in network physiology. • There are some interventional and non-invasive co-modulations of the invasive ones. • Task specific motor retraining at therapeutically optimum doses, in order to reconstruct maladaptive circuits. It was constructed through observations in systems neuroscience and functional imaging of network dynamics involving the basal ganglia, cortex, thalamus, and cerebellum. Results The intervention aims beyond alleviation of symptoms to normalize abnormal connectivity, oscillatory activity and maladaptive plasticity in the respective motor networks. While clinical validation is empirical, theoretical analysis supports the idea that combination of pharmacological, neuromodulator and motor retraining approach might promote functional reorganization and would be effective in longer term improvement. Conclusions Such a multimodal, network-informed therapy could outperform current MD approaches by not only relieving symptoms, but also facilitating adaptive motor network reorganization. This combination of therapies is expected to result in such a superior long-term functional outcome and less variability in patient response.
Tocilizumab and IL-6 Signaling in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Clinical Implications for Infection Detection and CRP Limitations (Narrative Review with a Retrospective Case Series)
ABSTRACT objective: To consolidate current knowledge regarding the diagnostic challenges associated with interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibition, to describe reported clinical infections occurring during tocilizumab (TCZ) therapy, and to evaluate its therapeutic efficacy and safety profile. Methods: A retrospective case series was conducted at Tel Aviv Medical Center (Helsinki Committee approved). Nine patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving tocilizumab who developed confirmed infections between 2022 and 2025 were included. Data collected included C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cell (WBC) count, and clinical outcomes. Infection was confirmed based on clinical findings, laboratory investigations, and imaging studies. Results: Nine hospital admissions that met the inclusion criteria were identified. Seven patients were receiving tocilizumab for rheumatoid arthritis, while two were treated for giant cell arteritis. TCZ was administered intravenously once monthly in seven patients and subcutaneously once weekly in two patients. Conclusion: Tocilizumab is effective in rheumatoid arthritis but may mask inflammatory responses by suppressing CRP levels. Clinicians should not rely solely on CRP for infection detection and should incorporate clinical assessment and alternative biomarkers to avoid delayed diagnosis. Keywords: "tocilizumab", "IL-6 blockade", "CRP suppression", "rheumatoid arthritis", and "infection"
In-Silico Profiling of New Mefenamic Acid Derivatives as HDAC 8 Inhibitors
Vital cellular processes such as, proliferation and tumor progression were reported to be centrally controlled by histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes which make them an interesting therapeutic target. Recently, a new paradigm has attracted researches to combine nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and a zinc binding group (ZBG), presenting a synergistic impact on HDAC activity and inflammatory process. In the current study, a novel series of hybrid compounds (A1-6) were designed and evaluated for their HDAC binding affinity by molecular docking technique along with conducting an in-silico ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination) profiling to assess their pharmacokinetic characteristics. Compound A6 displayed the highest binding energy score (-9.539 kcal/mol) with the active site of HDAC 8 enzyme compared with the reference ligand, SAHA (-4.606 kcal/mol). Its worth mentioning that compound A6 has comparable coordination to the catalytic zinc ion with SAHA along with engaging additional hydrophobic and aromatic interaction within the active site of HDAC 8 enzyme. ADME analysis predicated high gastrointestinal absorption for A2, A5, and A6, which also comply with Lipinski's rule, indicating good oral bioavailability. Conversely, A1, A3, and A4 showed moderate absorption, suitable for parenteral or localized/colon-targeted delivery, potentially advantageous for colon cancer treatment. These results highlight these hybrids’ potential as HDAC inhibitors and support further synthesis and biological testing.
Formulation Strategies in Psoriasis: Journey from Traditional Preparations to Advanced Drug Delivery Systems
ABSTRACT Psoriasis (PSO) is an immune-mediated dermatological disorder marked by thick, erythematous, scaly plaques resulting from rapid, excessive cellular growth. Anti-inflammatory agents, immunosuppressant’s, and additional pharmaceuticals serve as the principal therapeutic strategy for psoriasis to alleviate symptoms, diminish inflammation, and inhibit the proliferation and division of epidermal cells. Nevertheless, these drugs generally include disadvantages that impose significant physiological and pathological burdens on patients, including inadequate targeting, brief half-lives, limited absorption rates, and severe toxic side effects. Researchers have recently concentrated significant effort on employing delivery systems for the topical administration of drugs to affected psoriatic skin regions. These systems increase pharmacological efficacy, stability, and penetration. More therapeutic concepts for the treatment of PSO are made possible by the ongoing development of numerous multifunctional topical delivery technologies. This publication reviews various delivery strategies, including hydrogels, nanoparticles, microneedles, micelles, dendrimers, liposomes, nanoemulsions, and vesicles, for topical therapy of PSO and delineates their current developmental status in clinical treatment. It is expected to facilitate the progression of PSO treatment methodologies and provide a benchmark for the development of novel topical delivery systems.
Microneedles: A Revolutionizing Model of Drug Delivery System in Pharmaceutics with Minimal Invasion
One of the most interesting pharmaceutical drug delivery systems with minimally invasive technique are Microneedles. In the recent years, many researchers have concluded that Microneedles can be a leading method in the future. As a drug delivery system, Microneedles can improve drug delivery by avoiding many barriers that were linked with the conventional system, these unique properties could make Microneedles widely used. The primary mechanism for improving drug delivery to the targeted site with minimal complications is by creating micro-sized pores in the skin layer. The growing interest of Microneedles in biomedical and pharmaceutical research is obtained by easy delivery of active ingredient with low invasive technique. Vaccines, peptides, and hormones are examples of molecules delivered by Microneedles. In this review, we will discuss Microneedles efficiency as drug delivery carriers, fabrication materials, and several related patents
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Pharmacology and Drug Development
Effect Exposure of Mobile Radiation on Human Red Blood Cell in Vitro
Objective: Wireless technologies are expanding rapidly, leading to a marked increase in human exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR), mainly in the microwave frequency band emitted by mobile phones. This study aimed to investigate the effect of cell phone–generated microwave radiation on human red blood cells (RBCs) in vitro. Methods: Blood samples were collected from healthy volunteers and exposed to microwaves emitted from mobile phones at a distance of 1 cm for durations of 1, 5, and 20 minutes. Both computerized and manual hematological parameters were analyzed, including hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), RBC count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), aggregation, deformability, and osmotic fragility. Results: A significant reduction in Hb concentration was observed after 20 minutes of exposure, along with a significant decrease in RBC count after 1 minute. The flow rate increased markedly, while aggregation and deformability parameters indicated alterations in the RBC membrane. Conclusion: The findings suggest that non-thermal microwave exposure can affect RBC morphology and function, likely through modifications in membrane integrity and surface charge, which may have implications for blood rheology under prolonged EMR exposure.
Evaluation The Laser Effects on Phage of Acentobacter Bumanii Isolated from Clinical Samples in Iraq/Qadisyiah
Objective: Acinetobacter baumannii is a pathogenic bacterium with clinical attributes of nosocomial infection and resistance to antibiotics. Phage therapy represents a potential solution because it can specifically target MDR strains. This study aimed to isolate and characterize a lytic bacteriophage specific to A. baumannii, evaluate its kinetic and lytic properties, and investigate the effects of laser treatment on enhancing phage antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant clinical isolates. Methods: Clinical specimens were collected from patients in three hospitals in Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq, and A. baumannii isolates were identified using standard biochemical tests, API systems, and 16S rRNA PCR sequencing. Environmental samples were screened to isolate lytic phages, which were propagated, purified, and analyzed using plaque assays and scanning electron microscopy. Phage kinetics—including adsorption rate, eclipse period, lysis time, and burst size—were assessed using standard bacteriophage quantification methods. Laser treatment was applied to evaluate its effect on phage activity under different temperatures and pH conditions. Results: A lytic phage specific to A. baumannii was successfully isolated, exhibiting an icosahedral head and a long tail typical of virulent phages. The phage showed rapid adsorption, a short eclipse period, and a high burst size (~111 phages per infected cell). It demonstrated strong lytic activity at temperatures between 35–45 °C and pH 8–10.5. Laser exposure, at 250 pulses, significantly enhanced phage antibacterial activity, resulting in faster bacterial lysis and increased phage productivity. Conclusions: The combination of phage therapy and laser treatment represents a promising strategy for combating MDR A. baumannii
Smart and Responsive Drug Delivery Systemsfor Diabetic Ulcers: Advances in Pharmaceutical Design
Diabetic ulcer is a significant medical issue affecting millions of patients globally due to consequential morbidity, mortality, and health care system costs. The complex pathophysiological process of delayed wound healing in diabetic patients remains inadequately addressed with conventional treatment modalities. This review summarises recent advances in smart, responsive engineered drug delivery systems for the treatment of diabetic ulcers. Moreover, we exemplify these strategies using emerging technologies, including nanotechnology, hydrogel matrices, stimulus-responsive systems, and bioactives. New methodologies, including next-generation approaches such as 3D-printed scaffolds, nanofiber systems, and theranostic platforms, are presented as alternative treatment options that could change the landscape of diabetes-related wound care. Discussions on the challenges of translation, regulation, and application of new pharma-technologies in clinical research are offered
Extracellular Lipase Production by Aspergillus niger Isolated From Industrial Oil Crops Using Submerged Fermentation
The screening, production, and optimization of extracellular lipase from a fungus Aspergillus niger isolated from different sources were examined in this work. The isolated fungi were screened on tributyrin hydrolysis method to detect exogenous lipolytic activity. A promising lipase producing isolate of A. niger-6 was selected and identified as the highest lipaseproducing strain. The optimal conditions were determined for: inducer oil, carbon source, nitrogen source, initial pH value, incubation temperature, incubation period, inoculum size, and shaking speed for lipase production using one factor at a time approach. Maximum lipase production was observed in 1% olive oil, 2% glucose, 2g/l ammonium sulphate, pH6, 30°C, 5days, 1x106spores/ml-1, and 150 rpm, respectively.
Floating Drug Delivery System: A Promising Approach for Gastroprotective Drug Delivery
Floating Drug Delivery Systems (FDDS) is a very recent approach in the development of oral drug delivery systems, which can be employed to control the gastric emptying time of filled device for both sustained and controlled release (CR) preparations, to locate the CR in a particular site, to minimize the drug loss and to improve drug delivery. These types of systems have a low density, are buoyant in gastric fluid, maintain longer residence time in the stomach with controlled drug release. FDDS can be prepared in tablets, capsules, powders, granules, films and microspheres and are especially valuable when dealing with highly water-soluble drugs with short halflife, having absorption window low in the gut or having instability at intestinal pH. There are several types of FDDS such as effervescent, non-effervescent, raft-forming, the hydrodynamically balanced and the inflatable system that uses different ways to float and consequent modification of release. Their performance is highly dependent upon physiological parameters, such as gastric pH, motility, meal content, age, and body position. FDDS have various advantages such as increased bioavailability, rapid onset of action, a lower frequency of dose administration, better patient compliance, and long site-specific action in the stomach, which is useful in the case of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers. Nevertheless, gastric emptying variability and complexity of the formulation still pose obstacles. Newer excipients and polymers and newer carriers will continue to improve these systems, making FDDS a potential weapon for future gastroprotective and controlled-release therapies.
GIT Microbiome and Pharmacology: Implications for drug Metabolism and Therapeutic Outcomes
Introduction and analysis: A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The paper analyses works published within 2013 and 2025 were highlighted to ensure up-to-date judgements. Microorganism settle with all human body surfaces like gastrointestinal tract. Affecting broad of aspects regarding body physiological activities as a mediator, homeostasis, metabolism, inflammatory responses and most important is the interaction between gut microbiota enzymes and orally administered drugs. The review discuss many interventions regards microbiota within drugs that leads to hinder and fluctuates the bioavailability and effectiveness. Some interactions lead to reduce the efficacy of intake drugs while other may boost the therapy, by its effect on absorption, metabolism and reconditioning. A list of examples easy to access within database reveals the dug microbiota interaction by different mechanism, this review shows few examples upon different way of interaction to present a clear understands to such interventions. Conclusion: It is worthy to aim targeting the gut microbiota in different diseases, to assist in slow progression and improve the treatment. Therefore, by concentrating on all of these gaps and offering a genuine answer through creative methods, new trustworthy diagnostic tools, and microbiome targeted therapy, it is hoped to reduce response fluctuation and improve quality of life.
Association of Apolipoprotein E Gene Polymorphisms with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Case-Control Study
Objective: To compare the distribution of ApoE polymorphisms between women with PCOS and healthy controls to explore whether specific ApoE genotypes contribute to the genetic susceptibility of developing PCOS, and to investigate the association between APOE gene polymorphisms and lipid profiles in PCOS patients. Methods: A case-control study was conducted between November 2023 and January 2025, enrolling 120 women with PCOS diagnosed according to Rotterdam criteria and 60 age-matched healthy controls. Participants underwent comprehensive clinical assessment, hormonal evaluation (FSH, LH, total and free testosterone), lipid profiling, and inflammatory marker analysis. DNA extraction was performed from whole blood, followed by PCR amplification and direct sequencing of ApoE gene fragments containing SNPs rs429358 and rs7412. Results: PCOS participants demonstrated significantly higher age, body weight, and height compared to controls (p<0.05). Hormonal analysis revealed characteristic PCOS patterns with elevated LH, total testosterone, free testosterone, and C-reactive protein levels, alongside reduced FSH concentrations (p<0.001). Lipid profile analysis showed significantly higher total cholesterol and LDL levels, with lower HDL concentrations in PCOS patients (p<0.05). Genetic analysis identified three ApoE genotypes (ε3ε3, ε2ε3, ε3ε4), with ε3ε3 being most prevalent in both groups. No significant differences were observed in ApoE genotype or allele distribution between PCOS patients and controls (p>0.05). However, within the PCOS group, ε4 allele carriers exhibited significantly elevated total cholesterol (p=0.039), triglycerides (p=0.013), and VLDL levels (p=0.026) compared to ε2 and ε3 carriers. Conclusions: ApoE gene polymorphisms do not appear to significantly influence PCOS susceptibility, as genotype distributions were comparable between patients and controls. However, ApoE variants, particularly the ε4 allele, may modulate metabolic dysfunction severity in women with established PCOS, potentially affecting cardiovascular risk stratification and therapeutic management approaches.
From Diagnosis to Therapy: A Comprehensive Review on the Role of Radioactive Isotopes in Thyroid Cancer Management
The use of radioactive isotopes in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer is now an integral part of modern nuclear medicine. Gamma-emitting isotopes such as technetium-99m and iodine-123 serve as the main diagnostic imaging weapon enabling great sensitivity and specificity, non-invasive functional visualization of thyroid physiology and disease. Todine-131 is the dominant therapeutic isotope, emitting cytotoxic beta radiation for the treatment of metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer and thyroid remnant ablation. The effectiveness of radioactive iodine treatment is dependent on various factors including sodium-iodide symporter expression as well as dosimetry methods seeking to maximize absorbed dosages whilst simultaneously achieving successful treatment alongside minimizing non-target organ toxicity. Molecular radiotheragnostics and personalized dosimetry methods are slowly entering the clinical routine and will ensure higher diagnostic power and treatment efficacy in the future. Radioiodine-refractory thyroid cancers have long been challenging to manage, warranting novel approaches to integrate molecular biology, targeted therapies and immunotherapy. The changing context of radionuclide use in thyroid care highlights the necessity of multidisciplinary approaches, which promise to increase patient outcomes and the management of thyroid cancer