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Jayashankar SS, Nasaruddin ML, Hassan MF, Dasrilsyah RA, Shafiee MN, Ismail NAS, Alias E. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Reliability, Challenges, and Future Directions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2570. [PMID: 37568933 PMCID: PMC10417786 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive prenatal testing was first discovered in 1988; it was primarily thought to be able to detect common aneuploidies, such as Patau syndrome (T13), Edward Syndrome (T18), and Down syndrome (T21). It comprises a simple technique involving the analysis of cell-free foetal DNA (cffDNA) obtained through maternal serum, using advances in next-generation sequencing. NIPT has shown promise as a simple and low-risk screening test, leading various governments and private organizations worldwide to dedicate significant resources towards its integration into national healthcare initiatives as well as the formation of consortia and research studies aimed at standardizing its implementation. This article aims to review the reliability of NIPT while discussing the current challenges prevalent among different communities worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva Shantini Jayashankar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
| | - Muhammad Luqman Nasaruddin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
| | | | - Rima Anggrena Dasrilsyah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia;
| | - Mohamad Nasir Shafiee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Noor Akmal Shareela Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (S.S.J.); (M.L.N.); (N.A.S.I.)
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Davan I, Fakurazi S, Alias E, Ibrahim N'I, Hwei NM, Hassan H. Astaxanthin as a Potent Antioxidant for Promoting Bone Health: An Up-to-Date Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1480. [PMID: 37508018 PMCID: PMC10376010 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, bone loss and its associated diseases have become a significant public health concern due to increased disability, morbidity, and mortality. Oxidative stress and bone loss are correlated, where oxidative stress suppresses osteoblast activity, resulting in compromised homeostasis between bone formation and resorption. This event causes upregulation of bone remodeling turnover rate with an increased risk of fractures and bone loss. Therefore, supplementation of antioxidants can be proposed to reduce oxidative stress, facilitate the bone remodeling process, suppress the initiation of bone diseases, and improve bone health. Astaxanthin (3,3'-dihydroxy-4-4'-diketo-β-β carotene), a potent antioxidant belonging to the xanthophylls family, is a potential ROS scavenger and could be a promising therapeutic nutraceutical possessing various pharmacological properties. In bone, astaxanthin enhances osteoblast differentiation, osteocytes numbers, and/or differentiation, inhibits osteoclast differentiation, cartilage degradation markers, and increases bone mineral density, expression of osteogenic markers, while reducing bone loss. In this review, we presented the up-to-date findings of the potential anabolic effects of astaxanthin on bone health in vitro, animal, and human studies by providing comprehensive evidence for its future clinical application, especially in treating bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iswari Davan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Sharida Fakurazi
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Nurul 'Izzah Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Ng Min Hwei
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Haniza Hassan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Malaysia
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Subramaniam R, Vijakumaran U, Shanmuganantha L, Law JX, Alias E, Ng MH. The Role and Mechanism of MicroRNA 21 in Osteogenesis: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11330. [PMID: 37511090 PMCID: PMC10379984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are short, single-stranded ribonucleic acids expressed endogenously in the body to regulate gene expression at the post-translational level, with exogenous microRNA offering an attractive approach to therapy. Among the myriad microRNA candidates involved in controlling bone homeostasis and remodeling, microRNA 21 (miR21) is the most abundant. This paper discusses the studies conducted on the role and mechanism of human miR21 (hsa-miR21) in the regulation of bones and the various pathways mediated by miR21, and explores the feasibility of employing exogenous miR21 as a strategy for promoting osteogenesis. From the literature review, it was clear that miR21 plays a dual role in bone metabolism by regulating both bone formation and bone resorption. There is substantial evidence to date from both in vitro and in vivo studies that exogenous miR21 can successfully accelerate new bone synthesis in the context of bone loss due to injury or osteoporosis. This supports the exploration of applications of exogenous miR21 in bone regenerative therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revatyambigai Subramaniam
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras 56000, Malaysia
| | - Ubashini Vijakumaran
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras 56000, Malaysia
| | - Lohashenpahan Shanmuganantha
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras 56000, Malaysia
| | - Jia-Xian Law
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras 56000, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras 56000, Malaysia
| | - Min-Hwei Ng
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras 56000, Malaysia
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Mohamad Hazir NS, Yahaya NHM, Zawawi MSF, Damanhuri HA, Mohamed N, Alias E. Changes in Metabolism and Mitochondrial Bioenergetics during Polyethylene-Induced Osteoclastogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158331. [PMID: 35955464 PMCID: PMC9368566 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in mitochondrial bioenergetics are believed to take place during osteoclastogenesis. This study aims to assess changes in mitochondrial bioenergetics and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels during polyethylene (PE)-induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro. For this purpose, RAW264.7 cells were cultured for nine days and allowed to differentiate into osteoclasts in the presence of PE and RANKL. The total TRAP-positive cells, resorption activity, expression of osteoclast marker genes, ROS level, mitochondrial bioenergetics, glycolysis, and substrate utilization were measured. The effect of tocotrienols-rich fraction (TRF) treatment (50 ng/mL) on those parameters during PE-induced osteoclastogenesis was also studied. During PE-induced osteoclastogenesis, as depicted by an increase in TRAP-positive cells and gene expression of osteoclast-related markers, higher proton leak, higher extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), as well as higher levels of ROS and NADPH oxidases (NOXs) were observed in the differentiated cells. The oxidation level of some substrates in the differentiated group was higher than in other groups. TRF treatment significantly reduced the number of TRAP-positive osteoclasts, bone resorption activity, and ROS levels, as well as modulating the gene expression of antioxidant-related genes and mitochondrial function. In conclusion, changes in mitochondrial bioenergetics and substrate utilization were observed during PE-induced osteoclastogenesis, while TRF treatment modulated these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Shukriyah Mohamad Hazir
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (N.S.M.H.); (H.A.D.)
- Clinical Laboratory Section, Institute of Medical Science Technology, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, A1-1, Jalan TKS 1, Taman Kajang Sentral, Kajang 43000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nor Hamdan Mohamad Yahaya
- Department of Orthopaedics, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Muhamad Syahrul Fitri Zawawi
- Department of Orthopaedics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kota Bharu 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia;
| | - Hanafi Ahmad Damanhuri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (N.S.M.H.); (H.A.D.)
| | - Norazlina Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (N.S.M.H.); (H.A.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-3-91459559
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Mohd Zaffarin AS, Ng SF, Ng MH, Hassan H, Alias E. Nano-Hydroxyapatite as a Delivery System for Promoting Bone Regeneration In Vivo: A Systematic Review. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2021; 11:2569. [PMID: 34685010 PMCID: PMC8538947 DOI: 10.3390/nano11102569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) has been widely used as an orthopedic biomaterial and vehicle for drug delivery owing to its chemical and structural similarity to bone minerals. Several studies have demonstrated that nHA based biomaterials have a potential effect for bone regeneration with very minimal to no toxicity or inflammatory response. This systematic review aims to provide an appraisal of the effectiveness of nHA as a delivery system for bone regeneration and whether the conjugation of proteins, antibiotics, or other bioactive molecules to the nHA further enhances osteogenesis in vivo. Out of 282 articles obtained from the literature search, only 14 articles met the inclusion criteria for this review. These studies showed that nHA was able to induce bone regeneration in various animal models with large or critical-sized bone defects, open fracture, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-induced osteomyelitis. The conjugations of drugs or bioactive molecules such as bone-morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), vancomycin, calcitriol, dexamethasone, and cisplatin were able to enhance the osteogenic property of nHA. Thus, nHA is a promising delivery system for a variety of compounds in promoting bone regeneration in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anis Syauqina Mohd Zaffarin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bandar Tun Razak 56000, W.P. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Shiow-Fern Ng
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, W.P. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Min Hwei Ng
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bandar Tun Razak 56000, W.P. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Haniza Hassan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bandar Tun Razak 56000, W.P. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
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Hassan H, Adam SK, Alias E, Meor Mohd Affandi MMR, Shamsuddin AF, Basir R. Central Composite Design for Formulation and Optimization of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles to Enhance Oral Bioavailability of Acyclovir. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26185432. [PMID: 34576904 PMCID: PMC8470285 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26185432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of herpes simplex infection requires high and frequent doses of oral acyclovir to attain its maximum therapeutic effect. The current therapeutic regimen of acyclovir is known to cause unwarranted dose-related adverse effects, including acute kidney injury. For this reason, a suitable delivery system for acyclovir was developed to improve the pharmacokinetic limitations and ultimately administer the drug at a lower dose and/or less frequently. In this study, solid lipid nanoparticles were designed to improve the oral bioavailability of acyclovir. The central composite design was applied to investigate the influence of the materials on the physicochemical properties of the solid lipid nanoparticles, and the optimized formulation was further characterized. Solid lipid nanoparticles formulated from Compritol 888 ATO resulted in a particle size of 108.67 ± 1.03 nm with an entrapment efficiency of 91.05 ± 0.75%. The analyses showed that the optimum combination of surfactant and solid lipid produced solid lipid nanoparticles of good quality with controlled release property and was stable at refrigerated and room temperature for at least 3 months. A five-fold increase in oral bioavailability of acyclovir-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles was observed in rats compared to commercial acyclovir suspension. This study has presented promising results that solid lipid nanoparticles could potentially be used as an oral drug delivery vehicle for acyclovir due to their excellent properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haniza Hassan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.K.A.); (R.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-3-9769-2665
| | - Siti Khadijah Adam
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.K.A.); (R.B.)
| | - Ekram Alias
- UKM Medical Centre, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaakob Latiff, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | | | - Ahmad Fuad Shamsuddin
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, Ipoh 30450, Malaysia;
| | - Rusliza Basir
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.K.A.); (R.B.)
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Mohd Fozi NF, Jam Jolly J, Chua KH, Alias E, Chin KY, Soelaiman IN. Comparing the Effects of Alpha-Tocopherol and Tocotrienol Isomers on Osteoblasts hFOB 1.19 Cultured on Bovine Bone Scaffold. SAINS MALAYS 2021. [DOI: 10.17576/jsm-2021-5008-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tocotrienol mixtures have been shown to exert anabolic actions on the skeletal system in animal studies, but it is unclear which tocotrienol isomer shows the most prominent effects. This study aims to investigate the most active tocotrienol isomers using hFOB 1.19 human osteoblasts cultured on a bovine bone scaffold. The bovine trabecular bone was sectioned, demineralised and freeze-dried to form the scaffold. hFOB 1.19 osteoblasts were cultured on the bone scaffolds in humidified condition at 37 °C and 5% carbon dioxide with vitamin E isomers (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-tocotrienol and alpha-tocopherol). The cell differentiation capacity of tocotrienol isomers was investigated through morphological observation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteocalcin expression. Changes in the bone scaffolds were determined using histomorphometry methods. Osteoblast culture treated with gamma- and delta-tocotrienols showed a significant increase in ALP activity and osteocalcin expression. Bone structural histomorphometry analysis showed that bone scaffolds treated with gamma- and delta-tocotrienol showed significant increases in bone volume and trabecular thickness. In conclusion, gamma- and delta-tocotrienol show the most prominent bone anabolic effects by increasing osteoblast differentiation and enhancing bone microstructure.
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Jolly JJ, Mohd Fozi NF, Chin KY, Wong SK, Chua KH, Alias E, Adnan NS, Ima-Nirwana S. Skeletal microenvironment system utilising bovine bone scaffold co-cultured with human osteoblasts and osteoclast-like cells. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:680. [PMID: 33986845 PMCID: PMC8112126 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A three-dimensional ex vivo bone cell culture system mimicking the skeletal system is useful for bone tissue engineering and as drug discovery platforms. The present study aimed to establish a three-dimensional skeletal culture system using native bovine bone scaffolds and human bone cells. Bovine bone scaffolds were cultured with human foetal osteoblasts 1.19 and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells for 21 days under standard culture conditions. The following groups were established: Decalcified unseeded bone scaffold (DUBS) as baseline control, decalcified seeded bone scaffold (DSBS) to mimic osteoporosis condition and undecalcified seeded bone scaffold to mimic normal condition. The scaffold's porosity and cell attachment on the scaffolds were determined using scanning electron microscopy. Histological evaluation was used to examine changes in trabecular bone structure. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry analysis was performed to determine the bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) of the scaffolds. A compression test was performed to examine the total biomechanical strength of the scaffolds. The trabecular thickness and number increased, while the trabecular separationwas reduced slightly in DSBS than in DUBS (P>0.05). The BMD and BMC increased significantly (P<0.05), while the compressive strength only increased slightly in DSBS than in DUBS (P>0.05). In conclusion, the ex vivo skeletal microenvironment comprising native bovine bone scaffolds seeded with bone cells is structurally, functionally and mechanically comparable with natural bone. This system may be used as a platform to understand bone physiology and screen for potential drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Jam Jolly
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Nur Farhana Mohd Fozi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Kok-Yong Chin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Department of Urology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 201112, P.R. China
| | - Sok Kuan Wong
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Kien Hui Chua
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Nur Sabariah Adnan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Soelaiman Ima-Nirwana
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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Mohd Zaffarin AS, Ng SF, Ng MH, Hassan H, Alias E. Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics of Vitamin E: Nanoformulations to Enhance Bioavailability. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:9961-9974. [PMID: 33324057 PMCID: PMC7733471 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s276355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin E belongs to the family of lipid-soluble vitamins and can be divided into two groups, tocopherols and tocotrienols, with four isomers (alpha, beta, gamma and delta). Although vitamin E is widely known as a potent antioxidant, studies have also revealed that vitamin E possesses anti-inflammatory properties. These crucial properties of vitamin E are beneficial in various aspects of health, especially in neuroprotection and cardiovascular, skin and bone health. However, the poor bioavailability of vitamin E, especially tocotrienols, remains a great limitation for clinical applications. Recently, nanoformulations that include nanovesicles, solid-lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, and polymeric nanoparticles have shown promising outcomes in improving the efficacy and bioavailability of vitamin E. This review focuses on the pharmacological properties and pharmacokinetics of vitamin E and current advances in vitamin E nanoformulations for future clinical applications. The limitations and future recommendations are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anis Syauqina Mohd Zaffarin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Shiow-Fern Ng
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Min Hwei Ng
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 56000, Malaysia
| | - Haniza Hassan
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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Radzi NFM, Ismail NAS, Alias E. Tocotrienols Regulate Bone Loss through Suppression on Osteoclast Differentiation and Activity: A Systematic Review. Curr Drug Targets 2019; 19:1095-1107. [PMID: 29412105 PMCID: PMC6094554 DOI: 10.2174/1389450119666180207092539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background There are accumulating studies reporting that vitamin E in general exhibits bone protective effects. This systematic review, however discusses the effects of a group of vitamin E isomers, tocotrienols in preventing bone loss through osteoclast differentiation and activity suppression. Objective This review is aimed to discuss the literature reporting the effects of tocotrienols on osteoclasts, the cells specialized for resorbing bone. Results Out of the total 22 studies from the literature search, only 11 of them were identified as relevant, which comprised of eight animal studies, two in vitro studies and only one combination of both. The in vivo studies indicated that tocotrienols improve the bone health and reduce bone loss via inhibition of osteoclast formation and resorption activity, which could be through regulation of RANKL and OPG expression as seen from their levels in the sera. This is well supported by data from the in vitro studies demonstrating the suppression of osteoclast formation and resorption activity following treatment with tocotrienol isomers. Conclusion Thus, tocotrienols are suggested to be potential antioxidants for prevention and treatment of bone-related diseases characterized by increased bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Fathiah Mohd Radzi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noor Akmal Shareela Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Jayusman PA, Mohamed IN, Alias E, Mohamed N, Shuid AN. The Effects of Quassinoid-Rich Eurycoma longifolia Extract on Bone Turnover and Histomorphometry Indices in the Androgen-Deficient Osteoporosis Rat Model. Nutrients 2018; 10:E799. [PMID: 29933617 PMCID: PMC6073572 DOI: 10.3390/nu10070799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Male osteoporosis is associated with higher rates of disability and mortality. Hence the search for suitable intervention and treatment to prevent the degeneration of skeletal health in men is necessary. Eurycoma longifolia (EL), a traditional plant with aphrodisiac potential may be used to treat and prevent male osteoporosis. The skeletal protective effect of quassinoid-rich EL extract, which has a high content of eurycomanone, has not been studied. This study aimed to determine whether EL could prevent skeletal deteriorations in gonadal hormone-deficient male rats. Ninety-six male Sprague⁻Dawley rats were randomly assigned to baseline, sham-operated (Sham), orchidectomised or chemically castrated groups. Chemical castration was achieved via subcutaneous injection of degarelix at 2 mg/kg. The orchidectomised and degarelix-castrated rats were then divided into negative control groups (ORX, DGX), testosterone-treated groups (intramuscular injection at 7 mg/kg weekly) (ORX + TES, DGX + TES), and EL-supplemented groups receiving daily oral gavages at doses of 25 mg/kg (ORX + EL25, DGX + EL25), 50 mg/kg (ORX + EL50, DGX + EL50), and 100 mg/kg (ORX + EL100, DGX + EL100). Following 10 weeks of treatment, the rats were euthanized and their blood and femora were collected. Bone biochemical markers, serum testosterone, osteoprotegerin (OPG), and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa β-ligand (RANKL) levels and histomorphometric indices were evaluated. Quassinoid-rich EL supplementation was found to reduce degenerative changes of trabecular structure by improving bone volume, trabecular number, and separation. A reduction in the percentage of osteoclast and increase in percentage of osteoblast on bone surface were also seen with EL supplementation. Dynamic histomorphometric analysis showed that the single-labeled surface was significantly decreased while the double-labeled surface was significantly increased with EL supplementations. There was a marginal but significant increase in serum testosterone levels in the ORX + EL25, DGX + EL50, and DGX + EL100 groups compared to their negative control groups. Quassinoid-rich EL extract was effective in reducing skeletal deteriorations in the androgen-deficient osteoporosis rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putri Ayu Jayusman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Isa Naina Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Norazlina Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ahmad Nazrun Shuid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Jolly JJ, Chin KY, Alias E, Chua KH, Soelaiman IN. Protective Effects of Selected Botanical Agents on Bone. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2018; 15:E963. [PMID: 29751644 PMCID: PMC5982002 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15050963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a serious health problem affecting more than 200 million elderly people worldwide. The early symptoms of this disease are hardly detectable. It causes progressive bone loss, which ultimately renders the patients susceptible to fractures. Osteoporosis must be prevented because the associated fragility fractures result in high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Many plants used in herbal medicine contain bioactive compounds possessing skeletal protective effects. This paper explores the anti-osteoporotic properties of selected herbal plants, including their actions on osteoblasts (bone forming cells), osteoclasts (bone resorbing cells), and bone remodelling. Some of the herbal plant families included in this review are Berberidaceae, Fabaceae, Arecaceae, Labiatae, Simaroubaceaea, and Myrsinaceae. Their active constituents, mechanisms of action, and pharmaceutical applications were discussed. The literature shows that very few herbal plants have undergone human clinical trials to evaluate their pharmacological effects on bone to date. Therefore, more intensive research should be performed on these plants to validate their anti-osteoporotic properties so that they can complement the currently available conventional drugs in the battle against osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Jam Jolly
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Kok-Yong Chin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Kien Hui Chua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Ima Nirwana Soelaiman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Jolly JJ, Chin KY, Farhana MFN, Alias E, Chua KH, Hasan WNW, Ima-Nirwana S. Optimization of the Static Human Osteoblast/Osteoclast Co-culture System. Iran J Med Sci 2018; 43:208-213. [PMID: 29749990 PMCID: PMC5936853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Osteoblasts (OBs) and osteoclasts (OCs) are 2 major groups of bone cells. Their cell-to-cell interactions are important to ensure the continuity of the bone-remodeling process. Therefore, the present study was carried out to optimize an OB/OC co-culture system utilizing the human OB cell line hFOB 1.19 and OCs extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs). It was a 2-step procedure, involving the optimization of the OB culture and the co-culture of the OBs with PBMNCs at an optimum ratio. Firstly, pre-OBs were cultured to 90% confluency and the time required for differentiation was determined. OB differentiation was determined using the van Gieson staining to detect the presence of collagen and Alizarin Red for calcium. Secondly, OBs and OCs were co-cultured at the ratios of 1 OC: 1 OB, 1 OC: 4 OBs, 2 OCs: 1 OB, and 1 OC: 2 OBs. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to detect the differentiation of the OCs. The results showed that collagen was present on day 1, whereas calcium was detected as early as day 3. Based on the result of TRAP staining, 1 OC: 2 OBs was taken as the most appropriate ratio. No macrophage colony-stimulating factor and receptor activator of the nuclear factor-κB ligand were added because they were provided by the OBs. In conclusion, these optimization processes are vital as they ensure the exact time point and ratio of the OB/OC co-culture in order to produce a reliable and reproducible co-culture system.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Jam Jolly
- Departments of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kok-Yong Chin
- Departments of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Fozi Nur Farhana
- Departments of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Departments of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kien Hui Chua
- Departments of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Nuraini Wan Hasan
- Departments of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soelaiman Ima-Nirwana
- Departments of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Jayusman PA, Mohamed IN, Alias E, Dom SM, Shuid AN. Effects of standardized quassinoid-rich Eurycoma longifolia extract in a rat model of osteoporosis due to testosterone deficiency: A densitometric, morphometric and biomechanical study. J Xray Sci Technol 2018; 26:643-656. [PMID: 29689767 DOI: 10.3233/xst-17366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eurycoma longifolia (EL) is a well-known aphrodisiac herb for men. Recently, the crude extract of EL was reported to possess anti-osteoporotic activities. OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine the bone protective effects of the standardized quassinoid-rich EL extract in testosterone-deficient rat model. METHODS Ninety-six intact male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into baseline, sham, orchidectomized, and chemically castrated groups. Chemical castration was performed via subcutaneous injection of degarelix at 2 mg/kg. The orchidectomized and degarelix-induced rats were administered with vehicle, intramuscularly injected with testosterone once a week, or orally supplemented with EL extract at doses of 25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg daily for 10 weeks. Bone mass, microarchitecture and strength were analyzed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), micro-CT and three-point bending test. RESULTS Whole body bone mineral density and femoral bone mineral content significantly increased in testosterone groups (p < 0.05). Micro-CT analysis revealed that trabecular bone volume, number, separation and connectivity density were significantly improved by testosterone administration. However, the structural model index was only improved in degarelix group supplemented with 100 mg/kg EL extract (P < 0.05). The improvement of cortical thickness by EL extract was similar to that of testosterone groups (p < 0.05). Biomechanically, EL extract supplementation was able to improve stiffness, strain and modulus of elasticity in degarelix-induced groups, while stress parameter was significantly improved in orchidectomized groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Quassinoid-rich EL extract enables to protect against bone loss due to testosterone deficiency. The protective effect on cortical thickness and biomechanical parameters is comparable to testosterone group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putri Ayu Jayusman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Isa Naina Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sulaiman Md Dom
- Department of Medical Imaging, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Nazrun Shuid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Keshtkar F, William R, Alias E, Kearns V. Identifying a Suitable Bruch's Membrane for transplantation in Age Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Surg 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2017.08.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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16
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Chong LA, Khalid F, Khoo TB, Teh SH, Kuan GL, Aina Mariana AM, Alias E, Chieng CH, Razali H, Ong GB, Zainah SH, Shukor INC, Wong JJ. Clinical spectrum of children receiving palliative care in Malaysian Hospitals. Med J Malaysia 2017; 72:32-36. [PMID: 28255137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Awareness for paediatric palliative care has resulted in the impetus for paediatrician-led palliative care services across Malaysia. However, there is paucity of local data on patients receiving hospital-based paediatric palliative care. We aim to review the clinical spectrum of patients referred to these services. METHODS An observational study of children aged between 0-18 years receiving palliative care at 13 hospitals between 1st January and 31st December 2014 was carried out. RESULTS There were 315 patients analysed, 90 (28.6%) and 46 (14.6%) were neonates and adolescents respectively. The main ICD-10 diagnostic categories for all patients were identified to be 'Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities' 117 (37.1%), 'Diseases of nervous system' 76 (24.1%) and 'Neoplasms' 60 (19.0%). At referral 156 (50%) patients had holistic needs assessments. Patients with 'Diseases of nervous system' were assessed to have significantly more physical needs than the other two diagnostic categories. Majority of patients who knew of their diagnosis and prognosis were those with malignancy. Over a fifth of referrals were at their terminal admission. Of 144 who died, 111 (77.1%) had advanced care plans. There was bereavement follow-up in 98 (68.1%) patients. CONCLUSION Patients referred for palliative care have varied diagnoses and needs. To ensure all paediatricians are competent to deliver quality care to all children, further education and training initiatives is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Chong
- Hospis Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - F Khalid
- Universiti Putra Malaysia, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - T B Khoo
- Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - S H Teh
- Hospital Miri, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - G L Kuan
- Malacca Hospital, Malacca, Malaysia
| | | | - E Alias
- Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - H Razali
- Hospital Sultan Ismail, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - G B Ong
- Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - S H Zainah
- Hospital Sultanah Nora Ismail, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - J J Wong
- Hospital Pakar Sultanah Fatimah, Muar, Johor, Malaysia
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Ismail NAS, Alias E, Arifin KT, Damanhuri MHA, Karim NA, Aan GJ. Perception of content and non-content expert facilitators of PBL according to students' performance levels. Pak J Med Sci 2016; 31:1537-41. [PMID: 26870131 PMCID: PMC4744316 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.316.8691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centred learning system that involves multidisciplinary fields focused on problem solving. Facilitators of PBL are not necessarily content experts but little is known on how this concept has affected the outcomes of PBL sessions in learning Medical Biochemistry. We aimed to evaluate the impact of having the content expert as a facilitator in conducting PBL. METHODS A total of 150 first and second year medical students from the University Kebangsaan Malaysia were interviewed with a validated set of questions to acquire their views on the roles of facilitators in PBL in learning Medical Biochemistry. Their achievement were evaluated through their essay marks derived from various PBL packages. RESULTS All respondents agreed that PBL sessions associated with Medical Biochemistry are best appreciated when conducted by a content-expert facilitator. Their exam marks reflected well on their perception. CONCLUSION PBL sessions related to Medical Biochemistry is best facilitated by Biochemistry lecturers as the content experts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Akmal Shareela Ismail
- Dr. Noor Akmal Shareela Ismail, PhD. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ekram Alias
- Dr. Ekram Alias, PhD. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Khaizurin Tajul Arifin
- Dr. Khaizurin Tajul Arifin, PhD. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hanafi A Damanhuri
- Dr. Mohd Hanafi A Damanhuri, PhD. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norwahidah Abd Karim
- Dr. Norwahidah Abd Karim, PhD. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Goon Jo Aan
- Dr. Goon Jo Aan, PhD. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Hakim L, Alias E, Makpol S, Ngah WZW, Morad NA, Yusof YAM. Gelam honey and ginger potentiate the anti cancer effect of 5-FU against HCT 116 colorectal cancer cells. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2014; 15:4651-7. [PMID: 24969899 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2014.15.11.4651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of chemopreventive approaches using a concoction of phytochemicals is potentially viable for combating many types of cancer including colon carcinogenesis. This study evaluated the anti-proliferative effects of ginger and Gelam honey and its efficacy in enhancing the anti-cancer effects of 5-FU (5-fluorouracil) against a colorectal cancer cell line, HCT 116. Cell viability was measured via MTS (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulphenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) assay showing ginger inhibiting the growth of HCT 116 cells more potently (IC50 of 3mg/mL) in comparison to Gelam honey (IC50 of 75 mg/mL). Combined treatment of the two compounds (3mg/mL ginger+75 mg/mL Gelam honey) synergistically lowered the IC50 of Gelam honey to 22 mg/mL. Combination with 35 mg/mL Gelam honey markedly enhanced 5-FU inhibiting effects on the growth of HCT 116 cells. Subsequent analysis on the induction of cellular apoptosis suggested that individual treatment of ginger and Gelam honey produced higher apoptosis than 5-FU alone. In addition, treatment with the combination of two natural compounds increased the apoptotic rate of HCT 116 cells dose- dependently while treatment of either ginger or Gelam honey combined with 5-FU only showed modest changes. Combination index analysis showed the combination effect of both natural compounds to be synergistic in their inhibitory action against HCT 116 colon cancer cells (CI 0.96 < 1). In conclusion, combined treatment of Gelam honey and ginger extract could potentially enhance the chemotherapeutic effect of 5-FU against colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luqman Hakim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine; Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia E-mail : ,
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Crotti TN, Dharmapatni AASSK, Alias E, Zannettino ACW, Smith MD, Haynes DR. The immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM) -related factors are increased in synovial tissue and vasculature of rheumatoid arthritic joints. Arthritis Res Ther 2012; 14:R245. [PMID: 23146195 PMCID: PMC3674611 DOI: 10.1186/ar4088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM) pathway provides osteoclast co-stimulatory signals and regulates proliferation, survival and differentiation of effector immune cells. In the osteoclast, the receptors Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) and Osteoclast Associated Receptor (OSCAR) and their respective adaptor proteins, DAP12 and FcRγ mediate ITAM signals and induce calcium signaling and the crucial transcription factor, NFATc1. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), OSCAR expression by monocytes is inversely correlated with disease activity. Additionally, serum levels of OSCAR are reduced in RA patients versus healthy controls suggesting that expression and secretion or cleavage of soluble (s) OSCAR is immune modulated. Recent data suggest that endothelial cells may also be a source of OSCAR. Methods ITAM receptors, their adaptor proteins, and NFATc1 and cathepsin K were detected in human synovial tissues by immunohistochemistry. Synovial tissues from patients with active RA were compared with tissue from patients in remission, osteoarthritis (OA) patients and healthy individuals. OSCAR was measured by immunoassay in synovial fluids recovered from active RA and OA patients. Endothelial cells were cultured with or without 5 ng/mL TNF-α or IL-1β over 72 hours. Temporal expression of OSCAR mRNA was assessed by qRT PCR and OSCAR protein in the supernatant was measured by ELISA. Results Significantly higher (P < 0.05) NFATc1-positive inflammatory cell aggregates were found in active RA tissues than in healthy synovial tissue. Similarly, the percentage of OSCAR, FcRγ, DAP12 and TREM2 positive cells was significantly higher in active RA tissues compared to the healthy synovial tissue. Notably, OSCAR was strongly expressed in the microvasculature of the active RA tissues (9/9), inactive RA (8/9) weakly in OA (4/9) but only in the lumen of healthy synovial tissue (0/8). OSCAR levels were detected in synovial fluids from both RA (47 to 152 ng/mL) and OA (112 to 145 ng/mL) patients. Moreover, OSCAR mRNA expression and soluble OSCAR release was stimulated by TNF-α and IL1-β in cultured endothelial cells. Conclusions Increased levels of ITAM related factors were present in synovial tissue from active RA joints compared to OA and healthy joints. OSCAR was strongly expressed by the vasculature of active RA patients and membrane bound and soluble OSCAR was stimulated by inflammatory mediators in endothelial cells in vitro.
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Pérez-Iñigo MA, González I, Fernández FJ, Díaz S, Ferrer C, Alias E, Honrubia FM. [Usefulness of apraclonidine in the diagnosis of Horner syndrome]. Arch Soc Esp Oftalmol 2009; 84:105-108. [PMID: 19253181 DOI: 10.4321/s0365-66912009000200009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
CASE REPORTS We present four cases: two males with Horner Syndrome, who were diagnosed by means of apraclonidine 0.5% and cocaine 4% tests respectively. Two children with anisocoria, one of whom had Horner Syndrome confirmed with apraclonidine 1% and the other, in whom an apraclonidine test ruled out this syndrome but in whom pilocarpine 0.125% confirmed Adie's pupil. DISCUSSION Apraclonidine drops (1% and 0.5%) may aid in the diagnosis of Horner Syndrome and are easier to obtain than cocaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Pérez-Iñigo
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, España.
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Borque E, Ferreras A, Polo V, Larrosa JM, Alias E, Honrubia FM. [Evaluation of four new discriminant functions for HRT II in glaucoma diagnosis]. Arch Soc Esp Oftalmol 2008; 83:349-356. [PMID: 18521767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the diagnostic usefulness of four linear discriminant functions for Heidelberg retina tomograph (HRT) II obtained in our population. METHODS 450 eyes of 450 patients were studied. Eyes were classified as those of healthy subjects (101), those with ocular hypertension (126), those suspected to have glaucoma (121) or those with glaucoma (103). Intraocular pressure, optic nerve head appearance in stereophotographs, and standard automated perimetry results were assessed. ANOVAs among the groups were calculated for all global parameters and the 4 formulas. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted for the 4 multivariate functions designed in our hospital and the areas under the ROC curves were compared. Sensitivity at 80% and 90% fixed specificities were also calculated. RESULTS All functions discriminated well between healthy and glaucoma suspects, and between healthy and glaucomatous eyes. At 90% fixed specificity, sensitivities ranged from 54% to 60% in differentiating between healthy and glaucoma suspects, and from 65% to 68% in discriminating between control and glaucoma subjects. No differences were found between the areas under the ROC curves of these functions. CONCLUSIONS The evaluated linear discriminant functions increased the diagnostic ability of HRT II isolated parameters in detecting glaucoma. These functions performed better than the HRT-provided discriminant functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Borque
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de Salud, Zaragoza, España.
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German-Retana S, Candresse T, Alias E, Delbos RP, Le Gall O. Effects of green fluorescent protein or beta-glucuronidase tagging on the accumulation and pathogenicity of a resistance-breaking Lettuce mosaic virus isolate in susceptible and resistant lettuce cultivars. Mol Plant Microbe Interact 2000; 13:316-24. [PMID: 10707357 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi.2000.13.3.316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The RNA genome of a resistance-breaking isolate of Lettuce mosaic virus (LMV-E) was engineered to express the jellyfish green fluorescent protein (GFP) or beta-glucuronidase (GUS) fused to the helper-component proteinase (HC-Pro) to study LMV invasion and spread in susceptible and resistant lettuce cultivars. Virus accumulation and movement were monitored by either histochemical GUS assays or detection of GFP fluorescence under UV light. The GFP- and GUS-tagged viruses spread systemically in the susceptible lettuce cultivars Trocadero and Vanguard, where they induced attenuated symptoms, compared with the wild-type virus. Accumulation of the GFP-tagged virus was reduced but less affected than in the case of the GUS-tagged virus. Systemic movement of both recombinant viruses was very severely affected in Vanguard 75, a lettuce cultivar nearly isogenic to Vanguard but carrying the resistance gene mo1(2). Accumulation of the recombinant viruses in systemically infected leaves was either undetectable (GUS-tag) or erratic, strongly delayed, and inhibited by as much as 90% (GFP-tag). As a consequence, and contrary to the parental virus, the recombinant viruses were not able to overcome the protection afforded by the mo1(2) gene. Taken together, these results indicate that GUS or GFP tagging of the HC-Pro of LMV has significant negative effects on the biology of the virus, abolishing its resistance-breaking properties and reducing its pathogenicity in susceptible cultivars.
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