Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International

Comparative Effects of Ustekinumab and Vedolizumab on Alopecia in Ulcerative Colitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Bedoor Turky — 2025-11-18

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder characterised by patchy hair loss and a significant psychological impact. Although traditionally attributed to Th1-mediated pathways, emerging evidence highlights roles for Th2, Th9, and IL-23 signalling. This study aims to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing ustekinumab (IL-12/23 inhibitor) and vedolizumab (α₄β₇-integrin blocker) regarding alopecia outcomes among patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Biologic agents such as ustekinumab (IL-12/23 inhibitor) and vedolizumab (α-integrin blocker) are increasingly used for ulcerative colitis (UC), but their dermatologic effects remain uncertain. This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the influence of these biologics on alopecia outcomes. A comprehensive literature search of major databases through September 2025 identified studies reporting hair loss or regrowth in patients treated with these agents. The number of samples ranged from case-report studies in one patient to systematic reviews of studies in more than 2200 patients. Data extraction included demographics, interventions, and outcomes, with pooled analyses conducted using random-effects models. Bias was evaluated using the MINORS tool.

Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing case series, cohort studies, and systematic reviews. Ustekinumab showed variable effects, ranging from substantial hair regrowth to paradoxical alopecia, particularly in pediatric patients. Vedolizumab outcomes were similarly inconsistent, with reports of both new-onset alopecia and improvement in skin manifestations. Pooled analysis indicated that 65.5% of patients achieved hair regrowth, and active therapy significantly increased the odds of attaining a SALT score ≥50 (OR = 3.05). Adverse events were mostly mild, while relapse remained common, especially with topical immunotherapy.

In conclusion, ustekinumab and vedolizumab exhibit heterogeneous effects on alopecia in UC patients, ranging from disease worsening to meaningful regrowth. While biologics may have therapeutic potential in select cases, their cutaneous effects require further clarification through large, well-designed randomised trials.

Comparative Effects of Mondia whitei and Prunus africana in Male Sexual Health: A Comprehensive Review

Nwokike Matthew O. — 2025-12-08

The increasing interest in natural remedies for male sexual health has led to the investigation of various plant species with potential aphrodisiac effects. This review examines the comparative effects of Mondia whitei (Omulondo) and Prunus africana on male sexual health. Mondia whitei is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and to enhance libido while Prunus africana is primarily known for its role in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and improving prostate health. The review analyses existing studies on the efficacy, mechanisms of action, and safety profiles of both plants, aiming to provide a comparative understanding of their potential roles in improving male sexual health. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar and other internet sources, focusing on studies published between 2000 and 2024. Findings indicate that Mondia whitei enhances testosterone levels and nitric oxide production, thereby improving libido and erectile function. The findings further suggest that while both plants show promising results, the evidence for Mondia whitei is relatively less developed compared to Prunus africana, especially regarding sexual function enhancement and its underlying mechanisms. In contrast, Prunus africana exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-androgenic effects, reducing prostate enlargement and associated urinary symptoms. Despite the promising evidence, further clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of these herbs and establish standardised dosages.

An Efficient Random Forest Model for Predicting Respiratory Toxicity of Organic Chemicals

Aubin N’GUESSAN — 2025-11-15

This study developed a random forest (RF) model based on a large and diverse dataset to classify whether organic chemicals or drugs are respiratory toxicants. Indeed, the concerns regarding drug-induced respiratory remain a major cause of drug candidate failure in clinical trials resulting in the high cost of bringing drugs to market. In addition, animal models for experimental determination of the respiratory toxicity of chemicals are very lengthy, costly and time-consuming. It is therefore urgent to develop a theoretical model based on machine learning to qualitatively identify toxicants from a large dataset of drug/chemical compounds associated with respiratory system toxicity. However, it should be noted that the use of an excessive number of descriptors has the potential to increase the risk of overfitting, thereby reducing the model's ability to generalise. It is essential to implement more robust methods, capable of capturing relevant information without burdening the model with unnecessary variables. In this study, the random forest (RF) machine learning method combined with only nine (09) descriptors was used to build an efficient binary classification model for predicting the pulmonary or respiratory toxicity of chemicals. To demonstrate its predictive reliability, the global respiratory toxicity model was assessed using 10-fold internal cross-validation alongside external test set validation. RF model achieved a prediction accuracy of 76.66% and an AUC of 0.83 for the compounds in the test set. These findings emphasize the importance of rigorous descriptor selection and streamlined models to achieve reliable predictions in real-world scenarios, and they offer valuable contributions to respiratory toxicity assessment during early-stage drug discovery and environmental safety evaluations.

Structure-Based Design and In silico Evaluation of Novel Donepezil Analogues as Potent Inhibitors of Human Acetylcholinesterase for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy

Issouf Fofana — 2025-11-21

Alzheimer's disease (AD) accounts for 60 to 70% of dementias worldwide. This condition is primarily associated with the decrease in acetylcholine (ACh) levels, due to the action of human acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The lack of a curative treatment for Alzheimer's disease underscores the urgency to develop options that are more effective. This study aims to design new analogues of donepezil optimized for the effective inhibition of human AChE. Using a physics-based computer-aided molecular design (CAMD) approach, we developed a reliable quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model utilizing the crystallographic structure of AChE (PDB code: 7E3H) along with a series of 45 molecules derived from donepezil, of which 32 were used for the training set and 13 for external validation. The QSAR model was rigorously validated with this external validation set, demonstrating a high predictive power. The established QSAR model ( ) explains 95% of the variation in experimental biological activity ( ) based on the variation in binding free energy (∆∆G_com). The variation in binding free energy in the biological environment is given by the equation: . A detailed investigation into the binding mode of inhibitors at the human AChE active site, combined with the energetic assessment of individual residue interactions, enabled the rational selection of molecular substituents necessary for the design of new, optimized analogues. Using an intuitive substitution method, a series of 59 new, more effective analogues of donepezil (DPZA) were designed, notably: DPZA46 ( ), DPZA36 ( ), DPZA20 ( ). The best-designed DPZA analogues exhibit a favorable theoretical pharmacokinetic profile. The stability of the best-designed DPZA inhibitors and their complexes formed with AChE has been confirmed through molecular dynamics simulations, thereby validating the obtained active conformations. These results suggest that the designed analogues, particularly DPZA46, are promising candidates worthy of further experimental investigation as potential anti-Alzheimer agents.

Development and Evaluation of α-Arbutin Based Periorbital Depigmentation Hydrogel Patches for Cosmetic Application

Shantaveer Irappanavar — 2025-12-02

Aim: The present study aims to formulate and evaluate α-arbutin–based hydrogel patches for periorbital depigmentation and management of under-eye dark circles.

Place and Duration of Study: HSK college of pharmacy, Bagalkote.

Methodology: Hydrogel patches were prepared using Agar/PVA (F1), Gelatine/PVA (F2), and Pectin (F3) by solvent-casting method. Formulations were evaluated for organoleptic properties, pH, weight, thickness, swelling index, folding endurance, tensile strength, drug content, FTIR compatibility, antioxidant activity, and in-vitro drug release using Franz diffusion cell.

Results: FTIR confirmed absence of drug–polymer interaction. F1 showed optimal mechanical properties (tensile strength 2.97 kg; folding endurance 321) and swelling (72.97%). Drug content ranged from 85.10 – 89.12%. F2 exhibited highest drug release (95.72% at 90 min), while F1 showed release (75.49%). Antioxidant activity (DPPH) demonstrated strong scavenging potential.

Conclusion: α-Arbutin hydrogel patches were successfully developed with safe pH, good flexibility, enhanced antioxidant activity, and controlled depigmenting agent release. F1 was identified as the most suitable formulation for cosmetic under-eye application.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Strychnos lenticellata

Surabi Sukumaran — 2025-12-03

Aims: Strychnos lenticellata belongs to the family of Loganiaceae. The study was intended to extract the phytochemicals from S. lenticellata using different solvents, the obtained exracts were subjected to determine the antibacterial and antioxidant capacity.

Study Design: Dried leaf powder of S. lenticellata was extracted with different solvent system and subjected to determine the phytochemical content, Antioxidant capability and antimicrobial activity against gram negative and gram positive bacteria.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Botany, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Nandanam, Chennai 600 035, Tamil Nadu, India, over the period of 7 months

Methodology: Total Phenolic content (TPC) and Total Flavonoid content (TFC) of different solvent (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and ethanol) leaf extract of S. lenticellata was determined. The antioxdidant capability of the extracts was examined by DDPH assay, Hydroxyl and Superoxide radical scavenging assay. The antibacterial activity was ascertained by well diffusion method against bacterial pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexneri, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans.

Results: All the three solvent extracts showed positive results for flavonoids, and phenols. However, the ethanol extract (ES) shows highest total phenol content (31.11±1.24mg GAE/g extract) and total flavonoid conten (19.11±1.80mg QE/g extract) when compared to other solvent extracts. The ES extract shows potential antibacterial activity in order to S. mutans>S. aureus>S. typhi>B. subtilis>S. flexneri>K. pneumoniae. The ES extract exhibited significant radical scavenging ability with IC₅₀ values of DPPH (87.12 µg/mL), Superoxide (76.66 µg/mL) and hydroxyl radicals (76.20 µg/mL), respectively.

Conclusion: The study concludes that phenolic compounds in the extracts are liable for the antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Correspondingly, S. lenticellata inhibits the oral pathogen S. mutans and that could be added as ingredient in herbal formulation of natural oralcare products.

Assessment of Ethylene Glycol Toxicity on Rat Liver, Spleen and Reproductive Organs

Emilia Krzyszton — 2025-12-03

Ethylene glycol (EG) is a widely used organic compound found in various consumer products. Due to its accessibility, EG ingestion has led to numerous cases of poisoning. While its effects on the central nervous, cardiopulmonary, and renal systems are well-documented, limited research has explored its impact on other organs. This study investigates the effects of EG exposure on the liver, spleen, and male reproductive organs (testis, epididymis, seminal vesicle, and prostate) in Wistar rats. Rats were administered 0.75% EG orally for 12 hours daily over a 28-day period and compared to untreated controls. Histopathological analysis revealed that prolonged low-dose EG exposure induced notable changes in several organs. Liver tissues showed dilated sinusoids, hepatocyte necrosis, and vacuolization. Testicular tissue exhibited vacuolization, sloughing of germ cells, germ cell death, and disruption of the germinal epithelium. In the prostate, blood congestion was observed. In contrast, no significant histological changes were noted in the spleen, epididymis, or seminal vesicles. These findings demonstrate that even at low concentrations, repeated EG exposure can adversely affect the liver and components of the male reproductive system. The results underscore the need for increased monitoring and regulation of EG, particularly in occupational and environmental settings where long-term, low-level exposure may occur.

Therapeutic Potential of Diospyros malabarica Methanolic Leaf Extract: Evidence of Anticancer, Antimicrobial, Antisickling, and Sedative Effects

Shadia Shamim — 2025-12-04

Diospyros malabarica, more commonly referred to as the Gaub tree, is known for its ethnomedicine applications, though there is inadequate research regarding its physical capabilities. Herein is described the full study investigating the anticancer, antimicrobial, antisickling and neuropharmacological activities of a methanol extract of D. malabarica leaves (MEDM). MEDM was prepared by cold maceration and subjected to standardised bioassays. MEDM showed considerable anticancer activity with a clear dose-dependent effect against the cervical cancer cell line HeLa, inhibiting cell growth by 49.16 (1000 µg/mL), in conjunction with unequivocal morphological evidence of apoptosis. In a disc diffusion test of antimicrobial properties, MEDM showed broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Vibrio cholerae and Klebsiella pneumoniae), as well as several fungi, and inhibition zones increased in a concentration-dependent manner. Cells were placed in 24-well plates and treated with DMSO or extract at the IC₅₀ concentration for 24 hours. The experimental data were replicated three times, and the mean and standard deviation were used to represent the results. Excel is commonly utilised for conducting statistical analyses. A unique and notable finding was the validated potent antisickling activity where MEDM (500 µg/mL) reversed sickled red blood cells by 72.49% after 120 minutes and was found to be superior to the standard drug phenylalanine at several different time points. The neuropharmacological study suggested obvious effects, and in the sleep test with thiopental sodium, 400 mg/kg of MEDM significantly reduced the time to sleep and increased time asleep. Also, in the forced swimming test, MEDM significantly increased immobility time in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting a sedative effect. The findings clearly show that Diospyros malabarica has a range of therapeutic effects. The bioactivities seen are probably due to its unique and abundant phytochemical profile characterised by flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids, which are known to induce effects such as apoptosis, disrupt microbial membranes, block haemoglobin S polymerisation and influence GABAergic neurotransmission. This work provides solid science to bolster the traditional uses of D. malabarica. These findings suggest a potential avenue for discovering future therapeutics for cancer, sickle cell disease, microbial infections, and/or neurological disorders. Future work should focus on the isolation and identification of bioactive compounds responsible for each activity in order to more accurately define the mechanisms of action, as well as other possible uses in the clinic.

Molecular Profiling of Antibiotic-resistant Bacteria Isolated from Cloacal Swab Samples of Slaughtered Chickens in Bauchi Metropolis

P. Moses — 2025-12-06

Background: Poultry, particularly chickens, are a major source of protein worldwide. However, the overuse of antibiotics in poultry farming has led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, which can pose serious public health risks. The cloacal region of chickens can harbor these resistant bacteria, which may enter the food chain during slaughter and processing. Molecular characterization of these pathogens helps in identifying resistance genes and tracking their spread.

Aim: The study aims to isolate and molecularly characterize multidrug-resistant bacteria from cloacal swab samples of slaughtered chickens in Bauchi Metropolis.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, Nigeria, in a period extended from August 2024 to March 2025.

Results: In the study, the multidrug resistance (MDR) profiles of bacterial isolates were analyzed across various antibiotic groups. Escherichia coli exhibited the highest resistance, with 51.4% of isolates resistant to beta-lactams, followed by 22.8% to fluoroquinolones. Enterobacter aerogenes showed significant resistance as well, with 35.7% to beta-lactams and 28.5% to aminoglycosides. Among all tested species, Shigella showed notable resistance, particularly to aminoglycosides (50%) and fluoroquinolones (50%). The study also revealed that 10% of bacterial isolates (including Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Klebsiella pneumoniae) were resistant to both beta-lactams and aminoglycosides, with E. coli making up 40% of this dual resistance group. Molecular analysis of MDR isolates showed that 60% of E. coli strains carried targeted MDR genes, blaSHV, blaCTX-M, while 20% of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes isolates carried aac(6')-Ia gene.

Methodology: A total of 111 bacterial isolates were collected from a previous study for molecular analysis. The antimicrobial resistance patterns of these isolates were determined using the disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton Agar, testing against beta-lactam and aminoglycoside classes of antibiotics. DNA extraction was performed using the Accu Prep Genomic DNA Extraction Kit, followed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to amplify specific resistance genes related to beta-lactam and aminoglycoside resistance. The PCR products were visualized through agarose gel electrophoresis to confirm the presence of the target resistance genes. The study aimed to identify genetic factors contributing to resistance and determine the prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains in poultry, with a focus on beta-lactam and aminoglycoside resistance.

Conclusion: This study confirms the high prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli, with significant resistance to beta-lactam and aminoglycoside antibiotics. Molecular analysis revealed that only half of the phenotypically resistant isolates carried known MDR genes, highlighting the complexity of resistance mechanisms. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted surveillance, prudent antibiotic use, and further molecular studies to better understand and combat the spread of MDR bacteria, especially in environments with heavy antibiotic exposure like poultry farms.

Phytochemical Screening and in-vitro Antibacterial Activity of 96% Ethanolic Extract of Khaya grandifoliola (Meliaceae) against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Strains of Hospital Origin

KONAN Kouadio Fernique — 2025-12-10

Objective: As part of efforts to promote medicinal plants found in the flora of Ivory Coast, this study focused on Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. (Meliaceae : Sapindales). The aim is to conduct a phytochemical study and evaluate the antibacterial activity of the bark of the Khaya grandifoliola trunk. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major nosocomial pathogen that causes serious morbidity and mortality worldwide.

Methodology: The extract from the bark of the Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. (Meliaceae : Sapindales)trunk was obtained by maceration for 24 hours in 96% absolute ethanol and subjected to phytochemical tests to detect the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, sterols, polyterpenes and saponins as secondary metabolites. Its antibacterial activity was evaluated on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains of hospital origin and a reference strain ATCC 29213.

Results: The ethanolic extract of Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. (Meliaceae : Sapindales) exhibited antibacterial activity against all Staphylococcus strains, with bacterial growth inhibition diameters ranging from 15.7±0.6 to 22.3±0.6 mm at 200mg/mL; from 15.7±0.6 to 20.3±0.6 mm at 100mg/mL and from 13.7±0.6 to 18.7±0.6 mm at 50mg/mL. The ethanolic extract of Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. (Meliaceae : Sapindales) was active on the strains tested with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 12.5 to 3.12 mg/mL. It was bactericidal on all strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusion: The results of the study revealed that the ethanolic extract of Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. (Meliaceae : Sapindales) was active at different concentrations on all strains tested, which justifies its traditional use in the treatment of certain bacterial diseases.

Extraction and Chromatographic Profiling of Ascorbic Acid from Emblica officinalis Root

Subhendu Dey — 2025-11-28

Background: Emblica officinalis (amla) is known for its vitamin C-rich fruit, but its root remains underexplored. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a vital plant antioxidant that plays essential roles in stress responses. We investigated E. officinalis root as a potential source of vitamin C, focusing on its extraction and profiling.

Methods: Amla roots were dried, powdered, and extracted by Soxhlet with 95% ethanol. The concentrated extract underwent standard phytochemical tests for reducing compounds (iodine, ferric chloride, silver nitrate, nitroprusside). Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was performed on silica gel plates using various solvent systems to resolve ascorbic acid. UV-Visible spectrophotometry (200–400 nm) compared the extract’s absorbance spectrum against pure vitamin C.

Results: All chemical assays gave positive indications of ascorbic acid in the root extract (Table 1). TLC yielded a single major spot; the optimal mobile phase (n-butanol: acetic acid: water, 4:1:5) produced R_f ≈0.48, matching literature values for ascorbate. Other solvent systems gave R_f≈0.83 and ≈0.78 (Table 2). The UV-Vis spectrum of the extract showed a peak at ~267 nm, consistent with pure ascorbic acid (λ_max≈258–265 nm).

Conclusion: These findings confirm that E. officinalis roots contain vitamin C. The established extraction and chromatographic protocol provides a basis for qualitative identification and future quantification of this antioxidant. Ascorbate in roots could contribute to the plant’s oxidative stress defence and overall physiology. This work lays the groundwork for utilizingAmla root in antioxidant profiling and plant defence studies.

Risk Assessment, Environmental and Health Hazards of Hexane (HEX) and Ethyl Acetate (EtOAc): A Review

Renato Augusto Pereira Damásio — 2025-11-22

Background: Manufactured chemicals are the second important classes as the natural chemicals mentioned above and the American Chemistry Council (ACC) projects global chemical production to rise by 3.4 % in 2024 and 3.5 % in 2025, after increasing just 0.3 % in 2023. Exist a variety of process in the industries that use a wide range of different chemicals accordingly their classes considering structure, polarity solubility for specific targeting. The common organic solvents are generally classified as an aliphatic hydrocarbon, aromatic hydrocarbon, cyclic hydrocarbon, halogenated hydrocarbon, amines, ketones, esters, ether, aldehyde, alcohols among others. Objective: This short-critical review will discuss throughout the literature background risk assessment, environmental and health hazard of two organic solvents as known Hexane (HEX) and Ethyl Acetate (EtoAc).

Methods: The most significative databases regarding risk assessment, environmental, and health hazard was consulted and evaluated as American Chemistry Council (ACC); National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information in the NIH (National Library of Medicine); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); European Chemicals Agency (ECHA-OECD); World Health Organization (WHO) and Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (AU).

Conclusions and Future Outlook: In recent decades, various efforts have been made to replace toxic VOCs in chemical processes, according to the principles of Green Chemistry and Green Extraction One of the. However even for EtoAc still exist and susbtantial lack of background do be evaluated and properly described. Additionally the lack of accurated data, the number of unclear regulations and non-standarized protocols to proof risk assessment, environmental and health hazard of VOCs as HEX and EtoAc and many other chemicals are still a great challenge to be harmonized.

A Metered-dose Inhalers in the Modern Era: Technologies, Challenges, Industrial Insights and Future Directions

Chinna Reddy Palem — 2025-11-26

Scope and Objective: Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) remain the cornerstone of inhalation therapy for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), offering a portable, efficient, and cost-effective means of delivering drugs directly to the lungs. The global MDI market is projected to grow from around US$26.22 billion in 2024 to about US$42.02 billion by 2035, representing an estimated CAGR of about 4.38%. This review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the current state of MDI technologies, encompassing conventional pressurized MDIs, breath-actuated MDIs, and non-pressurized soft mist inhalers (SMIs). The discussion focuses on their mechanisms of operation, formulation strategies, technological innovations, clinical advantages, and inherent limitations. Additionally, the review highlights key industrial insights, regulatory challenges, and future trends driving innovation in inhalation drug delivery systems, with the goal of guiding future research and development in this evolving therapeutic field.

Methodology: This review systematically compiles and analyses current scientific and industrial literature on MDIs, focusing on technological developments, formulation strategies, regulatory perspectives, and sustainability concerns. Sources from peer-reviewed journals, pharmacopeial standards, and regulatory guidance documents (FDA, EMA, and ICH) were critically evaluated to identify trends, challenges, and innovations influencing MDI design and performance. Particular emphasis was placed on device engineering, aerosol performance parameters, and the integration of quality-by-design (QbD) principles in product development and lifecycle management.

Conclusions: MDIs continue to play a vital role in the management of Asthma and COPD; however, persistent issues such as patient misuse, adherence barriers, and the environmental impact of hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants demand targeted innovation. Future progress in MDI technology requires a multidisciplinary approach combining advances in formulation science, sustainable propellant alternatives, and intuitive device design. Regulatory compliance must emphasize aerodynamic particle size distribution, emitted dose uniformity, extractable and leachable profiling, and robust in vitro–in vivo correlation (IVIVC). Harmonization with FDA and EMA guidelines through risk-based design control and QbD-driven development will be crucial in achieving safer, more effective, and environmentally responsible inhalation therapies.

The Application and Prospects of Domestic Surgical Robots in Urology

Muhammad Abbas — 2025-12-11

In recent years, robotic surgical systems have promoted the development of surgical technology due to their advantages such as high-definition surgical vision and flexible surgical arms, and precise operation. The domestic Kangduo Robot® laparoscopic surgical system is a high-precision medical device with independent national intellectual property rights and is one of the representatives of new-quality productivity. Its application in the field of urology has gradually matured. This paper elaborates on the feasibility and safety of the Kangduo endoscopic surgical robot system in urological surgery, summarizes its advantages and limitations, and further discusses its development trends, aiming to provide a reference for the application of the domestic Kangduo endoscopic surgical robot system in the field of urology. In the future, tactile feedback sensors could be integrated at the instrument end, and artificial intelligence technology could enable surgeons to receive force feedback in real time.

Phyto-Therapeutic Targeting of NF-κB Pathway in Inflammation-Linked Disorders

Atul Desai — 2025-12-13

Inflammation is a vital biological response to injury and infection, but its persistence beyond resolution stages contributes to a range of chronic diseases, including arthritis, asthma and autoimmune disorders. The nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κΒ) pathway has emerged as a central mediator in sustaining inflammatory cascades through Pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules undergo transcriptional regulation. Although conventional anti-inflammatory drugs may offer short-term relief, their long-term use is frequently limited by serious side effects and inadequate targeting of the root causes. In recent years, medicinal plants have gained attention for their potential to manage inflammation in a safer and more holistic way. This narrative review focuses on five such plants- Eclipta alba, Zingiber officinalis, Asparagus racemosus, Phyllanthus emblica and Justica adhatoda- all of which have shown notable analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs act through various mechanisms, including suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibition of oxidative stress and modulation of NF-κΒ pathway. Beyond these, the review also highlights other herbal agents known for influencing inflammatory responses through NF-κΒ inhibition. The article further discusses the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases, the biological role of NF-κB, and the limitations of existing treatment options. Together, this review emphasizes the growing relevance of plant-based therapies as effective and safer alternatives for inflammation-related disorders, especially those involving NF-κΒ dysregulation.