Search Results (1,257)

Cytisine is a plant-derived quinolizidine alkaloid found, among other sources, in the seeds of the common laburnum (Laburnum anagyroides). It has properties that enable it to act as a partial agonist of brain nicotinic α4β2 receptors, which play a key role in the development and maintenance of nicotine addiction. Clinical studies have shown that cytisine is a more effective smoking cessation aid than nicotine replacement therapy and at least as effective as varenicline in treating tobacco cigarette addiction. It may also be an effective agent in treating addiction to electronic cigarettes. Cytisine is also significantly cheaper than other anti-nicotine medications. This is of great importance for the population of smokers in developing countries, who cannot afford anti-nicotine treatment. In recent years, the role of cytisine in the pharmacotherapy of nicotine addiction worldwide has increased significantly. This drug is becoming available in an increasing number of countries, and in 2025 the World Health Organization (WHO) added cytisine to the list of essential medicines. The need for further development of the drug poses additional challenges for scientists, including the creation of new pharmaceutical forms, optimization of dosing regimens, and expansion of indications to include the treatment of nicotine addiction supplied into the body in forms other than traditional tobacco products. This review describes the use of cytisine in the treatment of nicotine addiction, the drug’s mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety of use, and the available pharmaceutical preparations. It also presents research directions on cytisine related to the development of innovative pharmaceutical products, new dosing regimens, and new indications associated with the treatment of addiction to various nicotine-containing products. Conclusions indicate that cytisine has a difficult dosing regimen, which is why patients do not adhere to it, limiting the effectiveness of the therapy. This necessitates optimizing the dosage of existing capsules and tablets or introducing, for example, new extended-release forms of the drug containing cytisine. Full article

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a versatile class of hybrid crystalline materials that have emerged as promising candidates for a broad range of applications. γ-cyclodextrin MOFs (γ-CD-MOFs) represent an innovative subgroup of MOFs constructed from “edible” γ-CD ligands coordinated with biocompatible metal ions to form an extended porous structure. Owing to their unique characteristics such as their “green” origin, biodegradability, and biocompatibility they became a promising platform for drug delivery applications. Structurally, γ-CD-MOF possess a body-centered cubic structure with dual-mode porosity, enabling the simultaneous encapsulation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. Such structural features contribute to high loading capacity, tunable release behavior, and enhanced stability of incorporated drugs. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the structural features of γ-CD-MOF, synthesis strategies, crystals size and morphology control, activation and drying techniques, and drug encapsulation approaches. We further address computational and simulation approaches used to predict and optimize drug-framework interactions, as well as post- synthetic modifications aimed at enhancing stability and functionality. The diverse pharmaceutical applications of γ-CD-MOFs are examined, including the delivery of small molecules, macromolecules, multi-drug systems, and emerging pulmonary formulations. Additionally, we examine biocompatibility and safety considerations and current limitations related to aqueous stability, industrial-scale production, and reproducibility. Finally, this review highlights recent progress and underlines future perspectives, emphasizing innovations such as fast drug-loaded MOF formation via spray-drying, co-delivery strategies, and vaccine-oriented formulations. Together, these insights highlight the potential of γ-CD-MOFs to shape the next generation of multifunctional drug delivery systems across interdisciplinary fields. Full article

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas because it disrupts functional oxygen transport of red blood cell (RBC) by binding heme of hemoglobin with high affinity. Contrarily, endogenous CO, which is constantly generated in the process of heme degradation by heme oxygenase, functions as a gaseous mediator necessary for maintaining physiological homeostasis. This toxicological (Yin) and physiological (Yang) duality presents a distinctive problem in medical and pharmaceutical applications, prompting the central question of this review: How can strict control over CO’s exposure dynamics, magnitude, kinetics, and tissue context be achieved to enable its safe therapeutic use? Here, we integrate the Yin and Yang of CO through an innovative exposure-engineering framework, leveraging the inherent RBC characteristics to offer a novel conceptualization for therapeutic development. We highlight the role of native RBCs as a biologically grounded platform that can convert hemoglobin binding—classically viewed as the basis of CO toxicity—into a measurable and controllable buffering mechanism. Then, reconciling the Yin and Yang of CO based on RBCs enables medical and pharmaceutical modulation that is attractive for clinical situations, therapeutics and diagnostics. Finally, we discuss key translational challenges—local concentration control, patient-specific risk stratification, manufacturability and critical quality attributes, and regulatory positioning—and outline how quantifiable exposure control can enable the safe clinical development of RBC-based CO therapy. Full article

Digital transformation (DT) has become a core strategic priority for major economies, with global investments exceeding $2 trillion worldwide and $0.55 trillion in China alone in 2025. As DT reshapes the norms of international competitiveness and sustainable development, experts frequently emphasize the need for innovative cross-domain frameworks to decode the mechanisms of DT success. Even though public economists view government attention to digital talent (GADT) as a key driver of DT, there is an acute shortage of empirical models that explain how it affects firm-level DT directly or indirectly through intermediary mechanisms, e.g., talent agglomeration, absorptive capacity, and subsidies. Thus, exploring this relationship empirically holds significant theoretical and practical value. Based on the latest keyword frequency data from government policies and annual reports from 2008 to 2022 for 3952 A-share listed companies across 243 cities in 31 provinces, this study constructs an interactive two-way fixed-effects panel regression model with 35,058 valid observations. The empirical results show that GADT significantly promotes the digital transformation of enterprises (EDT), supported by enterprise talent agglomeration, absorptive capacity, and government digital talent subsidies. Notably, the effects of GADT on EDT were heterogeneous, with a significant positive impact observed in labor-intensive enterprises, peripheral cities, and enterprises in non-digital-economy pilot areas. Moreover, the effects of GADT on EDT were less pronounced among technology-intensive enterprises (e.g., automotive, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing), central cities (e.g., Chengdu, Fuzhou), and those in digital economy pilot areas (e.g., Xinjiang, Ningxia). This study aims to examine the impact mechanism of GADT on EDT, thereby providing theoretical support and practical implications for more targeted and effective digital talent policies. Full article

This review summarizes innovative co-formulation strategies for non-marketed dry powder inhalers (DPIs), enabling the simultaneous pulmonary delivery of multiple active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Key approaches include co-amorphous systems (COAMS) and co-crystals, which combine two APIs into a single particle, improving aerodynamic properties, solubility, dissolution, and patient compliance while reducing manufacturing complexity. Core–shell microparticles, produced via spray drying, allow spatial separation and controlled release of APIs, minimizing drug–drug interactions and enabling tailored pharmacokinetics. Co-spray drying of dual APIs can yield particles with superior aerosolization and stability, though examples remain limited. Nanoparticle-based systems offer enhanced lung deposition and cellular uptake but face challenges in device compatibility, scalability, and regulatory approval. Each technology presents unique advantages and limitations regarding manufacturability, dose flexibility, and clinical translation. This review also highlights advances in in vitro toxicity testing, including air–liquid interface cultures, organoids, lung-on-chip models, and precision-cut lung slices, which are increasingly important as alternatives to animal studies. The importance of using an aerosol exposure system for the testing is highlighted. Ultimately, the choice of co-formulation platform should balance scientific innovation with practical considerations of manufacturing and regulatory requirements to maximize therapeutic benefit and commercial viability for future DPI combination products. Full article

Background/Objectives: Beeswax, a complex natural secretion primarily derived from Apis mellifera and Apis cerana, has evolved from an ancient remedy into a multifunctional excipient and bioactive material in modern pharmaceutical sciences. This review evaluates its physicochemical properties, pharmaceutical applications, and emerging biomedical potential, while addressing current quality and regulatory challenges. Methods: A narrative review was conducted by analyzing literature on the chemical composition, functional properties, conventional uses, advanced drug delivery applications, pharmacological activities, and quality control of beeswax, emphasizing structural characteristics, formulation roles, and integration into innovative delivery technologies. Results: Beeswax is a lipid-based matrix composed of over 300 constituents, including wax esters, hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids, conferring thermoplasticity, biocompatibility, and structural stability. Traditionally, it functions as a stiffening agent, viscosity modifier, and emulsion stabilizer in topical formulations, forming an occlusive barrier that enhances skin hydration. In advanced systems, it serves as a solid lipid matrix in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), microspheres, and 3D-printed tablets, enabling controlled drug release and improved bioavailability of lipophilic compounds. It also exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities, while beeswax-derived policosanols show potential cardiovascular and gastroprotective benefits. However, concerns regarding paraffin adulteration and pesticide contamination highlight the need for stringent analytical and regulatory oversight. Conclusions: With rigorous quality control and sustainable sourcing, beeswax remains a versatile, eco-friendly material bridging traditional medicine and advanced pharmaceutical innovation. Full article

The traditional paradigm of pharmaceutical research is characterized by substantial inefficiency, requiring extensive timelines and billions of dollars while suffering from high clinical attrition rates. The integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a paradigm shift from empirical experimentation toward predictive, data-driven innovation. This review evaluates state-of-the-art applications of these technologies across the drug discovery and development pipeline. By analyzing multi-omics data streams, AI models can elucidate complex disease mechanisms and identify novel therapeutic targets. Deep generative architectures facilitate the algorithmic creation of novel molecular entities, enabling the design of therapeutics with complex polypharmacological profiles. Furthermore, AI is enhancing the clinical testing phase through large language models (LLMs) that improve patient enrollment and through synthetic control arms (SCAs) that provide computational alternatives to traditional placebo groups. Despite these advances, the scientific community must address inherent algorithmic biases stemming from demographic underrepresentation and mitigate the risks of data hallucinations. Ultimately, realizing the full translational potential of generative AI in precision medicine may require the widespread adoption of explainable AI (XAI) frameworks and rigorous data standards. Full article

Animal by-products (ABPs), comprising both edible and inedible components, offer significant nutritional, economic, and environmental value. However, their utilization differs markedly across global jurisdictions due to cultural preferences, regulatory frameworks, and technological capacities, which collectively shape consumption patterns and determine integration into food systems or diversion to industrial applications. While consumer reliance on offal remains high in the Global South, driven by tradition, affordability, and nutritional needs, its acceptance in the Global North is markedly lower, often limited by cultural aversion and perceived risks. Drawing from published evidence and primary survey data, this review examines regional consumption trends, industrial utilization pathways, and emerging valorization opportunities for ABPs. Globally, industrial use of ABPs is increasingly shifting toward advanced bioprocessing, integration within circular bioeconomy models, and high-value applications in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and bio-industrial sectors. An online cross-sectional survey (n = 358) conducted across Africa, North America, Europe, and Asia revealed strong regional disparities in offal consumption, with higher acceptance in parts of Africa and Asia and more selective use in Europe and North America. Respondents also indicated clear support for non-food valorization pathways, particularly animal feed, fertilizer, and energy production, alongside pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. These findings align with the literature, where industrial valorization pathways such as collagen and gelatin extraction, rendering, and bioenergy production dominate. This review synthesized the jurisdictional disparities in consumption, regulation, technological capability, and industrial applications while highlighting emerging technological opportunities for high-value valorization. Recommendations emphasize consumer education, regulatory refinement, technological innovation, and sustainable practices to enhance the economic and environmental benefits of ABP utilization within a circular bioeconomy framework. Full article

During 2022–2023, research groups from 40 nations contributed to the preclinical pharmacology of 173 structurally defined marine-derived compounds, unveiling innovative mechanisms of action. Peer-reviewed publications in the field of marine natural product pharmacology during 2022–2023 included mechanism-of-action studies with 43 compounds showing antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, antitubercular, and antiviral activity. Additional mechanism-of-action studies were reported for 74 marine compounds that exhibited antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as significant effects on both the immune and nervous systems. Finally, while 65 marine compounds revealed unique and diverse pharmacological mechanisms, further investigation will be required to determine whether they will contribute to a particular therapeutic category. Collectively, the pharmacology of 2022–2023 preclinical marine natural products demonstrated robust activity, offering both novel mechanistic insights and promising chemical scaffolds to enrich the 2026 marine pharmaceutical development pipeline (https://www.marinepharmacology.org/) which currently consists of 17 marine-derived pharmaceuticals approved for clinical use and 29 compounds in either Phase I, II or III of clinical pharmaceutical development. Full article

Background/Objectives: Drug repositioning has emerged as a promising strategy to address the innovation crisis in pharmaceutical development. While artificial intelligence enables efficient in silico hypothesis generation, clinical translation remains challenging. This study aims to evaluate the role of Real-World Evidence (RWE) in validating AI-generated drug-repositioning candidates. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted in PubMed using a predefined search strategy integrating drug repositioning, artificial intelligence, and real-world data. After multi-stage screening, 22 original research articles were included for analysis. Results: Network-based algorithms and natural language processing dominated AI-driven hypothesis generation. Validation using Electronic Health Records and insurance databases enabled retrospective assessment of drug efficacy across large populations. Successful applications were identified in neurodegenerative, metabolic, infectious, autoimmune, and psychiatric diseases. Conclusions: The integration of AI-based analytics with RWE provides a promising framework for the preliminary verification of computational predictions, potentially informing the translational pathway toward clinical practice. However, the effectiveness of this approach remains dependent on data quality and the specific therapeutic context, requiring further standardization of clinical data. Full article

Health-promoting foods are attracting growing interest as complements to pharmacological interventions, particularly when incorporated into bioactive-enriched functional foods. The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) plays a key socio-economic role in arid and semi-arid regions, and is widely recognized for its high nutritional value, functional attributes, and therapeutic potential. Date fruits and their processing by-products, particularly the seeds, are a rich source of essential nutrients, dietary fiber, and diverse phytochemicals with documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial properties. This narrative review summarizes the latest evidence from experimental, preclinical, and emerging clinical studies on the nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, and biofunctional properties of dates and their derivatives, with particular emphasis on seeds as a significant processing by-product. Recent advances in their valorization for food applications, including bakery products, dairy products, beverages, meat products, confectionery, and active packaging, are critically discussed, as are their emerging uses in the pharmaceutical and related industries. Particular attention is given to their potential to improve the nutritional quality, functional performance, sensory attributes, and shelf life of food products. Overall, date fruits and their by-products are cost-effective, natural, and sustainable ingredients for developing value-added functional foods. Their efficient valorization offers promising strategies for reducing waste, implementing circular economy principles, and meeting the increasing consumer demand for healthier products. This review highlights the need for multidisciplinary research and innovation to advance sustainable by-product utilization, improve agro-industrial waste management, and expand the range of high-value applications for date fruits and seeds, thereby contributing to global food security, economic development, and improved public health. Full article

Emerging contaminants (ECs) are a diversely mounting group of chemicals and biological compounds found in air, water, and soil, which include pharmaceuticals, personal care products, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), microplastics, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and various other industrial compounds. Unlike conventional pollutants, ECs are usually unregulated, found in very small amounts, and can persist and build up in living organisms, resulting in toxic risks for both ecosystems and human health. These contaminants originate from various anthropogenic activities and enter the environment through wastewater, stormwater, landfill leaching, and atmospheric deposition. This article documents a holistic literature review of ECs available from the last five years, covering classification, sources and pathways of contamination, and environmental behavior, while assessing their ecological, human health, and socioeconomic impacts. Advances in detection, including high-resolution mass spectrometry, non-target screening, real-time sensors, and AI-assisted monitoring, are addressed. Management strategies including advanced oxidation, membrane filtration, electrochemical treatments, and nature-based solutions are explored. It also analyses global and regional policy frameworks, highlighting regulatory gaps and the need for standardized monitoring. The study emphasizes integrated, multidisciplinary approaches combining scientific innovation, sustainable chemical design, predictive modeling, and public engagement. Synergizing technology, governance, and prevention could reduce the risks related to ECs and protect the environment. The novel contribution is an end-to-end, decision-oriented synthesis that links what monitoring can reliably infer to be feasible, integrated control strategies and sustainability outcomes, supporting risk-based prioritization, targeted pollution treatment, and prevention-focused management. Full article

Freshwater ecosystems—including rivers, lakes, wetlands, and aquifers—are critical to global biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and human well-being. However, these systems are increasingly threatened by industrial chemical pollution, stemming from the discharge of heavy metals, toxic organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, and untreated industrial waste. This pollution compromises water quality, disrupts ecological balance, and poses serious health, social, and economic risks, particularly to vulnerable communities. In response, a range of sustainable approaches have emerged to mitigate industrial pollution and restore freshwater integrity. This review critically assesses current strategies, including regulatory frameworks, green technologies, waste management innovations, and circular economy practices. Unlike previous reviews that often focus on specific pollutants or treatment technologies, this study integrates pollutant sources, environmental impacts, and sustainable mitigation approaches within a unified analytical framework. The analysis highlights that integrated strategies combining technological treatment, effective regulatory governance, and resource recovery practices are essential for reducing industrial pollution and improving long-term water sustainability. By synthesizing recent research and case studies, this review offers actionable insights into how sustainable approaches can be strengthened to address the growing challenge of industrial chemical pollution in freshwater systems. Full article

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging environmental contaminants detected not only in water, soil, and air but also in human biological samples. To date, three main exposure routes have been identified. Currently, the principal exposure routes examined in scholarly works are oral, inhalational, and dermal. This paper explores iatrogenic microplastic exposure (IME) as an underrecognized healthcare-associated source of exposure and suggests that, in certain clinical contexts involving invasive, device-mediated, or direct systemic contact, IME may be considered a possible fourth route of exposure. IME is the introduction of microplastics into the human body through medical interventions. A literature-based conceptual review was conducted focusing on the materials and additives used in pharmaceutical formulations, intravenous systems, and medical devices. Particular attention was given to polymer-based excipients and plasticizers (e.g., phthalates, PEG, triacetin) found in enteric drug coatings and infusion packaging. Findings suggest that polymer-derived particles may enter systemic circulation via intravenous fluids, implantable devices, or oral medications, especially under conditions of heat, pressure, or prolonged contact. Such materials, though deemed biocompatible, may contribute to nanoplastic load and chronic exposure risks. Vulnerable groups such as neonates, oncology patients, and ICU populations may face disproportionate exposure. This calls for re-evaluation of plastic use in medical practice, improved regulatory oversight of pharmaceutical excipients, and innovation in plastic-free biomedical materials. Integrating this route into toxicological and epidemiological frameworks will enrich our understanding of microplastic-related health risks and broaden the scope of environmental health strategies. Full article

Amid the accelerating spread of antibiotic resistance, medicinal and aromatic plants stand out as powerful natural reservoirs of bioactive compounds, offering innovative prospects for next-generation antimicrobial therapies. To explore its therapeutic potential, this study evaluated the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Matricaria pubescens from Southeastern Morocco, supported by a thorough chemical profiling of its essential oils. The oils were obtained by steam distillation and analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The results revealed two distinct chemotypes, with isochrysanthemic ethyl ester (32.7%) as the dominant compound in chemotype EO1 and α-ocimene (19.62%) as the major constituent in chemotype EO2. Antioxidant activities were assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power assays, while antimicrobial activities were evaluated against bacteria, fungi, and yeasts using both disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Both oils exhibited notable antioxidant activities. Significant antimicrobial effects were observed, with Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus being the most sensitive strains, whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited the highest resistance among all tested microorganisms, with the lowest MIC recorded for B. subtilis (0.612 mg/mL). These findings emphasize that M. pubescens could serve as a valuable source of biologically active compounds, particularly in the development of agents to combat microbial resistance, and further support its potential applications in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. Full article