Biomedical Research and Therapy

Application of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of haematological disorders

2025-01-11T16:10:37+07:00

There is a broad spectrum of hematological diseases, and their origins can be attributed to a variety of factors, including genetic abnormalities such as leukemia, sickle cell anemia (SCA), and thalassemia, as well as conditions associated with the lack of certain blood components, such as iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Testing and analyzing for hematological disorders is intensive in terms of time, effort, and labor. Additionally, there is a higher chance of human error and variance during the manual examination and analysis of the test samples, depending on the expertise, skills, and experience of the examiner. Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI), such as Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) algorithms—such as Random Forest (RF), Decision Tree (DT), and Support Vector Machine (SVM)—have demonstrated the considerable contribution they could make to more rapid and accurate disease diagnosis, detection, and classification. An increasing number of hematological diseases are being diagnosed using AI techniques, which combine tabular and image data to eliminate human error, generate more precise results, and decrease the time required for diagnosis. This review discusses several widely utilized AI disease evaluation algorithms and their applicability to hematological disorders. Additionally, we highlight key challenges such as the lack of accessible clinical data, which inhibits the implementation of AI in the field of medicine.

Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells: A novel agent for skin aging treatment

2025-01-13T14:59:19+07:00

Skin aging, influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, leads to structural and functional deterioration characterized by wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and impaired wound healing. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exos) have emerged as a promising therapeutic option, offering multifaceted benefits for skin rejuvenation. These nano-sized extracellular vesicles exhibit exceptional bioavailability, biocompatibility, and immunomodulatory properties, addressing challenges associated with conventional treatments. MSC-exos enhance collagen synthesis, modulate inflammation, and promote angiogenesis through molecular pathways such as PI3K/Akt and Notch signaling. Furthermore, their ability to deliver bioactive molecules precisely to target cells underscores their therapeutic potential in skin repair and anti-aging applications. However, challenges remain regarding large-scale production, targeting efficiency, and regulatory frameworks, warranting further research to translate these innovative therapies into clinical practice.

Therapeutic potentials of mesenchymal stem cells for cognitive impairment in stroke: Evidence from preclinical studies

2025-01-14T04:45:14+07:00

Stroke is a debilitating neurological disorder that frequently results in cognitive impairments, significantly affecting the quality of life of post-stroke patients. Current therapeutic options for poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) are limited. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising strategy for enhancing neurological recovery, including cognitive function. This review evaluates the application of MSCs in improving cognitive function in stroke patients, focusing on data from preclinical studies. Approximately 75% of strokes occur in the elderly population, and animal models have been developed to study the effects of MSCs on ischemic stroke in aged rats, as well as in the presence of comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes. The potential of MSCs to enhance cognitive function following a stroke is believed to involve multiple mechanisms, including the secretion of trophic factors, immunomodulation, differentiation into neural cell types, promotion of angiogenesis, and replacement of damaged cells. However, several challenges remain to be addressed, including a lack of clear understanding of the biological processes contributing to MSC efficacy, standardization of MSC preparation, and determination of optimal treatment protocols. Further studies on the specific mechanisms of action and clinical application of MSCs are required to confirm their therapeutic efficacy for stroke patients. The development of innovative and targeted therapies for PSCI will ultimately improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.

Evaluating the efficacy of preoperative radiotherapy in breast cancer patients non-responsive to neoadjuvant chemotherapy: A clinical trial

2025-01-11T15:14:13+07:00

Introduction: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is a prevalent treatment strategy for patients with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). Achieving a pathologic complete response (pCR) is a critical determinant of favorable outcomes. To enhance response rates, some clinicians have incorporated radiotherapy (RT) prior to surgery.

Methods: This observational cohort study aimed to investigate the initial outcomes and complication rates of preoperative radiotherapy (PRT) in breast cancer (BC) patients who did not achieve a complete response post-NACT. Between January 2017 and January 2020, 216 patients who were clinical T1-3, lymph node-positive, non-metastatic, and received NACT were analyzed. After the final dose of chemotherapy, patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Among them, 123 patients were non-complete responders. Of these, 37 patients received PRT according to the guidelines.

Results: Following PRT and surgery, 7 (18.9%) patients showed pCR in the breast and 14 (37.8%) in the axilla. HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients were significantly associated with complete response following PRT in the breast and axilla (p = 0.029). Post-surgical infection was detected in 11 (29.7%) patients, with factors such as a body mass index greater than 25 kg/m² significantly affecting surgical site infection rates (p = 0.036). The implant loss rate was 16.7% (n = 2), and there was no grade 3 or higher RT-related skin toxicity.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that PRT for non-complete responder patients improves pCR rates in the breast and axilla, allowing almost 38% of patients to have successful breast-conserving surgery, and lowering axillary lymph-node dissection rates without an increase in major complications. Clinical trials: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05274594.

Advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with rare metastases to the thyroid gland and supraclavicular lymph node: a case report

2025-01-11T04:22:23+07:00

Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a propensity for metastatic spread. Metastasis to the thyroid gland is a rare occurrence, with few reported cases in the literature. This report presents a rare case of advanced ESCC with metastases to the thyroid and supraclavicular lymph node, highlighting the importance of considering metastatic disease in patients with unusual thyroid lesions and a history of ESCC.

Case Presentation: A 68- year-old male with a history of cerebrovascular accident, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption presented with a progressively enlarging neck mass, dysphagia, and weight loss. Examinations revealed a pharyngeal mass, a suspicious thyroid lesion, and an abnormal left supraclavicular lymph node. Biopsies confirmed primary ESCC with metastases to the thyroid and left supraclavicular lymph node. Immunohistochemistry played a crucial role in confirming the esophageal origin of the metastatic lesions.

Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of thoroughly evaluating unusual thyroid lesions to rule out rare secondary malignancies, such as ESCC metastasis. A comprehensive diagnostic workup and a multidisciplinary approach are essential for accurate staging and optimal management in such cases. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for metastatic disease in patients with a history of ESCC presenting with thyroid nodules or masses. Early detection and close monitoring of suspicious thyroid lesions may improve patient outcomes, despite the generally poor prognosis associated with metastatic ESCC.