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Green Nanotechnology in the Development of Antioxidant-Rich Phytotherapeutics for Metabolic Syndrome
(Research Output Journal of Engineering and Scientific Research, 2025) Zikayo Amulaga R.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a multifactorial disorder characterized by obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, has emerged as a global health challenge. Conventional therapeutic approaches often come with side effects and limited long-term efficacy. Phytotherapeutics, derived from medicinal plants and rich in natural antioxidants, offer a promising alternative for managing MetS. However, issues such as poor bioavailability, instability, and low solubility limit their clinical applicability. Green nanotechnology—a sustainable approach to nanomaterial synthesis using biological resources—offers a breakthrough in enhancing the delivery and efficacy of phytochemicals. This review provides an overview of the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome and the limitations of traditional therapies. It further explores the integration of green nanotechnology in designing nanoformulations of antioxidant-rich phytotherapeutics. Special attention is given to the mechanisms, recent advancements, types of green nanoparticles, and their synergistic potential in managing oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction. The article also discusses safety, regulatory challenges, and prospects of green nano-based phytotherapeutics in combating metabolic syndrome.
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Exploring the Role of Oxidative Stress in the Pathophysiology of Metabolic Syndrome: Implications for Therapeutic Targeting
(Research Invention Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2025) Mugisha Byaruhanga P.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and pro-inflammatory states, which significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and other complications. Emerging evidence suggests that oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of MetS by exacerbating inflammation, impairing insulin signaling, and promoting cellular dysfunction. Oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses, contributes to the development and progression of metabolic abnormalities that characterize MetS. This review examines the role of oxidative stress in MetS, focusing on its impact on insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, adiposity, and inflammatory responses. Additionally, it explores potential therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating oxidative stress, including the use of antioxidants, lifestyle interventions, and pharmacological agents. Although antioxidant therapies have shown promise, challenges such as the safe and effective use of antioxidants in clinical settings, as well as the complex interactions between oxidative stress and other pathophysiological processes, remain. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the role of oxidative stress in MetS and highlights potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate its effects, offering insights into future research directions in this area.
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Exploring How Acetylcholinesterase Influences Neural Signaling Beyond Neurotransmitter Hydrolysis and Its Paradoxical Role in Neurodegeneration
(Research Invention Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2025) Nabirye Akello Kemigisha
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is traditionally known for its catalytic role in hydrolyzing acetylcholine at synaptic junctions, thereby terminating cholinergic signaling. However, emerging evidence suggests that AChE also participates in non-classical roles extending far beyond neurotransmitter clearance. These roles encompass cell adhesion, apoptosis modulation, neurite outgrowth, and participation in neuroinflammatory processes. Intriguingly, AChE displays paradoxical behavior in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, where its overexpression and aberrant splicing variants contribute to neuronal damage despite the concurrent loss of cholinergic tone. This review explores the dualistic and complex role of AChE in the central nervous system (CNS), shedding light on its signaling roles beyond catalysis, the molecular basis of its neurotoxic versus neuroprotective profiles, and its therapeutic implications in managing neurodegeneration.
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Ethnomedical Beliefs and Biomedical Interventions: Bridging the Gap in Cancer Care in Eastern Nigeria
(Research Invention Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2025) Tugonza Akiro F.
Cancer care in Eastern Nigeria is marked by a complex interaction between ethnomedical beliefs and biomedical interventions. While biomedical approaches, such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, provide advanced treatment options, traditional healing practices remain deeply embedded in the region’s cultural fabric. Many patients rely on traditional healers for both physical and spiritual care, often due to economic, cultural, and social factors. This review explores the role of ethnomedical beliefs in shaping cancer diagnosis, treatment choices, and patient adherence to biomedical therapies. It also examines the challenges of integrating traditional and biomedical systems in cancer care, with an emphasis on culturally sensitive interventions, community engagement, and collaborative models. By highlighting successful integration efforts, such as community-based training for traditional healers and faith-based outreach initiatives, the review proposes pathways for enhancing cancer care outcomes. The study underscores the need for a more inclusive, patient-centered approach that respects cultural beliefs while improving access to effective biomedical treatments.
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Effectiveness of Community Health Worker-Led Interventions versus Routine Care on Malaria Prevention in Children under Five: A Narrative Review
(Research Invention Journal f Research in Medical Sciences, 2025) Tugonza Akiro F.
Malaria continues to pose a significant threat to the health and survival of children under five, particularly in sub Saharan Africa, where healthcare access is limited. Community Health Worker (CHW)-led interventions have emerged as an effective strategy to bridge gaps in malaria prevention, offering culturally aligned, community-based care that complements routine facility-based services. This narrative review evaluated the comparative effectiveness of CHW-led interventions versus routine care in preventing malaria among children under five. The article synthesized evidence from peer-reviewed studies and program evaluations to highlight how CHWs improve access to insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), facilitate early detection of febrile illnesses, enhance caregiver education, and foster prompt treatment-seeking behavior. A narrative synthesis methodology was employed, drawing from a wide range of empirical studies and policy documents to evaluate implementation outcomes and contextual relevance. Findings indicated that CHW-led interventions result in higher ITN usage, earlier treatment initiation, and improved caregiver satisfaction compared to routine facility care. Despite these benefits, challenges persist, including variable training quality, limited supervision, logistical constraints, and sustainability issues. The review underscored the need for better integration of CHWs into national health systems, investment in supportive infrastructure, and community engagement to maximize their impact. CHW-led models offer a promising, scalable solution for reducing malaria burden in vulnerable pediatric populations.