scholarly journals Current Evidence on the Ocular Surface Microbiota and Related Diseases

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (7) ◽  
pp. 1033 ◽  
Author(s):  
Francesco Petrillo ◽  
Danilo Pignataro ◽  
Maria Annunziata Lavano ◽  
Biagio Santella ◽  
Veronica Folliero ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Ocular Surface ◽  
Pathogenic Bacteria ◽  
Potential Role ◽  
The Body ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Oral Microbiota ◽  
Culture Techniques ◽  
Microbiome Composition ◽  
Ophthalmic Diseases ◽  
Pro Inflammatory Cytokines

The ocular surface microbiota refers to the resident non-pathogenic microorganisms that colonize conjunctiva and cornea. Several studies have shown that ocular surface epithelial cells can respond selectively to specific components of ocular pathogenic bacteria by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and, in contrast, they do not respond to non-pathogenic bacteria, thus supporting the colonization by a real microbiota. However, the analysis of the ocular microbiome composition is essential for understanding the pathophysiology of various ophthalmic diseases. In this scenario, the first studies, which used microbiological culture techniques, reported a less diverse profile of the ocular microbiota compared with that recently discovered using new molecular-based methods. Indeed, until a few years ago, the microbiota of the ocular surface appeared to be dominated by Gram-positive and a few Gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungal strains. In contrast, genomics has nowadays detected a remarkable diversity in the ocular surface microorganisms. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that the microbiota of other areas of the body, such as the gut and oral microbiota, are involved in the pathophysiology of several ophthalmic diseases. The aim of the present study is to highlight the current evidence on the ocular surface microbiota to better understand it and to investigate its potential role in the development of ophthalmic diseases.

scholarly journals Cytokine storm and COVID-19: a chronicle of pro-inflammatory cytokines

Open Biology ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (9) ◽  
pp. 200160 ◽  
Author(s):  
Antonella Fara ◽  
Zan Mitrev ◽  
Rodney Alexander Rosalia ◽  
Bakri M. Assas
Keyword(s):  
Potential Role ◽  
Distress Syndrome ◽  
The Body ◽  
Type I ◽  
Cytokine Storm ◽  
Disease Prognosis ◽  
Cytokine Levels ◽  
Cellular Components ◽  
Necrosis Factor ◽  
Pro Inflammatory Cytokines

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has swept the world, unlike any other pandemic in the last 50 years. Our understanding of the disease has evolved rapidly since the outbreak; disease prognosis is influenced mainly by multi-organ involvement. Acute respiratory distress syndrome, heart failure, renal failure, liver damage, shock and multi-organ failure are strongly associated with morbidity and mortality. The COVID-19 disease pathology is plausibly linked to the hyperinflammatory response of the body characterized by pathological cytokine levels. The term ‘cytokine storm syndrome’ is perhaps one of the critical hallmarks of COVID-19 disease severity. In this review, we highlight prominent cytokine families and their potential role in COVID-19, the type I and II interferons, tumour necrosis factor and members of the Interleukin family. We address various changes in cellular components of the immune response corroborating with changes in cytokine levels while discussing cytokine sources and biological functions. Finally, we discuss in brief potential therapies attempting to modulate the cytokine storm.

scholarly journals Current Evidence for Corynebacterium on the Ocular Surface

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 254
Author(s):  
Takanori Aoki ◽  
Koji Kitazawa ◽  
Hideto Deguchi ◽  
Chie Sotozono
Keyword(s):  
Ocular Surface ◽  
Pathogenic Bacteria ◽  
Resistance Mechanisms ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Topical Steroids ◽  
Third Generation ◽  
Contact Lens Wear ◽  
Ocular Infections ◽  
Corynebacterium Species ◽  
Patients With Diabetes

Corynebacterium species are commonly found in the conjunctiva of healthy adults and are recognized as non-pathogenic bacteria. In recent years, however, Corynebacterium species have been reported to be potentially pathogenic in various tissues. We investigated Corynebacterium species on the ocular surface and reviewed various species of Corynebacterium in terms of their antimicrobial susceptibility and the underlying molecular resistance mechanisms. We identified a risk for Corynebacterium-related ocular infections in patients with poor immunity, such as patients with diabetes or long-term users of topical steroids, and in those with corneal epithelial damage due to trauma, contact lens wear, lagophthalmos, and trichiasis. The predominant strain in the conjunctiva was C. macginleyi, and the species associated with keratitis and conjunctivitis were C. macginleyi, C. propinquum, C. mastitidis, C. pseudodiphtheriticum, C. accolens, C. striatum, C. xerosis, and C. bovis. Overall, Corynebacterium species present on the ocular surface were resistant to quinolones, whereas those in the nasal cavity were more susceptible. The prevalence of fluoroquinolone-resistant Corynebacterium has not changed in the past 10 years; however, Corynebacterium species remain susceptible to third-generation cephems. In conclusion, the use of third-generation cephems should be a reasonable and pragmatic approach for treatment of ocular infections caused by Corynebacterium species.

scholarly journals Mutual Preservation: A Review of Interactions Between Cervicovaginal Mucus and Microbiota

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stylianos Vagios ◽  
Caroline M. Mitchell
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Health ◽  
Genital Tract ◽  
Pathogenic Bacteria ◽  
Bacterial Species ◽  
Female Genital Tract ◽  
The Body ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Mucosal Surfaces ◽  
Cervicovaginal Mucus ◽  
Female Genital

At mucosal surfaces throughout the body mucus and mucins regulate interactions between epithelia and both commensal and pathogenic bacteria. Although the microbes in the female genital tract have been linked to multiple reproductive health outcomes, the role of cervicovaginal mucus in regulating genital tract microbes is largely unexplored. Mucus-microbe interactions could support the predominance of specific bacterial species and, conversely, commensal bacteria can influence mucus properties and its influence on reproductive health. Herein, we discuss the current evidence for both synergistic and antagonistic interactions between cervicovaginal mucus and the female genital tract microbiome, and how an improved understanding of these relationships could significantly improve women’s health.

The potential role of dietary advanced glycation endproducts in the development of chronic non-infectious diseases: a narrative review

2020 ◽  
Vol 33 (2) ◽  
pp. 298-311
Author(s):  
M. E. Garay-Sevilla ◽  
M. S. Beeri ◽  
M. P. de la Maza ◽  
A. Rojas ◽  
S. Salazar-Villanea ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Potential Role ◽  
Advanced Glycation Endproducts ◽  
The Body ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Western World ◽  
Diabetic Patients ◽  
Advanced Glycation ◽  
Glycation Endproducts ◽  
Mechanisms Of Formation

AbstractIncreasing clinical and experimental evidence accumulated during the past few decades supports an important role for dietary advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) in the pathogenesis of many chronic non-infectious diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, CVD and others, that are reaching epidemic proportions in the Western world. Although AGE are compounds widely recognised as generated in excess in the body in diabetic patients, the potential importance of exogenous AGE, mostly of dietary origin, has been largely ignored in the general nutrition audience. In the present review we aim to describe dietary AGE, their mechanisms of formation and absorption into the body as well as their main mechanisms of action. We will present in detail current evidence of their potential role in the development of several chronic non-infectious clinical conditions, some general suggestions on how to restrict them in the diet and evidence regarding the potential benefits of lowering their consumption.

scholarly journals The Potential Role of REG Family Proteins in Inflammatory and Inflammation-Associated Diseases of the Gastrointestinal Tract

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (13) ◽  
pp. 7196
Author(s):  
Chao Sun ◽  
Xiaoyu Wang ◽  
Yangyang Hui ◽  
Hirokazu Fukui ◽  
Bangmao Wang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Potential Role ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
The Body ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Gi Tract ◽  
Associated Diseases ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Colitic Cancer ◽  
Regulatory Effects

Regenerating gene (REG) family proteins serve as multifunctional secretory molecules with trophic, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and probably immuno-regulatory effects. Since their discovery, accumulating evidence has clarified the potential roles of the REG family in the occurrence, progression and development of a wide range of inflammatory and inflammation-associated diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. However, significant gaps still exist due to the undefined nature of certain receptors, regulatory signaling pathways and possible interactions among distinct Reg members. In this narrative review, we first describe the structural features, distribution pattern and purported regulatory mechanisms of REG family proteins. Furthermore, we summarize the established and proposed roles of REG proteins in the pathogenesis of various inflammation-associated pathologies of the GI tract and the body as a whole, focusing particularly on carcinogenesis in the ulcerative colitis—colitic cancer sequence and gastric cancer. Finally, the clinical relevance of REG products in the context of diagnosis, treatment and prognostication are also discussed in detail. The current evidence suggests a need to better understanding the versatile roles of Reg family proteins in the pathogenesis of inflammatory-associated diseases, and their broadened future usage as therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers is anticipated.

scholarly journals A Review of Topical and Systemic Vitamin Supplementation in Ocular Surface Diseases

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (6) ◽  
pp. 1998
Author(s):  
Paolo Fogagnolo ◽  
Stefano De Cilla’ ◽  
Micol Alkabes ◽  
Pierfilippo Sabella ◽  
Luca Rossetti
Keyword(s):  
Vitamin A ◽  
Ocular Surface ◽  
Inflammatory Responses ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Signs And Symptoms ◽  
The Body ◽  
Vitamin Supplementation ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Correct Function

In the homeostasis of the ocular surface, vitamins play a critical role in regulating inflammatory responses and promoting cell differentiation, development and correct function. Systemic vitamin supplementation has been available for many decades; in recent years, thanks to pharmacological advancements, topical vitamin delivery has also become available in an attempt to better treat ocular surface disease (OSD) and dry eye disease (DED). In this paper, we reviewed the current evidence on the role of vitamin supplementation in OSD and DED. We originally searched the PubMed archive, inspected the references and restricted the search to pertinent papers. The body of evidence was evaluated using the amelioration of both signs and symptoms as the outcome, when available. We found that in patients with vitamin deficiency, systemic supplementation of Vitamin A is effective in treating OSD, reducing both DED signs and symptoms. Additionally, systemic supplementation of vitamin D is useful in reducing DED symptoms and increasing tear volume. Vitamin A is also effective in reducing DED signs and symptoms when administered locally. The efficacy of supplementation with other vitamins is still not fully proven. In conclusion, the inclusion of vitamins into the treatment strategies for OSD and DED allows for better treatment customization and better outcomes in these patients.

Using serum biomarkers for identifying unstable carotid plaque: update of current evidence

2020 ◽  
Vol 26 ◽  
Author(s):  
Areti Sofogianni ◽  
Konstantinos Tziomalos ◽  
Triantafyllia Koletsa ◽  
Apostolos G. Pitoulias ◽  
Lemonia Skoura ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Risk ◽  
Great Proportion ◽  
Current Literature ◽  
Early Identification ◽  
Carotid Plaque ◽  
Potential Role ◽  
Carotid Atherosclerosis ◽  
Serum Biomarkers ◽  
Current Evidence

: Carotid atherosclerosis is responsible for a great proportion of ischemic strokes. Early identification of unstable or vulnerable carotid plaques and therefore of patients at high risk for stroke is of significant medical and socioeconomical value. We reviewed the current literature and discuss the potential role of the most important serum biomarkers in identifying patients with carotid atherosclerosis who are at high risk for atheroembolic stroke.

Rebalance the oral microbiota as efficacy tool in endocrine, metabolic, and immune disorders

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ciro Gargiulo Isacco ◽  
Andrea Ballini ◽  
Danila De Vito ◽  
Kieu Cao Diem Nguyen ◽  
Stefania Cantore ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systemic Disease ◽  
Current Treatment ◽  
Oral Bacteria ◽  
The Body ◽  
Oral Microbiota ◽  
Oral Diseases ◽  
Philosophical Approach ◽  
Treatment And Prevention ◽  
Cardio Vascular Disease ◽  
Cardio Vascular

: The current treatment and prevention of oral disorders follow a very sectoral control and procedures considering mouth and its structures as system completely independent from the rest of the body. The main therapeutic approach is carried out on just to keep the levels of oral bacteria and hygiene in an acceptable range compatible with one-way vision of oral-mouth health completely separated from a systemic microbial homeostasis (eubiosis vs dysbiosis). This can negatively impact on the diagnosis of more complex systemic disease and its progression. Dysbiosis is consequence of oral and gut microbiota unbalance with consequences, as reported in current literature, in cardio vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Likewise, there is the need to highlight and develop a novel philosophical approach in the treatments for oral diseases that will necessarily involve non-conventional approaches.

scholarly journals Effects of Triphala on Lipid and Glucose Profiles and Anthropometric Parameters: A Systematic Review

2021 ◽  
Vol 26 ◽  
pp. 2515690X2110110
Author(s):  
Wiraphol Phimarn ◽  
Bunleu Sungthong ◽  
Hiroyuki Itabe
Keyword(s):  
Body Mass Index ◽  
Body Weight ◽  
Blood Glucose ◽  
Waist Circumference ◽  
Lipid Profile ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
The Body ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Diabetic Patients ◽  
Anthropometric Parameters

Aim. The efficacy of triphala on lipid profile, blood glucose and anthropometric parameters and its safety were assessed. Methods. Databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Thai Library Integrated System (ThaiLIS) were systematically searched to review current evidence of randomized controlled trials (RCT) on triphala. RCTs investigating the safety and efficacy of triphala on lipid profile, blood glucose and anthropometric parameters were included. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed independently by 2 authors. Results. Twelve studies on a total of 749 patients were included. The triphala-treated groups showed significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride in 6 studies. Five RCTs demonstrated triphala-treated groups led to statistically significant decrease in body weight, body mass index and waist circumference of obese patients. Moreover, triphala significantly decreased fasting blood glucose level in diabetic patients but not in people without diabetes. No serious adverse event associated with triphala was reported during treatment. Conclusions. This review summarized a current evidence to show triphala might improve the lipid profile, blood glucose, the body weight, body mass index and waist circumference under certain conditions. However, large well-designed RCTs are required to confirm this conclusion.

Perceived Oral Health Literacy, Behaviors, and Oral Health Care among Caregivers to the Homebound Population

2021 ◽  
pp. 108482232110084
Author(s):  
Agata Wilk ◽  
Lisa LaSpina ◽  
Linda D. Boyd ◽  
Jared Vineyard
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Oral Health ◽  
Health Literacy ◽  
Oral Care ◽  
Oral Health Care ◽  
The Body ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Oral Health Literacy ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional

This study aimed to explore the level of perceived oral health literacy (OHL) among caregivers of the homebound population in the Chicago metropolitan area and how caregivers’ OHL impacts their oral care to the homebound population. The relationships between demographic characteristics, perceived OHL levels, personal oral health behaviors, and oral health care to clients were also assessed. This cross-sectional survey research examined 69 caregivers of the homebound population employed by home health agencies. The OHL was determined by the validated Health Literacy in Dentistry Scale (HeLD-14). Independent t-tests, chi-square tests set at p < .05 significance level, and logistic regressions were used for analysis. The mean age of participants was 43. The HeLD-14 scores indicated a high perceived OHL among this group. Caregivers came from diverse groups, and the majority spoke a second language at home. About 93% performed oral self-care the recommended amount of time or more, while only 57% did it for their clients. Those who cleaned clients’ mouth twice a day had a higher OHL score ( M = 23 compared to M = 19). About 43% did not check for sores in the client’s mouth, and those who checked had a higher OHL score ( M = 25 compared to M = 19). Controlling for OHL, age was a good predictor of oral care frequency to clients. These findings provide current evidence and add to the body of knowledge on OHL among homebound individuals. The results provide insights for designing a preventive approach in oral health care to the homebound population.

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