as the understanding of cancer grows, new therapies have been proposed to improve the well-known ... more as the understanding of cancer grows, new therapies have been proposed to improve the well-known limitations of current therapies, whose efficiency relies mostly on early detection, surgery and chemotherapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been introduced as a promissory and effective therapy. This fact is due to several useful features of MSCs, such as their accessibility and easy culture and expansion in vitro, and their remarkable ability for 'homing' towards tumors, allowing MSCs to exert their anticancer effects directly into tumors. Additionally, MSCs offer the practicability of being genetically engineered to carry anticancer genes, increasing their specificity and efficacy for fighting tumors. In the present study, the antitumoral efficacy and post-implant survival of mice bearing lymphomas implanted intratumorally were determined using mouse bone marrow-derived (BM)-MScs transduced with soluble Trail (sTrail), full length TRAIL (flTRAIL), or interferon β (iFnβ), naïve BM-MScs, or combinations of these. The percentage of surviving mice was determined once all not-implanted mice succumbed. It was found that the percentage of surviving mice implanted with the combination of MScs-sTrail and MScs-iFn-β was 62.5%. Lymphoma model achieved 100% fatality in the non-treated group by day 41. On the other hand, the percentage of surviving mice implanted with MSCs-sTRAIL was 50% and with MScs-inFβ 25%. All the aforementioned differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). In conclusion, all implants exhibited tumor size reduction, growth delay, or apparent tumor clearance. MSCs proved to be effective antilymphoma agents; additionally, the combination of soluble Trail and iFn-β resulted in the most effective antitumor and life enlarging treatment, showing an additive antitumoral effect compared with individual treatments.
Because of COVID-19, many social interactions have been continued through electronic means. This ... more Because of COVID-19, many social interactions have been continued through electronic means. This has been especially true for the educational experience, where professors and students have strived to move to the virtual classroom. The data sets presented here examined how academic professionals have dealt with the stress of the move, how they have strived to become more prepared and eventually more resilient to this change. Using an online platform, we obtained data at the end of the academic period during November and December 2020. The data analyzed three major areas: teaching anxiety and preparedness, resilience, and overall stress, by applying a modified version of the adapted COVID-Stress Scales. We statistically analyzed our data looking for important correlations, to help better understand the challenges educators have met though the pandemic, and how this can assist policy-makers in managing stress and looking for ways to enhance resilience in academic professionals.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), also known as Apo-2 ligand... more Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), also known as Apo-2 ligand (Apo2L), is a member of the TNF cytokine superfamily. TRAIL has been widely studied as a novel strategy for tumor elimination, as cancer cells overexpress TRAIL death receptors, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting blood vessel formation. However, cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are the main culprits responsible for therapy resistance and cancer remission, can easily develop evasion mechanisms for TRAIL apoptosis. By further modifying their properties, they take advantage of this molecule to improve survival and angiogenesis. The molecular mechanisms that CSCs use for TRAIL resistance and angiogenesis development are not well elucidated. Recent research has shown that proteins and transcription factors from the cell cycle, survival, and invasion pathways are involved. This review summarizes the main mechanism of cell adaption by TRAIL to promote response angiogenic or pro-angiogenic interm...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021
COVID-19 vaccination programs continue in child populations. Thus, parents’ attitude towards COVI... more COVID-19 vaccination programs continue in child populations. Thus, parents’ attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination of their children is crucial for these strategies to succeed. The present study derives from the application of an online COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance & Hesitancy Questionnaire (COV-AHQ) in which we measure parent’s hesitancy towards children’s vaccination (section 4 of the COV-AHQ) and other significant factors. A logistic regression analysis with backward stepwise method was used to quantify the associations between factors and parent’s hesitancy. According to the correlation analysis, the most representative factors predicting vaccine hesitancy/acceptance were positive attitude towards vaccination, parents believing that the COVID-19 vaccine will enhance the economic situation of the country, parents actively researching information, having the willingness to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine themselves, and the possibility of their children developing adverse effects. Our f...
Chronic degenerative diseases like obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, fatty liver, have gaine... more Chronic degenerative diseases like obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, fatty liver, have gained high prevalence in the world, due to sedentarism, improper nutritional habits as well as alcohol and tobacco consumption. Studies have shown that regular consumption of breakfast leads to a wide range of benefits, especially for the liver. The liver is a key organ for metabolic homeostasis regulating and governing energy metabolism, mostly providing nutrients for reabsorption. Benefits of a nutrimental quality breakfast seem to help lower body mass index, prevent metabolic diseases, and overall improve quality of life. Unfortunately, these include either high cholesterol or high-sugar foods including cold cuts, bread, eggs, and sugary beverages. Also, much of the population’s work schedule relates to long hours and high-level of stress, therefore malnutrition, and inadequate eating schedules are common.
Mexico has become one of the most highly affected countries by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19... more Mexico has become one of the most highly affected countries by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Latin America. Therefore, efficient vaccination programs are needed to address COVID-19 pandemic. Although recent advances around the world have made it possible to develop vaccines in record time, there has been increasing fear and misinformation around the vaccines. Hence, understanding vaccine hesitancy is imperative for modeling successful vaccination strategies. In this study, we analyzed the attitude and perceptions toward COVID-19 vaccination, in a Mexican population (n = 1,512), using the proposed COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Hesitancy Questionnaire (COV-AHQ) (Cronbach's alpha > 0.8), which evaluates a mild perception of danger and contamination with respect to COVID-19, a moderate perception of xenophobia generated throughout COVID-19 quarantine, fear of adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccination, and hesitancy of parent toward vaccination of children; furth...
Pancreatic cancer leads the most common lethal tumor in America. This lethality is related to lim... more Pancreatic cancer leads the most common lethal tumor in America. This lethality is related to limited treatment options. Conventional treatments involve a non-specific use of chemotherapeutical agents like 5-FU, capecitabine, gemcitabine, cisplatine, oxaliplatine, or irinotecan, that produce several side effects. This review we focus on the use of targeted nanoparticles as an alternative to the standard treatment for the pancreatic cancer. The principal objective of the use of nanoparticles is the reduction in side effects that conventional treatments produce, mostly because of their nonspecificity. Currently, several molecular markets of pancreatic cancer cells have been studied to target nanoparticles and improve the actual treatment. Therefore, properly functionalizated nanoparticles with specific aptamers or antibodies can be used to recognize pancreatic cancer cells and once cancer is recognized, these nanoparticles can attack the tumor by drug delivery, hyperthermia, or gene t...
To mitigate the COVID-19 infection, many world governments endorsed the cessation of non-essentia... more To mitigate the COVID-19 infection, many world governments endorsed the cessation of non-essential activities, such as the school attendance. Thereby, forcing the evolution of the teaching model to the virtual classroom. In the present work we show the application of a modified version of the adapted COVID-19 stress scales (ACSS) which also included teaching anxiety and preparedness, and resilience for academic professionals in Mexico, during the unprecedented transformation of the education system undergone in the COVID-19 quarantine. Most of the studied variables: gender, age, academic degree, household occupants, having a disease, teaching level, teaching mode, work hours, resilience, teaching anxiety and preparedness, and fear of being an asymptomatic patient (FOBAP), showed significant statistical correlation between each other (p<0.050) and to the 6 areas of the ACSS (danger, contamination, social economical, xenophobia, traumatic stress and compulsive checking). Our result...
Metastasis is the process of dissemination of a tumor, whereby cells from the primary site dislod... more Metastasis is the process of dissemination of a tumor, whereby cells from the primary site dislodge and find their way to other tissues where secondary tumors establish. Metastasis is the primary cause of death related to cancer. This process warrants changes in original tumoral cells and their microenvironment to establish a metastatic niche. Traditionally, cancer therapy has focused on metastasis prevention by systematic treatments or direct surgical re-sectioning. However, metastasis can still occur. More recently, new therapies direct their attention to targeting cancer stem cells. As they propose, these cells could be the orchestrators of the metastatic niche. In this review, we describe conventional and novel developments in cancer therapeutics for liver and lung metastasis. We further discuss the resistance mechanisms of targeted therapy, the advantages, and disadvantages of diverse treatment approaches, and future novel strategies to enhance cancer prognosis.
Stress and anxiety have shown to be indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore managing... more Stress and anxiety have shown to be indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore managing stress becomes essential. One of the most affected populations by the pandemic are healthcare professionals. Thus, it is paramount to understand and categorize their perceived levels of stress, as it can be a detonating factor leading to mental illness. In our study, we used a machine learning prediction model to help measure perceived stress; a C5.0 decision tree algorithm was used to analyze and classify datasets obtained from healthcare professionals of the northeast region of Mexico. Our analysis showed that 6 out of 102 instances were incorrectly classified. Missing two cases for mild, three for moderate and 1 for severe (accuracy of 94.1%), statistical correlation analysis was performed to ensure integrity of the method, in addition we concluded that severe stress cases can be related mostly to high levels of Xenophobia and Compulsive stress.
The world is currently, subjected to the worst health crisis documented in modern history; an epi... more The world is currently, subjected to the worst health crisis documented in modern history; an epidemic led by the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). At the epicenter of this crisis, healthcare professionals continue working to safeguard our well-being. To the regular high levels of stress, COVID new heights even more to healthcare professionals so depending on the area, specialty, and type of work. Here we investigated what are the tendencies, or areas most affected. Through an adaptation of the original COVID-stress scale, we developed a remote, fast test designed for healthcare professionals of the Northeastern part of Mexico, an important part of the country with economic and cultural ties to the US. Our results showed 4 key correlations as highly dependent: Work area – Xenophobia (p < 0.045), Work with COVID patients - Traumatic stress (p < 0.001) and Total number of COVID patients per day – Traumatic stress (p < 0.027), and Total number of COVID patients - Comp...
Global health and medical practice seek to merge alternative medicine with evidence-based medicin... more Global health and medical practice seek to merge alternative medicine with evidence-based medicine for a better understanding of the metabolic process and its effects in the human body. An example is the use of complementary medicine like phytotherapy. Azadirachta indica (Neem), a tree originally from India and Myanmar, called by many "The village pharmacy" or "Divine tree" because of its many health properties. In recent times, Neem-derived extracts have been shown to work from anywhere from insect repellent, to supplements to lower inflammation, diabetic control, and even to combat cancer. Herein, we state the health benefits found in diverse compounds and extracts derived from Neem, highlighting the mechanisms and pathways in which Neem compounds produce their effects, while warning that the improper and unstandardized conditions to produce extracts can lead to health issues, particularly certain compounds might have damaging effects on the liver and kidneys.
Purpose-The objective of this study was to bioengineer 3D patches from cardiac myocytes that have... more Purpose-The objective of this study was to bioengineer 3D patches from cardiac myocytes that have been reprogrammed from human adipogenic mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs). Methods-Human adipogenic mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) were reprogrammed to form cardiac myocytes using transcription factors ETS2 and MESP1. Reprogrammed cardiac myocytes were cultured in a fibrin gel to bioengineer 3D patch patches. The effect of initial plating density (1-25 million cells per patch), time (28-day culture period) and treatment with 1 lM isoproterenol and 1 lM epinephrine were evaluated. Results-3D patches were fabricated using cardiac myocytes that have been reprogrammed from hADMSCs. Based on optimization studies, it was determined that 10 million cells were needed to bioengineer a single patch, that measured 2 9 2 cm 2. Furthermore, 3D patches fabricated 10 million cells were stable in culture for up to 28 days. Treatment of 3D patches with 1 lM isoproterenol and 1 lM epinephrine resulted in an increase in the electrical properties, as measured by electrical impulse amplitude and frequency. An increase in the expression of mTOR, KCNV1, GJA5, KCNJ16, CTNNT2, KCNV2, MYO3, FOXO1 and KCND2 was noted in response to treatment of 3D patches with isoproterenol and epinephrine. Conclusion-Based on the results of this study, there is evidence to support the successful fabrication of a highly functional 3D patches with measurable electrical activity using cardiac myocytes reprogrammed from hADMSCs. 3D patches fabricated using optimal conductions described in this study can be used to improve the functional properties of failing hearts. Predominantly, in case of the infarcted hearts with partial loss of electrical activity, the electrical properties of the 3D patches may restore the electrical activity of the heart.
Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 2020
Rationale Clinical trials using human adipogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (hAdMSC) for the treatme... more Rationale Clinical trials using human adipogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (hAdMSC) for the treatment of cardiac diseases have shown improvement in cardiac function and were proven safe. However, hAdMSC do not convert efficiently into cardiomyocytes (CMs) or vasculature. Thus, reprogramming hAdMSC into myocyte progenitors may fare better in future investigations. Objective To reprogram hAdMSC into electrically conductive cardiac progenitor cells, we pioneered a 3-step reprogramming strategy that uses proven MESP1/ETS2 transcription factors, -adrenergic and hypoxic signaling induced in 3D cardio-spheres. Methods and Results In stage1, ETS2 and MESP1 activated Nkx2.5, Tbx5, Mef2C, dHAND and GATA4 during the conversion of hAdMSC into cardiac progenitor cells. Next, in stage 2, 2AR activation repositioned cardiac progenitors into de novo immature conductive cardiac cells, along with the appearance of RYR2, CAV2.1, CAV3.1, Nav1.5, SERCA2 and CX45 gene transcripts and displayed action potentials. In stage 3, electrical conduction was fostered by 3D cardio-spheres formed in a Synthecon®, Inc. rotating bioreactor induced the appearance of hypoxic genes: HIF1, PCG1 and NOS2 which coincided with the robust activation of adult contractile genes including MLC2v, TNNT2 and TNNI3, ion channel genes and the appearance of hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (HCN1-4). Conduction velocities doubled to ~200mm/s after hypoxia, and doubled yet again after dissociation of the 3D cell clusters to ~400mm/s. By comparison normal conduction velocities within working ventricular myocytes in the whole heart ranges from 0.5-1m/s. Epinephrine stimulation of stage-3 cardiac cells in patches resulted in an increase in amplitude of the electrical wave, indicative of conductive cardiac cells.
Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, 2019
We used a screening strategy to test for reprogramming factors for the conversion of human cardia... more We used a screening strategy to test for reprogramming factors for the conversion of human cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) into Pacemaker-like cells. Human transcription factors SHOX2, TBX3, TBX5, TBX18, and the channel protein HCN2, were transiently induced as single factors and in trio combinations into CPCs, first transduced with the connexin 30.2 (CX30.2) mCherry reporter. Following screens for reporter CX30.2 mCherry gene activation and FACS enrichment, we observed the definitive expression of many pacemaker specific genes; including, CX30.2, KCNN4, HCN4, HCN3, HCN1, and SCN3b. These findings suggest that the SHOX2, HCN2, and TBX5 (SHT5) combination of transcription factors is a much better candidate in driving the CPCs into Pacemaker-like cells than other combinations and single transcription factors. Additionally, single-cell RNA sequencing of SHT5 mCherry+ cells revealed cellular enrichment of pacemaker
We assessed the anti-fibrotic effects of methanolic black bean extract antioxidants in a carbon t... more We assessed the anti-fibrotic effects of methanolic black bean extract antioxidants in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4) liver injury model in rats. Experimentally intoxicated animals received CCl 4 for eight weeks, the reference and test groups received daily intragastric quercetin or daily intragastric black bean extract. Liver fibrosis was assessed and quantified using morphometric analysis. Expression of fibrosis related genes was measured by real time RT-PCR. Qualitative and quantitative histological analysis showed that administration of 70 mg/kg b.w. of black bean extract reduced hepatic fibrosis index by 18% compared to positive controls (P 0.006), as a result of a decrease in type I (44.3% less, P 0.03) and type IV (68.9% less, P 0.049) collagen gene expression compared to CCl 4-injured and Quercetin treated rats. In conclusion, we provide evidence that this methanol black bean extract ameliorates liver fibrosis and types I and IV collagen gene expression, in the animal model used. Practical applications: The compounds contained in this black bean extract exhibited strong antifibrotic effects in the CCl 4 chronic liver injury model used; considering that this compounds are contained in a leguminous that has been used in human diet for a long time, their toxic potential should be very low, and this characteristic should favor their potential use in some other chronic or degenerative states that include an increase in inflammation and oxidative burst in their pathogenesis. Another possible application of this kind of extract could be its use as an antimicrobial or even antiparasitic therapeutic agent, although it is purely speculative.
In this review, we summarize the latest research pertaining to MicroRNAs (miRs) related to cardio... more In this review, we summarize the latest research pertaining to MicroRNAs (miRs) related to cardiovascular diseases. In today’s molecular age, the key clinical aspects of diagnosing and treating these type of diseases are crucial, and miRs play an important role. Therefore, we have made a thorough analysis discussing the most important candidate protagonists of many pathways relating to such conditions as atherosclerosis, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and congenital heart disorders. We approach miRs initially from the fundamental molecular aspects and look at their role in developmental pathways, as well as regulatory mechanisms dysregulated under specific cardiovascular conditions. By doing so, we can better understand their functional roles. Next, we look at therapeutic aspects, including delivery and inhibition techniques. We conclude that a personal approach for treatment is paramount, and so understanding miRs is strategic for cardiovascular health.
as the understanding of cancer grows, new therapies have been proposed to improve the well-known ... more as the understanding of cancer grows, new therapies have been proposed to improve the well-known limitations of current therapies, whose efficiency relies mostly on early detection, surgery and chemotherapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been introduced as a promissory and effective therapy. This fact is due to several useful features of MSCs, such as their accessibility and easy culture and expansion in vitro, and their remarkable ability for 'homing' towards tumors, allowing MSCs to exert their anticancer effects directly into tumors. Additionally, MSCs offer the practicability of being genetically engineered to carry anticancer genes, increasing their specificity and efficacy for fighting tumors. In the present study, the antitumoral efficacy and post-implant survival of mice bearing lymphomas implanted intratumorally were determined using mouse bone marrow-derived (BM)-MScs transduced with soluble Trail (sTrail), full length TRAIL (flTRAIL), or interferon β (iFnβ), naïve BM-MScs, or combinations of these. The percentage of surviving mice was determined once all not-implanted mice succumbed. It was found that the percentage of surviving mice implanted with the combination of MScs-sTrail and MScs-iFn-β was 62.5%. Lymphoma model achieved 100% fatality in the non-treated group by day 41. On the other hand, the percentage of surviving mice implanted with MSCs-sTRAIL was 50% and with MScs-inFβ 25%. All the aforementioned differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). In conclusion, all implants exhibited tumor size reduction, growth delay, or apparent tumor clearance. MSCs proved to be effective antilymphoma agents; additionally, the combination of soluble Trail and iFn-β resulted in the most effective antitumor and life enlarging treatment, showing an additive antitumoral effect compared with individual treatments.
Because of COVID-19, many social interactions have been continued through electronic means. This ... more Because of COVID-19, many social interactions have been continued through electronic means. This has been especially true for the educational experience, where professors and students have strived to move to the virtual classroom. The data sets presented here examined how academic professionals have dealt with the stress of the move, how they have strived to become more prepared and eventually more resilient to this change. Using an online platform, we obtained data at the end of the academic period during November and December 2020. The data analyzed three major areas: teaching anxiety and preparedness, resilience, and overall stress, by applying a modified version of the adapted COVID-Stress Scales. We statistically analyzed our data looking for important correlations, to help better understand the challenges educators have met though the pandemic, and how this can assist policy-makers in managing stress and looking for ways to enhance resilience in academic professionals.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), also known as Apo-2 ligand... more Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), also known as Apo-2 ligand (Apo2L), is a member of the TNF cytokine superfamily. TRAIL has been widely studied as a novel strategy for tumor elimination, as cancer cells overexpress TRAIL death receptors, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting blood vessel formation. However, cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are the main culprits responsible for therapy resistance and cancer remission, can easily develop evasion mechanisms for TRAIL apoptosis. By further modifying their properties, they take advantage of this molecule to improve survival and angiogenesis. The molecular mechanisms that CSCs use for TRAIL resistance and angiogenesis development are not well elucidated. Recent research has shown that proteins and transcription factors from the cell cycle, survival, and invasion pathways are involved. This review summarizes the main mechanism of cell adaption by TRAIL to promote response angiogenic or pro-angiogenic interm...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021
COVID-19 vaccination programs continue in child populations. Thus, parents’ attitude towards COVI... more COVID-19 vaccination programs continue in child populations. Thus, parents’ attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination of their children is crucial for these strategies to succeed. The present study derives from the application of an online COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance & Hesitancy Questionnaire (COV-AHQ) in which we measure parent’s hesitancy towards children’s vaccination (section 4 of the COV-AHQ) and other significant factors. A logistic regression analysis with backward stepwise method was used to quantify the associations between factors and parent’s hesitancy. According to the correlation analysis, the most representative factors predicting vaccine hesitancy/acceptance were positive attitude towards vaccination, parents believing that the COVID-19 vaccine will enhance the economic situation of the country, parents actively researching information, having the willingness to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine themselves, and the possibility of their children developing adverse effects. Our f...
Chronic degenerative diseases like obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, fatty liver, have gaine... more Chronic degenerative diseases like obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, fatty liver, have gained high prevalence in the world, due to sedentarism, improper nutritional habits as well as alcohol and tobacco consumption. Studies have shown that regular consumption of breakfast leads to a wide range of benefits, especially for the liver. The liver is a key organ for metabolic homeostasis regulating and governing energy metabolism, mostly providing nutrients for reabsorption. Benefits of a nutrimental quality breakfast seem to help lower body mass index, prevent metabolic diseases, and overall improve quality of life. Unfortunately, these include either high cholesterol or high-sugar foods including cold cuts, bread, eggs, and sugary beverages. Also, much of the population’s work schedule relates to long hours and high-level of stress, therefore malnutrition, and inadequate eating schedules are common.
Mexico has become one of the most highly affected countries by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19... more Mexico has become one of the most highly affected countries by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Latin America. Therefore, efficient vaccination programs are needed to address COVID-19 pandemic. Although recent advances around the world have made it possible to develop vaccines in record time, there has been increasing fear and misinformation around the vaccines. Hence, understanding vaccine hesitancy is imperative for modeling successful vaccination strategies. In this study, we analyzed the attitude and perceptions toward COVID-19 vaccination, in a Mexican population (n = 1,512), using the proposed COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Hesitancy Questionnaire (COV-AHQ) (Cronbach's alpha > 0.8), which evaluates a mild perception of danger and contamination with respect to COVID-19, a moderate perception of xenophobia generated throughout COVID-19 quarantine, fear of adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccination, and hesitancy of parent toward vaccination of children; furth...
Pancreatic cancer leads the most common lethal tumor in America. This lethality is related to lim... more Pancreatic cancer leads the most common lethal tumor in America. This lethality is related to limited treatment options. Conventional treatments involve a non-specific use of chemotherapeutical agents like 5-FU, capecitabine, gemcitabine, cisplatine, oxaliplatine, or irinotecan, that produce several side effects. This review we focus on the use of targeted nanoparticles as an alternative to the standard treatment for the pancreatic cancer. The principal objective of the use of nanoparticles is the reduction in side effects that conventional treatments produce, mostly because of their nonspecificity. Currently, several molecular markets of pancreatic cancer cells have been studied to target nanoparticles and improve the actual treatment. Therefore, properly functionalizated nanoparticles with specific aptamers or antibodies can be used to recognize pancreatic cancer cells and once cancer is recognized, these nanoparticles can attack the tumor by drug delivery, hyperthermia, or gene t...
To mitigate the COVID-19 infection, many world governments endorsed the cessation of non-essentia... more To mitigate the COVID-19 infection, many world governments endorsed the cessation of non-essential activities, such as the school attendance. Thereby, forcing the evolution of the teaching model to the virtual classroom. In the present work we show the application of a modified version of the adapted COVID-19 stress scales (ACSS) which also included teaching anxiety and preparedness, and resilience for academic professionals in Mexico, during the unprecedented transformation of the education system undergone in the COVID-19 quarantine. Most of the studied variables: gender, age, academic degree, household occupants, having a disease, teaching level, teaching mode, work hours, resilience, teaching anxiety and preparedness, and fear of being an asymptomatic patient (FOBAP), showed significant statistical correlation between each other (p<0.050) and to the 6 areas of the ACSS (danger, contamination, social economical, xenophobia, traumatic stress and compulsive checking). Our result...
Metastasis is the process of dissemination of a tumor, whereby cells from the primary site dislod... more Metastasis is the process of dissemination of a tumor, whereby cells from the primary site dislodge and find their way to other tissues where secondary tumors establish. Metastasis is the primary cause of death related to cancer. This process warrants changes in original tumoral cells and their microenvironment to establish a metastatic niche. Traditionally, cancer therapy has focused on metastasis prevention by systematic treatments or direct surgical re-sectioning. However, metastasis can still occur. More recently, new therapies direct their attention to targeting cancer stem cells. As they propose, these cells could be the orchestrators of the metastatic niche. In this review, we describe conventional and novel developments in cancer therapeutics for liver and lung metastasis. We further discuss the resistance mechanisms of targeted therapy, the advantages, and disadvantages of diverse treatment approaches, and future novel strategies to enhance cancer prognosis.
Stress and anxiety have shown to be indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore managing... more Stress and anxiety have shown to be indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore managing stress becomes essential. One of the most affected populations by the pandemic are healthcare professionals. Thus, it is paramount to understand and categorize their perceived levels of stress, as it can be a detonating factor leading to mental illness. In our study, we used a machine learning prediction model to help measure perceived stress; a C5.0 decision tree algorithm was used to analyze and classify datasets obtained from healthcare professionals of the northeast region of Mexico. Our analysis showed that 6 out of 102 instances were incorrectly classified. Missing two cases for mild, three for moderate and 1 for severe (accuracy of 94.1%), statistical correlation analysis was performed to ensure integrity of the method, in addition we concluded that severe stress cases can be related mostly to high levels of Xenophobia and Compulsive stress.
The world is currently, subjected to the worst health crisis documented in modern history; an epi... more The world is currently, subjected to the worst health crisis documented in modern history; an epidemic led by the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). At the epicenter of this crisis, healthcare professionals continue working to safeguard our well-being. To the regular high levels of stress, COVID new heights even more to healthcare professionals so depending on the area, specialty, and type of work. Here we investigated what are the tendencies, or areas most affected. Through an adaptation of the original COVID-stress scale, we developed a remote, fast test designed for healthcare professionals of the Northeastern part of Mexico, an important part of the country with economic and cultural ties to the US. Our results showed 4 key correlations as highly dependent: Work area – Xenophobia (p < 0.045), Work with COVID patients - Traumatic stress (p < 0.001) and Total number of COVID patients per day – Traumatic stress (p < 0.027), and Total number of COVID patients - Comp...
Global health and medical practice seek to merge alternative medicine with evidence-based medicin... more Global health and medical practice seek to merge alternative medicine with evidence-based medicine for a better understanding of the metabolic process and its effects in the human body. An example is the use of complementary medicine like phytotherapy. Azadirachta indica (Neem), a tree originally from India and Myanmar, called by many "The village pharmacy" or "Divine tree" because of its many health properties. In recent times, Neem-derived extracts have been shown to work from anywhere from insect repellent, to supplements to lower inflammation, diabetic control, and even to combat cancer. Herein, we state the health benefits found in diverse compounds and extracts derived from Neem, highlighting the mechanisms and pathways in which Neem compounds produce their effects, while warning that the improper and unstandardized conditions to produce extracts can lead to health issues, particularly certain compounds might have damaging effects on the liver and kidneys.
Purpose-The objective of this study was to bioengineer 3D patches from cardiac myocytes that have... more Purpose-The objective of this study was to bioengineer 3D patches from cardiac myocytes that have been reprogrammed from human adipogenic mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs). Methods-Human adipogenic mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) were reprogrammed to form cardiac myocytes using transcription factors ETS2 and MESP1. Reprogrammed cardiac myocytes were cultured in a fibrin gel to bioengineer 3D patch patches. The effect of initial plating density (1-25 million cells per patch), time (28-day culture period) and treatment with 1 lM isoproterenol and 1 lM epinephrine were evaluated. Results-3D patches were fabricated using cardiac myocytes that have been reprogrammed from hADMSCs. Based on optimization studies, it was determined that 10 million cells were needed to bioengineer a single patch, that measured 2 9 2 cm 2. Furthermore, 3D patches fabricated 10 million cells were stable in culture for up to 28 days. Treatment of 3D patches with 1 lM isoproterenol and 1 lM epinephrine resulted in an increase in the electrical properties, as measured by electrical impulse amplitude and frequency. An increase in the expression of mTOR, KCNV1, GJA5, KCNJ16, CTNNT2, KCNV2, MYO3, FOXO1 and KCND2 was noted in response to treatment of 3D patches with isoproterenol and epinephrine. Conclusion-Based on the results of this study, there is evidence to support the successful fabrication of a highly functional 3D patches with measurable electrical activity using cardiac myocytes reprogrammed from hADMSCs. 3D patches fabricated using optimal conductions described in this study can be used to improve the functional properties of failing hearts. Predominantly, in case of the infarcted hearts with partial loss of electrical activity, the electrical properties of the 3D patches may restore the electrical activity of the heart.
Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 2020
Rationale Clinical trials using human adipogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (hAdMSC) for the treatme... more Rationale Clinical trials using human adipogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (hAdMSC) for the treatment of cardiac diseases have shown improvement in cardiac function and were proven safe. However, hAdMSC do not convert efficiently into cardiomyocytes (CMs) or vasculature. Thus, reprogramming hAdMSC into myocyte progenitors may fare better in future investigations. Objective To reprogram hAdMSC into electrically conductive cardiac progenitor cells, we pioneered a 3-step reprogramming strategy that uses proven MESP1/ETS2 transcription factors, -adrenergic and hypoxic signaling induced in 3D cardio-spheres. Methods and Results In stage1, ETS2 and MESP1 activated Nkx2.5, Tbx5, Mef2C, dHAND and GATA4 during the conversion of hAdMSC into cardiac progenitor cells. Next, in stage 2, 2AR activation repositioned cardiac progenitors into de novo immature conductive cardiac cells, along with the appearance of RYR2, CAV2.1, CAV3.1, Nav1.5, SERCA2 and CX45 gene transcripts and displayed action potentials. In stage 3, electrical conduction was fostered by 3D cardio-spheres formed in a Synthecon®, Inc. rotating bioreactor induced the appearance of hypoxic genes: HIF1, PCG1 and NOS2 which coincided with the robust activation of adult contractile genes including MLC2v, TNNT2 and TNNI3, ion channel genes and the appearance of hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (HCN1-4). Conduction velocities doubled to ~200mm/s after hypoxia, and doubled yet again after dissociation of the 3D cell clusters to ~400mm/s. By comparison normal conduction velocities within working ventricular myocytes in the whole heart ranges from 0.5-1m/s. Epinephrine stimulation of stage-3 cardiac cells in patches resulted in an increase in amplitude of the electrical wave, indicative of conductive cardiac cells.
Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, 2019
We used a screening strategy to test for reprogramming factors for the conversion of human cardia... more We used a screening strategy to test for reprogramming factors for the conversion of human cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) into Pacemaker-like cells. Human transcription factors SHOX2, TBX3, TBX5, TBX18, and the channel protein HCN2, were transiently induced as single factors and in trio combinations into CPCs, first transduced with the connexin 30.2 (CX30.2) mCherry reporter. Following screens for reporter CX30.2 mCherry gene activation and FACS enrichment, we observed the definitive expression of many pacemaker specific genes; including, CX30.2, KCNN4, HCN4, HCN3, HCN1, and SCN3b. These findings suggest that the SHOX2, HCN2, and TBX5 (SHT5) combination of transcription factors is a much better candidate in driving the CPCs into Pacemaker-like cells than other combinations and single transcription factors. Additionally, single-cell RNA sequencing of SHT5 mCherry+ cells revealed cellular enrichment of pacemaker
We assessed the anti-fibrotic effects of methanolic black bean extract antioxidants in a carbon t... more We assessed the anti-fibrotic effects of methanolic black bean extract antioxidants in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4) liver injury model in rats. Experimentally intoxicated animals received CCl 4 for eight weeks, the reference and test groups received daily intragastric quercetin or daily intragastric black bean extract. Liver fibrosis was assessed and quantified using morphometric analysis. Expression of fibrosis related genes was measured by real time RT-PCR. Qualitative and quantitative histological analysis showed that administration of 70 mg/kg b.w. of black bean extract reduced hepatic fibrosis index by 18% compared to positive controls (P 0.006), as a result of a decrease in type I (44.3% less, P 0.03) and type IV (68.9% less, P 0.049) collagen gene expression compared to CCl 4-injured and Quercetin treated rats. In conclusion, we provide evidence that this methanol black bean extract ameliorates liver fibrosis and types I and IV collagen gene expression, in the animal model used. Practical applications: The compounds contained in this black bean extract exhibited strong antifibrotic effects in the CCl 4 chronic liver injury model used; considering that this compounds are contained in a leguminous that has been used in human diet for a long time, their toxic potential should be very low, and this characteristic should favor their potential use in some other chronic or degenerative states that include an increase in inflammation and oxidative burst in their pathogenesis. Another possible application of this kind of extract could be its use as an antimicrobial or even antiparasitic therapeutic agent, although it is purely speculative.
In this review, we summarize the latest research pertaining to MicroRNAs (miRs) related to cardio... more In this review, we summarize the latest research pertaining to MicroRNAs (miRs) related to cardiovascular diseases. In today’s molecular age, the key clinical aspects of diagnosing and treating these type of diseases are crucial, and miRs play an important role. Therefore, we have made a thorough analysis discussing the most important candidate protagonists of many pathways relating to such conditions as atherosclerosis, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and congenital heart disorders. We approach miRs initially from the fundamental molecular aspects and look at their role in developmental pathways, as well as regulatory mechanisms dysregulated under specific cardiovascular conditions. By doing so, we can better understand their functional roles. Next, we look at therapeutic aspects, including delivery and inhibition techniques. We conclude that a personal approach for treatment is paramount, and so understanding miRs is strategic for cardiovascular health.
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Papers by Jose Islas