Dopamine is a biologically active compound belonging to catecholamines. It plays its roles in the human body, acting both as a circulating hormone and neurotransmitter. It acts through G-protein-coupled receptors divided into two subgroups: D1-like receptors (D1R and D5R) and D2-like receptors (D2R, D3R, D4R). Physiologically, dopamine receptors are involved in central nervous system functions: motivation or cognition, and peripheral actions such as blood pressure and immune response modulation. Increasing evidence indicates that the dopamine D1 receptor may play a significant role in developing different human neoplasms. This receptor’s value was presented in the context of regulating various signaling pathways important in tumor development, including neoplastic cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, invasiveness, or the enrichment of cancer stem cells population. Recent studies proved that its activation by selective or non-selective agonists is associated with significant tumor growth suppression, metastases prevention, and tumor microvasculature maturation. It may also exert a synergistic anti-cancer effect when combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors or temozolomide. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the heterogeneity of dopamine D1 receptor molecular roles and signaling pathways in human neoplasm development and discusses possible perspectives of its therapeutic targeting as an adjunct anti-cancer strategy of treatment. We highlight the priorities for further directions in this research area.

Background. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or its prodrug tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) are currently being recommended in treatment of HIV infection. Distinct pharmacological properties of these two forms of a this drug make TAF treatment less nephrotoxic and lead to better impact on bone density. Nevertheless, there is a rising concern about possible metabolic adverse effects of TAF. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects on the lipid profile among ART (antiretroviral therapy)-experienced patients switching from TDF‑containing to TAF‑containing regimen in the first year after the switch. Methods. Demographic and clinical data of HIV‑positive ART‑experienced patients treated in infectious diseases department was retrospectively collected. Changes of lipid profile with regards to baseline BMI, age and time of ART duration were analyzed. Results. In the group of 36 patients there was a significant increase in total cholesterol levels (+18.43 mg/dl, SD = 23.86 mg/dl, p < 0.0001) and LDL levels (+13.75 mg/dl SD = 23.05 mg/dl, p = 0.001) in first 12 months after switching from TDF‑containing to TAF‑containing regimen. There were no statistically significant changes in both HDL and TG levels observed. Analysis of total cholesterol and LDL levels in certain subpopulations revealed a significant increase within first year after the switch in patients younger than 40 years old and in those whose BMI was within normal range. Conclusions. Presented data suggests that switching from TDF to TAF in ART‑experienced patients may be associated with worsening lipid parameters. Early detection and management of dyslipidemias among HIV‑positive patients are needed.

Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA) is a mechanical circulatory support device to prevent haemodynamic compromise in selected patients undergoing high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions. Data on sex differences in the setting of Impella-assisted high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions are limited. This analysis compared the characteristics and outcomes of women and men supported with Impella CP during high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions. Consecutive patients enrolled in the IMPELLA-PL registry, undergoing high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions from January 2014 until December 2021, with 12-month follow-up until December 2022, were included in the analysis. The main endpoints included (i) In-hospital mortality, (ii) Periprocedural complications, (iii) 12-month mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events following hospital discharge. Among 253 patients analyzed, women (12.6 %) were older (75.2 ± 7.7 years vs. 70.1 ± 10.0, p = 0.006), had more left main disease (81.2 % vs. 61.1 %, p = 0.043), and higher Syntax Score (46.0 vs. 42.5, p = 0.038). The in-hospital mortality rate was comparable between groups (9.4 % vs. 8.1 %, p = 0.736). Women experienced fewer device-related complications (6.3 % vs. 20.8 %, p = 0.049), but more systemic complications (68.8 % vs. 35.7 %, p < 0.001). Women trended towards lower 12-month mortality (9.4 % vs. 19.4 %, p = 0.053), while post-discharge major adverse cardiovascular events (15.6 % vs. 23.5 %, p = 0.439) were comparable. Women and men undergoing Impella-assisted high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions have comparable in-hospital mortality rates, but different complication profiles. Following hospital discharge, the 12-month survival rate appears to be higher in women, despite more advanced age and a greater complexity of coronary artery disease.