Cristina Grosu

Dr. Cristina Grosu


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

4Years (2023-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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6 December 2023 in Biomedicines
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
ACAlexandru Dan Costache
Alexandru Dan Costache
EIEmilian Bogdan Ignat
Emilian Bogdan Ignat
CGCristina Grosu
Cristina Grosu
AMAlexandra Mastaleru
Alexandra Mastaleru
IAIrina Mihaela Abdulan
Irina Mihaela Abdulan
Florin MituFlorin Mitu
Florin Mitu
The overweight status or obesity can be confirmed through classical methods such as the body mass index (BMI) and the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Apart from metabolic issues such as atherosclerosis, liver steatosis, or diabetes mellitus, long-term obesity or overweight status can pose a risk for cardiovascular and neurovascular complications. While some acute adverse events like coronary syndromes of strokes are well-documented to be linked to an increased body mass, there are also chronic processes that, due to their silent onset and evolution, are underdiagnosed and not as thoroughly studied. Through this review, we aimed to collect all relevant data with regard to the long-term impact of obesity on cognitive function in all ages and its correlation with an earlier onset of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The exact mechanisms through which a decline in cognitive functions occurs in overweight or obese persons are still being discussed. A combination of factors has been acknowledged as potential triggers, such as a sedentary lifestyle and stress, as well as a genetic predisposition, for example, the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) alleles in AD. Most research highlights the impact of vascular dysfunction and systemic inflammation on the nervous system in patients with obesity and the subsequent neurological changes. Obesity during the early to mid-ages leads to an earlier onset of cognitive dysfunction in various forms. Also, lifestyle intervention can reverse cognitive dysfunction, especially dieting, to encourage weight loss.

28 June 2024 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
AMAlexandra Mastaleru
Alexandra Mastaleru
Gabriela PopescuGabriela Popescu
Gabriela Popescu
IAIrina Mihaela Abdulan
Irina Mihaela Abdulan
CCCARMEN MARINELA CUMPAT
CARMEN MARINELA CUMPAT
ACAlexandru Dan Costache
Alexandru Dan Costache
MLMaria Magdalena Leon
Maria Magdalena Leon
(1) Background: Asthma is a syndrome found in both adults and children, characterized by airflow obstruction caused by the inflammation of the airways. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have found that lipid metabolism influences both the development and symptomatology of asthma. Lipid metabolism plays an important role both in the occurrence of exacerbations and in the reduction of lung inflammation. Our study aimed to identify any type of association between patients diagnosed with asthma and their serum lipids, including HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides in adults. (2) Methods: To find articles for our review, we searched two platforms: PubMed and Google Scholar. A total of 309 articles from two platforms were analyzed. Finally, 12 papers were selected from the initial pool of identified articles. (3) Results: The positive correlation between triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol), and asthma has been demonstrated in several studies. Moreover, it appears that there is an association between biomarkers of type 2 inflammation and HDL and serum triglycerides in people with atopic status. Regarding the nutrition of asthmatic patients, the greatest impact on the development of the disease seems to be the consumption of fruit and vegetables. Several studies show that a predominantly vegan diet is associated with better control of the disease and a decrease in the number of pro-inflammatory cytokines. (4) Conclusions: Studies show a positive correlation between total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-cholesterol levels and asthma and a negative correlation between HDL-cholesterol and asthma. Increased cholesterol values would lead to the stimulation of pro-inflammatory processes and the secretion of cytokines involved in these processes. The most successful diets for asthma patients seem to be those in which the consumption of fruit, vegetables, and high-fiber foods is increased because all of these food groups are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.

6 May 2025 in Diagnostics
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Ciubotaru Alin FlorentinCiubotaru Alin Florentin
Ciubotaru Alin Florentin
MSMadalina Irina Smihor
Madalina Irina Smihor
CGCristina Grosu
Cristina Grosu
DADaniel Alexa
Daniel Alexa
RCRoxana Covali
Roxana Covali
EIEmilian Bogdan Ignat
Emilian Bogdan Ignat
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration within the central nervous system (CNS). While the inflammatory components of MS have been extensively studied, the progressive neurodegenerative aspect remains a critical factor contributing to long-term disability. Therefore, the identification and validation of biomarkers associated with neurodegenerative processes are essential for improved diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. This review explores cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood-based biomarkers, including neurofilaments, lipid markers, kynurenines, and other molecular indicators that provide insights into neurodegeneration in MS.

19 January 2025 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
CGCristina Grosu
Cristina Grosu
ONOTILIA NOEA
OTILIA NOEA
AMAlexandra Mastaleru
Alexandra Mastaleru
EIEmilian Bogdan Ignat
Emilian Bogdan Ignat
MLMaria Magdalena Leon
Maria Magdalena Leon
Background: Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (NOH) is a significant non-motor manifestation of Parkinson’s disease (PD), that substantially affects patient disability and has a powerful impact on the quality of life of PD patients, while also contributing to increased healthcare costs. This narrative review aims to summarize key insights into the diagnosis and management of NOH in individuals with PD. Methods: For diagnosing NOH, a recently introduced and valuable metric is the ΔHr/ΔSBP index. Additional tools, such as autonomic reflex testing and various blood tests, also can be used to help distinguish orthostatic hypotension (OH) from NOH. Results: Treatment strategies for NOH involve both non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches. As NOH frequently coexists with other abnormal blood pressure patterns (supine hypertension, nocturnal hypertension, and non-dipping hypertension), its treatment can be a challenge for the clinician. Droxidopa and midodrine are the primary pharmacological agents for NOH, though emerging therapies, such as norepinephrine transporter inhibitors, are being investigated. Conclusions: Despite these advancements, further research is needed to better understand the underlying pathophysiology of NOH, enabling more tailored and effective treatment options for individuals with PD.

21 August 2025 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
CGCristina Grosu
Cristina Grosu
EIEmilian Bogdan Ignat
Emilian Bogdan Ignat
DADaniel Alexa
Daniel Alexa
Ciubotaru Alin FlorentinCiubotaru Alin Florentin
Ciubotaru Alin Florentin
MLMaria Magdalena Leon
Maria Magdalena Leon
DTDAN TROFIN
DAN TROFIN
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, immune-mediated neurological disorder with increasing global prevalence. Emerging evidence underscores the role of lifestyle interventions (particularly diet and physical activity) in modulating disease progression and improving quality of life. This narrative review synthesizes current scientific literature on the effects of dietary interventions, including the Mediterranean, ketogenic, Swank, Wahls, gluten-free, and fasting-based diets, alongside various physical activity regimens. The Mediterranean and ketogenic diets show promise in reducing inflammation, enhancing neuroprotection, and improving metabolic health. Similarly, structured physical activity (including aerobic, resistance, sensorimotor, and mind–body exercises) demonstrates benefits in mobility, fatigue, and mental well-being. The review highlights the need for personalized, sustainable approaches that integrate nutritional and exercise-based strategies for optimal MS management in the long term.

3 January 2024 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
MLMaria Magdalena Leon
Maria Magdalena Leon
AMAlexandra Mastaleru
Alexandra Mastaleru
AOAndra Oancea
Andra Oancea
TATeodora Alexa-Stratulat
Teodora Alexa-Stratulat
CPCatalina Anisoara Peptu
Catalina Anisoara Peptu
ECElena Cojocaru
Elena Cojocaru
(1) Background: We aim to develop novel gel formulations for transdermal drug delivery systems in acute and inflammatory pain therapy. (2) Methods: We induced inflammation by the injection of λ-carrageenan on the hind paw of 80 Wistar male rats. The animals were randomized into eight groups of 10 rats each: C (placebo gel), E (EMLATM), L (lidocaine 2%), L-CD (lidocaine + cyclodextrin 2.5%), L-LP (lidocaine + liposomes 1.7%), L-CS (lidocaine + chitosan 4%), L-CSh (lidocaine + chitosan hydrochloride), and L-CS-LP (lidocaine + chitosan + liposomes). The behavior response was determined with a hot plate, cold plate, and algesimeter, each being performed at 30, 60, 120, 180, and 240 min after pain induction. At the end of the experiment, tissue samples were collected for histological assessment. (3) Results: L-LP had the greatest anesthetic effects, which was proven on the cold plate test compared to placebo and EMLATM (all p ≤ 0.001). L-CS-LP had a significant effect on cold plate evaluation compared to placebo (p ≤ 0.001) and on hot plate evaluation compared to EMLATM (p = 0.018). (4) Conclusions: L-LP is a new substance with a substantial analgesic effect demonstrated by the cold plate in the first 120 min. Further studies with more animals are needed to determine the maximum doses that can be applied for a better analgesia with minimum side effects.