Semaphorins belong to a group of membrane and secretory proteins that act as ligands for several receptor families and are involved in modulating cell signaling pathways. They bind multimeric receptor complexes on the cell membrane to exert their effects and initiate unique intracellular signal transduction cascades. These proteins can influence several processes that are very important for cell function, such as cell division and differentiation. Semaphorins are involved in cell migration, apoptosis, cell adhesion, aggregation, and numerous immune processes due to their immunoregulatory effects. Semaphorins are expressed in keratinocytes, which is why they have become a target for studies on the pathogenesis of skin diseases. Most studies to date on the role of semaphorins in the pathogenesis of skin diseases have been carried out in cellular or animal models, and there are few clinical studies evaluating the role of semaphorins in the pathogenesis and therapy of skin diseases. In this narrative review, we summarized the current state of knowledge on the role of semaphorins in the pathogenesis of skin diseases and their potential importance as targets for therapy. We also tried to present the key findings and weaknesses of previous research in this field. The novelty of this article lies in the comprehensive presentation of the role of semaphorins in the pathogenesis of skin diseases, including the results of studies on cell cultures and animal models, elucidating the mechanisms and signaling pathways through which semaphorins affect the development of skin diseases, as well as on the presentation of the results of existing clinical trials evaluating the role of semaphorins in the pathogenesis of skin diseases, and as potential therapeutic targets.

The recent era of rapid advancements in information technology has enabled various medical disciplines to tackle longstanding problems in novel ways. Among these, virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising alternative or complement to conventional physical therapy (CPT) for managing chronic musculoskeletal, degenerative, neurological, and pulmonary conditions. Increased patient motivation during treatment, low drop-out rates, and instant feedback are among the primary reasons VR is gaining trust among physicians, patients, and caregivers worldwide. Evidence suggests that VR can significantly enhance motor performance, cognitive skills, pulmonary function, activities of daily living (ADLs), quality of life (QoL), and even reduce pain intensity in several chronic diseases. Notably, patients with stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are poised to be the primary beneficiaries of VR. Thus, it appears that VR-based techniques are set to leave a footprint on clinical practice globally. However, challenges to the clinical adoption of VR remain, including technical limitations, the lack of standardized guidelines, and minor safety concerns that must be addressed. This paper summarizes the background, current developments, and key considerations for future research in this rapidly evolving field.

Background: An adequate interlesion distance (ILD) applied during point-by-point pulmonary vein (PV) isolation for atrial fibrillation (AF) has never been established. We hypothesized that maximum tolerated ILD may differ between PV regions and may influence long-term ablation outcomes. Methods: A total of 260 AF patients underwent PV isolation with 3D electroanatomical platform. Postablation, ILD values were classified into 5 groups (6–5.5 mm, 5.5–5.0 mm, 5.0–4.5 mm, 4.5–4.0 mm and <4.0 mm); the number of tags in each group was calculated and correlated with postablation AF recurrence (AFR). All measurements were performed globally for the entire encirclement around each individual PV and regionally for designated PV anatomic segments. Results: Single-procedure freedom from AF was 81% for paroxysmal and 66% for persistent AF at 12 months. Global analysis showed that AFR was not related to median ILD nor the number of lesions within each ILD tag group for any PV. Segmental analysis showed that AFR was not related to median ILD. However, the presence of tags from the 5.5–6.0 mm ILD group located on the posterior aspect of right upper PV (RUPV) correlated with AFR. This was confirmed in a multivariable logistic regression model. Conclusions: Maximum tolerated ILD of 6.0 mm translated into well-accepted ablation results. However, the study suggests that it may be inadequate at the posterior aspect of RUPV.

Introduction and aim. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a key marker of ovarian reserve (OR), which declines with advancing reproductive age. Certain pathological conditions can reduce OR or lower AMH levels independently of age, potentially impairing fertility. This study aims to review the scientific literature on factors influencing AMH levels and the causes of diminished OR, including lifestyle, diet, supplementation, pathogenic factors, environmental influences, and genetic predispositions. Material and methods. This review was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar. A comprehensive search was carried out across these databases, covering the period from 2007 to 2024. The inclusion criteria encompass studies on AMH and factors influencing ovarian reserve, that present either quantitative or qualitative data. Analysis of the literature. The most important factor determining the level of AMH is age. In addition, factors that may influence hormone levels include genetic background, autoimmune diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), environmental toxins, diet, supplementation, oral contraception, physical activity, and smoking. Conclusion. The causes of reduced OR and abnormal AMH levels remain unclear in many cases. Recommendations for the prevention of pathologically reduced OR include lifestyle modifications, a diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding toxins, refraining from smoking, appropriate supplementation, genetic testing, and regular blood tests.

Introduction and Purpose. The gut microbiome has been the focus of scientific attention for many years. Modification of its composition are used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The aim of this review is to summarise the current knowledge about the role of the gut microbiome in cardiovascular diseases, using atherosclerosis as an example. Materials and methods. A literature review was carried out using the professional PubMed database. Articles were searched using keywords such as: "gut microbiome", "atherosclerosis", "diet", "physical activity". State of knowledge. The review describes the mechanism linking the gut microbiome to atherosclerosis and the differences in the composition of the gut microbiota in people with atherosclerosis risk factors compared with healthy individuals. The effect of probiotics on atherosclerotic lesions and the role of appropriate donor selection in faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) are discussed. The review describes also how the composition of the gut microbiome affects physical performance. Summary. The gut microbiome plays a huge role in the human body. It affects the health of the entire body including the cardiovascular system. The composition of the intestinal microbiota varies between individuals. It has been found that the microbiome of people with risk factors for atherosclerosis is dominated by pro-inflammatory bacteria. The possibility of modifying the composition of the microbiome through diet, physical activity and the use of probiotics offers hope for the contribution of the gut microbiota to the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.

Introduction and Purpose. For many years, people have been fascinated by the question of how to achieve a long and healthy life, seeking a recipe for longevity. Our lifestyle can play a significant role in this. The aim of this review is to enhance public awareness of longevity and to emphasise the consequences of our daily habits.Materials and Methods. A literature review was carried out using the PubMed database, searching for the most recently published scientific sources.State of Knowledge. The review details the impact of individual lifestyle elements on quantity and quality of life. The benefits of physical activity were discussed, including the amount of exercise necessary per week to reduce mortality risk, and the most efficacious sport disciplines for health promotion. It also emphasises the significance of dietary habits and the role of phytochemicals. Additionally, it addresses the following questions: Does consuming small amounts of alcohol prolong life? What is the extent of the damage caused by smoking? How can stress and sleep be managed? Why are social relationships an important protective element? Finally, it considers whether there is a cure for longevity.Summary. A holistic approach that encompasses a sufficient level of physical activity, proper nutritional habits and the maintenance of a healthy body weight can contribute towards the attainment of longevity. Conversely, factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor stress or sleep management and loneliness can have a negative effect on life expectancy. A search is underway for anti-aging pharmacological compounds that are both efficacious and safe.