Scarlet Affa

Ms. Scarlet Affa

Biochemistry and Chemistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

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

Representative Publications

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1 March 2024 in Biomedicines
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
John DawiJohn Dawi
John Dawi
Scarlet AffaScarlet Affa
Scarlet Affa
EGEdgar Gonzalez
Edgar Gonzalez
YMYura Misakyan
Yura Misakyan
David NikoghosyanDavid Nikoghosyan
David Nikoghosyan
Vishwanath VenketaramanVishwanath Venketaraman
Vishwanath Venketaraman
This review explores ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death reliant on iron-induced phospholipid peroxidation, in diverse physiological and pathological contexts, including neurodegenerative disorders, and ischemia-reperfusion. In the realm of cardiovascular diseases, it significantly contributes to cardiomyopathies, including dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy. Ferroptosis involves intricate interactions within cellular iron metabolism, lipid peroxidation, and the balance between polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Molecularly, factors like p53 and NRF2 impact cellular susceptibility to ferroptosis under oxidative stress. Understanding ferroptosis is vital in cardiomyopathies, where cardiac myocytes heavily depend on aerobic respiration, with iron playing a pivotal role. Dysregulation of the antioxidant enzyme GPX4 is linked to cardiomyopathies, emphasizing its significance. Ferroptosis’s role in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, exacerbated in diabetes, underscores its relevance in cardiovascular conditions. This review explores the connection between ferroptosis, the NRF2 pathway, and atherosclerosis, emphasizing their roles in protecting cells from oxidative stress and maintaining iron balance. It discusses the use of iron chelating agents in managing iron overload conditions, with associated benefits and challenges. Finally, it highlights the importance of exploring therapeutic strategies that enhance the glutathione (GSH) system and the potential of natural compounds like quercetin, terpenoids, and phenolic acids in reducing oxidative stress.

27 November 2024 in BioMolecular Concepts
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
John DawiJohn Dawi
John Dawi
Scarlet AffaScarlet Affa
Scarlet Affa
YMYura Misakyan
Yura Misakyan
SFSabrina Fardeheb
Sabrina Fardeheb
SKSamuel Kades
Samuel Kades
VVVishwanath Venkentaraman
Vishwanath Venkentaraman
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) poses a diagnostic challenge due to its heterogeneity. This study examines the cardiac complications of SLE comprehensively, covering pericarditis, myocarditis, pleural effusion, valvular disease, atherosclerosis, and cardiac arrhythmias. Nearly one-third of SLE-related deaths are attributed to cardiovascular diseases, necessitating a deeper understanding of cardiac pathophysiology. The impact of SLE on the cardiovascular system manifests in various ways, including recurrent and resistant pericarditis, severe myocarditis, and pleural effusion. Valvular diseases, atherosclerosis, and cardiac arrhythmias are prevalent, with immune complex deposition playing a role in atherosclerosis. Diagnostic criteria involve clinical features, laboratory findings, and autoantibodies, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach. The review explores pharmacological and non-pharmacological modalities for managing cardiac manifestations in SLE. Recommendations include NSAIDs, colchicine, and proton pump inhibitors for acute pericarditis, while selective immunosuppressive therapy is emerging for myocarditis. Valvular diseases require individualized treatment approaches, and careful corticosteroid management is crucial to avoid increased cardiovascular events. Anti-malarial therapy, particularly hydroxychloroquine, shows promise in mitigating cardiovascular risk factors. Non-pharmacological modifications, such as diet, exercise, and smoke cessation, significantly contribute to cardiovascular health in SLE patients. Adjuvant therapies involving glutathione and glutathione peroxidase focus on redox balance, offering potential interventions. This integrated approach combines diagnostic insights with diverse treatment modalities, providing a holistic strategy for managing cardiac complications in SLE. Ongoing research is essential to refine these strategies and optimize individualized treatment plans for improved patient outcomes.

24 November 2025 in Clinics and Practice
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
John DawiJohn Dawi
John Dawi
YMYura Misakyan
Yura Misakyan
EGEdgar Gonzalez
Edgar Gonzalez
KKKevin Kafaja
Kevin Kafaja
Scarlet AffaScarlet Affa
Scarlet Affa
Vishwanath VenketaramanVishwanath Venketaraman
Vishwanath Venketaraman
Inguinal hernia represents a multifactorial condition driven by extracellular matrix (ECM) dysregulation, collagen imbalance, and oxidative stress. Across studies, a consistent reduction in the collagen I:III ratio, coupled with altered expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), underpins weakened fascia and hernia susceptibility. Aging further impairs ECM remodeling through fibroblast senescence, cross-linking deficits, and elastic fiber attrition, while oxidative stress and inflammation amplify tissue degradation and impair repair mechanisms. Evidence from clinical and experimental studies underscores the interplay between surgical technique, mesh choice, redox balance, and recurrence risk. Understanding the combined impact of aging and oxidative stress provides a mechanistic framework for targeted therapeutic and surgical strategies aimed at preventing hernia development and recurrence.

29 February 2024 in Diseases
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
John DawiJohn Dawi
John Dawi
AMAishvaryaa Mohan
Aishvaryaa Mohan
YMYura Misakyan
Yura Misakyan
Scarlet AffaScarlet Affa
Scarlet Affa
EGEdgar Gonzalez
Edgar Gonzalez
Vishwanath VenketaramanVishwanath Venketaraman
Vishwanath Venketaraman
Meningitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be triggered by various factors, including infectious agents like viruses and bacteria and non-infectious contributors such as cancer or head injuries. The impact of meningitis on the central nervous system involves disruptions in the blood–brain barrier, cellular infiltrations, and structural alterations. The clinical features that differentiate between tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and non-tuberculous meningitis (NTM) are discussed in this review and aid in accurate diagnosis. The intricate interplay of reactive oxygen species, ferroptosis, and reactive nitrogen species within the central nervous system reveals a promising field of research for innovative therapeutic strategies tailored to TBM. This review highlights the alternative treatments targeting oxidative stress-induced TBM and ferroptosis, providing potential avenues for intervention in the pathogenesis of this complex condition.

20 March 2024 in Discovery Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
John DawiJohn Dawi
John Dawi
Scarlet AffaScarlet Affa
Scarlet Affa
ACAbraham Chorbajian
Abraham Chorbajian
YMYura Misakyan
Yura Misakyan
AMAishvaryaa Shree Mohan
Aishvaryaa Shree Mohan
Vishwanath VenketaramanVishwanath Venketaraman
Vishwanath Venketaraman
This research project delves into the multifaceted dynamics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) endocarditis, a significant yet uncommon manifestation of tuberculosis (TB). Beginning with an overview of M.tb and the global challenges posed by TB, we navigate through the bacterium's evolution, transmission modes, and the intricate host immune response. The pathology and pathophysiology of M.tb endocarditis are explored, emphasizing its complexities and the host's efforts to contain the pathogen. The study extends to atypical mycobacterial endocarditis, highlighting the emergence of species like M.chimaera, M.fortuitum, and M.chelonae, with a focus on their association with life-threatening mycobacterial endocarditis. Clinical presentations and complications of M.tb endocarditis are detailed, addressing challenges in diagnosis, drug-resistant, co-infections with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and potential sepsis. The research underscores the need for a deeper understanding of M.tb endocarditis to enhance prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Examining the genetic and environmental factors influencing M.tb endocarditis, the study discusses the interplay of immune-related genes, environmental conditions, and predispositions contributing to infection susceptibility. Despite challenges in treatment due to its rarity, the research highlights current protocols, surgical interventions, and promising pharmaceutical developments. Lastly, unraveling these intricate factors is crucial for refining strategies and conducting large-scale trials to address this global health threat effectively.

20 June 2024 in Discovery Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
John DawiJohn Dawi
John Dawi
Scarlet AffaScarlet Affa
Scarlet Affa
YMYura Misakyan
Yura Misakyan
SKSamuel Kades
Samuel Kades
SASyed Asim
Syed Asim
Vishwanath VenketaramanVishwanath Venketaraman
Vishwanath Venketaraman
This review comprehensively explores the dysregulation of Gamma Delta T-cells, CD8+ T Cells, and Natural Killer T Cells in the context of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and its implications for brain pathology. It encompasses an overview of the HIV disease process, immune cell dysregulation, association with neurological diseases, and the critical role of Glutathione (GSH) in T-cell function. The alterations in Gamma Delta T-cells during chronic infection, the intricate dynamics of Vδ1 and Vδ2 subsets, and the potential of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in inhibiting HIV replication are discussed. Additionally, the review addresses the exhaustion, impaired cytotoxicity, and premature senescence of CD8+ T cells, as well as the dysregulation of Natural Killer Cells (NKCs) and their impact on overall immune system activity. Furthermore, it examines the role of Gamma Delta (γδ) T-cells in brain injuries, infections, and tumors and highlights the therapeutic implications of elevated GSH levels in promoting a T helper 1 (Th1) immune response. However, HIV-infected patients with decreased GSH exhibit a T helper 2 (Th2) bias, compromising protection against intracellular pathogens. Finally, the review discusses studies in murine models demonstrating the impact of GSH levels on immune responses and underscores the therapeutic potential of targeting GSH to enhance immunity in HIV patients. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between immune dysregulation, GSH levels, and HIV-associated brain pathology, offering insights into potential therapeutic avenues for mitigating immune compromise and neurological impairments in HIV patients.