Modern lifestyle diseases remain a persistent challenge in healthcare. Currently, about 422 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes, while 1 in 8 people are living with obesity. The development of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) has marked a significant milestone in treating these conditions. Interest in GLP-1RAs has grown due to evidence that, beyond their established role in diabetes management, these drugs influence other metabolic disorders. This is attributed to the fact that GLP-1 receptors are found in various healthy human tissues. However, a potential cause for concern is the expression of GLP-1 receptors in certain cancers. This review focuses on the most recent findings concerning the actions of GLP-1RAs, detailing their documented impact on the thyroid gland and pancreas. It addresses concerns about the long-term use of GLP-1RAs in relation to the development of pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid neoplasms by exploring the mechanisms and long-term effects in different patient subgroups and including data not discussed previously. This review was conducted through an examination of the literature available in the MedLine (PubMed) database, covering publications from 1978 to 10 May 2024. The collected articles were selected based on their relevance to studies of GLP-1 agonists and their effects on the pancreas and thyroid and assessed to meet the established inclusion criteria. The revised papers suggest that prolonged use of GLP-1RA could contribute to the formation of thyroid tumors and may increase the risk of acute inflammatory conditions such as pancreatitis, particularly in high-risk patients. Therefore, physicians should advise patients on the need for more frequent and detailed follow-ups.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity significantly increasing the risk of CVD. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4is) have gained attention for their potential cardioprotective effects. Therefore, this review aims to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular benefits of these agents. A literature review was conducted searching PubMed databases from 1990 to January 2025, including research on the effects of GLP-1 RA and DPP-4i on cardiovascular health, specifically concerning atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, vascular health, cardiac arrhythmias, myocardial infarction (MI), and heart failure, with a focus on the biochemical and molecular effects of these drugs. We analyzed 131 scientific publications, which indicate that GLP-1 RA and DPP-4i significantly reduce cardiovascular risk and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrhythmias. These clinical outcomes are attributed to the mitigation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction as well as improvement in mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism. GLP-1 RAs offer substantial cardiovascular benefits, making them valuable in managing T2DM and reducing CVD risk. Their integration into treatment regimens for CVD can reduce hospitalization rates, improve quality of life, and extend life expectancy. DPP-4is, while beneficial, are less effective in cardiovascular protection. Further research is needed to optimize therapeutic strategies and broaden the clinical application of these agents in cardiometabolic care.

Stretching is one of the popular elements in physiotherapy and rehabilitation. When correctly guided, it can help minimize or slow down the disabling effects of chronic health conditions. Most likely, the benefits are associated with reducing inflammation; recent studies demonstrate that this effect from stretching is not just systemic but also local. In this review, we present the current body of knowledge on the anti-inflammatory properties of stretching at a molecular level. A total of 22 papers, focusing on anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties of stretching, have been selected and reviewed. We show the regulation of oxidative stress, the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory genes and mediators, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix, expressed by changes in collagen and matrix metalloproteinases levels, in tissues subjected to stretching. We point out that a better understanding of the anti-inflammatory properties of stretching may result in increasing its importance in treatment and recovery from diseases such as osteoarthritis, systemic sclerosis, and cancer.

Membrane transporters are expressed in a wide range of tissues in the human organism. These proteins regulate the penetration of various substances such as simple ions, xenobiotics, and an extensive number of therapeutics. ABC and SLC drug transporters play a crucial role in drug absorption, distribution, and elimination. Recent decades have shown their contribution to the systemic exposure and tissue penetration of numerous drugs, thereby having an impact on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. Importantly, the activity and expression of these transporters depend on numerous conditions, including intestinal microbiome profiles or health conditions. Moreover, the combined intake of other drugs or natural agents further affects the functionality of these proteins. In this review, we will discuss the involvement of ABC and SLC transporters in drug disposition. Moreover, we will present current evidence of the potential role of drug transporters as therapeutic targets.

Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is a rare, autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by mutations in the DHCR7 gene, which encodes the enzyme responsible for the final step in cholesterol biosynthesis. Impaired enzyme function leads to cholesterol deficiency, affecting the development and function of the entire organism. The accumulation of cholesterol precursors enhances the formation of oxysterols, which are involved in the pathomechanism of neurological, ophthalmological, and vascular changes in patients. This review analyzes 53 studies published between 2020 and 2025 on the molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical features of SLOS, including cholesterol deficiency, oxysterol accumulation, and the latest diagnostic methods, including LC-MS/MS chromatography and biomarkers such as GFAP for monitoring disease progression. MRI is discussed as a supportive tool for neuroimaging, along with advances in prenatal diagnostics, such as the detection of cholesterol precursors in neonatal hair. Therapeutic options are also reviewed, with particular emphasis on cholesterol supplementation, cholic acid, and experimental treatments such as vitamin E supplementation, statin therapy, gene therapy, and liver transplantation. Current research indicates that expanding knowledge in this area not only improves patient prognosis but also provides hope for the development of effective therapies in the future.

Background: Orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances often induces pain. Despite existing research on pain management, the dynamic nature of orthodontic pain and its relationship with tooth movement remain underexplored. This study surveys adults under fixed appliance therapy to investigate pain dynamics, modifying factors, and perceived tooth movement, aiming to provide insights for improved patient care and treatment outcomes. Methods: This study focused on healthy individuals aged 18 to 50 undergoing fixed appliance treatment for up to six months after having braces bonded. A 24-question survey was administered over a one-month period. The survey explored pain intensity, pain dynamics, modifying factors, and perceived tooth movement. Results: Pain typically began within the first few hours after bonding and peaked the following day for most respondents. The upper incisors and molars were the most frequently reported areas of pain, corresponding to the teeth perceived as moving earliest. Chewing was identified as the primary external pain trigger. Gender significantly influenced pain perception, with women reporting higher pain levels and greater use of medication. The majority of participants managed without medication. Conclusions: Pain during the early phase of fixed appliance therapy follows a predictable pattern, with peak intensity occurring on the day after bonding. Pain perception strongly correlates with early tooth movement, particularly in the upper incisors. Gender differences were evident, but other demographic factors had minimal influence. Chewing was the primary pain aggravator, emphasizing the need for dietary modifications. Understanding these findings can help orthodontists develop personalized pain management strategies.