Oxidative stress, arising from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, contributes significantly to oral cancer such as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) initiation, promotion, and progression. ROS, generated both internally and externally, induce cellular damage including DNA mutations and lipid peroxidation, fostering oncogene activation and carcinogenesis. The objective of this review was to cover and analyze the interplay between ROS and antioxidants, influencing the key processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis, shaping the trajectory of OSCC development. Despite the promise of antioxidants to halt cancer progression and mitigate oxidative damage, their therapeutic efficacy remains debated. The conducted literature search highlighted potential biomarkers that indicate levels of oxidative stress, showing promise for the early detection and monitoring of OSCC. Furthermore, melatonin has emerged as a promising adjunct therapy for OSCC, exerting antioxidant and oncostatic effects by modulating tumor-associated neutrophils and inhibiting cancer cell survival and migration. In addition, this review aims to shed light on developing personalized therapeutic strategies for patients with OSCC such as melatonin therapy, which will be discussed. Research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of oxidative stress modulation in the context of oral cancer.

Cervical cancer ranks third among malignant diseases of the female reproductive system and progressively develops through a series of pathological changes known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Despite being extremely aggressive and causing increased mortality, the main treatment options include surgery or a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, often based on cisplatin-based chemotherapy and external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy. Cervical dysplasia is an abnormal growth of cells on the surface of the cervix that could lead to cervical cancer. CIN most commonly occurs at the squamocolumnar junction of the cervix, a transitional zone between the squamous epithelium of the vagina and the columnar epithelium of the endocervix. The primary cause of CIN is chronic infection of the cervix with Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Oxidative stress (OS) and chronic inflammation are associated with HPV-induced cervical dysplasia. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) facilitate the progression of CIN through DNA damage, immune evasion, and cellular mutations. Thus, the inflammatory environment, characterized by increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines, contributes to epithelial transformation. Given these mechanisms, antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, D, E, polyphenols, and carotenoids, are being investigated for their potential as adjunctive therapies in CIN management. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the influence of oxidative stress, antioxidants, and inflammation on cervical cancer.

Tartrazine (TZ, also known as FD&C Yellow No. 5 or E102) is a synthetic, water-soluble yellow food dye widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Some studies have associated TZ with allergic reactions, especially among people with dye sensitivities or pre-existing allergies. Recent research also suggests a possible link between TZ consumption and the worsening of behavioral disorders, especially in children, including symptoms such as hyperactivity, irritability, restlessness, and sleep disturbances. Experimental studies in laboratory animals have highlighted potential risks associated with prolonged or high-dose exposure, including toxic effects on the nervous system and liver function. In addition, increasing evidence indicates that TZ can induce oxidative stress (OS) by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can contribute to cellular damage and inflammation. Although the evidence remains inconclusive, there are recommendations to limit the intake of synthetic food dyes, especially in children’s diets. The purpose of this review is to examine the potential toxic effects on health of tartrazine by analyzing findings from experimental studies in cell cultures and laboratory animals, as well as correlations observed in humans. We focus on documented adverse reactions, including possible neurotoxic, hepatotoxic, oxidative, and behavioral effects. Through this, we aim to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with exposure to this synthetic food dye.

Brain tumors, despite the high mortality and morbidity, they are a rare type of heterogenous tumors that are highly dependent on sex, age, race, level of education, and socioeconomic status. Due to their high mortality rates, it is important to identify as many potential biomarkers for early detection as the earlier the tumor is discovered, the better the prognosis. One such early biomarker we propose in the current paper is the assessment of anxiety, depression, and cognitive changes. In most cancer patients, a certain degree of anxiety and depression is expected upon receiving the diagnosis as it triggers fears regarding the prognosis, possible side effects of the treatment, and even the possibility of the treatment failing. In this paper we analyzed the way anxiety, depression, and cognitive changes present themselves in the case of several types of tumors and whether these could be used as early markers. We have observed that most of the cognitive changes present are due to the location, size, and type of the tumor with some highly connected to anxiety and depression. Moreover, in the case of certain tumors, the removal of the mass has not improved the mood or cognitive function.

Diagnosing traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains challenging due to an incomplete understanding of its neuropathological mechanisms. TBI is recognised as a complex condition involving both primary and secondary injuries. Although oxidative stress is a non-specific molecular phenomenon observed in various neuropathological conditions, it plays a crucial role in brain injury response and recovery. Due to these aspects, we aimed to evaluate the interaction between some known TBI molecular biomarkers and oxidative stress in providing evidence for its possible relevance in clinical diagnosis and outcome prediction. We found that while many of the currently validated molecular biomarkers interact with oxidative pathways, their patterns of variation could assist the diagnosis, prognosis, and outcomes prediction in TBI cases.

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges in managing neurological conditions, particularly among athletes. This paper explores the intersection of post-COVID-19 neurological syndrome (PCNS/PASC) and post-concussion syndrome (PCS), focusing on their implications in sports medicine. Our analysis covers the symptomatology, pathophysiology, and management strategies for PCNS/PASC and PPCS, with special attention paid to the unique challenges faced by athletes recovering from these conditions, including the risk of symptom exacerbation and prolonged recovery. Key findings reveal that both PCNS/PASC and PPCS present with overlapping symptoms such as cognitive difficulties, exercise intolerance, and mental health issues, but differ in specific manifestations like anosmia and ageusia, unique to COVID-19. Pathophysiological analysis reveals similarities in blood–brain barrier disruption (BBB) but differences in the extent of immune activation. Management strategies emphasize a gradual increase in physical activity, close symptom monitoring, and psychological support, with a tailored approach for athletes. Specific interventions include progressive aerobic exercises, resistance training, and cognitive rehabilitation. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of integrating neurology, psychiatry, physical therapy, and sports medicine to develop comprehensive care strategies. Our findings underscore the dual challenge of COVID-19 and concussion in athletes, necessitating a nuanced, interdisciplinary approach to effective management. Future research should focus on the long-term neurological effects of both conditions and optimizing treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for advancing the management of athletes affected by these overlapping conditions and ensuring their safe return to sports.