Spironolactone (SP), an aldosterone antagonist with anti-androgen properties, has shown promising results in the treatment of female acne. However, its systemic side effects limit its clinical benefits. This study aimed to prepare and evaluate LeciPlexes for SP topical delivery. LeciPlexes were prepared by a one-step procedure and characterized using various techniques. Optimum LeciPlex preparation was incorporated into 1% methylcellulose gel and SP permeability was tested ex vivo in Sprague-Dawley rat skin. The maximum drug encapsulation efficiency obtained was 93.6 ± 6.9% and was dependent on the drug/phospholipid and surfactant/phospholipid ratios. A zeta potential of +49.3 ± 3.5 to +57.7 ± 3.3 mV and a size of 108 ± 25.3 to 668.5 ± 120.3 nm were observed for the LeciPlexes. FT-IR and DSC studies confirmed the incorporation of SP into the LeciPlexes through hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions. SP release from the LeciPlex formulations was significantly slower than from the drug suspension. Cumulative SP permeated through rat skin from LeciPlex gel was about 2-fold higher than SP control gel. Cumulative SP deposited in the stratum corneum and other skin layers from the LeciPlex gel was about 1.8- and 2.6-fold higher than SP control gel, respectively. This new SP LeciPlex formulation is a promising carrier for the treatment of female acne.

Background and Aim: The human gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining health. Artificial sweeteners, also known as non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS), have garnered attention for their potential to disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome. This review explores the complex relationship between NNS and the gut microbiome, highlighting their potential benefits and risks. By synthesizing current evidence, we aim to provide a balanced perspective on the role of AS in dietary practices and health outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted research to guide their safe and effective use. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted through searches in PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on the effects of artificial sweeteners on gut microbiota. The search utilized key terms including “Gut Microbiome”, “gut microbiota”, “Eubiosis”, “Dysbiosis”, “Artificial Sweeteners”, and “Nonnutritive Sweeteners”. Results: NNS may alter the gut microbiome, but findings remain inconsistent. Animal studies often report a decrease in beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, and an increase in harmful strains such as Clostridium difficile and E. coli, potentially leading to inflammation and gut imbalance. Disruptions in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and gut hormone signaling have also been observed. However, human studies generally show milder or no significant changes, highlighting the limitations in translating animal model findings directly to humans. Differences in study design, dosage, exposure time, and sweetener type likely contribute to these varied outcomes. Conclusions: While NNS offer certain benefits, including reduced caloric intake and improved blood sugar regulation, their impact on gut microbiome health raises important concerns. The observed reduction in beneficial bacteria and the rise in pathogenic strains underscore the need for caution in NNS consumption. Furthermore, the disruption of SCFA production and metabolic pathways illustrates the intricate relationship between diet and gut health.

Anlotinib, a novel receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is taken orally, targets several RTKs and is authorized as a third-line treatment for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Anlotinib is also used in combination with immunotherapy or chemotherapy for advanced NSCLC. We aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of anlotinib-based regimens in NSCLC treatment, focusing on combination therapies. We also addressed challenges that hinder oncologists from using it, such as toxicity and resistance mechanisms. A systematic approach involves searching the National Institute of Health PubMed, Scopus, MedLine, and Web of Science databases up to April 2024. Relevant studies were identified and analyzed for their methodologies, outcomes, and patient characteristics. Findings revealed that numerous effective combination regimens, such as anlotinib with platinum-based chemotherapy and anlotinib combined with PD-1 blockades, have shown positive results in terms of progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and objective response rate (ORR). On the other hand, NSCLC treatment faces hurdles due to drug resistance and its toxicity profile. These challenges underscore the need for continued research and optimization of treatment strategies.

The rising burden of fungal infections presents a significant challenge to global healthcare, particularly with increasing antifungal resistance limiting treatment efficacy. Early detection and timely intervention remain critical, yet fungal pathogens employ diverse mechanisms to evade host immunity and develop resistance, undermining existing therapeutic options. Limited antifungal options and rising resistance necessitate novel treatment strategies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of conventional antifungal agents, their mechanisms of action, and emerging resistance pathways. Furthermore, it highlights recently approved and investigational antifungal compounds while evaluating innovative approaches such as nanotechnology, drug repurposing, and immunotherapy. Addressing antifungal resistance requires a multifaceted strategy that integrates novel therapeutics, enhanced diagnostic tools, and future research efforts to develop sustainable and effective treatment solutions.