VEXAS syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), though distinct in clinical manifestations, share overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms, including systemic inflammation, protein misfolding, and vascular dysfunction. VEXAS syndrome, a rare autoinflammatory disorder characterized by somatic UBA1 mutations, systemic inflammation, and hematologic abnormalities, presents primarily in older males. Meanwhile, AD, the leading cause of dementia, involves progressive neurodegeneration driven by amyloid-beta plaques, tau tangles, and chronic neuroinflammation. This article explores potential connections between the two conditions, focusing on inflammation, neurovascular changes and cellular stress. Systemic inflammation observed in VEXAS syndrome may potentiate neuroinflammatory processes in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), as circulating proinflammatory cytokines have the capacity to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB), thereby inducing glial activation and promoting neuroinflammation. Additionally, coexisting vascular dysfunctions characteristic of both conditions may synergistically contribute to accelerated cognitive decline. Both conditions involve disruption of the ubiquitin–proteasome system, with UBA1 mutations being specific to VEXAS. Given the established role of UBA1 in maintaining neuronal homeostasis, investigating the overlapping and distinct molecular mechanisms may provide valuable insights into their pathophysiology. The review underscores the need for further research to elucidate these links and improve therapeutic strategies, especially for individuals affected by both disorders.

Introduction and Purpose. Diabetes, characterized by hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin production or action, leads to significant complications like diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic foot syndrome (DFS). Current treatments manage symptoms but do not fully address disease progression. Stem cells, with their regenerative potential and immunomodulatory properties, represent a promising avenue for treating diabetes and its complications. This study explores the use of stem cell therapy in managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes, DR, and DFS. Material and Method. The study reviewed existing literature on the application of stem cells in diabetes treatment. More than 30 articles addressing these issues were analyzed. They were found using the PubMed search engine, and the time frame of these publications covered the last 20 years. Results. Stem cells demonstrated significant potential in diabetes management. For type 1 diabetes, MSCs reduced inflammation, preserved pancreatic islet function, and decreased insulin requirements without major adverse effects. Pluripotent stem cells showed promise in islet transplantation, achieving stable glycemic control in clinical trials. In type 2 diabetes, stem cell therapy improved insulin sensitivity and reduced insulin dependency, with evidence of β-cell regeneration. Complications like diabetic foot ulcers and retinopathy also responded positively to stem cell treatments. MSCs improved wound healing by enhancing tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, while retinal therapies showed promise in slowing disease progression and repairing damaged vasculature. Conclusions. Stem cell therapies offer a promising approach for diabetes and its complications, particularly for regenerative applications in DR and DFS. While initial results are encouraging, further large-scale studies are needed to optimize protocols, assess long-term safety, and establish standardized clinical applications.

Introduction and objective: A plant-based diet is being adopted by an increasing number of people worldwide. Its health benefits have been described in numerous scientific studies. Unfortunately, an improperly balanced diet that excludes animal-derived products can, through various mechanisms, lead to deficiencies and disruptions in the functioning of many systems in the body. This review paper aims to present and summarize the findings and current literature on the impact of a plant-based diet on the menstrual cycle and female fertility. Brief description of the state of knowledge: There is insufficient research on how minerals and vitamins influence the biochemical processes of the menstrual cycle and related symptoms. While nutrient deficiencies in plant-based diets are widely discussed, most studies focus on general health rather than the reproductive system, which is crucial for hormonal balance and fertility. This highlights the need for more research to improve our understanding of the female reproductive and endocrine systems and ensure better care for women. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar with search terms like "impact of plant-based diet", "menstrual cycle disorders", "causes of female infertility", "deficiencies in vegans and vegetarians" and related variations. Articles published within the last five years were prioritized. Conclusions: A properly followed plant-based diet, supported by supplementation, has a positive effect on the female reproductive system, without causing menstrual cycle disorders or infertility. Unfortunately, the more exclusions present in the diet, the more likely it is to cause deficiencies in minerals and vitamins. Inadequate levels of these nutrients can lead to abnormalities in the female reproductive system, both in laboratory tests and in symptoms experienced by women.

Introduction. The gut-brain axis is considered to be a crucial component of mental health, significantly influenced by the gut microbiota. This axis operates through neural (vagal nerve), hormonal (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis), and immune pathways. Key mechanisms include microbial production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid, modulation of inflammatory responses and metabolic pathways involving short-chain fatty acids. Dysbiosis - a microbial imbalance - is associated with increased inflammation and neurotransmitter disruptions, both contributing to depressive symptoms.Material and methods. The search strategy was centered on gathering high-quality articles focusing on the gut-brain axis and its implications for mental health, particularly depression. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched using keywords such as "gut-brain axis," "microbiota and mental health," "depression and gut microbiome," "gut neurotransmitters," "probiotics," and "inflammation and mood disorders." Studies were selected with a focus on research published mainly within the last two years.Results. Potential interventions, such as administration of probiotics, prebiotics, dietary modifications, and innovative therapies like fecal microbiota transplantation and vagus nerve stimulation intend to restore the gut microbiota equilibrium.Conclusions. Despite the limitations of current research, such as reliance on animal models, small human sample sizes, and methodological inconsistencies, expanding these studies remains highly valuable. Conducting large-scale human trials with standardized protocols and deeper exploring the interactions of specific microbial species could create a foundation for new approaches to supporting the treatment of depression effectively.

Background: Epilepsy is the most common chronic neurological disorder in children and often affects mental health, quality of life, and various social aspects of daily living. It is essential to focus not only on seizure control but also on providing psychological and psychiatric support.Aim of the Study: This review aims to characterize the mental health challenges faced by children with epilepsy and the difficulties experienced by their families. It is crucial to draw the attention of healthcare professionals and society to the complex issues these patients and their families encounter.Material and Methods: We conducted electronic searches on PubMed, Google Scholar, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) databases, which served as the primary sources of literature for this review.Results: Pediatric patients with epilepsy are at increased risk of developing mental health disorders and behavioral issues. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) occur more frequently in this group compared to the general population. These children are also at higher risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Most children do not receive adequate mental health support, and when it is available, it is often insufficient. The condition affects not only the patient's mental health but also the well-being of the entire family, contributing to stress and stigma.Discussion: Research highlights a strong association between epilepsy and mental health disorders such as depression and ADHD, yet access to appropriate psychological and psychiatric care remains limited. This complex issue requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes medical treatment as well as social support. Future research should focus on interventions that enhance mental health and improve the quality of life for both patients and their families.Conclusions: Mental health disorders are common among pediatric epilepsy patients, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care. Early diagnosis, effective treatment, and support for both patients and their families are crucial.

Introduction and objective: Periodontitis (PD) is caused by dysbiosis of the oral microbiome (OMB). The prevalence of PD is increased in RA patients. Both conditions have the ability to activate common inflammatory pathways. The OMB shift contributes to more severe course of PD and RA. This paper aims to summarize the impact of OMB on chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of PD and RA. Description of the state of knowledge: The OMB can influence chronic inflammation and protein citrullination. The presence of antibodies against citrullinated peptides (ACPA) correlates with an increased incidence and severity of periodontitis. While numerous studies have reported a relationship between the OMB, PD and RA, the role of specific bacteria in RA remains unclear. Methodology: A literature review was conducted using two databases - PubMed and Google Scholar - with search terms such as "oral microbiome”, “rheumatoid arthritis", "periodontal health”, “oral microbiota”, “periodontal disease”. Articles published within the last eight years were prioritized. Conclusions: PD is more prevalent and severe particularly in ACPA-positive RA patients. Alterations in OMB are associated with systemic inflammation, contributing to RA progression. and worsening periodontal conditions. Periodontal treatment shows a potential to reduce RA activity, emphasizing the importance of dental care in RA. Anti-inflammatory treatments may restore oral homeostasis. Targeting the OMB offers a potential for managing RA and PD. Further research is needed to establish guidelines for personalized therapies and prophylaxis.