Lenah Binmahfouz - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Lenah Binmahfouz
Molecules
Nephrotoxicity is a serious complication that limits the clinical use of gentamicin (GEN). Parthe... more Nephrotoxicity is a serious complication that limits the clinical use of gentamicin (GEN). Parthenolide (PTL) is a sesquiterpene lactone derived from feverfew with various therapeutic benefits. However, PTL possesses low oral bioavailability. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic protective effects of PTL-phytosomes against GEN-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The PTL was prepared as phytosomes to improve the pharmacological properties with a particle size of 407.4 nm, and surface morphology showed oval particles with multiple edges. Rats were divided into six groups: control, nano-formulation plain vehicle, PTL-phytosomes (10 mg/kg), GEN (100 mg/kg), GEN + PTL-phytosomes (5 mg/kg), and GEN + PTL-phytosomes (10 mg/kg). The administration of PTL-phytosomes alleviated GEN-induced impairment in kidney functions and histopathological damage, and decreased kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). The anti-oxidative effect of PTL-phytosomes was demonstrated by the reduced malondialdehyde (...
Frontiers in Physiology
As both a sensor of extracellular calcium (Ca2+o) concentration and a key controller of Ca2+o hom... more As both a sensor of extracellular calcium (Ca2+o) concentration and a key controller of Ca2+o homeostasis, one of the most interesting properties of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) is its sensitivity to, and modulation by, ions and small ligands other than Ca2+. There is emerging evidence that extracellular phosphate can act as a partial, non-competitive CaR antagonist to modulate parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion, thus permitting the CaR to integrate mineral homeostasis more broadly. Interestingly, phosphorylation of certain intracellular CaR residues can also inhibit CaR responsiveness. Thus, negatively charged phosphate can decrease CaR activity both extracellularly (via association with arginine) and intracellularly (via covalent phosphorylation).
Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal
Nutrients
Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae), a popular tropical fruit for its juiciness and sweetness, is... more Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae), a popular tropical fruit for its juiciness and sweetness, is an opulent fountain of prenylated and oxygenated xanthones with a vast array of bio-activities. Garcinone E (GE), a xanthone derivative reported from G. mangostana, possesses cytotoxic and aromatase inhibitory activities. The present research endeavors to investigate the hepato-protection efficaciousness of GE on concanavalin-A (Con-A)-instigated hepatitis. Results showed that GE pretreating noticeably diminishes both the serum indices (transaminases, ALP, LDH, and γ-GT) and histopathological lesions of the liver. It counteracted neutrophil and CD4+ infiltration into the liver. GE furthered the Nrf2 genetic expression and its antioxidants’ cascade, which resulted in amelioration of Con-A-caused oxidative stress (OS), lipid per-oxidative markers (4-HNE, MDA, PC) reduction, and intensified antioxidants (TAC, SOD, GSH) in the hepatic tissue. Additionally, GE prohibited NF-ĸB (nuclear facto...
International Journal of General Medicine
Background: Like other vaccines, Pfizer BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 v... more Background: Like other vaccines, Pfizer BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 virus infections begins to decline within a few months after the 2 nd dose. On August 12, 2021, the FDA allowed additional Pfizer BioNTch's COVID-19 vaccine dose (3 rd or booster dose) for individuals with weakened immunity. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term adverse reactions (ADRs) of the 2 nd and the 3 rd doses of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Methods: Information for this study was collected by Google Form questionnaire (online survey). The results included responses from 442 people, the majority from Saudi Arabia. Results: The most common local ADRs following the 3 rd dose were injection site pain, injection site hypersensitivity, and axillary lymph node swelling. The most common systemic ADRs were fatigue, muscle pain, bone pain, headache, and fever less than 38ºC. Less common systemic ADRs were shivering, fever more than 38ºC, nasal congestion and rhinorrhea, arrhythmia, cough, abdominal pain, chest tightness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and tachypnea. Rare systemic ADRs were constipation, dizziness and vertigo, lack of concentration, sore throat, excessive hair loss, dysmenorrhea and heavy menstruation, and Bell's palsy. Severe allergic reactions were reported by 2.6% of participants after the 2 nd dose, compared with none after the 3 rd dose. Nasal congestion and runny nose are more frequent after the 3 rd dose. The ADRs of the 2 nd and 3 rd doses were significantly more prevalent in females. 12% of participants reported ADRs lasting more than one week after the 3 rd dose compared to 5% after the 2 nd dose. People ≤ 60 years were more affected by the vaccine ADRs. Conclusion: Most of the ADRs reported after the 3 rd vaccine dose were consistent with the Pfizer vaccine information sheet and similar to the 2 nd dose ADRs.
Plants
Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease among elderly men. Its pharm... more Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease among elderly men. Its pharmacological treatment is still unsatisfactory. 6-Paradol (6-PD) is an active metabolite found in many members of the Zingiberaceae family. It was reported to possess anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study aimed at exploring the potential of 6-PD to inhibit testosterone-induced BPH in rats as well as the probable underlying mechanism. Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups and treated as follows: Group 1 (control group) received vehicles only, Group 2 testosterone only, Groups 3 and 4 received 6-PD (2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg; respectively) and testosterone, and Group 6 received finasteride and testosterone. Results: Daily treatment of animals with 6-PD at the two dose levels of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg significantly ameliorated a testosterone-induced rise in prostate index and weight. This was confirmed by histological examinations of prostatic ti...
Pharmacy Practice
Objective: The purpose of this research is to assess the commitment of participants in Saudi Arab... more Objective: The purpose of this research is to assess the commitment of participants in Saudi Arabia and Egypt towards healthy daily habits, preventive measures, healthy food habits, and beliefs about natural products as an immunostimulants during COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in Saudi Arabia (mainly Riyadh and Jeddah) and Egypt (mainly Cairo). The questionnaire instrument was created based on an extensive literature review on the COVID-19 pandemic, including its spreading and transmission methods, preventive measures, healthy lifestyle, and diets that increase human immunity against viral infections and the use of natural products and drinks. The questionnaire was created by Microsoft 365® office forms, participants were invited through emails and other social media. The questionnaire includes a demographic section (gender, nationality, residency country, city, age, marital status, educational level, employment status, chronic disease history, under anxiety or stress, have a temper or irritable person, were infected/currently infected and in contact to COVID-19 patient) and (23) questions arranged under five domains; Domain I daily habits (4), Domain II keeping preventive measures (4), Domain III healthy eating habits (9), Domain IV for participants currently or previously infected, or in contact with a patient (4) Domain V for assessment of participants' beliefs towards the use of natural products to elevate immunity during COVID-19 pandemic (2), beside 4 choice questions (stimulant drinks, natural drinks, natural products, and zinc-rich food). SPSS® was used to analyze the results using Student' t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD tests. Result: 510 individuals with various demographic characteristics participated in the study. This study revealed that the participants belief in healthy foods, natural drinks (mainly ginger, lemon, and cinnamon), natural products (mainly honey, olive oil, and black seed), healthy habits, and preventive measures as sanitizers, social distance, and exercise. Only 13% of all participants were infected with COVID-19, although 31% of them were in contact with COVID-19 patients, about 93% were under stress, and 22% were with chronic diseases. Participants who are married, not in contact with patients and not previously infected by COVID-19 are more adhered to preventive measures while those previously or currently infected are more committed to healthy lifestyle and diet habits. Qualification level seems to make no significant difference in any domain. 78.6% of the participants beliefs in the benefits of utilizing natural products in preventing infection with corona virus or reducing the period of treatment in case of infection. About 95.7% of the infected persons had no need of hospitalization and about 50% are cured within two weeks of infection. The questionnaire revealed that Nescafe and black tea were the most used stimulant drinks among the participants, particularly the students and who were always under stress. Most of the participants agreed with the utilization of Zn-rich food, particularly Egyptians, which may help in boosting their immunity. Conclusion: Natural products selected in the present study can be used in combination with the existing clinical standards of care that have the potential to serve as prophylactic agents in populations that are at risk to develop COVID-19 infection.
Life
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Nutrients, Apr 30, 2022
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
University of Manchester, 2019
The effect of CaR S875A and CaR S875D mutations on Ca 2+ o-induced Ca 2+ i mobilisation ... 126 5... more The effect of CaR S875A and CaR S875D mutations on Ca 2+ o-induced Ca 2+ i mobilisation ... 126 5.4.4 The effect of CaR T888A and CaR S875A mutations on Ca 2+ o-induced ERK phosphorylation ..
Molecules, 2021
The role of cannabinoid receptors in nephropathy is gaining much attention. This study investigat... more The role of cannabinoid receptors in nephropathy is gaining much attention. This study investigated the effects of two neutral CB1 receptor antagonists, AM6545 and AM4113, on nephropathy associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS was induced in rats by high-fructose high-salt feeding for 12 weeks. AM6545, the peripheral silent antagonist and AM4113, the central neutral antagonist were administered in the last 4 weeks. At the end of study, blood and urine samples were collected for biochemical analyses while the kidneys were excised for histopathological investigation and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) measurement. MetS was associated with deteriorated kidney function as indicated by the elevated proteinuria and albumin excretion rate. Both compounds equally inhibited the elevated proteinuria and albumin excretion rate while having no effect on creatinine clearance and blood pressure. In addition, AM6545 and AM4113 alleviated the observed swelling and inflammatory cel...
Journal of the Endocrine Society, 2021
25-hydroxyvitamin D 1α-hydroxylase (encoded by CYP27B1), which catalyzes the synthesis of 1,25-di... more 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1α-hydroxylase (encoded by CYP27B1), which catalyzes the synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, is subject to negative or positive modulation by extracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+o) depending on the tissue. However, the Ca2+ sensors and underlying mechanisms are unidentified. We tested whether calcium-sensing receptors (CaSRs) mediate Ca2+o-dependent control of 1α-hydroxylase using HEK-293 cells stably expressing the CaSR (HEK-CaSR cells). In HEK-CaSR cells, but not control HEK-293 cells, cotransfected with reporter genes for CYP27B1-Photinus pyralis (firefly) luciferase and control Renilla luciferase, an increase in Ca2+o from 0.5mM to 3.0mM induced a 2- to 3-fold increase in firefly luciferase activity as well as mRNA and protein levels. Surprisingly, firefly luciferase was specifically suppressed at Ca2+o ≥ 5.0mM, demonstrating biphasic Ca2+o control. Both phases were mediated by CaSRs as revealed by positive and negative modulators. However, Ca2+o induced simple monoto...
Pharmaceutics, 2021
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a catastrophic illness of multifactorial etiology, in... more Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a catastrophic illness of multifactorial etiology, involves a rapid upsurge in inflammatory cytokines that leads to hypoxemic respiratory failure. Dexamethasone, a synthetic corticosteroid, mitigates the glucocorticoid-receptor-mediated inflammation and accelerates tissue homeostasis towards disease resolution. To minimize non-target organ side effects arising from frequent and chronic use of dexamethasone, we designed biodegradable, lung-targeted microspheres with sustained release profiles. Dexamethasone-loaded lipopolymeric microspheres of PLGA (Poly Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) and DPPC (Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine) stabilized with vitamin E TPGS (D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate) were prepared by a single emulsion technique that had a mean diameter of 8.83 ± 0.32 μm and were spherical in shape as revealed from electron microscopy imaging. Pharmacokinetic and biodistribution patterns studied in the lungs, liver, and spleen o...
Pharmaceutics, 2021
Excessive architectural re-modeling of tissues in pulmonary fibrosis due to proliferation of myof... more Excessive architectural re-modeling of tissues in pulmonary fibrosis due to proliferation of myofibroblasts and deposition of extracellular matrix adversely affects the elasticity of the alveoli and lung function. Progressively destructive chronic inflammatory disease, therefore, necessitates safe and effective non-invasive airway delivery that can reach deep alveoli, restore the surfactant function and reduce oxidative stress. We designed an endogenous surfactant-based liposomal delivery system of naringin to be delivered as an aerosol that supports pulmonary mechanics for the management of pulmonary fibrosis. Phosphatidylcholine-based liposomes showed 91.5 ± 2.4% encapsulation of naringin, with a mean size of 171.4 ± 5.8 nm and zeta potential of −15.5 ± 1.3 mV. Liposomes with the unilamellar structure were found to be spherical and homogeneous in shape using electron microscope imaging. The formulation showed surface tension of 32.6 ± 0.96 mN/m and was able to maintain airway pate...
Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences, 2020
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread from China to the world since December 2019. In additio... more Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread from China to the world since December 2019. In addition to being a pandemic with mortality risk, COVID-19 affected global mental health. This study is the first to address the mental health aspects among Saudi pharmacy students during this pandemic and to explore the potential effect on their academic development. An online cross-sectional survey was distributed among 677 students from the Faculty of Pharmacy at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Participants were assessed with demographic information, the validated Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale, the validated Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), and multiple stress factors and motivators that might influence their academic development. Collected data were statistically analyzed. Results demonstrated that 32% of the participants were experiencing mild anxiety, 22% moderate anxiety, and 19% severe anxiety. Statistical significance in anxiety level was see...
Carcinogenesis, 1999
An individual difference in the susceptibility to chemical carcinogens is one of the most importa... more An individual difference in the susceptibility to chemical carcinogens is one of the most important factors in the estimate of risk of human cancer. Recently, it has been reported that genetic risk for tobacco-related cancers is associated with polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genes in terms of genotype frequencies and cigarette smoking dose. In this study, we investigated the inter-individual difference in genetically determined susceptibility to oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in relation to cigarette smoking dose in a Japanese population. DNA samples were obtained from both patients and controls. We identified individuals at high risk genetically for oral SCC in terms of polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genes. This study then compared the estimated total number of cigarettes smoked by patients with those smoked by controls. In this case-control study, we estimated the odds ratios of susceptible to non-susceptible individuals. CYP1A1 genotype C and GSTM1 deficiency were frequently found among oral SCC patients. Patients with genotype C and GSTM1 deficiency contracted carcinoma after fewer cigarettes than those with other genotypes. Individuals with these two genotypes were at remarkably high risk at a low dose level of cigarette smoking. Individual differences in polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genes is one important factor in the estimate of risk of oral SCC at a low dose level of cigarette smoking.
Introduction: Osteoporosis associated with β-thalassemia major (β-Thal) has emerged as a signific... more Introduction: Osteoporosis associated with β-thalassemia major (β-Thal) has emerged as a significant problem due to increasing life expectancy in those patients. Aim: The aim of the current research was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of alendronate in β-Thal ANALYSIS 24(105), September October, 2020 Medical Science ISSN 2321–7359 EISSN 2321–7367
Molecular Pharmacology, 2019
The calcium-sensing receptor (CaS) is the principal controller of extracellular calcium (Ca 21 o)... more The calcium-sensing receptor (CaS) is the principal controller of extracellular calcium (Ca 21 o) homeostasis and is inhibited in vitro and in vivo by protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated phosphorylation at CaS T888. However, PKC inhibition enhances signaling even in CaSs lacking Thr-888, suggesting that an additional inhibitory site exists. An apparently equivalent PKC regulatory site in metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (Ser-839) aligns not with CaS T888 but instead with CaS S875 , which was not previously considered to be a PKC site. CaS S875A (nonphosphorylatable) exhibited significantly enhanced Ca 21 o sensitivity of both intracellular Ca 21 mobilization and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation, whereas the phosphomimetic CaS S875D mutant exhibited a loss of function. The CaS S875A/T888A double mutant exhibited even greater Ca 21 o sensitivity than CaS T888A alone, a response no longer enhanced by PKC inhibition. Finally, when expressed in CaS lacking its extracellular domain, the CaS S875A/T888A double mutation elicited maximal activation even under control conditions, but remained sensitive to negative allosteric modulation [N-(2-hydroxy-3-(2-cyano-3-chlorophenoxy)propyl)-1,1-dimethyl-2-(2-nephthyl)ethylamine] or Ca 21 o removal. Therefore, we have now identified CaS S875 as the missing PKC phosphorylation site that, together with CaS T888 , shapes the CaS signaling that underpins Ca 21 o homeostasis. Together with the inactive form of the CaS extracellular domain, these sites attenuate Ca 21 o sensitivity to attain appropriate physiologic Ca 21 o sensing. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Serine-875 represents the missing inhibitory PKC phosphorlyation site in CaS that in tandem with Thr-888 controls receptor activity. s This article has supplemental material available at molpharm.aspetjournals.org.
Molecules
Nephrotoxicity is a serious complication that limits the clinical use of gentamicin (GEN). Parthe... more Nephrotoxicity is a serious complication that limits the clinical use of gentamicin (GEN). Parthenolide (PTL) is a sesquiterpene lactone derived from feverfew with various therapeutic benefits. However, PTL possesses low oral bioavailability. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic protective effects of PTL-phytosomes against GEN-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The PTL was prepared as phytosomes to improve the pharmacological properties with a particle size of 407.4 nm, and surface morphology showed oval particles with multiple edges. Rats were divided into six groups: control, nano-formulation plain vehicle, PTL-phytosomes (10 mg/kg), GEN (100 mg/kg), GEN + PTL-phytosomes (5 mg/kg), and GEN + PTL-phytosomes (10 mg/kg). The administration of PTL-phytosomes alleviated GEN-induced impairment in kidney functions and histopathological damage, and decreased kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). The anti-oxidative effect of PTL-phytosomes was demonstrated by the reduced malondialdehyde (...
Frontiers in Physiology
As both a sensor of extracellular calcium (Ca2+o) concentration and a key controller of Ca2+o hom... more As both a sensor of extracellular calcium (Ca2+o) concentration and a key controller of Ca2+o homeostasis, one of the most interesting properties of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) is its sensitivity to, and modulation by, ions and small ligands other than Ca2+. There is emerging evidence that extracellular phosphate can act as a partial, non-competitive CaR antagonist to modulate parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion, thus permitting the CaR to integrate mineral homeostasis more broadly. Interestingly, phosphorylation of certain intracellular CaR residues can also inhibit CaR responsiveness. Thus, negatively charged phosphate can decrease CaR activity both extracellularly (via association with arginine) and intracellularly (via covalent phosphorylation).
Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal
Nutrients
Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae), a popular tropical fruit for its juiciness and sweetness, is... more Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae), a popular tropical fruit for its juiciness and sweetness, is an opulent fountain of prenylated and oxygenated xanthones with a vast array of bio-activities. Garcinone E (GE), a xanthone derivative reported from G. mangostana, possesses cytotoxic and aromatase inhibitory activities. The present research endeavors to investigate the hepato-protection efficaciousness of GE on concanavalin-A (Con-A)-instigated hepatitis. Results showed that GE pretreating noticeably diminishes both the serum indices (transaminases, ALP, LDH, and γ-GT) and histopathological lesions of the liver. It counteracted neutrophil and CD4+ infiltration into the liver. GE furthered the Nrf2 genetic expression and its antioxidants’ cascade, which resulted in amelioration of Con-A-caused oxidative stress (OS), lipid per-oxidative markers (4-HNE, MDA, PC) reduction, and intensified antioxidants (TAC, SOD, GSH) in the hepatic tissue. Additionally, GE prohibited NF-ĸB (nuclear facto...
International Journal of General Medicine
Background: Like other vaccines, Pfizer BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 v... more Background: Like other vaccines, Pfizer BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 virus infections begins to decline within a few months after the 2 nd dose. On August 12, 2021, the FDA allowed additional Pfizer BioNTch's COVID-19 vaccine dose (3 rd or booster dose) for individuals with weakened immunity. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term adverse reactions (ADRs) of the 2 nd and the 3 rd doses of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Methods: Information for this study was collected by Google Form questionnaire (online survey). The results included responses from 442 people, the majority from Saudi Arabia. Results: The most common local ADRs following the 3 rd dose were injection site pain, injection site hypersensitivity, and axillary lymph node swelling. The most common systemic ADRs were fatigue, muscle pain, bone pain, headache, and fever less than 38ºC. Less common systemic ADRs were shivering, fever more than 38ºC, nasal congestion and rhinorrhea, arrhythmia, cough, abdominal pain, chest tightness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and tachypnea. Rare systemic ADRs were constipation, dizziness and vertigo, lack of concentration, sore throat, excessive hair loss, dysmenorrhea and heavy menstruation, and Bell's palsy. Severe allergic reactions were reported by 2.6% of participants after the 2 nd dose, compared with none after the 3 rd dose. Nasal congestion and runny nose are more frequent after the 3 rd dose. The ADRs of the 2 nd and 3 rd doses were significantly more prevalent in females. 12% of participants reported ADRs lasting more than one week after the 3 rd dose compared to 5% after the 2 nd dose. People ≤ 60 years were more affected by the vaccine ADRs. Conclusion: Most of the ADRs reported after the 3 rd vaccine dose were consistent with the Pfizer vaccine information sheet and similar to the 2 nd dose ADRs.
Plants
Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease among elderly men. Its pharm... more Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease among elderly men. Its pharmacological treatment is still unsatisfactory. 6-Paradol (6-PD) is an active metabolite found in many members of the Zingiberaceae family. It was reported to possess anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study aimed at exploring the potential of 6-PD to inhibit testosterone-induced BPH in rats as well as the probable underlying mechanism. Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups and treated as follows: Group 1 (control group) received vehicles only, Group 2 testosterone only, Groups 3 and 4 received 6-PD (2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg; respectively) and testosterone, and Group 6 received finasteride and testosterone. Results: Daily treatment of animals with 6-PD at the two dose levels of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg significantly ameliorated a testosterone-induced rise in prostate index and weight. This was confirmed by histological examinations of prostatic ti...
Pharmacy Practice
Objective: The purpose of this research is to assess the commitment of participants in Saudi Arab... more Objective: The purpose of this research is to assess the commitment of participants in Saudi Arabia and Egypt towards healthy daily habits, preventive measures, healthy food habits, and beliefs about natural products as an immunostimulants during COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in Saudi Arabia (mainly Riyadh and Jeddah) and Egypt (mainly Cairo). The questionnaire instrument was created based on an extensive literature review on the COVID-19 pandemic, including its spreading and transmission methods, preventive measures, healthy lifestyle, and diets that increase human immunity against viral infections and the use of natural products and drinks. The questionnaire was created by Microsoft 365® office forms, participants were invited through emails and other social media. The questionnaire includes a demographic section (gender, nationality, residency country, city, age, marital status, educational level, employment status, chronic disease history, under anxiety or stress, have a temper or irritable person, were infected/currently infected and in contact to COVID-19 patient) and (23) questions arranged under five domains; Domain I daily habits (4), Domain II keeping preventive measures (4), Domain III healthy eating habits (9), Domain IV for participants currently or previously infected, or in contact with a patient (4) Domain V for assessment of participants' beliefs towards the use of natural products to elevate immunity during COVID-19 pandemic (2), beside 4 choice questions (stimulant drinks, natural drinks, natural products, and zinc-rich food). SPSS® was used to analyze the results using Student' t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD tests. Result: 510 individuals with various demographic characteristics participated in the study. This study revealed that the participants belief in healthy foods, natural drinks (mainly ginger, lemon, and cinnamon), natural products (mainly honey, olive oil, and black seed), healthy habits, and preventive measures as sanitizers, social distance, and exercise. Only 13% of all participants were infected with COVID-19, although 31% of them were in contact with COVID-19 patients, about 93% were under stress, and 22% were with chronic diseases. Participants who are married, not in contact with patients and not previously infected by COVID-19 are more adhered to preventive measures while those previously or currently infected are more committed to healthy lifestyle and diet habits. Qualification level seems to make no significant difference in any domain. 78.6% of the participants beliefs in the benefits of utilizing natural products in preventing infection with corona virus or reducing the period of treatment in case of infection. About 95.7% of the infected persons had no need of hospitalization and about 50% are cured within two weeks of infection. The questionnaire revealed that Nescafe and black tea were the most used stimulant drinks among the participants, particularly the students and who were always under stress. Most of the participants agreed with the utilization of Zn-rich food, particularly Egyptians, which may help in boosting their immunity. Conclusion: Natural products selected in the present study can be used in combination with the existing clinical standards of care that have the potential to serve as prophylactic agents in populations that are at risk to develop COVID-19 infection.
Life
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Nutrients, Apr 30, 2022
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
University of Manchester, 2019
The effect of CaR S875A and CaR S875D mutations on Ca 2+ o-induced Ca 2+ i mobilisation ... 126 5... more The effect of CaR S875A and CaR S875D mutations on Ca 2+ o-induced Ca 2+ i mobilisation ... 126 5.4.4 The effect of CaR T888A and CaR S875A mutations on Ca 2+ o-induced ERK phosphorylation ..
Molecules, 2021
The role of cannabinoid receptors in nephropathy is gaining much attention. This study investigat... more The role of cannabinoid receptors in nephropathy is gaining much attention. This study investigated the effects of two neutral CB1 receptor antagonists, AM6545 and AM4113, on nephropathy associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS was induced in rats by high-fructose high-salt feeding for 12 weeks. AM6545, the peripheral silent antagonist and AM4113, the central neutral antagonist were administered in the last 4 weeks. At the end of study, blood and urine samples were collected for biochemical analyses while the kidneys were excised for histopathological investigation and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) measurement. MetS was associated with deteriorated kidney function as indicated by the elevated proteinuria and albumin excretion rate. Both compounds equally inhibited the elevated proteinuria and albumin excretion rate while having no effect on creatinine clearance and blood pressure. In addition, AM6545 and AM4113 alleviated the observed swelling and inflammatory cel...
Journal of the Endocrine Society, 2021
25-hydroxyvitamin D 1α-hydroxylase (encoded by CYP27B1), which catalyzes the synthesis of 1,25-di... more 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1α-hydroxylase (encoded by CYP27B1), which catalyzes the synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, is subject to negative or positive modulation by extracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+o) depending on the tissue. However, the Ca2+ sensors and underlying mechanisms are unidentified. We tested whether calcium-sensing receptors (CaSRs) mediate Ca2+o-dependent control of 1α-hydroxylase using HEK-293 cells stably expressing the CaSR (HEK-CaSR cells). In HEK-CaSR cells, but not control HEK-293 cells, cotransfected with reporter genes for CYP27B1-Photinus pyralis (firefly) luciferase and control Renilla luciferase, an increase in Ca2+o from 0.5mM to 3.0mM induced a 2- to 3-fold increase in firefly luciferase activity as well as mRNA and protein levels. Surprisingly, firefly luciferase was specifically suppressed at Ca2+o ≥ 5.0mM, demonstrating biphasic Ca2+o control. Both phases were mediated by CaSRs as revealed by positive and negative modulators. However, Ca2+o induced simple monoto...
Pharmaceutics, 2021
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a catastrophic illness of multifactorial etiology, in... more Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a catastrophic illness of multifactorial etiology, involves a rapid upsurge in inflammatory cytokines that leads to hypoxemic respiratory failure. Dexamethasone, a synthetic corticosteroid, mitigates the glucocorticoid-receptor-mediated inflammation and accelerates tissue homeostasis towards disease resolution. To minimize non-target organ side effects arising from frequent and chronic use of dexamethasone, we designed biodegradable, lung-targeted microspheres with sustained release profiles. Dexamethasone-loaded lipopolymeric microspheres of PLGA (Poly Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) and DPPC (Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine) stabilized with vitamin E TPGS (D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate) were prepared by a single emulsion technique that had a mean diameter of 8.83 ± 0.32 μm and were spherical in shape as revealed from electron microscopy imaging. Pharmacokinetic and biodistribution patterns studied in the lungs, liver, and spleen o...
Pharmaceutics, 2021
Excessive architectural re-modeling of tissues in pulmonary fibrosis due to proliferation of myof... more Excessive architectural re-modeling of tissues in pulmonary fibrosis due to proliferation of myofibroblasts and deposition of extracellular matrix adversely affects the elasticity of the alveoli and lung function. Progressively destructive chronic inflammatory disease, therefore, necessitates safe and effective non-invasive airway delivery that can reach deep alveoli, restore the surfactant function and reduce oxidative stress. We designed an endogenous surfactant-based liposomal delivery system of naringin to be delivered as an aerosol that supports pulmonary mechanics for the management of pulmonary fibrosis. Phosphatidylcholine-based liposomes showed 91.5 ± 2.4% encapsulation of naringin, with a mean size of 171.4 ± 5.8 nm and zeta potential of −15.5 ± 1.3 mV. Liposomes with the unilamellar structure were found to be spherical and homogeneous in shape using electron microscope imaging. The formulation showed surface tension of 32.6 ± 0.96 mN/m and was able to maintain airway pate...
Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences, 2020
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread from China to the world since December 2019. In additio... more Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread from China to the world since December 2019. In addition to being a pandemic with mortality risk, COVID-19 affected global mental health. This study is the first to address the mental health aspects among Saudi pharmacy students during this pandemic and to explore the potential effect on their academic development. An online cross-sectional survey was distributed among 677 students from the Faculty of Pharmacy at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Participants were assessed with demographic information, the validated Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale, the validated Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), and multiple stress factors and motivators that might influence their academic development. Collected data were statistically analyzed. Results demonstrated that 32% of the participants were experiencing mild anxiety, 22% moderate anxiety, and 19% severe anxiety. Statistical significance in anxiety level was see...
Carcinogenesis, 1999
An individual difference in the susceptibility to chemical carcinogens is one of the most importa... more An individual difference in the susceptibility to chemical carcinogens is one of the most important factors in the estimate of risk of human cancer. Recently, it has been reported that genetic risk for tobacco-related cancers is associated with polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genes in terms of genotype frequencies and cigarette smoking dose. In this study, we investigated the inter-individual difference in genetically determined susceptibility to oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in relation to cigarette smoking dose in a Japanese population. DNA samples were obtained from both patients and controls. We identified individuals at high risk genetically for oral SCC in terms of polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genes. This study then compared the estimated total number of cigarettes smoked by patients with those smoked by controls. In this case-control study, we estimated the odds ratios of susceptible to non-susceptible individuals. CYP1A1 genotype C and GSTM1 deficiency were frequently found among oral SCC patients. Patients with genotype C and GSTM1 deficiency contracted carcinoma after fewer cigarettes than those with other genotypes. Individuals with these two genotypes were at remarkably high risk at a low dose level of cigarette smoking. Individual differences in polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genes is one important factor in the estimate of risk of oral SCC at a low dose level of cigarette smoking.
Introduction: Osteoporosis associated with β-thalassemia major (β-Thal) has emerged as a signific... more Introduction: Osteoporosis associated with β-thalassemia major (β-Thal) has emerged as a significant problem due to increasing life expectancy in those patients. Aim: The aim of the current research was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of alendronate in β-Thal ANALYSIS 24(105), September October, 2020 Medical Science ISSN 2321–7359 EISSN 2321–7367
Molecular Pharmacology, 2019
The calcium-sensing receptor (CaS) is the principal controller of extracellular calcium (Ca 21 o)... more The calcium-sensing receptor (CaS) is the principal controller of extracellular calcium (Ca 21 o) homeostasis and is inhibited in vitro and in vivo by protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated phosphorylation at CaS T888. However, PKC inhibition enhances signaling even in CaSs lacking Thr-888, suggesting that an additional inhibitory site exists. An apparently equivalent PKC regulatory site in metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (Ser-839) aligns not with CaS T888 but instead with CaS S875 , which was not previously considered to be a PKC site. CaS S875A (nonphosphorylatable) exhibited significantly enhanced Ca 21 o sensitivity of both intracellular Ca 21 mobilization and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation, whereas the phosphomimetic CaS S875D mutant exhibited a loss of function. The CaS S875A/T888A double mutant exhibited even greater Ca 21 o sensitivity than CaS T888A alone, a response no longer enhanced by PKC inhibition. Finally, when expressed in CaS lacking its extracellular domain, the CaS S875A/T888A double mutation elicited maximal activation even under control conditions, but remained sensitive to negative allosteric modulation [N-(2-hydroxy-3-(2-cyano-3-chlorophenoxy)propyl)-1,1-dimethyl-2-(2-nephthyl)ethylamine] or Ca 21 o removal. Therefore, we have now identified CaS S875 as the missing PKC phosphorylation site that, together with CaS T888 , shapes the CaS signaling that underpins Ca 21 o homeostasis. Together with the inactive form of the CaS extracellular domain, these sites attenuate Ca 21 o sensitivity to attain appropriate physiologic Ca 21 o sensing. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Serine-875 represents the missing inhibitory PKC phosphorlyation site in CaS that in tandem with Thr-888 controls receptor activity. s This article has supplemental material available at molpharm.aspetjournals.org.