Non-bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) remain a critically understudied domain within urology and infectious disease, overshadowed by the well-characterized bacterial paradigm despite their significant clinical impact. This review provides an exhaustive analysis of non-bacterial UTIs, encompassing viral (e.g., adenovirus, BK virus), fungal (e.g., Candida spp.), parasitic (e.g., Schistosoma haematobium), and non-infectious etiologies (e.g., interstitial cystitis, chemical irritants, autoimmune conditions). These conditions often evade conventional diagnostics, leading to misdiagnosis, inappropriate antibiotic use, and chronic patient suffering. We explore the pivotal roles of the urinary microbiome and immune dysregulation, integrating cutting-edge research on dysbiosis, neuroimmune interactions, and environmental triggers. Diagnostic challenges are dissected alongside innovative solutions, including metagenomics, AI-driven tools, and novel biomarkers. Therapeutically, we propose a multifaceted approach – pathogen-specific treatments, immunomodulation, microbiome restoration, and patient-centered strategies supported by emerging modalities like nanoparticle drug delivery and dietary interventions. Enhanced clinician awareness and standardized protocols are advocated to combat antimicrobial resistance and improve outcomes. This expansive review, enriched with multidisciplinary insights and forward-thinking proposals, seeks to galvanize global research efforts to address the complexities of non-bacterial UTIs comprehensively.
Atherosclerosis, a major cardiovascular disease, is characterized by the accumulation of fatty streaks and plaques in arterial walls, driven by factors such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid buildup. This review explores the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants as a promising option for preventing and managing atherosclerosis, emphasizing their bioactive compounds that target key disease mechanisms. Plants such as Perovskia abrotanoides, rich in phenolic compounds and essential oils, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that mitigate oxidative stress and vascular damage. Similarly, widely accessible plants like ginger, turmeric, and garlic offer cardiovascular benefits by reducing inflammation and preventing arterial fat accumulation when incorporated into daily diets. This article extends its focus to additional medicinal plants, including Gundelia tournefortii, Pulicaria gnaphalodes, Valeriana officinalis, Sesamum indicum, Allium ampeloprasum, and Origanum majorana, which demonstrate significant anti-atherosclerotic effects. These plants contribute through diverse mechanisms, such as improving lipid profiles, inhibiting LDL oxidation, enhancing endothelial function, and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines. The review highlights the limitations of synthetic drugs, including side effects and costs, underscoring the resurgence of interest in natural remedies. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern research, this study elucidates the molecular pathways—such as modulation of lipid metabolism and reduction of foam cell formation—through which these plants act. While preliminary findings are promising, further in vivo studies are needed to validate efficacy and safety. This comprehensive analysis aims to develop strategies for leveraging medicinal plants as viable, accessible options for atherosclerosis management, promoting cardiovascular health and overall wellness.
Insects are emerging as vital tools in medical science, blending sustainability with efficacy across therapeutic, diagnostic, and pharmaceutical realms. This review explores their historical and current uses, such as maggot debridement therapy (MDT) with Lucilia sericata for chronic wounds, venom-derived drugs from bees and wasps, and chitin-based biomaterials from insect exoskeletons. MDT removes necrotic tissue and fights resistant bacteria, while venom peptides like melittin offer antimicrobial and anticancer benefits. Chitin enhances drug delivery and tissue repair, showcasing insects’ diverse potential. Globally, silkworm peptides in Asia treat diabetes, African termite remedies address respiratory issues, and Western MDT and venom research thrive. Challenges like regulatory delays and public aversion persist, yet future prospects are bright. Bioengineering could scale insect compounds, venom variability might enable personalized medicine, and insect-inspired nanotechnology could advance diagnostics. Entomophagy may prevent chronic diseases through nutrition. These innovations merge tradition with technology, demanding interdisciplinary research. Ethical issues, including insect welfare and environmental sustainability, require attention. This review champions insects’ integration into global healthcare, urging rigorous study and acceptance.
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