{"title":"The Imiquimod Flare: A Unique Case Report of Generalized Lymphadenopathy with Topical Imiquimod for HPV 16-Induced Vulval High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion.","authors":"Anusha Devalla, Deepthi Konda, Abhimanyu Sharma, Naina Kumar, Krishna Ramavath, Aparna Setty","doi":"10.2174/0118715265405855250929051656","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265405855250929051656","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Concomitant vulval high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) have rarely been associated in a young woman and should prompt investigation for high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Conservative treatment strategies for vulval HSIL typically range from skinning vulvectomy to topical applications of immunomodulator creams. Imiquimod 5% topical application has been associated with local side effects, including itching and burning. Systemic side effects are extremely rare. The authors report a unique case of generalized lymphadenopathy following topical application of imiquimod 5%.</p><p><strong>Case presentation: </strong>A 32-year-old, nulligravida woman of Asian ethnicity presented with subfertility. Incidentally, her general examination showed the presence of raised, multifocal, maculopapular lesions (Bowenoid papulosis) with biopsy showing usual-type vulval high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). After a brief application of topical imiquimod 5%, she developed sudden, tender generalized lymphadenopathy. Aspiration cytology showed caseation necrosis, and she was hence started on anti-tubercular therapy. Resolution of lymphadenopathy was observed at the one-month follow-up.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>This is the first reported case of acute, tender generalized lymphadenopathy with topical imiquimod in a patient with CIN and vulval HSIL. The underlying mechanism involves alteration of cell-mediated immunity, and the resultant likely functional maturation of epidermal Langerhans cells in vivo is hypothesized. This forms an alternative to surgery, as it is a convenient, self-administered modality that does not affect psychosexual health. Additionally, it has been implicated in HPV virus clearance, unlike surgery, and was hence recommended in this case.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This report underscores this rare phenomenon that can pose a significant therapeutic challenge to clinicians, necessitating regular and long-term follow-up.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265405855"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145357556","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Alimuddin Ali, Mufidah Murdifin, Sultan Sudirman, Siti Hardiyanti Harahap, Rina Agustina, Abdul Rahim, Hamdayani Lance Abidin, Herlina Rante, Gemini Alam
{"title":"Antioxidant Metabolite Production from Endophytic Fungi of <i>Mezzetia parviflora</i> Becc.: A Potential Natural Source of Antioxidants.","authors":"Alimuddin Ali, Mufidah Murdifin, Sultan Sudirman, Siti Hardiyanti Harahap, Rina Agustina, Abdul Rahim, Hamdayani Lance Abidin, Herlina Rante, Gemini Alam","doi":"10.2174/0118715265340096250429055633","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265340096250429055633","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Ongkea (<i>Mezzetia parviflora</i> Becc.) is a plant species employed as the traditional medicine by the Buton district people in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. This traditional use suggests the plant's potential pharmacological activity, which may be associated with its endophytic fungi. Endophytic fungi, living symbiotically within plant tissues, are known to produce bioactive compounds that often mirror or enhance the host plant's therapeutic potential. In this study, we investigated the in vitro antioxidant activities of endophytic fungi, optimized the fermentation conditions for maximum production of bioactive metabolites, and compared the intracellular and extracellular antioxidant activities of the metabolites to gain a comprehensive understanding of their potential applications.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The related genera of endophytic fungi were determined by morphological and molecular analyses of the 18S rRNA gene. The antioxidant potential was assessed using methods involving DPPH free radical scavenging, hydrogen peroxide scavenging, and reducing power assays. Metabolite production was optimized by varying carbon and nitrogen sources.</p><p><strong>Results and discussion: </strong>Based on the phylogenetic tree, the strain of endophytic fungi was assigned to Botryosphaeria sp. FUHM17, being closely related to Botryosphaeria sp. P483 KT213569. The most effective synthesis of antioxidant metabolites was demonstrated when glucose and yeast extract were employed as the respective carbon and nitrogen sources. The optimal production of antioxidant metabolites was observed when glucose and yeast extract were employed as a carbon source of 10 g/L glucose and a nitrogen source of 10 g/L yeast extract, respectively. Intracellular metabolites from selective fungi exhibited 26.67% DPPH scavenging activity after 10 days of culture. In addition, the intracellular and extracellular metabolite extracts had IC50 values of 208.07 μg/mL and 832.22 μg/mL, respectively. Compared to ascorbic acid (IC50: 5-10 μg/mL), the metabolites exhibited moderate antioxidant activity.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>In the present study, the antioxidant metabolite of endophytic fungi was obtained from culture filtrate and biomass extract and confirmed by HPLC analysis. The findings indicated that the metabolites generated by endophytic fungi obtained from Ongkea hold promise as a prospective reservoir of unique natural antioxidants.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265340096"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143996929","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Clinical Manifestations, Immune Evasion, and Public Health Implications of Monkeypox: Challenges and Future Perspectives.","authors":"Bhumika Parashar, Rishabha Malviya, Sathvik Belagodu Sridhar, Javedh Shareef","doi":"10.2174/0118715265370049250717104044","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265370049250717104044","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Monkeypox (Mpox) is a disease primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals and humans. Recently, it has generated worldwide interest due to its expansion from endemic to non-endemic areas, raising concerns about its clinical consequences.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on clinical data, immune evasion mechanisms, and public health reports related to monkeypox.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The review revealed that monkeypox presents with fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy. Key findings include the emergence of immune evasion strategies and an increase in human-to-human transmission, highlighting significant challenges for global surveillance, vaccination coverage, and outbreak preparedness.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The findings underscore the varied clinical manifestations of Mpox, especially its severe impact on vulnerable populations such as HIV co-infected individuals and those with ocular involvement. The detailed analysis of immune evasion strategies reveals critical challenges in developing effective treatments and preventive measures. These insights align with existing research, emphasising the need for targeted interventions and improved diagnostic approaches. However, limitations include a reliance on available clinical reports and the evolving nature of monkeypox outbreaks, which may affect the generalizability of the conclusions.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Understanding the clinical characteristics of Mpox is crucial for guiding effective treatment and prevention strategies, particularly in vulnerable populations. These insights can support public health efforts, improve patient outcomes, and inform future research on emerging infectious diseases.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265370049"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144985168","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kumar S Abhishek, Alisha Aggarwal, Vibhor Tak, Vidhi Jain, Sarika P Kombade
{"title":"The Rise of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Ceftriaxone-Resistant <i>Salmonella typhi</i> in Western Rajasthan, India.","authors":"Kumar S Abhishek, Alisha Aggarwal, Vibhor Tak, Vidhi Jain, Sarika P Kombade","doi":"10.2174/0118715265382823250818113104","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265382823250818113104","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Typhoid fever, caused by <i>Salmonella typhi</i> and Paratyphi, remains a significant public health concern, particularly in developing countries. The emergence of antimicrobial resistance, including resistance to first-line drugs, fluoroquinolones, and the development of resistance to ceftriaxone, poses a significant threat to effective treatment.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study investigated extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing <i>Salmonella typhi</i> isolates from blood samples of patients with suspected typhoid fever at a tertiary care hospital in Western Rajasthan, India, between April 2022 and May 2024. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing followed by PCR for ESBL-producing genes (blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M) and blaCTX-M subtypes (blaCTX-M1, blaCTX-M2, blaCTX-M8, blaCTX-M9, blaCTX-M10, blaCTX-M14, and blaCTXM15) was performed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among 79 Salmonella typhi isolates, 18 (22.8%) exhibited resistance to ceftriaxone. PCR analysis revealed blaCTX-M as the predominant ESBL gene, detected in 77.8% of resistant isolates. Notably, blaCTX-M1, blaCTX-M15, and blaCTX-M10 types were identified among the blaCTX-Mpositive isolates.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>In our study, 48% of Salmonella typhi strains were resistant to fluoroquinolones, while chloramphenicol and co-trimoxazole showed re-emerging susceptibility (87%), likely due to their restricted use. Emerging ceftriaxone resistance, mediated by ESBL genes, predominantly blaCTX-M (especially blaCTX-M-15 and blaCTX-M-1) and blaSHV, poses challenges in clinical management. Notably, our study detected blaCTX-M10, which has not been previously reported in S. Typhi. Resistance gene spread is attributed to plasmids prevalent in E. coli and Klebsiella, which facilitate horizontal transfer. Study limitations include a small sample size, the absence of whole-genome sequencing, and a lack of clinical outcome data.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study highlights the emergence of ceftriaxone-resistant Salmonella typhi in Western Rajasthan, India. The high prevalence of blaCTX-M-producing isolates underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and the implementation of infection control measures to prevent the further spread of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, this study also highlights the re-emergence of sensitivity to chloramphenicol and co-trimoxazole.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265382823"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145017013","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Optimizing Chitosan-based Posaconazole Dry Powder Formulation Using Box-Behnken Design: The Role of Leucine in Enhancing Performance.","authors":"Sushil Kumar Singh, Shyam Sunder Pancholi","doi":"10.2174/0118715265376840250717072610","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0118715265376840250717072610","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>The objective of this study was to develop and optimize a dry powder inhalation formulation of Posaconazole-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles (POS-CSNPs) using a Quality by Design (QbD) approach. The aim was to enhance pulmonary drug delivery and antifungal efficacy, particularly against Rhizopus oryzae, by improving drug encapsulation, particle dispersion, and lung deposition using leucine as a performance enhancer.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was employed to evaluate the effects of Chitosan-to- Tripolyphosphate (CS:TPP) ratio, stirring speed, and polymer concentration on particle size, Polydispersity Index (PDI), and Entrapment Efficiency (EE). Nanoparticles were prepared via ionic gelation and spray-dried with varying concentrations of lactose and leucine. Characterization techniques included FTIR for drug-excipient compatibility, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) for size and zeta potential, TEM for morphology, and XRD for crystallinity. In vitro drug release, pulmonary deposition using a twin-stage impinger, antifungal activity, and stability under ICH conditions were assessed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The optimized formulation had a particle size of 248.20 ± 6.82 nm, PDI of 0.225 ± 0.010, zeta potential of 21.92 ± 0.84 mV, and EE of 68.17 ± 1.73%. In vitro release showed sustained drug delivery over 48 hours. The Fine Particle Fraction (FPF) reached 68.9% in leucine-based formulations, and antifungal activity was significantly higher compared to the pure drug, with a zone of inhibition of 21 ± 0.5 mm.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The results demonstrated improved particle characteristics, drug release, and antifungal efficacy. Leucine significantly enhanced dispersibility and deposition. However, scale-up and batch consistency remain challenges. Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm clinical applicability.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study successfully developed a stable, effective dry powder POS-CSNP formulation with enhanced pulmonary delivery and antifungal activity, offering potential for improved treatment of pulmonary fungal infections.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":"26 3","pages":"33"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148451247","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Strategic Directions for Addressing Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India.","authors":"Mansi Singh, Sanjesh Kumar","doi":"10.2174/0118715265384356250908115051","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265384356250908115051","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Recent reports indicate an increase in HMPV circulation, which may impact public health systems and have potential implications for India's already burdened healthcare system. HMPV is one of the etiological agents of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI), especially affecting children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Its pathophysiology involves epithelial cell infection, cytokine-mediated inflammation, and airway dysfunction, leading to clinical manifestations ranging from mild symptoms to severe respiratory distress. This article outlines strategic directions to address the challenges posed by HMPV in India. Strategic initiatives include enhancing healthcare infrastructure for ARI, integrating HMPV testing into existing surveillance frameworks, and initiating targeted public health campaigns. Working with regional partners and international health organizations helps prioritize the adoption of best practices and enables coordinated responses.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265384356"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294923","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mayssaloune Ali Kanso, Soumaya Mostafa Hijazi, Abdalla El-Lakany, Maha Aboul-Ela, Mohamad Ali Hijazi
{"title":"Phytochemical Investigation and Antimicrobial Activity of <i>Galium libanoticum</i>.","authors":"Mayssaloune Ali Kanso, Soumaya Mostafa Hijazi, Abdalla El-Lakany, Maha Aboul-Ela, Mohamad Ali Hijazi","doi":"10.2174/0118715265398196250827030711","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265398196250827030711","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>This study represents the first report of phytochemical investigation and antimicrobial screening of Galium libanoticum endemic to Lebanon. Despite the presence of more than 700 species of the genus Galium, this plant has not been investigated previously. Plants of the genus Galium are well known traditionally for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antimicrobial activities. In this study, we aimed to carry out, for the first time, the phytochemical investigation of G. libanoticum that has not been explored previously.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Isolation of bioactive compounds was performed using different chromatographic techniques, and the structure identification was achieved using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and 2D NMR spectroscopy.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Results revealed two major components, rutin (1) and asperulosidic acid (2). Both compounds, as well as the crude extract, were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against some common strains. The plant extract showed significant activity against Gram-positive bacteria E. faecalis and S. aureus with MIC of 31.25 μg/mL and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>This antibacterial activity was higher than that reported from other Galium species, suggesting special chemotypes with different constituents that should be investigated. On the other hand, rutin and asperulosidic acid revealed the highest activity against Gram-negative bacteria.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study highlighted the medicinal potential of the Galium libanoticum plant and its metabolites and necessitated further studies to isolate the undiscovered constituents that could serve as potential therapeutic remedies, especially in the antimicrobial resistance.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265398196"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294942","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Prince Kumar, Puja Gulati, Mohita Thakur, Raj Kamal
{"title":"Global Strategies for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance.","authors":"Prince Kumar, Puja Gulati, Mohita Thakur, Raj Kamal","doi":"10.2174/0118715265335162250903103138","DOIUrl":"10.2174/0118715265335162250903103138","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasingly threatening the lives of many people, as antibiotics, vital for managing infectious diseases, are no longer as effective. The widespread and inappropriate use of antimicrobial agents in humans, farming, and animal breeding is a major driver of AMR. This study carefully investigates how global cooperation can help control the impact of AMR, primarily by reviewing international policies, partnerships, and strategies against resistant microorganisms. According to our research, global efforts that combine improved surveillance, the prudent use of antibiotics, and greater access to healthcare are key to combating the AMR crisis. These efforts underscore the need for increased commitment and action from all countries, particularly those with limited resources. Additionally, the study supports the establishment of robust global monitoring systems, increased funding for research and development of new antimicrobial agents, and raising public awareness. These steps are essential for creating a coordinated and effective global response to the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":"e18715265335162"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294934","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Vaccine Development: A Focused Review.","authors":"Alok Bharadwaj, Geetanjali Hiremath, Yogyta Thakur, Krishan Kumar, Nitin Wahi","doi":"10.2174/0118715265359309251016105433","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.2174/0118715265359309251016105433","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global health, society, and economies, prompting unprecedented investments in biomedical research and vaccine de-velopment. Leveraging knowledge from previous coronavirus outbreaks, scientists rapidly developed vaccine candidates aiming to elicit strong antibody responses and target alterna-tive receptor-binding motifs. Remarkably, the effectiveness of these vaccines exceeded in-itial expectations, playing a pivotal role in controlling the pandemic. This review explores the latest technological advancements in vaccine development, including mRNA plat-forms, viral vectors, and protein subunit approaches, and highlights the critical importance of the vaccine development process. We analyze challenges encountered during the pan-demic, such as disease prevention, variation in prophylaxis, and rapid clinical evaluation. Insights gleaned from the literature on vaccine research, development, and drug testing provide a foundation for improved strategies in addressing future pandemics and shaping our responses to upcoming public health emergencies.</p>","PeriodicalId":101326,"journal":{"name":"Infectious disorders drug targets","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145484609","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}