Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms typically begin three to fourteen days after infection. These may include a high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash. Recovery generally takes two to seven days. In a small proportion of cases, the disease develops into severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, resulting in bleeding, low levels of blood platelets and blood plasma leakage, or into dengue ...

dengue

Photo by christopher lemercier on Unsplash

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Symptoms-of-low-platelet-count

Symptoms of low platelet count

Autoimmune-diseases:

1. Autoimmune diseases:

Autoimmune-diseases:_0_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own platelets, leading to low platelet count. Symptoms include easy bruising, bleeding gums, and petechiae.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in various organs and body tissues, including platelets, resulting in thrombocytopenia.</li><li>Rheumatoid arthritis: A long-term autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints but can also impact platelet count.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Consult a rheumatologist or hematologist for these conditions.</li></ul>

Infections:

2. Infections:

Infections:_0_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Hepatitis C: A viral infection that affects the liver and can cause thrombocytopenia by disrupting platelet production or increasing platelet destruction.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">HIV: The virus that causes AIDS can lead to thrombocytopenia by impairing platelet production or increasing platelet destruction.</li><li>Pylori infection: A bacterial infection in the stomach that has been linked to an increased risk of immune thrombocytopenia.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Consult an infectious disease specialist or gastroenterologist.</li></ul>

Bone-marrow-disorders:

3. Bone marrow disorders:

Bone-marrow-disorders:_0_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Leukemia: A cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including bone marrow, that can lead to thrombocytopenia by crowding out healthy platelet-producing cells.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Myelodysplastic syndromes: A group of disorders characterized by abnormal bone marrow cell production, which can cause a decline in platelet count.</li><li>Aplastic anemia: A rare condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells, including platelets.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Consult a hematologist or oncologist.</li></ul>

Genetic-conditions:

4. Genetic conditions:

Genetic-conditions:_0_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that affects the immune system and leads to low platelet count, making bleeding and bruising more likely.</li><li>May-Hegglin anomaly: A rare genetic condition characterized by abnormally large platelets and a reduced platelet count.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="2">Consult a genetic counselor or hematologist.</li></ul>

Drug-induced-thrombocytopenia

Drug-induced thrombocytopenia

Drug-induced-thrombocytopenia_1_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Heparin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Quinine</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sulfonamides</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chemotherapy medications</li></ul>

Drug-induced-thrombocytopenia_1_1

Herbal-and-natural-remedies

Herbal and natural remedies

Papaya-leaf-extract-(Carica-papaya)

Papaya leaf extract (Carica papaya)

Papaya-leaf-extract-(Carica-papaya)_2_0

Studies suggest that papaya leaf extract can help increase platelet count in individuals with dengue fever, and it may have potential benefits for those with thrombocytopenia.

Ashwagandha-(Withania-somnifera)

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha-(Withania-somnifera)_2_0

This adaptogenic herb is known for its immune-boosting and stress-reducing properties, which may be beneficial for individuals with thrombocytopenia caused by autoimmune diseases or stress-related factors.

Milk-thistle-(Silybum-marianum)

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk-thistle-(Silybum-marianum)_2_0

Milk thistle has been shown to support liver health, which may help improve platelet count in cases where thrombocytopenia is related to liver disorders.

Astragalus-membranaceus

Astragalus membranaceus

Astragalus-membranaceus_2_0

Known for its immune-enhancing properties, astragalus may help support platelet production and reduce the risk of infections that can cause thrombocytopenia.

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_2_0

Turmeric's active compound, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help improve platelet count in individuals with thrombocytopenia due to inflammation or oxidative stress.

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_2_1

Lifestyle-changes:

Lifestyle changes:

Lifestyle-changes:_3_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Limit alcohol consumption</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of infections</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Exercise regularly to improve overall health</li></ul>

Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:

Here are the answers to 10 frequently asked questions that are not addressed in the article:

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_0

Q: How is thrombocytopenia diagnosed?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_1

A: Thrombocytopenia is diagnosed through blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC).

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_2

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_3

Q: Can pregnancy cause thrombocytopenia?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_4

A: Yes, gestational thrombocytopenia can occur during pregnancy but usually resolves after delivery.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_5

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_6

Q: Is thrombocytopenia a lifelong condition?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_7

A: It depends on the underlying cause; some cases may be temporary, while others may require long-term management.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_8

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_9

Q: Can I exercise with thrombocytopenia?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_10

A: Consult your doctor before starting any exercise regimen, but generally, low-impact exercises are recommended.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_11

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_12

Q: Is thrombocytopenia contagious?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_13

A: No, thrombocytopenia itself is not contagious, but some infections that cause it can be transmitted.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_14

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_15

Q: Can thrombocytopenia be genetic?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_16

A: Yes, some genetic conditions can lead to thrombocytopenia.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_17

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_18

Q: Can certain foods help increase platelet count?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_19

A: Foods rich in vitamins B12, C, K, and folate can help support platelet production, such as leafy greens, citrus fruits, and lean meats.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_20

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_21

Q: Can stress affect platelet count?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_22

A: Chronic stress may indirectly impact platelet count by affecting the immune system or exacerbating underlying conditions.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_23

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_24

Q: Is thrombocytopenia common in children?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_25

A: Thrombocytopenia can occur in children, but the most common cause, immune thrombocytopenia, is usually temporary and resolves on its own.

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_26

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_27

Q: Can thrombocytopenia cause anemia?

Here-are-the-answers-to-10-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-addressed-in-the-article:_4_28

A: Thrombocytopenia and anemia are separate conditions, but they can coexist or share common underlying causes such as bone marrow disorders or certain medications.

Thrombocytopenia, or low platelet count, can result from various diseases, conditions, and medications. By understanding the symptoms and causes, you can take steps to manage this condition. Consult the appropriate medical professionals, consider herbal and natural treatments, and make healthy lifestyle choices to improve your platelet count and overall well-being.

Low Platelet Count: Understanding Thrombocytopenia

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Екипът на Санацио

What-is-curcumin

What is curcumin

What-is-curcumin_0_0

Like many spices, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Its main ingredient is curcumin, which is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory benefits as well as potential benefits associated with slowing down the aging process and preventing Alzheimer's disease. Ayurvedic medicine - a traditional Indian treatment system, recommends turmeric for various health conditions that proceed with chronic pain and inflammation because of the strong anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin and other active compounds in turmeric.&nbsp;

What-is-curcumin_0_1

With regard to inflammatory conditions, natural compounds such as curcumin have shown a beneficial effect on the progression of inflammatory diseases due to their numerous mechanisms of action: antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antiplatelet and cytoprotective. These and many other effects of curcumin make it a promising tool in the adjuvant treatment of COVID-19.

What-is-curcumin_0_2

The antiviral effects of curcumin have been widely studied - it prevents the binding of influenza A virus, dengue virus, Zika virus and human norovirus (HuNoV) to host cells. In addition, curcumin inhibits the replication of the viral genome and transcription of the respiratory syncythial virus (RSV) and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), interferes with the translation and assembly of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human cytimegalovirus (HCMV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

What-is-curcumin_0_3

The-potential-of-curcumin-as-a-medicinal-agent-for-COVID-19

The potential of curcumin as a medicinal agent for COVID-19

The-potential-of-curcumin-as-a-medicinal-agent-for-COVID-19_1_0

A team of scientists found in in vitro analyses the antiviral action of curcumin against the SARS-CoV virus in Vero-E6 cells, and this natural polyphenol can inhibit viral replication at concentrations of 3-10 &mu;M. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.675287/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Curcumin as a Potential Treatment for COVID-19" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> Based on such data on antiviral activity, researchers using in silico prediction models evaluated the potential of curcumin against SARS-CoV-2 binding proteins and its cell receptors. The results showed that curcumin has a high affinity for interaction with S glycoprotein by establishing six hydrogen bonds and realizes higher scores than control compounds such as nafamostat and hydroxychloroquine. In addition, curcumin shows an affinity for ACE2. In addition, curcumin interacts with the active part of the protein, in addition to the formation of two hydrogen bonds. Similarly, curcumin demonstrates a better affinity for ACE2 than control compounds.

The-potential-of-curcumin-as-a-medicinal-agent-for-COVID-19_1_1

Another interesting result in this study is related to the main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2, which is mandatory in maturation and viral replication and is a promising target in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. Among the compounds tested, including chloroquine, entecavir, hydroxychloroquine and remdesivir, curcumin surprisingly formed the most stable complex with SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, and the affinity result was comparable to that of the N3 control.

The-potential-of-curcumin-as-a-medicinal-agent-for-COVID-19_1_2

The-potential-of-curcumin-as-a-medicinal-agent-for-COVID-19_1_3

The researchers also found that curcumin in low doses inhibits the mTORC1-Raptor interaction, leading to inhibition of the mTORC1 complex. Curcumin also promotes interruption of mTORC2-Rictor interaction at higher doses, thereby inhibiting mTORC2. the mTOR route is a central regulator of mammalian metabolism and physiology, including humans. The signaling path of mTOR, which is often activated in tumors, not only regulates gene transcription and protein synthesis to regulate cell proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, but also plays an important role in tumor metabolism &nbsp;<a href="https://pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1716173114" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

The-potential-of-curcumin-as-a-medicinal-agent-for-COVID-19_1_4

Another team of researchers looked at oral intake of curcumin in combination with piperine as adjuvant therapy for the treatment of COVID-19 in a randomized clinical trial. Patients with COVID-19 with mild, moderate and severe symptoms who received curcumin/piperine treatment showed early symptomatic recovery, less deterioration, fewer signs of serious pathology, better ability to maintain oxygen saturation above 94% with free breathing, better clinical outcomes compared to patients in the control group (who received only probiotics twice a day). The results were collected in a double-blind, randomized, controlled study conducted in two groups of 70 people each, a total of 140 people. <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.669362/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Oral Curcumin With Piperine as Adjuvant Therapy for the Treatment of COVID-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

In vitro results for the antiviral action of curcumin on SARS-CoV and data from in silico analyses confirm the hypothesis of potential activity against SARS-CoV-2. A limited number of studies also consider oral intake of curcumin as a potential cure for coronavirus infection. This information can be used by the scientific community to further assess the effect of curcumin on cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 and virus replication using in vitro and in vivo models and in randomised clinical trials.

Curcumin as a potential treatment for COVID-19

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Бетина Цветкова

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack

How viruses work and why they attack

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack_0_0

There is no unanimity on whether viruses are living microorganisms, since they can not exist independently, but can be associated with a host cell. Viruses rely on the cells of other organisms to survive and reproduce, because they cannot capture or store energy themselves. In other words, they can not function outside the host organism, therefore they are often considered non-living.

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack_0_1

At the heart of the viral particle is the genome - the long molecule made up of DNA or RNA that contains the genetic instructions for reproducing the virus. The virus is wrapped in a shell made of protein molecules called capsid, which protects the genetic material.

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack_0_2

Some viruses also have an outer shell made of lipids. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is one of those "shrouded" viruses. Soap can dissolve this fatty shell, which leads to the destruction of the entire viral particle! This is also one of the reasons why health authorities recommend frequent hand washing, and it has also been confirmed in a large number of studies by different scientific teams <a href="https://www.who.int/southeastasia/news/detail/15-10-2020-handwashing-an-effective-tool-to-prevent-covid-19-other-diseases" target="_blank" data-ref="Handwashing an effective tool to prevent COVID-19, other diseases" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> , <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34250260/" target="_blank" data-ref="Hand Hygiene Practices and the Risk of Human Coronavirus Infections in a UK Community Cohort - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack_0_3

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack_0_4

But do all viruses pose a danger? We can say that they are like predators and have a specific prey that they can recognize and attack. Viruses that do not recognize our cells are harmless, and some others will infect us, but will have no consequences for our health.

How-viruses-work-and-why-they-attack_0_5

Many animal and plant species have their own viruses. Cats have the feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV - a feline version of HIV that causes AIDS in humans. Bats are sources of many different types of coronavirus, one of which is believed to be the source of the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

IBM-and-their-development

IBM and their development

IBM-and-their-development_1_0

A team of scientists from IBM's Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology understand that there are several main problems preventing us from dealing with viruses. The first problem is that viruses are replicated and passed to other hosts. Today we have antiretroviral drug therapy (ART), which is given to HIV patients and which inhibits viral replication. A person can live normally without the virus prevailing. But ART does not clear it from the body. To do this, the drugs will need to be directed to the host cells, while leaving the healthy intact. This has not yet been achieved despite mankind's enormous medical and technological advances.

IBM-and-their-development_1_1

In order to better understand viruses, researchers at IBM's Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology in Singapore are trying to find out what all viruses have in common. Now they believe they have created a molecule that can not only successfully cure any virus, but also create a viable vaccine.

IBM-and-their-development_1_2

Instead of focusing on a genetic level analysis that differs from one strain to another, the researchers looked at certain proteins common to each virus, known as glycoproteins. They are located on the outside of the body and allow the virus to be accessed by cells to "take over" them. Understanding this, researchers are trying to formulate a macromolecule that is a large molecule made up of much smaller ones.

IBM-and-their-development_1_3

Using an electrostatic charge, the macromolecular is able to attract a virus and connect to it, making it unable to enter the host cell. Then it changes the pH level of the pathogen, turning it into acidic, and therefore - less likely to replicate. Moreover, the macromolecule also has a way of protecting the immune system. It disperses sugar called manosis, which binds to immune cells, inhibiting the virus's ability to enter them.

IBM-and-their-development_1_4

So far, Ebola and the dengue virus have been tested, and the results, published in the journal Macromolecules, <a href="https://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=US201800239631" target="_blank" data-ref="Cooperative Orthogonal Macromolecular Assemblies with Broad Spectrum Antiviral Activity, High Selectivity, and Resistance Mitigation" rel="noopener">are encouraging [ref. 3]</a> . What's more, a computer model finds the technique effective against Ebola, influenza, chikungunya, dengue fever and Herpes Simplex 1, among other viruses.

IBM-and-their-development_1_5

This research is at the validation level of the concept. Much more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans. If successful, we may have a drug, disinfecting towels or a cleaning spray, even a hand sanitizing products that can prevent a viral infection. Scientists even plan to take advantage of the Watson supercomputer to accelerate the development of their discovery.

IBM develops supermolecule to destroy all viruses

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Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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The record for the world's most venomous snake is once again held by an Australian species - the inland or western taipan&nbsp;(Oxyuranus microlepidotus) - its venom is specialized in killing mammals as they are the snake's prey. It is estimated that one bite is enough to kill at least 100 people.

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Perhaps unsurprisingly, Australia is the homeland of the 10 most venomous snakes in the world.

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But snake venom contains a huge variety of molecules, which have a pharmacological effect, and its toxicity is associated with only a small number of them.

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Many of the toxins can be used for medical purposes due to their specific interaction with the body. And in this case the dose makes the poison. Of course, we are far from thinking that the bite of a venomous snake is a healthy practice.

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As early as the beginning of the 17th century, the anticoagulant action of snake venom was known. And today, drugs based on it are produced. These are Captopril, Aggrastat and Eptifibatide.

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In nature, there are many venomous organisms, besides snakes - scorpions, spiders, insects, amphibians and cone snails, the poisons of which can find application in biotechnology and pharmacy.

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Snake-Venom-In-Antiquity-And-Folk-Medicine

Snake Venom In Antiquity And Folk Medicine

Snake-Venom-In-Antiquity-And-Folk-Medicine_0_0

The snake was considered a god of medicine in the ancient Greek world and it is still used these days as a symbol of medicine and pharmacy.

Snake-Venom-In-Antiquity-And-Folk-Medicine_0_1

In Ayurveda, cobra venom is used to treat joint pain, inflammation and arthritis. It has also been used for centuries in China to treat opium addiction and by Indians, who combine it with opium for pain relief.

Snake-Venom-In-Antiquity-And-Folk-Medicine_0_2

Other bodily fluids from snakes, such as blood and bile, are also widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Snake_venom_components_and_their_applications_in_biomedicine_17103111" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

What's-In-Snake-Venom

What's In Snake Venom

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_0

According to some studies , more than 100 different substances are found in snake venom, with about 95% of the dry matter of the venom <a href="/p/kakva_ie_razlikata_miezhdu_bieltk_i_protiein_b1b6b96e_e340_46d2_9768_ac9fa8cd6adc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">consisting of proteins and peptides.</a>

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_1

Some are enzymes,&nbsp;and other components in snake venom are nucleosides, metal cations, carbohydrates and very low levels of free amino acids and lipids with less biological activity.

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_2

Most snake poisons contain proteolytic enzymes. These enzymes accelerate the breakdown of proteins in tissues to amino acids.

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_3

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_4

Another type of enzymes found in almost all snake poisons are hyaluronidases, which are considered "spreading factors" as they damage the tissue at the site of the bite. This facilitates the spread of other toxins.

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_5

Sodium is the most common cation in snake venom, but its role is unknown. Zinc and calcium are required for the activation of specific enzymes.

What's-In-Snake-Venom_1_6

The composition of snake venom differs between species, subspecies or even in the same species of snakes. These differences are related to many factors, including geographical distribution, age, gender and what the snake feeds on.

dengue

Curcumin as a potential treatment for COVID-19

IBM develops supermolecule to destroy all viruses

The Healing Properties Of Snake Venom - From Ancient Times To Modern Cancer Treatment

How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes And Ticks And Stop The Itching With Natural Remedies