A spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that causes temporary or permanent changes in its function. Symptoms may include loss of muscle function, sensation, or autonomic function in the parts of the body served by the spinal cord below the level of the injury. Injury can occur at any level of the spinal cord and can be complete injury, with a total loss of sensation and muscle function at lower sacral segments, or incomplete, meaning some nervous signals are able to travel past the ...

spinal cord injuries

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1.Widespread-Pain

1.Widespread Pain

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Widespread pain affecting both sides of the body, above and below the waist, is a hallmark of fibromyalgia. This deep, burning ache can hinder daily activities and is often accompanied by tender points at specific locations.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

2.Fatigue

2.Fatigue_1_0

Chronic Fatigue is a common symptom of fibromyalgia, leading to persistent tiredness even after rest. This fatigue can impact cognitive function, memory, and overall productivity, affecting the individual's quality of life.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

3.Sleep-Disturbances

3.Sleep Disturbances

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&nbsp;Fibromyalgia patients frequently experience sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to unrefreshing sleep patterns. Addressing sleep issues is crucial in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

4.Cognitive-Impairment-(Fibro-Fog)

4.Cognitive Impairment (Fibro Fog)

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&nbsp;"Fibro fog" is characterized by cognitive impairments, including memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and mental confusion. Managing stress and employing memory aids can help individuals cope with fibro fog.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

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5.Tender-Points

5.Tender Points

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&nbsp;Tender points are localized areas on the body that are exceptionally sensitive to touch. These tender points are typically found around the neck, shoulders, chest, hips, and knees.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

6.Headaches

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&nbsp;Chronic headaches, including migraines, are prevalent among fibromyalgia patients and can exacerbate overall discomfort. Proper headache management strategies are essential for improving the quality of life.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

7.Irritable-Bowel-Syndrome-(IBS)

7.Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

7.Irritable-Bowel-Syndrome-(IBS)_6_0

&nbsp;Fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often coexist. Patients may experience abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. A balanced diet and stress reduction techniques may help manage IBS symptoms.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

7.Irritable-Bowel-Syndrome-(IBS)_6_1

8.Sensitivity-to-Temperature,-Light,-and-Noise

8.Sensitivity to Temperature, Light, and Noise

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&nbsp;Individuals with fibromyalgia may have heightened sensitivity to temperature, bright lights, and loud noises. Reducing exposure to triggers and practicing relaxation techniques may alleviate symptoms.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

9.Anxiety-and-Depression

9.Anxiety and Depression

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&nbsp;Living with chronic pain and fatigue can lead to anxiety and depression in fibromyalgia patients. Mental health support and therapies can be valuable in managing these conditions alongside fibromyalgia treatment.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fn-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a>

Herbs-and-Natural-Remedies-for-Fibromyalgia

Herbs and Natural Remedies for Fibromyalgia

Herbs-and-Natural-Remedies-for-Fibromyalgia_9_0

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, some herbs and natural remedies may complement conventional treatments and alleviate symptoms. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before trying any new treatment. Here are a few beneficial options:

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_9_0

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with fibromyalgia. Incorporate turmeric into your diet or try curcumin supplements under medical supervision.

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_9_1

Devil's-Claw-(Harpagophytum-procumbens)

Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)

Devil's-Claw-(Harpagophytum-procumbens)_9_0

&nbsp;Devil's Claw is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, potentially helping relieve muscle pain and stiffness. Prepare a soothing herbal tea using Devil's Claw root.

Lavender-(Lavandula-angustifolia)

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender-(Lavandula-angustifolia)_9_0

Lavender essential oil has calming properties that may aid in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. Diffuse lavender oil in your bedroom or add a few drops to a warm bath before bedtime.

Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

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Q: Can fibromyalgia symptoms vary between individuals?

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A: Yes, fibromyalgia symptoms can differ from person to person. While widespread pain is a common symptom, the intensity and specific areas affected can vary widely.

Questions-and-Answers_10_2

Questions-and-Answers_10_3

Q: Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms?

Questions-and-Answers_10_4

A: Yes, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress management techniques, and a balanced diet can contribute to managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

Questions-and-Answers_10_5

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Q: Can fibromyalgia symptoms come and go?

Questions-and-Answers_10_7

A: Yes, fibromyalgia symptoms can be episodic, with periods of flare-ups and remission.

Questions-and-Answers_10_8

Questions-and-Answers_10_9

Q: Are there any specific trigger factors for fibromyalgia?

Questions-and-Answers_10_10

A: While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, some trigger factors like physical or emotional trauma, infections, or genetic predisposition may contribute to its development.

Questions-and-Answers_10_11

Questions-and-Answers_10_12

Q: Is fibromyalgia more common in certain age groups?

Questions-and-Answers_10_13

A: Fibromyalgia can affect people of all ages, but it is more commonly diagnosed in middle-aged individuals, especially women. However, it can also occur in children and older adults.

References

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">National Fibromyalgia Association. "What Is Fibromyalgia?"<a href="https://fmaware.org/about-fibromyalgia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Arnold LM, et al. "A Double-Blind, Multicenter Trial Comparing Duloxetine With Placebo in the Treatment of Fibromyalgia Patients With or Without Major Depressive Disorder." Arthritis Rheum. 2004; 50(9): 2974&ndash;2984. DOI: 10.1002/art.20485.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Haack M, et al. "Sleep research in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: past, present and future." Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2011; 25(2): 271-284. DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2011.01.008.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glass JM. "Fibromyalgia and cognition." J Clin Psychiatry. 2008; 69 Suppl 2: 20-4. PMID: 18494547.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-4" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wolfe F, et al. "The American College of Rheumatology 1990 Criteria for the Classification of Fibromyalgia." Arthritis Rheum. 1990; 33(2): 160-172. DOI: 10.1002/art.1780330203.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-5" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fern&aacute;ndez-de-las-Pe&ntilde;as C, Cuadrado ML, Gerwin RD, Pareja JA. "Myofascial trigger points and their relationship to headache clinical parameters in chronic tension-type headache." Headache. 2006; 46(8):1264-1272. DOI: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.2006.00566.x.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reme SE, Darnley S, Kennedy T, Chalder T. "Predictors of treatment outcome in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis: a systematic review of the literature." Psychol Med. 2014; 44(14): 2867-2880. DOI: 10.1017/S0033291714000130.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sener G, et al. "Melatonin reduces oxidative stress and apoptotic markers in the ileum and distal colon of rats with colitis." Dig Dis Sci. 2009; 54(4): 704-712. DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0405-2.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-8" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a></li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Okifuji A, Hare BD. "The association between chronic pain and obesity." J Pain Res. 2015; 8: 399-408. DOI: 10.2147/JPR.S55598.<a href="https://chat.openai.com/?model=text-davinci-002-render-sha#user-content-fnref-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a></li></ul>

Recognizing the symptoms of fibromyalgia is crucial for early detection and proper management of this chronic condition. Widespread pain, chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairments, and tenderness in specific points are common indicators. Additionally, heightened sensitivity, headaches, IBS, anxiety, and depression are prevalent among fibromyalgia patients. While natural remedies like turmeric, devil's claw, and lavender may offer complementary support, it is essential to seek professional medical advice for a personalized treatment plan. Taking a proactive approach to understanding fibromyalgia can lead to a better quality of life

9 Symptoms You Need to Know to Identify Fibromyalgia

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What-is-Botox?

What is Botox? 

What-is-Botox?_0_0

What-is-Botox?_0_1

Botox is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. Botulinum toxin works by blocking nerve activity in the muscles. Several types of botulinum toxin are known – A, B, C, D, E, F and G – and for medicinal purposes are mainly used type A and very rarely type B.

What-is-Botox?_0_2

Botox injections are used to soften mimic wrinkles, prevent chronic migraines, excessive sweating, cervical dystonia, spasticity, certain diseases of the eye muscles and other specific conditions. Botox injections work by relaxing muscles and blocking signals that cause muscles to contract.&nbsp;

What-can-Botox-be-used-for?

What can Botox be used for? 

What-can-Botox-be-used-for?_1_0

What-can-Botox-be-used-for?_1_1

The areas of application of botulinum toxin are not limited to the most popular placement in the upper or lower part of the face. Here are the other conditions Botox can be used for: 1

What-can-Botox-be-used-for?_1_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chronic migraine: Botox is used for chronic migraines in patients who have 15 or more headaches per month that last 4 hours a day or more. In migraines, Botox is administered to seven specific areas of the head and neck muscles. The results usually last up to 12 weeks, depending on the individual patient. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Facial wrinkles: Cosmetic Botox is used to temporarily reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles in adults.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cervical dystonia: Botox is used in adults to treat cervical dystonia, a condition that causes the neck muscles to contract abnormally. This causes the neck to twist and the head to tilt to one side, forward or backward.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Muscle stiffness: Botox is also used to treat muscle stiffness (spasticity) of the arms, legs and feet in adults and children aged at least 2 years. Spasticity is when there is an abnormal increase in muscle tone or stiffness of the muscles, which can cause problems with movement, speech, or can cause discomfort or pain.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Eye muscle conditions: Botox is used to treat certain eye muscle conditions caused by nervous disorders in adults and children at least 12 years old. This includes uncontrolled blinking or spasm of the eyelids and a condition in which the eyes do not point in the same direction (strabismus).</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bladder problems: Botox is used in adults to treat overactive bladder and incontinence (leakage of urine) that have not been affected by other medicines. Botox can be used to treat incontinence caused by nerve diseases, such as spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis.</li></ul>

The-8-Most-Important-Questions-Before-Botox

The 8 Most Important Questions Before Botox

The-first-consultation-is-the-most-important

The first consultation is the most important 

The-first-consultation-is-the-most-important_2_0

The-first-consultation-is-the-most-important_2_1

Like any other procedure, finding a specialist who will make you feel comfortable and answer your questions is crucial before Botox. 2

The-first-consultation-is-the-most-important_2_2

Specialists examine the capacity of the muscles and feel exactly how the different muscles contract and pull the skin. Each of the muscles of the glabell (between the eyebrows), temple, and around the eyes (crow's feet) are attached to the skin, which is why they cause wrinkles when they contract. Botox injections reduce the ability of muscles to contract completely, thereby reducing/eliminating wrinkles.&nbsp;

The-first-consultation-is-the-most-important_2_3

You should also have a thorough assessment of the condition before the injection. Some antibiotics, especially in the aminoglycoside category, such as gentamicin, can increase the strength of neurotoxins. Therefore, if you want to be given a Botox injection, make sure you find the right skin specialist who understands the different skin types and applies the best possible treatment.&nbsp;

Botox-is-a-temporary-solution

Botox is a temporary solution 

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Probably one of the most important questions people have is how long Botox results last. The constructive results of Botox can last up to half a year, when even the procedure can be repeated at the earliest.&nbsp;

Botox-is-a-temporary-solution_2_1

The time frame for results depends on many factors, including your digestion, how often you exercise, the severity of damaged skin, and much more. No matter which neurotoxin you try, the results aren't quick and don't last forever. Depending on the amount of neurotoxin infused and how your body processes it, most patients will see that the effect of Botox injection lasts three to four months, after which they need a new injection.

The-results-are-not-immediate

The results are not immediate 

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Given our culture of instant gratification, we must point out that Botox results are not immediate. Usually, fourteen days after insertion, you will be able to see the full effects of Botox. The time required for a complete Botox result depends on the individual, the area treated, and various other variables. The affected nerves have "binding sites" that allow the chemical to stick to their surface and suppress activity. The more binding sites your nerves contain, the faster the results will begin to show.

Several-procedures-are-needed-to-insert-botulinum-toxin

Several procedures are needed to insert botulinum toxin

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Of course, you can put Botox once and assess whether you are satisfied with the effect of the procedure. But to get long-lasting results, several procedures are needed because Botox is not long-lasting.&nbsp;

Several-procedures-are-needed-to-insert-botulinum-toxin_2_1

The impact disappears and wrinkles may reappear. This is because your nerve cells produce acetylcholine receptors after Botox disappears. These receptors create facial expressions that cause wrinkles. To really remove wrinkles, you need to apply Botox again and again.&nbsp;

Botox-is-safe-with-proper-operation-and-placement

Botox is safe with proper operation and placement 

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Botox is generally considered a safe drug, and it is extremely important to be administered by specialists with the appropriate license. This can minimize the risks of the procedure that may follow.&nbsp;

Be-aware-of-where-your-Botox-injection-comes-from

Be aware of where your Botox injection comes from 

Be-aware-of-where-your-Botox-injection-comes-from_2_0

Make sure your doctor is the official supplier of each substance to be injected. Allergan, Merz and Galderma are three of the leading producers of neurotoxins and fillers – such as Botox, Vistabel, Bocouture, Xeoxin, Azzalure and Dysport – and Allergan also produces the dissolving fat Kybella.&nbsp;

Be-aware-of-where-your-Botox-injection-comes-from_2_1

To reduce the risk of applying an expired, contaminated or potentially dangerous product, some manufacturers' websites offer a zip code search tool to any licensed physician who has received their product legally.

Botox-won't-remove-your-wrinkles-completely.

Botox won't remove your wrinkles completely. 

Botox-won't-remove-your-wrinkles-completely._2_0

Botox is not a magical product, despite the fact that it effectively copes with the symptoms of aging. Because of this, Botox is not a panacea to completely remove your wrinkles. Botox mostly removes certain types of wrinkles, especially wrinkles that form due to facial expressions. These include crow's feet (three wrinkles in the outer corners of the eyes), glabella (wrinkles between the eyebrows) and frontalis (wrinkles on the forehead).&nbsp;

Botox-won't-remove-your-wrinkles-completely._2_1

"Static curves" is another term for wrinkles. These wrinkles can appear at any time, even when our skin is flabby. They develop for a variety of reasons, such as hereditary qualities, UV damage, and lack of hydration or collagen. And the last two are characteristic with advancing age.

You-Should-Avoid-Certain-Foods-and-Drinks-Before-Botox

You Should Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks Before Botox 

You-Should-Avoid-Certain-Foods-and-Drinks-Before-Botox_2_0

Most Botox veterans and fillers know that they should stop anticoagulants such as aspirin and ibuprofen before insertion, as these types of medications inhibit blood clotting and increase the risk of bruising if the needle cuts through a blood vessel.&nbsp;

You-Should-Avoid-Certain-Foods-and-Drinks-Before-Botox_2_1

Experts in the field say that fish oil, multivitamins, green tea, cinnamon, ginger and red wine are also contraindicated all week before Botox. Antioxidants, though not all, can increase the fragility of blood vessels and prevent clotting. Therefore, always ask your doctor at least two weeks before Botox treatments what foods, drinks, and medications you should avoid.

Risks-of-Botox

Risks of Botox 

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Risks-of-Botox_3_1

Botox injections are relatively safe when performed by qualified specialist doctors. Preparations containing botulinum toxin are medications, so they should be administered only by medical professionals with appropriate education and experience. Possible side effects and complications that can occur with improper placement include:

Risks-of-Botox_3_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Headache or flu-like symptoms</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sagging eyelids or protruding eyebrows</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Crooked smile</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dry eyes or excessive watery 3</li></ul>Although it is highly unlikely, it is possible that the toxin in the injection will spread throughout the body. If you notice any of these effects hours to weeks after Botox, contact your doctor immediately and visit a medical center:

Risks-of-Botox_3_3

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Muscle weakness</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vision problems</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Trouble speaking or swallowing</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Breathing problems</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of bladder control</li></ul>

Other-Important-Questions-Before-You-Are-Given-Botox

Other-Important-Questions-Before-You-Are-Given-Botox_4_0

You should not be treated with Botox if you are allergic to botulinum toxin or if you have:

Other-Important-Questions-Before-You-Are-Given-Botox_4_1

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">infection in the area where botox will be injected;&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">• a current bladder infection or if you cannot urinate and do not routinely use a catheter.</li></ul>To make sure Botox is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Other-Important-Questions-Before-You-Are-Given-Botox_4_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">other injections of botulinum toxin (especially in the last 3-4 months);</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">amyotrophic lateral sclerosis;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">myasthenia gravis;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lambert-Eaton syndrome;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">side effect after previous use of botulinum toxin;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">respiratory disorder, such as asthma or emphysema;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">problems with swallowing;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">weakness of the facial muscles (drooping eyelids, problems with raising the eyebrows);</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">change in the normal appearance of the face;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">problems with bleeding;&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Operation.</li></ul>

Botox is a fast, affordable&nbsp; and relatively painless procedure that minimizes the visible signs of aging. The increasingly famous botulinum toxin for injection removes wrinkles by briefly paralyzing the muscles of the face. Botox is probably the most popular aesthetic procedure for anti-aging effect, but for long-term results it should be applied over a period of time and in combination with other methods to delay aging.&nbsp; Given that botox is a neurotoxin that affects the muscles of the face, it should not be approached irresponsibly before the procedure. With some research and preparation, you can make an informed choice about whether this method is right for you. We hope that with the issues discussed in the article you have got an idea of what you need to know before you get Botox and what are the advantages and disadvantages.

Everything you need to know before injecting botulinum toxin (Botox)

Everything you need to know before injecting botulinum toxin (

Бетина Цветкова

Oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It includes medical oncology (use of chemotherapy, hormone therapy and other drugs for the treatment of cancer), radiation oncology (use of radiation therapy to treat cancer) and surgical oncology (use of surgery and other procedures for the treatment of cancer). Today we will draw your attention to a new, potentially working type of chemotherapy based on a Himalayan caterpillar fungus - a fungus parasitizing in the bodies of insects. The cordycepine extracted from it turns out to be an active anticancer agent with promising potential.

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Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?

Himalayan caterpillar fungus - what is it?

Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?_0_0

The caterpillar fungus, or Ophiocordyceps sinensis, is the most valuable parasite in the world (and today you will understand why). It is a close relative of the tropical fungus, which amazingly turns ants into zombies, but unlike its infamous cousin, it occurs only on the Tibetan plateau, where it infects the larvae of spooky moths and some other insect species.

Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?_0_1

This fungus has long been part of traditional Chinese medicine, and its demand has increased sharply in recent decades. In Bhutan, for example - one of the countries where mushrooms gather - they account for a significant portion of the gross domestic product.

Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?_0_2

From 1997 to 2012, prices for the Himalayan caterpillar fungus increased by 20% each year, and the global market for this type of mushroom reaches between $5 billion and $11 billion a year.

Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?_0_3

But how does this fungus control another organism and use it to develop? The fungus pushes its almost dead hosts to the surface before pointing a dark brown, spor-filled stem through their heads. For this reason, the fungus is known locally as yartsa gunbu, literally from tibetan language - "winter worm, summer grass".

Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?_0_4

Himalayan-caterpillar-fungus---what-is-it?_0_5

The fungus is highly valued for its purported medical benefits, for example as a means of treating cancer and anti-ageing means, for boosting libido and strengthening the immune system. A paper published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine notes that the fungus can help treat night sweats, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, asthenia, arrhythmias and other heart, respiratory, kidney and liver diseases. The scientific review dedicated to the mysterious fungus states that it possesses more than thirty bioactivities, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. [ref. 1]

A-new-type-of-chemotherapy-using-Caterpillar-Fungus

A new type of chemotherapy using Caterpillar Fungus

A-new-type-of-chemotherapy-using-Caterpillar-Fungus_1_0

An experimental cancer drug made from a molecule found in the Himalayan caterpillar fungus has shown great potential as a new treatment for patients with advanced tumours in a small clinical trial. The new type of chemotherapy is known as "NUC-7738". This name was given by team of researchers from the University of Oxford, and the findings are based on cordycepin, first discovered in the parasitic species of fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis. The active ingredient of these mushrooms has been used as an herbal medicine in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and locals also believe in the immunostimulating effect of the mushroom. [ref. 2, 3, 4]

A-new-type-of-chemotherapy-using-Caterpillar-Fungus_1_1

The metabolite NUC-7738, synthesized by university of Oxford researchers in partnership with THE UK-based biopharmaceutical company NuCana, is still in the experimental testing and is not available as an anticancer drug. However, recent published results suggest that this ingredient can be used to make an anticancer drug. To date, scientists have studied the suspected anticancer, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the compound in a small phase I study involving 28 patients with advanced stage tumors, who were resistant to conventional cancer treatment.

Cordycepin---the-secret-active-ingredient

Cordycepin - the secret active ingredient

Cordycepin---the-secret-active-ingredient_2_0

Cordycepine, also called 3'-deoxyadenosine (or 3'-dA), is a natural nucleoside analogue. These analogues can be used in therapeutic drugs, including antiviral products, applied to prevent viral replication in infected cells. [ref. 5, 6]

Cordycepin---the-secret-active-ingredient_2_1

The big issue with 3'-dA, however, is that it has very low bioavailability, which means it does not easily find its way to cancer cells when ingested in its natural form. This is because it is broken down by an enzyme called adenosine deaminase (ADA) within minutes of entering the bloodstream.

Cordycepin---the-secret-active-ingredient_2_2

Even if it remains intact, cordycepine cannot enter tumor cells alone and rit equires the help of a nucleoside transporter called hENT1. Once inside the cell, it must be metabolized by an enzyme called adenosine kinase (ADK) before it can accomplish its anticancer effects.

Billions of dollars have been raised, invested and spent on cancer research over many decades, but we have not yet achieved success in curing it. Although another small step, it was found that a molecule in the parasitic Himalayan caterpillar fungus kills tumor cells in phase I of the clinical trial. This is another reason for hope that we will soon have a more effective cancer treatment. Unfortunately, the process of treatment of all types of cancer is very difficult due to their complexity and aggressive nature, as well as because of the exceptional adaptability of cancer cells, which are able to develop resistance to treatment, making it ineffective.

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