Archives of Surgical Oncology

Neovascular-associated retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, are leading causes of vision loss worldwide. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) plays a critical role in angiogenesis, making it an attractive therapeutic target for these diseases. In this study, we developed an Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV)-based fusion protein specifically targeting human VEGFR-2 domains to evaluate its efficacy in treating neovascular-associated retinal diseases in mice. The AAV-based fusion protein was designed to consist of a Single-Chain Antibody Fragment (scFv) derived from a high-affinity VEGFR-2 antibody, fused with a potent anti-angiogenic peptide. The scFv component enabled specific binding to VEGFR-2, while the anti-angiogenic peptide aimed to inhibit downstream signaling pathways involved in angiogenesis. The fusion protein was packaged into an AAV vector for efficient delivery to retinal cells.

Breast cancer is a global health concern affecting millions of women worldwide. While the importance of early detection and awareness campaigns is well-established, recent studies have shed light on the disparities in symptom recognition among women at higher breast cancer risk. Additionally, education has emerged as a crucial factor in improving awareness of breast cancer symptoms. This article aims to explore the relationship between breast cancer risk, education, and the recognition of non-lump symptoms among women, highlighting the implications for early detection and improved outcomes. Research indicates that women at higher risk of breast cancer often display poorer recognition of non-lump symptoms associated with the disease. While lumps remain the most widely recognized symptom, there is a concerning lack of awareness regarding other signs, such as breast pain, nipple changes, skin dimpling, and discharge. This knowledge gap poses a significant challenge to early detection and timely intervention, as these non-lump symptoms can be indicative of underlying breast cancer.