Journal of Clinical Research

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has spurred global efforts to develop effective vaccines and therapeutics to combat COVID-19. Critical to this endeavor is the evaluation of interventions' ability to neutralize the virus, a task accomplished through neutralization assays. This narrative review examines the diverse neutralization assays utilized in clinical trials targeting SARS-CoV-2. These assays, ranging from plaque reduction to pseudovirus and live virus assays, offer distinct advantages and considerations in terms of safety, sensitivity, and scalability. Employed in trials assessing vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, convalescent plasma, and antiviral drugs, neutralization assays provide crucial data on interventions' ability to induce neutralizing immunity, guide dose selection, assess treatment efficacy, and inform regulatory decisions. Despite their utility, challenges such as assay variability, standardization, and the emergence of viral variants persist, necessitating collaborative efforts to address these issues. Overall, neutralization assays play an indispensable role in advancing our understanding of COVID-19 interventions and guiding strategies to combat the pandemic. Continued research and standardization endeavors are imperative to optimize their performance and utility in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 and future viral threats.

Subcortical band heterotopia commonly known as double cortex syndrome, is a rare neurological disorder characterized by abnormal bands of gray matter beneath the cerebral cortex. This condition is primarily associated with mutations in the doublecortin gene, crucial for proper neuronal migration during brain development. Recent studies have highlighted the genetic basis of SBH and the diverse clinical presentations linked to new mutations in the DCX gene. This article explores the intricate relationship between genetic mutations and clinical phenotypes in SBH, emphasizing the evolving understanding of this neurodevelopmental disorder. SBH manifests a wide spectrum of neurological symptoms, ranging from mild cognitive impairments to severe epilepsy and developmental delay. Neuroimaging studies reveal variability in radiological features, reflecting differences in genetic mutations and developmental processes. While mutations in the DCX gene account for most SBH cases, genetic heterogeneity exists, with mutations in other genes also implicated. Understanding the clinical spectrum of SBH is crucial for accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and tailored management strategies, including genetic testing and neurodevelopmental interventions. In conclusion, SBH represents a complex disorder with significant phenotypic variability, influenced by mutations in the doublecortin gene and other genes involved in neuronal migration pathways. Further research into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying SBH is essential for developing targeted therapies and improving outcomes for affected individuals.

Viral respiratory infections encompass a broad spectrum of illnesses that affect the upper and lower respiratory tracts, causing symptoms ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory distress. Understanding these infections, their transmission, prevention and appropriate management strategies is crucial in reducing their impact on public health. The flu is caused by influenza viruses, leading to fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue. It can cause severe illness, especially in high-risk groups. The flu is caused by influenza viruses, leading to fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue. It can cause severe illness, especially in high-risk groups.

Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) represents a critical complication of sepsis, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality in septic patients. Emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of SIC. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the intricate interplay between mitochondria and SIC, elucidating the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic avenues. Mitochondrial dysfunction in sepsis, characterized by impaired ATP production, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, contributes to myocardial injury and dysfunction in SIC. Dysregulation of mitochondrial dynamics, biogenesis, and energy metabolism further exacerbates cardiac dysfunction in SIC. Therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondria, including mitochondria-targeted antioxidants and pharmacological agents modulating mitochondrial dynamics and biogenesis, hold promise for preserving cardiac function and improving outcomes in SIC. Continued research efforts aimed at unraveling the molecular pathways involved in mitochondrial dysfunction and exploring novel mitochondria-targeted therapies are essential for advancing our understanding and management of SIC.

The development and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines stand as a pivotal achievement in the ongoing battle against the unprecedented global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Since the emergence of the novel coronavirus, scientists, healthcare professionals and pharmaceutical companies have collaborated intensively to create safe and effective vaccines, marking a significant step in curbing the spread and impact of the virus.