Metformin targets multiple signaling pathways in cancer

Metformin,an inexpensive and well-tolerated oral agent commonly used in the first-line treatment of type 2 diabetes,has become the focus of intense research as a candidate anticancer agent.Here,we discuss the potential of metformin in cancer therapeutics,particularly its functions in multiple signaling pathways,including AMP-activated protein kinase,mammalian target of rapamycin,insulin-like growth factor,c-Jun N-terminal kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase(p38 MARK),human epidermal growth factor receptor-2,and nuclear factor kappaB pathways.In addition,cutting-edge targeting of cancer stem cells by metformin is summarized.

In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Galla Chinensis Combined with Different Antibacterial Drugs against Carbapenem-Resistant E.Coli

Objective:To evaluate the antibacterial effects of meropenem and levofloxacin respectively combined with Galla chinensis on carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli in vitro.Methods:The protocol was designed with checkerboard method and the carbapenem-resistant E.coli was isolated in our hospital.The minimum inhibitory concentrations(MICs)of G.chinensis alone and combined with 2 antimicrobial agents against carbapenem-resistant E.coli were determined by broth dilution method and the fractional inhibitory concentration index(FICI)was calculated according to MICs results.Result:the combined use of G.chinensis and meropenem(or levofloxacin)significantly decreased both MIC50 and MIC90;After the combination of G.chinensis and meropenem,the synergistic effect was 86.7%,and the additive effect was 13.3%,no irrelevant and antagonistic effects.After combined use of G.chinensis and levofloxacin,the synergistic effect was 66.7%,and the additive effect was 33.3%.No irrelevant and antagonistic effects.Conclusion:Galla chinensis combined with meropenem or levofloxacin has synergistic and additive antibacterial effect,with certain combined antibacterial activity.

Combined Detection of Mean Platelet Volume and Immunoglobins as a Strategy for the Diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Objective:To explore the possibility of diagnosing and monitoring patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)using the combination of mean platelet volume(MPV)and routine immunoglobulin test.Methods:116 patients with SLE were divided into 3 groups according to their clinical characteristics,including 29 patients with renal impairment,44 cases of active stage and 43 cases of inactive patients.40 healthy subjects were randomly selected as controls.Subjects were tested for routine blood test and plasma Immunoglobins,such as IgG,IgA,IgM,C3,C4,CH50,CRP.The results were analyzed and the characteristics of each group of subjects were determined,the correlation between test results and diagnosis were studied.Results:In comparison to the control group,the serum level of MPV,C3 and C4 were decreased(P<0.05),and C reactive protein level was elevated(P<0.001)in the three groups of SLE patients.The IgG level in active and inactive SLE patients was increased(P<0.0001),CH50 level was decreased in patients with inactive SLE(P<0.05),IgA level of active SLE subjects was found to be elevated(P<0.05),IgM in patients with renal impairment was decreased(P<0.05).Other than that,no other significant characteristic were found.Conclusion:The pathogenesis of SLE is a complex process involving multiple factors.The changes of MPV,IgG,IgA,IgM,C3,C4,CH50 and CRP in SLE patients are characteristic parameters.The combination of the above indicators can help to determine the diagnosis and staging of SLE.The timely diagnosis and treatment of SLE patients has important clinical significance in protecting the organ function of SLE patients and improving the prognosis.