7 Key Insights into Cancer and Degenerative Diseases

Cancer and degenerative diseases remain significant global health challenges, demanding innovative approaches in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The College of Graduate Studies at Walailak University has established itself as a leading institution in medical research, particularly in the study of cancer and degenerative diseases. The Ph.D. faculty at Walailak University specialize in areas such as oxidative stress, cellular signaling, and molecular pathology, producing high-impact research that advances the understanding of these complex conditions. This article presents seven key insights into cancer and degenerative diseases, drawing on the expertise and research contributions of Walailak University’s distinguished scholars.

1. Oxidative Stress as a Driver of Cancer and Degenerative Diseases

Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, plays a crucial role in cancer progression and neurodegeneration. Faculty members at Walailak University have conducted research on oxidative stress markers and their implications for disease progression, particularly in oral squamous cell carcinoma and neurodegenerative disorders. Their findings contribute to the development of antioxidant-based therapeutic strategies.

2. Molecular Signaling Pathways in Disease Progression

The activation of key molecular pathways, such as NF-κB, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt, influences both cancer metastasis and neurodegenerative disease progression. Studies conducted at Walailak University have examined how bioactive compounds, such as natural plant extracts, can modulate these pathways to inhibit inflammatory responses and cellular damage, presenting potential therapeutic targets.

3. Chronic Inflammation as a Common Underlying Factor

Inflammation is a hallmark of both cancer and degenerative diseases, exacerbating cellular damage and promoting disease progression. Ph.D. researchers at Walailak University have explored anti-inflammatory compounds that target pro-inflammatory cytokines and transcription factors, offering promising alternatives for reducing inflammation-related disease risk.

4. The Role of Heme Oxygenase-1 in Disease Mitigation

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) has emerged as a critical protective enzyme against oxidative stress and inflammation. Recent studies from Walailak University have demonstrated its role in mitigating alcoholic liver disease and neurodegenerative conditions, providing insight into its therapeutic potential for broader disease management strategies.

5. Metabolic Alterations and Cancer Cell Aggressiveness

Cancer cells exhibit altered metabolism to sustain rapid proliferation and resist apoptosis. Researchers at Walailak University have studied metabolic changes in aggressive cancer cell lines, particularly in relation to ROS reduction and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. Their findings contribute to targeted metabolic interventions in cancer therapy.

6. Neuroprotective Effects of Natural Compounds

Natural bioactive compounds have gained attention for their neuroprotective properties. Studies at Walailak University have investigated the effects of plant-derived molecules on neuronal survival, cognitive function, and brain inflammation. These findings offer promising avenues for developing phytochemical-based interventions for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

7. Innovative Approaches to Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Early detection remains critical for managing both cancer and degenerative diseases effectively. Faculty at Walailak University are actively involved in developing diagnostic biomarkers and novel imaging techniques that enhance early disease identification. Their interdisciplinary research integrates biochemistry, molecular biology, and advanced imaging technologies to improve clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

The Ph.D. faculty at the College of Graduate Studies, Walailak University, are at the forefront of research on cancer and degenerative diseases, contributing valuable insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies. Their expertise in oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic regulation, and molecular signaling pathways underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in tackling these health challenges. Through continuous research and innovation, Walailak University remains committed to advancing medical science and improving global health outcomes.

Articles

Effects of Ceftriaxone on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in a Rat Model of Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion

Ceftriaxone (CTX) exerts a neuroprotective effect by decreasing glutamate excitotoxicity. We further studied the underlying mechanisms and effects of CTX early post-treatment on behavior in a cerebral hypoperfusion rats. The rats’ common carotid arteries (2VO) were permanently ligated. CTX was treated after ischemia. Biochemical studies were performed to assess antioxidative stress and inflammation. Behavioral and histological studies were then tested on the ninth week after vessel ligation. The 2VO rats showed learning and memory deficits as well as working memory impairments without any motor weakness….

Heme oxygenase-1 alleviates alcoholic liver steatosis: Histopathological study

Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the most important causes of hepatic steatosis, which involves oxidative stress. In particular, increased oxidative stress has been strongly linked to stimulation of the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). This study aimed to investigate whether HO-1 could alleviates alcoholic steatosis in rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: 1) the control group, 2) the EtOH group, 3) the EtOH + ZnPP-IX group and 4) the EtOH + Hemin group. Liver histopathology was investigated in weeks 1 and 4 after the start of the treatment period. Alcohol treatment significantly increased the hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, an oxidative stress marker….

Research

Oxocrebanine from Stephania pierrei exerts macrophage anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating the NF-κB, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt signalling pathways

Plant-derived medicinal compounds are increasingly being used to treat acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, which are generally caused by aberrant inflammatory responses. Stephania pierrei Diels, also known as Sabu-lueat in Thai, is a traditional medicinal plant that is used as a remedy for several inflammatory disorders. Since aporphine alkaloids isolated from S. pierrei tubers exhibit diverse pharmacological characteristics, we aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of crude extracts and alkaloids isolated from S. pierrei tubers against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW264.7 macrophages….

Reduction of intracellular-reactive oxygen species and diminished mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activation are associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma cell aggressiveness

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a serious health problem in many countries. Several drugs have been used to treat head and neck and oral cavity cancers. However, the success rate has not been impressive because of the heterogeneity of cancerous cells, resulting in differential responsiveness to chemotherapy. Two distinct phenotypes of OSCC cells, the CLS-354/WT and CLS-354/DX cells, have been used as in vitro cell models for this study. CLS-354/DX cells were more aggressive than CLS-354/WT cells, supported by the observation that CLS-354/DX cells can undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), grow anchorage-independently, and increase invasiveness….

Biochemistry of Cancer and Degenerative Diseases

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