18 research outputs found
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Successful open fetal resection of a pericardial teratoma: A case report
Introduction: Pericardial teratomas are rare mediastinal tumors that can lead to pericardial effusions with subsequent tamponade physiology and progression to hydrops. While overall outcomes can be favorable, prognosis is poor in the setting of hydrops, particularly at an early gestational age. Case presentation: We present a case in which a 29-year-old female presented at 26 3/7 weeks’ gestation carrying a fetus with a prenatally diagnosed pericardial teratoma. During a period of outpatient monitoring with twice-weekly ultrasounds and echocardiograms, the fetus developed a rapidly expanding pericardial effusion with cardiac compromise, prompting admission. Following admission, the fetus developed early signs of hydrops including ascites and pulmonary effusions at 27 6/7 weeks, and after a multidisciplinary discussion underwent open fetal resection two days later. This resulted in the resolution of hydrops with delivery at 29 3/7 weeks and ultimately neonatal survival without the need for any additional postnatal procedures. Conclusion: In this case report, we discuss current fetal interventions utilized in the management of pericardial teratomas, including the few prior attempts at open fetal resection. We also highlight the potential benefit of open fetal resection in the setting of early hydrops to optimize further in-utero development while simultaneously addressing the tamponade physiology of pericardial teratomas that can lead to hydrops and fetal demise. Here, we demonstrate that open fetal resection is a feasible and effective treatment option for carefully selected patients with pericardial teratomas, particularly in the setting of early hydrops. © 2023 The AuthorsOpen access journalThis item from the UA Faculty Publications collection is made available by the University of Arizona with support from the University of Arizona Libraries. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected]
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Assessing the bio-stability of microRNA-146a conjugated nanoparticles via electroanalysis
The number of diabetics is increasing worldwide and is associated with significant instances of clinical morbidity. Increased amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and proinflammatory cytokines are associated with the pathogenesis of diabetic wounds and result in a significant delay in healing. Our previous studies have shown the ability of a cerium oxide nanoparticle (CNP) formulation conjugated with the anti-inflammatory microRNA miR146a (CNP-miR146a) to enhance the healing of diabetic wounds. The observed therapeutic activity exceeded the combined efficacies of the individual conjugate components (CNPs and miR146a alone), suggesting a synergistic effect. The current study evaluates whether the previously observed enhanced activity arises from increased agent delivery (simple nanocarrier activity) or is specific to the CNP-miR146a formulation (functional, bio-active nanomaterial). Comparison with miR146a conjugated gold (bioactive, metal) and silica (bioinert, oxide) nanoparticles (AuNPs and SiO2NPs) was performed in the presence of H2O2, as an analogue to the high levels of ROS present in the diabetic wound environment. Electrochemical studies, materials characterization, and chemical assays showed limited interaction of AuNP-miR146a with H2O2 and instability of SiO2NP-miR146a over time. In contrast, and in support of our prior results, CNP-miR146a displayed chemical stability and persistent ROS scavenging ability. Furthermore, it was determined that CNPs protect miR146a from oxidative damage under prolonged exposure to H2O2, whereas AuNPs and SiO2NPs were shown to be ineffective. Overall, these results reinforce the ability of CNPs to stabilize and protect miRNA while exhibiting robust antioxidant properties, suggesting that therapeutic activity observed in related earlier studies is not limited to a facile nanocarrier function. © 2023 RSC.Open access journalThis item from the UA Faculty Publications collection is made available by the University of Arizona with support from the University of Arizona Libraries. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected]