1.MicroRNA and Their Potential Role in Conjunctival Disorders
Nazmul Huda SYED ; Embong ZUNAINA ; Shahidan WAN-NAZATUL SHIMA ; Malvika SHARMA ; Ismail SHATRIAH
Korean Journal of Ophthalmology 2022;36(5):452-462
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the small noncoding RNA molecules which regulate target gene expression posttranscriptionally. They are known to regulate key cellular processes like inflammation, cell differentiation, cell proliferation, and cell apoptosis across various ocular diseases. Due to their easier access, recent focus has been laid on the investigation of miRNA expression and their involvement in several conjunctival diseases. The aim of this narrative review is to provide understanding of the miRNAs and describe the current role of miRNAs as the mediators of the various conjunctival diseases. A literature search was made using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for studies involving miRNAs in the conjunctival pathological conditions. Original articles in the last 10 years involving both human and animal models were included. Literature search retrieved 27 studies matching our criteria. Pertaining to the numerous literatures, there is a strong correlation between miRNA and the various pathological conditions that occur in the conjunctiva. miRNAs are involved in various physiological processes such as cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, development, and inflammation by regulating various signaling pathways, genes, proteins, and mediators. Pterygium was the most studied conjunctival disease for miRNA involvement, whereas miRNA research in allergic conjunctivitis is still in its early stages. Our review provides deep insights into the various miRNAs playing an important role in the various conjunctival diseases. miRNAs do have the potential to serve as noninvasive biomarkers with diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications. However, multitudinous studies are required to validate miRNAs as the reliable biomarkers in conjunctival pathologies and its targeted therapy.
2.Malaysian Herbs in Contraception: Public Perception (Herba Malaysia dalam Kontrasepsi: Persepsi Masyarakat)
WAN NAZATUL SHIMA SHAHIDAN ; TUAN NADRAH NAIM TUAN ISMAIL ; KANNAN THIRUMULU PONNURAJ
Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences 2022;20(No.1):129-137
Medicinal plants have been used in Malaysia for a long time ago. These plants have been marketed as herbal product
and used in the traditional healthcare system because of its positive therapeutic effects. This paper discusses particularly
several types of Malaysian herbs that are traditionally used for contraception and scientific studies related to its
pharmaceutical properties showing its use among the public for its anti-fertility effects. Even though several methods of
contraception have been promoted for family planning, yet, the perception of the public on the usage of synthetic
steroidal contraceptives due to its serious adverse effects has made them focus on indigenous plants. Contraceptives
drug-containing oestrogen and progesterone have proven to be effective and popular, However, the side effects of these
drugs have sparked the idea of scientists to develop newer molecules from medicinal plants. Therefore, it is necessary
to investigate in-depth qualitative research on conceptions and concerns about traditional contraceptive methods using
herbal ingredients among Malaysians.