Publications by authors named "Clarissa Z Kera"
Background: We aimed to evaluate the ascorbic acid concentration in secondary aqueous humour (AH) from glaucomatous patients and to compare it with primary AH from primary open-angle glaucoma patients and non-glaucomatous patients.
Methods: Primary AH samples were prospectively obtained from clinically uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma patients and senile cataract patients (controls) prior to trabeculectomy and cataract surgery. Secondary AH samples were obtained from eyes with previous intraocular surgery, prior to trabeculectomy or cataract surgery.
Article Synopsis
- Exposure to UV radiation increases the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are enzymes that break down cellular structures, making them targets for therapeutic interventions.
- The study investigated the effects of the plant Pothomorphe umbellata's ethanolic root extract on two specific MMPs, MMP-2 and MMP-9, finding that the extract inhibited these enzymes more effectively than the isolated active compound 4-nerolidylcatechol (4-NC).
- Results demonstrated that P. umbellata could inhibit MMP-9 activity in vivo after UVB exposure, supporting its potential use in preventing skin damage and possibly treating skin cancer.
Article Synopsis
- Pothomorphe umbellata, known for its antioxidant and photoprotective properties, is being considered for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications due to the compound 4-nerolidylcathecol (4-NC) found in its roots.
- The study assessed the photostability, chemical stability, and SPF of P. umbellata root extract in a gel formulation using high-performance liquid chromatography and UV spectrophotometry.
- Results showed that 4-NC remained stable at lower temperatures but degraded at 45°C; after UV exposure, its SPF was low (3.35), indicating that its antioxidant effects are more significant than its sun protection capabilities.