Background Tenogenesis and tendon homeostasis are guided by genes encoding for the structural molecules of tendon fibres. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), acting on gene regulation, can therefore participate in the process of tendon healing. Sources of data A systematic search of different databases to October 2020 identified 17 suitable studies. Areas of agreement SiRNAs can be useful to study reparative processes of tendons and identify possible therapeutic targets in tendon healing. Areas of controversy Many genes and growth factors involved in the processes of tendinopathy and tendon healing can be regulated by siRNAs. It is however unclear which gene silencing determines the expected effect. Growing points Gene dysregulation of growth factors and tendon structural proteins can be influenced by siRNA. Areas timely for developing research It is not clear whether there is a direct action of the siRNAs that can be used to facilitate the repair processes of tendons.
Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has unclear pathogenesis, but the molecules that feed its inflammatory state are known. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are useful to identify molecular targets and evaluate the efficacy of specific drugs, and can themselves be used for therapeutic purposes. Sources of data A systematic search of different databases to March 2022 was performed to define the role of siRNAs in RA therapy. Twenty suitable studies were identified. Areas of agreement Small interfering RNAs can be useful in the study of inflammatory processes in RA, and identify possible therapeutic targets and drug therapies. Areas of controversy Many genes and cytokines participate in the inflammatory process of RA and can be regulated with siRNA. However, it is difficult to determine whether the responses to siRNAs and other drugs studied in human cells in vitro are similar to the responses in vivo. Growing points Inflammatory processes can be affected by the gene dysregulation of siRNAs on inflammatory cytokines. Areas timely for developing research To date, it is not possible to determine whether the pharmacological response of siRNAs on cells in vitro would be similar to what takes place in vivo for the diseases studied so far.
Background Pertrochanteric fractures of the femur in the elderly are very common. As the average age of the population increases, the incidence of such fractures also raises, resulting in high healthcare costs. The type of surgical devices employed for their surgical management influences these costs. Methods A comparative clinical study was conducted on patients operated by one single surgeon between December 2018 and November 2020 in a high-volume regional referral centre. All patients who received a Zimmer Natural Nail (ZNN) or ELOS devices were included. Results In 119 (66.48%) of the 179 fractures, a ZNN nail was used. Post-operatively, the TAD (tip-to-apex distance) was measured at an average value of 17.05 (4.42–41.85) mm and the CalTAD (calcar-referenced TAD) at an average of 20.76 (10.82–43.63) mm. The mean hospitalization time was 10.19 (4–22) days. In the other 60 trochanteric fractures, an ELOS nail was used. Post-operative imaging indicated a TAD of 19.65 (5.08–31.4) mm and a CalTAD of 22.86 mm (12.66–33.77). The average time of the operation was 45.82 (20–110) min. The average period of hospitalization was 10.45 (5–24) days. Conclusion Both devices give similar results in terms of short-term post-operative outcome and hospitalization. The price difference between the devices does not translate in different short-term results on the operated patients.
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