The current review provides an up-to-date analysis of scientific data on astaxanthin (ASX) sources and experimental studies on its health benefits as a potent antioxidant in the aging process. ASX is a liposoluble carotenoid nutrient and reddish-orange pigment, naturally synthesized by numerous microalgae, yeasts, and bacteria as secondary metabolites. Provides a reddish hue to redfish and shellfish flesh that feed on ASX-producing microorganisms. The microalga Haematococcus pluvialis is the most important source for its industrial bioproduction. Due to its strong antioxidant properties, numerous investigations reported that natural ASX is a more significant antioxidant agent than other antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene. Furthermore, several data show that ASX possesses important nutraceutical applications and health benefits, especially in healthy aging processes. However, further studies are needed for a deeper understanding of the potential mechanisms through which ASX could lead to its effective role in the healthy aging process, such as supporting brain health and skin homeostasis. This review highlights the current investigations on the effective role of ASX in oxidative stress, aging mechanisms, skin physiology, and central nervous system functioning, and shows the potential clinical implications related to its consumption.

Background: Berberine is the main active compound of different herbs and is defined as an isoquinoline quaternary botanical alkaloid found in barks and roots of numerous plants. It exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as anti-obesity and antidiabetic effects. Berberine has antibacterial activity against a variety of microbiota, including many bacterial species, protozoa, plasmodia, fungi, and trypanosomes. Objective: This review describes the role of berberine and its metabolic effects. It also discussed how it plays a role in glucose metabolism, fat metabolism, weight loss, how it modulates the gut microbiota, and what are its antimicrobial properties along with its potential side effects with maximal tolerable dosage. Methods: Representative studies were considered and analyzed from different scientific databases, including PubMed and Web of Science, for the years 1982-2022. Results: Literature analysis shows that berberine affects many biochemical and pharmacological pathways that theoretically yield a positive effect on health and disease. Berberine exhibits neuroprotective properties in various neurodegenerative and neuropsychological ailments. Despite its low bioavailability after oral administration, a plant alkaloid is a promising tool for several disorders. A possible hypothesis would be the modulation of the gut microbiome. While the evidence concerning the aging process in humans is more limited, preliminary studies have shown positive effects in several models. Conclusion: Berberine could serve as a potential candidate for the treatment of several diseases. Previous literature has provided a basis for scientists to establish clinical trials in humans. However, for obesity, the evidence appears to be sufficient for hands-on use.

According to the WHO, over 350 and 250 million individuals have been estimated as chronic carriers of HBV and HCV, worldwide. About 1.34 million deaths are attributed to HBV and HCV, globally. Objective: To estimate the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV-related hepatitis. Methods: For this purpose, a population of 300 individuals was screened for HBsAg and Anti-HCV antibodies. Data were collected from tested individuals included their age, gender, occupation. Prevalence of HBV and HCV was found at 10% and 14% respectively. Co-infection of both pathogens was observed in 1.33% of individuals. Male (18%) were more infected with these viruses as compared to females (6%). The highest percentage (75%) of HBV/HCV was in adult patients of age between 31-50 years. The various risk factor associated with the spread of viral hepatitis were also considered for a better understanding of the routes of spread of these viral infections. Results: Out of 300 screened individuals, 21% had a history of going through any dental procedure, followed by 17% with needle stick injuries. Only 7.6% of persons had a history of any blood transfusion. Conducting such type of seroprevalence studies can help the administration and health care authorities to take necessary control measures to minimize the chances of acquiring these infections by eliminating risk factors. Conclusion: Further, these surveillance studies can also play a significant role in the launch of vaccination programs in areas of high prevalence.