Konkuk University

About: Konkuk University is a education organization based out in Seoul, South Korea. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Apoptosis. The organization has 13405 authors who have published 27027 publications receiving 506313 citations.

Ultrasonography Diagnosis and Imaging-Based Management of Thyroid Nodules: Revised Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology Consensus Statement and Recommendations

Abstract: The rate of detection of thyroid nodules and carcinomas has increased with the widespread use of ultrasonography (US), which is the mainstay for the detection and risk stratification of thyroid nodules as well as for providing guidance for their biopsy and nonsurgical treatment. The Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology (KSThR) published their first recommendations for the US-based diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules in 2011. These recommendations have been used as the standard guidelines for the past several years in Korea. Lately, the application of US has been further emphasized for the personalized management of patients with thyroid nodules. The Task Force on Thyroid Nodules of the KSThR has revised the recommendations for the ultrasound diagnosis and imaging-based management of thyroid nodules. The review and recommendations in this report have been based on a comprehensive analysis of the current literature and the consensus of experts.

The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the Biological Activities of Metallic Nanoparticles

Abstract: Nanoparticles (NPs) possess unique physical and chemical properties that make them appropriate for various applications. The structural alteration of metallic NPs leads to different biological functions, specifically resulting in different potentials for the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The amount of ROS produced by metallic NPs correlates with particle size, shape, surface area, and chemistry. ROS possess multiple functions in cellular biology, with ROS generation a key factor in metallic NP-induced toxicity, as well as modulation of cellular signaling involved in cell death, proliferation, and differentiation. In this review, we briefly explained NP classes and their biomedical applications and describe the sources and roles of ROS in NP-related biological functions in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we also described the roles of metal NP-induced ROS generation in stem cell biology. Although the roles of ROS in metallic NP-related biological functions requires further investigation, modulation and characterization of metallic NP-induced ROS production are promising in the application of metallic NPs in the areas of regenerative medicine and medical devices.

Review of the Isolation, Characterization, Biological Function, and Multifarious Therapeutic Approaches of Exosomes

Abstract: Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that contain a specific composition of proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA. They are derived from endocytic membranes and can transfer signals to recipient cells, thus mediating a novel mechanism of cell-to-cell communication. They are also thought to be involved in cellular waste disposal. Exosomes play significant roles in various biological functions, including the transfer of biomolecules such as RNA, proteins, enzymes, and lipids and the regulation of numerous physiological and pathological processes in various diseases. Because of these properties, they are considered to be promising biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of various diseases and may contribute to the development of minimally invasive diagnostics and next generation therapies. The biocompatible nature of exosomes could enhance the stability and efficacy of imaging probes and therapeutics. Due to their potential use in clinical applications, exosomes have attracted much research attention on their roles in health and disease. To explore the use of exosomes in the biomedical arena, it is essential that the basic molecular mechanisms behind the transport and function of these vesicles are well-understood. Herein, we discuss the history, biogenesis, release, isolation, characterization, and biological functions of exosomes, as well as the factors influencing their biogenesis and their technical and biological challenges. We conclude this review with a discussion on the future perspectives of exosomes.

Toxicity and bioavailability of copper nanoparticles to the terrestrial plants mung bean (Phaseolus radiatus) and wheat (Triticum aestivum): plant agar test for water-insoluble nanoparticles.

Abstract: Because of their insolubility in water, nanoparticles have a limitation concerning toxicity experiments. The present study demonstrated a plant agar test for homogeneous exposure of nanoparticles to plant species. The effect of Cu nanoparticles on the growth of a plant seedling was studied, and bioaccumulation of nanoparticles was investigated. All tests were conducted in plant agar media to prevent precipitation of water-insoluble nanoparticles in test units. The plant species were Phaseolus radiatus (mung bean) and Triticum aestivum (wheat). Growth inhibition of a seedling exposed to different concentrations of Cu nanoparticles was examined. Copper nanoparticles were toxic to both plants and also were bioavailable. The 2-d median effective concentrations for P. radiatus and T. aestivum exposed to Cu nanoparticles were 335 (95% confidence level, 251-447) and 570 (450-722) mg/L, respectively. Phaseolus radiatus was more sensitive than T. aestivum to Cu nanoparticles. A cupric ion released from Cu nanoparticles had negligible effects in the concentration ranges of the present study, and the apparent toxicity clearly resulted from Cu nanoparticles. Bioaccumulation increased with increasing concentration of Cu nanoparticles, and agglomeration of particles was observed in the cells using transmission-electron microscopy-energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The present study demonstrated that the plant agar test was a good protocol for testing the phytotoxicity of nanoparticles, which are hardly water soluble.