Medical University of Varna

About: Medical University of Varna is a education organization based out in Varna, Varna, Bulgaria. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Medicine. The organization has 1199 authors who have published 1273 publications receiving 32940 citations. The organization is also known as: MU-Varna & Higher Medical Institute of Varna.

Phenotypic modulation of smooth muscle cells and matrix metalloproteinases as targets for atherosclerotic plaque stabilization

Abstract: Atherosclerosis and its complications, erosion and rupture of the plaque fibrous cap, lead to myocardial infarction and stroke, the main causes of mortality worldwide In this setting, arterial smooth muscle cells (SMC) of the innermost media undergo phenotypic changes, a switch towards a secretory phenotype engaged in matrix proteins production In its nature, this is a protective action that forms of a new arterial layer, the fibrous cap covering the plaque thrombogenic lipid core The risk of plaque rupture is inversely correlated with the presence of secretory state SMC and collagen fibrils within the fibrous cap Thus, fibrous cap remodeling appears to be the main determinant of plaque vulnerability Herein, we focus on the potential role of (i) the transcription factors TCF21 and KLF-4 in SMC phenotypic modulation, (ii) the matrix protein secretion of SMC, and (iii) the activity of proteinases (MMP, ADAM, ADAMTS, furin, and the MMP inducer CD147) in this critical process We argue that focusing on these basic pathways could contribute to the knowledge of fibrous cap stability that might be translated into clinical medicine

Preoperative decompression in treatment of large cystic lesions of the jaws

Abstract: The cysts of the jaws are a common pathological process in the human organism. The aim of this study is to discuss the perspective effect of the treatment of large mandibular cysts, in which we have applied decompression as the first stage of their operative treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Subjects of the study are 11 patients with large cystic lesions of the mandible. We used the decompression method as the first stage of their operative treatment. RESULTS: The effect of the decompression was monitored radiologically. Changes in the size of the lesion and the bone density were noticed.

Neurobiology of adipose tissue

Abstract: Adipose tissue's secretory phenotype paradigm shift has been upregulating since December 1, 1994, the birthday of leptin, an endocrine signaling protein (adipokine), which triggered the development of adipoendocrinology. Today, more than hundred adipokines are identified. Here an update of adipose-derived neurotrophic factors and neuropeptides and their receptors is presented, raising a hypothesis of neuroendocrine potential of this dynamic tissue. Biomedical Reviews 2008; 19: 45-48.

One more view of neurotrophin-netrotrasmitter signaling in neurons: BDNF-AMPAR crosstalk

Abstract: Although knowing much about the neuronal life and death, we remain unsure of their exact molecular nature. As often occurs, the framework of an initial concept of the physiological role of a newly discovered molecules extends in the light of emerging findings. This is also the case with the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the neurotransmitter glutamate. Biomedical Reviews 2008; 19: 29-32.

Pregnancy and Multiple Sclerosis: Clinical Cases

Abstract: Multiple sclerosis is a disease that primarily affects people in young, active age. It is known that women are affected more often than men. It is also known that pregnancy and delivery have an impact on the development of the disease. While during pregnancy the course is more benign, relapses are rare, a severe seizure often occurs after delivery, and the degree of disability increases. It is considered no exception for the disease to be diagnosed following a first-time relapse that occurs soon after delivery. We present two cases of female patients with multiple sclerosis: one with a severe relapse and a rapid progression of the disease after delivery, and another with no such complications. The differences between the two cases are discussed, focusing on the need to inform patients with multiple sclerosis about the possible postpartum risks and the role of the healthcare professional in this process.