Viral, Parasitic, Bacterial, and Fungal Infections

Antimicrobial, Host Defense, and Therapeutic Strategies

1st Edition - October 15, 2022
Editors: Debasis Bagchi, Amitava Das, Bernard William Downs
Language: English
Paperback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 3 2 3 - 8 5 7 3 0 - 7
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 3 2 3 - 8 9 8 0 0 - 3

Viral, Parasitic, Bacterial, and Fungal Infections: Antimicrobial, Host Defense, and Therapeutic Strategies highlight diverse types of infections, including viral, bacterial… Read more

Purchase options

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Innovate. Sustain. Transform.

Save up to 30% on top Physical Sciences & Engineering titles!

Explore today

Physical science & engineering for sustainable development book covers

Institutional subscription on ScienceDirect

Request a sales quote

Viral, Parasitic, Bacterial, and Fungal Infections: Antimicrobial, Host Defense, and Therapeutic Strategies highlight diverse types of infections, including viral, bacterial, parasitic, fungal, and the therapeutic efficacy of antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and other medications, nutraceuticals, and phytotherapeutics. This book addresses the molecular, pathophysiological, and cellular pathways involved in the process of infection. It also examines the host defense mechanisms modulated by innate and adaptive immunity. The book starts off with an introduction, which includes etiology, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of infections. It then goes on to cover a wide spectrum of salient features involved in viral, bacterial, parasitic, and fungal infections and effective therapeutic strategies. In addition, there is a complete section of eight chapters elaborating the detailed aspects of COVID-19 infections, Mucormycosis, Omicron, and strategic vaccines and therapeutics. The book further goes on to discuss novel antibiotics, vaccines, bromhexine, boron compounds, phytotherapeutics, and aspects on boosting immune competence. Contributed by experts in the fields of viral, parasitic, bacterial, and fungal infections, the book comprehensively details the various types of infections such as herpes and COVID-19, their molecular mechanisms, and treatment strategies for those engaged in the research of infectious diseases.

Cover image
Title page
Table of Contents
Copyright
Dedication
Contributors
Preface
Part I: Introduction
Chapter 1: Clinical applications of molecular diagnosis in infectious diseases
Abstract
Introduction
Bacteria
Viruses
Fungi
Mycobacteria
Parasites
Molecular diagnostics in special circumstances
Conclusion
References
Chapter 2: Airway mucus, infection, and therapeutic strategies
Abstract
Acknowledgment
Introduction
The mucous layer
Mucins
Mucin modifications
Cystic fibrosis
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Asthma
COVID-19
Bacterial strategies
Viral strategies
Fungal strategies
Therapies
Conclusion
References
Chapter 3: From plants to animals: A study of phytopathogenic infections
Abstract
Introduction
Nature and significance of identifying phytopathogens
Phytonoses: Phytopathogenic infections jump to humans
Indoor plants cause allergies
Prevention, treatment, and cure of phytopathogens and phytonoses
Conclusion
References
Chapter 4: Epigenetic basis of infectious diseases
Abstract
Introduction
Epigenetic regulations
Infection and host tissue epigenetics
Epigenetic basis of sepsis
Therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetics for infection
Conclusion
References
Chapter 5: Burden of infectious diseases and strategies of prevention
Abstract
Introduction
Burden and challenges
TB & COVID
HIV and COVID-19
Public health strategies to prevent spread of infectious diseases
United States of America specific efforts
Lessons learned from epidemic and pandemics
Moving forward
References
Chapter 6: Primary factors that determine the severity of various infections and effective nutraceutical intervention strategies
Abstract
Introduction
COVID 19: An overview
Mechanism and consequences of COVID-19 viral infection
The herpes virus
Candida albicans (Yeast Infections)
Concluding remarks
References
Chapter 7: Infection and obesity: Two sides of the same coin
Abstract
Introduction
Influence of obesity on infections
Influence of infections on obesity
Conclusions
References
Chapter 8: Infections in liver transplantation
Abstract
Introduction
Risk factors for infection after liver transplant
Infection timeline
Pathogen specific infections
Conclusion
References
Chapter 9: An overview of antimicrobial peptides
Abstract
Introduction
Source, structure, properties, and functions of AMPs
Classification of AMPs
Mechanism of action of AMPs
Applications of antimicrobial peptides
Conclusion
References
Chapter 10: Antimicrobial peptides: A possible strategy to combat ESKAPE pathogens
Abstract
Introduction
Epigenetic regulation of hosts by persistent pathogens
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)
Properties of AMPs for systemic clearance of MDR pathogens
Conclusion and future perspectives
References
Part II: Viral infections and therapeutics
Chapter 11: A treatise on Ebola virus
Abstract
Introduction
Microbiology and virology of Ebola virus
Epidemiology
Mode of transmission
Ebola virus disease case definition
Clinical features of Ebola virus infection
Laboratory investigations
Prevention and treatment
Ebola survivors
Conclusion
References
Chapter 12: Herpes virus and its manifestations
Abstract
Introduction
Types
Viral structure, infection, and replication
Summary
References
Chapter 13: Swine flu – An overview
Abstract
Introduction
Pathophysiology
Histopathology of lung
Structure
Life cycle of H1N1 virus
Immunity to influenza virus
Diagnostic tool
Treatment of influenza virus
Flu vaccination
Conclusion
References
Chapter 14: Avian influenza virus: Prevalence infection and therapy
Abstract
Introduction
Genomic structure of virus
Transmission to the host
Pathogenesis
Economic importance
Therapeutic strategies
Conclusion
References
Chapter 15: Mosquito defense mechanisms against medically important arboviruses: The vector-pathogen interface
Abstract
Emerging and reemerging arboviral diseases
Antiviral strategies in mosquitoes
Concluding remark
References
Chapter 16: Influenza update
Abstract
Introduction
Pathophysiology
Virology
Epidemiology and public health
Clinical presentation
Complications
Differential diagnosis
Laboratory diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Current and future research
Conclusion
References
Chapter 17: Measles: The road to eradication
Abstract
Introduction
Epidemiology
Virology and immunology
Clinical manifestations
Diagnosis
Treatment
Complications
Prevention
Current research and future eradication
Conclusion
References
Chapter 18: A paradigm of ZIKA virus infection
Abstract
Introduction
Epidemiology of ZIKV
Virology of the ZIKV
Life cycle of ZIKV
Transmission of ZIKV
Pathogenesis of ZIKV
Symptoms
Diagnosis of ZIKV
Treatment
Developments in ZIKV treatment
Prevention and management
References
Further reading
Chapter 19: Viral infection and its management
Abstract
Introduction
Breaching the first barrier: Viral entry into host cells
Stopping viruses at the door: Viral entry as therapeutic target
Establishing infection: Replication of viral genetic material
Replication of DNA viruses
Replication of RNA viruses
Viral replication compartments
Stopping the juggernaut: Viral replication as therapeutic target
Viral master manipulators: Regulation of host cell metabolism
Moving out to conquer: Viral egress
Closing the door: Targeting viral egress therapeutically
Conclusion
Glossary of terms
References
Chapter 20: Momordica charantia (bitter melon): Potent antiviral efficacy and significant benefits against herpes virus
Abstract
Introduction
Bitter melon/Momordica charantia profile
Phytochemicals possessing antiviral activity
Bitter melon with specific antiviral activities
Potent anti-HSV (herpes simplex virus) activity
Other therapeutic activities of bitter melon
Conclusion
References
Part III: COVID-19, mucormycosis, omicron, and strategic therapeutics
Chapter 21: An overview of COVID-19: An emerging infectious disease
Abstract
Introduction
Origin of the virus
Global scenario—COVID-19
Mode of transmission
Risk factors for severe COVID-19 [27,28]
Clinical features
Surveillance strategies [33]
Laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19
Research and development of medicine and vaccine for COVID-19
Infection prevention and control of healthcare personnel
Preventive measures
Preparedness of health system against COVID-19
Conclusion
References
Chapter 22: Impacts of viral pathogenesis and vaccine immunization on the host humoral immune response in SARS-CoV-2 and associated variants of concern (VOCs) infection
Abstract
Introduction
Structural organization of the virus
Phases of SARS-CoV-2 life cycle
Immune escape of SARS-CoV-2 and variants
Lymphopenia: Escaping T-cell immunity
Regulation of CD8+ T cell responses in COVID-19
Regulation of CD4+ T cell responses in COVID-19
Regulation of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells
B cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants
Current status of the vaccine performances against emerging SARS-CoV-2 VOCs
Vaccine-induced T-cell immunity against emerging SARS-CoV-2 VOCs
Vaccine-induced B-cell responses against emerging SARS-CoV-2 VOCs
Concluding remarks and future scope
References
Chapter 23: Gut microbiome and COVID-19
Abstract
Introduction
Gut microbiome
Dysbiosis and eubiosis
SARS-CoV-2 and the variants
COVID-19
Conclusions
References
Chapter 24: Human gut virome and COVID-19: Modulating the extent of infection
Abstract
Introduction
Gut-virome and its composition
Gut-virome and immune response
SARS-CoV-2 affects gut through gut-lung axis
SARS-CoV-2 and gut-virome
Therapeutic treatment and gut virome
Future prospects
References
Chapter 25: Unveiling the prevalence and impact of diabetes on COVID-19
Abstract
Introduction to SARS-CoV2: Molecular basis of its pathogenicity
COVID-19 therapy with and without hyperglycemia
Implications of climate change in COVID-19 pandemic
Concluding remarks
References
Chapter 26: The interrelation of obesity and COVID-19 in aging
Abstract
Introduction
Aging, inflaging and COVID-19
Obesity and plausibility of COVID-19
Conclusion
References
Chapter 27: Mucormycosis: Prognosis and management
Abstract
Introduction
History
Types of mucormycosis
Pathogens causing mucormycosis
Pathogenesis
Epidemiology
Clinical manifestations
Diagnosis
Treatment approaches to mucormycosis
Conclusion
References
Further reading
Chapter 28: Omicron: Mystery, history, and impact on existence
Abstract
Introduction
Structural components
Conclusion
References
Part IV: Parasitic infections and therapeutics
Chapter 29: Host immune responses against parasitic infection
Abstract
Introduction
Epidemiology
Immune response against plasmodium
Immune response against Leishmania
Complement system
Immune cells for immunity against Leishmania
Immunity against filariasis
Immunity against helminths
Conclusion
References
Chapter 30: Malaria: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutics
Abstract
Introduction
Background of the disease
Causative agent of malaria
Life cycle of a mosquito
Life cycle and taxonomic classification of Plasmodium sp.
Transmission of the disease
Types and nature of the disease
Geographical distribution
Symptoms and diagnosis of malaria
Clinical aspects
Malaria risk and prevention
Treatment
Conclusion
References
Chapter 31: Infection of the gastrointestinal tract: Giardiasis and amoebiasis
Abstract
Introduction
Conclusion
References
Chapter 32: Epidemiology and management of neurocysticercosis: An update
Abstract
Introduction
Epidemiology of neurocysticercosis
Pathology and pathogenesis
Diagnosis
Treatment
Socioeconomic challenges and neurocysticercosis eradication
Conclusion
References
Chapter 33: Treatment strategies against selected common tropical parasitic diseases
Abstract
Introduction
Chemotherapeutic agents against parasites
Challenges to chemotherapy and evolution of treatment strategies
Immunotherapy against parasitic diseases: An alternative approach
Concluding remarks
References
Chapter 34: An overview on leishmaniasis
Abstract
Introduction
Clinical presentation
Visceral leishmaniasis
PKDL
Conclusion
References
Chapter 35: Leishmaniasis: Biology, clinical diagnosis, and treatment
Abstract
Introduction
The Leishmania life cycle
Epidemiology of leishmaniasis
Clinical leishmaniasis
Diagnosis of leishmaniasis
Prevention of leishmaniasis
Treatment
References
Chapter 36: Natural products in the treatment of Leishmaniasis
Abstract
Introduction
Taxonomy, morphology, and life cycle of leishmania
Clinical manifestations of leishmaniasis
Diagnosis and detection of leishmaniasis
Current therapeutic regimen of leishmaniasis and their shortcomings
Natural products as promising alternatives for the treatment of leishmaniasis
Various plant-derived natural compounds and their mode of action
Approaches to overcome multidrug resistance (MDR) by natural antileishmanial compounds
Future perspectives and concluding remarks
References
Chapter 37: Immunomodulators: Progress and prospects in Leishmania infection
Abstract
Introduction
Leishmania species parasitic to human
Clinical classification of leishmaniasis
Available therapies and challenges
Immunomodulators as alternatives
Immunomodulators in metabolic diseases
Immunomodulators in infectious diseases
Progress of immunomodulators in leishmaniasis
Important immunomodulators and their role in leishmaniasis
Future prospects
Discussion
References
Chapter 38: Nanoparticle-based approach toward leishmaniasis treatment
Abstract
Introduction
Nanoparticle-based approaches
Conclusion
References
Chapter 39: Management of parasitic infections
Abstract
Introduction
Management
Concluding remarks
References
Part V: Bacterial infections and therapeutics
Chapter 40: Bacterial infections: Antimicrobial mechanism of action and bacterial resistance
Abstract
Acknowledgment
Introduction
Methods
Penicillin and its mechanism of action against bacteria
Metronidazole and its mechanism of action against bacteria
Quinolone and its mechanism of action against bacteria
Sulfonamide and its mechanism of action against bacteria
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics
Conclusions
References
Chapter 41: Sepsis presentation and pathophysiology
Abstract
Introduction
Etiology
Management
Outcomes
Concluding remarks
References
Chapter 42: Neonatal sepsis: Recent advances in pathophysiology and management
Abstract
Introduction
Epidemiology
Classification
Epigenetic variations
Genetic polymorphism
Diagnosis
Management
Conclusion
References
Chapter 43: An update on tuberculosis
Abstract
Introduction
Epidemiology and public health
Microbiology
Immunology
Tests and diagnostic approach
Clinical manifestations
Treatment
Current research
Conclusion
References
Chapter 44: Nutritional status in tuberculosis: A comprehensive problem to be addressed
Abstract
Introduction
Impact of nutritional deficiency on TB
Impact of TB on nutritional status
Macronutrients and micronutrients in TB
Vegetarianism
Way forward
Personalized nutrition
Conclusion
References
Chapter 45: Clostridium difficile infection and gut microbiota: From fundamentals to microbiota-centered strategies
Abstract
Introduction
Characteristic of C. difficile and C. difficile infection
Epidemiology
Gut microbiota and the maintenance of intestinal immunometabolic homeostasis
Targeting intestinal immunometabolic regulators under C. difficile infection that in turn functions under the gut microbial influence
Gut microbiota associated with CDI
Microbiota-associated risk factor for CDI
Interaction of C. difficile with gut commensals: Evidence from experimental studies
Fecal microbiota transfer in CDI
Evidence-based prophylaxis against CDI
Conclusion
References
Chapter 46: Nanoparticle-based treatment of bacterial biofilms
Abstract
Acknowledgment
Introduction
Role of antibiotics in biofilm treatment
Nanoparticle-based approaches for treating bacterial biofilms
Current strategies in biofilm treatment
Conclusion
References
Chapter 47: The NET response to biofilm infections
Abstract
Acknowledgments
Introduction
NETosis and the clearance of biofilms
Biofilms and the evasion of NETosis
Conclusions
References
Chapter 48: The challenge of pulmonary Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection: How to bridge research and clinical pathology
Abstract
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Clinical presentation and pathology
Pathogenicity
Animal models
References
Chapter 49: Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and treatment of leprosy
Abstract
Introduction
Etiology
Pathogenesis
Classification/types of leprosy
Clinical features
Diagnosis
Management of Leprosy
References
Chapter 50: Noncoding RNAs and their role in bacterial infections
Abstract
Introduction
Types of noncoding RNAs
Housekeeping ncRNAs
Regulatory ncRNAs
Role of noncoding RNAs in infections
Conclusion
References
Part VI: Fungal infections and therapeutics
Chapter 51: Fungal infection: An unrecognized threat
Abstract
Introduction
Athlete’s foot
Jock itch
Ringworm
Yeast infection
Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis)
Fungal eye infections
Blastomycosis
Cryptococcus
Paracoccidioidomycosis
Coccidioidomycosis (valley fever)
Aspergillosis
Candida auris infection
Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)
Mucormycosis
Talaromycosis
Sporotrichosis
Mycetoma
Fungal diseases and COVID-19
Preventive approach—Host defense to fungal infection
Immune response to fungi
Fungal infection threats
Drug resistance molecular mechanisms
New antifungal strategies
Conclusion
References
Part VII: Other infections
Chapter 52: Zoonosis and infectious diseases
Abstract
Introduction
Factors influencing zoonosis
Origin of COVID-19
References
Further reading
Chapter 53: Prion diseases: A rare group of neurodegenerative disorders
Abstract
Introduction
Prion disease study and its importance
Prion diseases biology and genetics
Human prion diseases
Animal prion diseases
Recent advances in prion research
Treatment for prion diseases
Conclusion
References
Chapter 54: Diabetic foot infections: An overview of pathogenesis, microbiology, and management
Abstract
Introduction
Pathogenesis of diabetic foot infection
Microbiological considerations
Severity assessment at initial evaluation
Management of diabetic foot infection
Importance issues in developing countries
Conclusion
References
Part VIII: Therapeutic interventions and strategies
Chapter 55: New antibiotics
Abstract
Introduction
Drug development process
New drug approvals
Conclusions
References
Chapter 56: Vaccines: An overview
Abstract
Introduction
Vaccine types and examples
Vaccine safety
Conclusion
References
Chapter 57: Bromhexine: Into the spotlight
Abstract
Introduction
Medicinal properties
Bromhexine
Bromhexine for treatment of COVID-19
Effect of bromhexine on endocrine system
Effect of bromhexine on lipase enzyme
Use of bromhexine in different diseases
Veternary use of bromhexine
Conclusion
References
Chapter 58: Antimicrobial (viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic) mechanisms of action of boron-containing compounds
Abstract
Introduction
Antiviral effects of boron-containing compounds
Antibacterial effects of BCC
Antifungal agents
Antiprotozoal effects of BCC
Chemical properties of some BCC proposed as antimicrobials
Concluding remarks and future perspectives
References
Part IX: Enhancing immune competence
Chapter 59: Role of natural products in infectious diseases
Abstract
Introduction
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
SARS-CoV-2
Hepatitis
Malaria
Dengue
Conclusion
References
Chapter 60: Development of biodegradable vehicles as novel therapeutic intervention against multidrug-resistant bacteria
Abstract
Introduction
Constitutional and morphological portrayals of the nano-HAP
Assurance of hydrodynamic size and surface charge of orchestrated HAP nanoparticles (NPs)
Functionalized HAP nanoparticles successfully overcome bacterial obstruction in E. faecalis
HAP@VAN@FA-specific bactericidal movement affirmed by the disc dispersion strategy
Functionalized HAPs show great bactericidal movement
HAP nanoparticles display great biocompatibility
Treatment of MDR E. faecalis with HAP@VAN@FA altogether reduces the bacterial cell’s reasonability
Systems behind the bactericidal action of functionalized HAP
Conclusion
References
Further reading
Chapter 61: Heterocyclic compounds as antimicrobial agents
Abstract
Introduction
Heterocyclic compounds with antimicrobial activities
Heterocyclic antimicrobials in clinical trials
Conclusion
References
Chapter 62: Potential role of healthy microbiome in metabolic syndrome and immune competence
Abstract
Introduction
Anatomical areas of microbiome association
Factors influencing the human microbiota
The evolution of the intestinal microbiota through aging
The human microbiome in health sustenance
The human microbiome and disease
Restoring a balanced microbiome through diet and lifestyle
Concluding remarks
References
Chapter 63: Role of nutrients in combating infection
Abstract
Introduction: Underpinning nutrition
Type of infectious diseases and influence of nutrition
Nutritional issues during major infections: Case studies
Drug–nutrition interaction during infectious disease
Conclusion
References
Chapter 64: The relevance of electrolyzed water to infectious and chronic diseases
Abstract
Introduction of electrolyzed water
History and development of electrolyzed water
The generation instrument of electrolyzed water
Acid electrolyzed water (AEW)
Weak acid electrolyzed water (WAEW)
Basic electrolyzed water (BEW)
Neutral electrolyzed water (NEW)
Factors affecting the antimicrobial properties of electrolyzed water
Mechanism and disincentive effect of electrolyzed water
Antimicrobial activity of electrolyzed water
Combination of electrolyzed water and various preservation technologies
Antifungal effect of electrolyzed water
Antivirus effect of electrolyzed water
Potential of electrolyzed water on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)
Potential of electrolyzed water for health promotion
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)
Wound healing
Antiobesity
The effects of electrolyzed water on the gut microbiota
Antitumor
Conclusions and perspective
References
Further reading
Chapter 65: Probiotics and immunity: An overview
Abstract
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Role of probiotics in gut dysbiosis
Antimicrobials and probiotics
Probiotics in cancer immunotherapy
Probiotics in autoimmune disorders
Conclusion
References
Chapter 66: Mechanisms of gastrointestinal pathogenesis and landscape of intestinal immunity
Abstract
Introduction
Mechanism of gastrointestinal pathogenesis
Escherichia coli infection
Enteropathogenic E. coli
Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli
Enterotoxic E. coli
Enteroinvasive E. coli
Enteroaggregative E. coli
Diffusely adherent E. coli
Adherent invasive E. coli
Shiga toxin producing enteroaggregative E. coli
Shigella spp.
Salmonella spp.
Yersinia spp.
Vibrio cholerae
Campylobacter spp.
Enterococcal infection
Helicobacter pylori
Entamoeba histolytica
Giardia duodenalis/Giardia lamblia
Cryptosporidium spp.
Helminth infection
Intestinal immune response against pathogenesis
Barrier effects of the gut
Role of gut epithelial cells in immune response
Role of gut-associated lymphoid tissue
Effect of antigen uptake and immune response
Role of secretory IgA
Role of functional foods on immune-boosting activity
Concluding remarks
References
Commentary: A treatise on diverse pathogenic infections and potential therapeutics
Introduction
Factors that affect changes in life expectancy
The paradigm shift in food preparation
Modernization and chronic degenerative diseases
Future perspectives and prospects
Therapeutic perspectives
Boosting immune competence
Momordica charantia (bitter melon)
Herpes viruses and L-lysine
Concluding remarks
References
Index

Debasis Bagchi

Debasis Bagchi, PhD, MACN, CNS, MAIChE, received his Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry in 1982. He is a Professor in the Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, and Chief Scientific Officer at Cepham Research Center, Piscataway, NJ, Adjunct Faculty in Texas Southern University, Houston, TX. He served as the Senior Vice President of Research & Development of InterHealth Nutraceuticals Inc, Benicia, CA, from 1998 until Feb 2011, and then as Director of Innovation and Clinical Affairs, of Iovate Health Sciences, Oakville, ON, until June 2013. Dr. Bagchi received the Master of American College of Nutrition Award in October 2010. He is the Past Chairman of International Society of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (ISNFF), Past President of American College of Nutrition, Clearwater, FL, and Past Chair of the Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods Division of Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Chicago, IL. He is serving as a Distinguished Advisor on the Japanese Institute for Health Food Standards (JIHFS), Tokyo, Japan. Dr. Bagchi is a Member of the Study Section and Peer Review Committee of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD. He has published 321 papers in peer reviewed journals, 30 books, and 18 patents. Dr. Bagchi is also a Member of the Society of Toxicology, Member of the New York Academy of Sciences, Fellow of the Nutrition Research Academy, and Member of the TCE stakeholder Committee of the Wright Patterson Air Force Base, OH. He is also Associate Editor for the Journal of Functional Foods, Journal of the American College of Nutrition, and the Archives of Medical and Biomedical Research, and is also serving as Editorial Board Member of numerous peer reviewed journals, including Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, Cancer Letters, Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, and The Original Internist, among others.

Affiliations and expertise

Professor, Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, USA; Chief Scientific Officer, Cepham Research Center, Piscataway, New Jersey; Adjunct Faculty, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA

Amitava Das

Amitava Das, PhD, is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering (ICRME), Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Das earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, respectively, from PES College of Pharmacy, Bangalore, India. He earned his PhD degree in Human Nutrition from The Ohio State University in 2016 after which he joined as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Department of Surgery at The Ohio State University Medical Center, and then moved to Indiana University in 2018. His research interests are tissue repair and regeneration in diabetes and Nutraceuticals. He has published over 20 research papers and numerous book chapters. Since 2017, Dr. Das is a member of the Editorial Board of Journal of American College of Nutrition and a Communications committee member of the Wound Healing Society. Dr. Das also serves as a reviewer for multiple prestigious journals. He has presented at various national and international conferences and is the recipient of several awards.

Affiliations and expertise

Postdoctoral Researcher, Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering (ICRME), Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA

Bernard William Downs

Bernard William (Bill) Downs received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 from Pennsylvania State University. Downs simultaneously pursued his master’s degree and Ph.D. in Nutrition and Biochemistry at Immaculata University in Immaculata, PA; advanced degree not completed. He became Director of Therapeutic Nutrition for Morrison Family and Sports Medicine, Huntingdon Valley, PA from 1990 till 1996. Downs served as the Director of Technical Sales for InterHealth Nutraceuticals Inc., Benicia, CA from 1990 till 2003. He was the Director of Research and Development for Allied Nutraceutical Research, Blue Bell, PA, from 2003 till 2008. Downs served as the CEO of LifeGen Research from 2009 till 2013, Lederach, PA. Downs is Founder and CEO of Victory Nutrition International, Inc., a Research & Development Biotech Company, Lederach, PA. Downs is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American College of Nutrition, and past member of the NY Academy of Sciences. He is on the editorial review board of the Journal of Reward Deficiency Syndrome. Downs has authored or co-authored 105 papers published in peer-reviewed journals, numerous chapters in texts and handbooks for clinicians and researchers, with patents-pending in nutraceutical biotechnology. Research publications have been on issues ranging from immunity, anemia and metabolic disorders to addictions, obsessions, compulsions, and personality disorders, among other Reward Deficiency Syndrome conditions.

Affiliations and expertise

Founder, Victory Nutrition International, Inc., Lederach, Pennsylvania; CEO,Victory Nutrition International, Inc., Lederach, Pennsylvania, USA

Life Sciences

Physical Sciences & Engineering

Social Sciences & Humanities

Health

Viral, Parasitic, Bacterial, and Fungal Infections

Antimicrobial, Host Defense, and Therapeutic Strategies

Purchase options

Innovate. Sustain. Transform.

Institutional subscription on ScienceDirect

Debasis Bagchi

Amitava Das

Bernard William Downs