REVIEW_ARTICLE Background: The John Cunningham virus (JCV), a prevalent and asymptomatic virus, can cause neurological complications, such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in immunocompromised individuals. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, with 10-15% of human cancers linked to viral infections, making JCV a significant tumor-inducing virus. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the biology of JCV, its infection mechanisms, and the pathways that may facilitate tumorigenesis. Methods: This narrative review employed a systematic approach to literature retrieval. Searches were conducted across major electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, to identify relevant publications up to early 2025. The search scope included a wide range of study designs, such as original research, reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and case reports. The search strategy utilized a combination of the following key terms: “John Cunningham virus” OR “JCV”, “JC virus”, “oncogenesis” OR “oncogenic”, “cancer development”, “infection”, and “human neoplasms.” Results: The findings indicate that JCV disrupts key cellular pathways, including p53 and retinoblastoma protein (pRB) pathways, and its genomic integration into host DNA suggests its oncogenic potential. Its mechanisms include alterations in cell cycle control and Wnt signaling, promotion of cell proliferation, and potential interaction with β-catenin, leading to various cancers. Conclusion: A better understanding of virus-related carcinogenesis could provide new targets for developing viral therapies that address not only viral infections but also cancer. http://pbr.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-690-en.pdf 2026-04-01 1 8 10.32598/PBR.12.1.1401.1 John Cunningham virus (JCV) Polyomavirus Oncogenes Retinoblastoma protein (pRB) Abolfazl Jafari-Sales a.jafari_1392@yahoo.com 1 Department of Microbiology, Kaz.C., Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5710-4076 Kosar Hosseini-Karkaj kosar22hosseini@gmail.com 2 Infectious Diseases Research Center, TaMS.C., Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1120-9665 Mehrdad Pashazadeh mehrdadpashazadeh85@gmail.com 3 Infectious Diseases Research Center, TaMS.C., Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0009-0005-0694-4592

REVIEW_ARTICLE Background: Controlled drug delivery systems (DDS) are designed to release therapeutic agents in a regulated manner to maintain consistent plasma drug concentrations. Among these systems, gastro-retentive DDS (GRDDS) have gained considerable attention due to their ability to prolong gastric residence time, thereby enhancing drug bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy for drugs absorbed primarily in the stomach or upper gastrointestinal tract. Objectives: This review aimed to critically examine the role of pectin-based polymers in the development of GRDDS, with particular emphasis on formulation strategies using high- and low-methoxylated pectins. Results: Pectin, a naturally derived polysaccharide, is widely utilized in pharmaceutical formulations owing to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxic nature, and excellent gel-forming capacity. Based on its degree of methoxylation (DM), pectin is classified into high-methoxylated and low-methoxylated forms, each exhibiting distinct physicochemical and functional properties. Low-methoxylated pectin has been extensively explored in floating DDS due to its calcium-dependent gelation behavior. In contrast, high-methoxylated pectin demonstrates strong mucoadhesive properties, making it suitable for mucoadhesive gastro-retentive formulations. Comparative studies with other natural polymers highlight the versatility of pectin in GRDDS design. Conclusion: Pectin-based gastro-retentive formulations represent a promising and sustainable approach for controlled drug delivery. Understanding the distinct characteristics of high- and low-methoxylated pectin enables the rational design of effective GRDDS, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance. http://pbr.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-722-en.pdf 2026-04-01 9 26 10.32598/PBR.12.1.1286.2 Gastro-retentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) Controlled drug delivery Pectin-based polymers High-methoxylated pectin Low-methoxylated pectin Floating DDS Mucoadhesive formulations Aeman Anis mdanisakhter5@gmail.com 1 School of Pharmacy, Techno India University, Kolkata, India. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7468-8808 Arpan Das arpandas13733@gmail.com 2 BCDA College of Pharmacy and Technology, Kolkata, India. AUTHOR Moumita Das Kirtania mmtdas@gmail.com 3 BCDA College of Pharmacy and Technology, Kolkata, India. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1236-6320 Laboni Das laboni.d@technoindiaeducation.com 4 School of Pharmacy, Techno India University, Kolkata, India. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9536-9543 Gopa Roy Biswas goparoy2020@gmail.com 5 School of Pharmacy, Techno India University, Kolkata, India. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9197-4278

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE  Background: Cisplatin (Cis), an alkylating antineoplastic agent, is commonly used to treat bladder, ovarian, and testicular cancers. Prolonged use can lead to genotoxicity, potentially mediated by oxidative stress.  Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the protective potential of atorvastatin (Atv) against Cis-induced genotoxicity in cultured human lymphocytes. Methods: Peripheral lymphocytes were divided into four groups: control, Cis (12 μM), Atv combined with Cis (50, 100, 1000 μM), and Atv alone (1000 μM). Micronucleus (MN) frequency was assessed as a marker of chromosomal damage, while glutathione (GSH) levels and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were measured to evaluate oxidative stress. Results: Cis treatment significantly increased MN frequency and LPO levels and reduced GSH compared with the control group (P<0.05). Co-treatment with Atv markedly ameliorated MN formation and oxidative stress markers, restoring GSH levels toward baseline. Notably, the protective effect was most pronounced at 50 μM Atv, consistent with a hormetic antioxidant response. Higher concentrations (100–1000 μM) did not further enhance antioxidant effects, likely due to saturation of cellular uptake or mild redox imbalance. Conclusion: Cis induces genotoxicity in human lymphocytes primarily through oxidative stress mechanisms. Atv effectively mitigates this genotoxicity by restoring redox homeostasis and enhancing chromosomal protection, with an optimal protective effect observed at intermediate concentrations. These findings suggest that Atv may have therapeutic potential to counteract Cis-induced cellular damage and support further investigation into its adjunctive use in chemotherapy. http://pbr.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-677-en.pdf 2026-04-01 27 36 10.32598/PBR.12.1.48.7 Cisplatin (Cis) Genotoxicity Lymphocytes Atorvastatin (Atv) Micronucleus (MN) test Oxidative stress Mohammad Shokrzadeh mslamuk@yahoo.com 1 Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9679-7370 Mona Modanloo dr_modanloo@yahoo.com 2 Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7526-4009 Mina Fasihbeiki mina.fasih5726@gmail.com 3 Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. AUTHOR Ehsan Zamani shadigholampour97@gmail.com 4 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2033-0683 Mona Alinia monaaliniiia@gmail.com 5 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6696-8909 Fatemeh Shaki fshaki.tox@gmail.com 6 Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5861-656X

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE Background: Plantago lanceolata L., a perennial plant of the Plantaginaceae family, is widely distributed across various regions. It is used globally for multiple purposes, including medicinal treatments, food additives, cosmetics, and industrial applications.  Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical profile of root extracts of P. lanceolata.  Methods: Antibacterial activity was assessed using petroleum ether and aqueous extracts of P. lanceolata roots. The antibacterial activity was assessed using disc diffusion and microtiter broth dilution assays to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Additionally, the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were evaluated by culturing the samples on agar media. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was also employed to identify the chemical constituents present in the extracts.  Results: The petroleum ether extract exhibited the strongest antimicrobial effect, producing an inhibition zone of 15.50 mm against Proteus vulgaris (PTCC 1182). The lowest MIC of 2 mg/mL was observed for both P. vulgaris and Bacillus cereus (ATCC 11778) with this extract, while minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values confirmed effectiveness at 3 mg/mL. Chemical analysis revealed that hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (16.15%) and hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (5.03%) were the predominant compounds in the petroleum ether extract. In contrast, the aqueous extract contained major artifactual components, such as 3-methoxy-2, 2-dimethyloxirane (30.78%).  Conclusion: P. lanceolata roots show promise as a natural antibacterial agent with potential applications across pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and medicinal industries. The antibacterial efficacy of the extracts is supported by the identification of active compounds through GC-MS analysis. http://pbr.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-696-en.pdf 2026-04-01 37 48 10.32598/PBR.12.1.1061.6 Disc diffusion method Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) Microtiter broth dilution Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain Samaneh Rahamouz-Haghighi rahamouz_haghighi.s@yahoo.com 1 Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Mashhad, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1097-9948

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE Background: The search for environmentally friendly nanomaterials with strong antimicrobial activity has generated growing interest in using plants to produce nanoparticles. Objectives: This study aimed to biosynthesize and characterize iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles stabilized by Luffa cylindrica extract and assess their antimicrobial properties.  Methods: The biosynthesized Fe2O3 nanoparticles were characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to elucidate their optical, structural, morphological, and elemental properties. Results: The formation of Fe2O3 nanoparticles was confirmed by standard absorbance at 370 nm and functional groups attributed to the capping and stabilization observed via FTIR. XRD patterns showed a crystalline rhombohedral phase, and SEM images indicated that the nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed with diameters of 20-50 nm. Nanoparticle efficacy was tested using the agar well diffusion method against a panel of gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains and fungal pathogens. The results revealed substantial dose-dependent antimicrobial activity, with greater inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, indicating potential broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.  Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of L. cylindrica-mediated Fe2O3 nanoparticles as sustainable and effective antimicrobial agents with potential application in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, and environmental fields.  http://pbr.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-707-en.pdf 2026-04-01 49 60 10.32598/PBR.12.1.1422.1 Iron oxides Nanoparticles Plant extracts Antibacterial agents Biological products Azaki Gideon Philip azakigideon@gmail.com 1 Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0009-0002-2532-9323 Adamu Makanta Salihu a.salihu@futminna.edu.ng 2 Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. AUTHOR Fadipe Labake Ajoke labake.fadipe@futminna.edu.ng 3 Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. AUTHOR Shaba Elijah Yanda elijah.shaba@futminna.edu.ng 4 Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. AUTHOR Agbai Uche Timothy ekoyanuche111@gmail.com 5 Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, United States. AUTHOR James Daniel jamesonykachi084@gmail.com 6 Wuhan Institute of Virology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. AUTHOR Suleiman Rahmat suleimanrahmat67@futminna.edu.ng 7 Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE Background: Telepharmacy is the use of telecommunication technology to remotely provide pharmacy services, such as medication review, drug therapy monitoring, and patient counseling. It is particularly important for individuals who are physically or geographically isolated from pharmacies, such as those living in rural areas or with disabilities. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of telepharmacy has increased dramatically. However, the use of technology without considering its ethical dimensions can have negative consequences.  Objectives: This study aimed to explore the ethical dimensions of telepharmacy through focus group discussion (FGD). Methods: In this study, 15 experienced and knowledgeable pharmacists in the field of telepharmacy were selected and engaged in focused group discussions in three five-person sessions lasting 60-90 minutes. Subsequently, the ethical concerns raised by the participants about telepharmacy services were extracted and analyzed. After data analysis, results on the ethical dimensions of telepharmacy and suggested strategies to address these issues were reported.  Results: After a thorough analysis of the participants’ comments, we identified 10 general themes and their subcategories related to the ethical dimensions of telepharmacy. Throughout the discussions, we identified that the most controversial themes were broadly classified into four key ethical dimensions: patient-pharmacist relationship, privacy and data, impersonal care, and access disparities. Conclusion: Based on focus-group data from practicing pharmacists in Iran, we identified three empirically grounded ethical priorities for clinical telepharmacy: protecting the therapeutic pharmacist–patient relationship, ensuring data privacy and security, and clarifying professional liability. We recommend standardized informed-consent templates, platform security certification, and regulatory guidance to address these priorities. http://pbr.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-728-en.pdf 2026-04-01 61 70 10.32598/pbr.12.1.61 Telepharmacy Telemedicine Ethics Pharmacy Elnaz Zoghi elnaz.zoghii@gmail.com 1 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5262-0218 Saeed Mohammad Soleymani mamsoloni@gmail.com 2 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1462-3930 Hadi Esmaily esmaily_hadi@sbmu.ac.ir 3 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6915-6028