Molecular Medicine, Plant Science, Pharmacology, Cancer Research
14
Scopus Publications
101
Scholar Citations
4
Scholar h-index
3
Scholar i10-index
Scopus Publications
Nanoparticle-Based Radiosensitization in Breast Cancer: A Multimodal Approach to Therapy and Immune Regulation Saleh A. S. AlAbdulhadi, Ali A. Majeed, Djamila Polatova, Muath Suliman, G. PadmaPriya, Karthikeyan Jayabalan, Vimal Arora, Priya Priyadarshini Nayak, REYADH R AL‐RASHIDI, Wesam R. Kadhum Biotechnology Journal, 2026 Radiotherapy is essential for breast cancer treatment, especially after lumpectomy. Its effectiveness, however, is hindered by tumor resistance, which causes recurrence and poorer outcomes. In the last decade, nanoparticle‐mediated radiosensitization has emerged as a promising strategy to improve radiotherapy in breast cancer. Metal nanoparticles, such as gold, silver, platinum, and bismuth, increase the localized radiation dose through secondary electron emission and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). Polymeric, liposomal, and hydrogel nanocarriers deliver radiosensitizers directly to tumors with sustained release. These features increase cytotoxicity and reduce hypoxia‐related radioresistance. Nanoparticles also inhibit DNA repair pathways and modulate the tumor microenvironment, which enhances the radiation response. Additionally, nanoparticles can boost the effects of immunotherapy by activating dendritic cells, strengthening immune checkpoint blockade, and promoting anti‐tumor immune memory. Recent preclinical studies have shown that combining nanoparticles loaded with natural compounds, such as curcumin, polyphenols, flavonoids, and metformin, increases oxidative stress and radiosensitivity in breast tumors while sparing healthy tissue. We provide an overview of nanoparticle‐mediated radiosensitization mechanisms and novel supporting approaches for achieving better tumor responses with reduced toxicity.
Antibacterial activity of peptide derivatives of dermaseptins against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermis Houda Haddad, Reyadh R. AL-Rashidi, Ahmed Loghmari, Wissal Sahtout, Raja Boukadida, Rihem Dahmene, Emeny Ettouil, Houcemeddine Othman, Ines Ouahchi, Amira Zaϊri Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports, 2026 The emergence of infections caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria (MDR) to antibiotic treatments poses a significant challenge in the healthcare field. Indeed, the resistance of MDR such as: Klebsiella pneumonia and Staphyloccus epidermidis to antibiotics has become an increasingly concerning issue, especially in hospital settings, necessitating the development of new therapies and more potent antimicrobial agents. Although numerous conventional antibiotic agents have been developed in recent years, but many of them still present toxicity to eukaryotic cells, despite their significant efficacy against multi-resistant microorganisms. Therefore, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), particularly, dermaseptins (DRSs), are considered promising candidates against MDR, mainly due to their low toxicity and their different mode of action compared to conventional antibiotics. Indeed, these peptides are generally less likely to lead to the resistance phenomena observed for traditional antibiotics. The objectives of this study were to examine the physicochemical and structural properties of peptide derivatives of dermaseptin S4 and B2, and to ascertain their antibacterial potency against Staphylococcus epidermis and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The dermaseptin peptide derivatives used in this study were K 4 K 20 S4, K 4 S4(1–16), B2 and K 3 K 4 B2. In this research, we describe the synthesis and the bioactivity of DRSs and their derivatives against Staphylococcus epidermis and Klebsiella pneumoniae . The cytotoxicity of these compounds was investigated on the HEp-2 cell line by MTT cell viability assay. The cytotoxicity of DRSs was concentration-dependent at microgram concentrations. It was observed that all tested analogs exhibited antibacterial activity with Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) ranging from 6.25 to 25 μg/ml and Minimum Bactericidal Concentrations (MBCs) ranging from 12.5 to 50 μg/ml. In summary, these findings indicate that dermaseptins could serve as promising lead compounds for the development of potent antibacterial agents targeting infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermidis . • S4 are more active than B2: at low doses in μg/ml against both bacteria strains. • All analogs antibacterial activity with (MICs 6.25 to 25 μg/mL ; MBCs 12.5 to 50 μg/mL). • The cytotoxicity of DRSs was concentration-dependent at microgram concentrations. • Increasing positive charges via mono- or bi-substitution improves biological activity and reduces cytotoxicity.
Metabolite Profiling and Anticancer Evaluation of Iraqi Haloxylon articulatum Halophyte via LC–HRMS/MS, Molecular Docking, and ADMET Analysis Jihen Abidi, Amal Ben Hassena, Rania Ben Hmida, Łukasz Kulinowski, Erdi Can Aytar, Reyedh R. Al‐Rashidi, Mohamed Bouaziz Chemistry and Biodiversity, 2026 Traditional medicinal plants are valuable sources of bioactive compounds used for therapeutic purposes. Haloxylon articulatum , a halophyte adapted to arid climate, has been consumed to treat several health issues. This study explores the phytochemical richness, the antioxidant, and the anticancer activities of a hydroalcoholic extract of H. articulatum through liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS/MS), 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) analysis, cytotoxicity testing, and computational analysis. Alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids were among numerous bioactive chemicals found within the extracts. The DPPH assay revealed a notable antioxidant activity. Using the cytotoxicity test, the major phytochemicals, N ‐caffeoyltyramine and sinapoyltyramine, exhibited anticancer activity against gastric cancer cell lines AGS and NCI‐N87, with IC 50 values ranging from 49.33 to 82 µmol/L. These activities were significantly enhanced in combination treatments with the standard reference, cisplatin. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated the presence of significant interactions between these compounds and the key cancer‐related protein; the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase, indicating their ability to inhibit tumor cells proliferation. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) analysis further showed promising pharmacological profiles, confirming the potential of N ‐caffeoyltyramine and sinapoyltyramine as effective natural anticancer drugs. This research provided novel insights, supported for the first time by in silico investigations, into the medicinal potential of the plant, highlighting its prospects for the development of natural anticancer drugs.
Phytochemical Characterization and Anti-Helicobacter pylori Potential of Haloxylon articulatum Extracts: Antioxidant Activity and Molecular Docking Insights Reyadh Al-Rashidi, Hana Nasrallah, Amal Bouazzi, Amira Zaïri Molecules, 2025 Haloxylon articulatum is traditionally used for treating infections, digestive issues, and oxidative stress. Despite its ethnopharmacological relevance, its phytochemistry and biological activities, particularly in Iraq, are underexplored. This study investigated the phytochemical composition of H. articulatum extracts and evaluated their antioxidant and anti-Helicobacter pylori activities, supported by molecular docking and in silico ADMET analysis. Methanol/water and ethyl acetate extracts from roots and aerial parts were analyzed using LC-HRMS/MS. Antioxidant capacity was measured via DPPH assay, and anti-H. pylori activity was assessed using broth microdilution. Molecular docking targeted bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, and ADMET predictions were carried out with SwissADME and ADMETlab. Phytochemical profiling identified 32 compounds, including phenolamides, flavonoids, alkaloids, and triterpenoid glycosides. Root extracts exhibited stronger antioxidant and antibacterial effects than aerial parts. Ethyl acetate extracts were inactive. Phenolamides, N-caffeoyltyramine, and sinapoyltyramine, present in the extract, showed significant activity (MICs = 54 ± 0.92 and 74 ± 1.05 µg/mL). Docking supported their strong binding to the target enzyme. ADMET results indicated good oral bioavailability and low toxicity. This study is the first to report the anti-H. pylori activity of H. articulatum and to characterize its Iraqi chemotype through advanced metabolomics. The findings highlight the plant’s potential as a source of multifunctional phytochemicals with antioxidant and antibacterial applications, warranting further preclinical development and toxicological investigation.
A Cross-Sectional Study of environment Stress Among Undergraduate Dental Students Huda A. Yaseen, Dhaffar Alwan Majbil, Wathba Mohammed Jabber, Reyadh R. Al-Rashidi, Umelbaneen J. Alalawy, Sarab M. Zeki Radhi Dentistry 3000, 2025 Objective: Stress is a prevalent issue in the field of dental education, with numerous studies highlighting its impact on students. Creating a supportive and stress-free environment is vital in dental education, not only for the well-being of students but also to minimize hazards which are frequently linked to stress. The main objective of the study was to investigate the top stressors among the clinical years’ dental students. Material and Methods: A modified "Dental Environment Stress" questionnaire-based convenient sample from fourth- and fifth-year dental students in the University of Wasit and Kut University College was collected from November 2023 to December 2023. Prior to data collection, an ethical approval was taken from the Kut University College Research Ethics Committee (KREC) and each participant provided a written informed consent. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences statistical software (SPSS version 25.0). Results: 392 students participated with a female to male ratio (2.4: 1). The "Self-efficacy Belief" domain emerged as the most impactful stressor. Fifth-year students experience higher stress related to time management and clinical requirements compared to fourth-year students. Stress levels are similar between students from private and public universities. Conclusion: The study highlights that dental education induces significant stress among students. Efforts to improve patient organization and engagement are recommended to alleviate stress among students.
The interaction between lncRNAs and transcription factors regulating autophagy in human cancers: A comprehensive and therapeutical survey Saade Abdalkareem Jasim, Yasir Qasim Almajidi, Reyadh R. Al‐Rashidi, Ahmed Hjazi, Irfan Ahmad, Ahmed Hussien Radie Alawadi, Enas R. Alwaily, Hashem O. Alsaab, Ali Haslany, Mohamood Hameed Cell Biochemistry and Function, 2024 Autophagy, as a highly conserved cellular process, participates in cellular homeostasis by degradation and recycling of damaged organelles and proteins. Besides, autophagy has been evidenced to play a dual role through cancer initiation and progression. In the early stage, it may have a tumor‐suppressive function through inducing apoptosis and removing damaged cells and organelles. However, late stages promote tumor progression by maintaining stemness features and induction of chemoresistance. Therefore, identifying and targeting molecular mechanisms involved in autophagy is a potential therapeutic strategy for human cancers. Multiple transcription factors (TFs) are involved in the regulation of autophagy by modulating the expression of autophagy‐related genes (ATGs). In addition, a wide array of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a group of regulatory ncRNAs, have been evidenced to regulate the function of these autophagy‐related TFs through tumorigenesis. Subsequently, the lncRNAs/TFs/ATGs axis shows great potential as a therapeutic target for human cancers. Therefore, this review aimed to summarize new findings about the role of lncRNAs in regulating autophagy‐related TFs with therapeutic perspectives.
Malignant function of nuclear factor-kappaB axis in prostate cancer: Molecular interactions and regulation by non-coding RNAs Reyadh R. Al-Rashidi, Sara Abdalrazzaq M. Noraldeen, Ali Kamil Kareem, Aisha Kamal Mahmoud, Wesam R. Kadhum, Andrés Alexis Ramírez-Coronel, Acim Heri Iswanto, Rasha Fadhel Obaid, Abduladheem Turki Jalil, Yasser Fakri Mustafa, Noushin Nabavi, Yuzhuo Wang, Lin Wang Pharmacological Research, 2023 Prostate carcinoma is a malignant situation that arises from genomic alterations in the prostate, leading to changes in tumorigenesis. The NF-κB pathway modulates various biological mechanisms, including inflammation and immune responses. Dysregulation of NF-κB promotes carcinogenesis, including increased proliferation, invasion, and therapy resistance. As an incurable disease globally, prostate cancer is a significant health concern, and research into genetic mutations and NF-κB function has the efficacy to facilitate the introduction of novel therapies. NF-κB upregulation is observed during prostate cancer progression, resulting in increased cell cycle progression and proliferation rates. Additionally, NF-κB endorses resistance to cell death and enhances the capacity for metastasis, particularly bone metastasis. Overexpression of NF-κB triggers chemoresistance and radio-resistance, and inhibition of NF-κB by anti-tumor compounds can reduce cancer progression. Interestingly, non-coding RNA transcripts can regulate NF-κB level and its nuclear transfer, offering a potential avenue for modulating prostate cancer progression.
Evaluation of the Skin Permeation-Enhancing Abilities of Newly Developed Water-Soluble Self-Assembled Liquid Crystal Formulations Based on Hexosomes Wesam R. Kadhum, Gerard Lee See, Muqdad Alhijjaj, Mustafa M. Kadhim, Florencio Jr. Arce, Ahmed S. Al-Janabi, Reyadh R. Al-Rashidi, Anees A. Khadom Crystals, 2022 The present study aimed to develop polyethylene glycol–liquid crystals (PEG-LC) ointment formulations, assess their formulation characteristics, and establish their biocompatibility and impact on transdermal drug administration. PEG-LC formulations were prepared using a hydrophilic molecule, p-aminobenzoic acid (PAB). Formulation characterizations such as small-angle X-ray scattering, viscosity, pH, zeta potential, and the particle sizes of the formulations were examined to determine the physicochemical properties of the prepared formulations. The drug release profile of PEG-LC ointment formulations was assessed with a dialysis membrane. In vitro skin permeation testing was performed to establish whether the PEG-LC formulations improved drug skin penetration. The MTT and comet assays were performed to assess the biocompatibility of the formulations. Our data showed that the method is effective in forming hexosome-type PEG-LC formulations and that they were biocompatible. Furthermore, the PEG-LC formulations significantly improved PAB skin penetration when compared with commercial PEG. The PEG-LC formulation is a promising carrier for the delivery of hydrophilic drugs.
Exploring Haloxylon articulatum : a Sustainable Source of Allosteric EGFR Inhibitors with Promising Anticancer Activity RR AL-Rashidi, A ZAÏRI Chemistry Africa 9 (2), 46 , 2026 2026
Phytochemical Characterization and Anti- Helicobacter pylori Potential of Haloxylon articulatum Extracts: Antioxidant Activity and Molecular Docking Insights R Al-Rashidi, H Nasrallah, A Bouazzi, A Zaïri Molecules 30 (17), 3520 , 2025 2025 Citations: 2
A Cross-Sectional Study of Environment Stress Among Undergraduate Dental Students HA Yaseen, DA Majbil, WM Jabber, RR Al-Rashidi, UJ Alalawy, ... Dentistry 3000 13 (1) , 2025 2025
Epidemiology of COVID-19 in Yemen: A descriptive study H ALSHAIKHLI, R AL-NAGGAR, L ALMAKTARI, S MADRAM, ... EPIDEMIOLOGY 62 (10) , 2025 2025 Citations: 7
Phytochemical Characterization, Bioactive Properties, and Acute Toxicity of Wild Vitex agnus-castus L. methanolic extracts R Mejri, RR Al Rashidi, Y Hasni, A Laouani, S Chelly, H ELFEKIH, ... Preprints , 2024 2024
The interaction between lncRNAs and transcription factors regulating autophagy in human cancers: a comprehensive and therapeutical survey SA Jasim, YQ Almajidi, RR Al‐Rashidi, A Hjazi, I Ahmad, AHR Alawadi, ... Cell Biochemistry and Function 42 (2), e3971 , 2024 2024 Citations: 4
Adipose cell induction under the impacted tooth and extraction facilities (Clinical therapy) BG Murrad 2024
An Overview on the Impact of Diode Laser Therapy Upon Pre-Implantation, Stability and the Survival Rate of Dental Implants BG Murrad, J Bouguila, TA Hasan, RR Al-Rashidi Biol Med 15, 329-335 , 2024 2024
Malignant function of nuclear factor-kappaB axis in prostate cancer: Molecular interactions and regulation by non-coding RNAs RR Al-Rashidi, SAM Noraldeen, AK Kareem, AK Mahmoud, WR Kadhum, ... Pharmacological Research 194, 106775 , 2023 2023 Citations: 53
Evaluation of side effects associated with global COVID-19 vaccines in Iraq RR Al-Rashidi, RA Alsaray, Z Alsadoon, WN Alwan, WR Kadhum, ... Journal of Research in Pharmacy 26 (6) , 2022 2022
Evaluation of the skin permeation-enhancing abilities of newly developed water-soluble self-assembled liquid crystal formulations based on hexosomes WR Kadhum, GL See, M Alhijjaj, MM Kadhim, FJ Arce, AS Al-Janabi, ... Crystals 12 (9), 1238 , 2022 2022 Citations: 14
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Sana’a, Yemen RRARSM Redhwan Ahmed Al-Naggar , Hisham Alshaikhli International Journal of One Health 8 (1), 58 – 69 , 2022 2022
Nanomedicine and Drug Delivery Systems: Roles Advantages and Disadvantages WR Kadhum, M Alijah, RR Al-Rashidi, RK Obaid International Journal of Current Pharmaceutical Review and Research., 1-6 , 2022 2022 Citations: 2
Knowledge, awareness and attitude of an Iraqi college undergraduate students towards patient safety Particularly HIV RR Al-Rashidi, W Naeem, Z Alsadoon, H Al-Shaikhli, RA Alsaray, ... HIV Nursing , 2021 2021 Citations: 1
Antibacterial Activity of Selected Fractions Extract of Coptis chinensis Franch Rhizomes RR Al-Rashidi, H Alshaikhli Medico-legal Update 20 (3), 985-990 , 2020 2020
EPIDEMIOLOGY OF COVID-19 IN YEMEN: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY AALN REDHWAN, A LUTFI, M SALEM, RR AL-RASHIDI, A HISHAM INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMA AND BIO SCIENCES 10 (5) , 2020 2020
Glaucoma among the Malaysian community RA Al-Naggar, H Alshaikhli, RR Al-Rashidi, B Saleh The Scientific World Journal 2020 (1), 4859496 , 2020 2020 Citations: 11
Tinospora crispa extract enhances cisplatin-induced apoptosis in triple negative breast cancer cells RR Al-Rashidi, MJ Ibahim, NA Hamid Hasani, GRA Froemming Regen Res 4, 1-10 , 2016 2016 Citations: 4
Tinospora crispa is ameliorating cisplatininduced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in breast epithelial cells RR Al-Rashidi, MJ Ibahim, NA Hamid Hasani, GRA Froemming Regenerative Research 2 (1), 31-40 , 2013 2013 Citations: 3
The anti proliferative properties of tinospora crispa on triple negative breast cancer cell lines RR Al-Rashidi Universiti Teknologi MARA , 2013 2013
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
Malignant function of nuclear factor-kappaB axis in prostate cancer: Molecular interactions and regulation by non-coding RNAs RR Al-Rashidi, SAM Noraldeen, AK Kareem, AK Mahmoud, WR Kadhum, ... Pharmacological Research 194, 106775 , 2023 2023 Citations: 53
Evaluation of the skin permeation-enhancing abilities of newly developed water-soluble self-assembled liquid crystal formulations based on hexosomes WR Kadhum, GL See, M Alhijjaj, MM Kadhim, FJ Arce, AS Al-Janabi, ... Crystals 12 (9), 1238 , 2022 2022 Citations: 14
Glaucoma among the Malaysian community RA Al-Naggar, H Alshaikhli, RR Al-Rashidi, B Saleh The Scientific World Journal 2020 (1), 4859496 , 2020 2020 Citations: 11
Epidemiology of COVID-19 in Yemen: A descriptive study H ALSHAIKHLI, R AL-NAGGAR, L ALMAKTARI, S MADRAM, ... EPIDEMIOLOGY 62 (10) , 2025 2025 Citations: 7
The interaction between lncRNAs and transcription factors regulating autophagy in human cancers: a comprehensive and therapeutical survey SA Jasim, YQ Almajidi, RR Al‐Rashidi, A Hjazi, I Ahmad, AHR Alawadi, ... Cell Biochemistry and Function 42 (2), e3971 , 2024 2024 Citations: 4
Tinospora crispa extract enhances cisplatin-induced apoptosis in triple negative breast cancer cells RR Al-Rashidi, MJ Ibahim, NA Hamid Hasani, GRA Froemming Regen Res 4, 1-10 , 2016 2016 Citations: 4
Tinospora crispa is ameliorating cisplatininduced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in breast epithelial cells RR Al-Rashidi, MJ Ibahim, NA Hamid Hasani, GRA Froemming Regenerative Research 2 (1), 31-40 , 2013 2013 Citations: 3
Phytochemical Characterization and Anti- Helicobacter pylori Potential of Haloxylon articulatum Extracts: Antioxidant Activity and Molecular Docking Insights R Al-Rashidi, H Nasrallah, A Bouazzi, A Zaïri Molecules 30 (17), 3520 , 2025 2025 Citations: 2
Nanomedicine and Drug Delivery Systems: Roles Advantages and Disadvantages WR Kadhum, M Alijah, RR Al-Rashidi, RK Obaid International Journal of Current Pharmaceutical Review and Research., 1-6 , 2022 2022 Citations: 2
Knowledge, awareness and attitude of an Iraqi college undergraduate students towards patient safety Particularly HIV RR Al-Rashidi, W Naeem, Z Alsadoon, H Al-Shaikhli, RA Alsaray, ... HIV Nursing , 2021 2021 Citations: 1
Exploring Haloxylon articulatum : a Sustainable Source of Allosteric EGFR Inhibitors with Promising Anticancer Activity RR AL-Rashidi, A ZAÏRI Chemistry Africa 9 (2), 46 , 2026 2026
A Cross-Sectional Study of Environment Stress Among Undergraduate Dental Students HA Yaseen, DA Majbil, WM Jabber, RR Al-Rashidi, UJ Alalawy, ... Dentistry 3000 13 (1) , 2025 2025
Phytochemical Characterization, Bioactive Properties, and Acute Toxicity of Wild Vitex agnus-castus L. methanolic extracts R Mejri, RR Al Rashidi, Y Hasni, A Laouani, S Chelly, H ELFEKIH, ... Preprints , 2024 2024
Adipose cell induction under the impacted tooth and extraction facilities (Clinical therapy) BG Murrad 2024
An Overview on the Impact of Diode Laser Therapy Upon Pre-Implantation, Stability and the Survival Rate of Dental Implants BG Murrad, J Bouguila, TA Hasan, RR Al-Rashidi Biol Med 15, 329-335 , 2024 2024
Evaluation of side effects associated with global COVID-19 vaccines in Iraq RR Al-Rashidi, RA Alsaray, Z Alsadoon, WN Alwan, WR Kadhum, ... Journal of Research in Pharmacy 26 (6) , 2022 2022
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Sana’a, Yemen RRARSM Redhwan Ahmed Al-Naggar , Hisham Alshaikhli International Journal of One Health 8 (1), 58 – 69 , 2022 2022
Antibacterial Activity of Selected Fractions Extract of Coptis chinensis Franch Rhizomes RR Al-Rashidi, H Alshaikhli Medico-legal Update 20 (3), 985-990 , 2020 2020
EPIDEMIOLOGY OF COVID-19 IN YEMEN: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY AALN REDHWAN, A LUTFI, M SALEM, RR AL-RASHIDI, A HISHAM INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMA AND BIO SCIENCES 10 (5) , 2020 2020
The anti proliferative properties of tinospora crispa on triple negative breast cancer cell lines RR Al-Rashidi Universiti Teknologi MARA , 2013 2013