Discovery of pyrimidine-tethered benzothiazole derivatives as novel anti-tubercular agents towards multi- and extensively drug resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis

In this study, new benzothiazole-pyrimidine hybrids (5a-c, 6, 7a-f, and 8-15) were designed and synthesised. Two different functionalities on the pyrimidine moiety of lead compound 4 were subjected to a variety of chemical changes with the goal of creating various functionalities and cyclisation to further elucidate the target structures. The potency of the new molecules was tested against different tuberculosis (TB) strains. The results indicated that compounds 5c, 5b, 12, and 15 (MIC = 0.24-0.98 µg/mL) are highly active against the first-line drug-sensitive strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (ATCC 25177). Thereafter, the anti-tubercular activity was evaluated against the two drug-resistant TB strains; ATCC 35822 and RCMB 2674, where, many compounds exhibited good activity with MIC = 0.98-62.5 3 µg/mL and 3.9-62.5 µg/mL, respectively. Compounds 5c and 15 having the highest anti-tubercular efficiency towards sensitive strain, displayed the best activity for the resistant strains by showing the MIC = 0.98 and 1.95 µg/mL for MDR TB, and showing the MIC = 3.9 and 7.81 µg/mL for XDR TB, consecutively. Finally, molecular docking studies were performed for the two most active compounds 5c and 15 to explore their enzymatic inhibitory activities.

Metabolomic profile, anti-trypanosomal potential and molecular docking studies of Thunbergia grandifolia

Trypanosomiasis is a protozoan disease transmitted via Trypanosoma brucei. This study aimed to examine the metabolic profile and anti-trypanosomal effect of methanol extract of Thunbergia grandifolia leaves. The liquid chromatography-high resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (LC-HRESIMS) revealed the identification of fifteen compounds of iridoid, flavonoid, lignan, phenolic acid, and alkaloid classes. The extract displayed a promising inhibitory activity against T. brucei TC 221 with MIC value of 1.90 μg/mL within 72 h. A subsequent in silico analysis of the dereplicated compounds (i.e. inverse docking, molecular dynamic simulation, and absolute binding free energy) suggested both rhodesain and farnesyl diphosphate synthase as probable targets for two compounds among those dereplicated ones in the plant extract (i.e. diphyllin and avacennone B). The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profiling of diphyllin and avacennone were calculated accordingly, where both compounds showed acceptable drug-like properties. This study highlighted the antiparasitic potential of T. grandifolia leaves.

Chemical composition, seasonal variation and antiaging activities of essential oil from Callistemon subulatus leaves growing in Egypt

Callistemon is an aromatic genus of flowering plants belonging to family Myrtaceae. The essential oils of C. subulatus leaves were collected in four seasons and analyzed using GC/MS. The oils demonstrated monoterpenes as the predominant class. Eucalyptol was the main component in all seasons; summer (66.87%), autumn (58.33%), winter (46.74%) and spring (44.63%), followed by α-pinene; spring (31.41%), winter (28.69%), summer (26.34%) and autumn (24.68%). Winter oil, the highest yield (0.53 mL/100g), was further investigated for its inhibitory activity against enzymes associated with ageing; elastase and acetylcholinesterase. It remarkably inhibited elastase and acetylcholinesterase with IC₅₀ values of 1.05 and 0.20 µg/ml, respectively. A molecular docking study was conducted for the major oil components on the active sites of target enzymes. Eucalyptol revealed the best binding affinity for both enzymes. C. subualtus oil could be used as supplement for management of ageing disorders like skin wrinkles and dementia.

Design and synthesis of novel rigid dibenzo[b,f]azepines through ring closure technique as promising anticancer candidates against leukaemia and acting as selective topoisomerase II inhibitors and DNA intercalators

In this research, two novel series of dibenzo[b,f]azepines (14 candidates) were designed and synthesised based on the rigidification principle and following the reported doxorubicin's pharmacophoric features. The anti-proliferative activity was evaluated at the NCI against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines. Further, the promising candidates (5a-g) were evaluated for their ability to inhibit topoisomerase II, where 5e was noticed to be the most active congener. Moreover, its cytotoxicity was evaluated against leukaemia SR cells. Also, 5e arrested the cell cycle at the G1 phase and increased the apoptosis ratio by 37.34%. Furthermore, in vivo studies of 5e showed the inhibition of tumour proliferation and the decrease in its volume. Histopathology and liver enzymes were examined as well. Besides, molecular docking, physicochemical, and pharmacokinetic properties were carried out. Finally, a SAR study was discussed to open the gate for further optimisation of the most promising candidate (5e).HighlightsTwo novel series of dibenzo[b,f]azepines were designed and synthesised based on the rigidification principle in drug design.The anti-proliferative activity was evaluated at the NCI against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines.5e was the most active anti-topo II congener (IC₅₀ = 6.36 ± 0.36 µM).5e was evaluated against leukaemia SR cells and its cytotoxic effect was confirmed (IC₅₀ = 13.05 ± 0.62 µM).In vivo studies of 5e significantly inhibited tumour proliferation by 62.7% and decreased tumour volume to 30.1 mm³ compared to doxorubicin treatment.

New benzothiazole hybrids as potential VEGFR-2 inhibitors: design, synthesis, anticancer evaluation, and in silico study

A new series of 2-aminobenzothiazole hybrids linked to thiazolidine-2,4-dione 4a-e, 1,3,4-thiadiazole aryl urea 6a-d, and cyanothiouracil moieties 8a-d was synthesised. The in vitro antitumor effect of the new hybrids was assessed against three cancer cell lines, namely, HCT-116, HEPG-2, and MCF-7 using Sorafenib (SOR) as a standard drug. Among the tested compounds, 4a was the most potent showing IC50 of 5.61, 7.92, and 3.84 µM, respectively. Furthermore, compounds 4e and 8a proved to have strong impact on breast cancer cell line with IC50 of 6.11 and 10.86 µM, respectively. The three compounds showed a good safety profile towards normal WI-38 cells. Flow cytometric analysis of the three compounds in MCF-7 cells revealed that compounds 4a and 4c inhibited cell population in the S phase, whereas 8a inhibited the population in the G1/S phase. The most promising compounds were subjected to a VEGFR-2 inhibitory assay where 4a emerged as the best active inhibitor of VEGFR-2 with IC50 91 nM, compared to 53 nM for SOR. In silico analysis showed that the three new hybrids succeeded to link to the active site like the co-crystallized inhibitor SOR.

Novel N-Arylmethyl-aniline/chalcone hybrids as potential VEGFR inhibitors: synthesis, biological evaluations, and molecular dynamic simulations

Significant advancements have been made in the domain of targeted anticancer therapy for the management of malignancies in recent times. VEGFR-2 is characterised by its pivotal involvement in angiogenesis and subsequent mechanisms that promote tumour cells survival. Herein, novel N-arylmethyl-aniline/chalcone hybrids 5a-5n were designed and synthesised as potential anticancer and VEGFR-2 inhibitors. The anticancer activity was evaluated at the NCI-USA, resulting in the identification of 10 remarkably potent molecules 5a-5j that were further subjected to the five-dose assays. Thereafter, they were explored for their VEGFR-2 inhibitory activity where 5e and 5h emerged as the most potent inhibitors. 5e and 5h induced apoptosis with cell cycle arrest at the SubG0-G1 phase within HCT-116 cells. Moreover, their impact on some key apoptotic genes was assessed, suggesting caspase-dependent apoptosis. Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to explore the binding modes and stability of the protein-ligand complexes.

Design and statistical optimisation of emulsomal nanoparticles for improved anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of N-(5-nitrothiazol-2-yl)-carboxamido candidates: in vitro and in silico studies

In this article, emulsomes (EMLs) were fabricated to encapsulate the N-(5-nitrothiazol-2-yl)-carboxamido derivatives (3a-3g) in an attempt to improve their biological availability and antiviral activity. Next, both cytotoxicity and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities of the examined compounds loaded EMLs (F3a-g) were assessed in Vero E6 cells via MTT assay to calculate the CC₅₀ and inhibitory concentration 50 (IC₅₀) values. The most potent 3e-loaded EMLs (F3e) elicited a selectivity index of 18 with an IC₅₀ value of 0.73 μg/mL. Moreover, F3e was selected for further elucidation of a possible mode of action where the results showed that it exhibited a combination of virucidal (>90%), viral adsorption (>80%), and viral replication (>60%) inhibition. Besides, molecular docking and MD simulations towards the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro were performed. Finally, a structure-activity relationship (SAR) study focussed on studying the influence of altering the size, type, and flexibility of the α-substituent to the carboxamide in addition to compound contraction on SARS-CoV-2 activity.HighlightsEmulsomes (EMLs) were fabricated to encapsulate the N-(5-nitrothiazol-2-yl)-carboxamido derivatives (3a-3g).The most potent 3e-loaded EMLs (F3e) showed an IC₅₀ value of 0.73 μg/mL against SARS-CoV-2.F3e exhibited a combination of virucidal (>90%), viral adsorption (>80%), and viral replication (>60%) inhibition.Molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and MM-GBSA calculations were performed.Structure-activity relationship (SAR) study was discussed to study the influence of altering the size, type, and flexibility of the α-substituent to the carboxamide on the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity.

Biological evaluation, docking studies, and in silico ADME prediction of some pyrimidine and pyridine derivatives as potential EGFRWT and EGFRT790M inhibitors

Herein, a set of pyridine and pyrimidine derivatives were assessed for their impact on the cell cycle and apoptosis. Human breast cancer (MCF7), hepatocellular carcinoma (HEPG2), larynx cancer (HEP2), lung cancer (H460), colon cancers (HCT116 and Caco2), and hypopharyngeal cancer (FADU), and normal Vero cell lines were used. Compounds 8 and 14 displayed outstanding effects on the investigated cell lines and were further tested for their antioxidant activity in MCF7, H460, FADU, HEP2, HEPG2, HCT116, Caco2, and Vero cells by measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde content (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO) content. Besides, Annexin V-FITC apoptosis detection and cell cycle DNA index using the HEPG-2 cell line were established on both compounds as well. Furthermore, compounds 8 and 14 were assessed for their EGFR kinase (Wild and T790M) inhibitory activities, revealing eligible potential. Additionally, molecular docking, ADME, and SAR studies were carried out for the investigated candidates.

Discovery of indolinone-bearing benzenesulfonamides as new dual carbonic anhydrase and VEGFR-2 inhibitors possessing anticancer and pro-apoptotic properties

In the current medical era, the utilization of a single small molecule to simultaneously target two distinct molecular targets is emerging as a highly effective strategy in the battle against cancer. Carbonic Anhydrase (CA) and Vascular-Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) are genes that are activated in response to low oxygen levels (hypoxia) and play a role in the development and progression of tumors in hypoxic conditions. Herein we report the design, synthesis, and biological assessment of a series of novel indolinone-based benzenesulfonamides (8a-k, 11a-d, 15a-d, and 16) as potential dual inhibitors for cancer-associated hCA IX/XII and VEGFR-2. All the synthesized sulfonamides were assessed for their inhibitory effect against four CA isoforms I, II, IX, and XII where they displayed varying degrees of hCA inhibition. The most effective and selective hCA IX and XII inhibitors 8g, 8j and 15b were chosen to be tested for their in vitro inhibitory impact against VEGFR-2 as well as their antiproliferative impact against VEGFR-2 overexpressing MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Furthermore, molecular docking studies were conducted within the hCA IX, XII, and VEGFR-2 active sites to explain the observed inhibitory results.

Novel 4-(2-arylidenehydrazineyl)thienopyrimidine derivatives as anticancer EGFR inhibitors: Design, synthesis, biological evaluation, kinome selectivity and in silico insights

The current study discovered fifteen new thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives with potential anticancer action, including 5a-l, 6, and 7a-b. Results from the NCI screening revealed that compounds 5f-i and 7a significantly inhibited the proliferation of MDA-MB-468 cells at mean GI% and GI50 levels. Compared to staurosporine, these compounds (5f-i and 7a) demonstrated better safety towards typical WI-38 cells. Compounds 5g and 7a demonstrated the highest inhibition (two-digit nanomolar) when compared to erlotinib when their potency was tested on EGFR kinase. Considering the outcomes above, 5g was examined for its ability to disrupt the cell cycle with trigger apoptosis in breast cancer MDA-MB-468 cell lines. The apoptosis markers Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9, were detected. In silico molecular docking and dynamic simulation were used to explainthe biological activities of the most potent compound.

Phytochemical profiling and neuroprotective activity of Callistemon subulatus leaves against cyclophosphamide-induced chemobrain

Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is a chemotherapeutic drug used for various types of cancers. However, patients receiving CPA for long periods suffer cognitive impairment associated with difficulties in learning, decreased concentration, and impaired memory. Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment, known as chemobrain, has been attributed to enhanced oxidative stress and inflammatory response. The current study aimed to identify the phytoconstituents of Callistemon subulatus extract (CSE) using HPLC-ESI/MS-MS analysis and evaluate its neuroprotective activity against CPA-induced chemobrain in rats. Fourteen compounds were identified following HPLC analysis including, five phlorglucinols, four flavonol glycosides, a triterpene, and a phenolic acid. Forty rats were divided into five groups treated for ten days as follows; group I (control group), group II received CPA (200 mg/kg, i.p.) on the 7th day, groups III and IV received CSE (200 and 400 mg/kg respectively, orally) for ten days and CPA (200 mg/kg, i.p.) on the 7th day, and group V received only CSE (400 mg/kg, orally) for ten days. The administration of CSE effectively ameliorated the deleterious effects of CPA on spatial and short-term memories, as evidenced by behavioral tests, Y-maze and passive avoidance. Such findings were further confirmed by histological examination. In addition, CSE counteracted the effect of CPA on hippocampal acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity enhancing the level of acetylcholine. Owing to the CSE antioxidant properties, it hindered the CPA-induced redox imbalance, which is represented by decreased catalase and reduced glutathione levels, as well as enhanced lipid peroxidation. Therefore, CSE may be a promising natural candidate for protection against CPA-induced chemobrain in cancer patients.

3-Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic Acid-Based Hybrids Alleviate Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in HepG2 by the Regulation of Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Pathways: An Integrated Approach

In an effort to develop new compounds for managing drug-induced liver injury, we prepared 23 novel hybrids based on 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) using various biocompatible linkers. A bioguided approach was employed to identify the most promising hybrid. Eight compounds exhibited superior anti-inflammatory activity compared to the parent compound. Two of these hybrids (5b and 18) were able to reduce gene expression of TNF-α in LPS-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells, similar to dexamethasone. Subsequently, the hepatoprotective potential of these hybrids was evaluated against acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity in HepG2 cells at doses of 1 and 10 μM. Both hybrids effectively restored cytokine levels, which had been elevated by APAP, to normal levels. Furthermore, they normalized depleted superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione levels while significantly reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that AKBA-based hybrids exert their action by regulating PI3K and EGFR pathways, activating anti-inflammatory mechanisms, and initiating tissue repair and regeneration. Molecular docking studies provided insights into the interaction of the hybrids with PI3K. Additionally, the hybrids demonstrated good stability at different pH levels, following first-order kinetics, with relatively long half-lives, suggesting potential for absorption into circulation without significant degradation.

In silico screening of SARS-CoV2 helicase using African natural products: Docking and molecular dynamics approaches

In the current medical era, there is an urgent necessity to identify new effective drugs to enrich the COVID-19's therapeutic arsenal. The SARS-COV-2 NSP13/helicase enzyme has been identified as a potential target for developing novel COVID-19 inhibitors. In this work, we aimed at endorsing effective natural products with potential inhibitory action towards the NSP13 through the virtual screening of 1012 natural products of botanical and marine origin from the South African Natural Compounds Database (SANCDB). The molecules were docked into the NTPase active site, and the best twelve compounds were chosen for further analysis. Thereafter, a combination of molecular dynamics simulations and MM-GBSA free energy calculations were carried out for a subset of best hits complexed with NSP13 helicase. We believe that the findings of this work will pave the way for additional research and experimental validation of some natural products as viable NSP13 helicase inhibitors.

Tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinoline derivatives as a novel chemotype for dual antileishmanial-antimalarial activity graced with antitubercular activity: Design, synthesis and biological evaluation

Derivatives with tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinoline chemotype were synthesized via one-pot reactions and evaluated for their antileishmanial, antimalarial and antitubercular activities. Based on a structure-guided approach, they were designed to possess antileishmanial activity through antifolate mechanism, via targeting Leishmania major pteridine reductase 1 (Lm-PTR1). The in vitro antipromastigote and antiamastigote activity are promising for all candidates and superior to the reference miltefosine, in a low or sub micromolar range of activity. Their antifolate mechanism was confirmed via the ability of folic and folinic acids to reverse the antileishmanial activity of these compounds, comparably to Lm-PTR1 inhibitor trimethoprim. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed a stable and high potential binding of the most active candidates against leishmanial PTR1. For the antimalarial activity, most of the compounds exhibited promising antiplasmodial effect against P. berghei with suppression percentage of up to 97.78%. The most active compounds were further screened in vitro against the chloroquine resistant strain P. falciparum, (RKL9) and showed IC50 value range of 0.0198-0.096 μM, compared to IC50 value of 0.19420 μM for chloroquine sulphate. Molecular docking of the most active compounds against the wild-type and quadruple mutant pf DHFR-TS structures rationalized the in vitro antimalarial activity. Some candidates showed good antitubercular activity against sensitive Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a low micromolar range of MIC, compared to 0.875 μM of isoniazid. The top active ones were further tested against a multidrug-resistant strain (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant strain (XDR) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Interestingly, the in vitro cytotoxicity test of the best candidates displayed high selectivity indices emphasizing their safety on mammalian cells. Generally, this work introduces a fruitful matrix for new dual acting antileishmanial-antimalarial chemotype graced with antitubercular activity. This would help in tackling drug-resistance issues in treating some Neglected Tropical Diseases.

Theophylline-based hybrids as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors endowed with anti-inflammatory activity: synthesis, bioevaluation, in silico and preliminary kinetic studies

In this study, we investigated the conjugation of theophylline with different compounds of natural origin hoping to construct new hybrids with dual activity against cholinergic and inflammatory pathways as potential agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Out of 28 tested hybrids, two hybrids, acefylline-eugenol 6d and acefylline-isatin 19, were able to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) at low micromolar concentration displaying IC50 values of 1.8 and 3.3 μM, respectively, when compared to the galantamine standard AChE inhibitor. Moreover, the prepared hybrids exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory effect against lipopolysaccharide induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 and reduced nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in a dose dependent manner. These hybrids demonstrated significant reductions in nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in RAW 264.7 cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The findings of this study were further explained in light of network pharmacology analysis which suggested that AChE and nitric oxide synthase were the main targets of the most active compounds. Molecular docking studies revealed their ability to bind to the heme binding site of nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS-3) and effectively occupy the active site of AChE, interacting with both the peripheral aromatic subsite and catalytic triad. Finally, the compounds demonstrated stability in simulated gastric and intestinal environments, suggesting potential absorption into the bloodstream without significant hydrolysis. These findings highlight the possible therapeutic potential of acefylline-eugenol 6d and acefylline-isatin 19 hybrids in targeting multiple pathological mechanisms involved in AD, offering promising avenues for further development as potential treatments for this devastating disease.

The Potential Roles of Ficus carica Extract in the Management of COVID-19 Viral Infections: A Computer-Aided Drug Design Study

INTRODUCTION

The conventional processes of drug discovery are too expensive, time-consuming and the success rate is limited. Searching for alternatives that have evident safety and potential efficacy could save money, time and improve the current therapeutic regimen outcomes.

METHOD

Clinical phytotherapy implies the use of extracts of natural origin for prophylaxis, treatment, or management of human disorders. In this work, the potential role of common Fig (Ficus carica) in the management of COVID-19 infections has been explored. The antiviral effects of Cyanidin-3-rhamnoglucoside which is abundant in common Figs have been illustrated on COVID-19 targets. The immunomodulatory effect and the ability to ameliorate the cytokine storm associated with coronavirus infections have also been highlighted. This work involves various computational studies to investigate the potential roles of common figs in the management of COVID-19 viral infections.

RESULTS

Two molecular docking studies of all active ingredients in common Figs were conducted starting with MOE to provide initial insights, followed by Autodock Vina for further confirmation of the results of the top five compounds with the best docking score.

CONCLUSION

Finally, Molecular dynamic simulation alongside MMPBSA calculations were conducted using GROMACS to endorse and validate the entire work.

1,5-Diaryl-1,2,4-triazole Ureas as New SLC-0111 Analogues Endowed with Dual Carbonic Anhydrase and VEGFR-2 Inhibitory Activities

Presently, dual targeting by a single small molecule stands out as an effective cancer-fighting weapon. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) and vascular-endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are hypoxia-activatable genes that are implicated in tumorigenesis and progression of hypoxic tumors at different levels. Herein, we designed and synthesized 30 1,5-diaryl-1,2,4-triazole-tethered sulfonamides (11a-f, 12a-l, 13a-f, 15a-f) as novel SLC-0111 analogues with dual CA IX/XII and VEGFR-2 inhibitory activities. The 4-fluorophenyl SLC-0111 tail was replaced by substituted 1,5-diaryl-1,2,4-triazoles. Changing the sulfamoyl motif position provided regioisomers 11a-f and 12a-l. Elongation of the ureido linker yielded derivatives 15a-f. Inhibitory evaluations included a panel of hCAs (hCA I, II, IX, and XII) and screening against 60 cancer cell lines. Promising candidates were assessed for VEGFR-2 inhibition and selectivity and further evaluated on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and T-47D) and the non-tumorigenic (MCF-10A) cells. Molecular docking studies explored the binding modes of the sulfonamides against hCA IX/XII and VEGFR-2 kinase.

Investigating the promising SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitory activity of secoiridoids isolated from Jasminum humile; in silico and in Vitro assessments with structure-activity relationship

The proteolytic enzyme 3 C-like protease (3Clpro or Mpro) is considered the most important target for SARS-CoV-2 which could be attributed to its crucial role in viral maturation and/or replication. Besides, natural phytoconstituents from plant origin are always promising lead compounds in the drug discovery area. Herein, the previously isolated and identified seven compounds from Jasminum humile (J. humile) were examined in vitro and in silico against the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. First, the Vero E6 cells were utilized to pursue the potential of the investigated compounds (both in fractions and individual isolates) using the MTT assay. The total extract (T1) displayed the most significant activity against SARS-CoV-2 with IC50 = 29.36 µg/mL. Besides, the fractions (Fr1 and Fr3) showed good activity against the SARS-CoV-2 with IC50 values of 70.42, and 73.09 µg/mL, respectively. Then, the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitory assay was utilized to emphasize the inhibitory potential of the investigated isolates. MJN, JMD, and IJM candidates displayed prominent Mpro inhibitory potentials with IC50 = 30.44, 30.24, and 56.25 µM, respectively. Moreover, molecular docking of the identified seven compounds against the Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 showed that the five secoiridoids achieved superior results. MJN, JSM, IJM, and JMD showed higher affinities towards the Mpro target compared to the co-crystallized antagonist. Furthermore, the most active complexes (MJN, JSM, IJM, and JMD-Mpro) were subjected to MD simulations run for 150 ns and MM-GBSA calculations, compared to the co-crystallized inhibitor (O6K-Mpro). Finally, the SAR study clarified that JMD achieved the best anti-SARS-CoV-2 Mpro activity followed by MJN.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

2,4-Diaryl-pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazole derivatives as novel anticancer agents endowed with potent anti-leukemia activity: Synthesis, biological evaluation and kinase profiling

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stands as one of the most aggressive type of human cancer that can develop rapidly and thus requires immediate management. In the current study, the development of novel derivatives of pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazole (5a-p) as potential anti-AML agents is reported. The prepared compounds 5a-p were inspected for their in vitro anti-tumor activity at NCI-DTP and subsequently 5h was selected for full panel five-dose screening to assess its TGI, LC₅₀ and GI₅₀ values. Compound 5h showed effective anti-tumor activity at low micromolar concentration on all tested human cancer cell lines with GI₅₀ range from 0.35 to 9.43 μM with superior sub-micromolar activity towards leukemia. Furthermore, pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazoles 5e-l were tested on a panel ofhuman acute leukemia cell lines, namely HL60, MOLM-13, MV4-11, CCRF-CEM and THP-1, where 5e-h reached single-digit micromolar GI₅₀ values for all the tested cell lines. All prepared compounds were first tested for inhibitory action against the leukemia-associated mutant FLT3-ITD, as well as against ABL, CDK2, and GSK3 kinases, in order to identify the kinase target for the herein described pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazoles. However, the examined molecules disclosed non-significant activity against these kinases. Thereafter, a kinase profiling on a panel of 338 human kinases was then used to discover the potential target. Interestingly, pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazoles 5e and 5h significantly inhibited BMX kinase. Further investigation for the effect on cell cycle of HL60 and MV4-11 cells and caspase 3/7 activity was also performed. In addition, the changes in selected proteins (PARP-1, Mcl-1, pH3-Ser10) associated with cell death and viability were analyzed in HL60 and MV4-11 cells by immunoblotting.

Morphologic Design of Nanogold Carriers for a Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor: Effect on Ocular Retention and Intraocular Pressure

Morphologic design of nanomaterials for a diversity of biomedical applications is of increasing interest. The aim of the current study is to construct therapeutic gold nanoparticles of different morphologies and investigate their effect on ocular retention and intraocular pressure in a glaucoma rabbit model. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-coated nanorods and nanospheres have been synthesized and loaded with carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (CAI), and characterized in vitro for their size, zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency. Nanosized PLGA-coated gold nanoparticles of both morphologies demonstrated high entrapment efficiency (˃ 98%) for the synthesized CAI and the encapsulation of the drug into the developed nanoparticles was confirmed via Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. In vivo studies revealed a significant reduction in intraocular pressure upon instillation of drug-loaded nanogold formulations compared to the marketed eye drops. Spherical nanogolds exhibited a superior efficacy compared to the rod-shaped counterparts, probably due to the enhanced ocular retention of spherical nanogolds within collagen fibers of the stroma, as illustrated by transmission electron microscopy imaging. Normal histological appearance was observed for the cornea and retina of the eyes treated with spherical drug-loaded nanogolds. Hence, incorporation of a molecularly-designed CAI into nanogold of tailored morphology may provide a promising strategy for management of glaucoma.

Design and synthesis of 6-arylpyridine-tethered sulfonamides as novel selective inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase IX with promising antitumor features toward the human colorectal cancer

Hypoxia, a characteristic feature of solid tumors, develops as a result of excessive cell proliferation and rapid tumor growth exceeding the oxygen supply, and can result in angiogenesis activation, increased invasiveness, aggressiveness, and metastasis, leading to improved tumor survival and suppression of anticancer drug therapeutic impact. SLC-0111, a ureido benzenesulfonamide, is a selective human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) IX inhibitor in clinical trials for the treatment of hypoxic malignancies. Herein, we describe the design and synthesis of novel 6-arylpyridines 8a-l and 9a-d as structural analogues of SLC-0111, in the aim of exploring new selective inhibitors for the cancer-associated hCA IX isoform. The para-fluorophenyl tail in SLC-0111 was replaced by the privileged 6-arylpyridine motif. Moreover, both ortho- and meta-sulfonamide regioisomers, as well as an ethylene extended analogous were developed. All 6-arylpyridine-based SLC-0111 analogues were screened in vitro for their inhibitory potential against a panel of hCAs (hCA I, II, IV and IX isoforms) using stopped-flow CO₂ hydrase assay. In addition, the anticancer activity was firstly explored against a panel of 57 cancer cell lines at the USA NCI-Developmental Therapeutic Program. Compound 8g emerged as the best anti-proliferative candidate with mean GI% value equals 44. Accordingly, a cell viability assay (MTS) for 8g was applied on colorectal HCT-116 and HT-29 cancer cell lines as well as on the healthy HUVEC cells. Thereafter, Annexin V-FITC apoptosis detection, cell cycle, TUNEL, and qRT-PCR, colony formation, and wound healing assays were applied to gain mechanistic insights and to understand the behavior of colorectal cancer cells upon the treatment of compound 8g. Also, a molecular docking analysis was conducted to provide in silico insights into the reported hCA IX inhibitory activity and selectivity.

New apoptotic anti-triple-negative breast cancer theobromine derivative inhibiting EGFRWT and EGFRT790M: in silico and in vitro evaluation

A new theobromine-derived EGFR inhibitor (2-(3,7-Dimethyl-2,6-dioxo-2,3,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-purin-1-yl)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)acetamide) has been developed that has the essential structural characteristics to interact with EGFR's pocket. The designed compound is 2,6-di ortho methylphenyl)acetamide derivative of the well-known alkaloid, theobromine, (T-1-DOMPA). Firstly, deep DFT studies have been conducted to study the optimized chemical structure, molecular orbital and chemical reactivity analysis of T-1-DOMPA. Then, T-1-DOMPA's anticancer potentialities were estimated first through a structure-based computational approach. Utilizing molecular docking, molecular dynamics, MD, simulations over 100 ns, MM-PBSA and PLIP studies, T-1-DOMPA bonded to and inhibited the EGFR protein effectively. Subsequently, the ADMET profiles of T-1-DOMPA were computed before preparation, and its drug-likeness was anticipated. Therefore, T-1-DOMPA was prepared for the purposes of scrutinizing both the design and the results obtained in silico. The in vitro potential of T-1-DOMPA against triple-negative breast cancer cell lines, MDA- MB-231, was very promising with an IC₅₀ value of1.8 µM, comparable to the reference drug (0.9 µM), and a much higher selectivity index of 2.6. Interestingly, T-1-DOMPA inhibited three other cancer cell lines (CaCO-2, HepG-2, and A549) with IC₅₀ values of 1.98, 2.53, and 2.39 µM exhibiting selectivity index values of 2,4, 1.9, and 2, respectively. Additionally, T-1-DOMPA prevented effectively the MDA-MB-231cell line's healing and migration abilities. Also, T-1-DOMPA's abilities to induce apoptosis were confirmed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining assay. Finally, T-1-DOMPA caused an up-regulation of the gene expression of the apoptotic gene, Caspase-3, in the treated MDA-MB-231cell.

An updated review of fatty acid residue-tethered heterocyclic compounds: synthetic strategies and biological significance

Heterocyclic compounds have been featured as the key building blocks for the development of biologically active molecules. In addition to being derived from renewable raw materials, fatty acids possess a variety of biological properties. The two bioactive ingredients are being combined by many researchers to produce hybrid molecules that have a number of desirable properties. Biological activities and significance of heterocyclic derivatives of fatty acids have been demonstrated in a new class of heterocyclic compounds called heterocyclic fatty acid hybrid derivatives. The significance of heterocyclic-fatty acid hybrid derivatives has been emphasized in numerous research articles over the past few years. In this review, we emphasize the development of synthetic methods and their biological evaluation for heterocyclic fatty acid derivatives. These reports, combined with the upcoming compilation, are expected to serve as comprehensive foundations and references for synthetic, preparative, and applicable methods in medicinal chemistry.

1-Benzyl-5-bromo-3-hydrazonoindolin-2-ones as Novel Anticancer Agents: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling Insights

Human health is experiencing several obstacles in the modern medical era, particularly cancer. As a result, the cancer therapeutic arsenal should be continually expanded with innovative small molecules that preferentially target tumour cells. In this study, we describe the development of two small molecule series (7a–d and 12a–e) based on the 1-benzyl-5-bromoindolin-2-one scaffold that connected through a hydrazone linker to a 4-arylthiazole (7a–d) or 4-methyl-5-(aryldiazenyl)thiazole (12a–e) moiety. The anticancer activity of all the reported indolin-2-one derivatives was assessed against breast (MCF-7) and lung (A-549) cancer cell lines. The 4-arylthiazole-bearing derivatives 7c and 7d revealed the best anticancer activity toward MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 7.17 ± 0.94 and 2.93 ± 0.47, respectively). Furthermore, the VEGFR-2 inhibitory activity for 7c and 7d was evaluated. Both molecules disclosed good inhibitory activity, and their IC50 values were equal to 0.728 µM and 0.503 µM, respectively. Additionally, the impacts of 7d on the cell cycle phases as well as on the levels of different apoptotic markers (caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, and Bcl-2) were assessed. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations are carried out to explore the binding mode of 7d within the VEGFR-2 active site.

Synergistic Effect of Sophora japonica and Glycyrrhiza glabra Flavonoid-Rich Fractions on Wound Healing: In Vivo and Molecular Docking Studies

Glycyrrhiza glabra and Sophora japonica (Fabaceae) are well-known medicinal plants with valuable secondary metabolites and pharmacological properties. The flavonoid-rich fractions of G. glabra roots and S. japonica leaves were prepared using Diaion column chromatography, and the confirmation of flavonoid richness was confirmed using UPLC-ESI-MS profiling and total phenolics and flavonoids assays. UPLC-ESI-MS profiling of the flavonoid-rich fraction of G. glabra roots and S. japonica leaves resulted in the tentative identification of 32 and 23 compounds, respectively. Additionally, the wound healing potential of topical preparations of each fraction, individually and in combination (1:1) ointment and gel preparations, were investigated in vivo, supported by histopathological examinations and biomarker evaluations, as well as molecular docking studies for the major constituents. The topical application of G. glabra ointment and gel, S. japonica ointment and gel and combination preparations significantly increase the wound healing rate and the reduction of oxidative stress in the wound area via MDA reduction and the elevation of reduced GSH and SOD levels as compared to the wound and Nolaver®-treated groups. The molecular docking study revealed that that major compounds in G. glabra and S. japonica can efficiently bind to the active sites of three proteins related to wound healing: glycogen synthase kinase 3-β (GSK3-β), matrix metalloproteinases-8 (MMP-8) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Consequently, G. glabra roots and S. japonica leaves may be a rich source of bioactive metabolites with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.