Physiological response of Lactuca sativa exposed to 2-nonanone emitted by Bacillus sp. BCT9

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from bacterial species have been reported as plant growth inducers. In this sense, Lactuca sativa was used as model vegetable to prospect the effects of 2-nonanone released by Bacillus sp. BCT9 at cellular and organ structure level, so we present preliminary results about the physiological effects. In this study, 2-day-old L. sativa were exposed to 2-nonanone for 10 days under two delivery systems: 1) 2-nonanone (abrupt delivery) and 2) 2-nonanone + lanolin (controlled delivery). The X-ray elemental microanalysis, scanning electron and confocal laser microscopies techniques were used to evaluate physiological changes "in vivo" conditions. The results indicated that 2-nonanone increased root and shoot length independently of 2-nonanone delivery system after 7 days of exposition. Additionally, 2-nonanone elicited the increase of anthocyanin and not affects chlorophyll content and electrolyte leakage percentage. The abrupt delivery elicited the increase of both length and density of root hair without causing changes in size of cell epidermis, while controlled delivery induced stomatal opening. Besides, 2-nonanone exposition did not modify the composition and distribution of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and chlorine in the surface of plant tissue. The results suggested that 2-nonanone acts as a bacterial signal molecule to elicit changes related to root development without damaging the external morphology while epidermal cells at leaf level are not affected, suggesting that 2-nonanone can be an important tool to apply to vegetables.

Delaying latency to hyperbaric oxygen-induced CNS oxygen toxicity seizures by combinations of exogenous ketone supplements

Central nervous system oxygen toxicity (CNS-OT) manifests as tonic-clonic seizures and is a limitation of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), as well as of recreational and technical diving associated with elevated partial pressure of oxygen. A previous study showed that ketone ester (1,3-butanediol acetoacetate diester, KE) administration delayed latency to seizures (LS) in 3-month-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. This study explores the effect of exogenous ketone supplements in additional dosages and formulations on CNS-OT seizures in 18 months old SD rats, an age group correlating to human middle age. Ketogenic agents were given orally 60 min prior to exposure to hyperbaric oxygen and included control (water), KE (10 g/kg), KE/2 (KE 5 g/kg + water 5 g/kg), KE + medium-chain triglycerides (KE 5 g/kg + MCT 5 g/kg), and ketone salt (Na+ /K+ βHB, KS) + MCT (KS 5 g/kg + MCT 5 g/kg). Rats were exposed to 100% oxygen at 5 atmospheres absolute (ATA). Upon seizure presentation (tonic-clonic movements) experiments were immediately terminated and blood was tested for glucose and D-beta-hydroxybutyrate (D-βHB) levels. While blood D-βHB levels were significantly elevated post-dive in all treatment groups, LS was significantly delayed only in KE (P = 0.0003), KE/2 (P = 0.023), and KE + MCT (P = 0.028) groups. In these groups, the severity of seizures appeared to be reduced, although these changes were significant only in KE-treated animals (P = 0.015). Acetoacetate (AcAc) levels were also significantly elevated in KE-treated animals. The LS in 18-month-old rats was delayed by 179% in KE, 219% in KE + MCT, and 55% in KE/2 groups, while only by 29% in KS + MCT. In conclusion, KE supplementation given alone and in combination with MCT elevated both βHB and AcAc, and delayed CNS-OT seizures.

The regulation of three new members of the cytochrome P450 CYP6 family and their promoters in the cotton aphid Aphis gossypii by plant allelochemicals

BACKGROUND

The expression of P450 genes in insects can be induced by plant allelochemicals. To understand the induction mechanisms, we measured the expression profiles of three P450 genes and their promoter activities under the induction of plant allelochemicals.

RESULTS

The inducible expression of CYP6CY19 was the highest among three genes, followed by those of CYP6CY22 and CYP6DA1. The regions from -687 to +586 bp of CYP6DA1, from -666 to +140 bp of CYP6CY19 and from -530 to +218 bp of CYP6CY22 were essential for basal transcriptional activity. The cis-elements for plant allelochemicals induction were identified between -193 and +56 bp of CYP6DA1, between -157 and +140 bp of CYP6CY19 and between -108 and +218 bp of CYP6CY22. These promoter regions were found to contain a potential aryl hydrocarbon receptor element binding site with a conservative sequence motif 5'-C/TAC/ANCA/CA-3'. All these four plant allelochemicals were able to induce the expression of these P450 genes. Tannic acid had a better inductive effect than other three plant allelochemicals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified the plant allelochemical responsive cis-elements. This provides further research targets aimed at understanding the regulatory mechanisms of P450 genes expression and their interactions with plant allelochemicals in insect pests. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

The Role of Polyether Ether Ketone (Peek) in Dentistry - A Review

This study is aimed to review the applications of Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) in dentistry. The increased demand for aesthetics, legislation in some developed countries, few drawbacks with existing materials and clinicians shifting their paradigms towards metal free restorations led space for the metal-free restorations in today's dental practice. An electronic literature search was conducted through Medline via PubMed, Wiley Online library, EBSCOhost, Science Direct, as well as the Google Scholar between January 2010 and March 2018 using the keywords: PEEK, modified PEEK, PEEK and Dental, advantages of PEEK, applications of PEEK in dentistry and PEEK Implants. A total of 103 articles were found in the literature search and out of these, 18 were not related to our study and hence were excluded. Finally, 85 articles were found to be relevant. PEEK has been explained for a number of applications in dental practice. The literature showed that the PEEK material has superior mechanical properties with different uses in various specialties of dentistry.

Identification of the 2-tridecanone cis-acting element in the promoter of cytochrome P450 CYP6B7 in Helicoverpa armigera

The expression level of cytochrome P450 genes in insects can be induced by plant allelochemicals, which is important for insects to adapt to host plants. Cytochrome P450 CYP6B7 has been reported to be involved in pyrethroid insecticide resistance in Helicoverpa armigera, and its transcription level was induced by some inducers. Currently, the regulatory mechanism of the induced expression of CYP6B7 remains unknown, although it is very important for understanding the detoxification mechanism to allelochemicals in host plants. The objective of the present study was to investigate the cis-acting element in the promoter of CYP6B7 mediating the inducible up-regulation of CYP6B7 in H. armigera by 2-tridecanone. The promoter region of CYP6B7 was cloned by genome walking technique and analyzed by transient transfection assay. Progressive 5' deletion of the promoter region of CYP6B7 revealed that the relative luciferase activity of construct -320/+232 could be significantly induced by 2-tridecanone. Further stepwise deletion between -320 and -238 bp found that construct -292/+232 could also be significantly induced by 2-tridecanone, but the adjacent construct -256/+232 could not, suggesting the essential role of the sequence between -292 and -257 bp for 2-tridecanone induction. Nucleotide mutations between -292 and -281 bp had no influence on the induction effect by 2-tridecanone, but nucleotide mutations between -280 and -257 bp significantly decreased the induction effect. These results demonstrated that the cis-acting element for 2-tridecanone induction was between -280 and -257 bp in the promoter of CYP6B7.

New pentadienone oxime ester derivatives: synthesis and anti-inflammatory activity

To develop novel anti-inflammatory agents, a series of new pentadienone oxime ester compounds were designed and synthesized. The structures were determined by IR, 1H NMR, 13 C NMR, and HRMS. All compounds have been screened for their anti-inflammatory activity by evaluating their inhibition against LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) release in RAW 264.7 cell. Among them, compound 5j was found to be one of the most potent compounds in inhibiting NO and IL-6 (IC50 values were 6.66 µM and 5.07 µM, respectively). Preliminary mechanism studies show that title compound 5j could significantly suppress expressions of nitric oxide synthase, COX-2, and NO, IL-6 through Toll-like receptor 4/mitogen-activated protein kinases/NF-κB signalling pathway. These data support further studies to assess rational design of more efficient pentadienone oxime ester derivatives with anti-inflammatory activity in the future.

Reverse chemical ecology-based approach leading to the accidental discovery of repellents for Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas diseases refractory to DEET

Rhodnius prolixus is one of the most important vectors of Chagas disease in Central and South America for which repellents and attractants are sorely needed. Repellents like DEET, picaridin, and IR3535 are widely used as the first line of defense against mosquitoes and other vectors, but they are ineffective against R. prolixus. Our initial goal was to identify in R. prolixus genome odorant receptors sensitive to putative sex pheromones. We compared gene expression of 21 ORs in the R. prolixus genome, identified 4 ORs enriched in male (compared with female) antennae. Attempts to de-orphanize these ORs using the Xenopus oocyte recording system showed that none of them responded to putative sex pheromone constituents. One of the them, RproOR80, was sensitive to 4 compounds in our panel of 109 odorants, namely, 2-heptanone, γ-octalactone, acetophenone, and 4-methylcychohexanol. Interestingly, these compounds, particularly 4-methylcyclohexanol, showed strong repellency activity as indicated not only by a significant decrease in residence time close to a host, but also by a remarkable reduction in blood intake. 4-Methylcyclohexanol-elicited repellency activity was abolished in RNAi-treated insects. In summary, our search for pheromone receptors led to the discovery of repellents for R. prolixus.

Synergistic effect of surface phosphorylation and micro-roughness on enhanced osseointegration ability of poly(ether ether ketone) in the rabbit tibia

This study was aimed to investigate the osseointegration ability of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) implants with modified surface roughness and/or surface chemistry. The roughened surface was prepared by a sandblast method, and the phosphate groups on the substrates were modified by a two-step chemical reaction. The in vitro osteogenic activity of rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the developed substrates was assessed by measuring cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin expression, and bone-like nodule formation. Surface roughening alone did not improve MSC responses. However, phosphorylation of smooth substrates increased cell responses, which were further elevated in combination with surface roughening. Moreover, in a rabbit tibia implantation model, this combined surface modification significantly enhanced the bone-to-implant contact ratio and corresponding bone-to-implant bonding strength at 4 and 8 weeks post-implantation, whereas modification of surface roughness or surface chemistry alone did not. This study demonstrates that combination of surface roughness and chemical modification on PEEK significantly promotes cell responses and osseointegration ability in a synergistic manner both in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, this is a simple and promising technique for improving the poor osseointegration ability of PEEK-based orthopedic/dental implants.

Role for Transferrin in Triggering Apoptosis in Helicoverpa armigera Cells Treated with 2-Tridecanone

2-Tridecanone, a plant allelochemical present in a large range of tomato species ( Lycopersicon hirsutum f. glabratum), can induce the expression of Helicoverpa armigera transferrin ( HaTrf), which is necessary for insect growth and development. To gain further insight into the mechanism of HaTrf in response to 2-tridecanone, we measured the iron and H₂O₂ levels in the hemolymph during exposure to 2-tridecanone and then explored the effect of transferrin downregulation in a H. armigera fat body cell line exposed to 2-tridecanone. We found that the reduction of HaTrf levels via RNA interference caused rapid apoptotic cell death during exposure to 2-tridecanone. There have been no reports about transferrin genes related to apoptosis induced by plant allelochemicals. Our results indicate that HaTrf mediates the inhibition of apoptotic cell death during exposure to 2-tridecanone and provides insight into the importance of transferrin in the interaction between plants and insects.

Pharmacodynamic analysis of eribulin safety in breast cancer patients using real-world postmarketing surveillance data

Postmarketing surveillance is useful to collect safety data in real-world clinical settings. In this study, we applied postmarketing real-world data on a mechanistic model analysis for neutropenic profiles of eribulin in patients with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer. Demographic and safety data were collected using an active surveillance method from eribulin-treated recurrent or metastatic breast cancer patients. Changes in neutrophil counts over time were analyzed using a mechanistic pharmacodynamic model. Pathophysiological factors that might affect the severity of neutropenia were investigated, and neutropenic patterns were simulated for different treatment schedules. Clinical and laboratory data were collected from 401 patients (5199 neutrophil count measurements) who had not received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and were eligible for pharmacodynamic analysis. The estimated mean parameters were as follows: mean transit time = 104.5 h, neutrophil proliferation rate constant = 0.0377 h-1 , neutrophil elimination rate constant = 0.0295 h-1 , and linear coefficient of drug effect = 0.0413 mL/ng. Low serum albumin levels and low baseline neutrophil counts were associated with severe neutropenia. The probability of grade ≥3 neutropenia was predicted to be 69%, 27%, and 27% for patients on standard, biweekly, and triweekly treatment scenarios, respectively, based on virtual simulations using the developed pharmacodynamic model. In conclusion, this is the first application of postmarketing surveillance data to a model-based safety analysis. This analysis of safety data reflecting authentic clinical settings will provide useful information on the safe use and potential risk factors of eribulin.

Agonists of the γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABAB) receptor derived from β-hydroxy and β-amino difluoromethyl ketones

β-Hydroxy difluoromethyl ketones represent the newest class of agonists of the GABA-B receptor, and they are structurally distinct from all other known agonists at this receptor because they do not display the carboxylic acid or amino group of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In this report, the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of additional analogues of β-hydroxy difluoromethyl ketones characterized the critical nature of the substituted aromatic group on the lead compound. The importance of these new data is interpreted by docking studies using the X-ray structure of the GABA-B receptor. Moreover, we also report that the synthesis and biological evaluation of β-amino difluoromethyl ketones provided the most potent compound across these two series.

Chemoreception of botanical nematicides by Meloidogyne incognita and Caenorhabditis elegans

Plant-parasitic nematodes, such as Meloidogyne incognita, cause serious damage to various agricultural crops worldwide, and their control necessitates environmentally safe measures. We have studied the effects of plant secondary metabolites on M. incognita locomotion, as it is an important factor affecting host inoculation inside the soil. We compared the effects to the respective behavioral responses of the model saprophytic nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The tested botanical nematicides, all reported to be active against Meloidogyne sp. in our previous works, are small molecular weight molecules (acids, alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones). Here, we specifically report on the attractant or repellent properties of trans-anethole, (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, (E)-2-decenal, fosthiazate, and 2-undecanone. The treatments for both nematode species were made at sublethal concentration levels, namely, 1 mM (<EC₅₀), and the chemical controls used for the experiments were the commercial nematicides fosthiazate and oxamyl. According to our results, trans-anethole, decenal, and oxamyl attract C. elegans, while 2-undecanone strongly attracts M. incognita. These findings can be of use in the development of nematicidal formulations, contributing to the disruption of nematode chemotaxis to root systems.

Antiplasmodial β-Triketone-Flavanone Hybrids from the Flowers of the Australian Tree Corymbia torelliana

The methanol extract of the flowers of the Australian eucalypt tree Corymbia torelliana yielded six new β-triketone-flavanone hybrids, torellianones A-F (1-6), the tetrahydroxycyclohexane torellianol A (7), and known β-triketones (4 S)-ficifolidione (8) and (4 R)-ficifolidione (9), and β-triketone-flavanones kunzeanone A (10) and kunzeanone B (11). Torellianones A and B, C and D, and E and F were each isolated as inseparable diastereomeric mixtures. Exchange correlations observed in a ROESY spectrum indicated that 5 and 6 also interconverted between stable conformers. The structures of 1-7 were elucidated from the analysis of 1D/2D NMR and MS data. Relative configurations of torellianones C-F and torrellianol A were determined from analysis of ROESY data. Compounds 1-10 were tested for antiplasmodial activity against a drug-sensitive (3D7) strain of Plasmodium falciparum, with 3-6 and 8-10 showing limited antiplasmodial activity, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 3.2 to 16.6 μM.

Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Neuroprotectant Activities of New Asymmetrical 1,3-Diketones

A series of fourteen new asymmetrical 1,3-diketone derivatives have been synthesized and evaluated in the ABTS, FRAP and DPPH assays as a new chemotype with antioxidant and drug-like properties. All the compounds displayed low cytotoxicity in comparison to curcumin against the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line. Among them, (3Z,5E)-6-(2,5-difluoro-4-hydroxy-phenyl)-1,1,1-trifluoro-4-hydroxyhexa-3,5-dien-2-one (6b) and (3Z,5E)-6-(2,3-difluoro-4-hydroxy-phenyl)-1,1,1-trifluoro-4-hydroxyhexa-3,5-dien-2-one (7b) with excellent solubility and chemical stability in biorelevant media, have also shown a similar Fe+2 chelation behavior to that of curcumin. Additionally, both derivatives 6b and 7b have afforded good neuroprotection activity against H₂O₂ induced oxidative stress in the same neuronal cell line, with a significant reduction of intracellular ROS levels, in parallel with a good recovery of the Mitochondrial Membrane Potential (ΔΨm). Compounds 6b and 7b with a promising antioxidant and drug-like profile, with low cytotoxic and good neuroprotectant activity, constitute a new interesting chemical class with high potential as new therapeutic agents against neurodegenerative diseases.

The in vivo response to a novel Ti coating compared with polyether ether ketone: evaluation of the periphery and inner surfaces of an implant

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Increasing bone ongrowth and ingrowth of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) interbody fusion devices has the potential to improve clinical outcomes.

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the in vivo response of promoting new bone growth and bone apposition with NanoMetalene (NM) compared with PEEK alone in a cancellous implantation site with an empty aperture.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a randomized control animal study.

METHODS

Implants and funding for this study were provided by SeaSpine (60,000 USD). Cylindrical dowels with two apertures were prepared as PEEK with a sub-micron layer of the titanium (NM). The titanium coating was applied over the entire implant (Group 1) or just the apertures (Group 2). Polyether ether ketone implants with no coating served as controls (Group 3). Implants were placed in the cancellous bone of the distal femur or proximal tibia with no graft material placed in the apertures in eight adult sheep. Bone ongrowth to the surface of the implant and ingrowth into the apertures was assessed at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery with micro-computed tomography (CT) and undecalcified histology.

RESULTS

The apertures in the implants were notably empty in the PEEK group at 4 and 8 weeks. In contrast, new bone formation into the apertures was found in samples coated with NM even though no graft material was placed into the defect. The bone growing into the aperture tracked along the titanium layer. Apertures with the titanium coating demonstrated significantly more bone by micro-CT qualitative grading compared with PEEK with average bone coverage scores of Group 1 (NM) 1.62±0.89, Group 2 (NM apertures only) 1.62±0.77, and Group 3 (PEEK) 0.43±0.51, respectively, at 4 weeks (p<.01) and Group 1 (NM) 1.79±1.19, Group 2 (NM apertures only) 1.98±1.18, and Group 3 (PEEK) 0.69±0.87, respectively, at 8 weeks (p<.05). The amount of bone in the apertures (ingrowth) quantified using the volumetric data from the micro-CT supported an overall increase in bone volume inside the apertures with the titanium coating compared with PEEK. Histology showed newly formed woven bone tracked along the surface of the titanium in the apertures. The PEEK interface presented the typical nonreactive fibrous tissue inside the apertures at 4 weeks and some focal contact with bone on the outside at 4 weeks and 8 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Micro-CT and histology demonstrated bone ongrowth to the surfaces coated with NM where the newly formed bone tracked along the thin titanium-coated surfaces. Polyether ether ketone surfaces presented the nonreactive fibrous tissue at the interface as previously reported in preclinical scenarios.

miR-195 potentiates the efficacy of microtubule-targeting agents in non-small cell lung cancer

Microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) are widely used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The response rate is only ∼25%, mainly attributable to drug resistance. To identify determinants of resistance in NSCLC, we performed a high-throughput screen using a library of miRNA mimics. Here we report that miR-195 synergizes with MTAs to inhibit the growth of NSCLC cells in vitro, that increased expression of miR-195 sensitizes NSCLC cells to MTAs and that repression of miR-195 confers resistance to MTAs. We show that NSCLC tumors over-expressing miR-195 are more sensitive to MTA treatment and that induced expression of miR-195 in NSCLC tumors potentiates the anti-tumor effect of MTAs. Additionally, we demonstrate that miR-195 targets checkpoint kinase 1 (CHEK1) to regulate the response of NSCLC cells to MTAs, that over-expression of CHEK1 contributes to resistance to MTAs and that knock-down of CHEK1 synergizes with MTAs to repress cell growth. Our results highlight the importance of miR-195 in regulating the response of NSCLC cells to MTAs and underline the potential application of miR-195 as a biomarker for response to MTAs, and as a therapeutic adjuvant to MTA treatment.

UV-irradiated 2-methyl-4'-(methylthio)-2-morpholinopropiophenone-containing injection solution produced frameshift mutations in the Ames mutagenicity assay

In previous studies, we detected the photoinitiators 1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone (1-HCHPK), methyl 2-benzoylbenzoate (MBB), and 2-methyl-4'-(methylthio)-2-morpholinopropiophenone (MTMP) in intravenous injection solutions. In addition, we reported that 1-HCHPK, MBB, and MTMP exhibited cytotoxicity towards normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. A previous in vitro study reported that a free-radical photoinitiator introduced covalently bound purine residues into DNA. However, little is known about the in vitro mutagenicity of 1-HCHPK, MBB, and MTMP. In the present in vitro study, we evaluated the mutagenicity of 1-HCHPK, MBB, and MTMP using the Ames test. We found that untreated 1-HCHPK, MBB, and MTMP were not mutagenic in S. typhimurium strain TA97, TA98, TA100, TA102, or TA1535, regardless of the presence/absence of S9 activation. However, ultraviolet (UV) light-irradiated MTMP exhibited mutagenicity in S. typhimurium strain TA97 in the absence of S9 activation. In conclusion, we suggest that exposure to UV-irradiated MTMP, including in intravenous injection solutions, can result in frameshift mutations.

Phenylthiomethyl Ketone-Based Fragments Show Selective and Irreversible Inhibition of Enteroviral 3C Proteases

Lead structure discovery mainly focuses on the identification of noncovalently binding ligands. Covalent linkage, however, is an essential binding mechanism for a multitude of successfully marketed drugs, although discovered by serendipity in most cases. We present a concept for the design of fragments covalently binding to proteases. Covalent linkage enables fragment binding unrelated to affinity to shallow protein binding sites and at the same time allows differentiated targeted hit verification and binding location verification through mass spectrometry. We describe a systematic and rational computational approach for the identification of covalently binding fragments from compound collections inhibiting enteroviral 3C protease, a target with high therapeutic potential. By implementing reactive groups potentially forming covalent bonds as a chemical feature in our 3D pharmacophore methodology, covalent binders were discovered by high-throughput virtual screening. We present careful experimental validation of the virtual hits using enzymatic assays and mass spectrometry unraveling a novel, previously unknown irreversible inhibition of the 3C protease by phenylthiomethyl ketone-based fragments. Subsequent synthetic optimization through fragment growing and reactivity analysis against catalytic and noncatalytic cysteines revealed specific irreversible 3C protease inhibition.

Ovicidal and larvicidal activity and possible mode of action of phenylpropanoids and ketone identified in Syzygium aromaticum bud against Bradysia procera

Bradysia procera is a serious insect pest of Panax ginseng plants. This study was conducted to determine the toxicity and mechanism of action of three phenylpropanoids, three terpenoids, and a ketone from Syzygium aromaticum bud methanol extract and hydrodistillate against third-instar larvae and eggs of B. procera. In a filter-paper mortality bioassay, methyl salicylate (LC₅₀, 5.26μg/cm²) was the most toxic compound, followed by 2-nonanone, eugenol, and eugenyl acetate (8.77-15.40μg/cm²). These compounds were significantly less toxic than either thiamethoxam, clothianidin, or cypermethrin. Egg hatching was inhibited by 97, 85, and 40% at 11.7μg/cm² of methyl salicylate, 2-nonanone, and eugenol, respectively. The egg-hatching inhibition of these insecticides was between 90 and 94% at 0.09μg/cm². These constituents were consistently more toxic in closed versus open containers, indicating that toxicity was achieved mainly through the action of vapor. The mechanism of larvicidal action of methyl salicylate, eugenol, and eugenyl acetate might be primarily due to interference with the octopaminergic system. 2-Heptyl acetate and 2-nonanone might act on both acetylcholinesterase and the octopaminergic receptor. 2-Heptanone might act primarily on acetylcholinesterase. Further studies will warrant possible applications of S. aromaticum bud-derived products as potential larvicides and ovicides for the control of B. procera.

A Ketone Ester Drink Lowers Human Ghrelin and Appetite

OBJECTIVE

The ketones d-β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and acetoacetate are elevated during prolonged fasting or during a "ketogenic" diet. Although weight loss on a ketogenic diet may be associated with decreased appetite and altered gut hormone levels, it is unknown whether such changes are caused by elevated blood ketones. This study investigated the effects of an exogenous ketone ester (KE) on appetite.

METHODS

Following an overnight fast, subjects with normal weight (n = 15) consumed 1.9 kcal/kg of KE, or isocaloric dextrose (DEXT), in drinks matched for volume, taste, tonicity, and color. Blood samples were analyzed for BHB, glucose, insulin, ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), and a three-measure visual analogue scale was used to measure hunger, fullness, and desire to eat.

RESULTS

KE consumption increased blood BHB levels from 0.2 to 3.3 mM after 60 minutes. DEXT consumption increased plasma glucose levels between 30 and 60 minutes. Postprandial plasma insulin, ghrelin, GLP-1, and PYY levels were significantly lower 2 to 4 hours after KE consumption, compared with DEXT consumption. Temporally related to the observed suppression of ghrelin, reported hunger and desire to eat were also significantly suppressed 1.5 hours after consumption of KE, compared with consumption of DEXT.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased blood ketone levels may directly suppress appetite, as KE drinks lowered plasma ghrelin levels, perceived hunger, and desire to eat.

Stimulation of cell responses and bone ingrowth into macro-microporous implants of nano-bioglass/polyetheretherketone composite and enhanced antibacterial activity by release of hinokitiol

Poor osteogenesis and bacterial infection lead to the failure of implants, thus enhancements of osteogenic activity and antibacterial activity of the implants have significances in orthopedic applications. In this study, macro-microporous bone implants of nano-bioglass (nBG) and polyetheretherketone (PK) composite (mBPC) were fabricated. The results indicated that the mBPC with the porosity of around 70% exhibited interconnected macropores (sizes of about 400 μm) and micropores (sizes of about 10 μm). The apatite mineralization ability of mBPC in simulated body fluid (SBF) was significantly improved compared with macroporous nBG/PK composite (BPC) without micropores and macroporous PK (mPK). Drug of hinokitiol (HK) was loaded into mBPC (dmBPC), which displayed excellent in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The MC3T3-E1 cells proliferation and ALP activity were significantly promoted by mBPC and dmBPC as compared with BPC and mPK. The micro-CT and histological evaluation showed that both mBPC and dmBPC containing nBG and micropores induced higher new bone formation into porous implants than mPK and BPC. The immunohistochemistry analysis indicated that the expression of BMP-2 in mBPC and dmBPC exhibited obviously higher level than mPK and BPC. The results suggested that the incorporation of nBG and micropores in mBPC obviously improved the osteogenic activity, and mBPC load with HK also promoted osteogenesis, indicating good biocompatibility. The dmBPC with HK significantly enhanced osteogenesis and antibacterial activity, which had great potential as bone implant for hard tissue repair.

Exposure to selected limonene oxidation products: 4-OPA, IPOH, 4-AMCH induces oxidative stress and inflammation in human lung epithelial cell lines

Limonene oxidation products (LOPs) have gained interest on their harmful health effects over time. Recently, studies have shown that the selected LOPs: 4-oxopentanal (4-OPA), 3-isopropenyl-6-oxo-heptanal (IPOH) and 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene (4-AMCH) have sensory irritation effects in mice and inflammatory effects in human lung cells. This study was therefore undertaken to investigate the potential capacity of 4-OPA, IPOH and 4-AMCH to cause cell membrane damage, oxidative stress and inflammation in human bronchial (16HBE14o-) and alveolar (A549) epithelial cell lines. Overall results suggest that 4-OPA, IPOH have cytotoxic effects on human lung cells that might be mediated by ROS: the highest concentration applied of IPOH [500 μM] enhanced ROS generation by 100-fold ± 7.7 (A549) and 230-fold ± 19.9 (16HBE14o-) compared to the baseline. 4-OPA [500 μM] increased ROS levels by 1.4-fold ± 0.3 (A549) and by 127-fold ± 10.5 (16HBE14o-), while treatment with 4-AMCH [500 μM] led to 0.9-fold ± 0.2 (A549) and 49-fold ± 12.8 (16HBE14o-) increase. IPOH [500 μM] caused a decrease in the thiol-state balance (e.g. after 2 h, GSH:GSSG was reduced by 37% compared to the untreated 16HBE14o-cells). 4-OPA [500 μM] decreased the GSH:GSSG by 1.3-fold change in A549 cells and 1.4-fold change in 16HBE14o-cells. No statistically significant decrease in the GSH:GSSG in A549 and 16HBE14o-cell lines was observed for 4-AMCH [500 μM]. In addition, IPOH and 4-OPA [31.2 μM] increased the amount of the inflammatory markers: RANTES, VEGF and EGF. On the other hand, 4-AMCH [31.2 μM] did not show inflammatory effects in A549 or 16HBE14o-cells. The 4-OPA, IPOH and 4-AMCH treatment concentration and time-dependently induce oxidative stress and/or alteration of inflammatory markers on human bronchial and alveolar cell lines.

pH Switchable Nanoassembly for Imaging a Broad Range of Malignant Tumors

Polymer-based fluorescent nanomaterials have proven to universally image various tumors based on their extremely sharp responsiveness to pH change. Such a property has never been realized in supramolecular systems. We herein design a small molecule (DPP-thiophene-4) that is composed of a diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) core and two alkyl chains terminated with quaternary ammonium. DPP-thiophene-4 can self-assemble into a nonfluorescent nanoassembly when the pH is >7.0 but reversibly disassembles back to fluorescent monomers when the pH is <6.8. Meanwhile, its fluorescence emission increases by 10-fold within a 0.2 pH unit change. Such a fluorogenic nanoassembly can precisely differentiate a number of malignant tumors among normal tissues in vivo due to the slight acidity within tumor microenvironments. Further the nanoassembly shows satisfactory biocompatibility and an effective clearance from the body. Overall, this supramolecular fluorogenic nanoassembly exhibits an immense potential for realizing broad range tumor diagnosis.

Laboratory Evaluation of Synthetic Blends of l-(+)-Lactic Acid, Ammonia, and Ketones As Potential Attractants For Aedes aegypti

Attraction of Aedes aegypti to various binary, trinary, and quaternary blends of lactic acid and ketones with or without ammonia was studied using a dual choice olfactometer. A dose dependent attraction was observed in cases of single compounds where cyclopentanone attracted the highest percentage (36.9 ± 1.8%) of Ae. aegypti when tested alone. No significant difference was observed between the attraction levels of trinary and binary blends of lactic acid and acetone or butanone when tested against clear air. However, in competitive bioassays, the trinary blend of lactic acid, acetone, and butanone was significantly preferred over binary blends of individual compounds ( P < 0.05). Acetylacetone was weakly attractive when tested alone but showed additive attraction when blended with lactic acid. However, acetylacetone acted as an attraction inhibitor when blended with other compounds. Cyclopentanone was attractive, but enhancement of attraction was not observed when blended with other components. Addition of ammonia to binary or trinary blends of lactic acid, acetone, and/or butanone did not increase the attraction significantly. In competitive bioassays, the blends containing ammonia were significantly preferred over the blends lacking ammonia ( P < 0.05). This highlights ammonia as an essential component of synthetic blends. A quaternary blend of lactic acid, ammonia, acetone, and butanone was most attractive (65 ± 1.5%) and preferred blend of all other combinations.

Z-FA-FMK demonstrates differential inhibition of aquatic orthoreovirus (PRV), aquareovirus (CSRV), and rhabdovirus (IHNV) replication

Benzyloxycarbonyl-phenylalanyl-alanyl-fluoromethyl ketone (Z-FA-FMK) is a protease inhibitor that has been shown to strongly inhibit mammalian orthoreovirus replication. Here we explore the ability of Z-FA-FMK to inhibit three important yet genetically discrete aquatic fish viruses: chum salmon aquareovirus (CSRV), piscine orthoreovirus (PRV), and the rhabdovirus infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV). Z-FA-FMK significantly attenuated CSRV in vitro transcription and infectious yield following low-dose (2-20μM) exposure, yet a relatively high dose (200μM) was required to completely block CSRV replication. For PRV and IHNV, no significant attenuation of in vitro viral transcription was observed following low-dose (2-20μM) exposure; and although high dose (200μM) exposure significantly attenuated both PRV and IHNV transcription, neither was completely inhibited. These transcriptional results were similarly reflected in IHNV infectious titre observed at 7days post exposure. PRV titre is currently undeterminable in vitro; however, in vivo intra-peritoneal injection of PRV into juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in conjunction with 1.5mg/kg Z-FA-FMK did not affect PRV replication as measured by blood associated viral transcripts at 14days post challenge. These results indicate that aquatic ortho- and aqua-reoviruses appear to possess resilience to Z-FA-FMK relative to mammalian orthoreoviruses and suggest that environmental parameters or alternative mechanisms for viral replication may affect the efficacy of Z-FA-FMK as an antireoviral compound. Further, as Z-FA-FMK has been shown to irreversibly inhibit cysteine proteases such as cathepsins B and L in vitro at concentrations of ≤100μM, continued replication of IHNV (and possibly PRV) at 200μM Z-FA-FMK suggests that replication of these viruses can occur in a cathepsin-independent manner whereas CSRV likely requires cathepsins or similar cysteine proteases for successful replication.

Interactions between Ethanol, syn-2,3-Hexanediol, 3-Hydroxyhexan-2-one, and 3-Hydroxyoctan-2-one Lures on Trap Catches of Hardwood Longhorn Beetles in Southeastern United States

The effectiveness of a four-component "super lure" consisting of ethanol (E) and the cerambycid pheromones syn-2,3-hexanediol (D6), racemic 3-hydroxyhexan-2-one (K6), and racemic 3-hydroxyoctan-2-one (K8) on trap catches of Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) was determined in southeast United States with seven trapping experiments in 2011-2013. We captured 74 species of longhorn beetles in our three-year study. Ethanol significantly increased the mean catches of seven species and increased the number of cerambycid species detected. Traps with the "super lure" were effective for 8 of 13 species of Cerambycidae previously shown to be attracted to binary combinations of ethanol plus one of the three pheromones. However, the "super lure" was less effective for the remaining five species with catch reductions of 40-90% compared with combinations of ethanol and one or two of the pheromones. For example, K6 + K8 lures reduced catches of Anelaphus villosus (F.) in traps with E + D6 by 90%. Similarly, catches of Anelaphus pumilus (Newman) in traps with E + K6 + D6 were reduced by 50% with the addition of K8. Catches of Knulliana cincta (Drury) in traps with K6 + K8 lures were interrupted by D6, an effect negated by the addition of ethanol. Given the interruptive effects on trap catches of some species when lures are combined in a single trap, developing optimal lure blends to maximize detection efficacy will be a challenge for managers of detection programs for non-native invasive species of longhorn beetles.

Volatiles emitted by Bacillus sp. BCT9 act as growth modulating agents on Lactuca sativa seedlings

Chemical products are applied during horticulture to increase food production, but the environmental problems resulting from these applications have led to a search for more sustainable products. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) demonstrating plant growth promoter (PGP) activity released by bacterial species have emerged as alternatives, but their effects on Lactuca sativa growth are unknown. In this study, VOCs released by Bacillus sp. BCT9 cultures grown in different media (Methyl Red & Voges Proskauer, Murashige & Skoog and nutrient media) at concentrations of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 0.7 (measured as the absorbance, λ=600nm) were tested to evaluate their activity as growth inducers of L. sativa after 10days of exposure. Lower concentrations of BCT9 increased root length, and higher concentrations induced shoot length and lateral root length. The dry weight and number of lateral roots increased similarly, independent of concentration, for VOCs produced in all culture media. BCT9 cultures grown in Methyl Red & Voges Proskauer medium as bioactive compounds with or without lanolin. These VOCs increased shoot length, root length and dry weight at low concentrations, independent of the presence of lanolin. Lateral root length increased with the application of 2-nonanone (50ppm) and 2-undecanone (0.05ppm). Based on these results, the use of bioactive volatiles as growth inducers of horticultural species represents an alternative or complementary strategy.

A New Monoterpene from the Leaves of a Radiation Mutant Cultivar of Perilla frutescens var. crispa with Inhibitory Activity on LPS-Induced NO Production

The leaves of Perilla frutescens var. crispa (Lamiaceae)—known as ‘Jureum-soyeop’ or ‘Cha-jo-ki’ in Korean, ‘ZI SU YE’ in Chinese, and ‘Shiso’ in Japan—has been used as a medicinal herb. Recent gamma irradiated mutation breeding on P. frutescens var. crispa in our research group resulted in the development of a new perilla cultivar, P. frutescens var. crispa (cv. Antisperill; PFCA), which has a higher content of isoegomaketone. The leaves of PFCA were extracted by supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) extraction, and phytochemical investigation on this extract led to the isolation and identification of a new compound, 9-hydroxy-isoegomaketone [(2E)-1-(3-furanyl)-4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-penten-1-one; 1]. Compound 1 exhibited inhibitory activity on nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW264.7 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 14.4 μM. The compounds in the SC-CO₂ extracts of the radiation mutant cultivar and the original plant were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection.

Two pairs of rare naturally occurring 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2,5-heptanedione derivatives from the red alga Chondria crassicaulis

Two pairs of rare naturally occurring racemic lipids, (±)-4,7-dihydroxy-4-methyl-2,5-heptanedione (1), and (±)-7-butoxy-4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2,5-heptanedione (2) were isolated from the red alga Chondria crassicaulis Harv. The structures of the racemic mixtures of 1 and 2 were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic techniques, including 1D and 2D NMR (¹H and ¹³C NMR, ¹H-¹H COSY, HSQC, and HMBC) as well as mass spectrometry and optical rotation experiments, and by comparison with data for related known analogs. This is the first report of naturally occurring 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2,5-heptanedione derivatives. Antifungal, PTP1B inhibitory, and receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitory activities of these two compounds were investigated. The results showed that compounds 1 and 2 exhibited good selective inhibition against RET tyrosine kinase activity with IC₅₀ values of 9.56 and 8.93 μM, respectively. Compound 1 also displayed moderate antifungal activity against Cryptococcus neoformans (32609), showing a MIC₈₀ value of 32 μg/ml.

Lactone Derivatives Produced by a Phaeoacremonium sp., an Endophytic Fungus from Senna spectabilis

Three new isoaigialones, A, B, and C (1-3), along with aigialone (4), were isolated from the crude EtOAc extract of a Phaeoacremonium sp., an endophytic fungus obtained from the leaves of Senna spectabilis. The structures of these compounds were elucidated based on the analysis of spectroscopic data. Compounds 2 and 4 were active against the phytopathogenic fungi Cladosporium cladosporioides and C. sphaerospermum. This is the first report of metabolites produced by an Phaeoacremonium sp., associated with S. spectabilis.

Effects of 6-paradol, an unsaturated ketone from gingers, on cytochrome P450-mediated drug metabolism

Paradols are unsaturated ketones produced by biotransformation of shogaols in gingers. Among them, 6-paradol has been investigated as a new drug candidate due to its anti-inflammatory, apoptotic, and neuroprotective activities. In this study, the inhibitory effects of 6-paradol on the activities of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes were investigated with human liver microsomes and recombinant CYP isozymes. 6-Paradol showed concentration-dependent inhibitory effects on CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 isozymes, with IC50 values ranging from 3.8 to 21.4µM in recombinant CYP isozymes. However, the inhibition was not potentiated following pre-incubation, indicating that 6-paradol is not a mechanism-based inhibitor. These results suggest that pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions might occur with 6-paradol, which must be considered in the process of new drug development.

Synthesis and antibacterial activities of some novel 17, 18-unsaturated carbonyl compounds derivated from josamycin

Some novel josamycin derivatives bearing an arylalkyl-type side chain were designed and synthesized. By HWE or Wittig reaction, 16-aldehyde group of josamycin analogs were converted into unsaturated carbonyl compounds. They were evaluated for their in vitro antibacterial activities against a panel of respiratory pathogens. 8b and 8e exhibited comparable activities against a panel of respiratory pathogens, especially to resistant ones in the series of desmycarosyl josamycin analogs. Among of all the target molecules, 21 showed the best antibacterial activities.

Diketopyrrolopyrrole-Triphenylamine Organic Nanoparticles as Multifunctional Reagents for Photoacoustic Imaging-Guided Photodynamic/Photothermal Synergistic Tumor Therapy

Herein, a donor-acceptor-donor (D-A-D) structured small molecule (DPP-TPA) is designed and synthesized for photoacoustic imaging (PAI) guided photodynamic/photothermal synergistic therapy. In the diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) molecule, a thiophene group is contained to increase the intersystem crossing (ISC) ability through the heavy atom effect. Simultaneously, triphenylamine (TPA) is introduced for bathochromic shift absorption as well as charge transport capacity enhancement. After formation of nanoparticles (NPs, ∼76 nm) by reprecipitation, the absorption of DPP-TPA NPs further displays obvious bathochromic-shift with the maximum absorption peak at 660 nm. What's more, the NPs architecture enhances the D-A-D structure, which greatly increases the charge transport capacity and impels the charge to generate heat by light. DPP-TPA NPs present high photothermal conversion efficiency (η = 34.5%) and excellent singlet oxygen (¹O₂) generation (Φ_Δ = 33.6%) under 660 nm laser irradiation. PAI, with high spatial resolution and deep biotissue penetration, indicates DPP-TPA NPs can rapidly target the tumor sites within 2 h by the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Importantly, DPP-TPA NPs could effectively hinder the tumor growth by photodynamic/photothermal synergistic therapy in vivo even at a low dosage (0.2 mg/kg) upon laser irradiation (660 nm 1.0 W/cm²). This study illuminates the photothermal conversion mechanism of small organic NPs and demonstrates the promising application of DPP-TPA NPs in PAI guided phototherapy.

6-Paradol and 6-Shogaol, the Pungent Compounds of Ginger, Promote Glucose Utilization in Adipocytes and Myotubes, and 6-Paradol Reduces Blood Glucose in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

The anti-diabetic activity of ginger powder (Zingiber officinale) has been recently promoted, with the recommendation to be included as one of the dietary supplements for diabetic patients. However, previous studies presented different results, which may be caused by degradation and metabolic changes of ginger components, gingerols, shogaols and paradols. Therefore, we prepared 10 ginger active components, namely 6-, 8-, 10-paradols, 6-, 8-, 10-shogaols, 6-, 8-, 10-gingerols and zingerone, and evaluated their anti-hyperglycemic activity. Among the tested compounds, 6-paradol and 6-shogaol showed potent activity in stimulating glucose utilization by 3T3-L1 adipocytes and C2C12 myotubes. The effects were attributed to the increase in 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. 6-Paradol, the major metabolite of 6-shogaol, was utilized in an in vivo assay and significantly reduced blood glucose, cholesterol and body weight in high-fat diet-fed mice.

Activity of Eribulin in a Primary Culture of Well-Differentiated/Dedifferentiated Adipocytic Sarcoma

Eribulin mesylate is a novel, non-taxane, synthetic microtubule inhibitor showing antitumor activity in a wide range of tumors including soft tissue sarcomas (STS). Eribulin has been recently approved for the treatment of metastatic liposarcoma (LPS) patients previously treated with anthracyclines. This work investigated the mechanism of action of this innovative antitubulin agent in well-differentiated/dedifferentiated LPS (ALT/DDLPS) which represents one of the most common adipocytic sarcoma histotypes. A primary culture of ALT/DDLPS from a 54-year-old patient was established. The anticancer activity of eribulin on the patient-derived primary culture was assessed by MTT and tunel assays. Eribulin efficacy was compared to other drugs approved for the treatment of STS. Cell migration and morphology were examined after exposure to eribulin to better understand the drug mechanism of action. Finally, Western blot analysis of apoptosis and migration proteins was performed. The results showed that eribulin exerts its antiproliferative effect by the arrest of cell motility and induction of apoptosis. Our results highlighted the activity of eribulin in the treatment of ALT/DDLPS patients.

Inhibitory Activities of Essential Oil Obtained from Turmeric and Its Constituents against β-Secretase

The need for a preventive agent against dementia led us to screen natural plant resources. Among the herbs and spices tested, turmeric, from rhizomes of Curcuma longa, showed high potency against β-secretase. The active principles were determined as α-turmerone, β-turmerone and ar-turmerone, with IC(50) values of 39, 62 and 92 μM respectively. In this study, the efficiency of collecting the essential oil using steam distillation of the volatile substance was disclosed The active principles were explored, and four sesquiterpenoids and five monoterpenoids were revealed as active principles against β-secretase; On the other hand, α-turmerone, β-turmerone and ar-turmerone were also investigated in a pharmacokinetic absorption experiment. After oral administration, these compounds were detected in an intact form in the brain and serum. These results suggest that consumption of-turieric constituents may prevent dementia.

Analyses of Calcium-Independent Phospholipase A2beta (iPLA2β) in Biological Systems

The Ca²⁺-independent phospholipases A₂ (iPLA₂s) are part of a diverse family of PLA₂s, manifest activity in the absence of Ca²⁺, are ubiquitous, and participate in a variety of biological processes. Among the iPLA₂s, the cytosolic iPLA₂β has received considerable attention and ongoing studies from various laboratories suggest that dysregulation of iPLA₂β can have a profound impact on the onset and/or progression of many diseases (e.g., cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, autoimmune). Therefore, appropriate approaches are warranted to gain a better understanding of the role of iPLA₂β in vivo and its contribution to pathophysiology. Given that iPLA₂β is very labile, its basal expression is low in a number of cell systems, and that crystal structure of iPLA₂β is not yet available, careful and efficient protocols are needed to appropriately assess iPLA₂β biochemistry, dynamics, and membrane association. Here, step-by-step details are provided to (a) measure iPLA₂β-specific activity in cell lines or tissue preparations (using a simple radiolabel-based assay) and assess the impact of stimuli and inhibitors on resting- and disease-state iPLA₂β activity, (b) purify the iPLA₂β to near homogeneity (via sequential chromatography) from cell line or tissue preparations, enabling concentration of the enzyme for subsequent analyses (e.g., proteomics), and (c) employ hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry analyses to probe both the structure of iPLA₂β and dynamics of its association with the membranes, substrates, and inhibitors.

Synthesis and evaluation of phenylalanine-derived trifluoromethyl ketones for peptide-based oxidation catalysis

We report the synthesis of phenylalanine-derived trifluoromethyl ketones for the in situ generation of dioxiranes for the purpose of oxidation catalysis. The key features of this synthesis include the use of a masked ketone strategy and a Negishi cross-coupling to access the parent amino acid. The derivatives can be readily incorporated into a peptide for use in oxidation chemistry and exhibit good stability and reactivity.

Heteroannelation of Cyclic Ketones: Synthesis, Characterization and Antitumor Evaluation of Some Condensed Azine Derivatives

A series of pyrimidine and thiazine derivatives was synthesized by one-pot reaction of cyclopentanone with a mixture of an aromatic aldehyde, namely o-anisaldehyde, and different ureas, namely urea, guanidine and thiourea, respectively. Furthermore, cycloaddition reaction of active methylene reagents, namely acetyl acetone, malononitrile, ethyl cyanoacetate, cyanoacetamide and N-phenyl cyanoacetamide with 2,6-bis(2-methoxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone afforded chromene and quinoline derivatives in basic medium. The antitumor evaluation of some new compounds against three human cell lines, namely MCF-7, NCI-H460 and SF-268 showed significant and moderate activity compared with the positive control doxorubicin.

In vitro Antigonorrhea Activity of the Aerial Part of Asparagus suaveolens n-Hexane Fraction and Palmitone as a Bioactive Compound

Asparagus suaveolens is a medicinal plant used in Lesotho and South Africa to treat epilepsy and gonorrhea. The current investigation identifies the compound responsible for the antiepileptic and antimicrobial properties as palmitone which showed antigonorrhea activities against WHO 2008 Neisseria gonorrhea F and 0 strains more than the standard used, gentamicin. These results support the traditional use of A. suaveolens for treatment of gonorrhea and epilepsy since palmitone is known as an anticonvulsant agent. This is the first study indicating the presence of palmitone in the Asparagus genus and demonstrates the in vitro antigonorrhea activity of palmitone.

Antinociceptive Effect of 3-(2,3-Dimethoxyphenyl)-1-(5-methylfuran-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one in Mice Models of Induced Nociception

The antinociceptive effects produced by intraperitoneal administration of a novel synthetic chalcone, 3-(2,3-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-(5-methylfuran-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (DMFP), were investigated in several mouse models of induced nociception. The administration of DMFP (0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 mg/kg) produced significant attenuation on the acetic acid-induced abdominal-writhing test. It also produced a significant increase in response latency time in the hot-plate test and a marked reduction in time spent licking the injected paw in both phases of the formalin-induced paw-licking test. In addition, it was also demonstrated that DMFP exhibited significant inhibition of the neurogenic nociceptive response induced by intraplantar injections of capsaicin and glutamate. Moreover, the antinociceptive effect of DMFP in the acetic acid-induced abdominal-writhing test and the hot-plate test was not antagonized by pretreatment with a non-selective opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone. Finally, DMFP did not show any toxic effects and/or mortality in a study of acute toxicity and did not interfere with motor coordination during the Rota-rod test. Our present results show that DMFP exhibits both peripheral and central antinociceptive effects. It was suggested that its peripheral antinociceptive activity is associated with attenuated production and/or release of NO and various pro-inflammatory mediators, while central antinociceptive activity seems to be unrelated to the opioidergic system, but could involve, at least in part, an interaction with the inhibition of capsaicin-sensitive fibers and the glutamatergic system.

Inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis dihydrodipicolinate synthase by alpha-ketopimelic acid and its other structural analogues

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis dihydrodipicolinate synthase (Mtb-dapA) is an essential gene. Mtb-DapA catalyzes the aldol condensation between pyruvate and L-aspartate-beta-semialdehyde (ASA) to yield dihydrodipicolinate. In this work we tested the inhibitory effects of structural analogues of pyruvate on recombinant Mtb-DapA (Mtb-rDapA) using a coupled assay with recombinant dihydrodipicolinate reductase (Mtb-rDapB). Alpha-ketopimelic acid (α-KPA) showed maximum inhibition of 88% and IC50 of 21 μM in the presence of pyruvate (500 μM) and ASA (400 μM). Competition experiments with pyruvate and ASA revealed competition of α-KPA with pyruvate. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) data with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) showed that the relative abundance peak of final product, 2,3,4,5-tetrahydrodipicolinate, was decreased by 50%. Thermal shift assays showed 1 °C Tm shift of Mtb-rDapA upon binding α-KPA. The 2.4 Å crystal structure of Mtb-rDapA-α-KPA complex showed the interaction of critical residues at the active site with α-KPA. Molecular dynamics simulations over 500 ns of pyruvate docked to Mtb-DapA and of α-KPA-bound Mtb-rDapA revealed formation of hydrogen bonds with pyruvate throughout in contrast to α-KPA. Molecular descriptors analysis showed that ligands with polar surface area of 91.7 Å(2) are likely inhibitors. In summary, α-hydroxypimelic acid and other analogues could be explored further as inhibitors of Mtb-DapA.

1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione Induces G1 Cell Cycle Arrest and Autophagy in HeLa Cervical Cancer Cells

The natural agent, 1-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione (HMDB), has been reported to have growth inhibitory effects on several human cancer cells. However, the role of HMDB in cervical cancer remains unclear. Herein, we found that HMDB dose- and time-dependently inhibited growth of HeLa cervical cancer cells, accompanied with G1 cell cycle arrest. HMDB decreased protein expression of cyclins D1/D3/E and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) 2/4/6 and reciprocally increased mRNA and protein levels of CDK inhibitors (p15, p16, p21, and p27), thereby leading to the accumulation of hypophosphorylated retinoblastoma (Rb) protein. HMDB also triggered the accumulation of acidic vesicles and formation of microtubule-associated protein-light chain 3 (LC3), followed by increased expression of LC3 and Beclin-1 and decreased expression of p62, suggesting that HMDB triggered autophagy in HeLa cells. Meanwhile, suppression of the expression of survivin and Bcl-2 implied that HMDB-induced autophagy is tightly linked to apoptosis. Exploring the action mechanism, HMDB induced autophagy via the modulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and mTOR signaling pathway rather than the class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway. These results suggest that HMDB inhibits HeLa cell growth by eliciting a G1 arrest through modulation of G1 cell cycle regulators and by concomitantly inducing autophagy through the mediation of AMPK-mTOR and Akt-mTOR pathways, and may be a promising antitumor agent against cervical cancer.

In Vitro and in Vivo Evaluation of Silicate-Coated Polyetheretherketone Fabricated by Electron Beam Evaporation

Intrinsic bioinertness severely hampers the application of polyetheretherketone (PEEK), although in the field of dentistry it is considered to be an ideal titanium substitute implanting material. In this study, a bioactive silicate coating was successfully introduced onto PEEK surface by using electron beam evaporation (EBE) technology to improve its bioactivity and osseointegration of PEEK. Through controlling the duration of EBE, the incorporated amounts of silicon (Si) could be exquisitely adjusted to obtain proper biofunctionality, as assessed by cell adhesion, proliferation, osteogenic gene expression, and protein detection. In vivo, the samples were then tested in a femur implantation model to assay osseointegration effects in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Remarkable enhancement of adhesion, spreading, osteogenesis, and differentiation of bone marrow stem cells (rBMSCs-OVX) were noted on silicate-coated samples. In particular, the group that was processed for 5 min with EBE (EBE-5 min) showed the most improvements in ALP activity and osteogenic-related gene expression compared to the remaining groups. Better osseointegration of the group that was processed for 8 min with EBE (EBE-8 min) was observed in vivo, as indicated by micro-CT test, fluorescent labeling, and histological and histomorphometric analyses. Collectively, the outcomes of the above experiments demonstrate that the present work is a meaningful attempt to promote osseointegration under osteoporotic conditions with only Si element incorporated to PEEK surface by the application of EBE technique. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first demonstration of tuning the surface properties of PEEK via the adoption of an EBE-fabricated silicate coating to address an osteoporotic problem both in vitro and in vivo.

Subtypes of Triple-negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines React Differently to Eribulin Mesylate

BACKGROUND/AIM

Diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with adverse prognosis, particularly in cases of chemotherapy resistance. The goal of this analysis was to compare TNBC vs. non-TNBC cell lines and those of distinct TNBC subtypes with regard to sensitivity to eribulin in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Breast cancer cell lines were subjected to cell-viability assays, apoptosis analyses, migration and invasion experiments, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction after exposure to eribulin.

RESULTS

Eribulin reduced cell viability in TNBC and non-TNBC cell lines in the sub-nanomolar range. Furthermore, exposure to eribulin induced apoptosis and decreased the rate of migration and invasion. Genes known to induce malignant transformation were differentially expressed after eribulin treatment.

CONCLUSION

Eribulin had a strong antiproliferative effect on breast cancer cell lines, although we did not observe a significant difference between TNBC and non-TNBC cell lines with regard to sensitivity to eribulin.

Anti-Oxidative Activity of Mytiloxanthin, a Metabolite of Fucoxanthin in Shellfish and Tunicates

Anti-oxidative activities of mytiloxanthin, a metabolite of fucoxanthin in shellfish and tunicates, were investigated. Mytiloxanthin showed almost the same activities for quenching singlet oxygen and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation as those of astaxanthin, which is a well-known singlet oxygen quencher. Furthermore, mytiloxanthin showed excellent scavenging activity for hydroxyl radicals and this activity was markedly higher than that of astaxanthin.

Sustained Accumulation of Microtubule-Binding Chemotherapy Drugs in the Peripheral Nervous System: Correlations with Time Course and Neurotoxic Severity

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a dose-limiting side effect of many antineoplastic agents, but the mechanisms underlying the toxicities are unclear. At their MTDs, the microtubule-binding drugs paclitaxel and ixabepilone induce more severe neuropathy in mice relative to eribulin mesylate, paralleling their toxicity profiles in clinic. We hypothesized that the severity of their neurotoxic effects might be explained by the levels at which they accumulate in the peripheral nervous system. To test this hypothesis, we compared their pharmacokinetics and distribution in peripheral nerve tissue. After administration of a single intravenous dose, each drug was rapidly cleared from plasma but all persisted in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and sciatic nerve (SN) for up to 72 hours. Focusing on paclitaxel and eribulin, we performed a 2-week MTD-dosing regimen, followed by a determination of drug pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and multiple functional measures of peripheral nerve toxicity for 4 weeks. Consistent with the acute dosing study, both drugs persisted in peripheral nervous tissues for weeks, in contrast to their rapid clearance from plasma. Notably, although eribulin exhibited greater DRG and SN penetration than paclitaxel, the neurotoxicity observed functionally was consistently more severe with paclitaxel. Overall, our results argue that sustained exposure of microtubule-binding chemotherapeutic agents in peripheral nerve tissues cannot by itself account for their associated neurotoxicity. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3332-9. ©2016 AACR.

Yeast one-hybrid screening the potential regulator of CYP6B6 overexpression of Helicoverpa armigera under 2-tridecanone stress

In insect, the cytochrome P450 plays a pivotal role in detoxification to toxic allelochemicals. Helicoverpa armigera can tolerate and survive in 2-tridecanone treatment owing to the CYP6B6 responsive expression, which is controlled by some regulatory DNA sequences and transcription regulators. Therefore, the 2-tridecanone responsive region and transcription regulators of the CYP6B6 are responsible for detoxification of cotton bollworm. In this study, we used yeast one-hybrid to screen two potential transcription regulators of the CYP6B6 from H. armigera that respond to the plant secondary toxicant 2-tridecanone, which were named Prey1 and Prey2, respectively. According to the NCBI database blast, Prey1 is the homology with FK506 binding protein (FKBP) of Manduca sexta and Bombyx mori that belongs to the FKBP-C superfamily, while Prey2 may be a homology of an unknown protein of Papilio or the fcaL24 protein homology of B. mori. The electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed that the FKBP of prokaryotic expression could specifically bind to the active region of the CYP6B6 promoter. After the 6th instar larvae of H. armigera reared on 2-tridecanone artificial diet, we found there were similar patterns of CYP6B6 and FKBP expression of the cotton bollworm treated with 10 mg g-1 2-tridecanone for 48 h, which correlation coefficient was the highest (0.923). Thus, the FKBP is identified as a strong candidate for regulation of the CYP6B6 expression, when the cotton bollworm is treated with 2-tridecanone. This may lead us to a better understanding of transcriptional mechanism of CYP6B6 and provide very useful information for the pest control.

Antimitotic and Non-mitotic Effects of Eribulin Mesilate in Soft Tissue Sarcoma

BACKGROUND

Eribulin mesilate (eribulin), a first-in-class halichondrin B-based microtubule dynamics inhibitor, has been shown to promote vascular remodeling and reversal of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) apart from its antimitotic activity in breast cancer models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-proliferative activity of eribulin was examined in vitro and in vivo in several human soft tissue sarcoma (STS) cell lines. To assess tumor blood perfusion and phenotypic changes, eribulin was investigated in a leiomyosarcoma xenograft and in vitro in liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma cell lines.

RESULTS

Eribulin showed anti-proliferative activity in vitro against all six cell lines investigated, with 50% inhibitory concentration values of around 1 nmol/l, as well as significant antitumor activity against four xenografts in vivo. In addition, eribulin significantly enhanced tumor blood perfusion in xenografts and induced morphological changes and up-regulation of differentiation marker genes.

CONCLUSION

In pre-clinical models, eribulin showed anti-proliferative activity against a variety of histopathological subtypes of STS. Eribulin might also cause tumor vasculature remodeling to enhance tumor blood perfusion and induce tumor cell differentiation.

Suboptimal Larval Habitats Modulate Oviposition of the Malaria Vector Mosquito Anopheles coluzzii

Selection of oviposition sites by gravid females is a critical behavioral step in the reproductive cycle of Anopheles coluzzii, which is one of the principal Afrotropical malaria vector mosquitoes. Several studies suggest this decision is mediated by semiochemicals associated with potential oviposition sites. To better understand the chemosensory basis of this behavior and identify compounds that can modulate oviposition, we examined the generally held hypothesis that suboptimal larval habitats give rise to semiochemicals that negatively influence the oviposition preference of gravid females. Dual-choice bioassays indicated that oviposition sites conditioned in this manner do indeed foster significant and concentration dependent aversive effects on the oviposition site selection of gravid females. Headspace analyses derived from aversive habitats consistently noted the presence of dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS) and 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one (sulcatone) each of which unitarily affected An. coluzzii oviposition preference. Electrophysiological assays across the antennae, maxillary palp, and labellum of gravid An. coluzzii revealed differential responses to these semiochemicals. Taken together, these findings validate the hypothesis in question and suggest that suboptimal environments for An. coluzzii larval development results in the release of DMDS, DMTS and sulcatone that impact the response valence of gravid females.