Development of pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-grafted coumarins as selective carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and tubulin polymerization inhibitors with potent anticancer activity

This study presents the design, synthesis, and evaluation of a novel series of coumarin-based compounds (9a-t) as potential anticancer agents. The compounds were strategically designed to inhibit cancer-related carbonic anhydrase (CA) isoforms IX and XII and tubulin polymerization. Two approaches were employed for CA inhibition: utilizing the coumarin motif to occlude the CA active site entrance and incorporating zinc-binding groups (sulfonamide, carboxylic acid, and thiol) to interact with the catalytic zinc ion. The target compounds were also designed to inhibit tubulin polymerization by combining the privileged coumarin and pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine scaffolds. Biological evaluation of the target compounds (9a-t) revealed that sulfonamide-containing derivatives 9h and 9r exhibited potent inhibitory activity in the low nanomolar range against CA IX (Ki = 23 and 14 nM, respectively) and CA XII (Ki = 6 and 17 nM, respectively). In NCI-60 human tumor cell line screening, compounds 9k, 9m, and 9q demonstrated broad-spectrum anti-proliferative activity in the five-dose assay with MG-MID values of 7.31 μM, 10.68 μM, and 5.92 μM, respectively. Compound 9m showed significant tubulin polymerization inhibition with an IC50 = 5.28 μM, surpassing the efficacy of colchicine. Cell cycle analysis in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells revealed G2/M phase arrest for 9m, which induced significant apoptosis and modulated apoptotic markers. Molecular docking studies provided insights into the binding modes of the compounds with CA IX, CA XII, and tubulin. ADMET and toxicity predictions were performed to assess the drug-like properties of the compounds. These findings pave the way for further optimization of the coumarin scaffold to develop dual inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase IX/XII and tubulin polymerization.

The secondary metabolites of the alga-derived fungus Aspergillus niveoglaucus КММ 4176 and their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities

Marine alga-derived fungal strain КММ 4176 was identified as Aspergillus niveoglaucus based on ITS region BenA, CaM and RPB2 gene sequence analysis. The anthraquinone derivatives emodin anthrone (1) and 4-hydroxyemodin anthrone (2), chromone derivative aloesone (3), and indole diketopiperazine alkaloid neoechinulin B (4) were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of this fungus. In addition, UPLC MS data analysis of the KMM 4176 extract showed the presence of 17 echinulin-family alkaloids, as well as their biogenetic precursor cyclo(L-alanyl-L-tryptophyl) and a number of polyketide compounds. Emodin anthrone and 4-hydroxyemodin anthrone were found as inhibitors of biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 5.5 µM and 23.7 µM, respectively. Moreover, emodin anthrone (1) and 4-hydroxyemodin anthrone (2) inhibited staphylococcal sortase A activity with IC50 of 9.2 µM and 37.6 µM, respectively. Aloesone (3) also inhibited S. aureus biofilm formation but was less active. The first data on neoechinulin B (4) antibiofilm activity and sortase A inhibition were obtained. The positive effects of the isolated compounds on the growth of HaCaT keratinocytes infected with S. aureus were also observed.

STING Activation in Various Cell Types in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

BACKGROUND

During the hepatic histological progression in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), the immunological mechanisms play a the pivotal role, especially when progressing to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The discovery of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) marked a significant advancement in understanding the immune system.

METHODS

We searched literature on STING involved in MASLD in PubMed to summarise the role of intrahepatic or extrahepatic STING signal pathways and the potential agonists or inhibitors of STING in MASLD.

RESULTS

Besides inflammation and type I interferon response induced by STING activation in the intrahepatic or extrahepatic immune cells, STING activation in hepatocytes leads to protein aggregates and lipid deposition. STING activation in hepatic macrophages inhibits autophagy in hepatocytes and promotes hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation. STING activation in HSCs promotes HSC activation and exacerbates liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) impairment. However, it was also reported that STING activation in hepatic macrophages promotes lipophagy in hepatocytes and STING activation in HSCs leads to HSC senescence. STING activation in LSEC, inhibits angiogenesis. For extrahepatic tissue, STING signalling participates in the regulation of the intestinal permeability, intestinal microecology and insulin action in adipocytes, which were all involved in the pathogenesis of MASLD.

CONCLUSION

There're plenty of STING ligands in MASLD. How STING activation affects the intercellular conversation in MASLD deserves thorough investigation.

Nature-inspired surface modification strategies for implantable devices

Medical and implantable devices are essential instruments in contemporary healthcare, improving patient quality of life and meeting diverse clinical requirements. However, ongoing problems such as bacterial colonization, biofilm development, foreign body responses, and insufficient device-tissue adhesion hinder the long-term effectiveness and stability of these devices. Traditional methods to alleviate these issues frequently prove inadequate, necessitating the investigation of nature-inspired alternatives. Biomimetic surfaces, inspired by the chemical and physical principles found in biological systems, present potential opportunities to address these challenges. Recent breakthroughs in manufacturing techniques, including lithography, vapor deposition, self-assembly, and three-dimensional printing, now permit precise control of surface properties at the micro- and nanoscale. Biomimetic coatings can diminish inflammation, prevent bacterial adherence, and enhance stable tissue integration by replicating the antifouling, antibacterial, and adhesive properties observed in creatures such as geckos, mussels, and biological membranes. This review emphasizes the cutting-edge advancements in biomimetic surfaces for medical and implantable devices, outlining their design methodologies, functional results, and prospective clinical applications. Biomimetic coatings, by integrating biological inspiration with advanced surface engineering, have the potential to revolutionize implantable medical devices, providing safer, more lasting, and more effective interfaces for prolonged patient benefit.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Bakuchiol From Psoralea corylifolia L. as Potent Antimicrobial Agent Against Staphylococcus aureus

The surge in multidrug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus is the pressing need to identify novel alternatives to combat antimicrobial resistance effectively. Bakuchiol is a bioactive prenylated phenolic meroterpene largely abundant in the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia. In this study, we present the biological assessment of bakuchiol derived from P. corylifolia as an antimicrobial agent. S. aureus, a significant opportunistic pathogen, attracts global concern for its biofilm formation and resilience against numerous antibiotics, escaping antibiotic pressure. The primary screening of bakuchiol as an antimicrobial agent against S. aureus delineated its potential as a strong bactericidal agent with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 2 and 8 µg/mL, respectively. Importantly, bakuchiol also exhibited low toxicity against HepG2 cells, showing a favorable selectivity index (SI) of 14.4. Furthermore, bakuchiol demonstrated comparable activity (MIC = 2 µg/mL) against a laboratory-generated ciprofloxacin-resistant mutant of S. aureus. Bakuchiol could significantly inhibit the biofilm formation of S. aureus in a dose-dependent manner with minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC)50 of 0.956 µg/mL. Bakuchiol effectively inhibited DNA gyrase supercoiling activity at a concentration eight times the MIC, establishing DNA gyrase inhibition as the mechanism of action for bakuchiol. Our findings suggest bakuchiol as a potential therapeutic agent for S. aureus-mediated nosocomial infections.

A peptide-based fluorescent bioprobe for EphA2-overexpressing tumor targeting and image-guided surgical resection

Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) is an emerging and highly promising surgical technique in clinic. Owing to its real-time and visual characteristics, it assists in achieving clear pictures on lesion site, tumor boundary and degree of metastasis, which will definitely improve surgery accuracy and minimize cancer recurrence as much as possible. Herein, we report a near-infrared fluorescent bioprobe, YK80, which utilizes a modified heptamethine cyanine dye as the fluorophore and a self-assembling peptide targeting Ephrin receptor A2 (EphA2) proteins as the ligand. The design strategy and the synthetic route to YK80 are described, and then optical properties, pharmacokinetics, binding affinity between YK80 and the protein are further investigated. YK80 shows high affinity (KD ≈ 100 nM) with EphA2-expressing cancer cells and excellent targeting ability in mouse models bearing colorectal tumors. Meanwhile, indocyanine green (ICG), the commonly used non-targeted fluorescent contrast agent is employed as the comparison for in vivo experiments. However, ICG owns no such capability towards cancer cells or solid tumors. Thus, YK80 could potentially serve as a targeted contrast agent for image-guided surgery and this successful example will boost the development of medical imaging, surgical methods as well as translational medicine.

Exploring the clinical trials, regulatory insights, and challenges of PROTACs in oncology

While various targeted therapies exist for cancer, resistance mechanisms remain a significant challenge. Recent advancements in cancer treatment have led to the emergence of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), a promising technology utilizing hetero-bifunctional molecules to target and degrade proteins implicated in cancer progression through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). PROTACs offer a novel approach, with recent studies and clinical trials demonstrating promising outcomes in degrading endogenous proteins linked to cancer. This work explores classification, regulatory approvals, and ongoing clinical trials of PROTAC technology in cancer management. It emphasizes the importance of regulatory compliance to expedite approvals from relevant authorities. It also highlights challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation. Despite these preliminary efforts, PROTACs show immense potential in effectively addressing cancer. Their ability to target specific proteins for degradation represents a significant advancement in cancer therapeutics, offering new hope for improved outcomes in patient care.

A Journey Around Boronic Acids: Sulfonyl Hydrazone-Containing Derivatives as Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors

Recently, a rising interest in boronic acids and their derivatives was recorded in the Medicinal Chemistry field due to their high versatility and broad applicability as bioactive compounds in several diseases, including cancer and microbial infections. The ability of boronic acid moieties to bind zinc ions was first hypothesized by the inhibitory activity of bortezomib, a boron-containing protease inhibitor, on different isoforms of the Carbonic Anhydrase (CA, EC: 4.2.1.1) enzyme family and then assessed through X-ray crystallographic studies on benzoxaboroles in complex with hCA II. These findings, along with the overexpression of isoforms IX and XII in hypoxic cancer and, in particular, breast cancer, drove us to explore the chemical space around the phenylboronic acids by generating a focused library of 16 derivatives (1-4a-d) decorated with alkyl sulfonyl hydrazones. The compounds were then subjected to stopped flow-based inhibition assays on a panel of hCAs, including the tumor-associated isoforms, revealing low micromolar inhibition constants (KIs) in some cases. However, antiproliferative assays conducted on a human triple-negative breast cancer cell line showed a lack of activity at the tested concentrations.

Efflux-Enhanced Imidazoquinolines To Exploit Chemoresistance

The imidazoquinoline family of toll-like receptor (TLR) immune cell agonists has long demonstrated moderate anticancer immunogenic effects by activating tumoricidal immune cells and depleting immunosuppressive cells within the tumor microenvironment. At a molecular level, we have also established that several imidazoquinolines traffic from within cancer cells to the extracellular space via P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux, a process commonly upregulated as multidrug-resistant (MDR) cancers acquire chemoresistance. However, imidazoquinoline P-gp efflux has never been deliberately enhanced to exploit this process. This study pioneers efforts to optimize imidazoquinoline efflux, ultimately balancing immunogenic potency alongside functional efflux susceptibility. Starting from an established imidazoquinoline scaffold previously optimized for potency, efflux was significantly enhanced by elaborating the N1 benzylic position with amide- and sulfonamide-linked P-gp affinity fragments consisting of empirically established P-gp substrates as well as computationally predicted P-gp binders. Lead compounds were identified from this series that exhibited enhanced P-gp efflux with functional retention of TLR agonism. Similar to the parent imidazoquinoline scaffold, leads had limited direct cytotoxicity in both treatment-naive and MDR B16 melanoma models and did not significantly affect the efficacy or trafficking of the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin. Efflux-enhanced imidazoquinolines were preferentially expelled from MDR-B16 cells relative to treatment-naive cells, resulting in immunogenicity that was enhanced as a consequence of the acquired MDR phenotype. Because enhanced P-gp-mediated efflux is common to most MDR cancer types, we envision that these results could inspire the design of immunotherapeutic drugs with mechanisms of action that are broadly enhanced in MDR cancers that have failed treatment or acquired resistance to chemotherapeutics.

Co-crystallization in Antiepileptic Drugs: A Path Toward Better Therapeutic Outcomes

Pharmaceutical cocrystals are highly valued in drug development as they can enhance active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)' physicochemical characteristics without changing their chemical structure. This is especially important for biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS) class II and IV drugs, which have poor water solubility, resulting in low bioavailability. Co-crystallization is the process of forming a crystalline solid where the API and a co-former are combined in a specified stoichiometric proportion within a crystal lattice, mainly stabilized by non-covalent interactions. This method can enhance properties like stability, dissolution rate, solubility, compressibility, and powder flowability and pharmacokinetics, resulting in an improved drug delivery system and therapeutic effectiveness. Pharmaceutical antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the main focus of this review. Pharmaceutical characteristics, conventional and advanced cocrystal generation, and assessment techniques, as well as recent developments related to cocrystals, may suggest perception for cocrystal potential, design approaches, and regulatory aspects. The study's overall finding emphasizes the growth of co-crystallization as a significant technique to enhance the drug's performance and also demonstrates its potential as a significant technique in the AED category and its future application.

PRMT7 Inhibitor SGC3027 Enhances Radiotherapy Efficacy via Activating ATM Kinase in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of tumor-related death in humans. Radiotherapy is a crucial strategy for NSCLC treatment, although its effectiveness is limited by the radio-resistance of tumor cells. Our current research finds that the protein arginine methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7) is upregulated in NSCLC and correlates with poor prognosis. Pharmacological inhibition of PRMT7 by SGC3027, a specific small-molecule PRMT7 inhibitor, suppresses the proliferation, migration and invasion of NSCLC. Combining irradiation with SGC3027 strengthens the impact of irradiation on the biological behaviors of NSCLC cells. We also find that SGC3027 specifically activates ATM kinase and its downstream cell cycle checkpoint kinases to enhance radiobiological response in NSCLC. These findings underscore the promising therapeutic potential of PRMT7 inhibitors as well as combining PRMT7 inhibition with irradiation exposure for effective NSCLC therapies.

Terramide A: a novel ironophore targeting Acinetobacter baumannii with mechanistic insights into bacterial iron deprivation

Acetobacter baumannii poses escalating clinical challenges due to its exceptional adaptability, demanding innovative antimicrobial strategies. This study pioneers an investigation into the antibacterial efficacy and molecular mechanism of Terramide A, a hydroxamate siderophore isolated from Aspergillus terreus, against notorious A. baumannii. Employing a multidisciplinary approach integrating phenotypic characterization with mechanistic interrogation, we demonstrate that Terramide A exerts significant inhibitory effects against A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa, pathogens critically dependent on siderophore-mediated iron acquisition for survival and virulence. Structural characterization underlines the hydroxamate moieties of Terramide A presumably supports its hypothesized role as a fungal siderophore, involving competitive iron sequestration and bacterial homeostasis. Subsequently, multi-omics investigation of susceptible strain AB19606 delineated a metabolic collapse cascade due to iron acquisition competition: (1) impairment of central metabolism and energy production through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHO) inhibitions; (2) compromised stress adaptation and bacterial flexibility; (3) compensatory overactivation of siderophores biosynthesis and transportation, depleting metabolic intermediates and exacerbating stress; (4) coordinated suppression of virulence determinants, such as secretory systems and biofilm formation. These molecular derangements translated into phenotypic deficits, including quorum sensing, diminished autoinducer peptides production, and morphological/functional abnormalities. In vivo evaluation in a rat skin wound infection model further demonstrated that Terramide A promotes wound healing and mitigates inflammation, supporting its antibacterial efficacy. These findings establish Terramide A as a promising antibacterial agent and provide critical insights into iron-competitive antimicrobial strategies to exploit micro-nutrient deprivation and metabolic dysfunction. However, further research is needed to optimize the siderophore-based scaffold, clarify its mechanisms, and assess therapeutic potential.

Deciphering insights into the binding mechanism and plasticity of Telacebec with M. tuberculosis cytochrome bcc-aa3 supercomplex through an unbiased molecular dynamics simulation, free-energy analysis, and DFT study

The cytochrome bcc-aa3 supercomplex, a key component in the electron transport chain pathway involved in bacterial energy production and homeostasis, is a clinically validated target for tuberculosis (TB), leading to Telacebec (Q203). Telacebec is a potent candidate drug under Phase II clinical development for the treatment of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB. Recently, the cryo-electron microscopy structure of this supercomplex from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) complexed with Q203 was resolved at 6.9 Å resolution (PDB ID: 7E1W). To understand the binding site (QP site) flexibility and Q203's stability at the QP site of the Mtb cytochrome bcc complex, we conducted molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and free energy analysis on this complex in an explicit hydrated lipid bilayer environment for 500 ns. Through this study, the persistence of a range of direct and indirect interactions was observed over the course of the simulation. The significance of the interactions with His375, Tyr161, Ala178, Ala179, Ile183, His355, Leu356, and Thr313 is underlined. Electrostatic energy was the primary source of the net binding free energy, regardless of the important interacting residues. The overall binding free energy for Q203 was -112.84 ± 7.73 kcal/mol, of which the electrostatic and lipophilic energy contributions were -116.31 ± 1.14 and -21.32 ± 2.35 kcal/mol, respectively. Meanwhile, DFT calculations were utilized to elucidate Q203's molecular properties. Overall, this study deciphers key insights into the cytochrome bcc-aa3 supercomplex with Q203 on the ground of molecular mechanics and quantum mechanics that may facilitate structure-based drug design and optimization for the discovery of the next-generation antitubercular drug(s).

The CDK12-BRCA1 signaling axis mediates dinaciclib-associated radiosensitivity through p53-mediated cellular senescence

Pan-cyclin-dependent-kinase (CDK) inhibitors are a new class of targeted therapies that can act on multiple CDKs, with dinaciclib being one of the most promising compounds. Although used as a monotherapy, an interesting approach could be to combine it with radiotherapy. Here, we show that dinaciclib increases radiosensitivity in some experimental models of lung and colon cancer (A549 or HCT 116) but not in others (H1299 or HT-29). Dinaciclib did not alter serine-protein kinase ATM signalling or cell cycle profiling after ionising-radiation exposure, which have been described for other CDK inhibitors. Interestingly, in terms of apoptosis, although the combination renders a clear increase, no potentiation of the ionising-radiation-induced apoptosis was observed. Mechanistically, inhibition of CDK12 by dinaciclib diminishes BRCA1 expression, which decreases homologous recombination (HR) and probably promotes the nonhomologous end joining repair process (NHEJ), which ultimately promotes the induction of ionising-radiation-associated cellular senescence in a TP53-dependent manner, explaining the lack of effect observed in some experimental models. In conclusion, our report proposes a molecular mechanism, based on the signalling axis CDK12-BRCA1, involved in this newly identified therapeutic effect of dinaciclib, although other players implicated in HR should not be discarded. In addition, our data provide a rationale for more selective and personalised chemo/radiotherapy treatment according to the genetic background of the tumour.

Novel (-)-eigallocatechin-3-gallate-erlotinib conjugates via triazole rings inhibit non-small cell lung cancer cells through EGFR signaling pathway

EGFR is frequently overexpressed in non-small cell lung cancer, and EGFR plays a crucial role in the occurrence and progression of malignant tumors. Currently, drug resistance often develops following treatment with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as erlotinib and gefitinib. Therefore, It is essential to investigate new compounds that can effectively target EGFR overexpression. The polyphenols epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), found in tea, have demonstrated anti-cancer properties. In this study, we linked EGCG and erlotinib through a click reaction using polyglycol to form an EGCG-erlotinib conjugated compounds (EGCG-Erls). We then explored its biological activity through various experiments. The results indicated that the compound 10 exhibited a superior inhibitory effect on NCI-H1975 cells, reduced their cloning and migratory capabilities, promoted cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell cycle progression. Furthermore, it was observed that compound 10 can bind to the EGFR protein and effectively inhibit the expression of phosphorylated EGFR (p-EGFR) and its downstream signaling proteins. Overall, the study suggests that compound 10 may induce apoptosis and inhibit cell proliferation via the EGFR signaling pathway, providing a promising avenue for the development of new EGFR inhibitors.

Recent developments of pyrimidine appended HIV-1 non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is an ailment that progressively weakens the immune system and is responsible for being the sole cause of 630,000 deaths worldwide in 2023. It is a potentially fatal condition that promotes the growth of malignancies and secondary infection. Viruses like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) employ an enzyme, reverse transcriptase (RT), to replicate their genomes and spread across the host genome. RT has proved to be one of the most important therapeutic targets for the treatment of AIDS as well as for the development of new HIV-1 medications. The pyrimidine nucleus has been described as a dynamic cornerstone in developing new anti-HIV-1 medications and represents a familiar motif found in various marketed anti-HIV-1 drugs, such as diaryl pyrimidines (DAPYs). The rapid emergence of drug-resistant viral strains due to mutations in the HIV-1 RT structure along with their unfavourable pharmacokinetics present new challenges. Recent years have witnessed tremendous progress in the design and discovery of new substituted pyrimidines as potent and selective non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs). Further, the current developments in the field of X-ray crystallography and molecular modeling have remarkably augmented the design strategies, with simultaneous improvement in the resistance profiles. This article comprehensively reviews recent trends in the design and development of pyrimidine-based HIV-1 NNRTIs. The study emphasizes their biological activities, structure-activity relationship, and docking studies to guide the rational design of NNRTIs with desired potency, safety, and efficacy.

Health position paper and redox perspectives - Bench to bedside transition for pharmacological regulation of NRF2 in noncommunicable diseases

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a redox-activated transcription factor regulating cellular defense against oxidative stress, thereby playing a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Its dysregulation is implicated in the progression of a wide array of human diseases, making NRF2 a compelling target for therapeutic interventions. However, challenges persist in drug discovery and safe targeting of NRF2, as unresolved questions remain especially regarding its context-specific role in diseases and off-target effects. This comprehensive review discusses the dualistic role of NRF2 in disease pathophysiology, covering its protective and/or destructive roles in autoimmune, respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases, as well as diseases of the digestive system and cancer. Additionally, we also review the development of drugs that either activate or inhibit NRF2, discuss main barriers in translating NRF2-based therapies from bench to bedside, and consider the ways to monitor NRF2 activation in vivo.

Sodium ibuprofenate: antibacterial activities and potential β-lactamase inhibition in critical Gram-negative bacteria

AIMS

To evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of sodium ibuprofenate (NaI) and its hypertonic variant (NaIHS) against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GNB) and explore their potential to inhibit β-lactamase enzymes.

METHODS

Antibacterial activity was assessed using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and time-kill assays. Antibiofilm activity was evaluated by measuring bacterial viability and biomass reduction in preformed biofilms. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe membrane effects. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to analyze the binding affinity of ibuprofen to the active sites of β-lactamases (CTX-M-15, KPC-2, OXA-23).

RESULTS

NaI exhibited bactericidal activity at concentrations of 25-75 mm, with Acinetobacter baumannii being the most susceptible. NaCl (≥0.5 M) enhanced bactericidal efficacy and lowered MBCs. Time-kill assays indicated rapid bacterial eradication within 2 hours, with NaIHS achieving similar results at lower concentrations. SEM confirmed membrane disruption. Both formulations reduced bacterial viability in biofilms, with NaIHS showing greater efficiency. In silico studies suggest ibuprofen may inhibit β-lactamases, with enhanced interactions in saline environments.

CONCLUSION

Sodium ibuprofenate, particularly in its hypertonic form, demonstrates strong antibacterial, antibiofilm, and potential β-lactamase inhibitory activity, making it a promising candidate for treating MDR-GNB infections.

Targeting HSP90AA1 to overcome multiple drug resistance in breast cancer using magnetic nanoparticles loaded with salicylic acid

Multiple drug resistance (MDR) remains a major obstacle in effective breast cancer chemotherapy. This study explores the role of HSP90AA1 in driving MDR and evaluates the potential of magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4@SA) loaded with salicylic acid (SA) to counteract drug resistance. A comprehensive screening of 200 SA-related target genes identified nine core genes, including HSP90AA1. Pharmacophore analysis revealed that SA interacts with HSP90AA1, a key regulator of mitochondrial K+ channels. Fe3O4@SA nanoparticles demonstrated efficient cellular uptake and lysosomal escape, markedly improving the chemosensitivity of resistant breast cancer cells and promoting apoptosis. In vivo experiments further confirmed the anticancer efficacy of Fe3O4@SA, highlighting its potential as a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome MDR in breast cancer.

Evaluation of [18F]AlF NOTA-5G, an Aluminum [18F]fluoride Labeled Peptide Targeting the Cell Surface Receptor Integrin Alpha(v)beta(6) for PET Imaging

PURPOSE

Peptide-based probes targeting integrin αvβ6 have shown promise in clinical trials for cancer imaging based on the high over-expression of this epithelial-specific cell surface receptor in many cancerous tissues. Recently, the αvβ6-targeting gallium-68 labeled DOTA-5G peptide, [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G, demonstrated diagnostic value in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. To facilitate adoption at sites without access to gallium-68 and take advantage of the characteristics of fluorine-18 through convenient [18F]fluoride chelation chemistry, this study evaluated the fluorine-18 labeled analog, [18F]AlF NOTA-5G, in vitro and in vivo in a tumor mouse model, and compared it to [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G.

PROCEDURES

NOTA-5G was synthesized on solid phase and radiolabeled with aluminum [18F]fluoride to generate [18F]AlF NOTA-5G. Cell binding and internalization of [18F]AlF NOTA-5G were evaluated in paired DX3puroβ6 (αvβ6 +) and DX3puro (αvβ6 -), and pancreatic BxPC-3 (αvβ6 +) cells. Imaging (1-6 h) and biodistribution were performed in BxPC-3 tumor-bearing mice.

RESULTS

[18F]AlF NOTA-5G was obtained in > 93% radiochemical purity. Cell binding was αvβ6-targeted (1 h: 66% bound to DX3puroβ6, vs 2% to DX3puro), and ≥ 50% of bound activity was internalized; analogous to [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G, PET imaging showed clearly delineated tumors. Excretion remained primarily renal (1 to 4 h: 18.6 to 12.5% ID/g). Tumor uptake remained relatively steady (1 to 4 h: 2.3 ± 0.4 to 1.8 ± 0.6% ID/g - closely matching [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G with 2.6 ± 0.8 and 2.0 ± 0.6% ID/g at 1 and 2 h), resulting in tumor/pancreas, tumor/liver, and tumor/blood ratios of 18/1, 24/1, and 162/1, respectively (4 h); by comparison, for [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G the values were 21/1, 20/1, and 22/1 (2 h).

CONCLUSIONS

[18F]AlF NOTA-5G demonstrated selective αvβ6-targeting and tumor uptake similar to [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G. The tumor-to-background ratio resulted high-contrast PET images, with an extended imaging window compared to [68Ga]Ga DOTA-5G. The synthesis of [18F]AlF NOTA-5G is currently being optimized for clinical production.

Multieffect Specific Nanovesicles for Homing Resistant Tumors and Overcoming Osimertinib-Acquired Resistance in NSCLC

Acquired resistance to osimertinib (Osi) remains a major obstacle in the treatment of patients with EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). AXL elevation is a known key mechanism of Osi-resistance, and therapeutic strategies remain scarce. Emerging evidence reveals that an increased intracellular glutathione (GSH) level induces Osi resistance. In this study, a new mechanism is identified by which GSH regulates AXL expression via glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in Osi-resistant cells. A multifunctional covalent organic framework (COF) nanoplatform for GSH consumption, AXL inhibition, and co-delivery of the AXL inhibitor (Brigatinib) and Osi is creatively constructed to confirm whether Osi sensitivity improves by simultaneously targeting GSH-AXL resistance mechanisms. Furthermore, it is coated, for the first time, the COF carrier system with specific vesicles to precisely home it into resistant tumors, where CDH2 adhesion molecules play a crucial role. The engineered multifunctional antiresistance-specific nanovesicles effectively inhibited the GSH-AXL axis, induced apoptosis in Osi-resistant cells both in vitro and in vivo, and delayed the progression of Osi-resistant tumors. Overall, these findings provide a novel strategy to overcome the Osi-acquired resistance caused by high AXL levels in NSCLC.

Novel 3-Substituted-2H-Chromene Scaffold Based Fluorinated Hydrophobic Fragment as In-Vitro Antiproliferative Agents and Apoptosis Inducers Targeting Both VEGFR-2/BRAFV600E and h-DHFR With Molecular Docking Simulation

Recently, there has been an increasing interest in the use of protein kinase inhibitors as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cancer. In this study, a new series of 2H-chromene derivatives (2-5 and 6-8) and 3H-benzo[f]chromene carbohydrazide derivative (9) were synthesized. The structure of the designed derivatives was characterized by IR, 1H/13C NMR, and elemental analysis. Moreover, the cytotoxic activity of the newly synthesized chromenes was evaluated against breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) and a cervical cancer cell line (HeLa). The results of these evaluations demonstrated promising activity, ranging from good to moderate. Additionally, the lung fibroblast cell line (WI-38), as a normal cell line, was also utilized to assess the active derivatives' selectivity. Among the compounds tested, chromene derivative 3 demonstrated the highest potency, exhibiting IC50 values of 5.36 ± 0.50, 7.82 ± 0.60, and 9.28 ± 0.70 µM against the MDA-MB 231, MCF-7, and HeLa cell lines, respectively. The potential of chromone 3 as a multi-targeted anticancer agent was assessed by evaluating its activity against BRAF and VEGFR-2. Notably, the most promising chromene derivative 3 demonstrated significant VEGFR2 activity with an IC50 value of 0.224 µM compared to sorafenib's 0.045 µM, while exhibiting inhibitory activity against BRAF with an IC50 value of 1.695 µM relative to Vemurafenib's IC50 value of 0.468 µM. In addition, compound 3 inhibits the DHFR enzyme with an IC50 value of 2.217 ± 0.014 µM, compared to methotrexate (IC50 = 0.4315 ± 0.019 µM). These results revealed that the compound has multifaceted mechanisms of action that may augment its therapeutic effectiveness. In addition, compound 3 causes overexpression of caspase-3 and Bax by 6.13 and 8.85-fold, respectively. It also downregulates the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 level by 0.4775-fold compared to the untreated MDA-MB 231 cells. Flow cytometry analysis of MDA-MB-231 cells indicates that compound 3 induces cell cycle arrest in the G0-G1 phase, with an observed percentage of 73.15%. The in-silico toxicity prediction was evaluated and demonstrated a good toxicity profile. Finally, molecular docking studies supported these findings by confirming strong binding affinities of the derivatives to VEGFR-2, BRAF, and DHFR.

Decoding structural determinants of aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonism by monoterpenoids

Monocyclic monoterpenoids carvones have been recently identified as atypical negative allosteric modulators of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). In the current work, we performed AhR antagonist activity screening of 100 natural and synthetic monoterpenoids, and their analogues. Using SAR approach, structural determinants of AhR antagonist activity were assigned, including CO presence/position, planarity, and C3/C5-alkylation. Applying pyramidal selection criteria, including absence of residual agonist activity, no cytotoxicity, strong antagonist potency, and pan-antagonism against diverse AhR agonists, we distilled four lead AhR antagonists (carvacrol, o-cresol, 3-methyl-S-carvone, EN-2). Whereas 3-methyl-S-carvone and EN-2 were non-competitive AhR pan-antagonists, carvacrol and o-cresol were ligand-selective AhR antagonists acting by unclear mechanism. We characterized in detail the effects of lead compounds at cellular functions of AhR, including AhR nuclear translocation, AhR dimerization with ARNT, and the expression of AhR-regulated genes. As a proof of concept, effects of monoterpenoids in the murine macrophages were investigated.

Review of the recent advances of pyrazole derivatives as selective COX-2 inhibitors for treating inflammation

Pyrazole heterocycle is regarded as an extremely significant agent for the therapy of inflammation. Celecoxib, lonazolac, deracoxib, and phenylbutazone are examples of commercially approved pyrazole drugs with COX-2 inhibitory potential for curing inflammation. There have been recently many reviews for the biological significance of pyrazole derivatives. This review talks about pyrazole derivatives with anti-inflammatory activity and also sheds the light on the recent updates on pyrazole research with an emphasis on some synthetic pathways utilized to construct this privileged scaffold and structure activity relationship that accounts for the anti-inflammatory activity in an attempt to pave the opportunity for medicinal chemists to develop novel anti-inflammatory agents with better COX-2 selectivity.

Development and characterization of farnesol complexed in β- and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and their antibacterial activity

Farnesol (FAR) belongs to terpenes group and is a sesquiterpene alcohol and a hydrophobic compound, which can be extracted from natural sources or obtained by organic chemical or biological synthesis. Recent advances in the field of nanotechnology allow the drawbacks of low drug solubility, which can improve the drug therapeutic index. Therefore, this study aimed to prepare the FAR inclusion complexes with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) through freeze-drying method, proposing their physicochemical characterization, comparing their toxicity, and evaluating their in vitro antibacterial activity. Initially, physical mixture and freeze-dried inclusion complexes of FAR/β-CD and FAR/HP-β-CD were obtained in the molar ratio (1:1). The samples were characterized by DSC, TG/DTG, FTIR, PXRD, SEM, pHPZC, and the complexation efficiency were performed by HPLC. In vivo toxicity assay was performed using Tenebrio molitor larvae to determine the LD50 and toxic dose of the samples. Also, it was proposed that the evaluation of the fluorescence suppression of Bovine Serum Albumin and the antibacterial activity. The complexation of FAR was evidenced with β-CD and HP-β-CD by the characterization techniques analyzed. The complexation efficiency of FAR/β-CD and FAR/HP-β-CD were 73,53 % and 74.12 %, respectively. The inclusion complexes demonstrated a reduction in toxicity, as evidenced by lower toxic and LD50 doses compared to the free FAR. The inclusion complexes induced conformational changes in BSA, suggesting that they reached the subdomains containing tryptophan residues. In terms of antibacterial activity, FAR/β-CD and FAR/HP-β-CD did not exhibit significant MIC results compared to free FAR, except for FAR/HP-β-CD against S. aureus ATCC 25923.

Predicting Distribution Coefficients (LogD) of Cyclic Peptides Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations

PURPOSE

The distribution coefficient (LogD) is a critical property for oral peptide drug design. In this study, we focused on cyclic peptides (octreotide and its analogs) and aimed to determine their LogD values at four pHs using both the simulation and experimental approaches.

METHODS

For the experimental approach, the shake-flask method with LCMS quantification was employed to determine LogD values. For the simulation approach, the partition coefficient (LogP) was obtained from the solvation free energy calculations using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The LogD values were then calculated from the obtained LogP values considering the predicted pKa and ionization states of each peptide residue. More peptide properties such as polar surface area (PSA), number of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, solvent accessible surface area (SASA), and radius of gyration (Rg) were also calculated with the aid of MD simulation.

RESULTS

For a total of 28 LogD values across four pHs, the predicted values from the simulation under the OPLS-AA forcefield agreed with the experimental values, with an average deviation of 1.39 ± 0.86 log units, displaying better predictions compared to the data generated under the CHARMM forcefield or using commercial software. In addition, the analysis of PSA, SASA, and Rg data suggested the peptides exhibited some conformational flexibility in both aqueous and organic phases.

CONCLUSIONS

The method developed in this study can predict the LogD values at a wide pH range covering multiple formulation/physiological conditions and therefore can provide insights into designing oral peptide drugs, especially for early-stage projects.

Exploring novel dilazep derivatives as hENT1 inhibitors and potentially covalent molecular tools

The human equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (SLC29A1, hENT1) is a solute carrier that modulates the passive transport of nucleosides and nucleobases, such as adenosine. This nucleoside regulates various physiological processes, such as vasodilation and -constriction, neurotransmission and immune defense. Marketed drugs such as dilazep and dipyridamole have proven useful in cardiovascular afflictions, but the application of hENT1 inhibitors can be beneficial in a number of other diseases. In this study, 39 derivatives of dilazep's close analogue ST7092 were designed, synthesized and subsequently assessed using [3H]NBTI displacement assays and molecular docking. Different substitution patterns of the trimethoxy benzoates of ST7092 reduced interactions within the binding pocket, resulting in diminished hENT1 affinity. Conversely, [3H]NBTI displacement by potentially covalent compounds 14b, 14c, and 14d resulted in high affinities (Ki values between 1.1 and 17.5 nM) for the transporter, primarily by the ability of accommodating the inhibitors in various ways in the binding pocket. However, any indication of covalent binding with amino acid residue C439 remained absent, conceivably as a result of decreased nucleophilic residue reactivity. In conclusion, this research introduces novel dilazep derivatives that are active as hENT1 inhibitors, along with the first high affinity dilazep derivatives equipped with an electrophilic warhead. These findings will aid the rational and structure-based development of novel hENT1 inhibitors and pharmacological tools to study hENT1's function, binding mechanisms, and its relevance in (patho)physiological conditions.

Advances and future directions in radiopharmaceutical delivery for cancer treatment

INTRODUCTION

Targeted radiopharmaceutical therapies (RPTs) have emerged as a promising approach for the precise treatment of various cancers. Delivering ionizing radiation directly to cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue, radiopharmaceuticals offer enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity compared to conventional external beam radiation therapy (i.e. photons and electrons).

AREAS COVERED

In the current era of personalized cancer care, the appropriate choice of RPTs for a clinical condition and the specific patient's care needs to be better understood. Several available RPT agents with their respective clinical applicability along with rapidly ongoing research in this field have now given RPTs the ability to lend themselves to a personalized medicine focus. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in RPT, including nuclide selection and development, molecular targeting strategies, radiopharmaceutical development, and clinical applications.

EXPERT OPINION

We discuss the underlying principles, challenges, and opportunities for future development. Furthermore, we explore emerging technologies and future directions in the field, highlighting the potential impact on personalized cancer care.

Imaging-based profiling for elucidation of antibacterial mechanisms of action

In this review, we aim to summarize experimental data and approaches to identifying cellular targets or mechanisms of action of antibacterials based on imaging techniques. Imaging-based profiling methods, such as bacterial cytological profiling, dynamic bacterial morphology imaging, and others, have become a useful research tool for mechanistic studies of new antibiotics as well as combinations with conventional ones and other therapeutic options. The main methodological and experimental details and obtained results are summarized and discussed. The review covers the literature up to February 2024.

Restoring susceptibility to β-lactam antibiotics in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Infections by Staphylococcus aureus have been treated historically with β-lactam antibiotics. However, these antibiotics have become obsolete in methicillin-resistant S. aureus by acquisition of the bla and mec operons. The presence of the β-lactam antibiotic is detected by the sensor domains of BlaR and/or MecR, and the information is transmitted to the cytoplasm, resulting in derepression of the antibiotic-resistance genes. We hypothesized that inhibition of the sensor domain would shut down this response system, and β-lactam susceptibility would be restored. An in silico search of 11 million compounds led to a benzimidazole-based hit and, ultimately, to the boronate 4. The X-ray structure of 4 is covalently engaged with the active-site serine of BlaR. Compound 4 potentiates by 16- to 4,096-fold the activities of oxacillin and of meropenem against methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains. The combination of 4 with oxacillin or meropenem shows efficacy in infected mice, validating the strategy.

Substance use disorders among African-American men in the rural south: A scoping review

African American (AA) men in the rural South may be at high risk for experiencing adverse health outcomes from substance use (SU). We conducted a scoping review to explore the research on SU among rural AA men in the rural South of the United States (US). Ten articles addressed the following thematic areas pertaining to SU: factors associated with SU (n = 6), associations between substance use and health outcomes (n = 2), and the influence of impulsivity on SU (n = 2). Additional research on SU among AA men in the rural South is needed, particularly pertaining to treatment-related considerations.

New 1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid- and 3,5-bis(benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine-appended d10-configuration-based coordination polymers as recoverable turn-off luminescent sensors for tetracycline

Coordination polymers (CPs) possessing Zn2+ and Cd2+ display interesting photoluminescent properties, thereby finding utility as luminescent sensors to detect traces of molecular substances. Herein, new Cd(II) and Zn(II)-based coordination polymers (CPs) with formulae [Cd3(L)3(3,5-bipy)6(H2O)3·H2L·5H2O] (1) and [Zn(HL)2(3,5-bipy)2] (2) were synthesized utilizing 1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (H2L) as the main ligand and 3,5-bis(benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine (3,5-bipy) as the co-ligand and characterized. These CPs exhibited luminescent properties. Upon exciting their aqueous suspensions at 360 nm, both 1 and 2 exhibited broad emissions at 461 nm and 457 nm, respectively, with 1 displaying more intense emission than 2. Furthermore, employing these CPs as luminescent sensors for sensing antibiotics in aqueous media suggest that both 1 and 2 display selective and sensitive sensing towards tetracycline (TCY). 1 and 2 demonstrated limit of detection (LOD) values of 6.21 × 10-6 M and 1.07 × 10-5 M, respectively, accompanied with Stern-Volmer constants (Ksv) of 2.08 × 104 M-1 and 1.24 × 104 M-1. Additionally, recoveries in the luminescent responses of both 1 and 2 were successfully achieved through titration-back experiments using salicylic acid (SA). The integrated experimental and computational techniques suggest that the decline in emission intensity of CPs in the presence of antibiotics is due to energy/charge transfer and interaction with TCY, inducing minor alterations in the framework. These alterations form a non-fluorescent ground state complex (GSC) that alters the electron communication and decreases the photoluminescent intensity. Also, restoration in the emissive responses of TCY@CP arises due to the SA-assisted release of TCY from TCY@CP, which leads to restoration of the emissive responses.

Organelle-targeted BODIPY-conjugated platinum(IV) anticancer prodrugs for overcoming drug resistance

Platinum-based chemotherapy, despite being a cornerstone of cancer treatment, faces significant challenges due to acquired drug resistance. To address this issue, we have designed three organelle-targeting platinum(IV) prodrugs conjugated with BODIPY fluorophores, enabling spatiotemporal control through green light irradiation. These BODIPY-Pt(IV) conjugates exhibit excellent stability in PBS buffer, demonstrating resilience under physiological conditions. Upon light exposure, these prodrugs undergo rapid activation, releasing axial ligands and generating cytotoxic platinum(II) species at specific cellular locations. In vitro studies across various cancer cell lines, including those resistant to conventional platinum therapies, show high efficacy of these prodrugs, attributed to their organelle-targeted delivery and fast photoactivation. Furthermore, the intrinsic fluorescence of these Pt(IV) prodrugs enables real-time tracking of their cellular distribution, providing valuable insights into their mechanism of action. Overall, our research presents a novel strategy that combines photoactivation of Pt(IV) prodrugs with organelle-specific targeting to overcome platinum drug resistance, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of platinum-based prodrugs and offering a promising avenue for precision cancer therapy.

Effect of Defined Block Sequence Terpolymers on Antifungal Activity and Biocompatibility

Invasive fungal infections cause over 3.7 million deaths worldwide annually, underscoring the critical need for new antifungal agents. Developing selective antifungal agents is challenging due to the shared eukaryotic nature of both fungal and mammalian cells. Toward addressing this, synthetic polymers designed to mimic host defense peptides are promising new candidates for combating fungal infections. This study investigates well-defined multiblock terpolymers with specific arrangements of cationic, hydrophobic, and hydrophilic groups, as potential antifungal agents. The block sequence in these copolymers significantly impacts their minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) against Candida albicans and biocompatibility. Furthermore, compared to their statistical counterparts, these block polymers exhibit lower MIC values in certain instances. Notably, triblock terpolymers containing a central hydrophobic block present an enhanced antifungal efficacy and biocompatibility. These findings highlight the potential of block sequence-controlled polymers as a versatile platform for developing customized and targeted antifungal therapies.

Promising natural products targeting protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 for cancer therapy

The development of Src homology-2 domain containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-2 (SHP2) inhibitors is a hot spot in the research and development of antitumor drugs, which may induce immunomodulatory effects in the tumor microenvironment and participate in anti-tumor immune responses. To date, several SHP2 inhibitors have made remarkable progress and entered clinical trials for the treatment of patients with advanced solid tumors. Multiple compounds derived from natural products have been proved to influence tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and other cellular functions, modulate cell cycle and immune cell activation by regulating the function of SHP2 and its mutants. However, there is a paucity of information about their diversity, biochemistry, and therapeutic potential of targeting SHP2 in tumors. This review will provide the structure, classification, inhibitory activities, experimental models, and antitumor effects of the natural products. Notably, this review summarizes recent advance in the efficacy and pharmacological mechanism of natural products targeting SHP2 in inhibiting the various signaling pathways that regulate different cancers and thus pave the way for further development of anticancer drugs targeting SHP2.

Identification and Exploration of Immunity-Related Genes and Natural Products for Alzheimer's Disease Based on Bioinformatics, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics

BACKGROUND

Recent research highlights the immune system's role in AD pathogenesis and promising prospects of natural compounds in treatment. This study explores immunity-related biomarkers and potential natural products using bioinformatics, machine learning, molecular docking, and kinetic simulation.

METHODS

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in AD were analyzed using GSE5281 and GSE132903 datasets. Important AD module genes were identified using a weighted co-expression algorithm (WGCNA), and immune-related genes (IRGs) were obtained from the ImmPortPortal database. Intersecting these genes yielded important IRGs. Then, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and other methods screened common immune-related AD markers. Biological pathways were explored through Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). The accuracy of these markers was assessed by subject operator signature (ROC) curves and validated in the GSE122063 dataset. The datasets was then subjected to immunoinfiltration analysis. Multiple compound databases were used to analyze core Chinese medicines and components. Molecular docking and kinetic simulation verification were used for further verification.

RESULTS

A total of 1360 differential genes and 5 biomarkers (PGF, GFAP, GPI, SST, NFKBIA) were identified, showing excellent diagnostic efficiency. GSEA revealed markers associated with Oxidative phosphorylation, Nicotine addiction, and Hippo signaling pathway. Immune infiltration analysis showed dysregulation in multiple immune cell types in AD brains, with significant interactions between markers and 5 immune cell types. A total of 27 possible herbs and 7 core compounds were eventually identified. The binding environment of GPI-luteolin and GPI-stigasterol was relatively stable and showed good affinity.

CONCLUSIONS

PGF, GFAP, SST, GPI, and NFKBIA were identified for early AD diagnosis, associated with immune cells and pathways in AD brains. 7 promising natural compounds, including luteolin and stigmasterol, were screened for targeting these biomarkers.

Sigma-1 Receptor Specific Biological Functions, Protective Role, and Therapeutic Potential in Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and there is an urgent need for efficient and cost-effective treatments to decrease the risk of CVD. The sigma-1 receptor (S1R) plays a role in the development of cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, ventricular remodeling, and various other cardiac diseases. Preclinical studies have shown that S1R activation has considerable beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, and this knowledge might contribute to informing clinical trials associated with the prevention and treatment of CVDs. Therefore, the objective of this review was to investigate the mechanisms of S1R in CVD and how modulation of pathways contributes to cardiovascular protection to facilitate the development of new therapeutic agents targeting the cardiovascular system.

High-throughput hit identification with acoustic ejection mass spectrometry

This mini-review provides an overview of recent developments in AEMS supporting hit identification in drug discovery, emphasizing its potential to enhance the quality and efficiency of label-free HTS. Future advancements that may further expand the role of AEMS in the drug discovery process will also be discussed.

Benzofuran-Chalcone Derivatives as VEGFR-2 Inhibitors: Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation

The discovery and development of efficient VEGFR-2 inhibitors has become a research hotspot in cancer treatment. In this work, a series of new benzofuran-based chalcone derivatives have been prepared, and in vitro anticancer activities have been evaluated. The results revealed that derivatives showed selective cytotoxic activity against HCC1806, Hela, and A549 cell lines, especially 5c exhibited excellent inhibitory effect on VEFGR-2 (IC50 = 1.07 nM). The molecular docking study indicated that 5c had an obvious binding site with the target VEGFR-2 (PDB ID: 3V6B). Therefore, the benzofuran-based chalcone derivatives could be considered as potent VEGFR-2 inhibitors for further study.

Towards new bioactive fluorine-containing 1,3,4-oxadiazole-amide derivatives: synthesis, antibacterial activity, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation study

Through the approach of molecular hybridization, this study rationally designed and synthesized new trifluoromethyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole amide derivatives, denoted as 1a-1n. The findings reveal that these novel molecules exhibit potent inhibitory effects against various bacterial strains. Thereinto, compounds 1c, 1d, 1i, 1j and 1n, demonstrate relatively superior antimicrobial performance against B. cereus FM314, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.03907 μg/mL. Molecular docking analysis suggests the potential importance of the Ser57 and Thr125 amino acid residues (PDB ID: 4EI9) in contributing to the inhibitory activity against B. cereus. The consistency of these results was further corroborated through subsequent molecular dynamics simulations and MMPBSA validations. The insights gained from this study serve to facilitate the rational design and efficient development of novel eco-friendly antimicrobial inhibitors based on the trifluoromethyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole amide scaffold.

In Silico Docking of Medicinal Herbs Against P. gingivalis for Chronic Periodontitis Intervention

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of medicinal herbs for chronic periodontitis by examining the molecular interactions between specific herbal compounds and the heme-binding protein of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key pathogen involved in the disease.

METHODS

The crystal structure of heme-binding protein was obtained from the Protein Data Bank. Herbal compounds were identified through an extensive literature review. Molecular docking simulations were performed to predict binding affinities, followed by Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) parameter prediction. Drug-likeness was assessed based on Lipinski's Rule of Five, and pharmacophore modeling was conducted to identify key molecular interactions.

RESULTS

The molecular docking simulations revealed that chelidonine, rotenone, and myricetin exhibited significant binding affinities to the heme-binding protein, with docking scores of -6.5 kcal/mol, -6.4 kcal/mol, and -6.1 kcal/mol, respectively. These compounds formed stable interactions with key amino acid residues within the binding pocket. ADME analysis indicated that all 3 compounds had favourable pharmacokinetic properties, with no violations of Lipinski's rules and minimal predicted toxicity. Pharmacophore modeling further elucidated the interaction profiles, highlighting specific hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions critical for binding efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Chelidonine, rotenone, and myricetin emerged as promising therapeutic candidates for chronic periodontitis due to their strong binding affinities, favorable ADME profiles, and lack of significant toxicity. The detailed pharmacophore modeling provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underpinning their inhibitory effects on the heme-binding protein of P. gingivalis. These findings suggest that these compounds have the potential for further development as effective treatments for chronic periodontitis. Future research should focus on in vitro and in vivo validation of these findings to confirm the efficacy and safety of these compounds in biological systems.

Extracellular Matrix-Inspired Antibacterial Fibrous Hydrogels Containing Polyhexamethylene Biguanide and Gd3

Traditional bulk hydrogels containing antibiotics or metal ions often fall short in effectively treating wound infections due to mechanical limitations, bacterial resistance, and potential cytotoxicity. To address these challenges, an extracellular matrix (ECM)-inspired antibacterial fibrous hydrogel featuring an anisotropic topological structure is developed that closely mimics the natural ECM environment. A novel antibacterial agent, PHMB-VAN-Gd (PVG), is synthesized by reacting polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) with O-Vanillin (VAN) to form the Schiff base ligand PHMB-VAN (PV), followed by coordination with gadolinium ions (Gd3⁺). Employing silk fibroin (SF) as the matrix, the PVG complex is incorporated into fibrous hydrogels through electrospinning, generating structures that replicate the fibrous architecture of the ECM. The resulting SF-PVG fibrous hydrogels exhibited robust antibacterial activity, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth and biofilm formation. Furthermore, the aligned fiber orientation and substantial mechanical strength of these hydrogels facilitated cellular functions, promoting cell attachment and proliferation. This study underscores the significant potential of SF-PVG hydrogels for wound infection treatment.

σ-Bond insertion reactions of two strained diradicaloids

The development of new synthetic methodologies is instrumental for enabling the discovery of new medicines. The methods that provide efficient access to structural alternatives for aromatic compounds (that is, saturated arene bioisosteres) have become highly coveted1-4. The incorporation of these bioisosteres typically leads to favourable drug-like properties and represents an emerging field of research. Here we report a new synthetic method that furnishes a coveted motif, the bicyclo[2.1.1]hexane scaffold5,6, using mild reaction conditions and an operationally simple protocol. The methodology proceeds through the uncommon coupling of two strained fragments: transiently generated cyclic allenes and bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes, which possess considerable strain energies of about 30 kcal mol-1 (ref. 7) and about 60 kcal mol-1 (ref. 6), respectively. The reaction is thought to proceed by a σ-bond insertion through a diradical pathway. However, rather than requiring an external stimulus to generate radical species, reactivity is thought to arise as a result of innate diradical character present in each reactant. This diradicaloid character8, an underused parameter in reaction design, arises from the severe geometric distortions of each reactant. Our studies provide a means to access functionalized bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes of value for drug discovery, underscore how geometric distortion of reactants can be used to enable uncommon modes of reactivity and should encourage the further exploration and strategic use of diradicaloids in chemical synthesis.

De novo evolution of antibiotic resistance to Oct-TriA1

The rise of antimicrobial resistance as a global health concern has led to a strong interest in compounds able to inhibit the growth of bacteria without detectable levels of resistance evolution. A number of these compounds have been reported in recent years, including the tridecaptins, a small family of lipopeptides typified by the synthetic analogue octyl-tridecaptin A1. Hypothesizing that prior reports of negligible resistance evolution have been due in part to limitations in the laboratory evolution systems used, we have attempted to select for resistant mutants using a soft agar gradient evolution (SAGE) system developed by our lab. Following optimization of the media conditions by incorporation of the anti-synaeresis agent xanthan gum into the agar matrix, we successfully evolved high-level resistance to both octyl-tridecaptin A1 as well as the challenging lipopeptide antibiotic polymyxin B. Decreased tridecaptin susceptibility was linked to mutations in outer membrane proteins ompC, lptD and mlaA, with the effect of these genes confirmed through a mix of allelic replacement and knockout studies. Overall, this work demonstrates the robust evolutionary potential of bacteria, even in the face of challenging antimicrobial agents.

7-(4-Chlorophenyl)-1-hydroxy-5-methylpyrido[3,4-d]pyridazin-4(3H)-one: synthesis, solvatomorphism, in vitro anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activity studies and in silico analysis

The newly obtained compound 7-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-hydroxy-5-methylpyrido[3,4-d]pyridazin-4(3H)-one (CPM) was crystallized as two new variable solvates, namely, the dimethyl sulfoxide monosolvate, C14H10ClN3O2·C2H6SO (I), and the sesquisolvate, C14H10ClN3O2·1.5C2H6SO (II), and their structures were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. In previous work, 1-hydroxy-5-methyl-7-phenylpyrido[3,4-d]pyridazin-4(3H)-one (PM) was found to display anticancer activity. In the next step of our studies, we synthesized a new derivative of PM, introducing a Cl atom into the PM structure, obtaining CPM, which showed not only anticancer but also anti-inflammatory activity. CPM and the new semi-products of each step of the synthesis were examined by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and FT-IR spectroscopic analyses, and mass spectrometry. CPM forms (I) and (II) crystallize in the triclinic P1 and monoclinic C2/c space groups, respectively, and differ in the stoichiometry of the CPM and DMSO molecules in the crystal lattice, being 1:1 and 1:1.5 for (I) and (II), respectively. A powder X-ray diffraction analysis was performed only for solvate (I) due to the lack of stability of solvate (II). The potential cytotoxicity of CPM was evaluated against the normal cell lines L929 and RPTEC, as well as the cancer cell lines A172, AGS, CACO-2 and HepG2. The anti-inflammatory activity of CPM was also evaluated using colorimetric assay for the inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2. The same biological tests were carried out for PM to compare the activities of both compounds. The biological studies revealed that CPM does not exhibit more activity than PM. Moreover, in silico analysis of the bioavailability and molecular docking were performed.

Nano-Encapsulated Coumarin Derivative, CS-QM2 Inhibits Neoplasm Growth: Experimented in Zebrafish Model

Cancer remains a significant global health challenge with limited therapeutic success, prompting the need for innovative treatment strategies. This study investigates the anticancer potential of nano-encapsulated metal derivatives (CS-QM2) using a zebrafish model with chemically induced cellular neoplasia. Characterization of CS-QM2 nanoparticles revealed successful synthesis with a high entrapment efficiency and enhanced drug release under acidic conditions. Zebrafish embryos exposed to 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) exhibited significant malformations, macrophage accumulation, and abnormal tissue growth, which were markedly reduced by CS-QM2 treatment. CS-QM2 significantly increases intracellular ROS, resulting in higher LPO and induces apoptosis in neoplasm tissues. Furthermore, CS-QM2 treatment alters the tumor microenvironment, reducing macrophage accumulation by decreasing neutral lipid droplets, disrupting TAM metabolic support and limiting their protumorigenic activities. Biochemical assays demonstrated restored activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and GSH. Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of apoptosis and tumor suppressor genes (cas3, p53) and downregulation of inflammatory genes (cox-2, nf-kb). Histological assessment and SEM analysis confirmed reduced neoplasm occurrence and tissue abnormalities. These findings suggest that CS-QM2 nanoparticles effectively inhibit neoplasm growth and modulate the tumor microenvironment through oxidative stress induction and gene expression regulation.

A review of conjugation technologies for antibody drug conjugates

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have gained significant attention in biotherapeutics after several years of steady development. Among the multiple factors influencing ADC design, the conjugation method is one of the most critical parameters. This review classifies conjugation strategies into three categories: non-specific, site-specific but non-selective, and fully site-specific and selective methods. The characteristics; advantages and disadvantages; chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) potential; and clinical status of each conjugation strategy are discussed in detail. The site-specific and selective methods will yield more homogeneous ADC, which may influence the stability and pharmacokinetics (PK) profile of the ADC and then influence the final therapeutic outcome. Additionally, the review also explores challenges and future directions for developing novel conjugation strategies. This review presents the most prevalent conjugation techniques, providing a valuable resource for researchers in selecting conjugation technologies and advancing ADC development.