Impact of antiparasitic used in livestock: effects of ivermectin spiked sediment in Prochilodus lineatus, an inland fishery species of South America

Ivermectin (IVM) is a widely used antiparasitic. Concerns have been raised about its environmental effects in the wetlands of Río de la Plata basin where cattle have been treated with IVM for years. This study investigated the sublethal effects of environmentally relevant IVM concentrations in sediments on the Neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus. Juvenile P. lineatus were exposed to IVM-spiked sediments (2 and 20 µg/Kg) for 14 days, alongside a control sediment treatment without IVM. Biochemical and oxidative stress responses were assessed in brain, gills, and liver tissues, including lipid damage, glutathione levels, enzyme activities, and antioxidant competence. Muscle and brain acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE) and stable isotopes of 13C and 15N in muscle were also measured. The lowest IVM treatment resulted in an increase in brain lipid peroxidation, as measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs), decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) in gills and liver, increased catalase activity (CAT) in the liver, and decreased antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP) in gills and liver. The highest IVM treatment significantly reduced GSH in the liver. Muscle (AChE) was decreased in both treatments. Multivariate analysis showed significant overall effects in the liver tissue, followed by gills and brain. These findings demonstrate the sublethal effects of IVM in P. lineatus, emphasizing the importance of considering sediment contamination and trophic habits in realistic exposure scenarios.

Two novel glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes in the toxic marine dinoflagellate Alexandrium pacificum and their transcriptional responses to environmental contaminants

The present study identified two novel glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes from the toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium pacificum and examined their molecular characteristics and transcriptional responses to algicides and environmental contaminants. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that both ApGSTs are cytosolic, belonging to the chi-like class (ApGST1) and an undefined class (ApGST2). The overall expression of ApGSTs showed similar patterns depending on the exposed contaminants, while they were differently regulated by polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB). Copper treatments (CuCl2 and CuSO4) did not significantly induce the expression of ApGSTs. The highest up-regulations of ApGST1 and ApGST2 were under 6-h treatments of 0.10 and 0.50 mg L-1 NaOCl. Interestingly, only ApGST1 increased significantly after 0.10, 0.50, and 1.00 mg L-1 of PCB exposure (6 h). Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased considerably under NaOCl; however, it was not significantly higher in the PCB-treated cells. GST activity was increased by NaOCl and PCB treatments, but only PCB caused apoptosis. These results suggest that GSTs are involved in the first line of phase II detoxification, protecting dinoflagellate cells against oxidative damage.

Investigation of Potential Effects of Some Indole Compounds on the Glutathione S-Transferase Enzyme

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) belong to the superfamily of multifunctional detoxification isoenzymes with an important role in cellular signaling. They can prevent reactive electrophilic compounds from harming the body by covalently binding identical type of moleculs to each other. GSTs can be used alone or in combination for cancer detection or diagnosis, in addition to therapeutic interventions. In recent years, indoles have become important due to their structural properties and biological activities such as antitubercular, antiulcer, anti-oxidant, and antidiabetic, as well as for the development of new anticancer agents. The current research investigated effects of some indoles with 3-carboxaldehyde structure on the GST enzyme activity. Impacts of various concentrations of indoles on the in vitro GST activity were examined. While IC50 values for the compounds ranged from 0.042 to 1.570 mM, Ki values changed between 0.018 ± 0.01 and 1.110 ± 0.15 mM. 6-Methylindole-3-carboxaldehyde (1b) exhibited the highest inhibitory effect among the indoles examined. Indole derivatives used in the study can be evaluated in further pharmacological studies due to their effects on GST activity.

Integrating pollutant levels and biochemical biomarkers in oysters (Crassostrea rhizophorae and Crassostrea gasar) indicates anthropic impacts on marine environments along the coast of Santa Catarina state, Brazil

This study aimed to carry out a general diagnosis of the contamination of the coastal marine environment of the Santa Catarina state (SC, Brazil) by different classes of environmental pollutants, as well as to evaluate possible adverse effects of the contaminants on biochemical biomarkers of oysters, Crassostrea gasar and Crassostrea rhizophorae. 107 chemicals were evaluated in water, sediment and oyster samples from nine sites along the coastline of SC. We also examined various biochemical biomarkers in the oysters' gills and digestive glands to assess potential effects of contaminants. In general, the northern and central regions of the littoral of SC presented higher occurrences and magnitudes of contaminants than the southern region, which is probably related to higher urbanization of center and northern areas of the littoral. The biomarker analysis in the oysters reflected these contamination patterns, with more significant alterations observed in regions with higher levels of pollutants. Our results may serve as a first baseline for future and more extensive monitoring actions and follow-up of the degree of contamination in the state, allowing for inspection actions and management of areas most affected by marine pollutants.

Protective effect of bromelain on some metabolic enzyme activities in tyloxapol-induced hyperlipidemic rats

Elevation of one or more plasma lipids, such as phospholipids, cholesterol esters, cholesterol, and triglycerides, is known as hyperlipidemia. In humans and experimental animals, bromelain, the primary active ingredient isolated from pineapple stems, has several positive effects, including anti-tumor growth, anticoagulation, and anti-inflammation. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the possible protective impact of bromelain on some metabolic enzymes (paraoxonase-1, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione reductase, sorbitol dehydrogenase [SDH], aldose reductase [AR], butyrylcholinesterase [BChE], and acetylcholinesterase [AChE]), activity in the heart, kidney, and liver of rats with tyloxapol-induced hyperlipidemia. Rats were divided into three groups: control group, HL-control group (tyloxapol 400 mg/kg, i.p. administered group), and HL+bromelain (group receiving bromelain 250 mg/kg/o.d. prior to administration of tyloxapol 400 mg/kg, i.p.). BChE, SDH, and AR enzyme activities were significantly increased in all tissues in HL-control compared to the control, whereas the activity of other studied enzymes was significantly decreased. Bromelain had a regulatory effect on all tissues and enzyme activities. In conclusion, these results prove that bromelain is a new mediator that decreases hyperlipidemia.

Development of a new affinity chromatography method for purification of horseradish peroxidase enzyme

In this study, benzohydroxamic acid molecules were synthesized from methyl 4-amino-2-methoxy, methyl 4-amino-3-nitro, methyl 4-amino-3-methyl, and methyl 4-amino-3-chloro benzoate molecules, and the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme was purified in one step using the affinity chromatography technique for the first time. The IC50 and Ki values for the 4-amino 3-methyl benzohydroxamic acid molecule were 0.136 and 0.132 ± 0.054 μM, respectively, while the IC50 and Ki values for the 4-amino-3-nitro benzohydroxamic acid molecule were 56.00 and 51.90 ± 9.90 μM, respectively. It was found that the IC50 and Ki values for the 4-amino-3-chloro benzohydroxamic acid molecule were 218.33 and 175.67 ± 43.78 μM, respectively, whereas the IC50 and Ki values for the 4-amino-2-methoxy benzohydroxamic acid molecule were 306.00 and 218.00 ± 68.80 μM, respectively. The HRP enzyme was synthesized from 4-amino-2-methoxy hydroxamic acid column with a 35.97% yield 601.13 times, 4-amino-3-nitro hydroxamic acid column, with a 14.00% yield 404.11 times, 4-amino-3-methyl hydroxamic acid column with an 8.70% yield 394.88 times, and 4-amino-3-chloro hydroxamic acid column with a 4.48% yield 284.85 times. Thus, the HRP enzyme was purified in a single step with hydroxamic acids, and its molecular weight was found to be 44 kDa. The optimum pH was 8.0, the optimum temperature was 15°C, and the optimum ionic strength was 0.4 M for the purified HRP enzyme.

Organohalogen chalcones: design, synthesis, ADMET prediction, molecular dynamics study and inhibition effect on acetylcholinesterase and carbonic anhydrase

In an effort to discover potential acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitors, a novel series of organohalogen chalcone derivatives (12-20, 23-30) was synthesized, and their chemical structures were characterized by spectral analysis. They showed a highly potent inhibition effect on AChE and hCAs (Ki values range from 5.07 ± 0.062 to 65.53 ± 4.36 nM for AChE, 13.54 ± 2.55 to 94.11 ± 10.39 nM for hCA I, and 5.21 ± 0.54 to 57.44 ± 3.12 nM for hCA II). In addition, the chalcone derivatives with the highest inhibitor score docked into the active site of the indicated metabolic enzyme receptors, and their absorption, metabolism, and toxic properties were evaluated according to ADMET's estimation.Compounds 16 and 19 exhibited the highest inhibition score, emerged as lead compounds, and inspired the development of more potent compounds.

2,4-D Herbicide-Induced Hepatotoxicity: Unveiling Disrupted Liver Functions and Associated Biomarkers

2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is a widely used herbicide worldwide and is frequently found in water samples. This knowledge has prompted studies on its effects on non-target organisms, revealing significant alterations to liver structure and function. In this review, we evaluated the literature on the hepatotoxicity of 2,4-D, focusing on morphological damages, toxicity biomarkers and affected liver functions. Searches were conducted on PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus and 83 articles were selected after curation. Among these studies, 72% used in vivo models and 30% used in vitro models. Additionally, 48% used the active ingredient, and 35% used commercial formulations in exposure experiments. The most affected biomarkers were related to a decrease in antioxidant capacity through alterations in the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase and the levels of malondialdehyde. Changes in energy metabolism, lipids, liver function, and xenobiotic metabolism were also identified. Furthermore, studies about the effects of 2,4-D in mixtures with other pesticides were found, as well as hepatoprotection trials. The reviewed data indicate the essential role of reduction in antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress in 2,4-D-induced hepatotoxicity. However, the mechanism of action of the herbicide is still not fully understood and further research in this area is necessary.

Melatonin and Related Compounds as Antioxidants

Oxidative stress has been reported to be involved in the onset and development of several diseases, including neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders, some types of cancer, and diabetes. Therefore, finding strategies to detoxify free radicals is an active area of research. One of these strategies is the use of natural or synthetic antioxidants. In this context, melatonin (MLT) has been proven to possess most of the required characteristics of an efficient antioxidant. In addition, its protection against oxidative stress continues after being metabolized, since its metabolites also exhibit antioxidant capacity. Based on the appealing properties of MLT and its metabolites, various synthetic analogues have been developed to obtain compounds with higher activity and lower side effects. This review addresses recent studies with MLT and related compounds as potential antioxidants.

Targeting Ferroptosis: A Novel Strategy for the Treatment of Atherosclerosis

Since ferroptosis was reported in 2012, its application prospects in various diseases have been widely considered, initially as a treatment direction for tumors. Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis is closely related to the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. The primary mechanism is to affect the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis through intracellular iron homeostasis, ROS and lipid peroxide production and metabolism, and a variety of intracellular signaling pathways. Inhibition of ferroptosis is effective in inhibiting the development of atherosclerosis, and it can bring a new direction for treating atherosclerosis. In this review, we discuss the mechanism of ferroptosis and focus on the relationship between ferroptosis and atherosclerosis, summarize the different types of ferroptosis inhibitors that have been widely studied, and discuss some issues worthy of attention in the treatment of atherosclerosis by targeting ferroptosis.

Efficiency and ecological safety of herbicide haloxyfop-R-methyl on removal of coastal invasive plant Spartina alterniflora

Spartina alterniflora is a global invasive plant and has caused considerable damage to coastal wetland ecosystem. This study evaluated the efficiency and ecological safety of herbicide haloxyfop-R-methyl (HPME) in removing S alterniflora in Laizhou Bay. The results showed that the density of regenerated S. alterniflora after 10 months of application of 0.01, 0.02 and 0.03 g/m2 HPME decreased by 86.67 %, 99.16 % and 99.31 %, respectively. Moreover, seed abortion rates were 62.25 %, 92.24 % and 94.82 %, and weight of roots in HPME groups were 56.63 %, 59.99 %, and 40.10 % of those in the control group. After 4 days of application, HPME could not be detected in S. alterniflora and sediments. In addition, HPME did not change sediment physicochemical properties, macrozoobenthos community and microbial community structure during 16 days, but increased the density of native macrozoobenthos after 1 year. Therefore, HPME might be an effective and ecologically safe chemical for the eradication of S. alterniflora.

Benzimidazolium Salts Bearing Nitrile Moieties: Synthesis, Enzyme Inhibition Profiling, and Molecular Docking Analysis for Carbonic Anhydrase and Acetylcholinesterase

This report presents the synthesis and characterization of a range of benzimidazolium salts featuring 3-cyanopropyl groups on the 1st nitrogen atom and varied alkyl groups on the 3rd nitrogen atom within the benzimidazole structure. Benzimidazolium salts were synthesized by N-alkylation of 1-alkyl benzimidazole with 3-cyanopropyl-bromide. The new salts were characterized by 1 H and 13 C-NMR, FT-IR spectroscopic and elemental analysis techniques. In this study, the enzyme inhibition abilities of seven nitrile substituted benzimidazolium salts were investigated against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes I and II (hCA I and hCA II). They showed a highly potent inhibition effect on AChE, hCA I and hCA II (Ki values are in the range of 26.71-119.09 nM for AChE, 19.77 to 133.68 nM for hCA I and 13.09 to 266.38 nM for hCA II). Reflecting the binding mode of the synthesized cyanopropyl series, the importance of the 2,3,5,6-tetramethylbenzyl, 3-methylbenzyl and 3-benzyl groups for optimal interactions with target proteins, evaluated by molecular docking studies. At the same time, the docking findings support the inhibition constants (Ki ) values of the related compounds in this study. Potential compounds were also evaluated by their pharmacokinetic properties were predicted.

Astragalus Polysaccharide Ameliorates Renal Inflammatory Responses in a Diabetic Nephropathy by Suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB Pathway

Background

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), as a chronic inflammatory complication of diabetes, is characterized by hyperglycemia, albuminuria and edema, which ultimately becomes the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), extracted from the Astragalus membranaceus, was widely used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. However, the functional roles of APS ameliorate inflammatory responses in DN, which remain poorly understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the molecular mechanism of APS on DN in vivo and vitro models.

Methods

We explored the beneficial effects of APS in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN rat model and high glucose (HG)-treated glomerular podocyte model. The fasting blood glucose (FBG) and ratio of kidney weight to body weight were measured after 4 weeks of APS treatment. The renal injury parameters containing serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and 24 h urinary protein were evaluated. The renal pathological examination was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and MCP-1 were evaluated by ELISA assay. The proliferation of podocytes was determined using CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis were performed to determine the amounts of TLR4/NF-κB-related gene expression.

Results

Our results indicated that APS effectively decreased the levels of FBG, BUN, Scr and renal pathological damage when compared with STZ-induced DN model group. Additionally, APS significantly ameliorated renal injury by reducing inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1 expression and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway activity in DN rats. Consistent with the results in vitro, the HG-induced inflammatory response and proliferation of glomerular podocytes were also alleviated through APS administration.

Conclusion

We found that APS ameliorated DN renal injury, and the mechanisms perhaps related to relieving inflammatory responses and attenuating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Carvacrol protects against λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy

λ-Cyhalothrin, a type II synthetic pyrethroid, has been widely used in households, agriculture, public health, and gardening to control insect pests. Despite its widespread usage, it is known to induce a variety of adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The goal of this study was to investigate the protective effect of carvacrol, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and some other properties, on λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity 35 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups for this purpose: I-Control group: II-CRV group (50 mg/kg carvacrol), III-LCT group (6.23 mg/kg LCT), IV-LCT + CRV 25 group (6.23 mg/kg LCT + 25 mg/kg carvacrol), and V-LCT + CRV 50 group (6.23 mg/kg LCT + 50 mg/kg carvacrol). Using biochemical, real-time PCR, and western blotting methods, the collected tissues were analyzed. While λ-Cyhalothrin treatment increased MDA levels, which are indicated of lipid peroxidation, but reduced SOD, CAT, GPx activities, and GSH levels. After receiving carvacrol therapy, the degree of oxidative stress reduced as the values of these parameters approached those of the control group. Increased inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy with λ-Cyhalothrin administration reduced with carvacrol co-administration, and liver and kidney tissues were protected from damage, depending on the degree of oxidative stress. After considering all of these data, it was discovered that λ-Cyhalothrin-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy in the liver and kidneys; however, carvacrol protected the tissues from damage. Our findings indicate that carvacrol may be a promising protective agent in λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Assessment of hypolipidemic and anti-inflammatory properties of walnut (Juglans regia) seed coat extract and modulates some metabolic enzymes activity in triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemia in rat kidney, liver, and heart

Atherosclerosis and cognitive impairment are both influenced by hyperlipidemia. Due to their high margin of safety and low cost, natural chemicals have recently attracted particular attention in the context of the treatment of disease. Hence, the purpose of this study was to investigate the possible amendatory impact of ethanol extract walnut (Juglans regia) seed coat (E-WSC) on some metabolic enzymes (glutathione reductase (GR), paraoxonase-1 (PON1), aldose reductase (AR), sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE)) activity in the liver, kidney, and heart of rats with Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemia. Rats were divided into five groups: control group, HL-Control group (Triton WR-1339 400 mg/kg, i.p administered group), E- WSC + 150 (150 mg/kg,o.d given group), E- WSC + 300 (E- WSC 300 mg/kg, o.d given group) and HL+ E-WSC + 300 (Group receiving E- WSC 300 mg/kg, o.d 30 min prior to administration of Triton WR-1339 400 mg/kg, i.p). In HL-Control, AR, SDH, and BChE enzyme activity was significantly increased in all tissues compared to the control, while the activity of other studied enzymes was significantly decreased. The effects of hyperlipidemia on balance were improved and alterations in the activity of the investigated metabolic enzymes were prevented by E-WSC. As a result, promising natural compounds that can be used as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of cognitive disorders and hyperlipidemia may be found in E-WSC powder.

Ornamental cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) responses to phytase enzyme purified from Lactobacillus coryniformis application

In order to increase the quality and yield of ornamental plants, especially potted ornamental plants, it is necessary to enrich the physical properties of the growing medium and to ensure the continuity of the growing medium. In order to achieve this, organic substances that create a serious cost in ornamental plant cultivation are added to the growing medium. This study was planned to assess the role of inoculation of different levels in the seeds and soaking times of purified phytase, on the plant growth and ornamental plant decorative values in ornamental cabbage plants under nutrient limiting condition in greenhouse. Different doses (E₀ : 0 EU, E₁ : 5 EU, E₂ : 10 EU), soaking times (W₁₅ : 15 min, W₃₀ : 30 min, W₆₀ : 60 min), and their combinations (W₁₅ + E₀ , W₁₅ + E₁ , W₁₅ + E₂ , W₃₀ + E₀ , W₃₀ + E₁ , W₃₀ + E₂ , W₆₀ + E₀ , W₆₀ + E₁ , W₆₀ + E₂ ) of phytase enzyme purified and isolated from the Lactobacillus coryniformis were applied to ornamental cabbage seeds, and they were sown in plug trays filled with appropriate growing medium. Seedlings were planted in plastic pots during their period when the seedlings had four to five true leaves. Treatments of phytase enzyme purified and isolated from the microorganism generally improved the observed parameters. The application of, especially, the highest level of phytase enzyme doses increased the plant height, main stem height, and stem diameter of ornamental cabbage as compared to control (E₀ treatment: distilled water). While the highest number of leaves per plant was obtained at E₁ and E₂ application doses and W₃₀ and W₆₀ soaking times; the highest stem diameter was obtained at E₂ application doses and W₃₀ and W₆₀ soaking times. The present study clarified that the purified phytase enzyme can increase ornamental cabbage quality at the appropriate concentration and soaking time and is a promising biotechnology material for agricultural applications, and especially in different ornamental plant species.

Investigation of the multi-targeted protection potential of tannic acid against doxorubicin-induced kidney damage in rats

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an antitumor drug that is powerful but can cause worse outcomes, including nephrotoxicity, and therefore has limited clinical use. Therefore, it is necessary to identify safer agents that can minimize the damage caused by the drug without shifting the treatment performance, in addition to clarifying the underlying mechanisms of DOX-induced aberrant in vivo renal activation. In this study, we tested the prophylactic capacity and mechanisms of action of tannic acid (TA) against DOX-mediated kidney damage in rats and evaluated the nephrotoxic activity of DOX when used with TA. Rats were treated during the two weeks with cumulative (18 mg/kg with six different injections) DOX, daily TA (50 mg/kg), and the DOX + TA combination. Changes in major metabolites and components involved in antioxidant metabolism were evaluated in the kidney tissues of all animals. Further, the gene expression levels of regulatory factors that have critical importance in cell metabolism, inflammation, and apoptosis were investigated. Both biochemical and molecular examinations showed that TA improved DOX-induced dysregulations at both protein and gene levels in the kidneys. Increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione levels were reversed. Consistent with oxidative stress marker metabolites, suppressed antioxidant enzyme activities and transcript levels of antioxidant system members were restored. Of note, combination treatment with TA could overcome doxorubicin-induced gene expressions markedly altered by DOX, suggesting that nephroprotection conferred by TA involved the remodeling of stress resistance, cell metabolism, inflammation, and apoptosis. Collectively, the present in vivo study suggests that TA could be used as a multitarget and effective agent for the mitigation of doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity without changing the therapeutic efficacy of the drug.

Synthesis and Anticancer Potential of New Hydroxamic Acid Derivatives as Chemotherapeutic Agents

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors have been shown to induce differentiation, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis due to their low toxicity, inhibiting migration, invasion, and angiogenesis in many cancer cells. Studies show that hydroxamic acids are generally used as anticancers. For this reason, it is aimed to synthesize new derivatives of hydroxamic acids, to examine the anticancer properties of these candidate inhibitors, and to investigate the inhibition effects on some enzymes that cause multidrug resistance in cancer cells. For this reason, new (4-amino-2-methoxy benzohydroxamic acid (a), 4-amino-3-methyl benzohydroxamic acid (b), 3-amino-5-methyl benzohydroxamic acid (c)) amino benzohydroxamic acid derivatives were synthesized in this study. The effects on healthy fibroblast, lung (A549), and cervical (HeLa) cancer cells were investigated. In addition, their effects on TRXR1, GST, and GR activities, which are important for the development of chemotherapeutic strategies, were also examined. It was determined that molecule b was the most effective molecule in HeLa cancer cells with the lowest IC₅₀ value of 0.54. It was determined that molecule c was the most effective molecules for A549 and HeLa cancer cells, with the lowest IC₅₀ values of 0.78 mM and 0.25 mM, respectively. It was determined that b and c molecules directed cancer cells to necrosis rather than apoptosis. c molecule showed anticancer effect in A549 and HeLa cancer cells. It was found that molecule c significantly suppressed both GR and TRXR1 activities. In GST activities, however, inhibitors did not have a significant effect on cancer cells.

Biochemical and osmoregulatory responses of the African clawed frog experimentally exposed to salt and pesticide

Salinization and pollution are two main environmental stressors leading deterioration to water quality and degradation of aquatic ecosystems. Amphibians are a highly sensitive group of vertebrates to environmental disturbance of aquatic ecosystems. However, studies on the combined effect of salinization and pollution on the physiology of amphibians are limited. In this study, we measured the standard metabolic rate (SMR) and biochemical parameters of adult males of the invasive frog Xenopus laevis after 45 days of exposure to contrasting salinity environments (400 and 150 mOsm NaCl) with either 1.0 μg/L of the organophosphate pesticide chlorpyrifos (CPF) or pesticide-free medium. Our results revealed a decrease in SMR of animals exposed to the pesticide and in the ability to concentrate the plasma in animals exposed simultaneously to both stressors. The lack of ability to increase plasma concentration in animals exposed to both salt water and CPF, suggests that osmoregulatory response is decreased by pesticide exposure. In addition, we found an increase of liver citrate synthase activity in response to salt stress. Likewise, the liver acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity decreased by 50% in frogs exposed to salt water and CPF and 40% in those exposed only to CPF, which suggest an additive effect of salinity on inhibition of AChE. Finally, oxidative stress increased as shown by the higher lipid peroxidation and concentration of aqueous peroxides found in the group exposed to salt water and pesticide. Thus, our results revealed that X. laevis physiology is compromised by salinization and pesticide exposure to both environmental stressors join.

Investigation of the effects of hesperidin administration on abamectin-induced testicular toxicity in rats through oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and JAK2/STAT3 pathways

In this study, the potential effects of hesperidin (HES) on chronic toxicity caused by abamectin (ABM) in the testicular tissue were investigated through oxidative stress, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), apoptosis, and autophagy pathways. Male Sprague Dawley rats were used in the study. Animals in the ABM group were orally administered 1 mg/kg ABM every other day for 28 days, while HES used against ABM was given at 100 or 200 mg/kg 30 min after ABM administration for 28 days. Markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, ERS, apoptosis, and autophagy in the testicular tissues removed after the animals are sacrificed were analyzed using biochemical, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), or western blot techniques. The results obtained showed that ABM caused oxidative stress, and triggered ERS, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy. On the other hand, HES showed antioxidant effect by increasing superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase enzyme activities, and glutathione levels in testis tissue and attenuated lipid peroxidation. Accordingly, MAPK14 reduced the NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression levels, presenting an anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, Bax protected against apoptosis and autophagy by reducing the caspase-3, beclin-1, LC3A, and LC3B expressions, and increasing Bcl-2 expression. It was observed that HES also interrupted the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway by suppressing IL-6 expression. Taken into consideration together, HES provided significant protection against the destruction caused by ABM in testicular tissue with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and anti-autophagic effects. Thus, it was revealed that HES has the potential to serve as an alternative treatment option in ABM toxicity.

Ivermectin: A multilevel approach to evaluate effects in Prochilodus lineatus (Valenciennes, 1836) (Characiformes, Prochilodontidae), an inland fishery species

Ivermectin (IVM) is one of the most widely used antiparasitics worldwide. It is a potent and effective drug for treatment and prevention of internal and external parasitic infections of livestock and humans. IVM is excreted unchanged in manure of treated animals. Thus, residues of IVM may reach aquatic systems, affecting non-target organisms such as fish. Although the presence of IVM in aquatic environments has been reported, a multilevel approach (from cellular to behavioral responses) is necessary to determine the health of exposed organisms and the environmental risks associated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the response of the Neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus, one of the main target species of South American freshwater fisheries, exposed to environmental concentrations of IVM: low (0.5 μg L^-1) and high (1.5 μg L^-1). Behavioral responses were assessed in juvenile fish and included water column use, routine swimming, total distance travelled, total activity time and Maximum swimming speed achieved during the escape response. Biochemical/oxidative stress responses assessed included brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities; total antioxidant competence against peroxyl radicals (ACAP) and lipid oxidative damage (TBARs). Hematological biomarker responses included blood glucose levels, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and mean corpuscular volume. Condition factor and hepatosomatic index were also calculated. The lowest IVM concentration caused a significant decrease in GST activity and maximum swimming speed during the escape response. Multivariate analysis with biochemical/stress and behavioral data revealed overall effects of IVM treatments. This multilevel analysis shows detrimental effects related to swimming behavior and predator avoidance which could affect population size and size-structure of P. lineatus. To our knowledge this is the first attempt to assess the effects of IVM on Neotropical fishes using an integrative approach based on biomarkers from different levels of biological organization.

Effect of chlorpyrifos on some biochemical changes in Cyprinus carpio: the protective effect of ellagic acid

In this study, ameliorative effects of ellagic acid (EA) on oxidative stress induced by chlorpyrifos (CPF) in carp, Cyprinus carpio, were investigated. Fish were divided into six groups: C (no treatment), EA (100 mg kg fish^-1), CPF-1 (0.040 mg L^-1), CPF-2 (0.080 mg L^-1), CPF-1 + EA, and CPF-2 + EA. CPF and EA were applied simultaneously for 14 days and, at the end of the study, liver, kidney, and gill samples were collected from fish. On the taken tissue samples, malondialdehyde (MDA) level and some antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST)) activities were evaluated. The results demonstrated statistically significant increases in the MDA levels of the CPF-1 and CPF-2 groups. On the other hand, the MDA levels were significantly decreased by EA administration. Also, CPF exposure caused statistically significant increases in the SOD and GST activities and statistically significant decreases in the CAT and GPx activities. However, treatment with EA reversed negative alterations in the SOD, CAT, GPx, and GST activities. Therefore, the results of this study results showed that simultaneous treatment with EA alleviates CPF-induced oxidative stress in fish.

Transcriptome Analysis Provides Insights into Hepatic Responses to Trichloroisocyanuric Acid Exposure in Goldfish (Carassius auratus)

Simple Summary

Trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) has been widely used in public health and aquaculture for the prevention and treatment of diseases. As a strong oxidative disinfectant, TCCA may cause adverse influences on aquatic organisms and further poses a threat to the aquatic ecosystems. Nonetheless, the toxicological influences of TCCA on aquatic animals are still scarce and the mechanisms of the toxicity at the molecular levels in goldfish (Carassius auratus) have not been illustrated. The current study investigated the influences of sublethal concentration of TCCA on transcriptomic responses, the molecular indices of oxidative stress, and histopathological alterations in the hepatic and gill tissues of goldfish. The results indicated that TCCA exposure induced the disturbance of energy metabolism and the detoxification process. Furthermore, TCCA exposure also induced oxidative stress in the liver and caused pathological damage in gills. These findings could be useful to help understand the toxicological influences of TCCA on goldfish.

Abstract

In this study, goldfish (Carassius auratus) were exposed to 0 (control group) and 0.81 mg/L TCCA for four consecutive days. The liver transcriptome, the molecular indices of oxidative stress, and gills histopathology were investigated. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis indicated that energy metabolism-related pathways such as glycolysis/gluconeogenesis were significantly enriched, suggesting their perturbation in the liver of goldfish. Additionally, TCCA exposure also caused pathological damage in gills, which compromised physiological function and decreased oxygen intake capacity of gills, thus leading to the enhancement of anaerobic metabolism. This finding was confirmed by the significant upregulation of lactate dehydrogenase in the liver of goldfish. Moreover, many phase I and phase II metabolic enzymes might be activated to alleviate TCCA-induced toxicity in goldfish, and glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and cytochrome P450s (CYPs) play a crucial role in the metabolism of TCCA in the liver of goldfish. Furthermore, the antioxidant enzyme analysis showed that TCCA exposure induced oxidative damage in the liver and partially impaired the antioxidant defense system of goldfish, evidenced by decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) level. In summary, this study will improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the TCCA-induced toxicity in goldfish.

In silico prediction, characterization and molecular docking studies on Glutathione-S-transferase as a molecular sieve for toxic agrochemicals explored in survey of North Indian farmers

All across the globe, India is considered as an agricultural nation because its agro products drive the economy. An increase in population growth and a hike in food demands lead to the use of hazardous chemicals in farm fields. An in-depth field survey in Northern India was conducted to understand the types of agrochemicals that were used, farmers' knowledge about their safe handling, and their practices on its usage. Ninety-two responders (primarily farmers) from 37 districts of 12 states were interviewed to collect the information. The library containing 58 compounds as toxic spray constituents were developed and further screened in-silico for ADMET, drug-likeness, toxicity prediction, and molecular docking against their target actions in the human system. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) was selected as target protein showing the best-docked score with Bordeaux, Indoxacarb, Cyphenothrin, Deltamethrin, and Beta-cyfluthrin. The study revealed various adverse effects on human health and advocated provisions of alternative solutions such as using GST as a binding agents to hold the toxic chemicals out of living system and eventually saves valuable lives of the farmers.

Investigation of steatosis profiles induced by pesticides using liver organ-on-chip model and omics analysis

Several studies have reported a correlation between pesticides exposure and metabolic disorders. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and permethrin (PMT), two pesticides highly prevalent in the environment, have been associated to dysregulation of liver lipids and glucose metabolisms and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the effects of DDT/PMT mixtures and mechanisms mediating their action remain unclear. Here, we used multi-omic to investigate the liver damage induced by DDT, PMT and their mixture in rat liver organ-on-chip. Organ-on-chip allow the reproduction of in vivo-like micro-environment. Two concentrations, 15 and 150 μM, were used to expose the hepatocytes for 24 h under perfusion. The transcriptome and metabolome analysis suggested a dose-dependent effect for all conditions, with a profile close to control for pesticides low-doses. The comparison between control and high-doses detected 266/24, 256/24 and 1349/30 genes/metabolites differentially expressed for DDT150, PMT150 and Mix150 (DDT150/PMT150). Transcriptome modulation reflected liver inflammation, steatosis, necrosis, PPAR signaling and fatty acid metabolism. The metabolome analysis highlighted common signature of three treatments including lipid and carbohydrates production, and a decrease in amino acids and krebs cycle intermediates. Our study illustrates the potential of organ-on-chip coupled to multi-omics for toxicological studies and provides new tools for chemical risk assessment.

Differential mitochondrial dysregulation by exposure to individual organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and their mixture in zebrafish embryos

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been reported to cause mitochondrial dysfunction. However, most studies reported its mitochondrial toxicity with respect to a single form, which is far from the environmentally relevant conditions. In this study, we exposed zebrafish embryos to five OCPs: chlordane, heptachlor, p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p'-DDT), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), and hexachlorobenzene (HCB), as well as an equal ratio mixture of these OCPs. We evaluated mitochondrial function, including oxygen consumption, the activity of mitochondrial complexes, antioxidant reactions, and expression of genes involved in mitochondrial metabolism. Oxygen consumption rate was reduced by exposure to chlordane, and β-HCH, linking to the increased activity of specific mitochondrial complex I and III, and decreased GSH level. We found that these mitochondrial dysfunctions were more significant in the exposure to the OCP mixture than the individual OCPs. On the mRNA transcription level, the individual OCPs mainly dysregulated the metabolic cycle (i.e., cs and acadm), whereas the OCP mixture disrupted the genes related to mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (i.e., sdha). Consequently, we demonstrate that the OCP mixture disrupts mitochondrial metabolism by a different molecular mechanism than the individual OCPs, which warrants further study to evaluate mitochondrial dysregulation by chronic exposure to the OCP mixture.

The effect of brimonidine and proparacaine on metabolic enzymes: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, and glutathione reductase

Oxidative stress is to upregulate the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). The PPP consists of two functional branches, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and 6-phosphogluconaste dehydrogenase (6PGD). Glutathione reductase (GR) has a significant role in catalyzing an oxidized glutathione form into a reduced form. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of brimonidine and proparacaine on the activity of 6PGD, G6PD, and GR enzymes purified from human erythrocytes. Brimonidine displayed considerable inhibition profile against G6PD with IC₅₀ value and K_I constant of 29.93 ± 3.56 and 48.46 ± 0.66 μM, respectively. On the other hand, proparacaine had no inhibitory effect against G6PD. K_I values were found to be 66.06 ± 0.78 and 811.50 ± 11.13 μM for brimonidine and proparacaine, respectively, for 6PGD. K_I values were found to be 144.10 ± 2.01 and 1,654.00 ± 26.29 μM for brimonidine and proparacaine, respectively, for GR. Herein, also in silico molecular docking studies were performed between drugs and enzymes.

Effect of Lambdacyhalothrin on Locomotor Activity, Memory, Selected Biochemical Parameters, Tumor Necrosis Factor α, and Interleukin 1ß in a Mouse Model

Background: Pyrethroids are synthetic insecticides used for plant protection. They are synthetic analogues of pyrethrins. Lambdacyhalothrin (LCH) is a type II pyrethroid used for wheat, potato, corn farming, and malaria control. There are data that pyrethroids may cause neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and immunotoxicity in non-target organisms. Methods: The experiment was carried on 32 Albino Swiss mice (16 females and 16 males). The animals were divided into four groups. Controls received canola oil; the rest received LCH orally in oil at a dose of 2 mg/kg bw for 7 days. Memory retention was assessed in a passive avoidance task on day 2 and 7, and spatial memory and motor activity in a Y-maze on day 1 and 7. Blood morphology, biochemical tests, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin 1ß were measured. Results: Decreased white blood cell count and red blood cell count, increased creatinine, and increased kidney and liver mass were observed in groups exposed to LCH. In LCH-exposed males’ kidneys and livers, interleukin 1ß was significantly elevated, and it was correlated with creatinine concentration. Conclusions: Subacute poisoning with a low dose of LCH does not significantly affect memory nor locomotor activity but increases proinflammatory interleukin 1ß in male livers and kidneys and reduces white and red blood cell counts.

Exposure to the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid impairs mitochondrial function, oxidative status, and behavior in adult zebrafish

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is one of the most commonly used herbicides worldwide. While the effects of 2,4-D in target organisms are well known, its consequences in nontarget organisms are not fully explained. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the herbicide on mitochondrial energy metabolism, oxidative status, and exploratory behavior in adult zebrafish. Animal exposure to 2,4-D increased cytochrome c oxidase and catalase activities and reduced SOD/CAT ratio, moreover, increased the total distance traveled and the number of crossings. Finally, animals exposed to 2,4-D spent more time in the upper zone of the tank and traveled a long distance in the upper zone. Overall, our results indicate the 2,4-D can provoke disabling effects in nontarget organisms. The obtained data showed that exposure to 2,4-D at environmentally relevant concentrations alters mitochondrial metabolism and antioxidant status and disturbs the zebrafish innate behavior.

Cross-Taxa Distinctions in Mechanisms of Developmental Effects for Aquatic Species Exposed to Trifluralin

Standard ecological risk assessment practices often rely on larval and juvenile fish toxicity data as representative of the amphibian aquatic phase. Empirical evidence suggests that endpoints measured in fish early life stage tests are often sufficient to protect larval amphibians. However, the process of amphibian metamorphosis relies on endocrine cues that affect development and morphological restructuring and are not represented by these test endpoints. The present study compares developmental endpoints for zebrafish (Danio rerio) and the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis), 2 standard test species, exposed to the herbicide trifluralin throughout the larval period. Danio rerio were more sensitive and demonstrated a reduction in growth measurements with increasing trifluralin exposure. Size of X. laevis at metamorphosis was not correlated with exposure concentration; however, time to metamorphosis was delayed relative to trifluralin concentration. Gene expression patterns indicate discrepancies in response by D. rerio and X. laevis, and dose-dependent metabolic activity suggests that trifluralin exposure perturbed biological pathways differently within the 2 species. Although many metabolites were correlated with exposure concentration in D. rerio, nontargeted hepatic metabolomics identified a subset of metabolites that exhibited a nonmonotonic response to trifluralin exposure in X. laevis. Linking taxonomic distinctions in cellular-level response with ecologically relevant endpoints will refine assumptions used in interspecies extrapolation of standard test effects and improve assessment of sublethal impacts on amphibian populations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1797-1812. Published 2020. This article is a US government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Molecular Docking Studies and Inhibition Properties of Some Antineoplastic Agents against Paraoxonase-I

Background:

Currently, most of the drugs used in clinical applications show their pharmacological influences by inhibiting or activating enzymes. Therefore, enzyme inhibitors have an essential place in the drug design for many diseases.

Objective:

The current study aimed to contribute to this growing drug design field (i.e., medicine discovery and development) by analyzing enzyme-drug interactions.

Methods:

For this reason, Paraoxonase-I (PON1) enzyme was purified from fresh human serum by using rapid chromatographic techniques. Additionally, the inhibition effects of some antineoplastic agents were researched on the PON1.

Results:

The enzyme was obtained with a specific activity of 2603.57 EU/mg protein. IC50 values for pemetrexed disodium, irinotecan hydrochloride, dacarbazine, and azacitidine were determined to be 9.63μM, 30.13μM, 53.31μM, and 21.00mM, respectively. These agents found to strongly inhibit PON1, with Ki constants ranging from 8.29±1.47μM to 23.34±2.71mM. Dacarbazine and azacitidine showed non-competitive inhibition, while other drugs showed competitive inhibition. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed using maestro for these agents. Among these, irinotecan hydrochloride and pemetrexed disodium possess the binding energy of -5.46 and -8.43 kcal/mol, respectively.

Conclusion:

The interaction studies indicated that these agents with the PON1 possess binding affinity.

Biochemical markers for prolongation of the acute stress of triclosan in the early life stages of four food fishes

In the present study, embryos of four food fishes viz. Cyprinus carpio, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala were given acute (96 h) exposure to their respective LC₀, LC₁₀ and LC₃₀ (causing 0, 10 and 30% mortality, respectively) concentrations of triclosan [TCS, 5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol], a broad spectrum biocide. Bioaccumulation, contents of protein, non-enzymatic antioxidants (GSH and GSSG), MDA (lipid peroxidation product) and organic acids (fumarate, succinate, malate and citrate) along with the activities of AChE (neurological enzyme), GST (detoxification enzyme) and three metabolic enzymes (LDH, AST and ALT) were estimated after 48 and 96 h exposure and 10 days post exposure. Around 1/10 of the TCS in water got accumulated in the hatchlings after 96 h, increase over 48 h values was maximum at LC₀ (+195.30, +143.23 and + 140.75%) but minimum at LC₃₀ (+89.62, +84.26 and + 126.72%) for C. idella, L. rohita and C. mrigala, respectively. In C. carpio, TCS got accumulated only at LC₃₀ after 48 h but at all the concentrations after 96 h exposure. Contents of protein, GSH, GSSG and activity of AChE decreased but activities of GSH, LDH, AST and ALT and contents of MDA and organic acids increased concentration dependently in all the fishes. TCS declined by 85-90% but its toxic effects on biomolecules prolonged till the end of the recovery period. Such acute exposures are accidental but there is a need to evaluate biomarkers for prolongation of the stress of small concentrations especially LC₀ and LC₁₀ (causing negligible mortality) of lipophilic pollutants like TCS.

Inhibition effects of some pesticides and heavy metals on carbonic anhydrase enzyme activity purified from horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) gill tissues

The gill tissue is the main site of metabolic enzymes or compensation, with the kidney tissue playing a supporting role. At the gill tissue, carbonic anhydrase enzymes (CAs) catalyze the hydration of CO₂ to HCO₃^- and H⁺ for production to the H₂O. In this work, the CA enzyme was purified from horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) gill with a specific activity of 21,381.42 EU/mg, purification fold of 150.61, total activity of 2347.68 EU/mL, and a yield of 16.13% using sepharose 4B-L-tyrosine-sulfanilamide affinity gel chromatography. For recording the enzyme purity, gel electrophoresis was performed, and single band was seen. The molecular weight of this enzyme was found approximately 35 kDa. Also, the inhibitory effects of different pesticides such as thiram, clofentezine, propineb, deltamethrin, azoxystrobin, and thiophanate and heavy metal ions such as Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺, Co²⁺, Pb²⁺ Hg²⁺, and As³⁺ on horse mackerel gill tissue CA enzyme activities were investigated. Our results indicated that these pesticides and metal ions showed inhibitory effects at low nanomolar and millimolar concentrations for fish gill CA enzymes, respectively.

Differential effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on paraoxonase-1 enzyme activity: An in vitro study

Paraoxonase-I (PON1) is a calcium-dependent hydrolytic enzyme, plays an important role in most antioxidant properties related to high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Antidepressant drugs are commonly employed in treatment of mood disorders and anxiety treatment. In this study, human serum PON1 was purified using simple reproducible procedures and the effects of some antidepressant drugs on its activity were determined. It was found that mirtazapine, aripiprazole, escitalopram, and risperidone exhibited potential inhibitory properties on the purified PON1 activity with IC₅₀ values in the range of 115.50-231.00 μM and K_i values in the range of 41.66 ± 4.27 μM-276.36 ± 35.28 μM. Both risperidone and escitalopram inhibited PON1 activity competitively, while both aripiprazole and mirtazapine inhibited PON1 activity non-competitively. Chlorpromazine did not affect PON1 activity. Usage of drugs with significant biological activity may be hazardous in some cases.

Purification and characterization of the carbonic anhydrase enzyme from horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) muscle and the impact of some metal ions and pesticides on enzyme activity

In this paper, the total carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzyme was purified from horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) muscle with a specific activity of 23,063.93 EU/mg, purification fold of 551.08, total activity of 1522.22 EU/mL and a yield of 18.50% using sulfanilamide affinity column chromatography. For obtaining the subunit molecular mass and enzyme purity, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) for this part was performed and a single band was clearly recorded. The molecular mass of this enzyme was found approximately 35 kDa. The optimum temperature and pH values were obtained from Arrhenius plot. In addition, the inhibitory effects of different heavy metal ions (Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺, Co²⁺, Pb²⁺ Hg²⁺ and As³⁺) and some pesticides (thiram, clofentezine, propineb, deltamethrin, azoxystrobin and thiophanate) on horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) muscle tissue CA enzyme activities were investigated by utilizing esterase assay activity. The used metal ions and pesticides had IC₅₀ values in the range of 0.21-13.84 mM and 3.78-70.58 mM, respectively.

Synthesis, biological evaluation and in silico studies of novel N-substituted phthalazine sulfonamide compounds as potent carbonic anhydrase and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors

The synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of a series of novel N-substituted phthalazine sulfonamide (5a-l) are disclosed. Phthalazines which are nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds are biologically preferential scaffolds, endowed with versatile pharmacological activity, such as anti-inflammatory, cardiotonic vasorelaxant, anticonvulsant, antihypertensive, antibacterial, anti-cancer action. The compounds were investigated for the inhibition against the cytosolic hCA I, II and AChE. Most screened sulfonamides showed high potency in inhibiting hCA II, widely involved in glaucoma, epilepsy, edema, and other pathologies (K_is in the ranging from 6.32 ± 0.06 to 128.93 ± 23.11 nM). hCA I was inhibited with K_is in the range of 6.80 ± 0.10-85.91 ± 7.57 nM, whereas AChE in the range of 60.79 ± 3.51-249.55 ± 7.89 nM. ADME prediction study of the designed N-substituted phthalazine sulfonamides showed that they are not only with carbonic anhydrase and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities but also with appropriate pharmacokinetic, physicochemical parameters and drug-likeness properties. Also, in silico docking studies were investigated the binding modes of selected compounds, to hCA I, II, and AChE.