Ephedra Herb extract ameliorates adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome in rats via the CAMKK2/AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway

Exploring the anti-cancer properties of Carissa carandas as a multi-targeted approach against breast cancer

The escalating incidence of breast cancer globally presents a formidable challenge within oncology. Our research pursued an examination of the anti-cancer potential of Carissa carandas, a shrub traditionally used for medicinal purposes and known for its composition of vital nutrients and phytochemicals. We employed a network pharmacology strategy combined with molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to elucidate the intricate relationships between the phytochemical constituents of C. carandas, critical breast cancer proteins, and associated signaling pathways. The study highlighted a complex network of protein interactions, identifying AKT1, HIF1A, PTGS2, and GSK3B as key nodes within this network. These proteins are engaged by numerous investigated compounds from C. carandas and are fundamental in modulating crucial signaling pathways such as those involving Estrogen, HIF-1, Prolactin, VEGF, and Th17 cell differentiation-each of which plays a recognized role in breast cancer progression, affecting tumor growth, proliferation, and metastatic potential. Our analysis suggests that the phytochemicals in C. carandas may exert anti-cancer activity by synergistically modulating these pathways, highlighting the benefit of multi-targeted therapeutic approaches over single-targeted ones. In summary, through the application of advanced network pharmacology, molecular docking, MD simulations, and MM/PBSA analysis, our study offers a detailed exploration of the potential mechanisms by which C. carandas may exert anti-cancer effects. This sets a foundation for further in-depth experimental and clinical trials to validate these mechanisms and support the advancement of novel plant-derived therapeutic options towards breast cancer, with the possibility of significantly advancing the therapeutic options for this prevalent disease.

Effect of olive leaf phytochemicals on the anti-acetylcholinesterase, anti-cyclooxygenase-2 and ferric reducing antioxidant capacity

In this study, the phytochemical profile of fifty olive leaves (OL) extracts from Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, and Morocco was characterized and their anti-cholinergic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities were evaluated. Luteolin-7-O-glucoside, isoharmnentin, and apigenin were involved in the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity, while oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol showed noteworthy potential. Secoiridoids contributed to the cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory activity and antioxidant capacity. Compounds such as oleuropein, ligstroside and luteolin-7-O-glucoside, may exert an important role in the ferric reducing antioxidant capacity. It should be also highlighted the role of hydroxytyrosol, hydroxycoumarins, and verbascoside concerning the antioxidant activity. This research provides valuable insights and confirms that specific compounds within OL extracts contribute to distinct anti-cholinergic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative effects.

Study and evaluation of a gelatin- silver oxide nanoparticles releasing nitric oxide production of wound healing dressing for diabetic ulcer

This study aimed to develop a novel Gelatin silver oxide material for releasing nitric oxide bionanocomposite wound dressing with enhanced mechanical, chemical, and antibacterial properties for the treatment of diabetic wounds. The gelatin- silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag2O-NP) bio nanocomposite was prepared using chitosan and gelatin polymers incorporated with silver oxide nanoparticles through the freeze-drying method. The samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Results showed that the Ag2O-NP nanoparticles increased porosity, decreased pore size, and improved elastic modulus. The Ag2O-NP wound dressing exhibited the most effective antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Among the samples, the wound dressing containing silver oxide nanoparticles demonstrated superior physical and mechanical properties, with 48% porosity, a tensile strength of 3.2 MPa, and an elastic modulus of 51.7 MPa. The fabricated wound dressings had a volume ratio of empty space to total volume ranging from 40% to 60%. In parallel, considering the complications of diabetes and its impact on the vascular system, another aspect of the research focused on developing a per2mediated wound dressing capable of releasing nitric oxide gas to regenerate damaged vessels and accelerate diabetic wound healing. Chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer, was selected as the substrate for the wound dressing, and beta-glycerophosphate (GPβ), tripolyphosphate (TPP), and per2mediated alginate (AL) were used as crosslinkers. The chitosan-alginate (CS-AL) wound dressing exhibited optimal characteristics in terms of hole count and uniformity in the scanning electron microscope test. It also demonstrated superior water absorption (3854%) and minimal air permeability. Furthermore, the CS-AL sample exhibited an 80% degradation rate after 14 days, indicating its suitability as a wound dressing. The wound dressing was loaded with S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) powder, and the successful release of nitric oxide gas was confirmed through the grease test, showing a peak at a wavelength of 540 nm. Subsequent investigations revealed that the treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with high glucose led to a decrease in the expression of PER2 and SIRT1, while the expression of PER2 increased, which may subsequently enhance the expression of SIRT1 and promote cell proliferation activity. However, upon treatment of the cells with the modified materials, an increase in the expression of PER2 and SIRT1 was observed, resulting in a partial restoration of cell proliferative activity. This comprehensive study successfully developed per2-mediated bio-nanocomposite wound dressings with improved physical, mechanical, chemical, and antibacterial properties. The incorporation of silver oxide nanoparticles enhanced the antimicrobial activity, while the released nitric oxide gas from the dressing demonstrated the ability to mitigate vascular endothelial cell damage induced by high glucose levels. These advancements show promising potential for facilitating the healing process of diabetic wounds by addressing complications associated with diabetes and enhancing overall wound healing.

Green synthesis of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide and Silver Nanoparticles in Satureja hortensis Leave Extract: Evaluation of Antifungal Effects on Botryosphaeriaceae Species

In recent years, green synthesis methods of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been attractive because of the more facile, cheaper, and appropriate features associated with biomolecules in MNPs biosynthesis. This research represented an easy, fast, and environmentally friendly method to biosynthesis of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by the Satureja hortensis leaf extract as stabilizer and reducer. The SPIONPs synthesized in co-precipitation method. The biosynthesized SPIONPs and AgNPs were studied their antifungal effects against three Botryosphaeriaceae plant pathogens, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Diplodia seriata, and Neofusicoccum parvum. UV-visible spectra (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (Fe-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM) analyses were used to evaluate the physicochemical properties and verify the formation of green synthesized SPIONPs and AgNPs. UV-Vis spectra revealed absorption peaks at 243 and 448 nm for SPIONs and 436 nm for AgNPs, respectively. Microscopic and XRD analysis showed that SPIONPs and AgNPs was found spherical in shape with an average particle size of SPIONPs and AgNPs 10 and 12 nm, respectively. The antifungal test against Botryosphaeriaceae species showed that SPIONPs and AgNPs possess antifungal properties against B. dothidea, D. seriata, and N. parvum. However, AgNPs exhibits greater antifungal activity than SPIONPs. The results of the cytotoxicity tests of SPIONs and AgNPs on the MCF-7 cell line showed that AgNPs was significantly more cytotoxic towards the MCF-7 cell line, whereas no significant cytotoxic effect was recorded by SPIONs. Therefore, these biosynthesized MNPs could be substituted for toxic fungicides that are extensively applied in agriculture and contribute to environmental health and food safety.

Cardiovascular challenges in the era of antiretroviral therapy for AIDS/ HIV: A comprehensive review of research advancements, pathophysiological insights, and future directions

Cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary heart disease, is becoming more common among those living with HIV. Individuals with HIV face an increased susceptibility to myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack, as compared to the general population in developed countries. This heightened risk can be attributed mainly to the presence of effective antiretroviral drugs and the resulting longer lifespan. Some cardiac issues linked to non-antiretroviral medications, including myocarditis, endocarditis, cardiomyopathy with dilation, pulmonary hypertension, and oedema of the heart, may affect those not undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART). Impaired immune function and systemic inflammation are significant contributors to this phenomenon after initiating highly aggressive antiretroviral treatment ART. It is becoming more challenging to determine the best course of treatment for HIV-associated cardiomyopathy due to new research suggesting that protease inhibitors might have a negative impact on the development of HF. Currently, the primary focus of research on ART medications is centered on the cardiovascular adverse effects of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors. This review paper thoroughly evaluates the advancements achieved in cardiovascular disease research and explores the potential implications for prospects. Additionally, it considers the field's future prospects while examining how ART might be altered and its clinical applications.

The multifaceted role of Fragile X-Related Protein 1 (FXR1) in cellular processes: an updated review on cancer and clinical applications

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) modulate the expression level of several target RNAs (such as mRNAs) post-transcriptionally through interactions with unique binding sites in the 3'-untranslated region. There is mounting information that suggests RBP dysregulation plays a significant role in carcinogenesis. However, the function of FMR1 autosomal homolog 1(FXR1) in malignancies is just beginning to be unveiled. Due to the diversity of their RNA-binding domains and functional adaptability, FXR1 can regulate diverse transcript processing. Changes in FXR1 interaction with RNA networks have been linked to the emergence of cancer, although the theoretical framework defining these alterations in interaction is insufficient. Alteration in FXR1 expression or localization has been linked to the mRNAs of cancer suppressor genes, cancer-causing genes, and genes involved in genomic expression stability. In particular, FXR1-mediated gene regulation involves in several cellular phenomena related to cancer growth, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, senescence, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. FXR1 dysregulation has been implicated in diverse cancer types, suggesting its diagnostic and therapeutic potential. However, the molecular mechanisms and biological effects of FXR1 regulation in cancer have yet to be understood. This review highlights the current knowledge of FXR1 expression and function in various cancer situations, emphasizing its functional variety and complexity. We further address the challenges and opportunities of targeting FXR1 for cancer diagnosis and treatment and propose future directions for FXR1 research in oncology. This work intends to provide an in-depth review of FXR1 as an emerging oncotarget with multiple roles and implications in cancer biology and therapy.

In silico Approaches for Exploring the Pharmacological Activities of Benzimidazole Derivatives: A Comprehensive Review

BACKGROUND

This article reviews computational research on benzimidazole derivatives. Cytotoxicity for all compounds against cancer cell lines was measured and the results revealed that many compounds exhibited high inhibitions. This research examines the varied pharmacological properties like anticancer, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant activities of benzimidazole derivatives. The suggested method summarises In silico research for each activity. This review examines benzimidazole derivative structure-activity relationships and pharmacological effects. In silico investigations can anticipate structural alterations and their effects on these derivative's pharmacological characteristics and efficacy through many computational methods. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and virtual screening help anticipate pharmacological effects and optimize chemical design. These trials will improve lead optimization, target selection, and ADMET property prediction in drug development. In silico benzimidazole derivative studies will be assessed for gaps and future research. Prospective studies might include empirical verification, pharmacodynamic analysis, and computational methodology improvement.

OBJECTIVES

This review discusses benzimidazole derivative In silico research to understand their specific pharmacological effects. This will help scientists design new drugs and guide future research.

METHODS

Latest, authentic and published reports on various benzimidazole derivatives and their activities are being thoroughly studied and analyzed.

RESULT

The overview of benzimidazole derivatives is more comprehensive, highlighting their structural diversity, synthetic strategies, mechanisms of action, and the computational tools used to study them.

CONCLUSION

In silico studies help to understand the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of benzimidazole derivatives. Through meticulous alterations of substituents, ring modifications, and linker groups, this study identified the structural factors influencing the pharmacological activity of benzimidazole derivatives. These findings enable the rational design and optimization of more potent and selective compounds.

Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity potential of organoselenium compounds in human leukocytes in vitro

In the current work, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of different organoselenium compounds were examined using Trypan blue exclusion and alkaline comet assays with silver staining respectively. Leukocytes were subjected to a 3-hour incubation with organoselenium compounds at concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 75 μM, or with the control vehicle (DMSO), at a temperature of 37 °C. The viability of the cells was evaluated using the Trypan blue exclusion method, while DNA damage was analyzed through the alkaline comet assay with silver staining. The exposure of leukocytes to different organoselenium compounds including i.e. (Z)-N-(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)-1-(2-((2-(1-((E)-pyridin-2-ylmethyleneamino)ethyl)phenyl)diselanyl)phenyl)ethanamine (C1), 2,2'(1Z,1'E)-(1,1'-(2,2'-diselanediylbis(2,1-phenylene))bis(ethane-1,1-diyl)) bis(azan-1-yl-1-ylidene)bis -methan-1-yl-1-ylidene)diphenol (C2), and dinaphthyl diselenide (NapSe)2, At concentrations ranging from 1 to 5 μM, no significant DNA damage was observed, as indicated by the absence of a noteworthy increase in the Damage Index (DI). Our results suggest that the organoselenium selenium compounds tested were not genotoxic and cytotoxic to human leukocytes in vitro at lower concentration. This study offers further insights into the genotoxicity profile of these organochalcogens in human leukocytes. Their genotoxicity and cytotoxicity effects at higher concentration are probably mediated through reactive oxygen species generation and their ability to catalyze thiol oxidation.

Simultaneous Study of Analysis of Anti-inflammatory Potential of Dryopteris ramosa (C. Hope) C. Chr. using GC-Mass and Computational Modeling on the Xylene-induced Ear Oedema in Mouse Model

INTRODUCTION

In the present study, we aimed to investigate the extraction and identification of the potential phytochemicals from the Methanolic Extract of Dryopteris ramosa (MEDR) using GC-MS profiling for validating the traditional uses of MEDR its efficacy in inflammations by using in-vitro, in-vivo and in silico approaches in anti-inflammatory models.

METHODS

GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of a total of 59 phytochemical compounds. The human red blood cells (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay and heat-induced hemolysis method were used as in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity of the extract. The in-vivo analysis was carried out through the Xylene-induced mice ear oedema method. It was found that MEDR at a concentration of 20 μg, 30 μg, and 40 μg showed 35.45%, 36.01%, and 36.33% protection to HRBC in a hypotonic solution, respectively. At the same time, standard Diclofenac at 30 μg showed 45.31% protection of HRBC in a hypotonic solution.

RESULTS

The extract showed inhibition of 25.32%, 26.53%, and 33.31% cell membrane lysis at heating at 20 μg, 30 μg, and 40 μg, respectively. In comparison, standard Diclofenac at 30 μg showed 50.49% inhibition of denaturation to heat. Methanolic extract of the plant exhibited momentous inhibition in xylene-induced ear oedema in mice treated with 30 μg extract were 47.2%, 63.4%, and 78.8%, while inhibition in mice ear oedema treated with 60 μg extract was 34.7%, 43.05%, 63.21% and reduction in ear thickness of standard drug were 57.3%, 59.54%, 60.42% recorded at the duration of 1, 4 and 24 hours of inflammation. Molecular docking and simulations were performed to validate the anti-inflammatory role of the phytochemicals that revealed five potential phytochemicals i.e. Stigmasterol,22,23dihydro, Heptadecane,8methyl, Pimaricacid, Germacrene and 1,3Cyclohexadiene,_5(1,5dimethyl4hexenyl)-2methyl which revealed potential or significant inhibitory effects on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL-6) in the docking analysis.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of the study signifies that MEDR can offer a new prospect in the discovery of a harmonizing and alternative therapy for inflammatory disease conditions.