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Mares C, Udrea AM, Buiu C, Staicu A, Avram S. Therapeutic Potentials of Aconite-like Alkaloids: Bioinformatics and Experimental Approaches. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:159-175. [PMID: 36994982 DOI: 10.2174/1389557523666230328153417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Compounds from plants that are used in traditional medicine may have medicinal properties. It is well known that plants belonging to the genus Aconitum are highly poisonous. Utilizing substances derived from Aconitum sp. has been linked to negative effects. In addition to their toxicity, the natural substances derived from Aconitum species may have a range of biological effects on humans, such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer characteristics. Multiple in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of their therapeutic effects. In this review, the clinical effects of natural compounds extracted from Aconitum sp., focusing on aconitelike alkaloids, are investigated particularly by bioinformatics tools, such as the quantitative structure- activity relationship method, molecular docking, and predicted pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. The experimental and bioinformatics aspects of aconitine's pharmacogenomic profile are discussed. Our review could help shed light on the molecular mechanisms of Aconitum sp. compounds. The effects of several aconite-like alkaloids, such as aconitine, methyllycacintine, or hypaconitine, on specific molecular targets, including voltage-gated sodium channels, CAMK2A and CAMK2G during anesthesia, or BCL2, BCL-XP, and PARP-1 receptors during cancer therapy, are evaluated. According to the reviewed literature, aconite and aconite derivatives have a high affinity for the PARP-1 receptor. The toxicity estimations for aconitine indicate hepatotoxicity and hERG II inhibitor activity; however, this compound is not predicted to be AMES toxic or an hERG I inhibitor. The efficacy of aconitine and its derivatives in treating many illnesses has been proven experimentally. Toxicity occurs as a result of the high ingested dose; however, the usage of this drug in future research is based on the small quantity of an active compound that fulfills a therapeutic role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Mares
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Udrea
- Laser Department, National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, Magurele, 077125, Romania
- Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences Section, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, 50567, Romania
| | - Catalin Buiu
- Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, Politehnica University of Bucharest, Bucharest, 060042, Romania
| | - Angela Staicu
- Laser Department, National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, Magurele, 077125, Romania
| | - Speranta Avram
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095, Bucharest, Romania
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Ambade SS, Gupta VK, Bhole RP, Khedekar PB, Chikhale RV. A Review on Five and Six-Membered Heterocyclic Compounds Targeting the Penicillin-Binding Protein 2 (PBP2A) of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Molecules 2023; 28:7008. [PMID: 37894491 PMCID: PMC10609489 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28207008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a common human pathogen. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections pose significant and challenging therapeutic difficulties. MRSA often acquires the non-native gene PBP2a, which results in reduced susceptibility to β-lactam antibiotics, thus conferring resistance. PBP2a has a lower affinity for methicillin, allowing bacteria to maintain peptidoglycan biosynthesis, a core component of the bacterial cell wall. Consequently, even in the presence of methicillin or other antibiotics, bacteria can develop resistance. Due to genes responsible for resistance, S. aureus becomes MRSA. The fundamental premise of this resistance mechanism is well-understood. Given the therapeutic concerns posed by resistant microorganisms, there is a legitimate demand for novel antibiotics. This review primarily focuses on PBP2a scaffolds and the various screening approaches used to identify PBP2a inhibitors. The following classes of compounds and their biological activities are discussed: Penicillin, Cephalosporins, Pyrazole-Benzimidazole-based derivatives, Oxadiazole-containing derivatives, non-β-lactam allosteric inhibitors, 4-(3H)-Quinazolinones, Pyrrolylated chalcone, Bis-2-Oxoazetidinyl macrocycles (β-lactam antibiotics with 1,3-Bridges), Macrocycle-embedded β-lactams as novel inhibitors, Pyridine-Coupled Pyrimidinones, novel Naphthalimide corbelled aminothiazoximes, non-covalent inhibitors, Investigational-β-lactam antibiotics, Carbapenem, novel Benzoxazole derivatives, Pyrazolylpyridine analogues, and other miscellaneous classes of scaffolds for PBP2a. Additionally, we discuss the penicillin-binding protein, a crucial target in the MRSA cell wall. Various aspects of PBP2a, bacterial cell walls, peptidoglycans, different crystal structures of PBP2a, synthetic routes for PBP2a inhibitors, and future perspectives on MRSA inhibitors are also explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shraddha S. Ambade
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440033, MH, India (P.B.K.)
| | - Vivek Kumar Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, National JALMA Institute for Leprosy & Other Mycobacterial Diseases (ICMR), Agra 282004, UP, India
| | - Ritesh P. Bhole
- Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune 411018, MH, India
- Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune 411018, MH, India
| | - Pramod B. Khedekar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440033, MH, India (P.B.K.)
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Mareş C, Udrea AM, Şuţan NA, Avram S. Bioinformatics Tools for the Analysis of Active Compounds Identified in Ranunculaceae Species. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:842. [PMID: 37375790 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The chemical compounds from extracts of three Ranunculaceae species, Aconitum toxicum Rchb., Anemone nemorosa L. and Helleborus odorus Waldst. & Kit. ex Willd., respectively, were isolated using the HPLC purification technique and analyzed from a bioinformatics point of view. The classes of compounds identified based on the proportion in the rhizomes/leaves/flowers used for microwave-assisted extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction were alkaloids and phenols. Here, the quantifying of pharmacokinetics, pharmacogenomics and pharmacodynamics helps us to identify the actual biologically active compounds. Our results showed that (i) pharmacokinetically, the compounds show good absorption at the intestinal level and high permeability at the level of the central nervous system for alkaloids; (ii) regarding pharmacogenomics, alkaloids can influence tumor sensitivity and the effectiveness of some treatments; (iii) and pharmacodynamically, the compounds of these Ranunculaceae species bind to carbonic anhydrase and aldose reductase. The results obtained showed a high affinity of the compounds in the binding solution at the level of carbonic anhydrases. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors extracted from natural sources can represent the path to new drugs useful both in the treatment of glaucoma, but also of some renal, neurological and even neoplastic diseases. The identification of natural compounds with the role of inhibitors can have a role in different types of pathologies, both associated with studied and known receptors such as carbonic anhydrase and aldose reductase, as well as new pathologies not yet addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cătălina Mareş
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Udrea
- Laser Department, National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, Atomistilor 409, 077125 Magurele, Romania
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest-ICUB, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Anca Şuţan
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Piteşti, 1 Targul din Vale Str., 110040 Pitesti, Romania
| | - Speranţa Avram
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
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Spectroscopic studies on binding of ibuprofen and drotaverine with bovine serum albumin. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2022.114512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Misera A, Łoniewski I, Palma J, Kulaszyńska M, Czarnecka W, Kaczmarczyk M, Liśkiewicz P, Samochowiec J, Skonieczna-Żydecka K. Clinical significance of microbiota changes under the influence of psychotropic drugs. An updated narrative review. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1125022. [PMID: 36937257 PMCID: PMC10014913 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1125022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Relationship between drugs and microbiota is bilateral. Proper composition thus function of microbiota is a key to some medications used in modern medicine. However, there is also the other side of the coin. Pharmacotherapeutic agents can modify the microbiota significantly, which consequently affects its function. A recently published study showed that nearly 25% of drugs administered to humans have antimicrobial effects. Multiple antidepressants are antimicrobials,. and antibiotics with proven antidepressant effects do exist. On the other hand, antibiotics (e.g., isoniaside, minocycline) confer mental phenotype changes, and adverse effects caused by some antibiotics include neurological and psychological symptoms which further supports the hypothesis that intestinal microbiota may affect the function of the central nervous system. Here we gathered comprehensively data on drugs used in psychiatry regarding their antimicrobial properties. We believe our data has strong implications for the treatment of psychiatric entities. Nevertheless the study of ours highlights the need for more well-designed trials aimed at analysis of gut microbiota function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Misera
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Igor Łoniewski
- Department of Biochemical Science, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
- Sanprobi sp. z o.o. sp.k., Szczecin, Poland
| | - Joanna Palma
- Department of Biochemical Science, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Monika Kulaszyńska
- Department of Biochemical Science, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Wiktoria Czarnecka
- Department of Biochemical Science, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Paweł Liśkiewicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jerzy Samochowiec
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Karolina Skonieczna-Żydecka
- Department of Biochemical Science, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
- *Correspondence: Karolina Skonieczna-Żydecka,
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Huang YF, Yang HW, Lin-Shiau SY. Synergistic antibacterial effects of 5-fluorouracil or thioridazine in combination with phytopolyphenols on cultured Porphyromonas gingivalis. J Dent Sci 2022; 18:709-714. [PMID: 37021224 PMCID: PMC10068534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jds.2022.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/purpose 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) is a commonly used anticancer drug. However, the severe oral mucositis induced by 5FU in about 60-70% of patients was a major cause of discontinuous therapy. Since oral dysbiosis induced by 5FU was well correlated with severity of oral mucositis and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.g.) was a keystone pathogen of dysbiosis. Thus, in this study, we aimed to explore the novel regimens of 5FU combined with phytopolyphenols (curcumin, green tea polyphenols) as well as ZnSO4 on antibacterial effects of cultured P.g. growth. In addition, similar regimens containing thioridazine (TRZ) were also tested for their antibacterial efficacy. Materials and methods The synergistic (Combination Index (CI) < 1) antiproliferation and anti-protease efficacies (IC50) of novel regimens on cultured P.g. were evaluated by OD600 and colorimetric method respectively. Results The results obtained indicated that both novel regimens of 5FU and TRZ exhibited potent synergistic antibacterial effects against growth and protease of P.g. Conclusion These novel regimens of 5-FU and TRZ were potent antibacterial agents which merit for further preclinical and clinical trials in management of oral mucositis, cancers and infectious diseases.
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Non-Antibiotic Drug Repositioning as an Alternative Antimicrobial Approach. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060816. [PMID: 35740222 PMCID: PMC9220406 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The worldwide scenario of antibiotic resistance and the falling number of funds for the development of novel antibiotics have led research efforts toward the study of specific cost-effective strategies aimed at discovering drugs against microbial infections. Among the potential options, drug repositioning, which has already exhibited satisfactory results in other medical fields, came out as the most promising. It consists of finding new uses for previously approved medicines and, over the years, many “repurposed drugs” displayed some encouraging in vitro and in vivo results beyond their initial application. The principal theoretical justification for reusing already existing drugs is that they have known mechanisms of action and manageable side effects. Reuse of old drugs is now considered an interesting approach to overcome the drawbacks of conventional antibiotics. The purpose of this review is to offer the reader a panoramic view of the updated studies concerning the repositioning process of different classes of non-antibiotic drugs in the antimicrobial field. Several research works reported the ability of some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants, antipsychotics, and statins to counteract the growth of harmful microorganisms, demonstrating an interesting winning mode to fight infectious diseases caused by antimicrobial resistant bacteria.
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In Silico and Experimental Investigation of the Biological Potential of Some Recently Developed Carprofen Derivatives. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092722. [PMID: 35566083 PMCID: PMC9101252 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficient regioselective bromination and iodination of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) carprofen were achieved by using bromine and iodine monochloride in glacial acetic acid. The novel halogenated carprofen derivatives were functionalized at the carboxylic group by esterification. The regioselectivity of the halogenation reaction was evidenced by NMR spectroscopy and confirmed by X-ray analysis. The compounds were screened for their in vitro antibacterial activity against planktonic cells and also for their anti-biofilm effect, using Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853). The cytotoxic activity of the novel compounds was tested against HeLa cells. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of carprofen derivatives, as well as their toxicity, were established by in silico analyses.
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Simon Á, Tozar T, Smarandache A, Boni M, Stoicu A, Dowson A, van Loon JJWA, Pascu ML. Stability Studies of UV Laser Irradiated Promethazine and Thioridazine after Exposure to Hypergravity Conditions. Molecules 2022; 27:1728. [PMID: 35268828 PMCID: PMC8911845 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals carried into space are subjected to different gravitational conditions. Hypergravity is encountered in the first stage, during spacecraft launching. The stability of medicines represents a critical element of space missions, especially long-duration ones. Therefore, stability studies should be envisaged before the implementation of drugs for future deep space travel, where the available pharmaceuticals would be limited and restocking from Earth would be impossible. Multipurpose drugs should be proposed for this reason, such as phenothiazine derivatives that can be transformed by optical methods into antimicrobial agents. Within this preliminary study, promethazine and thioridazine aqueous solutions were exposed to UV laser radiation that modified their structures and generated a mixture of photoproducts efficient against particular bacteria. Subsequently, they were subjected to 20 g in the European Space Agency's Large Diameter Centrifuge. The aim was to evaluate the impact of hypergravity on the physico-chemical and spectral properties of unirradiated and laser-irradiated medicine solutions through pH assay, UV-Vis/FTIR absorption spectroscopy, and thin-layer chromatography. The results revealed no substantial alterations in centrifuged samples when compared to uncentrifuged ones. Due to their stability after high-g episodes, laser-exposed phenothiazines could be considered for future space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ágota Simon
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics (INFLPR), Laser Department, Atomiștilor 409, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania; (T.T.); (A.S.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
- Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, Atomiștilor 405, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania
| | - Tatiana Tozar
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics (INFLPR), Laser Department, Atomiștilor 409, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania; (T.T.); (A.S.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Adriana Smarandache
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics (INFLPR), Laser Department, Atomiștilor 409, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania; (T.T.); (A.S.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Mihai Boni
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics (INFLPR), Laser Department, Atomiștilor 409, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania; (T.T.); (A.S.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Alexandru Stoicu
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics (INFLPR), Laser Department, Atomiștilor 409, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania; (T.T.); (A.S.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Alan Dowson
- European Space Agency (ESA), European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), TEC-MMG, Keplerlaan 1, 2201 AZ Noordwijk, The Netherlands; (A.D.); (J.J.W.A.v.L.)
| | - Jack J. W. A. van Loon
- European Space Agency (ESA), European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), TEC-MMG, Keplerlaan 1, 2201 AZ Noordwijk, The Netherlands; (A.D.); (J.J.W.A.v.L.)
- Dutch Experiment Support Center (DESC), Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Oral Pathology, Amsterdam Bone Center (ABC), Amsterdam UMC Location VU University Medical Center (VUmc) & Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Gustav Mahlerlaan 3004, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mihail Lucian Pascu
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics (INFLPR), Laser Department, Atomiștilor 409, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania; (T.T.); (A.S.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
- Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, Atomiștilor 405, 077125 Măgurele, Ilfov, Romania
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Nistorescu S, Udrea AM, Badea MA, Lungu I, Boni M, Tozar T, Dumitrache F, Maraloiu VA, Popescu RG, Fleaca C, Andronescu E, Dinischiotu A, Staicu A, Balas M. Low Blue Dose Photodynamic Therapy with Porphyrin-Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Complexes: In Vitro Study on Human Melanoma Cells. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:2130. [PMID: 34959411 PMCID: PMC8705854 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness in photodynamic therapy of iron oxide nanoparticles (γ-Fe2O3 NPs), synthesized by laser pyrolysis technique, functionalized with 5,10,15,20-(Tetra-4-sulfonatophenyl) porphyrin tetraammonium (TPPS) on human cutaneous melanoma cells, after only 1 min blue light exposure. The efficiency of porphyrin loading on the iron oxide nanocarriers was estimated by using absorption and FTIR spectroscopy. The singlet oxygen yield was determined via transient characteristics of singlet oxygen phosphorescence at 1270 nm both for porphyrin functionalized nanoparticles and rose bengal used as standard. The irradiation was performed with a LED (405 nm, 1 mW/cm2) for 1 min after melanoma cells were treated with TPPS functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles (γ-Fe2O3 NPs_TPPS) and incubated for 24 h. Biological tests revealed a high anticancer effect of γ-Fe2O3 NPs_TPPS complexes indi-cated by the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, reduction of cell adhesion, and induction of cell death through ROS generated by TPPS under light exposure. The biological assays were combined with the pharmacokinetic prediction of the porphyrin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Nistorescu
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.B.); (R.G.P.); (A.D.)
| | - Ana-Maria Udrea
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences, Section-ICUB, 050663 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Madalina Andreea Badea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.B.); (R.G.P.); (A.D.)
| | - Iulia Lungu
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Str., 011061 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Mihai Boni
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Tatiana Tozar
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Florian Dumitrache
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
| | | | - Roua Gabriela Popescu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.B.); (R.G.P.); (A.D.)
| | - Claudiu Fleaca
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Ecaterina Andronescu
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Str., 011061 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anca Dinischiotu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.B.); (R.G.P.); (A.D.)
| | - Angela Staicu
- National Institute of Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 409 Atomistilor Str., 077125 Magurele, Romania; (S.N.); (A.-M.U.); (I.L.); (M.B.); (T.T.); (F.D.); (C.F.)
| | - Mihaela Balas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (M.A.B.); (R.G.P.); (A.D.)
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Udrea AM, Gradisteanu Pircalabioru G, Boboc AA, Mares C, Dinache A, Mernea M, Avram S. Advanced Bioinformatics Tools in the Pharmacokinetic Profiles of Natural and Synthetic Compounds with Anti-Diabetic Activity. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1692. [PMID: 34827690 PMCID: PMC8615418 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes represents a major health problem, involving a severe imbalance of blood sugar levels, which can disturb the nerves, eyes, kidneys, and other organs. Diabes management involves several synthetic drugs focused on improving insulin sensitivity, increasing insulin production, and decreasing blood glucose levels, but with unclear molecular mechanisms and severe side effects. Natural chemicals extracted from several plants such as Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica charantia or Ophiopogon planiscapus Niger have aroused great interest for their anti-diabetes activity, but also their hypolipidemic and anti-obesity activity. Here, we focused on the anti-diabetic activity of a few natural and synthetic compounds, in correlation with their pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profiles, especially with their blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. We reviewed studies that used bioinformatics methods such as predicted BBB, molecular docking, molecular dynamics and quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) to elucidate the proper action mechanisms of antidiabetic compounds. Currently, it is evident that BBB damage plays a significant role in diabetes disorders, but the molecular mechanisms are not clear. Here, we presented the efficacy of natural (gymnemic acids, quercetin, resveratrol) and synthetic (TAK-242, propofol, or APX3330) compounds in reducing diabetes symptoms and improving BBB dysfunctions. Bioinformatics tools can be helpful in the quest for chemical compounds with effective anti-diabetic activity that can enhance the druggability of molecular targets and provide a deeper understanding of diabetes mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maria Udrea
- Laser Department, National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 077125 Maurele, Romania; (A.M.U.); (A.D.)
- Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences Section, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, University of Bucharest, 1 B. P. Hașdeu St., 50567 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Gratiela Gradisteanu Pircalabioru
- Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences Section, Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, University of Bucharest, 1 B. P. Hașdeu St., 50567 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anca Andreea Boboc
- “Maria Sklodowska Curie” Emergency Children’s Hospital, 20, Constantin Brancoveanu Bd., 077120 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pediatrics 8, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eroii Sanitari Bd., 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Catalina Mares
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91–95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Andra Dinache
- Laser Department, National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 077125 Maurele, Romania; (A.M.U.); (A.D.)
| | - Maria Mernea
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91–95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Speranta Avram
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91–95 Splaiul Independentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (S.A.)
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12
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Tozar T, Boni M, Andrei IR, Pascu ML, Staicu A. High performance thin layer chromatography-densitometry method based on picosecond laser-induced fluorescence for the analysis of thioridazine and its photoproducts. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1655:462488. [PMID: 34474191 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2021.462488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A densitometry method based on steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence assessments for thioridazine and its photoproducts applied on HPTLC plates has been developed. The excitation source was a picosecond diode laser emitting at 375 nm. This method was used for the analysis of the photoproducts resulted from thioridazine irradiation with 266 nm nanosecond-pulsed laser. The validation of the developed method was performed for thioridazine in terms of linearity, precision, limits of detection and quantification. Furthermore, analysis of the photoproducts of irradiated thioridazine was performed by steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence. The fluorescence spectra and fluorescence lifetime of each photoproduct were obtained and the horizontal chromatograms of fluorescence maxima were generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Tozar
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma, and Radiation Physics, Lasers Department, 409 Atomistilor, 077125 Magurele, Ilfov, Romania
| | - Mihai Boni
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma, and Radiation Physics, Lasers Department, 409 Atomistilor, 077125 Magurele, Ilfov, Romania
| | - Ionut R Andrei
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma, and Radiation Physics, Lasers Department, 409 Atomistilor, 077125 Magurele, Ilfov, Romania
| | - Mihail L Pascu
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma, and Radiation Physics, Lasers Department, 409 Atomistilor, 077125 Magurele, Ilfov, Romania
| | - Angela Staicu
- National Institute for Laser, Plasma, and Radiation Physics, Lasers Department, 409 Atomistilor, 077125 Magurele, Ilfov, Romania.
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Avram S, Stan MS, Udrea AM, Buiu C, Boboc AA, Mernea M. 3D-ALMOND-QSAR Models to Predict the Antidepressant Effect of Some Natural Compounds. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091449. [PMID: 34575524 PMCID: PMC8470101 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The current treatment of depression involves antidepressant synthetic drugs that have a variety of side effects. In searching for alternatives, natural compounds could represent a solution, as many studies reported that such compounds modulate the nervous system and exhibit antidepressant effects. We used bioinformatics methods to predict the antidepressant effect of ten natural compounds with neuroleptic activity, reported in the literature. For all compounds we computed their drug-likeness, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME), and toxicity profiles. Their antidepressant and neuroleptic activities were predicted by 3D-ALMOND-QSAR models built by considering three important targets, namely serotonin transporter (SERT), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (5-HT1A), and dopamine D2 receptor. For our QSAR models we have used the following molecular descriptors: hydrophobicity, electrostatic, and hydrogen bond donor/acceptor. Our results showed that all compounds present drug-likeness features as well as promising ADME features and no toxicity. Most compounds appear to modulate SERT, and fewer appear as ligands for 5-HT1A and D2 receptors. From our prediction, linalyl acetate appears as the only ligand for all three targets, neryl acetate appears as a ligand for SERT and D2 receptors, while 1,8-cineole appears as a ligand for 5-HT1A and D2 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Speranta Avram
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, SplaiulIndependentei, No 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (M.S.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Miruna Silvia Stan
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, SplaiulIndependentei, No 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (M.S.S.); (M.M.)
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest–ICUB, University of Bucharest, 91–95, SplaiulIndependentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Ana Maria Udrea
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest–ICUB, University of Bucharest, 91–95, SplaiulIndependentei, 050095 Bucharest, Romania;
- Laser Department, National Institute for Laser, Plasma and Radiation Physics, 077125 Magurele, Romania
| | - Cătălin Buiu
- Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, Politehnica University of Bucharest, 313 SplaiulIndependenţei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-021-402-9167
| | - Anca Andreea Boboc
- “Maria Sklodowska Curie” Emergency Children’s Hospital, 20, Constantin Brancoveanu Bd., 077120 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pediatrics 8, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, EroiiSanitari Bd., 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Mernea
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, SplaiulIndependentei, No 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (M.S.S.); (M.M.)
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Quinazoline Derivatives Designed as Efflux Pump Inhibitors: Molecular Modeling and Spectroscopic Studies. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26082374. [PMID: 33921798 PMCID: PMC8073189 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Multidrug resistance of bacteria is a worrying concern in the therapeutic field and an alternative method to combat it is designing new efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs). This article presents a molecular study of two quinazoline derivatives, labelled BG1189 and BG1190, proposed as EPIs. In silico approach investigates the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile of BG1189 and BG1190 quinazolines. Molecular docking and predicted ADMET features suggest that BG1189 and BG1190 may represent attractive candidates as antimicrobial drugs. UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy was employed to study the time stability of quinazoline solutions in water or in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), in constant environmental conditions, and to determine the influence of usual storage temperature, normal room lighting and laser radiation (photostability) on samples stability. The effects of irradiation on BG1189 and BG1190 molecules were also assessed through Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. FTIR spectra showed that laser radiation breaks some chemical bonds affecting the substituents and the quinazoline radical of the compounds.
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Stability of Antimicrobial Drug Molecules in Different Gravitational and Radiation Conditions in View of Applications during Outer Space Missions. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26082221. [PMID: 33921448 PMCID: PMC8069917 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of different antimicrobial drugs in terrestrial, microgravity and hypergravity conditions is presented within this review, in connection with their implementation during human space exploration. Drug stability is of utmost importance for applications in outer space. Instabilities may be radiation-induced or micro-/hypergravity produced. The antimicrobial agents used in space may have diminished effects not only due to the microgravity-induced weakened immune response of astronauts, but also due to the gravity and radiation-altered pathogens. In this context, the paper provides schemes and procedures to find reliable ways of fighting multiple drug resistance acquired by microorganisms. It shows that the role of multipurpose medicines modified at the molecular scale by optical methods in long-term space missions should be considered in more detail. Solutions to maintain drug stability, even in extreme environmental conditions, are also discussed, such as those that would be encountered during long-duration space exploratory missions. While the microgravity conditions may not be avoided in space, the suggested approaches deal with the radiation-induced modifications in humans, bacteria and medicines onboard, which may be fought by novel pharmaceutical formulation strategies along with radioprotective packaging and storage.
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Fisher JF, Mobashery S. β-Lactams against the Fortress of the Gram-Positive Staphylococcus aureus Bacterium. Chem Rev 2021; 121:3412-3463. [PMID: 33373523 PMCID: PMC8653850 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c01010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The biological diversity of the unicellular bacteria-whether assessed by shape, food, metabolism, or ecological niche-surely rivals (if not exceeds) that of the multicellular eukaryotes. The relationship between bacteria whose ecological niche is the eukaryote, and the eukaryote, is often symbiosis or stasis. Some bacteria, however, seek advantage in this relationship. One of the most successful-to the disadvantage of the eukaryote-is the small (less than 1 μm diameter) and nearly spherical Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. For decades, successful clinical control of its infection has been accomplished using β-lactam antibiotics such as the penicillins and the cephalosporins. Over these same decades S. aureus has perfected resistance mechanisms against these antibiotics, which are then countered by new generations of β-lactam structure. This review addresses the current breadth of biochemical and microbiological efforts to preserve the future of the β-lactam antibiotics through a better understanding of how S. aureus protects the enzyme targets of the β-lactams, the penicillin-binding proteins. The penicillin-binding proteins are essential enzyme catalysts for the biosynthesis of the cell wall, and understanding how this cell wall is integrated into the protective cell envelope of the bacterium may identify new antibacterials and new adjuvants that preserve the efficacy of the β-lactams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jed F Fisher
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, McCourtney Hall, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Indiana 46556, United States
| | - Shahriar Mobashery
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, McCourtney Hall, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Indiana 46556, United States
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