Synthesis, chemical and enzymatic hydrolysis, and bioavailability evaluation in rabbits of metronidazole amino acid ester prodrugs with enhanced water solubility

Free Radical Inhibition Using a Water-Soluble Curcumin Complex, NDS27: Mechanism Study Using EPR, Chemiluminescence, and Docking

There is a growing interest in the use of natural compounds to tackle inflammatory diseases and cancers. However, most of them face the bioavailability and solubility challenges to reaching cellular compartments and exert their potential biological effects. Polyphenols belong to that class of molecules, and numerous efforts have been made to improve and overcome these problems. Curcumin is widely studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as its use as an anticancer agent. However, its poor solubility and bioavailability are often a source of concern with disappointing or unexpected results in cellular models or in vivo, which limits the clinical use of curcumin as such. Beside nanoparticles and liposomes, cyclodextrins are one of the best candidates to improve the solubility of these molecules. We have used lysine and cyclodextrin to form a water-soluble curcumin complex, named NDS27, in which potential anti-inflammatory effects were demonstrated in cellular and in vivo models. Herein, we investigated for the first time its direct free radicals scavenging activity on DPPH/ABTS assays as well as on hydroxyl, superoxide anion, and peroxyl radical species. The ability of NDS27 to quench singlet oxygen, produced by rose bengal photosensitization, was studied, as was the inhibiting effect on the enzyme-catalyzed oxidation of the co-substrate, luminol analog (L012), using horseradish peroxidase (HRP)/hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) system. Finally, docking was performed to study the behavior of NDS27 in the active site of the peroxidase enzyme.

In Vitro Kinetic Hydrolysis Study of Metronidazole Derivatives with Carvacrol and Eugenol Using Validated RP-HPLC Method

Background:

Prodrugs principle is widely used to improve the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of some active drugs. Much effort was made to develop metronidazole prodrugs to enhance antibacterial activity and or to improve pharmacokinetic properties of the molecule or to lower the adverse effects of metronidazole.

Objective:

In this work, the pharmacokinetic properties of some of monoterpenes and eugenol pro metronidazole molecules that were developed earlier were evaluated in-vitro. The kinetic hydrolysis rate constants and half-life time estimation of the new metronidazole derivatives were calculated using the validated RP-HPLC method.

Method:

Chromatographic analysis was done using Zorbbax Eclipse eXtra Dense Bonding (XDB)-C18 column of dimensions (250 mm, 4.6 mm, 5 μm), at ambient column temperature. The mobile phase was a mixture of sodium dihydrogen phosphate buffer of pH 4.5 and methanol in gradient elution, at 1ml/min flow rate. The method was fully validated according to the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. The hydrolysis process carried out in an acidic buffer pH 1.2 and in an alkaline buffer pH 7.4 in a thermostatic bath at 37ºC.

Results:

The results followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. All metronidazole prodrugs were stable in the acidic pH, while they were hydrolysed in the alkaline buffer within a few hours (6-8 hr). The rate constant and half-life values were calculated, and their values were found to be 0.082- 0.117 hr-1 and 5.9- 8.5 hr., respectively.

Conclusion:

The developed method was accurate, sensitive, and selective for the prodrugs. For most of the prodrugs, the hydrolysis followed pseudo-first-order kinetics; the method might be utilised to conduct an in-vivo study for the metronidazole derivatives with monoterpenes and eugenol.

The surface chemistry of a nanocellulose drug carrier unravelled by MAS-DNP

Cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) are renewable bio-based materials with high specific area, which makes them ideal candidates for multiple emerging applications including for instance on-demand drug release. However, in-depth chemical and structural characterization of the CNF surface chemistry is still an open challenge, especially for low weight percentage of functionalization. This currently prevents the development of efficient, cost-effective and reproducible green synthetic routes and thus the widespread development of targeted and responsive drug-delivery CNF carriers. We show in this work how we use dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) to overcome the sensitivity limitation of conventional solid-state NMR and gain insight into the surface chemistry of drug-functionalized TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibrils. The DNP enhanced-NMR data can report unambiguously on the presence of trace amounts of TEMPO moieties and depolymerized cellulosic units in the starting material, as well as coupling agents on the CNFs surface (used in the heterogeneous reaction). This enables a precise estimation of the drug loading while differentiating adsorption from covalent bonding (∼1 wt% in our case) as opposed to other analytical techniques such as elemental analysis and conductometric titration that can neither detect the presence of coupling agents, nor differentiate unambiguously between adsorption and grafting. The approach, which does not rely on the use of ¹³C/¹⁵N enriched compounds, will be key to further develop efficient surface chemistry routes and has direct implication for the development of drug delivery applications both in terms of safety and dosage.

DNP-enhanced solid-state NMR unravels the surface chemistry of functionalized nanocellulose.

An overview of techniques for multifold enhancement in solubility of poorly soluble drugs

Poor water solubility of newly discovered compounds has become the most common challenge in the drug development process. Indeed, poor solubility is considered as the root cause of failure of drug during drug development phases. Moreover, it has also been reported to be the main reason for bioavailability issues such as poor, inconsistent, incomplete and highly variable bioavailability of the marketed products. As per an estimate, approximately 90% of drug molecules suffer with poor water solubility at early stage and approximately 40% of the marketed drugs have bioavailability problems mainly due to poor water solubility. Solubility enhancement of the newly discovered compounds is primary research area for the pharmaceutical industries and research institutions. The conventional techniques to improve aqueous solubility of drugs employ salt formation, prodrug formation, co-crystallization, complexation, amorphous solid dispersion and use of co-solvent, surfactants or hydrotropic agents. Current advancement in the science and technology has enabled the use of relatively new techniques under the umbrella of nanotechnology. These include the development of nanocrystals, nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, microemulsions, liposomes and nanoparticles to enhance the solubility. This review focuses on the conventional and current approaches of multifold enhancement in the solubility of poorly soluble marketed drugs, including newly discovered compounds.

Comparison of the Utility of RP-TLC Technique and Different Computational Methods to Assess the Lipophilicity of Selected Antiparasitic, Antihypertensive, and Anti-inflammatory Drugs

The aim of this study was to assess the lipophilicity of selected antiparasitic, antihypertensive and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) by means of reversed phase-thin layer chromatography (RP-TLC) as well by using Soczewiński-Wachtmeister's and J. Ościk's equations. The lipophilicity parameters of all examined compounds obtained under various chromatographic systems (i.e., methanol-water and acetone-water, respectively) and those determined on the basis of Soczewiński-Wachtmeister's and Ościk's equations (i.e., R_MWS and R_MWO) were compared with the theoretical ones (e.g., AlogPs, AClogP, milogP, AlogP, MlogP, XlogP2, XlogP3) and the experimental value of the partition coefficient (logP_exp). It was found that the R_MWS parameter may be a good alternative tool in describing the lipophilic nature of biologically active compounds with a high and low lipophilicity (i.e., antihypertensive and antiparasitic drugs). Meanwhile, the R_MWO was more suitable for compounds with a medium lipophilicity (i.e., non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The chromatographic parameter _0(a) can be helpful for the prediction of partition coefficients, i.e., AClogP, XlogP3, as well as logP_exp of examined compounds.

Preclinical study on hypoxic radiosensitizing effects of glycididazole in comparison with those of doranidazole in vitro and in vivo

To overcome the radioresistance of hypoxic cells in solid tumor, numerous types of radiosensitizers specifically against them have been developed. Glycididazole has a chemical structure in which two metronidazole forms are combined, and is widely used as a hypoxic radiosensitizer in China. However, a detailed investigation of its radiosensitizing properties has not been performed. The present study reported a comparative assessment of glycididazole and doranidazole, another hypoxic radiosensitizer. All experiments were performed using the murine squamous cell carcinoma cell line SCCVII. Prior to X-irradiation, the cells were treated with the test drugs at concentrations of 10 mM and 200 mg/kg in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Uptake and their intratumor chemical forms were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Both drugs enhanced the reproductive cell death induced by X-irradiation under hypoxia. However, the growth delay assay of the transplanted tumor revealed the combination of X-irradiation and glycididazole showed a similar antitumor effect to that of X-irradiation alone, whereas doranidazole significantly sensitized the cells to X-irradiation. HPLC analysis revealed that incorporated glycididazole was decomposed to metronidazole and was therefore present at a lower concentration compared with that of doranidazole. The decomposition of glycididazole to metronidazole reduced its radiosensitizing efficiency in vivo. Elucidation of the kinetics of drugs containing metabolizable chemical forms is necessary for the optimization of clinical treatment.

Preparation and evaluation of topical microemulsion system containing metronidazole for remission in rosacea

The aim of this study was to prepare a topical water-in-oil type microemulsion containing metronidazole and to compare its effectiveness with a commercial gel product in the treatment of rosacea. A pseudo-ternary phase diagram (K(m)=2:1) was constructed using lecithin/butanol/isopropyl myristate/water. The microemulsion was chosen from the microemulsion region in the phase diagram. The formulation was a water-in-oil type microemulsion (droplet size: 11.6 nm, viscosity: 457.3 mPa·s, conductivity: 1.5 µs/cm, turbidity: 6.89 NTU) and the addition of the metronidazole did not alter the properties of the system. The release experiment showed that the release rate of metronidazole from the commercial gel product was higher than that of the microemulsion. Stability experiments showed that the metronidazole microemulsion remained stable for at least 6 months; none of the characteristic properties of the microemulsion had changed, the system retained its clarity and there was no sign that crystallization of metronidazole has occurred. Microemulsion was compared to a gel product in a randomized, double-blind, baseline-controlled, split-face clinical trial for the treatment of patients. After the 6-week treatment period there was a statistically significant difference in reduction of the main symptoms of rosacea. Of the patients treated with the microemulsion, 17% experienced complete relief from inflammatory lesions, and 50% from erythema. The microemulsion resulted in complete relief in 38% of the patients with telangiectasia while the commercial product did not provide any relief of telangiectasia symptoms. In conclusion, the microemulsion containing metronidazole was found to be more effective in reducing the symptoms of rosacea compared to the commercial gel product.

Detrimental effect of apoptosis of lymphocytes at an early time point of experimental abdominal sepsis

Background

Apoptosis of lymphocytes is considered a late sequelum in the sepsis cascade. The role of apoptosis of lymphocytes as a driver of final outcome was investigated.

Methods

Abdominal sepsis was induced after cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in 31 rabbits. Blood was sampled at serial time intervals and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated. Apoptosis of lymphocytes and monocytes was measured through flow cytometric analysis. PBMCs were stimulated with LPS and Pam3Cys for the release of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα). Tissue bacterial growth was quantitatively measured. In a second set of experiments, CLP was performed in another 40 rabbits; 20 received single intravenous infusions of ciprofloxacin and of metronidazole 4 hours after surgery.

Results

Animals were divided into two groups based on the percentage of lymphocyte apoptosis at 4 hours after surgery; less than or equal to 32% and more than 32%. Survival of the former was shorter than the latter (p: 0.017). Tissue growth was similar between groups. Apoptosis of lymphocytes and of monocytes was lower in the former group over follow-up. Release of ΤNFα did not differ. The above findings on survival were repeated in the second set of experiments. Administration of antimicrobials prolonged survival of the former group (p: 0.039) but not of the latter group (pNS).

Conclusions

Lymphocyte apoptosis at an early time point of experimental peritonitis is a major driver for death. A lower percentage of apoptosis leads earlier to death. Antimicrobials were beneficial even at that disease state.

Targeted ablation of beta cells in the embryonic zebrafish pancreas using E. coli nitroreductase

In order to generate a zebrafish model of beta cell regeneration, we have expressed an Escherichia coli gene called nfsB in the beta cells of embryonic zebrafish. This bacterial gene encodes a nitroreductase (NTR) enzyme, which can convert prodrugs such as metronidazole (Met) to cytotoxins. By fusing nfsB to mCherry, we can simultaneously render beta cells susceptible to prodrug and visualize Met dependent cell ablation. We show that the neighboring alpha and delta cells are unaffected by prodrug treatment and that ablation is beta cell specific. Following drug removal and 36h of recovery, beta cells regenerate. Using ptf1a morphants, it is clear that this beta cell recovery occurs independently of the presence of the exocrine pancreas. Also, by using photoconvertible Kaede to cell lineage trace and BrdU incorporation to label proliferation, we investigate mechanisms for beta regeneration. Therefore, we have developed a unique resource for the study of beta cell regeneration in a living vertebrate organism, which will provide the opportunity to conduct large-scale screens for pharmacological and genetic modifiers of beta cell regeneration.

Characterisation and in vitro evaluation of bioadhesive liposome gels for local therapy of vaginitis

The purpose of this study was to design and evaluate a new vaginal delivery system for the local treatment of vaginitis. Liposomes containing two commonly applied drugs in the treatment of vaginal infections, namely clotrimazole and metronidazole, were prepared by the proliposome and the polyol dilution methods. Both types of liposomes were characterised and compared for particle size, polydispersity, entrapment efficiency, and tested for in vitro stability in media that mimic human vaginal conditions (buffer, pH 4.5, and vaginal fluid simulant). To achieve application viscosity and to further improve their stability, liposomes containing drugs were incorporated in a bioadhesive gel made of Carbopol 974P NF resin. In vitro release studies have demonstrated that even after 24 h of incubation in vaginal fluid simulant (at 37 degrees C) more than 30% of the originally entrapped clotrimazole (or 50% of metronidazole) was still retained in the gel. Storage stability studies have proved the ability of Carbopol 974P NF gel to preserve original size distributions of incorporated liposomes. All the performed experiments confirm the applicability of bioadhesive liposome gels as a novel delivery system for local therapy of vaginal infections.

PEG-metronidazole conjugates: synthesis, in vitro and in vivo properties

Metronidazole (MTZ), a drug used for the treatment of protozoal infections caused by protozoa and anaerobic microorganisms, was conjugated to linear or branched poly(ethylene glycol) of 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 Da. An ester linkage between polymer and drug was used in the coupling to yield a polymeric prodrug. The modification allowed overcoming the known MTZ solubility problem leading us to obtain a bioconjugate more suitable for parental administration. The conjugates of various molecular weight polymers have been tested in vitro toward chemical degradation and digestive enzymes. It was found that molecular weight and shape of PEG is critical for the prodrugs stability. Good resistance in the stomach acidic media was found and a slow release of the drug in the large intestinal fluid may take place. In vivo studies carried out following i.v. or s.c. administration to mice revealed improved pharmacokinetics properties upon conjugation.

Synthesis and antimicrobial activities of some new nitroimidazole derivatives

In this study, some new nitroimidazole derivatives were obtained from 2-(2-methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethylamine dihydrochloride (4) and 1-(2-bromoethyl)-2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole (5), which were prepared using metronidazole. Compound 4 was reacted with arylisothiocyanates (6) to obtain 1-[2-(2-methyl-5-nitroimidazol-1-yl)ethyl]-3-arylthioureas (7) and the latter with alpha-bromoacetophenones (8) to give 3-[2-(2-methyl-5-nitroimidazol-1-yl)ethyl]-2-arylimino-4-aryl-4-thiazolines (9). Also 1-[2-(2-methyl-5-nitroimidazol-1-yl)ethyl]-2-phenyl-4-arylideneimidazolin-5-ones (11) were prepared by reaction of 4 with 2-phenyl-4-arylidene-5-oxazolones (10). The reaction of the other starting material 5 with 5-arylidenethiazolidin-2,4-dione (12) gave 3-[2-(2-methyl-5-nitroimidazol-1-yl)ethyl]-5-arylidenethiazolidin-2,4-dione (13) derivatives. Structural elucidation of the compounds was performed by IR, 1H-NMR and MASS spectroscopic data and elemental analysis results. Antimicrobial activities of the compounds were examined and moderate activity was obtained.

Current prodrug strategies via membrane transporters/receptors

Prodrug design strategies have been employed to improve the delivery of drugs with undesirable pharmacokinetic properties such as chemical stability and lack of specificity. Targeted prodrug design represents a new strategy for site-directed and efficient drug delivery. Targeting of drugs to transporters and receptors to aid in site-specific carrier-mediated absorption is emerging as a novel and clinically significant approach. Various prodrugs have been successful in achieving the goals of enhanced bioavailability and are, therefore, considered to be an important tool in biopharmaceutics. This review highlights the advances in prodrug design targeted towards membrane transporters/receptors in the past few years.