Quinoline-based antimalarial drugs: a novel class of autophagy inhibitors

Autophagy modulation in cancer therapy: Challenges coexist with opportunities

Autophagy, a crucial intracellular degradation process facilitated by lysosomes, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The elucidation of autophagy key genes and signaling pathways has significantly advanced our understanding of this process and has led to the exploration of autophagy as a promising therapeutic approach. This review comprehensively assesses the latest developments in small molecule modulators targeting autophagy. Moreover, the review delves into the most recent strategies for drug discovery, specifically focusing on selective agents that exploit autophagosomes and lysosomes for targeted protein degradation. Additionally, this article highlights the prevailing challenges and outlines potential future advancements in the field. By amalgamating the cutting-edge knowledge in the field, we aim to offer valuable insights and references for the anti-cancer drug development of autophagy-targeted therapies, thus contributing to the advancement of novel therapeutic interventions.

Role of autophagy in modulating tumor cell radiosensitivity: Exploring pharmacological interventions for glioblastoma multiforme treatment

Autophagy is an innate cellular process characterized by self-digestion, wherein cells degrade or recycle aged proteins, misfolded proteins, and damaged organelles via lysosomal pathways. Its crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, ensuring development and survival is well established. In the context of cancer therapy, autophagy's importance is firmly recognized, given its critical impact on treatment efficacy. Following radiotherapy, several factors can modulate autophagy including parameters related to radiation type and delivery methods. The concomitant use of chemotherapy with radiotherapy further influences autophagy, potentially either enhancing radiosensitivity or promoting radioresistance. This review article discusses some pharmacological agents and drugs capable of modulating autophagy levels in conjunction with radiation in tumor cells, with a focus on those identified as potential radiosensitizers in glioblastoma multiforme treatment.

A Phosphine-Free Air-Stable Mn(II)-Catalyst for Sustainable Synthesis of Quinazolin-4(3H)-ones, Quinolines, and Quinoxalines in Water

The synthesis, characterization, and catalytic application of a new phosphine-free, well-defined, water-soluble, and air-stable Mn(II)-catalyst [Mn(L)(H2O)2Cl](Cl) ([1]Cl) featuring a 1,10-phenanthroline based tridentate pincer ligand, 2-(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-1,10-phenanthroline (L), in dehydrogenative functionalization of alcohols to various N-heterocycles such as quinazolin-4(3H)-ones, quinolines, and quinoxalines are reported here. A wide array of multisubstituted quinazolin-4(3H)-ones were prepared in water under air following two pathways via the dehydrogenative coupling of alcohols with 2-aminobenzamides and 2-aminobenzonitriles, respectively. 2-Aminobenzyl alcohol and ketones bearing active methylene group were used as coupling partners for synthesizing quinoline derivatives, and various quinoxaline derivatives were prepared by coupling vicinal diols and 1,2-diamines. In all cases, the reaction proceeded smoothly using our Mn(II)-catalyst [1]Cl in water under air, affording the desired N-heterocycles in satisfactory yields starting from cheap and readily accessible precursors. Gram-scale synthesis of the compounds indicates the industrial relevance of our synthetic strategy. Control experiments were performed to understand and unveil the plausible reaction mechanism.

Identification of potent BRD4-BD1 inhibitors using classical and steered molecular dynamics based free energy analysis

In the present work a combination of traditional and steered molecular dynamics based techniques were employed to identify potential inhibitors against the human BRD4 protein (BRD4- BD1); an established drug target for multiple illnesses including various malignancies. Quinoline derivatives that were synthesized in-house were tested for their potential as new BRD4-BD1 inhibitors. Initially molecular docking experiments were performed to determine the binding poses of BRD4-BD1 inhibitors. To learn more about the thermodynamics of inhibitor binding to the BRD4-BD1 active site, the Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA) free energy calculations were conducted afterwards. The findings of the MM-PBSA analysis were further reinforced by performing steered umbrella sampling simulations which revealed crucial details about the binding/unbinding process of the most potent quinoline derivatives at the BRD4-BD1 active site. We report a novel quinoline derivative which can be developed into a fully functional BRD4-BD1 inhibitor after experimental validation. The identified compound (4 g) shows better properties than the standard BRD4-BD1 inhibitors considered in the study. The study also highlights the crucial role of Gln78, Phe79, Trp81, Pro82, Phe83, Gln84, Gln85, Val87, Leu92, Leu94, Tyr97, Met105, Cys136, Asn140, Ile146 and Met149 in inhibitor binding. The study provides a possible lead candidate and key amino acids involved in inhibitor recognition and binding at the active site of BRD4-BD1 protein. The findings might be of significance to medicinal chemists involved in the development of potent BRD4-BD1 inhibitors.

Inhibition of autophagy and induction of glioblastoma cell death by NEO214, a perillyl alcohol-rolipram conjugate

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor, exhibiting a high rate of recurrence and poor prognosis. Surgery and chemoradiation with temozolomide (TMZ) represent the standard of care, but, in most cases, the tumor develops resistance to further treatment and the patients succumb to disease. Therefore, there is a great need for the development of well-tolerated, effective drugs that specifically target chemoresistant gliomas. NEO214 was generated by covalently conjugating rolipram, a PDE4 (phosphodiesterase 4) inhibitor, to perillyl alcohol, a naturally occurring monoterpene related to limonene. Our previous studies in preclinical models showed that NEO214 harbors anticancer activity, is able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and is remarkably well tolerated. In the present study, we investigated its mechanism of action and discovered inhibition of macroautophagy/autophagy as a key component of its anticancer effect in glioblastoma cells. We show that NEO214 prevents autophagy-lysosome fusion, thereby blocking autophagic flux and triggering glioma cell death. This process involves activation of MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase) activity, which leads to cytoplasmic accumulation of TFEB (transcription factor EB), a critical regulator of genes involved in the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, and consequently reduced expression of autophagy-lysosome genes. When combined with chloroquine and TMZ, the anticancer impact of NEO214 is further potentiated and unfolds against TMZ-resistant cells as well. Taken together, our findings characterize NEO214 as a novel autophagy inhibitor that could become useful for overcoming chemoresistance in glioblastoma.Abbreviations: ATG: autophagy related; BAFA1: bafilomycin A1; BBB: blood brain barrier; CQ: chloroquine; GBM: glioblastoma; LAMP1: lysosomal associated membrane protein 1; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MGMT: O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; MTORC: MTOR complex; POH: perillyl alcohol; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; TFEB: transcription factor EB; TMZ: temozolomide.

Nanocarrier of α-Tocopheryl Succinate Based on a Copolymer Derivative of (4,7-dichloroquinolin-2-yl)methanol and Its Cytotoxicity against a Breast Cancer Cell Line

In order to improve the water solubility and, therefore, bioavailability and therapeutic activity of anticancer hydrophobic drug α-tocopherol succinate (α-TOS), in this work, copolymers were synthesized via free radicals from QMES (1-[4,7-dichloroquinolin-2-ylmethyl]-4-methacryloyloxyethyl succinate) and VP (N-vinyl-2-pirrolidone) using different molar ratios, and were used to nanoencapsulate and deliver α-TOS into cancer cells MCF-7. QMES monomer was chosen because the QMES pendant group in the polymer tends to hydrolyze to form free 4,7-dichloro-2-quinolinemethanol (QOH), which also, like α-TOS, exhibit anti-proliferative effects on cancerous cells. From the QMES-VP 30:70 (QMES-30) and 40:60 (QMES-40) copolymers obtained, it was possible to prepare aqueous suspensions of empty nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with α-TOS by nanoprecipitation. The diameter and encapsulation efficiency (%EE) of the QMES-30 NPs loaded with α-TOS were 128.6 nm and 52%; while for the QMES-40 NPs loaded with α-TOS, they were 148.8 nm and 65%. The results of the AlamarBlue assay at 72 h of treatment show that empty QMES-30 NPs (without α-TOS) produced a marked cytotoxic effect on MCF-7 breast cancer cells, corresponding to an IC50 value of 0.043 mg mL-1, and importantly, they did not exhibit cytotoxicity against healthy HUVEC cells. Furthermore, NP-QMES-40 loaded with α-TOS were cytotoxic with an IC50 value of 0.076 mg mL-1, demonstrating a progressive release of α-TOS; however, the latter nanoparticles were also cytotoxic to healthy cells in the range of the assayed concentrations. These results contribute to the search for a new polymeric nanocarrier of QOH, α-TOS or other hydrophobic drugs for the treatment of cancer or others diseases treatable with these drugs.

Genomics of severe and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder treated with deep brain stimulation: a preliminary investigation

Individuals with severe and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (trOCD) represent a small but severely disabled group of patients. Since trOCD cases eligible for deep brain stimulation (DBS) probably comprise the most severe end of the OCD spectrum, we hypothesize that they may be more likely to have a strong genetic contribution to their disorder. Therefore, while the worldwide population of DBS-treated cases may be small (~300), screening these individuals with modern genomic methods may accelerate gene discovery in OCD. As such, we have begun to collect DNA from trOCD cases who qualify for DBS, and here we report results from whole exome sequencing and microarray genotyping of our first five cases. All participants had previously received DBS in the bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST), with two patients responding to the surgery and one showing a partial response. Our analyses focused on gene-disruptive rare variants (GDRVs; rare, predicted-deleterious single-nucleotide variants or copy number variants overlapping protein-coding genes). Three of the five cases carried a GDRV, including a missense variant in the ion transporter domain of KCNB1, a deletion at 15q11.2, and a duplication at 15q26.1. The KCNB1 variant (hg19 chr20-47991077-C-T, NM_004975.3:c.1020G>A, p.Met340Ile) causes substitution of methionine for isoleucine in the trans-membrane region of neuronal potassium voltage-gated ion channel KV2.1. This KCNB1 substitution (Met340Ile) is located in a highly constrained region of the protein where other rare missense variants have previously been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The patient carrying the Met340Ile variant responded to DBS, which suggests that genetic factors could potentially be predictors of treatment response in DBS for OCD. In sum, we have established a protocol for recruiting and genomically characterizing trOCD cases. Preliminary results suggest that this will be an informative strategy for finding risk genes in OCD.

Spotlight on 4-substituted quinolines as potential anti-infective agents: Journey beyond chloroquine

Continued emerging resistance of pathogens against the clinically approved candidates and their associated limitations continuously demand newer agents having better potency with a more suited safety profile. Quinoline nuclei containing scaffolds of natural and synthetic origin have been documented for diverse types of pharmacological activities, and a number of drugs are clinically approved. In the present review, we unprecedentedly covered the biological potential of 4-substituted quinoline and elaborated a rationale for its special privilege to afford the significant number of approved clinical drugs, particularly against infectious pathogens. Compounds with 4-substituted quinoline are well documented for antimalarial activity, but in the last two decades, they have been extensively explored for activity against cancer, tuberculosis, and several other pathogens including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other infectious pathogens. In the present study, the anti-infective spectrum of this scaffold is discussed against viruses, mycobacteria, malarial parasites, and fungal and bacterial strains, along with recent updates in this area, with special emphasis on the structure-activity relationship.

Exploring the Dynamical Nature of Intermolecular Hydrogen Bonds in Benzamide, Quinoline and Benzoic Acid Derivatives

The hydrogen bonds properties of 2,6-difluorobenzamide, 5-hydroxyquinoline and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid were investigated by Car-Parrinello and path integral molecular dynamics (CPMD and PIMD), respectively. The computations were carried out in vacuo and in the crystalline phase. The studied complexes possess diverse networks of intermolecular hydrogen bonds (N-H…O, O-H…N and O-H…O). The time evolution of hydrogen bridges gave a deeper insight into bonds dynamics, showing that bridged protons are mostly localized on the donor side; however, the proton transfer phenomenon was registered as well. The vibrational features associated with O-H and N-H stretching were analyzed on the basis of the Fourier transform of the atomic velocity autocorrelation function. The spectroscopic effects of hydrogen bond formation were studied. The PIMD revealed quantum effects influencing the hydrogen bridges providing more accurate free energy sampling. It was found that the N…O or O…O interatomic distances decreased (reducing the length of the hydrogen bridge), while the O-H or N-H covalent bond was elongated, which led to the increase in the proton sharing. Furthermore, Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) was used to give insight into electronic structure parameters. Finally, Symmetry-Adapted Perturbation Theory (SAPT) was employed to estimate the energy contributions to the interaction energy of the selected dimers.

Arginine Deprivation in SCLC: Mechanisms and Perspectives for Therapy

Arginine deprivation has gained increasing traction as a novel and safe antimetabolite strategy for the treatment of several hard-to-treat cancers characterised by a critical dependency on arginine. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) displays marked arginine auxotrophy due to inactivation of the rate-limiting enzyme argininosuccinate synthetase 1 (ASS1), and as a consequence may be targeted with pegylated arginine deiminase or ADI-PEG20 (pegargiminase) and human recombinant pegylated arginases (rhArgPEG, BCT-100 and pegzilarginase). Although preclinical studies reveal that ASS1-deficient SCLC cell lines are highly sensitive to arginine-degrading enzymes, there is a clear disconnect with the clinic with minimal activity seen to date that may be due in part to patient selection. Recent studies have explored resistance mechanisms to arginine depletion focusing on tumor adaptation, such as ASS1 re-expression and autophagy, stromal cell inputs including macrophage infiltration, and tumor heterogeneity. Here, we explore how arginine deprivation may be combined strategically with novel agents to improve SCLC management by modulating resistance and increasing the efficacy of existing agents. Moreover, recent work has identified an intriguing role for targeting arginine in combination with PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors and clinical trials are in progress. Thus, future studies of arginine-depleting agents with chemoimmunotherapy, the current standard of care for SCLC, may lead to enhanced disease control and much needed improvements in long-term survival for patients.

Spectroscopic analysis of 2-(5-mercapto-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-6-methylquinolin-4-ol binding to blood plasma albumin

Binding of 2-(5-mercapto-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-6-methylquinolin-4-ol (C1), a biologically active substance, to bovine blood plasma albumin (BSA) at 293, 298, and 303 K was studied using fluorescence (steady state, synchronous, excitation/emission matrix) and FT-IR spectroscopy methods. The experimental results showed that C1 causes fluorescence quenching of BSA through both static and dynamic quenching mechanisms. The thermodynamic parameters, enthalpy and entropy change, for the static quenching were calculated to be - 35.73 kJ mol-1 and - 35.34 J mol-1 K-1, which indicated that hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions were the predominant intermolecular forces regulating C1-BSA interactions. Distance between donor and acceptor (2.14, 2.26, and 2.30 nm) depending on the temperature, obtained from intrinsic Förster resonance energy transfer calculations, revealed the static quenching mechanism of BSA fluorescence in 0-3.0 × 10-5 mol/dm3 concentration range of C1. The micro-environmental and conformational changes in BSA structure, established by synchronous, excitation/emission matrices and FT-IR spectra showed the changes in the BSA secondary structure.

Graphical abstract

Outbreak of COVID-19: A Detailed Overview and Its Consequences

INTRODUCTION

After the outbreak from Wuhan City of China, COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has become a pandemic worldwide in a very short span of time. The high transmission rate and pathogenicity of this virus have made COVID-19 a major public health concern globally. Basically, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 is the third introduction of a highly infectious human epidemic coronavirus in the twenty-first century. Various research groups have claimed bats to be the natural host of SARS-CoV-2. However, the intermediate host and mode of transmission from bat to humans are not revealed yet. The COVID-19 cost hundreds and thousands of lives and millions are facing the consequences. The objective of this chapter was to analyze the outbreak of COVID-19 and problems faced globally.

METHODS

All published relevant literature from scientific sources and reputed news channels are considered to write the current review.

RESULTS

Generally, elder persons and more particularly people with underlying medical conditions are found to be highly vulnerable to severe infection and prone to fatal outcomes. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment with clinically approved drugs or vaccines to treat this disease. Several research groups have been investigating the efficacies of several antiviral and repurposed drugs. Currently, most of the SARS-COV-2 vaccines are at the preclinical or clinical stage of development. The latest research progress on the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and current status of therapeutic intervention indicates that still a specific drug or vaccine needs to come up for the effective treatment of the pandemic COVID-19. It is observed that various aspects of social life, economic status, and healthcare systems are majorly affected by this pandemic.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that the outbreak of COVID-19 has severely affected each and every field, such as social, scientific, industrial, transport, and medical sectors. Irrespective of tremendous efforts globally, few vaccines are now available for the prevention of the disease. Specific drug is not available publicly for the treatment of COVID-19. Prevention of air pollution that can aggravate COVID-19 has been suggested. Therefore, as of now, social distancing and sanitization practices are the only options available for the prevention of the disease for many.

Wnt and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Survival Pathways as Therapeutic Targets in Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a devastating type of brain tumor, and current therapeutic treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, are palliative at best. The design of effective and targeted chemotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of GBM require a thorough analysis of specific signaling pathways to identify those serving as drivers of GBM progression and invasion. The Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/Akt/mTOR (PAM) signaling pathways are key regulators of important biological functions that include cell proliferation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), metabolism, and angiogenesis. Targeting specific regulatory components of the Wnt/β-catenin and PAM pathways has the potential to disrupt critical brain tumor cell functions to achieve critical advancements in alternative GBM treatment strategies to enhance the survival rate of GBM patients. In this review, we emphasize the importance of the Wnt/β-catenin and PAM pathways for GBM invasion into brain tissue and explore their potential as therapeutic targets.

Impact of Drug Pressure versus Limited Access to Drug in Malaria Control: The Dilemma

Malaria burden has severe impact on the world. Several arsenals, including the use of antimalarials, are in place to curb the malaria burden. However, the application of these antimalarials has two extremes, limited access to drug and drug pressure, which may have similar impact on malaria control, leading to treatment failure through divergent mechanisms. Limited access to drugs ensures that patients do not get the right doses of the antimalarials in order to have an effective plasma concentration to kill the malaria parasites, which leads to treatment failure and overall reduction in malaria control via increased transmission rate. On the other hand, drug pressure can lead to the selection of drug resistance phenotypes in a subpopulation of the malaria parasites as they mutate in order to adapt. This also leads to a reduction in malaria control. Addressing these extremes in antimalarial application can be essential in maintaining the relevance of the conventional antimalarials in winning the war against malaria.

HDAC6 Inhibition Extinguishes Autophagy in Cancer: Recent Insights

Simple Summary

Autophagy is an essential process in cell recycling, and its involvement in cancer has been increasingly recognized in the last few decades. This mechanism acts as a double-edged sword in tumor progression and is known to either block or promote tumorigenesis in a context-specific manner. Its role in determining chemotherapeutic resistance makes it a potential target in cancer treatment. The two autophagic inhibitors hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine are currently used in the clinic but cause several side effects in tumor patients. Since recent studies also show that epigenetic enzymes such as histone deacetylase (HDAC) proteins are able to modulate autophagy, this review focuses on the ability of HDAC6 to actively regulate the autophagic process. We also explore the possibility of using HDAC6 inhibitors as therapeutic agents in adjuvant treatment or in combination with autophagic modulators to trigger this mechanism, thus avoiding the occurrence and effects of chemoresistance.

Abstract

Autophagy is an essential intracellular catabolic mechanism involved in the degradation and recycling of damaged organelles regulating cellular homeostasis and energy metabolism. Its activation enhances cellular tolerance to various stresses and is known to be involved in drug resistance. In cancer, autophagy has a dual role in either promoting or blocking tumorigenesis, and recent studies indicate that epigenetic regulation is involved in its mechanism of action in this context. Specifically, the ubiquitin-binding histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzyme HDAC6 is known to be an important player in modulating autophagy. Epigenetic modulators, such as HDAC inhibitors, mediate this process in different ways and are already undergoing clinical trials. In this review, we describe current knowledge on the role of epigenetic modifications, particularly HDAC-mediated modifications, in controlling autophagy in cancer. We focus on the controversy surrounding their ability to promote or block tumor progression and explore the impact of HDAC6 inhibitors on autophagy modulation in cancer. In light of the fact that targeted drug therapy for cancer patients is attracting ever increasing interest within the research community and in society at large, we discuss the possibility of using HDAC6 inhibitors as adjuvants and/or in combination with conventional treatments to overcome autophagy-related mechanisms of resistance.

From the environment to the cells: An overview on pivotal factors which affect spreading and infection in COVID-19 pandemic

Several factors ranging from environmental risks to the genetics of the virus and that of the hosts, affect the spread of COVID-19. The impact of physicochemical variables on virus vitality and spread should be taken into account in experimental and clinical studies. Another avenue to explore is the effect of diet and its interaction with the immune system on SARS-CoV-2 infection and mortality rate. Past year have witnessed extensive studies on virus and pathophysiology of the COVID-19 disease and the cellular mechanisms of virus spreading. However, our knowledge has not reached a level where we plan an efficient therapeutic approach to prevent the virus entry to the cells or decreasing the spreading and morbidity in severe cases of disease. The risk of infection directly correlates with the control of virus spreading via droplets and aerosol transmission, as well as patient immune system response. A key goal in virus restriction and transmission rate is to understand the physicochemical structure of aerosol and droplet formation, and the parameters that affect the droplet-borne and airborne in different environmental conditions. The lifetime of droplets on different surfaces is described based on the contact angle. Hereby, we recommend regular use of high-quality face masks in high temperature and low humidity conditions. However, in humid and cold weather conditions, wearing gloves and frequently hand washing, gain a higher priority. Additionally, social distancing rules should be respected in all aforementioned conditions. We will also discuss different routes of SARS-CoV-2 entry into the cells and how multiple genetic factors play a role in the spread of the virus. Given the role of environmental and nutritional factors, we discuss and recommend some strategies to prevent the disease and protect the population against COVID-19. Since an effective vaccine can prevent the transmission of communicable diseases and abolish pandemics, we added a brief review of candidate SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

Course of papilloedema following surgical decompression in CHIARI I malformation with raised intracranial pressure

Arnold-Chiari malformations (ACM) is a rare congenital hindbrain maldevelopment, leading to downward herniation of the cerebellar tonsils. Clinical features relates to cerebrospinal fluid disturbances, manifesting as symptoms of headaches, pseudotumour-like episodes, cranial nerve palsies and cerebellar dysfunction. Ocular manifestations includes varying ophthalmoloplegia and accommodation abnormalities. Papilloedema has been rarely implicated and remains an uncommon feature of ACM. We report a case of ACM who developed papilloedema and visual disturbance, that was successfully treated with suboccipital decompression. The presentation of patients with ACM-I and papilloedema unaccompanied by localising signs may resemble that of IIH. Neuroimaging with special attention to the craniocervical junction in saggital and transverse planes is crucial. Surgical decompression of the posterior fossa seems to improve headache symptoms and clinical signs of papilloedema.

Autophagy inhibition is the next step in the treatment of glioblastoma patients following the Stupp era

It has now been nearly 15 years since the last major advance in the treatment of patients with glioma. "The addition of temozolomide to radiotherapy for newly diagnosed glioblastoma resulted in a clinically meaningful and statistically significant survival benefit with minimal additional toxicity". Autophagy is primarily a survival pathway, literally self-eating, that is utilized in response to stress (such as radiation and chemotherapy), enabling clearance of effete protein aggregates and multimolecular assemblies. Promising results have been observed in patients with glioma for over a decade now when autophagy inhibition with chloroquine derivatives coupled with conventional therapy. The application of autophagy inhibitors, the role of immune cell-induced autophagy, and the potential role of novel cellular and gene therapies, should now be considered for development as part of this well-established regimen.

Hydroxychloroquine in COVID-19: therapeutic promises, current status, and environmental implications

The outbreak of novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has affected the entire world with its infectious spread and mortality rate. The severe cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are characterized by hypoxia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. In the absence of any specific treatment, just the preventive and supportive care options are available. Therefore, much focus is given to assess the available therapeutic options not only to avoid acute respiratory failure and hypoxia but also to reduce the viral load to control the severity of the disease. The antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is among the much-discussed drugs for the treatment and management of COVID-19 patients. This article reviews the therapeutic potential of HCQ in the treatment of COVID-19 based on the available in vitro and clinical evidence, current status of registered HCQ-based clinical trials investigating therapeutic options for COVID-19, and environmental implications of HCQ.

Coronavirus and its terrifying inning around the globe: The pharmaceutical cares at the main frontline

A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is an acute life-threatening disease, emerged in China, which imposed a potentially immense toll in terms of public health emergency due to high infection rate and has a devastating economic impact that attracts the world's attention. After that, on January 30, 2020, it was officially declared as a global pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO). The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) recognized it as a Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the disease named Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19). Several studies have been ameliorated the active role of COVID-19 transmission, etiology, pathogenicity, and mortality rate as serious impact on human life. The symptoms of this disease may include fever, fatigue, cough and some peoples are severely prone to gastrointestinal infection. The elderly and seriously affected peoples are likely concerned with serious outcomes. In this review, we mainly aimed to provide a benchmark summary of the silent characteristics and findings of some candidates for antiviral drugs and immunotherapies such as plasma therapy, cytokine therapy, antibodies, intravenous immunoglobulin, and pharmaceutical health concerns that are related to this disease.

What the dental practitioner needs to know about pharmaco-therapeutic modalities of COVID-19 treatment: A review

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Several pharmacotherapeutic methods have been used for the treatment of COVID-19 with varying degrees of success. No definitive treatment or vaccine has been officially approved to-date. This review aimed to highlight COVID-19 pharmacotherapeutic agents that are relevant to dental practice in terms of their clinical indications in COVID-19 and dental practice, as well as their adverse effects as they impact the dental patient.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Systematic search was performed using the following keywords combinations: Pharmacotherapy AND COVID-19 OR Pharmacotherapy AND SARS-CoV-2 OR Treatment AND COVID-19. Studies were categorized according to the type of pharmacotherapy used. Pharmacotherapeutic agents were extracted and only those relevant to dental practice were included for review.

RESULTS

For analysis, a total of 79 clinical trials research articles were included that included COVID-19 pharmacotherapeutic agents relevant to dental practice. Those were analgesics (paracetamol; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents); antibiotics (azithromycin, doxycycline, metronidazole); antivirals (penciclovir); and immunomodulatory agents (hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids). While some COVID-19 drugs are less relevant to dental practice, as antivirals and hydroxychloroquine, their association with long-term adverse effects requires adequate knowledge among dental practitioners.

CONCLUSION

Many of COVID-19 pharmacotherapeutic agents are used to treat oral diseases particularly orofacial pain and inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, some of these drugs may induce adverse effects that complicate dental treatment. Thorough knowledge of COVID-19 therapy and its dental implications is essential for dental practitioners, and is expected to contribute to a better understanding and effective utilization of these therapeutic agents.

Statins in COVID-19 Therapy

Inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3methylgultaryl-coenzyme A reductase (statins) are one of the main groups of drugs used in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases worldwide. They are widely available, cheap, and well-tolerated. Based on statins’ pleiotropic properties, including improvement of endothelial dysfunction, antioxidant properties, atherosclerotic plaque stabilization, and inhibition of inflammatory responses, it can be hypothesized that the use of statins, at least as an adjuvant in antiviral therapy, may be justified. All these effects might be especially beneficial in patients with COVID-19, suffering from endothelial dysfunction, microvascular and macrovascular thrombosis, and cytokine storm. Here, we review the recent data regarding the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 activity in host cells, proposed COVID-19 therapy, the pleiotropic activity of statins, and statins in clinical trials in respiratory infections. According to the guidelines of the European and American Cardiac Societies, in patients with cardiovascular disease or high cardiovascular risk with concomitant COVID-19 it is recommended to continue statin treatment. However, the initiation of statin therapy de novo in COVID-19 treatment should only be done as part of a clinical trial.

COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Current Challenges and Health Concern

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in Wuhan, China, was triggered and unfolded quickly throughout the globe by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The new virus, transmitted primarily through inhalation or contact with infected droplets, seems very contagious and pathogenic, with an incubation period varying from 2 to 14 days. The epidemic is an ongoing public health problem that challenges the present global health system. A worldwide social and economic stress has been observed. The transitional source of origin and its transport to humans is unknown, but speedy human transportation has been accepted extensively. The typical clinical symptoms of COVID-19 are almost like colds. With case fatality rates varying from 2 to 3 percent, a small number of patients may experience serious health problems or even die. To date, there is a limited number of antiviral agents or vaccines for the treatment of COVID-19. The occurrence and pathogenicity of COVID-19 infection are outlined and comparatively analyzed, given the outbreak's urgency. The recent developments in diagnostics, treatment, and marketed vaccine are discussed to deal with this viral outbreak. Now the scientist is concerned about the appearance of several variants over the globe and the efficacy of the vaccine against these variants. There is a need for consistent monitoring of the virus epidemiology and surveillance of the ongoing variant and related disease severity.

Caffeine Inhibits Growth of Temozolomide-Treated Glioma via Increasing Autophagy and Apoptosis but Not via Modulating Hypoxia, Angiogenesis, or Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Rats

Thirty rats with glioma were divided into control group, temozolomide (TMZ) group (TMZ 30 mg/kg once daily for 5 day), and TMZ plus Caffeine group (TMZ 30 mg/kg once daily for 5 day and caffeine 100 mg/kg once daily for 2 weeks). The relative tumor fold and expression of hypoxia-induced factor-1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), LC-3A/B, apoptosis-inducing factor-1 (AIF-1), and cleaved caspase three were compared. The relative tumor fold of TMZ plus Caffeine group was lower significantly than that of TMZ group at day 14. HIF-1α, VEGF, NRP-1, and CHOP expressions were not significantly different in the three groups. The LC-3A/B expression of TMZ plus Caffeine group was higher significantly than that of the control group and TMZ group. The AIF expressions of TMZ group and TMZ plus Caffeine group were higher significantly than that of the control group. The caspase-3 expression of TMZ plus Caffeine group was higher significantly than that of the control group and TMZ group. In conclusions, the inhibitory effect of caffeine on TMZ-treated glioma might be associated with increasing expressions of autophagy- and apoptosis-related genes.

The 15-Months Clinical Experience of SARS-CoV-2: A Literature Review of Therapies and Adjuvants

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus responsible for the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) that emerged in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, and rapidly spread worldwide, with a daily increase in confirmed cases and infection-related deaths. The World Health Organization declared a pandemic on the 11th of March 2020. COVID-19 presents flu-like symptoms that become severe in high-risk medically compromised subjects. The aim of this study was to perform an updated overview of the treatments and adjuvant protocols for COVID-19.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of databases was performed (MEDLINE PubMed, Google Scholar, UpToDate, Embase, and Web of Science) using the keywords: "COVID-19", "2019-nCoV", "coronavirus" and "SARS-CoV-2" (date range: 1 January 2019 to 31st October 2020), focused on clinical features and treatments.

RESULTS

The main treatments retrieved were antivirals, antimalarials, convalescent plasma, immunomodulators, corticosteroids, anticoagulants, and mesenchymal stem cells. Most of the described treatments may provide benefits to COVID-19 subjects, but no one protocol has definitively proven its efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

While many efforts are being spent worldwide in research aimed at identifying early diagnostic methods and evidence-based effective treatments, mass vaccination is thought to be the best option against this disease in the near future.

A review on COVID-19 for medical students

It has not been very long since the SARS-CoV 2002 and MERS-CoV 2012 epidemics. Yet again, nature has introduced SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19, a highly virulent strain of the coronavirus that has its origin in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Primarily, a zoonotic infection, the virus probably found its way to humans through infected wild bats sold in the Wuhan local market. What makes the virus virulent, is its ability to infect multiple people at once through single index case. This has led to inability to contain the virus with ease posing a significant threat to national and international health-care resources and economies. The objective of this review is to highlight the key features of the novel CoV-19 infection as per existing data for better understanding of the disease.

Potential therapeutic compounds from traditional Chinese medicine targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress to alleviate rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease which affects about 0.5-1% of people with symptoms that significantly impact a sufferer's lifestyle. The cells involved in propagating RA tend to display pro-inflammatory and cancer-like characteristics. Medical drug treatment is currently the main avenue of RA therapy. However, drug options are limited due to severe side effects, high costs, insufficient disease retardation in a majority of patients, and therapeutic effects possibly subsiding over time. Thus there is a need for new drug therapies. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, a condition due to accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER, and subsequent cellular responses have been found to be involved in cancer and inflammatory pathologies, including RA. ER stress protein markers and their modulation have therefore been suggested as therapeutic targets, such as GRP78 and CHOP, among others. Some current RA therapeutic drugs have been found to have ER stress-modulating properties. Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) frequently use natural products that affect multiple body and cellular targets, and several medicines and/or their isolated compounds have been found to also have ER stress-modulating capabilities, including TCMs used in RA treatment by Chinese Medicine practitioners. This review encourages, in light of the available information, the study of these RA-treating, ER stress-modulating TCMs as potential new pharmaceutical drugs for use in clinical RA therapy, along with providing a list of other ER stress-modulating TCMs utilized in treatment of cancers, inflammatory diseases and other diseases, that have potential use in RA treatment given similar ER stress-modulating capacity.

Subcellular Localisation of a Quinoline-Containing Fluorescent Cyclometallated IrIII Complex in Plasmodium falciparum

A fluorescent analogue of a previously synthesised N,N-chelated Ir^III complex was prepared by coordination of the organic ligand to an extrinsic bis(2-phenylpyridine)iridium(III) fluorophore. This cyclometallated Ir^III complex in itself displays good, micromolar activity against the chloroquine-sensitive NF54 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. Live-cell confocal microscopy found negligible localisation of the fluorescent complex within the digestive vacuole of the parasite. This eliminated the haem detoxification pathway as a potential mechanism of action. Similarly, no localisation of the complex within the parasitic nucleus was found, thus suggesting that this complex probably does not interfere with the DNA replication process. A substantial saturation of fluorescence from the complex was found near phospholipid structures such as the plasma and nuclear membranes but not in neutral lipid bodies. This indicates that an association with these membranes, or organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum or branched mitochondrion, could be essential to the efficacies of these types of antimalarial compounds.

Targeting Lipid Rafts as a Strategy Against Coronavirus

Lipid rafts are functional membrane microdomains containing sphingolipids, including gangliosides, and cholesterol. These regions are characterized by highly ordered and tightly packed lipid molecules. Several studies revealed that lipid rafts are involved in life cycle of different viruses, including coronaviruses. Among these recently emerged the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The main receptor for SARS-CoV-2 is represented by the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2), although it also binds to sialic acids linked to host cell surface gangliosides. A new type of ganglioside-binding domain within the N-terminal portion of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was identified. Lipid rafts provide a suitable platform able to concentrate ACE-2 receptor on host cell membranes where they may interact with the spike protein on viral envelope. This review is focused on selective targeting lipid rafts components as a strategy against coronavirus. Indeed, cholesterol-binding agents, including statins or methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD), can affect cholesterol, causing disruption of lipid rafts, consequently impairing coronavirus adhesion and binding. Moreover, these compounds can block downstream key molecules in virus infectivity, reducing the levels of proinflammatory molecules [tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6], and/or affecting the autophagic process involved in both viral replication and clearance. Furthermore, cyclodextrins can assemble into complexes with various drugs to form host-guest inclusions and may be used as pharmaceutical excipients of antiviral compounds, such as lopinavir and remdesivir, by improving bioavailability and solubility. In conclusion, the role of lipid rafts-affecting drugs in the process of coronavirus entry into the host cells prompts to introduce a new potential task in the pharmacological approach against coronavirus.

Insights of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic: a current review

COVID-19, a pandemic of the 21st century caused by novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 was originated from China and shallowed world economy and human resource. The medical cures via herbal treatments, antiviral drugs, and vaccines still in progress, and studying rigorously. SARS-CoV-2 is more virulent than its ancestors due to evolution in the spike protein(s), mediates viral attachment to the host's membranes. The SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding spike domain associates itself with human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptors. It causes respiratory ailments with irregularities in the hepatic, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems, as reported in humans suffering from COVID-19 and reviewed in the present article. There are several approaches, have been put forward by many countries under the world health organization (WHO) recommendations and some trial drugs were introduced for possible treatment of COVID-19, such as Lopinavir or Ritonavir, Arbidol, Chloroquine (CQ), Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and most important Remdesivir including other like Tocilizumab, Oritavancin, Chlorpromazine, Azithromycin, Baricitinib, etc. RT-PCR is the only and early detection test available besides the rapid test kit (serodiagnosis) used by a few countries due to unreasonable causes. Development of vaccine by several leader of pharmaceutical groups still under trial or waiting for approval for mass inoculation. Management strategies have been evolved by the recommendations of WHO, specifically important to control COVID-19 situations, in the pandemic era. This review will provide a comprehensive collection of studies to support future research and enhancement in our wisdom to combat COVID-19 pandemic and to serve humanity.

SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19): Cellular and biochemical properties and pharmacological insights into new therapeutic developments

COVID-19 caused by SARS-COV-2 first appeared in the Wuhan City of China and began to spread rapidly among people. Rapid progression of the outbreak has led to a major global public health problem of a potentially fatal disease. On January 30, 2020, WHO declared the pandemic as the sixth public health emergency of the world. Upon this, the whole country has started to take the necessary precautions. The new coronavirus uses membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to enter into the cells, such as SARS-CoV, and mostly affects the respiratory tract. Symptoms of COVID-19 patients include fever (93%), fatigue (70%), cough (70%), anorexia (40%) and dyspnoea (34.5%). The elderly and people with underlying chronic diseases are more susceptible to infection and higher mortality. Currently, a large number of drugs and vaccines studies are ongoing. In this review, we discussed the virology, epidemiological data, the replication of the virus, and its relationship with cardiovascular diseases on COVID-19 pandemics, treatment and vaccines. Thereby, this study aims to neatly present scientific data in light of many regarding literature that can be a clue for readers who research this disease prevention and treatment. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: This review summarized current information on COVID-19 (epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical, laboratory, cardiovascular diseases, ACE2 and pharmacological agents) for researchers and reveals guiding data for researchers, especially in the field of cardiovascular system, pharmacology, dysregulation of cellular function in disease, molecular and cell biology and physiology in the regulation of tissue function in health and disease.

Dual Roles of Autophagy and Their Potential Drugs for Improving Cancer Therapeutics

Autophagy is a major catabolic process that maintains cell metabolism by degrading damaged organelles and other dysfunctional proteins via the lysosome. Abnormal regulation of this process has been known to be involved in the progression of pathophysiological diseases, such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Although the mechanisms for the regulation of autophagic pathways are relatively well known, the precise regulation of this pathway in the treatment of cancer remains largely unknown. It is still complicated whether the regulation of autophagy is beneficial in improving cancer. Many studies have demonstrated that autophagy plays a dual role in cancer by suppressing the growth of tumors or the progression of cancer development, which seems to be dependent on unknown characteristics of various cancer types. This review summarizes the key targets involved in autophagy and malignant transformation. In addition, the opposing tumor-suppressive and oncogenic roles of autophagy in cancer, as well as potential clinical therapeutics utilizing either regulators of autophagy or combinatorial therapeutics with anti-cancer drugs have been discussed.

Emergence and molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 and HIV to target host cells and potential therapeutics

The emergence of a new coronavirus, in around late December 2019 which had first been reported in Wuhan, China has now developed into a massive threat to global public health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has named the disease caused by the virus as COVID-19 and the virus which is the culprit was renamed from the initial novel respiratory 2019 coronavirus to SARS-CoV-2. The person-to-person transmission of this virus is ongoing despite drastic public health mitigation measures such as social distancing and movement restrictions implemented in most countries. Understanding the source of such an infectious pathogen is crucial to develop a means of avoiding transmission and further to develop therapeutic drugs and vaccines. To identify the etiological source of a novel human pathogen is a dynamic process that needs comprehensive and extensive scientific validations, such as observed in the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases. In this context, this review is devoted to understanding the taxonomic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and HIV. Herein, we discuss the emergence and molecular mechanisms of both viral infections. Nevertheless, no vaccine or therapeutic drug is yet to be approved for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2, although it is highly likely that new effective medications that target the virus specifically will take years to establish. Therefore, this review reflects the latest repurpose of existing antiviral therapeutic drug choices available to combat SARS-CoV-2.

Approaches and advances in the development of potential therapeutic targets and antiviral agents for the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection

Virus onslaughts continue to spread fear and cause rampage across the world every now and then. The twenty first century is yet again witnessing a gross global pandemic, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Globally no vaccines or drug specific to COVID-19 is available. Corona viruses have been in mutual relationship with humans and other hosts over many decades though aggressive zoonotic strains have caused havoc. Zoonotic emergent corona viruses prior to SARS-COV-2 included severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), with the former leading to aggressive infectious spread and the later with high mortality rate. Although they emerged in the early period of the twenty first century, resilient biomedical and expertise in pharmaceutical domain could not appropriate any proprietary therapeutics. Studies envisaged towards curtailing their spread employed different stages of the virus life cycle with all zoonotic coronaviruses (CoVs) sharing genomic and structural similarities. Hence the strategies against SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV could prove effective against the recent outbreak of SAR-CoV-2. The review unravels key events involved in the lifecycle of SARS-CoV-2 while highlighting the possible avenues of therapy. The review also holds the scope in better understanding a broad-spectrum antivirals, monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors against viral glycoproteins, host cell receptor, viral mRNA synthesis, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and viral proteases in order to design and develop antiviral drugs for SARS-CoV-2.

COVID-19: Targeting Proteases in Viral Invasion and Host Immune Response

An acute respiratory disorder (COVID-19) that accelerated across the globe has been found to be caused by a novel strain of coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-2). The absence of a specific antiviral drug or vaccination has promoted the development of immediate therapeutic responses against SARS-CoV-2. As increased levels of plasma chemokines and, cytokines and an uncontrolled influx of inflammatory cells were observed in lethal cases, it was concluded that the severity of the infection corresponded with the imbalanced host immunity against the virus. Tracing back the knowledge acquired from SERS and MERS infections, clinical evidence suggested similar host immune reactions and host ACE2 receptor-derived invasion by SARS-CoV-2. Further studies revealed the integral role of proteases (TMPRSS2, cathepsins, plasmin, etc.) in viral entry and the immune system. This review aims to provide a brief review on the latest research progress in identifying the potential role of proteases in SARS-CoV-2 viral spread and infection and combines it with already known information on the role of different proteases in providing an immune response. It further proposes a multidisciplinary clinical approach to target proteases specifically, through a combinatorial administration of protease inhibitors. This predictive review may help in providing a perspective to gain deeper insights of the proteolytic web involved in SARS-CoV-2 viral invasion and host immune response.

Inhibition of Radiation and Temozolomide-Induced Glioblastoma Invadopodia Activity Using Ion Channel Drugs

Simple Summary

Glioblastoma accounts for approximately 40–50% of all primary brain cancers and is a highly aggressive cancer that rapidly disseminates within the surrounding normal brain. Dynamic actin-rich protrusions known as invadopodia facilitate this invasive process. Ion channels have also been linked to a pro-invasive phenotype and may contribute to facilitating invadopodia activity in cancer cells. The aim of our study was to screen ion channel-targeting drugs for their cytotoxic efficacy and potential anti-invadopodia properties in glioblastoma cells. We demonstrated that the targeting of ion channels in glioblastoma cells can lead to a reduction in invadopodia activity and protease secretion. Importantly, the candidate drugs exhibited a significant reduction in radiation and temozolomide-induced glioblastoma cell invadopodia activity. These findings support the proposed pro-invasive role of ion channels via invadopodia in glioblastoma, which may be ideal therapeutic targets for the treatment of glioblastoma patients.

Abstract

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and malignant type of primary brain cancer. The rapid invasion and dissemination of tumor cells into the surrounding normal brain is a major driver of tumor recurrence, and long-term survival of GBM patients is extremely rare. Actin-rich cell membrane protrusions known as invadopodia can facilitate the highly invasive properties of GBM cells. Ion channels have been proposed to contribute to a pro-invasive phenotype in cancer cells and may also be involved in the invadopodia activity of GBM cells. GBM cell cytotoxicity screening of several ion channel drugs identified three drugs with potent cell killing efficacy: flunarizine dihydrochloride, econazole nitrate, and quinine hydrochloride dihydrate. These drugs demonstrated a reduction in GBM cell invadopodia activity and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) secretion. Importantly, the treatment of GBM cells with these drugs led to a significant reduction in radiation/temozolomide-induced invadopodia activity. The dual cytotoxic and anti-invasive efficacy of these agents merits further research into targeting ion channels to reduce GBM malignancy, with a potential for future clinical translation in combination with the standard therapy.

Update of the current knowledge on genetics, evolution, immunopathogenesis, and transmission for coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19)

In December 2019, an acute respiratory disease caused by novel species of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in China and has spread throughout the world. On 11th March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) a pandemic, severe coronavirus-mediated human disease. Based on genomic and phylogenetic studies, SARS-CoV-2 might originate from bat coronaviruses and infects humans directly or through intermediate zoonotic hosts. However, the exact origin or the host intermediate remains unknown. Genetically, SARS-CoV-2 is similar to several existing coronaviruses, particularly SARS-CoV, but differs by silent and non-silent mutations. The virus uses different transmission routes and targets cells and tissues with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) protein, which makes it contagious. COVID-19 shares both the main clinical features and excessive/dysregulated cell responses with the two previous Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS) epidemics. In this review, we provide an update of the current knowledge on the COVID-19 pandemic. Gaining a deeper understanding of SARS-CoV-2 structure, transmission routes, and molecular responses, will assist in the prevention and control of COVID-19 outbreaks in the future.

Ligand-based discovery of small molecules suppressing cancer cell proliferation via autophagic flux inhibition

Autophagy is a conserved self-degradation system closely related to cancer progression. Small molecule inhibitors of autophagy have proven to be efficient tools in cancer therapy and are in high demand. Here we report the discovery of two compounds (LZ02/01) capable of suppressing cancer cell proliferation via inhibiting autophagy flux and promoting apoptosis. Potential autophagy inhibitors were selected based on the pharmacophore model derived from the structures of known autophagy inhibitors. LZ02/01-mediated autophagy flux disruption and apoptosis promotion in breast and hepatocellular carcinoma cells (MCF-7 and Hep3B) were examined using a combination of molecular methods in vitro and in vivo. The synergistic tumor-suppressing effects of LZ02 and chloroquine were validated by adopting a xenograft mice model of human breast cancer. Two potential inhibitors (LZ02/01) targeting an autophagy pathway were discovered from the Enamine database. In both MCF-7 and Hep3B cells, LZ02 and LZ01 had the effect of causing the co-occurrence of autophagic flux inhibition and apoptosis induction, robustly suppressing the growth, proliferation, and cell cycle progression. Further tests revealed that FoxO3a and its downstream target genes regulating autophagy, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression were activated and overexpressed, suggesting such effects of LZ02/01 on autophagy and apoptosis were associated with the activation and overexpression of FoxO3a. In addition, LZ02/01-mediated apoptosis is not independent; it was verified to be promoted by autophagic flux inhibition. Meanwhile, synergistic effects on tumor growth reduction were detected in the xenograft mice model of human breast cancer simultaneously treated with LZ02 and chloroquine. Our findings suggest that LZ01 and LZ02 are potent in suppressing cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth through autophagic flux inhibition and apoptosis promotion. The synergistic anti-cancer effects of LZ02 with chloroquine may provide a rational basis for prospective cancer therapy. KEY MESSAGES: A ligand-based pharmacophore model of high quality is constructed to query hits and two novel scaffold lead compounds LZ01/02 were identified by high-throughput virtual screening. LZ01/02 works to inhibit autophagic flux by attenuating lysosome function. LZ01/02 induces apoptosis through autophagic flux inhibition and apoptosis is the main mechanism to inhibit MCF-7 and Hep3B cancer cell proliferation. The synergistic antitumor growth effects of LZ02 and chloroquine are verified in human xenograft model.

Investigation on the impacts of COVID-19 quarantine on society and environment: Preventive measures and supportive technologies

The present outbreak of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, epicentered in China in December 2019, has spread to many other countries. The entire humanity has a vital responsibility to tackle this pandemic and the technologies are being helpful to them to a greater extent. The purpose of the work is to precisely bring scientific and general awareness to the people all around the world who are currently fighting the war against COVID-19. It's visible that the number of people infected is increasing day by day and the medical community is tirelessly working to maintain the situation under control. Other than the negative effects caused by COVID-19, it is also equally important for the public to understand some of the positive impacts it has directly or indirectly given to society. This work emphasizes the various impacts that are created on society as well as the environment. As a special additive, some important key areas are highlighted namely, how the modernized technologies are aiding the people during the period of social distancing. Some effective technological implications carried out by both information technology and educational institutions are highlighted. There are also several steps taken by the state government and central government in each country in adopting the complete lockdown rule. These steps are taken primarily to prevent the people from COVID-19 impact. Moreover, the teachings we need to learn from the quarantine situation created to prevent further spread of this global pandemic is discussed in brief and the importance of carrying them to the future. Finally, the paper also elucidates the general preventive measures that have to be taken to prevent this deadly coronavirus, and the role of technology in this pandemic situation has also been discussed.

COVID-19: Transmission, prevention, and potential therapeutic opportunities

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), remains a global challenge. Despite intense research efforts worldwide, an effective vaccine and viable treatment options have eluded investigators. Therefore, infection prevention, early viral detection and identification of successful treatment protocols provide the best approach in controlling disease spread. In this review, current therapeutic options, preventive methods and transmission routes of COVID-19 are discussed.

Pharmacological Advances of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine: From Antimalarials to Investigative Therapies in COVID-19

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, numerous existing chemicals have been screened for antiviral potential against the emerging coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, after exhibiting potent in vitro efficacy, have gained tremendous attention. Both therapeutics are derivatives of natural alkaloid quinine and were first synthesized to treat malaria. Thereafter, the pharmaceutical applications of the agents have expanded to many new areas. In this article, the medicinal history and pharmacological activities of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are summarized. Antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral properties, and therapeutic potential in the emerging viral infection COVID-19 are discussed. Pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, and toxicities are reviewed.

Anti-malarial Drugs Reduce Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation via Activation of AMPK and Inhibition of Smad3 Signaling

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 2 anti-malarial drugs, chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), on inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation both in vivo and in vitro via Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation.

Methods

Protein and mRNA levels were determined by western blot analysis and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in primary rat VSMCs treated with CQ and HCQ, respectively. Cell proliferation was measured by flow cytometry and cell counting. Mice carotid arteries were ligated and treated with CQ or HCQ every other day for 3 weeks. Pathological changes of carotid arteries were visualized by both microscopy and fluorescence microscopy.

Results

CQ and HCQ increase AMPK phosphorylation in VSMCs. Both CQ and HCQ decrease platelet-derived growth factor-induced VSMC proliferation and cell cycle progression in an AMPK-dependent manner. In addition, CQ and HCQ inhibit Smad3 phosphorylation and VSMC proliferation induced by transforming growth factor-β1. Moreover, CQ and HCQ diminished neointimal proliferation in a mouse model of carotid artery ligation-induced neointima formation.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that CQ and HCQ inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in VSMCs via the AMPK-dependent signaling pathway. Carotid artery ligation-induced intima thickness was reduced in mouse arteries treated with CQ or HCQ, suggesting a role for antimalarial drugs in treating atherosclerosis and restenosis.

Therapeutic Strategies in the Development of Anti-viral Drugs and Vaccines Against SARS-CoV-2 Infection

The whole world is currently facing a pandemic of an infectious disease known as novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) . This outbreak emerged unexpectedly and imposed a potential threat to humans, associated with the social and economic burden on the individual and federal governments. COVID-19, which initially started in Wuhan City of China and then spread to the whole world, has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The continuous increase in the number of confirmed cases leads to high mortality across the world. Growing evidence indicates that the mortality rate is very predominant in elderly people and those with preexisting health conditions. However, the potential pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans is still unknown. The dysregulated/exuberant immune response may have substantially contributed to the SARS-CoV-2-mediated pathology. Nevertheless, there is no clinically approved drug/vaccine currently available that can restrict its pathogenesis. However, several drugs are currently shown to provide some therapeutic benefits for COVID-19 patients, including antiviral drugs that might have a significant role in restricting the current pandemic of COVID-19. In this article, we highlighted the pharmacological treatment strategies for COVID-19 and purposed the therapeutic targets for the development of vaccines or anti-viral drug molecules against SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.

Coronavirus Interplay With Lipid Rafts and Autophagy Unveils Promising Therapeutic Targets

Coronaviruses are enveloped, single-stranded, positive-sense RNA viruses that can infect animal and human hosts. The infection induces mild or sometimes severe acute respiratory diseases. Nowadays, the appearance of a new, highly pathogenic and lethal coronavirus variant, SARS-CoV-2, responsible for a pandemic (COVID-19), represents a global problem for human health. Unfortunately, only limited approaches are available to treat coronavirus infections and a vaccine against this new coronavirus variant is not yet available. The plasma membrane microdomain lipid rafts have been found by researchers to be involved in the replication cycle of numerous viruses, including coronaviruses. Indeed, some pathogen recognition receptors for coronaviruses as for other viruses cluster into lipid rafts, and it is therefore conceivable that the first contact between virus and host cells occurs into these specialized regions, representing a port of cell entry for viruses. Recent data highlighted the peculiar pro-viral or anti-viral role played by autophagy in the host immune responses to viral infections. Coronaviruses, like other viruses, were reported to be able to exploit the autophagic machinery to increase their replication or to inhibit the degradation of viral products. Agents known to disrupt lipid rafts, such as metil-β-cyclodextrins or statins, as well as autophagy inhibitor agents, were shown to have an anti-viral role. In this review, we briefly describe the involvement of lipid rafts and autophagy in coronavirus infection and replication. We also hint how lipid rafts and autophagy may represent a potential therapeutic target to be investigated for the treatment of coronavirus infections.