Ursolic Acid Hydrazide Based Organometallic Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Docking Studies

Phenolic phytochemistry, in vitro, in silico, in vivo, and mechanistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant evaluations of Habenaria digitata

Excessive and imbalance of free radicals within the body lead to inflammation. The objective of the current research work was to explore the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the isolated compounds from Habenaria digitata. In this study, the isolated phenolic compounds were investigated for in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory potential along with the antioxidant enzyme. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the phenolic compounds was assayed via various enzymes like COX-1/2, 5-LOX and ABTS, DPPH, and H2O2 free radical enzyme inhibitory assay. These compounds were also explored for their in vivo antioxidant activity like examining SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and MDA levels in the brain, heart, and liver. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated using the carrageenan-induced pleurisy model in mice. On the basis of initial screening of isolated compounds, the most potent compound was further evaluated for the anti-inflammatory mechanism. Furthermore, the molecular docking study was also performed for the potent compound. The phenolic compounds were isolated and identified by GC-MS/NMR analysis by comparing its spectra to the library spectra. The isolated phenolic compounds from H. digitata were 5-methylpyrimidine-24,4-diol (1), 3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-2,3-dihydropyran-4-one (2), 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol (3), 3-methoxy-4-vinylphenol (4), and 2,6-dimethoxy-4-vinylphenol (5). In in vitro antioxidant assay, the most potent compound was compound 1 having IC50 values of 0.98, 0.90, and 5 μg/mL against ABTS, DPPH, and H2O2, respectively. Similarly, against COX1/2 and 5-LOX ,compound 1 was again the potent compound with IC50 values of 42.76, 10.70, and 7.40 μg/mL. Based on the in vitro results, compound 1 was further evaluated for in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Findings of the study suggest that H. digitata contains active compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These compounds could be screened as drug candidates for pharmaceutical research, targeting conditions associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory conditions in medicinal chemistry and support their ethnomedicinal use for inflammation and oxidative stress.

Synthesis of Hydrazide Derivative of Betulinic Acid, Its Organometallic Complexes, Characterization and Bioassay

Betulinic acid and its derivatives comprehend an immense prospective toward the development of cytotoxic, antiviral, antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Cisplatin (cytotoxic drug) divert the attentions to develop organometallic compounds with pronounced biological activities. The current study was aimed for the first time to synthesize, characterize and evaluate biologically a series of metal (Fe, Cu, Zn, Sn and Sb) complexes of betulinic acid hydrazide. First step involved the formation of hydrazide derivative of betulinic acid (ligand) by modification at C-28 carboxylic acid moiety of betulinic acid with hydrazine followed by the synthesis of its metal complexes using salts of different metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Sn and Sb). Physical state, melting point, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (1 H-NMR) spectral techniques were used to characterized the ligand and its metal complexes. Agar well diffusion method and agar tube dilution assay were performed to evaluate its antibacterial and antifungal activities respectively. DPPH assay was carried out to develop antioxidant properties by the reported methods.

New Succinimide-Thiazolidinedione Hybrids as Multitarget Antidiabetic Agents: Design, Synthesis, Bioevaluation, and Molecular Modelling Studies

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder majorly arising from the pathophysiology of the pancreas manifested as a decline in the insulin production or the tissue's resistance to the insulin. In this research, we have rationally designed and synthesized new succinimide-thiazolidinedione hybrids for the management of DM. In a multistep reaction, we were able to synthesize five new derivatives (10a-e). All the compounds were new containing a different substitution pattern on the N-atom of the succinimide ring. Initially, all the compounds were tested against the in vitro α-glucosidase, α-amylase, PTP1B, and DPP4 targets. In all of these targets, the compound 10d was observed to be the most potential antidiabetic agent. Based on this, the antidiabetic activity of the compound 10d was further investigated in experimental animals, which overall gave us encouraging results. The molecular docking studies of the compound 10d was also performed against the target enzymes α-glucosidase, α-amylase, PTP1B, and DPP4 using MOE. Overall, we observed that we have explored a new class of compounds as potential antidiabetic agents.

Organotin (IV) complexes with sulphonyl hydrazide moiety. Design, synthesis, characterization, docking studies, cytotoxic and anti-leishmanial activity

Due to a lack of therapeutic options for the pathological condition of leishmaniasis, which is characterized by polymorphic lesions and skin surface infections, Leishmania genus parasites damaged dermis and mucosa. There was a need to synthesize and characterize some new complexes. This study evaluated the biological activities preferably anti-Leishmanial activity of organotin (IV) containing sulphonyl hydrazide derivatives. A series of six new organotin (IV) complexes 1-6 labeled as R2SnL2; R = Methyl (1), Butyl (2), Phenyl (3) and R3SnL; R = Methyl (4), Butyl (5), Phenyl (6) has been synthesized as reflux method derived from N'- (2,4-dinitrophenyl)-4-methylphenylsulfonylhydrazide (L). All compounds were characterized through FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and elemental analysis. Structural analysis confirms the formation of six complexes (1-6). All derivatives have been screened for their pharmacological activities. Interestingly, compound 1 showed promising activity against leishmania promastigotes with low cytotoxicity. All results were further elaborated through docking studies performed on leishmania donovoni synthetase PDB: ID 3QW3 that acts as an essential building block for the viability of Leishmania promastigotes. This research effectively synthesized sulphonyl hydrazide ligand and its six new organotin (IV) derivatives, which were tested for biological properties such as antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, and ideally anti-leishmanial activity and cytotoxicity. Studies have confirmed that these compounds have the potency to be a good candidate against leishmaniasis. Computational studies were carried out to recognize the binding affinities for leishmania donovoni synthetase.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Ursolic acid: a natural modulator of signaling networks in different cancers

Incidence rate of cancer is estimated to increase by 40% in 2030. Furthermore, the development of resistance against currently available treatment strategies has contributed to the cancer-associated mortality. Scientists are now looking for the solutions that could help prevent the disease occurrence and could provide a pain-free treatment alternative for cancers. Therefore, efforts are now put to find a potent natural compound that could sever this purpose. Ursolic acid (UA), a triterpene acid, has potential to inhibit the tumor progression and induce sensitization to conventional treatment drugs has been documented. Though, UA is a hydrophobic compound therefore it is usually chemically modified to increase its bioavailability prior to administration. However, a thorough literature indicating its mechanism of action and limitations for its use at clinical level was not reviewed. Therefore, the current study was designed to highlight the potential mechanism of UA, its anti-cancer properties, and potential applications as therapeutic compound. This endeavour is a valuable contribution in understanding the hurdles preventing the translation of its potential at clinical level and provides foundations to design new studies that could help enhance its bioavailability and anti-cancer potential for various cancers.

Phytochemistry, anti-diabetic and antioxidant potentials of Allium consanguineum Kunth

Aim

The study was planned to investigate the phytochemicals, antidiabetic and antioxidant studies of A. consanguineum.

Methods

The preliminary studies were performed on crude extract and different solvent fractions. Based on the potency, the chloroform fraction was semi-purified to phyto-fractions CHF-1 – 5. Furthermore, CHF-3 was subjected to isolation of pure compounds using column chromatography. The α-glucosidase, α-amylase and antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, H₂O₂) were performed on all samples. The in-vivo experiments on compounds 1 and 2 were also performed using oral glucose tolerance test. Docking studies were performed on α-glucosidase and α-amylase targets.

Results

Among all fractions, the chloroform fraction exhibited excellent activities profile giving IC₅₀ values of 824, 55, 117, 58 and 85 μg/ml against α-glucosidase, α-amylase, DPPH, ABTS and H₂O₂ targets respectively. Among the five semi-purified chloroform phyto-fractions (CHF-1-5), CHF-3 was the leading fraction in activities giving IC₅₀ values of 85.54, 61.19 and 26.58 μg/ml against α-glucosidase, α-amylase and DPPH respectively. Based on the overall potency and physical amount of CHF-3, it was subjected to purification to get compounds 1 and 2. The two compounds were also found potent in in-vitro activities. The observed IC₅₀ values for compound 1 were 7.93, 28.01 and 6.19 μg/ml against α-glucosidase, α-amylase and DPPH respectively. Similarly, the compound 2 exhibited IC₅₀ of 14.63, 24.82 and 7.654 μg/ml against α-glucosidase, α-amylase and DPPH respectively. Compounds 1 and 2 were potent in decreasing the blood glucose levels in experimental animals. Compounds 1 and 2 also showed interactions with the respective enzymes with molecular docking.

Conclusions

We can conclude that A. Consanguineum is a rich source of natural antidiabetic agents. Bioguided isolation of compound 1 and 2 showed potential inhibitions in all tested in-vitro antidiabetic targets. Further, both the compounds were also able to decrease the blood glucose levels in experimental animals.

In-Vitro, In-Vivo, Molecular Docking and ADMET Studies of 2-Substituted 3,7-Dihydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one for Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Alzheimer's Disease

Plants' bioactives are well-known safe drugs for vital diseases. Flavones and Flavonoid-rich dietary supplements are known to exhibit neuroprotective potential. In this study, we isolated a flavone 2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3,7-dihydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one from Notholirion thomsonianum and it was evaluated against various targets of the oxidative stress-related neurological disorders. The compound showed excellent acetyl and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitions in its profile, giving IC50 values of 1.37 and 0.95 μM, respectively. Similarly, in in-vitro MAO-B assay, our flavone exhibited an IC50 value of 0.14 μM in comparison to the standard safinamide (IC50 0.025 μM). In in-vitro anti-inflammatory assay, our isolated compound exhibited IC50 values of 7.09, 0.38 and 0.84 μM against COX-1, COX-2 and 5-LOX, respectively. The COX-2 selectivity (SI) of the compound was 18.70. The compound was found safe in animals and was very effective in carrageenan-induced inflammation. Due to the polar groups in the structure, a very excellent antioxidant profile was observed in both in-vitro and in-vivo models. The compound was docked into the target proteins of the respective activities and the binding energies confirmed the potency of our compound. Furthermore, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) results showed that the isolated flavone has a good GIT absorption ability and comes with no hepatic and cardiotoxicity. In addition, the skin sensitization test, in-vitro human cell line activation test (h-CLAT) and KeratinoSens have revealed that isolated flavone is not skin sensitive with a confidence score of 59.6% and 91.6%. Herein, we have isolated a natural flavone with an effective profile against Alzheimer's, inflammation and oxidative stress. The exploration of this natural flavone will provide a baseline for future research in the field of drug development.

Succinimide Derivatives as Antioxidant Anticholinesterases, Anti-α-Amylase, and Anti-α-Glucosidase: In Vitro and In Silico Approaches

Based on the diverse pharmacological potency and the structural features of succinimide, this research considered to synthesize succinimide derivatives. Moreover, these compounds were estimated for their biological potential in terms of anti-diabetic, anti-cholinesterase, and anti-oxidant capacities. The compounds were synthesized through Michael addition of various ketones to N-aryl maleimides. Similarly, the MOE software was used for the molecular docking study to explore the binding mode of the potent compounds against different enzymes. In the anti-cholinesterase activity, the compounds MSJ2 and MSJ10 exhibited outstanding activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), i.e., 91.90, 93.20%, and against butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), i.e., 97.30, 91.36% inhibitory potentials, respectively. The compounds MSJ9 and MSJ10 exhibited prominent α-glucosidase inhibitory potentials, i.e., 87.63 and 89.37 with IC₅₀ value of 32 and 28.04 μM, respectively. Moreover, the compounds MSJ2 and MSJ10 revealed significant scavenging activity against DPPH free radicals with IC₅₀ values of 2.59 and 2.52, while against ABTS displayed excellent scavenging potential with IC₅₀ values 7.32 and 3.29 μM, respectively. The tentative results are added with molecular docking studies in the active sites of enzymes to predict the theoretical protein-ligand binding modes. Further detailed mechanism-based studies in animal models are essential for the in vivo evaluation of the potent compound.

Pharmacological evaluation of newly synthesized organotin IV complex for antiulcer potential

The present study aims to investigate the newly synthesized organotin (IV) complex (2E, 2′E) dibutylstannanediyl bis (4-(4-nitrophenyl) amino)-4-oxobut-2-enoate (DTN) for its anti-ulcer potential. Characterization performed by carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy proved that all values are in the expected ranges of the new compound. Gastroprotective activity of DTN was evaluated through in-silico, anti-H. pylori, in-vitro, in-vivo, and ex-vivo proteomic analysis. In-silico analysis shows that DTN possess stable binding with protein targets involved in gastric ulcer pathophysiology. DTN exhibited an inhibitory effect against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, H. pylori and hydrogen potassium ATPase (H⁺/K⁺-ATPase). The antiulcer activity was performed using an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. Anti-oxidant profile of DTN showed a significant increase in glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione and catalase levels whereas lipid peroxidation levels were reduced. Histopathological findings confirmed that DTN protected the gastric mucosa of rats. Inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor-alpha, nuclear factor kappa B, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin 6 and interleukin-1β were reduced and prostaglandin-E₂ restored expression of these cytokines in DTN pretreated animals when analyzed by using immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blot techniques. In real-time polymerase chain reaction technique, the expression of H⁺/K⁺-ATPase was downregulated in DTN pretreated group. DTN did not cause any mortality up to 400 mg/Kg. This study indicates that the newly synthesized compound DTN, possess stable binding against selected targets. DTN exhibits a gastro-protective effect, mediated via anti-H. pylori, H⁺/K⁺-ATPase inhibition, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, exploring its therapeutic potential in gastric ulcer management.

Anti-Inflammatory, Analgesic and Antioxidant Potential of New (2S,3S)-2-(4-isopropylbenzyl)-2-methyl-4-nitro-3-phenylbutanals and Their Corresponding Carboxylic Acids through In Vitro, In Silico and In Vivo Studies

In the current study, a series of new (2S,3S)-2-(4-isopropylbenzyl)-2-methyl-4-nitro-3-phenylbutanals (FM1-6) with their corresponding carboxylic acid analogues (FM7-12) has been synthesized. Initially, the aldehydic derivatives were isolated in the diastereomeric form, and the structures were confirmed with NMR, MS and elemental analysis. Based on the encouraging results in in vitro COX 1/2, 5-LOX and antioxidant assays, we oxidized the compounds and obtained the pure single (major) diastereomer for activities. Among all the compounds, FM4, FM10 and FM12 were the leading compounds based on their potent IC₅₀ values. The IC₅₀ values of compounds FM4, FM10 and FM12 were 0.74, 0.69 and 0.18 µM, respectively, in COX-2 assay. Similarly, the IC₅₀ values of these three compounds were also dominant in COX-1 assay. In 5-LOX assay, the majority of our compounds were potent inhibitors of the enzyme. Based on the potency and safety profiles, FM10 and FM12 were subjected to the in vivo experiments. The compounds FM10 and FM12 were observed with encouraging results in in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory models. The molecular docking studies of the selected compounds show binding interactions in the minimized pocked of the target proteins. It is obvious from the overall results that FM10 and FM12 are potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents.

A Systematic Review on Synthetic and Antimicrobial Bioactivity of the Multifaceted Hydrazide Derivatives

:

To overcome the upsurge of antimicrobial resistance that has emerged in recent years, there is a need for the development of newer hits having satisfying anti-infective activity. Hydrazides incorporated with an azomethine hydrogen account for a cardinal class of molecules for the development of newer derivatives. Hydrazide derivatives have gained considerable interest of medicinal chemists owing to their diverse bioactivity. In the present review, we have attempted to compile the recent trends in the synthesis of hydrazides and their substituted derivatives. The structural features that lead to the desired antimicrobial activity are highlighted, which will lead the way for synthetic and medicinal chemists to focus on newer designs in this arena.

3-(((1S,3S)-3-((R)-Hydroxy(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)methyl)-4-oxocyclohexyl)methyl)pentane-2,4-dione: Design and Synthesis of New Stereopure Multi-Target Antidiabetic Agent

The chiral drug candidates have more effective binding affinities for their specific protein or receptor site for the onset of pharmacological action. Achieving all carbon stereopure compounds is not trivial in chemical synthesis. However, with the development of asymmetric organocatalysis, the synthesis of certain vital chiral drug candidates is now possible. In this research, we have synthesized 3-(((1S,3S)-3-((R)-hydroxy(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)methyl)-4-oxocyclohexyl)methyl)pentane-2,4-dione (S,S,R-5) and have evaluated it potential as multi-target antidiabetic agent. The stereopure compound S,S,R-5 was synthesized with a 99:1 enantiomeric ratio. The synthesized compound gave encouraging results against all in vitro antidiabetic targets, exhibiting IC₅₀ values of 6.28, 4.58, 0.91, and 2.36 in α-glucosidase, α-amylase, PTP1B, and DPPH targets, respectively. The molecular docking shows the binding of the compound in homology models of the respective enzymes. In conclusion, we have synthesized a new chiral molecule (S,S,R-5). The compound proved to be a potential inhibitor of the tested antidiabetic targets. With the observed results and molecular docking, it is evident that S,S,R-5 is a potential multitarget antidiabetic agent. Our study laid the baseline for the animal-based studies of this compound in antidiabetic confirmation.

Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Novel Benzamidine Derivatives: Newer Antibiotics for Periodontitis Treatment

Periodontal disease (PD) is complex polymicrobial disease which destroys tooth-supporting tissue. Although various synthetic inhibitors of periodontitis-triggering pathogens have been recognized, their undesirable side effects limit their application. Hence, the present study intended to perform the synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial evaluation, and cytotoxicity analysis of novel benzamidine analogues (NBA). This study involved the synthesis of novel imino bases of benzamidine (4a–c), by reacting different aromatic aldehydes with 2-(4-carbamimidoylphenoxy) acetohydrazide (3), which was synthesized by the hydrazination of ethyl 2-(4-carbamimidoylphenoxy) acetate (2), the derivative of 4-hydroxybenzene carboximidamide (1). This was followed by characterization using FTIR, ¹H, ¹³C NMR and mass spectrometry. All synthesized compounds were further tested for antimicrobial potential against PD-triggering pathogens by the micro broth dilution method. The cytotoxicity analysis of the NBA against HEK 293 cells was conducted using an MTT assay. The present study resulted in a successful synthesis of NBA and elucidated their structures. The synthesized NBA exhibited significant antimicrobial activity values between 31.25 and 125 µg/mL against tested pathogens. All NBA exhibited weak cytotoxicity against HEK 293 cells at 7.81 µg, equally to chlorhexidine at 0.2%. The significant antimicrobial activity of NBA against PD-triggering pathogens supports their potential application in periodontitis treatment.

Anti-Planktonic and Anti-Biofilm Properties of Pentacyclic Triterpenes-Asiatic Acid and Ursolic Acid as Promising Antibacterial Future Pharmaceuticals

Due to the ever-increasing number of multidrug-resistant bacteria, research concerning plant-derived compounds with antimicrobial mechanisms of action has been conducted. Pentacyclic triterpenes, which have a broad spectrum of medicinal properties, are one of such groups. Asiatic acid (AA) and ursolic acid (UA), which belong to this group, exhibit diverse biological activities that include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and immunostimulatory. Some of these articles usually contain only a short section describing the antibacterial effects of AA or UA. Therefore, our review article aims to provide the reader with a broader understanding of the activity of these acids against pathogenic bacteria. The bacteria in the human body can live in the planktonic form and create a biofilm structure. Therefore, we found it valuable to present the action of AA and UA on both planktonic and biofilm cultures. The article also presents mechanisms of the biological activity of these substances against microorganisms.

Multi-activity tetracoordinated pallado-oxadiazole thiones as anti-inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer, and anti-microbial agents: Structure, stability and bioactivity comparison with pallado-hydrazides

Herein, we report a comparative study based on structure, thermal and solution stability, and biopotency against lipoxygenase (LOX), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and microbes for Pd(II) compounds of N,O,S bearing 5-(C₅H₄XR)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiones (L') of type [PdL'Cl₂] (P'n) and N,O bearing respective hydrazides (L) of type trans-[PdL₂Cl₂] (Pn) {X = C, R = 4-I, 2-Br, 4-NO₂, 3-NO₂, 2-Cl, 3-Cl (n = 1-6, serially); X = N (n = 7)}. Spectral techniques (IR, EI-MS, NMR) and physicochemical evaluations successfully characterized the new compounds. The L' behaved as bidentate S-N donors bonded through exocyclic sulfur and N-3' nitrogen, while L acted as amino N donors. UV-vis (solution speciation) and thermal degradation profiles consistently confirmed the greater stability for P'n than Pn compounds. These compounds manifested varying degree in vitro potential to inhibit LOX, BChE and several bacteria and fungi, affected mainly by Pd(II) presence, M-L binding mode, nature and position of R, or halo groups electronegativity. Molecular docking with human 5-LOX and BChE further validated the respective experimental inhibition findings and explored several putative mechanistic interactions (H-bonding, π-stacking, π-alkyl, π-S, etc.) at the enzyme active sites. Pn generally offered superior antimicrobial and anti-LOX (anti-inflammatory) potential than respective P'n compounds, with P3/P'5, P(2,3,7)/P'3, and P6 being comparable, better and equivalent to ampicillin, nystatin and baicalein, the reference antibacterial, antifungal and anti-LOX drugs, respectively. Contrarily, the anti-BChE activity of P'n was found better than Pn compounds, showing P'2/P1 as the most promising anti-Alzheimer drug candidates. This study bares important structural and mechanistic aspects in optimizing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-Alzheimer activities, highlighting some potential future pallado-drug candidates.

Efficacy of Ursolic Acid-Enriched Water-Soluble and Not Cytotoxic Nanoparticles against Enterococci

Ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid acid found in many medicinal plants and aromas, is known for its antibacterial effects against multi-drug-resistant (MDR) Gram-positive bacteria, which seriously threaten human health. Unfortunately, UA water-insolubility, low bioavailability, and systemic toxicity limit the possibilities of its application in vivo. Consequently, the beneficial activities of UA observed in vitro lose their potential clinical relevance unless water-soluble, not cytotoxic UA formulations are developed. With a nano-technologic approach, we have recently prepared water-soluble UA-loaded dendrimer nanoparticles (UA-G4K NPs) non-cytotoxic on HeLa cells, with promising physicochemical properties for their clinical applications. In this work, with the aim of developing a new antibacterial agent based on UA, UA-G4K has been tested on different strains of the Enterococcus genus, including marine isolates, toward which UA-G4K has shown minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) very low (0.5-4.3 µM), regardless of their resistance to antibiotics. Time-kill experiments, in addition to confirming the previously reported bactericidal activity of UA against E. faecium, also established it for UA-G4K. Furthermore, cytotoxicity experiments on human keratinocytes revealed that nanomanipulation of UA significantly reduced the cytotoxicity of UA, providing UA-G4K NPs with very high LD₅₀ (96.4 µM) and selectivity indices, which were in the range 22.4-192.8, depending on the enterococcal strain tested. Due to its physicochemical and biological properties, UA-G4K could be seriously evaluated as a novel oral-administrable therapeutic option for tackling difficult-to-treat enterococcal infections.

Crude extract and isolated bioactive compounds from Notholirion thomsonianum (Royale) Stapf as multitargets antidiabetic agents: in-vitro and molecular docking approaches

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a common disease effecting the lifestyles of majority world population. In this research work, we have embarked the potential role of crude extracts and isolated compounds of Notholirion thomsonianum for the management diabetes mellitus.

Methods

The crude extracts of N. thomsonianum were initially evaluated for α-glucosidase, α-amylase and antioxidant activities. The compounds were isolated from the activity based potent solvent fraction. The structures of isolated compounds were confirmed with NMR and MS analyses. The isolated compounds were tested for α-glucosidase, α-amylase, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and DPPH activities. The molecular docking studies were carried out to find the binding interactions of isolated compounds for α-glucosidase, α-amylase and PTP1B.

Results

Initially, we screened out crude extracts and subfractions of N. thomsonianum against different in-vitro targets. Among all, Nt.EtAc was observed a potent fraction among all giving IC₅₀ values of 67, 70, < 0.1, 89 and 16 μg/mL against α-glucosidase, α-amylase, DPPH, ABTS and H₂O₂ respectively. Three compounds (Nt01, Nt02 and Nt03) were isolated from Nt.EtAc of N. thomsonianum. The isolated compounds Nt01, Nt02 and Nt03 exhibited IC₅₀ values of 58.93, 114.93 and 19.54 μM against α-glucosidase, while 56.25, 96.54 and 24.39 μM against α-amylase respectively. Comparatively, the standard acarbose observed IC₅₀ values were 10.60 and 12.71 μM against α-glucosidase, α-amylase respectively. In PTP1B assay, the compounds Nt01, Nt02 and Nt03 demonstrated IC₅₀ values of 12.96, 36.22 and 3.57 μM in comparison to the standard ursolic acid (IC₅₀ of 3.63 μM). The isolated compounds also gave overwhelming results in DPPH assay. Molecular docking based binding interactions for α-glucosidase, α-amylase and PTP1B were also encouraging.

Conclusions

In the light of current results, it is obvious that N. thomsonianum is potential medicinal plant for the treatment of hyperglycemia. Overall, Nt.EtAc was dominant fraction in all in-vitro activities. Three compounds Nt01, Nt02 and Nt03 were isolated from ethyl acetate fraction. The Nt03 specifically was most potent in all in-vitro assays. The molecular docking studies supported our in-vitro results. It is concluded that N. thomsonianum is a rich source of bioactive antidiabetic compounds which can be further extended to in-vivo based experiments.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03443-7.

Antiinfective properties of ursolic acid-loaded chitosan nanoparticles against Staphylococcus aureus

The present study aimed to synthesize ursolic acid-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (UA-Ch-NPs) as an antiinfective agent against 21 Staphylococcus aureus isolates. The UA-Ch-NPs were synthesized by a simple method and then characterized by TEM, FTIR, DLS-zeta potential, and XRD analyses. According to the characterization results, highly dispersed spherical nanoparticles with a mean diameter of 258 nm and a zeta potential of + 40.1 mV were developed. The antibacterial properties of UA-Ch-NPs were investigated and their inhibitory effect on biofilm formation was demonstrated by AFM. Finally, the expression levels of icaA and icaD were measured using real-time PCR. Results indicated that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of UA and UA-Ch-NPs against S. aureus was 64 and 32 µg/mL, respectively. The treatment of bacterial cells with UA-Ch-NPs significantly decreased the expression of icaA and icaD genes which are engaged in biofilm formation. Our results indicated that UA-Ch-NPs could be a promising material for antibacterial and antibiofilm applications.

Neuroprotective potentials of selected natural edible oils using enzyme inhibitory, kinetic and simulation approaches

BACKGROUND

Edible oils have proven health benefits in the prevention and treatment of various disorders since the establishment of human era. This study was aimed to appraise neuropharmacological studies on the commonly used edible oils including Cinnamomum verum (CV), Zingiber officinale (ZO) and Cuminum cyminum (CC).

METHODS

The oils were analyzed via GC-MS for identifications of bioactive compounds. Anti-radicals capacity of the oils were evaluated via 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radicals scavenging assays. The samples were also tested against two important acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) which are among the important drug targets in Alzheimer's disease. Lineweaver-Burk plots were constructed for enzyme inhibition studies which correspond to velocity of enzymes (Vmax) against the reciprocal of substrate concentration (Km) in the presence of test samples and control drugs following Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Docking studies on AChE target were also carried out using Molecular Operating Environment (MOE 2016.0802) software.

RESULTS

(Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry GC-MS) analysis revealed the presence of thirty-four compounds in Cinnamon oil (Cv.Eo), fourteen in ginger oil (Zo.Eo) and fifty-six in cumin oil (Cc.Eo). In the antioxidant assays, Cv.Eo, Zo.Eo and Cc.Eo exhibited IC50 values of 85, 121, 280 μg/ml sequentially against DPPH radicals. Whereas, in ABTS assay, Cv.Eo, Zo.Eo and Cc.Eo showed considerable anti-radicals potentials with IC50 values of 93, 77 and 271 μg/ml respectively. Furthermore, Cv.Eo was highly active against AChE enzyme with IC50 of 21 μg/ml. Zo.Eo and Cc.Eo exhibited considerable inhibitory activities against AChE with IC50 values of 88 and 198 μg/ml respectively. In BChE assay, Cv.Eo, Zo.Eo and Cc.Eo exhibited IC50 values of 106, 101 and 37 μg/ml respectively. Our results revealed that these oils possess considerable antioxidant and cholinesterase inhibitory potentials. As functional foods these oils can be effective remedy for the prevention and management of neurological disorders including AD. Synergistic effect of all the identified compounds was determined via binding energy values computed through docking simulations. Binding orientations showed that all the compounds interact with amino acid residues present in the peripheral anionic site (PAS) and catalytic anionic site (CAS) amino acid residues, oxyanion hole and acyl pocket via π-π stacking interactions and hydrogen bond interactions.

Bioactive stigmastadienone from Isodon rugosus as potential anticholinesterase, α-glucosidase and COX/LOX inhibitor: In-vitro and molecular docking studies

Natural product is a well-known source of bioactive compounds. Herein, a steroidal compound stigmasta-7,22-diene-3-one (stigmastadienone) has been isolated from Isodon rugosus. The potency of isolated compound has been tested for several in-vitro targets. The acetyl and butyrylcholinesterase assays were performed using Ellman's procedure. For the in-vitro antidiabetic potential, α-glucosidase inhibitory assay was performed. Similarly, the cyclo and lipoxygenase pathways were studied to find its potential role in the management of inflammation and analgesia. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) assays were performed for the antioxidant potentials. Docking studies were performed against acetylcholinesterase, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase targets. In anticholinesterase assays, stigmastadienone exhibited half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of 13.52 and 11.53 μg/ml for acetyl and butyrylcholinesterase respectively. The observed IC₅₀ values for that of galantamine were 6.07 and 4.42 μg/ml for acety and butyrylcholinesterase respectively. In inhibiting α-glucosidase enzyme, the compound showed mediocre IC₅₀ of 109.40 μg/ml compared to the standard acarbose (7.60 μg/ml). The stigmastadienone proved to be an excellent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) attaining IC₅₀ values of 4.72 and 3.36 μg/ml respectively. The standard drugs IC₅₀ values for COX-2 (celecoxib) and 5-LOX (montelukast) were 3.81 and 2.74 μg/ml respectively. The enzymatic activities of stigmastadienone were also supplemented with antioxidant results, specifically it was more dominant against DPPH and ABTS free radicals. Docking studies showed that only the carbonyl oxygen is able to form hydrogen bond interaction with the residues. In conclusions, the stigmastadienone has been isolated from Isodon rugosus for the first time. Moreover, the compound has been evaluated for several biochemical pathways which suggest its pharmacological role on the explored targets.

Prospective Application of Two New Pyridine-Based Zinc (II) Amide Carboxylate in Management of Alzheimer's Disease: Synthesis, Characterization, Computational and in vitro Approaches

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative illness described predominantly by dementia. Even though Alzheimer’s disease has been known for over a century, its origin remains a mystery, and researchers are exploring many therapy options, including the cholinesterase technique. A decreased acetylcholine ACh neurotransmitter level is believed to be among the important factors in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Methods

In continuation of synthesizing potential anti-Alzheimer agents and known appreciative pharmacological potential of amide-containing compounds, this study presents the synthesis of two novel amide-based transition metal zinc (II) complexes, AAZ7 and AAZ8, attached with a heterocyclic pyridine ring, which was synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), elemental analysis, ¹H_NMR, and ¹³C_NMR. FT-IR spectroscopic records showed the development of bidentate ligand as Δν value was decreased in both complexes when compared with the free ligand. Both of the synthesized complexes were analyzed for acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory potential along with the antioxidizing activity.

Results

Importantly, the complex of AAZ8 exhibited more potent activity giving IC₅₀ values of 14 µg/mL and 18µg/mL as AChE and BChE cholinesterase inhibitors, respectively, when compared with standard positive control galantamine. Interestingly, AAZ8 also displayed promising antioxidant potential by showing IC₅₀ values of 35 µg/mL for DPPH and 29 µg/mL for ABTS in comparison with positive control ascorbic acid.

Conclusion

Herein, we report two new amide carboxylate zinc (II) complexes which were potentially analyzed for various biological applications like acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory potentials, and antioxidant assays. Computational docking studies also simulated results to understand the interactions. Additionally, thermodynamic parameters utilizing molecular dynamic simulation were performed to determine the ligand protein stability and flexibility that supported the results. Studies have shown that these compounds have the potential to be good anti-Alzheimer candidates for future studies due to inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes and display of free radical scavenging potential against DPPH as well as ABTS free radicals.

Schiff-Based Metal Complexes of Lamotrigine: Design, Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation

In the current study, a series of Schiff base derivatives of lamotrigine are complexed with zinc, copper, silver, and tin and characterized by spectroscopic techniques and biological assays. Docking analyses revealed six complexes with favorable binding interactions, which were further subjected to in vitro anticancer activity. The complexes 6b and 6c displayed the most potent antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 cell lines with an IC₅₀ value of 11.9 ± 0.27 and 12.0 ± 0.14 μM, respectively, as compared with the standard doxorubicin with an IC₅₀ value of 0.90 ± 0.14 μM. In vivo anticonvulsant activities of the compounds were evaluated by the subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole model and neurotoxic activities by the minimal motor impairment model. The neurotoxicity of targeted compounds was measured using the rotating rod (ROT) method. Computational studies were carried out using the reported crystal structures of multidrug-resistant protein (PDB-ID: 2KAV) and dihydrofolate reductase (PDB-ID: 3GHW), indicating that the compound 6c showed significant interactions at the voltage-gated sodium ion channel in the brain and at dihydrofolate reductase enzyme in the breast. Certain metal complexes of Schiff base ligands (e.g., 6c) were found to possess the most potent anticancer, anticonvulsant, and neurotoxic potential than lamotrigine alone.

Enhanced Antioxidant Activity of Ursolic Acid by Complexation with Copper (II): Experimental and Theoretical Study

The copper (II) complex of ursolic acid (Cu(II) UA) was synthesized and discussed in terms of its infrared, UV-visible spectra, quantum-chemical calculations at B3LYP/6-31G(d) level and antioxidant capacity. The copper (II) complex was stable in methanolic solution with the molar ratio metal:ligand 1:1. The data obtained by FT-IR confirmed the metal ion coordination through the carboxylate anion. The antioxidant properties of ursolic acid and its complex with Cu were discussed on the basis of energy of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and values of chemical reactivity parameters. The antiradical properties of ursolic acid and the Cu (II) complex were examined against DPPH• and HO• radicals, and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) was examined. The Cu(II) complex showed higher antioxidant activity than ursolic acid, i.e., in DPPH• assay, the EC50 for UA was 47.0 mM, whereas, for Cu(II), UA EC50 = 19.5 mM; the FRAP value for UA was 20.8 µMFe2+, and 35.4 µMFe2+ for Cu(II) UA (compound concentration 3 mM). Although there was no distinct difference in the antioxidant activity against HO• between these two chemicals, they were both better HO• scavengers than DPPH• and showed different kinetics in the reaction with DPPH•.

Treating Hyperglycemia From Eryngium caeruleum M. Bieb: In-vitro α-Glucosidase, Antioxidant, in-vivo Antidiabetic and Molecular Docking-Based Approaches

Natural-based drugs are believed to be safe, effective and economical. Based on the medicinal importance of the genus Eryngium and unexplored nature of Eryngium caeruleum, we have evaluated its antidiabetic and antioxidant potentials. Both in-vitro and in-vivo assays have been carried out for antidiabetic assays. The antioxidant activity was determined by using different free radicals [i.e., 1,1-diphenyl,2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azinobis[3-ethylbenzthiazoline]-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)]. Moreover, different phytoconstituents were identified in the most active solvent fraction by GC-MS analysis. Furthermore, comparative fingerprints of methanolic extract and chloroform fraction were also analyzed via High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Diode Array Detector (HPLC-DAD). The crude methanolic extract of E. caeruleum (Ec.Cr) and its sub-fractions [i.e., n-hexane (Ec.Hex), chloroform (Ec.Chf), ethyl acetate (Ec.EtAc), and aqueous (Ec.Aq) were employed in this study]. In the α-glucosidase inhibition assay, a concentration-dependent inhibitory response was observed against the enzyme. The most active sample was Ec.Chf which revealed an IC₅₀ of 437 μg/ml in comparison to the standard acarbose (IC₅₀ 25 μg/ml). The rest of the samples showed moderate inhibition of α-glucosidase. In antioxidant assays, Ec.Chf and Ec.Cr exhibited a considerable scavenging effect against all the free radicals. The IC₅₀ values recorded for Ec.Chf were 112, 109, and 150 μg/ml against DPPH, ABTS, and H₂O₂ respectively. Based on the in-vitro potential of Ec.Chf, this was subjected to the in-vivo model experiment. The Ec.Chf lowered the blood glucose level up to 10.3 mmol/L at 500 μg/Kg. The Ec.Chf was also subjected to GC-MS analysis. The GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of 60 compounds. The identified phytoconstituents consist of some essential compounds previously reported with antidiabetic and antioxidant studies, which include thymol, tocopherol, phytol, nerolidol, (I)-neophytadiene, linolenic acid, and falcarinol. Similarly, the HPLC-DAD chromatograms of Ec.Cr and Ec.Chf exhibited a variety of peaks, which further demonstrates the possibility of important phytochemicals. In a nutshell, we can conclude that Eryngium caeruleum is a potential source of bioactive compounds which may be beneficial for the management of ailments like diabetes and free radicals mediated disorders. Molecular docking was performed to explore the possible role of all the identified bioactive compounds in the chloroform fraction of Eryngium caeruleum into active sites of the homology model of α-glucosidase.

Novel piperazine-tailored ursolic acid hybrids as significant antibacterial agents targeting phytopathogens Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and X. axonopodis pv. citri probably directed by activation of apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Induced apoptosis is an effective technique that can reprogram cellular physiological and pathological processes to eradicate undesirable cells using their innate systems. Inspired by this, numerous apoptosis inducers have been developed to treat animal diseases, especially in the anticancer field. However, few studies have reported on the development of inductive agents that attack plant pathogens by activation of apoptosis. With the aim of exploring and discovering apoptosis inducers that target phytopathogens, a cluster of piperazine-tailored ursolic acid (UA) hybrids was systematically fabricated.

RESULTS

In vitro testing showed that the title molecules could inhibit the growth of two intractable bacterial strains, defined as Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and X. axonopodis pv. citri. The corresponding lowest EC50 values were 0.37 and 1.08 μg mL-1 , which exceed those of UA (>400 μg mL-1 ) and positive controls. Moreover, compounds 5u and 5v could manage bacterial blight in vivo using pot experiments. Flow cytometer analysis indicted that the title compounds could induce distinct apoptotic behaviors on tested bacteria. In-depth study revealed that the introduction of designed compounds could reduce the enzyme activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase, subsequently leading to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species.

CONCLUSION

This study promoted the development of apoptosis initiators for managing bacterial infections in agriculture by an innovative mode of action. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Comparative Cholinesterase, α-Glucosidase Inhibitory, Antioxidant, Molecular Docking, and Kinetic Studies on Potent Succinimide Derivatives

Introduction

The current study was designed to synthesize derivatives of succinimide and compare their biological potency in anticholinesterase, alpha-glucosidase inhibition, and antioxidant assays.

Methods

In this research, two succinimide derivatives including (S)-1-(2,5-dioxo-1-phenylpyrrolidin-3-yl) cyclohexanecarbaldehyde (Compound 1) and (R)-2-((S)-2,5-dioxo-1-phenylpyrrolidin-3-yl)-2-phenylpropanal (Compound 2) were synthesized using Michael addition. Both the compounds, ie, 1 and 2 were evaluated for in-vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylctcholinesterase (BChE), antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibitory potentials. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed using Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) to explore the binding mode of both the compounds against different enzymes. Lineweaver-Burk plots of enzyme inhibitions representing the reciprocal of initial enzyme velocity versus the reciprocal of substrate concentration in the presence of synthesized compounds and standard drugs were constructed using Michaelis-Menten kinetics.

Results

In AChE inhibitory assay, compounds 1 and 2 exhibited IC₅₀ of 343.45 and 422.98 µM, respectively, against AChE enzyme. Similarly, both the compounds showed IC₅₀ of 276.86 and 357.91 µM, respectively, against BChE enzyme. Compounds 1 and 2 displayed IC₅₀ of 157.71 and 471.79 µM against α-glucosidase enzyme, respectively. In a similar pattern, compound 1 exhibited to be more potent as compared to compound 2 in all the three antioxidant assays. Compound 1 exhibited IC₅₀ values of 297.98, 332.94, and 825.92 µM against DPPH, ABTS, and H₂O₂ free radicals, respectively. Molecular docking showed a triple fold in the AChE and BChE activity for compound 1 compared with compound 2. The compound 1 revealed good interaction against both the AChE and BChE enzymes which revealed the high potency of this compound compared to compound 2.

Conclusion

Both succinimide derivatives exhibited considerable inhibitory activities against cholinesterases and α-glucosidase enzymes. Of these two, compound 1 revealed to be more potent against all the in-vitro targets which was supported by molecular docking with the lowest binding energies. Moreover, compound 1 also proved to have antiradical properties.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Aldehydic-Pyrrolidinedione Against HCT-116, MDA-MB231, NIH/3T3, MCF-7 Cancer Cell Lines, Antioxidant and Enzyme Inhibition Studies

Purpose

The current work was designed to synthesize a bioactive derivative of succinimide and evaluate it for anti-Alzheimer, anticancer and anti-diabetic potentials.

Methods

The compound was synthesized by Michael addition of butyraldehyde with N-phenylmaleimide. The synthesized compound was screened for biological potentials including anti-cholinesterase, in-vitro anti-diabetic, antioxidant and anthelmintic potentials. The anti-cholinesterase potential was evaluated against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), anti-diabetic potential against α-glucosidase, antioxidant potential against ABTS, DPPH and H₂O₂ and anthelmintic potential against Perethima posthuma and Ascaridia galli respectively.

Results

The compound demonstrated significant AChE and BChE inhibition i.e., 71.34±1.92 and 73.42 ±1.92 at the concentration of 1000 µg/mL respectively. Other dilutions exhibited concentration-dependent inhibitory activity against both enzymes. In the MTT assay, the newly synthesized compound was found active against all of the cell lines viz, HCT-116, MDA-MB231, NIH/3T3 and MCF-7 and the highest cytotoxicity potential was observed against the colon cancer cell line (HCT-116) with an IC₅₀ value of 78 µg/mL exhibiting its highest potential. Moreover, the compound exhibited prominent α-glucosidase inhibitory potentials (79.86±2.54% at 1000 µg/mL) with IC₅₀ value of 156.23 µg/mL. Further, our test compound exhibited considerable scavenging activity against DPPH, ABTS and H₂O₂ free radicals with percent inhibitions of 75.84±1.58, 72.85±1.17 and 54.82±1.82 and IC₅₀ values of 84.36, 139.74 and 752.21 µg/mL respectively. Our test sample exhibited significant anthelmintic potentials. It demonstrated significant paralysis and death of the test worms in an unbelievably short time in comparison with albendazole.

Conclusion

Going into the detail of all observations, it may be deduced that the newly synthesized succinimide derivative could be an important drug candidate against neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus and worms. Further detailed studies in animal models are required for in-vivo analysis of the compound.

Design, synthesis, in-vitro, in-vivo and in-silico studies of pyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives as multitarget anti-inflammatory agents

In recent years, drug discovery paradigm has been shifted from conventional single target inhibition toward multitarget design concept. In current research, we have reported synthesis, in-vitro, in-vivo and acute toxicity determination of N-substituted pyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives as multitarget anti-inflammatory agents. We synthesized cycloalkyl, alkyl and aryl carbonyl derivatives by the Michael addition of ketones to N-substituted maleimides using self-assembled three component system as an organocatalyst. Anti-inflammatory potential of the compounds was determined by using different in-vitro assays, like cyclooxygenase-1, cyclooxygenase-2 and 5-lipoxygenase, albumin denaturation and anti-protease assays. Amongst the synthesized compounds, 13a-e series of compounds showed inhibition in low micromolar to submicromolar ranges. These compounds also demonstrated COX-2 selectivity. Compound 13e with IC₅₀ value 0.98 μM and SI of 31.5 emerged as the most potent inhibitor of COX-2. Based on in-vitro results, in-vivo anti-inflammatory investigations were performed on compounds 3b and 13evia carrageenan induced paw edema test. The possible mode of action of compounds 3b and 13e were ascertained with various mediators like histamine, bradykinin, prostaglandin and leukotriene. In-vivo acute toxicity study showed the safety of synthesized compounds up to 1000 mg/kg dose. The selectivity of the compounds against cyclooxygenase isoforms was supported by docking simulations. Selective COX-2 inhibitors showed significant interactions with the amino acid residues present in additional secondary COX-2 enzyme pocket. Furthermore, in-silico pharmacokinetic predictions confer the drug-like characteristics.

Organometallic Compounds and Metal Complexes in Current and Future Treatments of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Colorectal Cancer-a Critical Review

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the clinical use of organometallic compounds and metal complexes for therapeutic purposes including treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Their action is based on the inhibition of the inflow of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the elimination of free radicals or the modulation of intestinal microbiota. In addition, these compounds are intended for use in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) which is often a consequence of IBD. The aim of this study is to critically discuss recent findings on the use of organometallic compounds and metal complexes in the treatment of IBD and CRC and suggest future trends in drug design.