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Retnosari R, Ali AH, Zainalabidin S, Ugusman A, Oka N, Latip J. The recent discovery of a promising pharmacological scaffold derived from carvacrol: A review. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 109:129826. [PMID: 38830427 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Carvacrol, called CA, is a dynamic phytoconstituent characterized by a phenol ring abundantly sourced from various natural reservoirs. This versatile scaffold serves as a pivotal template for the design and synthesis of novel drug molecules, harboring promising biological activities. The active sites positioned at C-4, C-6, and the hydroxyl group (-OH) of CA offer fertile ground for creating potent drug candidates from a pharmacological standpoint. In this comprehensive review, we delve into diverse synthesis pathways and explore the biological activity of CA derivatives. We aim to illuminate the potential of these derivatives in discovering and developing efficacious treatments against a myriad of life-threatening diseases. By scrutinizing the structural modifications and pharmacophore placements that enhance the activity of CA derivatives, we aspire to inspire the innovation of novel therapeutics with heightened potency and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rini Retnosari
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; International Joint Department of Materials Science and Engineering Between National University of Malaysia and Gifu University, Graduate School of Engineering, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan; Department of Chemistry, Universitas Negeri Malang, Jl. Semarang No. 5 Malang, Indonesia
| | - Amatul Hamizah Ali
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Satirah Zainalabidin
- Programme of Biomedical Science, Centre for Toxicology and Health Risk Studies (CORE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Azizah Ugusman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Natsuhisa Oka
- International Joint Department of Materials Science and Engineering Between National University of Malaysia and Gifu University, Graduate School of Engineering, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan; Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Faculty of Engineering, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan; Institute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan; Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research (COMIT), Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Jalifah Latip
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Yadav S, Pandey A, Mali SN. From lab to nature: Recent advancements in the journey of gastroprotective agents from medicinal chemistry to phytotherapy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 272:116436. [PMID: 38704935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Peptic ulcer, affecting 10 % of the global population, results from imbalances in gastric juice pH and diminished mucosal defences. Key underlying factors are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Helicobacter pylori infection, undermining mucosal resistance. Traditional treatments like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonists exhibit drawbacks such as adverse effects, relapses, and drug interactions. This review extensively explores the ethnomedicinal, synthetic and pharmacological facets of various potential peptic ulcer treatments. Rigorous methodologies involving electronic databases, and chemical structure verification via 'PubChem' and 'SciFinder' enhance the review's credibility. The provided information, spanning medicinal insights to intricate pharmacological mechanisms, establishes a robust groundwork for future research and the development of plant-derived or synthetic molecules for peptic ulcers, offering a promising alternative to conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susmita Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 835215, India
| | - Anima Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 835215, India
| | - Suraj N Mali
- School of Pharmacy, D.Y. Patil University (Deemed to be University), Sector 7, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, 400706, India.
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Peter S, Sotondoshe N, Aderibigbe BA. Carvacrol and Thymol Hybrids: Potential Anticancer and Antibacterial Therapeutics. Molecules 2024; 29:2277. [PMID: 38792138 PMCID: PMC11123974 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29102277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is ranked among lethal diseases globally, and the increasing number of cancer cases and deaths results from limited access to effective therapeutics. The use of plant-based medicine has been gaining interest from several researchers. Carvacrol and its isomeric compound, thymol, are plant-based extracts that possess several biological activities, such as antimalarial, anticancer, antifungal, and antibacterial. However, their efficacy is compromised by their poor bioavailability. Thus, medicinal scientists have explored the synthesis of hybrid compounds containing their pharmacophores to enhance their therapeutic efficacy and improve their bioavailability. Hence, this review is a comprehensive report on hybrid compounds containing carvacrol and its isomer, thymol, with potent anticancer and antibacterial agents reported between 2020 and 2024. Furthermore, their structural activity relationship (SAR) and recommended future strategies to further enhance their therapeutic effects will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijongesonke Peter
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa;
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Melfi F, Carradori S, Mencarelli N, Campestre C, Gallorini M, Di Giacomo S, Di Sotto A. Natural products as a source of new anticancer chemotypes. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2023; 33:721-744. [PMID: 37775999 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2023.2265561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exploring the chemical diversity and molecular mechanisms of natural products continues to be an important research area for identifying novel promising therapeutic approaches for fighting cancer. This is a complex disease and poses important challenges, which require not only targeted interventions to improve chemotherapy efficacy and tolerability, but also adjuvant strategies to counteract chemoresistance development and relapses. AREAS COVERED After a brief description of the recent literature on the anticancer potential of natural compounds, we searched for patents following the PRISMA guidelines, filtering the results published from 2019 onwards. In addition, some relevant publications from the overall scientific literature were also discussed. EXPERT OPINION This review comprehensively covers and analyzes the most recent advances on the anticancer mechanism of licensed natural compounds and their chemical optimization. Patentability of natural compounds was discussed according to the recent legislation in the U.S.A. and Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Melfi
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Noemi Mencarelli
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Cristina Campestre
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marialucia Gallorini
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Sotto
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Carradori S, Ammazzalorso A, Niccolai S, Tanini D, D’Agostino I, Melfi F, Capperucci A, Grande R, Sisto F. Nature-Inspired Compounds: Synthesis and Antibacterial Susceptibility Testing of Eugenol Derivatives against H. pylori Strains. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1317. [PMID: 37765124 PMCID: PMC10534785 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The antimicrobial properties of one of the most important secondary metabolites, Eugenol (EU), inspired us to design and synthesize three different series of derivatives enhancing its parent compound's anti-Helicobacter pylori activity. Thus, we prepared semisynthetic derivatives through (A) diazo aryl functionalization, (B) derivatization of the hydroxy group of EU, and (C) elongation of the allyl radical by incorporating a chalcogen atom. The antibacterial evaluation was performed on the reference NCTC 11637 strain and on three drug-resistant clinical isolates and the minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MICs and MBCs) highlight the role of chalcogens in enhancing the antimicrobial activity (less than 4 µg/mL for some compounds) of the EU scaffold (32-64 µg/mL).
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.C.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Alessandra Ammazzalorso
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.C.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Sofia Niccolai
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3–13, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (S.N.); (D.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Damiano Tanini
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3–13, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (S.N.); (D.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Ilaria D’Agostino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesco Melfi
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.C.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Antonella Capperucci
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3–13, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (S.N.); (D.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Rossella Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.C.); (F.M.); (R.G.)
| | - Francesca Sisto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Pascal 36, 20133 Milan, Italy;
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Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activities of Carvacrol, Amoxicillin and Salicylhydroxamic Acid Alone and in Combination vs. Helicobacter pylori: Towards a New Multi-Targeted Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054455. [PMID: 36901886 PMCID: PMC10002413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has indicated Helicobacter pylori as a high-priority pathogen whose infections urgently require an update of the antibacterial treatments pipeline. Recently, bacterial ureases and carbonic anhydrases (CAs) were found to represent valuable pharmacological targets to inhibit bacterial growth. Hence, we explored the underexploited possibility of developing a multiple-targeted anti-H. pylori therapy by assessing the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of a CA inhibitor, carvacrol (CAR), amoxicillin (AMX) and a urease inhibitor (SHA), alone and in combination. Minimal Inhibitory (MIC) and Minimal Bactericidal (MBC) Concentrations of their different combinations were evaluated by checkerboard assay and three different methods were employed to assess their capability to eradicate H. pylori biofilm. Through Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis, the mechanism of action of the three compounds alone and together was determined. Interestingly, most combinations were found to strongly inhibit H. pylori growth, resulting in an additive FIC index for both CAR-AMX and CAR-SHA associations, while an indifferent value was recorded for the AMX-SHA association. Greater antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy of the combinations CAR-AMX, SHA-AMX and CAR-SHA against H. pylori were found with respect to the same compounds used alone, thereby representing an innovative and promising strategy to counteract H. pylori infections.
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Cacciatore I, Spalletta S, Di Rienzo A, Flati V, Fornasari E, Pierdomenico L, Del Boccio P, Valentinuzzi S, Costantini E, Toniato E, Martinotti S, Conte C, Di Stefano A, Robuffo I. Anti-Obesity and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Novel Carvacrol Derivatives on 3T3-L1 and WJ-MSCs Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030340. [PMID: 36986440 PMCID: PMC10055808 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Obesity, a complex metabolic disease resulting from an imbalance between food consumption and energy expenditure, leads to an increase in adipocytes and chronic inflammatory conditions. The aim of this paper was to synthesize a small series of carvacrol derivatives (CD1-3) that are able to reduce both adipogenesis and the inflammatory status often associated with the progression of the obesity disease. (2) Methods: The synthesis of CD1-3 was performed using classical procedures in a solution phase. Biological studies were performed on three cell lines: 3T3-L1, WJ-MSCs, and THP-1. The anti-adipogenic properties of CD1-3 were evaluated using western blotting and densitometric analysis by assessing the expression of obesity-related proteins, such as ChREBP. The anti-inflammatory effect was estimated by measuring the reduction in TNF-α expression in CD1-3-treated THP-1 cells. (3) Results: CD1-3—obtained through a direct linkage between the carboxylic moiety of anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Flurbiprofen, and Naproxen) and the hydroxyl group of carvacrol—have an inhibitory effect on the accumulation of lipids in both 3T3-L1 and WJ-MSCs cell cultures and an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing TNF- α levels in THP-1 cells. (4) Conclusions: Considering the physicochemical properties, stability, and biological data, the CD3 derivative—obtained by a direct linkage between carvacrol and naproxen—resulted in the best candidate, displaying anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Cacciatore
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-871-355-44-75
| | - Sonia Spalletta
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Annalisa Di Rienzo
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Flati
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Erika Fornasari
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Laura Pierdomenico
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, Center on Advanced Studies and Technologies (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Piero Del Boccio
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Silvia Valentinuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Erica Costantini
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Elena Toniato
- Department of Innovative Technology in Medicine and Odontoiatrics, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Martinotti
- Department of Innovative Technology in Medicine and Odontoiatrics, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Carmela Conte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Stefano
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Iole Robuffo
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, Center on Advanced Studies and Technologies (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Genetics “Luigi Luca Cavalli Sforza”, National Research Council, Section of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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Vitalini S, Garzoli S, Sisto F, Pezzani R, Argentieri MP, Scarafoni A, Ciappellano S, Zorzan M, Capraro J, Collazuol D, Iriti M. Digestive and gastroprotective effects of Achillea erba-rotta subsp. moschata (Wulfen) I.Richardson (syn. A. moschata Wulfen) (Asteraceae): From traditional uses to preclinical studies. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 298:115670. [PMID: 36038090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Achillea erba-rotta subsp. moschata (Wulfen) I.Richardson (syn. A. moschata Wulfen) (Asteraceae) is an alpine endemic plant whose aerial parts are harvested by the locals mainly for the digestive properties. Despite its widespread use, few studies have been conducted to date to verify its bioactivity. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of the work was to meet the tradition confirming with experimental data the popular belief that the consumption of this species offers beneficial effects to the gastrointestinal system. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using Soxhlet apparatus, the dried aerial parts of A. erba-rotta subsp. moschata were successively extracted with petroleum ether (PET), dichloromethane (DCM) and methanol (MeOH). The essential oil (EO) was obtained by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus while infusion (AE) was prepared following the traditional local recipe. Their chemical characterization was performed by various techniques including SPME-GC/MS, GC/MS and HPLC/MS-MS. An in vitro biological screening was carried out. The influence of AE on lipid digestion was monitored by titration of free fatty acids (FFA) during pancreatic lipase activity with the pH-stat method. For all extracts and EO, the anti-Helicobacter pylori activity was assessed by the broth microdilution method, the influence on cell viability was evaluated against NCI-N87, OE21 and Caco-2 cell lines and a preliminary toxicity evaluation was done using Brine Shrimp lethality (BSL) assay. The anti-inflammatory potential was evidenced by interleukin IL-1- induced IL8 expression on Caco-2 cells. RESULTS AE increased by 15% the FFA releasing compared to the pancreatic lipase alone. PET, DCM and MeOH extracts as well as AE and EO were considered active against the growth of both antimicrobial susceptible and resistant strains of H. pylori with MIC values starting from 16 μg/mL. PET and DCM (IC50 = 89 μg/mL and 96 μg/mL, respectively, against Caco-2 cell line) extracts showed the high effect on cell viability while the EO reduced in 50% of cell viability at 1.48 μL/mL (NCI-N87 cells), 1.42 μL/mL (OE21 cells), and 3.44 μL/mL (Caco-2 cells) corroborating the BSL results. In different degrees, all extracts and EO inhibited the IL-1β-stimulated IL-8 production in Caco-2 cells. CONCLUSIONS The obtained data are encouraging and provide a scientific basis for the traditional use of A. erba-rotta subsp. moschata as a digestive agent although they need to be further corroborated by studies involving the investigation of both the in vivo activities and the role of the compounds detected in the extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Vitalini
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy; Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Pascal 36, 20133, Milan, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology, via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Firenze, Italy.
| | - Stefania Garzoli
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Sapienza University, P. le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Sisto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Pascal 36, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Raffaele Pezzani
- Phytotherapy Lab, Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, via Ospedale 105, Padova, 35128, Italy; AIROB, Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca Oncologica di Base, Padova, Italy.
| | - Maria Pia Argentieri
- Department of Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy.
| | - Alessio Scarafoni
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Ciappellano
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Maira Zorzan
- Phytotherapy Lab, Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, via Ospedale 105, Padova, 35128, Italy.
| | - Jessica Capraro
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Daniela Collazuol
- Phytotherapy Lab, Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padova, via Ospedale 105, Padova, 35128, Italy.
| | - Marcello Iriti
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via G. Pascal 36, 20133, Milan, Italy; National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology, via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Firenze, Italy.
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In Vitro Activity of the Arylaminoartemisinin GC012 against Helicobacter pylori and Its Effects on Biofilm. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11070740. [PMID: 35889986 PMCID: PMC9324866 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the in vitro activity of the arylaminoartemisinin GC012, readily obtained from dihydroartemisinin (DHA), against clinical strains of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) with different antibiotic susceptibilities in the planktonic and sessile state. The activity was assessed in terms of bacteriostatic and bactericidal potential. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by the broth microdilution method. After treatment with GC012, all bacterial strains showed significantly lower MIC and MBC values compared to those of DHA. The effect of combination of GC012 with antibiotics was examined using the checkerboard method. GC012 displayed synergistic interactions with metronidazole, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin in all the strains. The antibiofilm activity was evaluated via crystal violet staining, AlamarBlue® assay, colony-forming unit count, and fluorescence microscopy. At ½ MIC and ¼ MIC concentration, both GC012 and DHA inhibited biofilm formation, but only GC012 showed a minimal biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) on mature biofilm. Furthermore, both compounds induced structural changes in the bacterial membrane, as observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It is thereby demonstrated that GC012 has the potential to be efficacious against H. pylori infection.
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Marconi GD, Della Rocca Y, Fonticoli L, Guarnieri S, Carradori S, Rajan TS, Pizzicannella J, Diomede F. The Beneficial Effect of Carvacrol in HL-1 Cardiomyocytes Treated with LPS-G: Anti-Inflammatory Pathway Investigations. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020386. [PMID: 35204269 PMCID: PMC8869563 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Carvacrol (CAR), a natural phenolic monoterpene, possesses different biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The current study aimed to evaluate the response of HL-1 cardiomyocytes to an inflammatory stimulus triggered by lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis (LPS-G), alone or in co-treatment with CAR, to investigate the potential protective role of CAR in the inflammatory process through modulation of the TLR4/NFκB/NALP3/IL-1β pathway and ROS production. In an in vitro experiment, HL-1 cardiomyocytes were exposed to LPS-G and incubated with CAR. We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of CAR by the reduction in TLR4, NFκB, NALP3, and IL-1β expression using immunofluorescence staining. Western blot analysis also validated the modulation of the TLR4/NFκB/NALP3/IL-1β pathway. ROS analyses confirmed the protective effects of CAR. Our results suggest that CAR could provide a significant protection role against inflammatory stimulus generated by LPS-G, involving the suppression of the TLR4/NFκB/NALP3/IL-1β signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guya Diletta Marconi
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Ylenia Della Rocca
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (Y.D.R.); (L.F.); (F.D.)
| | - Luigia Fonticoli
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (Y.D.R.); (L.F.); (F.D.)
| | - Simone Guarnieri
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | | | - Jacopo Pizzicannella
- Ss. Annunziata Hospital, ASL 02 Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesca Diomede
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (Y.D.R.); (L.F.); (F.D.)
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12
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Cholesterol‐Based Conjugates: Synthesis, Characterization and In Vitro Biological Studies. ChemistrySelect 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202102784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Selective Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori Carbonic Anhydrases by Carvacrol and Thymol Could Impair Biofilm Production and the Release of Outer Membrane Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111583. [PMID: 34769015 PMCID: PMC8584244 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori, a Gram-negative neutrophilic pathogen, is the cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer in humans. Current therapeutic regimens suffer from an emerging bacterial resistance rate and poor patience compliance. To improve the discovery of compounds targeting bacterial alternative enzymes or essential pathways such as carbonic anhydrases (CAs), we assessed the anti-H. pylori activity of thymol and carvacrol in terms of CA inhibition, isoform selectivity, growth impairment, biofilm production, and release of associated outer membrane vesicles-eDNA. The microbiological results were correlated by the evaluation in vitro of H. pylori CA inhibition, in silico analysis of the structural requirements to display such isoform selectivity, and the assessment of their limited toxicity against three probiotic species with respect to amoxicillin. Carvacrol and thymol could thus be considered as new lead compounds as alternative H. pylori CA inhibitors or to be used in association with current drugs for the management of H. pylori infection and limiting the spread of antibiotic resistance.
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Floris B, Galloni P, Conte V, Sabuzi F. Tailored Functionalization of Natural Phenols to Improve Biological Activity. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1325. [PMID: 34572538 PMCID: PMC8467377 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenols are widespread in nature, being the major components of several plants and essential oils. Natural phenols' anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, pharmacological and nutritional properties are, nowadays, well established. Hence, given their peculiar biological role, numerous studies are currently ongoing to overcome their limitations, as well as to enhance their activity. In this review, the functionalization of selected natural phenols is critically examined, mainly highlighting their improved bioactivity after the proper chemical transformations. In particular, functionalization of the most abundant naturally occurring monophenols, diphenols, lipidic phenols, phenolic acids, polyphenols and curcumin derivatives is explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Floris
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, snc, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Pierluca Galloni
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, snc, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Valeria Conte
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, snc, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Federica Sabuzi
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, snc, 00133 Roma, Italy
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15
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Sampaio LA, Pina LTS, Serafini MR, Tavares DDS, Guimarães AG. Antitumor Effects of Carvacrol and Thymol: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:702487. [PMID: 34305611 PMCID: PMC8293693 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.702487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: It is estimated that one in five people worldwide faces a diagnosis of a malignant neoplasm during their lifetime. Carvacrol and its isomer, thymol, are natural compounds that act against several diseases, including cancer. Thus, this systematic review aimed to examine and synthesize the knowledge on the antitumor effects of carvacrol and thymol. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Lilacs databases in April 2020 (updated in March 2021) based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The following combination of health descriptors, MeSH terms and their synonyms were used: carvacrol, thymol, antitumor, antineoplastic, anticancer, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell proliferation, in vitro and in vivo. To assess the risk of bias in in vivo studies, the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool was used, and for in vitro studies, a modified version was used. Results: A total of 1,170 records were identified, with 77 meeting the established criteria. The studies were published between 2003 and 2021, with 69 being in vitro and 10 in vivo. Forty-three used carvacrol, 19 thymol, and 15 studies tested both monoterpenes. It was attested that carvacrol and thymol induced apoptosis, cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, antimetastatic activity, and also displayed different antiproliferative effects and inhibition of signaling pathways (MAPKs and PI3K/AKT/mTOR). Conclusions: Carvacrol and thymol exhibited antitumor and antiproliferative activity through several signaling pathways. In vitro, carvacrol appears to be more potent than thymol. However, further in vivo studies with robust methodology are required to define a standard and safe dose, determine their toxic or side effects, and clarify its exact mechanisms of action. This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020176736) and the protocol is available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=176736.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laeza Alves Sampaio
- Graduate Program of Applied Sciences to Health, Federal University of Sergipe, Lagarto, Brazil
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Sisto F, Carradori S, Guglielmi P, Spano M, Secci D, Granese A, Sobolev AP, Grande R, Campestre C, Di Marcantonio MC, Mincione G. Synthesis and Evaluation of Thymol-Based Synthetic Derivatives as Dual-Action Inhibitors against Different Strains of H. pylori and AGS Cell Line. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26071829. [PMID: 33805064 PMCID: PMC8037164 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26071829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Following a similar approach on carvacrol-based derivatives, we investigated the synthesis and the microbiological screening against eight strains of H. pylori, and the cytotoxic activity against human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells of a new series of ether compounds based on the structure of thymol. Structural analysis comprehended elemental analysis and 1H/13C/19F NMR spectra. The analysis of structure–activity relationships within this molecular library of 38 structurally-related compounds reported that some chemical modifications of the OH group of thymol led to broad-spectrum growth inhibition on all isolates. Preferred substitutions were benzyl groups compared to alkyl chains, and the specific presence of functional groups at para position of the benzyl moiety such as 4-CN and 4-Ph endowed the most anti-H. pylori activity toward all the strains with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values up to 4 µg/mL. Poly-substitution on the benzyl ring was not essential. Moreover, several compounds characterized by the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration/minimum bactericidal concentration (MIC/MBC) values against H. pylori were also tested in order to verify a cytotoxic effect against AGS cells with respect to 5-fluorouracil and carvacrol. Three derivatives can be considered as new lead compounds alternative to current therapy to manage H. pylori infection, preventing the occurrence of severe gastric diseases. The present work confirms the possibility to use natural compounds as templates for the medicinal semi-synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sisto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.G.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Paolo Guglielmi
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.G.); (M.S.); (D.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Mattia Spano
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.G.); (M.S.); (D.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Daniela Secci
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.G.); (M.S.); (D.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Arianna Granese
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.G.); (M.S.); (D.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Anatoly P. Sobolev
- Institute for Biological Systems, “Annalaura Segre” Magnetic Resonance Laboratory, CNR, 00015 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rossella Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Cristina Campestre
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (R.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Maria Carmela Di Marcantonio
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.C.D.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Gabriella Mincione
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.C.D.M.); (G.M.)
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Synthesis, Cytotoxicity and Anti-Proliferative Activity Against AGS Cells of New 3(2 H)-Pyridazinone Derivatives Endowed with a Piperazinyl Linker. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14030183. [PMID: 33668893 PMCID: PMC7996573 DOI: 10.3390/ph14030183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel twenty-three 3(2H)-pyridazinone derivatives were designed and synthesized based on the chemical requirements related to the anti-proliferative effects previously demonstrated within this scaffold. The introduction of a piperazinyl linker between the pyridazinone nucleus and the additional (un)substituted phenyl group led to some compounds endowed with a limited cytotoxicity against human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and good anti-proliferative effects against gastric adenocarcinoma cells (AGS) as evaluated by MTT and LDH assays, using doxorubicin as a positive control. Successive analyses revealed that the two most promising representative compounds (12 and 22) could exert their effects by inducing oxidative stress as demonstrated by the hydrogen peroxide release and the morphological changes (cell blebbing) revealed by light microscopy analysis after the haematoxylin-eosin staining. Moreover, to further assess the apoptotic process induced by compounds 12 and 22, Bax expression was measured by flow cytometry. These findings enlarged our knowledge of the structural requirements in this scaffold to display valuable biological effects against cancerous cell lines.
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Dual Carbonic Anhydrase IX/XII Inhibitors and Carbon Monoxide Releasing Molecules Modulate LPS-Mediated Inflammation in Mouse Macrophages. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10010056. [PMID: 33466457 PMCID: PMC7824903 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Low concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO) were reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects when administered in cells by suitable chemotypes such as CO releasing molecules (CO-RMs). In addition, the pH-modulating abilities of specific carbonic anhydrase isoforms played a crucial role in different models of inflammation and neuropathic pain. Herein, we report a series of chemical hybrids consisting of a Carbonic Anhydrase (CA) inhibitor linked to a CO-RM tail (CAI/CO-RMs). All compounds and their precursors were first tested in vitro for their inhibition activity against the human CA I, II, IX, and XII isoforms as well their CO releasing properties, aiming at corroborating the data by means of molecular modelling techniques. Then, their impact on metabolic activity modulation of RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages for 24 and 48 h was assessed with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. The compounds were shown to counteract the inflammatory stimulus as also indicated by the reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) release after treatment. All the biological results were compared to those of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a reference antioxidant compound. Within the series, two CAI/CO-RM hybrids (1 and 2), bearing both the well-known scaffold able to inhibit CAs (acesulfame) and the cobalt-based CO releasing portion, induced a higher anti-inflammatory effect up to 48 h at concentrations lower than NAC.
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