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Borcan F, Vlase T, Vlase G, Popescu R, Soica CM. The Influence of an Isocyanate Structure on a Polyurethane Delivery System for 2'-Deoxycytidine-5'-monophosphate. J Funct Biomater 2023; 14:526. [PMID: 37888191 PMCID: PMC10607123 DOI: 10.3390/jfb14100526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The delivery of nucleosides represents an interesting research trend in recent years due to their application in various viral infections. The main aims of this study were to develop and to characterize polyurethane particles that are intended to be used for the transport of nucleosides. Three samples have been prepared using aliphatic diisocyanates, a mixture of polyethylene glycol, polycaprolactone, and diols, respectively. The samples were characterized through refractivity measurements, drug loading efficacy, release and penetration rate investigations, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, thermal analyses, Zetasizer, SEM, HDFa cells viability, and irritation tests on mice skin. The results indicate the obtaining of particles with sizes between 132 and 190 nm, positive Zeta potential values (28.3-31.5 mV), and a refractivity index around 1.60. A good thermal stability was found, and SEM images show a medium tendency to agglomerate. The samples' color, pH, and electrical conductivity have changed only to a small extent over time, and the evaluations indicate an almost 70% encapsulation efficacy, a prolonged release, and that around 70% of particles have penetrated an artificial membrane in the first 24 h. The synthesized products should be tested in further clinical trials, and the current tests on cell cultures and mice skin revealed no side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- Department I, Advanced Instrumental Screening Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 E. Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Titus Vlase
- Research Center “Thermal Analysis in Environmental Problems”, Faculty of Chemistry, Biology, Geography, West University of Timisoara, 16 Pestalozzi Str., 300115 Timisoara, Romania; (T.V.); (G.V.)
| | - Gabriela Vlase
- Research Center “Thermal Analysis in Environmental Problems”, Faculty of Chemistry, Biology, Geography, West University of Timisoara, 16 Pestalozzi Str., 300115 Timisoara, Romania; (T.V.); (G.V.)
| | - Roxana Popescu
- Department II, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 14A T. Vladimirescu Str., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Codruta M. Soica
- Department II, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 E. Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
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Bora L, Burkard T, Juan MHS, Radeke HH, Muț AM, Vlaia LL, Magyari-Pavel IZ, Diaconeasa Z, Socaci S, Borcan F, Kis B, Muntean D, Dehelean CA, Danciu C. Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil Formulated as Polymeric Micelles Drug Delivery Systems. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2413. [PMID: 36365231 PMCID: PMC9693391 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study presents phytochemical characterization and biological evaluation of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OEO) formulated as polymeric micelles drug delivery systems as a possible non-invasive approach for the management of skin tags. GC-MS analysis of Romanian OEO revealed the identification and quantification of 43 volatile compounds (thymol and carvacrol being the main ones). The antioxidant activity was shown by four consecrated methods: CUPRAC, ABTS, ORAC and DPPH. OEO was incorporated by micellar solubilization into a binary hydrogel based on a Pluronic F 127/L 31 block-copolymers mixture. The pH, consistency, spreadability, particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of the OEO-loaded poloxamer-based binary hydrogel (OEO-PbH) were investigated. OEO-PbH was skin compatible in terms of pH and exhibited adequate spreadability and consistency. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the tested OEO were similar to those obtained for the formulation, lower (2.5 µg/mL) for yeast and higher (40-80 µg/mL) for Gram-negative bacilli. As keratinocytes are among main components of skin tags, an in vitro evaluation was conducted in order to see the effect of the formulation against HaCaT human keratinocytes. OEO-PbH decreased HaCaT cells migration and proliferation and elicited a cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effect in a dose- and time-dependent manner. No harmful effect on the viability of dendritic cells (DCs) was detected following the incubation with different concentrations (0-200 µg/mL) of the 5% formulation. Treatment in inflammatory DCs (+LPS) indicated a decrease in cytokine production of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-23 but no significant effect on IL-10 in any of the tested concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Bora
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Tobias Burkard
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hospital of the Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martina Herrero San Juan
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hospital of the Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Heinfried H. Radeke
- Pharmazentrum Frankfurt/ZAFES, Institute of General Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hospital of the Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ana Maria Muț
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Lavinia Lia Vlaia
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Zinuca Magyari-Pavel
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zorița Diaconeasa
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sonia Socaci
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, 3-5, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Brigitta Kis
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Centre for Gene and Cellular Therapies in the Treatment of Cancer-OncoGen, Clinical County Hospital of Timisoara, Liviu Rebreanu Blvd. 156, 300736 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Delia Muntean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Microbiology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Corina Danciu
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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3
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Ardelean VP, Andrei VL, Miuţa CC, Boros-Balint I, Deak GF, Molnar A, Berki T, Győri F, Geantă VA, Dehelean CA, Borcan F. The KIDSCREEN-27 Quality of Life Measure for Romanian Children Aged 6: Reliability and Validity of the Romanian Version. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10071198. [PMID: 35885725 PMCID: PMC9319028 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10071198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The KIDSCREEN-27 represents a standardized, worldwide instrument, employed to assess the health-related quality of life in children. The purpose of the present study is to validate the KIDSCREEN-27 questionnaire for 6-year-old preparatory school children and verify its reliability, as well as to perform a comparison regarding the quality of children’s lives living in two cities in Romania: Arad, a provincial city, versus the second most developed city in the country, Cluj-Napoca. A total of 256 children of 6 years of age, who come from families with both parents, with a medium to high socioeconomic status and a good health status, were included in the analysis, using the KIDSCREEN-27 questionnaire at three assessment time points with a re-test period of two weeks. Results indicated that the KIDSCREEN-27 turned out to be suitable for use in 6-year-old Romanian children. Analysis regarding the psychometric properties showed that the Cronbach’s alpha ranged from 0.554 to 0.661 at the end of the study. The Pearson correlation coefficients showed statistically significant differences between the items of each area investigated. In conclusion, there is a growing need to periodically monitor the health status of children to avoid possible problems which may occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viorel Petru Ardelean
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, 2-4, Elena Dragoi, 310330 Arad, Romania; (V.L.A.); (C.C.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-743-107182
| | - Vasile Liviu Andrei
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, 2-4, Elena Dragoi, 310330 Arad, Romania; (V.L.A.); (C.C.M.)
| | - Caius Călin Miuţa
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, 2-4, Elena Dragoi, 310330 Arad, Romania; (V.L.A.); (C.C.M.)
| | - Iuliana Boros-Balint
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Babeș-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, 7 Pandurilor Str., 400376 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (I.B.-B.); (G.-F.D.)
| | - Grațiela-Flavia Deak
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Babeș-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, 7 Pandurilor Str., 400376 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (I.B.-B.); (G.-F.D.)
| | - Andor Molnar
- Institute of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Education, University of Szeged, Hattyas u. 10, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (A.M.); (T.B.)
| | - Tamás Berki
- Institute of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Education, University of Szeged, Hattyas u. 10, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (A.M.); (T.B.)
| | - Ferenc Győri
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Physiotherapy and Sport Science, University of Pécs, 4 Vörösmarty u., H-7621 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Vlad Adrian Geantă
- Faculty of Science, Physical Education and Informatics, University of Piteşti, 7 Normal School Alley, 110254 Piteşti, Romania;
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (F.B.)
| | - Florin Borcan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (F.B.)
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Alexa VT, Galuscan A, Soica CM, Cozma A, Coricovac D, Borcan F, Popescu I, Mioc A, Szuhanek C, Dehelean CA, Jumanca D. In Vitro Assessment of the Cytotoxic and Antiproliferative Profile of Natural Preparations Containing Bergamot, Orange and Clove Essential Oils. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27030990. [PMID: 35164253 PMCID: PMC8838259 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27030990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Medicinal plants and essential oils (EOs), in particular, were intensively studied in recent years as viable alternatives for antiproliferative chemical synthetic agents. In the same lines, the present study focuses on investigating the effects of natural preparations (emulsions) based on EOs obtained from Citrus bergamia Risso (bergamot-BEO), Citrus sinensis Osbeck (orange-OEO), and Syzygium aromaticum Merill et L. M. Perry (clove-CEO) on different healthy (human immortalized keratinocytes—HaCaT and primary human gingival fibroblasts—HGF) and human tumor cell lines (human melanoma—A375 and oral squamous carcinoma—SCC-4) in terms of the cells’ viability and cellular morphology. The obtained results indicate that the CEO emulsion (ECEO) induced a dose-dependent cytotoxic in both healthy (HaCaT and HGF) and tumor (A375 and SCC-4) cells. OEO emulsion (EOEO) increased cell viability percentage both for HaCaT and A375 cells and had an antiproliferative effect at the highest concentration in HGF and SCC-4 cells. BEO emulsion (EBEO) decreased the viability percentage of SCC-4 tumor cells. By associating OEO with CEO as a binary mixture in an emulsified formulation, the inhibition of tumor cell viability increases. The E(BEO/OEO) binary emulsion induced an antiproliferative effect on oral health and tumor cells, with a minimal effect on skin cells. The non-invasive tests performed to verify the safety of the test compound’s emulsions at skin level indicated that these compounds do not significantly modify the physiological skin parameters and can be considered safe for human skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlad Tiberiu Alexa
- Department of Preventive, Community Dentistry and Oral Health, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.T.A.); (A.G.); (D.J.)
- Orthodontic Research Center (ORTHO-CENTER), Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Atena Galuscan
- Department of Preventive, Community Dentistry and Oral Health, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.T.A.); (A.G.); (D.J.)
- Translational and Experimental Clinical Research Center in Oral Health (TEXC-OH), Department of Preventive, Community Dentistry and Oral Health, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy 14A TudorVladimirescu Ave., 300173 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Codruța M. Soica
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
- Correspondence: (C.M.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Antoanela Cozma
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Banat’s University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of Romania” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300641 Timisoara, Romania;
- Correspondence: (C.M.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Iuliana Popescu
- Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Banat’s University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of Romania” from Timisoara, Calea Aradului No. 119, 300641 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alexandra Mioc
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Camelia Szuhanek
- Orthodontic Research Center (ORTHO-CENTER), Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniela Jumanca
- Department of Preventive, Community Dentistry and Oral Health, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.T.A.); (A.G.); (D.J.)
- Translational and Experimental Clinical Research Center in Oral Health (TEXC-OH), Department of Preventive, Community Dentistry and Oral Health, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy 14A TudorVladimirescu Ave., 300173 Timisoara, Romania
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Nicolov M, Cocora M, Buda V, Danciu C, Duse AO, Watz C, Borcan F. Hydrosoluble and Liposoluble Vitamins: New Perspectives through ADMET Analysis. Medicina (Kaunas) 2021; 57:1204. [PMID: 34833423 PMCID: PMC8622797 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57111204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The present study demonstrates that apart from the well-known toxicity of liposoluble vitamins, some hydrosoluble vitamins may also exert toxicity; thus, routine supplementation with vitamins or ingestion of fortified foods should not be considered harmless. The study addresses the possible correlations between the physico-chemical properties and the side effects of vitamins when taken in high doses or for a too long a period. Materials and Methods: The FAFDrugs4.0 computational tool was used for computational assessment of the ADMET profile of several hydro- and liposoluble vitamins. Results: ADMET analysis revealed the following major data: vitamin B3 and B13 showed reduced structural complexity; thus, a relative toxicological potential may be exerted. Vitamins B1 and B7 were found to have good oral absorption and thus good bioavailability, while Vitamin B3 was found to have decreased oral absorption. In addition, all of the liposoluble vitamins reflected higher complexity, much greater than most of the potentially therapeutically-proven compounds. Conclusions: The present study emphasizes the importance between the physico-chemical properties of vitamins and their possible toxicological impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Nicolov
- Departament of Pharmaceutical Physics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Mioara Cocora
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Timișoara, 13A Gh Adam Street, 300310 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Valentina Buda
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Communication in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Corina Danciu
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Adina Octavia Duse
- Department of Balneology, Medical Recovery and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Claudia Watz
- Departament of Pharmaceutical Physics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
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6
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Pârvănescu (Pană) RD, Watz CG, Moacă EA, Vlaia L, Marcovici I, Macașoi IG, Borcan F, Olariu I, Coneac G, Drăghici GA, Crăiniceanu Z, Flondor (Ionescu) D, Enache A, Dehelean CA. Oleogel Formulations for the Topical Delivery of Betulin and Lupeol in Skin Injuries-Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization, and Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26144174. [PMID: 34299450 PMCID: PMC8305438 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The skin integrity is essential due to its pivotal role as a biological barrier against external noxious factors. Pentacyclic triterpenes stand as valuable plant-derived natural compounds in the treatment of skin injuries due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and healing properties. Consequently, the primary aim of the current investigation was the development as well as the physicochemical and pharmaco-toxicological characterization of betulin- and lupeol-based oleogels (Bet OG and Lup OG) for topical application in skin injuries. The results revealed suitable pH as well as organoleptic, rheological, and textural properties. The penetration and permeation of Bet and Lup oleogels through porcine ear skin as well as the retention of both oleogels in the skin were demonstrated through ex vivo studies. In vitro, Bet OG and Lup OG showed good biocompatibility on HaCaT human immortalized cells. Moreover, Bet OG exerted a potent wound-healing property by stimulating the migration of the HaCaT cells. The in ovo results demonstrated the non-irritative potential of the developed formulations. Additionally, the undertaken in vivo investigation indicated a positive effect of oleogels treatment on skin parameters by increasing skin hydration and decreasing erythema. In conclusion, oleogel formulations are ideal for the local delivery of betulin and lupeol in skin disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Daniela Pârvănescu (Pană)
- Department VIII—Neuroscience, Discipline of Medical Deontology, Bioethics, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Claudia-Geanina Watz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Physics, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Elena-Alina Moacă
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.-A.M.); (L.V.); Tel.: +40-745-762-600 (E.-A.M.); +40-723-570-499 (L.V.)
| | - Lavinia Vlaia
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.O.); (G.C.)
- Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.-A.M.); (L.V.); Tel.: +40-745-762-600 (E.-A.M.); +40-723-570-499 (L.V.)
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Gabriela Macașoi
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Ioana Olariu
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.O.); (G.C.)
- Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Georgeta Coneac
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.O.); (G.C.)
- Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - George-Andrei Drăghici
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zorin Crăiniceanu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Daniela Flondor (Ionescu)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Enache
- Department VIII—Neuroscience, Discipline of Forensic Medicine, Bioethics, Deontology and Medical Law, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Sipos S, Moacă EA, Pavel IZ, Avram Ş, Crețu OM, Coricovac D, Racoviceanu RM, Ghiulai R, Pană RD, Şoica CM, Borcan F, Dehelean CA, Crăiniceanu Z. Melissa officinalis L. Aqueous Extract Exerts Antioxidant and Antiangiogenic Effects and Improves Physiological Skin Parameters. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26082369. [PMID: 33921730 PMCID: PMC8073307 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Melissa officinalis (MO) is a medicinal plant well-known for its multiple pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer and beneficial effects on skin recovery. In this context, the present study was aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo safety profile of an MO aqueous extract by assessing cell viability on normal (HaCaT-human keratinocytes) and tumor (A375-human melanoma) cells and its impact on physiological skin parameters by a non-invasive method. In addition, the antioxidant activity and the antiangiogenic potential of the extract were verified. A selective cytotoxic effect was noted in A375 cells, while no toxicity was noticed in healthy cells. The MO aqueous extract safety profile after topical application was investigated on SKH-1 mice, and an enhanced skin hydration and decreased erythema and transepidermal water loss levels were observed. The in ovo CAM assay, performed to investigate the potential modulating effect on the angiogenesis process and the blood vessels impact, indicated that at concentrations of 100 and 500 µg/mL, MO aqueous extract induced a reduction of thin capillaries. No signs of vascular toxicity were recorded at concentrations as high as 1000 μg/mL. The aqueous extract of MO leaves can be considered a promising candidate for skin disorders with impaired physiological skin parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Sipos
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Elena-Alina Moacă
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (E.-A.M.); (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
| | - Ioana Zinuca Pavel
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.Z.P.); (Ş.A.)
| | - Ştefana Avram
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.Z.P.); (Ş.A.)
| | - Octavian Marius Crețu
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (E.-A.M.); (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
| | - Roxana-Marcela Racoviceanu
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Ramona Daniela Pană
- Department VIII—Neuroscience, Discipline of Medical Deontology. Bioethics, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Codruţa Marinela Şoica
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (E.-A.M.); (D.C.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (R.-M.R.); (R.G.); (C.M.Ş.)
| | - Zorin Crăiniceanu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. no. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
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Borcan F, Len A, Dehelean CA, Dudás Z, Ghiulai R, Iftode A, Racoviceanu R, Soica CM. Design and Assessment of a Polyurethane Carrier Used for the Transmembrane Transfer of Acyclovir. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2020; 11:nano11010051. [PMID: 33379150 PMCID: PMC7823466 DOI: 10.3390/nano11010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
THE Herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1, HSV-2) are responsible for a wide variety of conditions, from cutaneous-mucosal to central nervous system (CNS) infections and occasional infections of the visceral organs, some of them with a lethal end. Acyclovir is often used intravenously, orally, or locally to treat herpetic infections but it must be administered with caution to patients with kidney disease and to children of early age. The main objectives of this study were to synthesize and evaluate new polyurethane nanoparticles that might be used as proper transmembrane carriers for acyclovir. Polyurethane particles were obtained by a polyaddition process: a mixture of two aliphatic diisocyanates used as organic phase was added to a mixture of butanediol and polyethylene glycol used as aqueous phase. Two different samples (with and without acyclovir, respectively) were synthesized and characterized by UV-Vis spectra in order to assess the encapsulation efficacy and the release profile, FT-IR, DSC, SEM, and SANS for structural characterization, as well as skin irritation tests. Nearly homogeneous samples with particle sizes between 78 and 91 nm have been prepared and characterized revealing a medium tendency to form clusters and a high resistance to heat up to 300 °C. The release profile of these nanoparticles is characteristic to a drug delivery system with a late discharge of the loaded active agents. Very slight increases in the level of transepidermal water loss and erythema were found in a 15-day evaluation on human skin. The results suggest the synthesis of a non-irritative carrier with a high encapsulation efficacy that can be successfully used for the transmembrane transfer of acyclovir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- Department I, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Adél Len
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Centre for Energy Research, H-1121 Budapest, Hungary;
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Cristina A. Dehelean
- Department II, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (A.I.); (R.R.); (C.M.S.)
| | - Zoltán Dudás
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Centre for Energy Research, H-1121 Budapest, Hungary;
- “Coriolan Drăgulescu” Institute of Chemistry, 300223 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (Z.D.); (R.G.); Tel.: +36-1-392-2222/1849 (Z.D.); +40-723-326-823 (R.G.)
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- Department II, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (A.I.); (R.R.); (C.M.S.)
- Correspondence: (Z.D.); (R.G.); Tel.: +36-1-392-2222/1849 (Z.D.); +40-723-326-823 (R.G.)
| | - Andrada Iftode
- Department II, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (A.I.); (R.R.); (C.M.S.)
| | - Roxana Racoviceanu
- Department II, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (A.I.); (R.R.); (C.M.S.)
| | - Codruta M. Soica
- Department II, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (A.I.); (R.R.); (C.M.S.)
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Faur A, Watz C, Moacă EA, Avram Ş, Borcan F, Pinzaru I, Iftode A, Nicolov M, Popovici RA, Raica M, Szuhanek CA, Dehelean C. Correlations on Phenolic Screening Related to In Vitro and In Ovo Assessment of Ocimum basilicum L. Hydro-Alcoholic Extracts Used as Skin Active Ingredient. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25225442. [PMID: 33233640 PMCID: PMC7699777 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25225442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study was aimed to evaluate the phenolic composition parameters of two hydro-alcoholic extracts of Ocimum basilicum L. (OB) obtained from the aerial part (without leaves) and leaves, in order to determine their contribution to the antioxidant activity (AOA). Both hydro-alcoholic extracts have proven to be rich in polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, flavonols and tannins. Therefore, the leaves’ extracts reveal an inhibition percentage of 89%, almost comparable with the standard reference (95%). To complete the toxicological profile, the study also assessed the potential cytotoxicity of basil hydro-alcoholic extracts on immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT), skin human fibroblasts (1BR3), mice epidermis (JB6Cl41-5a) and primary human melanocytes (HEMa) cells, correlated to A375 antitumor in vitro activity. The extracts did not induce significant cytotoxic effect on any of the selected normal cell lines but showed relevant activity on A375 cells. Considering the low values obtained regarding the irritative effects in the chorionallantoic membrane of the egg on blood vessels, we can emphasize that both extracts can be considered as biocompatible ingredients. Regarding the potential activity of hydro-alcoholic extracts on human skin, the decrease of erythema values after the application of extracts was a relevant observation which indicates the anti-inflammatory potential of Ocimum basilicum L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alin Faur
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Angiogenesis Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.F.); (M.R.)
| | - Claudia Watz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Physics, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.W.); (M.N.)
| | - Elena-Alina Moacă
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (A.I.); (C.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-745-762-600
| | - Ştefana Avram
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (A.I.); (C.D.)
| | - Andrada Iftode
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (A.I.); (C.D.)
| | - Mirela Nicolov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Physics, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.W.); (M.N.)
| | - Ramona Amina Popovici
- Department of Management, Legislation and Communication in Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Marius Raica
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Angiogenesis Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.F.); (M.R.)
| | - Camelia A. Szuhanek
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (A.I.); (C.D.)
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Racoviceanu R, Trandafirescu C, Voicu M, Ghiulai R, Borcan F, Dehelean C, Watz C, Aigner Z, Ambrus R, Coricovac DE, Cîrcioban D, Mioc A, Szuhanek CA, Şoica C. Solid Polymeric Nanoparticles of Albendazole: Synthesis, Physico-Chemical Characterization and Biological Activity. Molecules 2020; 25:E5130. [PMID: 33158183 PMCID: PMC7663605 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25215130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Albendazole is a benzimidazole derivative with documented antitumor activity and low toxicity to healthy cells. The major disadvantage in terms of clinical use is its low aqueous solubility which limits its bioavailability. Albendazole was incorporated into stable and homogeneous polyurethane structures with the aim of obtaining an improved drug delivery system model. Spectral and thermal analysis was used to investigate the encapsulation process and confirmed the presence of albendazole inside the nanoparticles. The in vitro anticancer properties of albendazole encapsulated in polyurethane structures versus the un-encapsulated compound were tested on two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, in terms of cellular viability and apoptosis induction. The study showed that the encapsulation process enhanced the antitumor activity of albendazole on the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-23 breast cancer lines. The cytotoxic activity manifested in a concentration-dependent manner and was accompanied by changes in cell morphology and nuclear fragmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Racoviceanu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (C.T.); (C.Ş.)
| | - Cristina Trandafirescu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (C.T.); (C.Ş.)
| | - Mirela Voicu
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (C.T.); (C.Ş.)
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.D.); (D.E.C.)
| | - Claudia Watz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Physics, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Zoltán Aigner
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, 6th Eotvos Str., 6720 Szeged, Hungary; (Z.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Rita Ambrus
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, 6th Eotvos Str., 6720 Szeged, Hungary; (Z.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Dorina Elena Coricovac
- Department of Toxicology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.D.); (D.E.C.)
| | - Denisa Cîrcioban
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Alexandra Mioc
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Physiopathology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Camelia Alexandrina Szuhanek
- Department of Orthodontics, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9th Revolutiei din 1989 Bvd, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Codruţa Şoica
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (C.T.); (C.Ş.)
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Cepeha CM, Paul C, Borlea A, Borcan F, Fofiu R, Dehelean CA, Stoian D. The Value of Strain Elastography in Predicting Autoimmune Thyroiditis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10110874. [PMID: 33121150 PMCID: PMC7692451 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10110874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (CAT) defines a diffuse intrathyroidal lymphocytic infiltration associating a destructive process of the thyroid follicles, most commonly in evolution developing hypothyroidism. Typical ultrasound changes may suggest the presence of the disease. This study aims to evaluate the performance of strain elastography in detecting autoimmune thyroiditis as an additional tool to the conventional ultrasound examination. A total of 250 patients were enrolled in the study; 180 had biochemical confirmation of CAT, the other 70 healthy subjects represented the control group. All patients were examined clinically and by means of conventional thyroid ultrasound (US) and real-time elastography using a Hitachi Preirus machine (5–15 MHz linear probe). Five valid measurements for the parenchyma/muscle strain ratios (SR) were taken for each subject, considering the mean value for analysis. A mean SR value above 1.64 was found to predict the presence of CAT with sensitivity (Sen) 69%, specificity p92%, positive predictive value (PPV) 95.4%, negative predictive value (NPV) 54% and area under receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) 0.87. Moreover, when comparing the mean values for SR, significantly higher values were found in CAT patients compared with the controls (2.81 ± 2.11 vs. 1.03 ± 0.51; p < 0.0001). Of the 180 CAT subjects, 92 were on thyroid hormone replacement therapy; significantly higher values were detected for patients under therapy compared with asymptomatic cases (3.45 ± 2.53 vs. 2.15 ± 1.27, p < 0.0001). A cut-off value of 2.94 was established for identifying CAT patients who needed hormonal treatment (Sen 52.3%, Sp 83.7%, PPV 75.4%, NPV 64.7% and AUROC 0.66). No correlation was found between stiffness and antibody titers nor for functional status. Elastography does add valuable information to the US evaluation of cases with autoimmune thyroiditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Mihaela Cepeha
- PhD School Department, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.M.C.); (R.F.)
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Corina Paul
- Department of Pediatrics, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Andreea Borlea
- PhD School Department, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.M.C.); (R.F.)
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Florin Borcan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.B.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Renata Fofiu
- PhD School Department, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.M.C.); (R.F.)
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.B.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Dana Stoian
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
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Borcan F, Mioc M, Ghiulai R, Pinzaru I, Dehelean CA, Soica CM. A Study on the Behavior of a Polyurethane Drug Carrier in Various pH Media. J Med Life 2020; 13:195-199. [PMID: 32742513 PMCID: PMC7378333 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2020-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyurethane nano- and micro-structures have been studied intensively in the last decade as drug delivery systems for various herbal extracts as well as pure active biological substances. Their biocompatibility, haemocompatibility, safe degradation, and low-cost production are just a few advantages of these materials that were already used in numerous medical applications (catheters, surgical drapes, wound dressing). The primary purposes of this study include obtaining empty polyurethane microstructures and the assessment of their modifications in media with different pH values. A mixture of two aliphatic diisocyanates and an aqueous phase based on a polyether were used during the synthesis process. The size, homogeneity, and surface charge were studied using a Cordouan Technol. Zetasizer, while the pH measurements were conducted with a portable pH Meter Checker®, Hanna Instruments. The results showed the obtaining of an almost homogeneous sample containing microstructures with sizes ranging between 139 and 151 nm, with a pH value of approximately 6.78 and a Zeta potential of 24.6. Expected decreases in microparticles’ sizes were observed in all types of media during a 15-days experiment, but the process was accelerated by a low pH when an increase of the Zeta potential value was noticed as well. Our data provide new information about the degradation process of the polyurethane microstructures on the one hand and the drug release rate of these materials when used as drug carriers, on the other hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Faculty of Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marius Mioc
- "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Faculty of Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Ghiulai
- "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Faculty of Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Faculty of Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Faculty of Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Codruta Marinela Soica
- "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Faculty of Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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Borcan F, Len A, Bordejevic DA, Dudás Z, Tomescu MC, Valeanu AN. Obtaining and Characterization of a Polydisperse System Used as a Transmembrane Carrier for Isosorbide Derivatives. Front Chem 2020; 8:492. [PMID: 32695744 PMCID: PMC7338715 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their effect of vasodilatation, isosorbide nitrates represent one of the most important and most used solutions for angina pectoris. Unfortunately, these compounds have multiple dose-related adverse drug reactions such as headache, weakness, mild dizziness, and occasionally heart rate changes, nausea, vomiting, and sweating. The main aims of this research were to obtain and to evaluate new polyurethane (PU) structures that can be used as a proper transmembrane carrier with an improved release kinetic. Chitosan-based PU structures were obtained by a polyaddition process between hexamethylene diisocyanate and a mixture of chitosan, butanediol, and polyethylene glycol in the presence of caffeine as a synthesis catalyst. The obtained samples (with and without isosorbide nitrates) were characterized regarding the encapsulation and release rate (UV-Vis spectra), chemical composition (FTIR), thermal stability (thermal analysis), morphology changes (SEM and SANS), and in vivo irritation tests. These methods revealed no significant differences between the two sample structures. Multipopulational structures with sizes between 73 and 310 nm, with an increased tendency to form clusters and a high resistance to heat (up to 280°C), were obtained. This study presents an alternative administration of isosorbide derivatives based on a PU carrier with a high biocompatibility and a prolonged release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- The 1st Department (Analytical Chemistry), Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adél Len
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Centre for Energy Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Diana A Bordejevic
- The 5th Department (Internal Medicine I), Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zoltán Dudás
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Centre for Energy Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,"Coriolan Drǎgulescu" Institute of Chemistry, Romanian Academy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela C Tomescu
- The 5th Department (Internal Medicine I), Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adina N Valeanu
- The 2nd Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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Radulescu M, Utescu C, Borcan F, Dumitrascu V, Navolan D, Pavel IZ, Stoian D. Characterization and in vitro Evaluation of a New Levonorgestrel Silver Liposomes. Rev Chim 2020. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.20.4.8083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Levonorgestrel is the most widely used synthetic hormone due in particular to strong progestin and anti-ovulatory effects, without estrogenic effects, being also used in hormone supportive therapy and found in preclinical studies for the prevention / occurrence of malignant processes. In order to be able to eliminate the adverse effects but to benefit at the same time from the beneficial biological effects, the posibility of obtaining effective and safe biocompatible formulations is studied. In the present research silver nanoparticles loaded with lenorgestrel were obtained and were subsequently included in a liposomal transporter system. Physico-chemical characterizations showed good stability of the liposomal systems obtained and dimensions compatible with the biological environment. In vitro data conducted on breast cells (MCF 10A and MCF7) revealed a dose-dependent influence in terms of cell viability with no significant changes at low concentration of samples (0.1 μM), while higher concentration was associated with a decrease of the viable breast adenocarcinoma cells especially in the case of silver nanoparticles.
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15
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Radu G, Luca C, Petrescu L, Bordejevic DA, Tomescu MC, Andor M, Cîtu I, Mavrea A, Buda V, Tomescu C, Borcan F, Dehelean L. The Predictive Value of Endothelial Inflammatory Markers in the Onset of Schizophrenia. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:545-555. [PMID: 32158214 PMCID: PMC7047995 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s240349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to assess the serum levels of intracellular adhesion molecule (sICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM-1), in the first psychotic episode schizophrenia (SZ) patients, before and after six months of antipsychotic treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included 50 patients with a first hospitalization for SZ and 50 healthy control subjects that were patient-matched regarding age, gender, body mass index and smoking status. The evaluation included the presence of cardiovascular risk factors, measurements of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body mass index, smoking status, ankle-brachial index, carotid intima-media thickness, and echocardiography. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) score was calculated for the patients. The plasma levels of fasting glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 were determined at baseline in all subjects and after six months of antipsychotic treatment. Thirty patients (60%) were treated with olanzapine and 20 (40%) with risperidone. RESULTS The average age of patients experiencing their first episode of SZ was 29.7±6.6 years, and 23 (46%) were men. The initial sICAM-1 levels of the patients were lower than those of the control group (P<0.0001), and increased after treatment (P=0.02), but remained lower than in the healthy controls (P=0.026). The initial levels of sVCAM-1 levels were higher in the patients (P<0.0001) and decreased after treatment (P<0.0001) to values that were similar to those of the control group (P=0.39). The only independent predictor of a baseline BPRS over 120 was the baseline sVCAM-1 level (P<0.0001). Antipsychotic treatment induced significant decreases in BPRS score (P<0.0001), in systolic (P=0.005) and diastolic (P<0.0001) blood pressure, in HDL-c (P=0.02), as well as significant increases in blood glucose (P<0.01) and LDL-c (P<0.001), with no differences between olanzapine and risperidone. CONCLUSION In the patients experiencing an FEP of SZ, the levels of sICAM-1 were lower, while the levels of sVCAM-1 were higher than in the healthy control subjects. The antipsychotics used in the treatment of schizophrenia increased sICAM-1 and decreased sVCAM. The baseline level of sVCAM-1 was an independent predictor of a BPRS score >120 at baseline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Radu
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania.,City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Constantin Luca
- Department of Cardiology, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Lucian Petrescu
- Department of Cardiology, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Diana Aurora Bordejevic
- City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania.,Department of Cardiology, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Cleopatra Tomescu
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania.,City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Minodora Andor
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania.,City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Cîtu
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania.,City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Adelina Mavrea
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania.,City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Valentina Buda
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Cătălin Tomescu
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania.,City Emergency Hospital Timisoara, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Liana Dehelean
- Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
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Avram S, Mernea M, Limban C, Borcan F, Chifiriuc C. Potential Therapeutic Approaches to Alzheimer's Disease By Bioinformatics, Cheminformatics And Predicted Adme-Tox Tools. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:696-719. [PMID: 31885353 PMCID: PMC7536829 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666191230120053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is considered a severe, irreversible and progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Currently, the pharmacological management of AD is based on a few clinically approved acethylcholinesterase (AChE) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor ligands, with unclear molecular mechanisms and severe side effects. METHODS Here, we reviewed the most recent bioinformatics, cheminformatics (SAR, drug design, molecular docking, friendly databases, ADME-Tox) and experimental data on relevant structurebiological activity relationships and molecular mechanisms of some natural and synthetic compounds with possible anti-AD effects (inhibitors of AChE, NMDA receptors, beta-secretase, amyloid beta (Aβ), redox metals) or acting on multiple AD targets at once. We considered: (i) in silico supported by experimental studies regarding the pharmacological potential of natural compounds as resveratrol, natural alkaloids, flavonoids isolated from various plants and donepezil, galantamine, rivastagmine and memantine derivatives, (ii) the most important pharmacokinetic descriptors of natural compounds in comparison with donepezil, memantine and galantamine. RESULTS In silico and experimental methods applied to synthetic compounds led to the identification of new AChE inhibitors, NMDA antagonists, multipotent hybrids targeting different AD processes and metal-organic compounds acting as Aβ inhibitors. Natural compounds appear as multipotent agents, acting on several AD pathways: cholinesterases, NMDA receptors, secretases or Aβ, but their efficiency in vivo and their correct dosage should be determined. CONCLUSION Bioinformatics, cheminformatics and ADME-Tox methods can be very helpful in the quest for an effective anti-AD treatment, allowing the identification of novel drugs, enhancing the druggability of molecular targets and providing a deeper understanding of AD pathological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Mernea
- Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95th Spl. Independentei, Bucharest, Romania; Tel/Fax: ++4-021-318-1573; E-mail:
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Gurita (Ciobotaru) VG, Pavel IZ, Borcan F, Moaca A, Danciu C, Diaconeasa Z, Imbrea I, Vlad D, Dumitrascu V, Pop G. Toxicological Evaluation of Some Essential Oils Obtained from Selected Romania Lamiaceae Species in Complex with Hydroxypropyl - gamma-cyclodextrin. Rev Chim 2019. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.19.10.7628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Medicinal plants are highly investigated due to their multiple effects in human health. In the last two decades, plants belonging to Lamiaceae family have emerged as an important source of compounds with beneficial effects in various pathologies. Many species of the Lamiaceae family have a high volatile oil content which can be found in different parts of the plant. Some representative examples include Lavandula spp. Salvia spp. and Mentha spp. which are species with essential oils studied for antioxidant, antimicrobial and antitumor effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of six essential oils at skin level before and after encapsulation in hydroxypropyl-gamma-cyclodextrins. Results indicated that regardless of the tested form, the samples did not display an irritating or toxic effect at skin level, suggesting that the essential oils can be used in different formulations for topical application.
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Borcan F, Chirita-Emandi A, Andreescu NI, Borcan LC, Albulescu RC, Puiu M, Tomescu MC. Synthesis and preliminary characterization of polyurethane nanoparticles with ginger extract as a possible cardiovascular protector. Int J Nanomedicine 2019; 14:3691-3703. [PMID: 31190819 PMCID: PMC6535673 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s202049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aim: The extract of ginger, obtained from the rhizome of Zingiber officinale, contains 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, 8-gingerol, and 10-gingerol. It has many therapeutic effects such as being chemopreventive against stroke and heart diseases, malabsorption, bacterial infections, indigestion, and nausea, which have been observed since ancient times. The main aim of this study is to evaluate the polyurethane (PU) as a proper material for the hollow nanoparticles' preparation. Methods: The PU nanoparticles were obtained by a spontaneous emulsification, in the presence of a nonionic surfactant, combined with an interfacial polyaddition process between an aliphatic diisocyanate and different mixtures of etheric and esteric polyols. The synthesis was done without any PU additives, such as catalysts, blowing agents, chains promoters, cross-linking agents, and stabilizers. Results: The particles present almost neutral pH values and low water solubility. They are heat resistant up to 280°C. Decreased irritation level was found in the assay of PU nanoparticles loaded with pure ginger extract (GE) on the murine skin tests than the irritation level recorded for pure GE. Conclusion: This research shows the reduced noxiousness of these PU nanoparticles and consequently the possibility of their use as a possible cardiovascular protector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- The 1st Department (Analytical Chemistry), Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adela Chirita-Emandi
- The 2nd Department (Genetics), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Center of Genomic Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Ioana Andreescu
- The 2nd Department (Genetics), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Center of Genomic Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Livia-Cristina Borcan
- The 5th Department (Internal Medicine I), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ramona Carmen Albulescu
- The 11th Department (Pediatrics), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Maria Puiu
- The 2nd Department (Genetics), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Center of Genomic Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Cleopatra Tomescu
- The 5th Department (Internal Medicine I), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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Borcan LC, Dudas Z, Len A, Fuzi J, Borcan F, Tomescu MC. Synthesis and characterization of a polyurethane carrier used for a prolonged transmembrane transfer of a chili pepper extract. Int J Nanomedicine 2018; 13:7155-7166. [PMID: 30464465 PMCID: PMC6228046 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s181667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Red chili peppers have been highly valued in gastronomy and traditional medicine since ancient times; it seems that it is not just an ingredient for food but also a good remedy for various medical conditions such as increased blood pressure and high levels of serum triglycerides and cholesterol, myocardial infarction, arthritis, and migraines. The objective of this study is the characterization of a new carrier used for encapsulated extract. Methods Chili pepper extract was obtained and was physically entrapped inside polyurethane microparticles in order to diminish the irritative potential of this extract. The particles were evaluated by Zetasizer measurements, small-angle neutron scattering and thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; the encapsulation efficacy and the drug release profile were assessed by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Bioevaluations on mice skin were performed to predict the irritative potential of the samples. Results Two different types of samples were compared: hollow polyurethane microparticles vs polyurethane particles containing the natural extract. The sizes of the particles were very similar, but the sample containing the extract presents three particle populations (the polydispersity index increases from 0.3 to 0.6 from one sample to another). The zeta-potential measurements and SEM images indicate a medium tendency to form clusters, while the UV-Vis study revealed an almost 70% encapsulation efficacy. Conclusion The results suggest that encapsulation of a chili pepper extract inside polyurethane microparticles leads to a non-irritative product with a prolonged release: ~30% of encapsulated extract is released within the first 8 days and a maximum 45% is reached in 2 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia-Cristina Borcan
- The 5th Department (Internal Medicine I), Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zoltan Dudas
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Inorganic Department, Institute of Chemistry, Romanian Academy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adel Len
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Janos Fuzi
- Neutron Spectroscopy Department, Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Florin Borcan
- The 1st Department (Analytical Chemistry), Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania,
| | - Mirela Cleopatra Tomescu
- The 5th Department (Internal Medicine I), Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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Duicu OM, Pavel IZ, Borcan F, Muntean DM, Cheveresan A, Bratu EA, Rusu LC, Karancsi OL. Characterization of the Eugenol Effects on the Bioenergetic Profile of SCC-4 Human Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line. Rev Chim 2018. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.18.9.6577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Eugenol (EU), the active ingredient in clove oil, is commonly used as successful therapeutic compound in dentistry due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. Recent research studies suggest that eugenol has also a potential anti-cancer effect. This study was thereby purported to assess the effects of EU on the bioenergetic profile of the SCC-4 human squamous cell carcinoma cell line. To this aim, SCC-4 cells were treated for 24 hours with free EU and EU incorporated in polyurethane structures (50 �M each). Oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) were measured using the Seahorse XF-24e extracellular flux analyzer (Agilent Technologies Inc.). Analysis of the SCC-4 bioenergetic profile was performed in the presence of the classic modulators of the electron transport chain: oligomycin, FCCP, and antimycin A+rotenone. Our data showed that cells stimulated with free EU induced a decrease of OCR linked parameters and an increase of ECAR, effects that were abolished by the incorporation of EU in polyurethane structures. In conclusion, free eugenol elicits inhibitory effects on mitochondrial respiration in the SCC-4 cell line, a result that might be suggestive for its anti-tumoral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Speranta Avram
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adina-Luminita Milac
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Livia-Cristina Borcan
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dan Mihailescu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Miguel Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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22
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Munteanu MF, Ardelean A, Borcan F, Trifunschi SI, Gligor R, Ardelean SA, Coricovac D, Pinzaru I, Andrica F, Borcan LC. Mistletoe and Garlic Extracts as Polyurethane Carriers - A Possible Remedy for Choroidal Melanoma. Curr Drug Deliv 2018; 14:1178-1188. [PMID: 28128068 DOI: 10.2174/1567201814666170126113231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is known as the most dangerous form of skin cancer; whereas the malignant choroidal melanoma is an orphan disease known as the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. Literature suggests that the consumption of garlic and mistletoe leads to a reduced risk of developing cancer. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was the obtaining and the characterization of polymer structures containing mistletoe or garlic extract. METHODS The structures were obtained in a polyaddition process combined with a spontaneous emulsification; they were characterized by pH, size, Zeta potential and DSC measurements, evaluation of encapsulation efficacy, penetrability through membranes and in vitro cytotoxicity tests. RESULTS The microstructures present sizes between 1.05 and 2.60 µm and Zeta potentials between -7 and +36 mV. A good encapsulation was observed on different evaluations (88-92%). It was determined that approx. 30% of polymer microstructures containing vegetal extracts pass through an artificial membrane in 4 days. An in vitro cytotoxicity test revealed that these products are safe for administration. The analysis of antitumor efficacy indicates that garlic extracts have important effects after 48 and 72 hours on A375 cells; however, polymer microstructures with herbal extracts did not reveal antiproliferative activities on A375 cells because these polymer structures present a slow degradation. CONCLUSION Sterile eye drops solutions based on polymer microstructures containing garlic or mistletoe extracts were obtained; the sample based on garlic extracts may be used in the pharmaceutical field as drug carrier with an antiproliferative effect which occurs after a prolong period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melania F Munteanu
- Faculty of General Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" University, Arad, Arad. Romania
| | - Aurel Ardelean
- Faculty of General Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" University, Arad, Arad. Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara. Romania
| | - Svetlana I Trifunschi
- Faculty of General Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" University, Arad, Arad. Romania
| | - Ramona Gligor
- Faculty of General Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" University, Arad, Arad. Romania
| | - Simona A Ardelean
- Faculty of General Medicine, Pharmacy and Dental Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" University, Arad, Arad. Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara. Romania
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara. Romania
| | - Florina Andrica
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara. Romania
| | - Livia-Cristina Borcan
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara. Romania
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Iftode A, Marti TD, Voicu M, Simu S, Heghes A, Borcan F, Motoc A. Evaluation of a Skin Carcinoma Xenograft Mice Model Supplemented by Chemical Immunosuppression. Rev Chim 2017. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.17.9.5831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
As we know today, cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of a single cell. This development is triggered by mutations, changes in DNA that affect genes in such a way that they increase cancer cells. In the present study, an experimental model based on skin carcinoma xenograft mice was developed and tested. There were studied: the mice weight, the tumor volume, and the evolution of different skin parameters such as transepidermal water loss (TWL), erythema and the hydration level of stratum corneum; mice were divided in four groups: a control group, a group of mice injected with physiological saline solution, another one with immunosuppression, and a group of mice with immunosuppression and xenograft of A375 cells. The results indicate that administration of cyclophosphamide significantly reduced the number of neutrophils and lymphocytes and last two mice groups revealed more pronounced modifications of skin parameters compared to first two groups.
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Pinzaru IA, Rusu L, Dehelean CA, Coricovac D, Borcan F. Evaluation of eugenol polyurethane nanostructures toxicological statement. Toxicol Lett 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.07.958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Oprean C, Zambori C, Borcan F, Soica C, Zupko I, Minorics R, Bojin F, Ambrus R, Muntean D, Danciu C, Pinzaru IA, Dehelean C, Paunescu V, Tanasie G. Anti-proliferative and antibacterial in vitro evaluation of the polyurethane nanostructures incorporating pentacyclic triterpenes. Pharm Biol 2016; 54:2714-2722. [PMID: 27159077 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2016.1180538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Oleanolic and ursolic acids are antitumor and antibacterial agents which are extensively studied. Their major disadvantage is the poor water solubility which limits their applications. OBJECTIVES Oleanolic and ursolic acid were encapsulated into polyurethane nanostructures that act as drug carriers. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the particles, anti-microbial and anti-proliferative activity compared to un-encapsulated active compounds was tested. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using an interfacial polycondensation technique, combined with spontaneous emulsification, structures with nanoscale dimensions were obtained. Scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray assays confirmed the encapsulation process. Concentrations of 10 and 30 μM particles and un-encapsulated compounds were tested by MTT viability assay for several breast cancer lines, with an exposure time of 72 h. For the antibacterial studies, the dilution method with MIC determination was used. RESULTS Ursolic acid had an excellent inhibitory effect with IC50 value of 2.47, 1.20, 1.26 and 1.34 μM on MCF7, T47D, MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-361, respectively. Oleanolic acid did not show anti-proliferative activity. The pure compounds showed their antibacterial activity only against Bacillus species and Candida albicans, but MIC values were too high to be considered efficient antimicrobial agents (2280 and 4570 μg mL - 1, respectively). Polyurethane nanoparticles which incorporated the agents did not show any biological activity. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Although the active compounds did not fully exert their anti-proliferative activity following encapsulation inside polymeric nanoparticles, in vivo evaluation is needed in order to obtain an exhaustive conclusion, as the active compounds could be released as a result of metabolic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camelia Oprean
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Csilla Zambori
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Florin Borcan
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Codruta Soica
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Istvan Zupko
- c Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy , University of Szeged , Szeged , Hungary
| | - Renata Minorics
- c Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy , University of Szeged , Szeged , Hungary
| | - Florina Bojin
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Rita Ambrus
- d Department of Pharmaceutical Technology , University of Szeged , Szeged , Hungary
| | - Delia Muntean
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Corina Danciu
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Iulia Andreea Pinzaru
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Virgil Paunescu
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
| | - Gabriela Tanasie
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş" , Timişoara , România
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Oprean C, Borcan F, Pavel I, Dema A, Danciu C, Soica C, Dehelean C, Nicu A, Ardelean A, Cristea M, Ivan A, Tatu C, Bojin F. In Vivo Biological Evaluation of Polyurethane Nanostructures with Ursolic and Oleanolic Acids on Chemically-induced Skin Carcinogenesis. In Vivo 2016; 30:633-8. [PMID: 27566083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Oleanolic and ursolic acids (OA and UA) are two pentacyclic triterpenes, ubiquitously spread in plants, previously known for their chemopreventive capacity on different types of cancer. The major pharmacological disadvantage of these phytocompounds is their poor water solubility, which often limits their applicability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using the interfacial polycondensation combined with spontaneous emulsification technique, polyurethane nanostructures (PU) were synthetized in order to improve this problem. In order to test the in vivo chemopreventive potential of the two pure compounds, as well as the encapsulated compounds in PU used as drug carriers, a chemically-induced skin carcinogenesis model was constructed. RESULTS UA and OA have a moderate chemopreventive activity against tumors induced by 7,12-dimethylbenzantracene (DMBA) and 12-O-tetradecanoilphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) application. Incorporation of active agents in PU did not lead to increased chemopreventive effect. CONCLUSION PU is not a suitable formulation of UA and OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camelia Oprean
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analitical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Pavel
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alis Dema
- Department of Morphopathology, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Corina Danciu
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Codruta Soica
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Nicu
- Student at Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Anamaria Ardelean
- Student at Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirabela Cristea
- "Pius Brinzeu" Timişoara County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Ivan
- Department of Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Calin Tatu
- Department of Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florina Bojin
- Department of Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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Avram S, Mernea M, Borcan F, Mihailescu D. Evaluation of the Therapeutic Properties of Mastoparan- and Sifuvirtide- Derivative Antimicrobial Peptides Using Chemical Structure-Function Relationship - in vivo and in silico Approaches. Curr Drug Deliv 2016; 13:202-10. [DOI: 10.2174/1567201813666151113122139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Mernea M, Borcan LC, Borcan F, Avram S. Antipsychotics as Psychosis Drugs and Neuroprotective Promoters Evaluated by Chemical QSAR - in silico and in vivo Studies. LETT DRUG DES DISCOV 2016. [DOI: 10.2174/1570180812666150924000107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Stoian D, Pantea S, Margan M, Timar B, Borcan F, Craina M, Craciunescu M. Individualized Follow-up of Pregnant Women with Asymptomatic Autoimmune Thyroid Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17010088. [PMID: 26771604 PMCID: PMC4730331 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17010088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal hormones are essential for the normal fetal development during pregnancy. Autoimmune thyroid disease is a frequent pathology in our iodine replete region. The aim of this study is to evaluate the occurrence of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in cases with known autoimmune thyroid disease, which were in a euthyroid state prior to pregnancy, and to assess the association between supplemental treatments administered and the outcome of the pregnancy. The study is a prospective interventional controlled study. The two cohorts comprise the interventional group, consisting of 109 pregnant women with known autoimmune asymptomatic thyroid disease, without any levothyroxine (LT4) treatment and an aged-matched control group, with an unknown thyroid disease. After the pregnancy, a monthly evaluation of TSH, FT3, and FT4 was performed. Offspring evaluation was made at birth time. 88.8% of the women developed SCH in the first four weeks of pregnancy. Average LT4 doses increased as the pregnancy progressed. The monthly adjustment was 12.5 or 25 μg. All SCH cases developed in the first trimester of pregnancy. There was no significant difference regarding the gestational week, weight, or length at birth between the interventional group and controls, when TSH values were in the optimal range, during the whole pregnancy. Premature birth was described in one case in the interventional group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Stoian
- Obstetrics Gynecology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Stelian Pantea
- Surgery Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Madalin Margan
- Obstetrics Gynecology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Bogdan Timar
- Medical Informatics Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Florin Borcan
- Analytical Chemistry Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Marius Craina
- Obstetrics Gynecology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Mihaela Craciunescu
- Microbiology Department, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timisoara 300041, Romania.
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Buiu C, Avram S, Duda-Seiman D, Milac AL, Duda-Seiman C, Pacureanu L, Borcan F. More effective DPP4 inhibitors as antidiabetics based on sitagliptin applied QSAR and clinical methods. Curr Comput Aided Drug Des 2015; 10:237-49. [PMID: 25756669 DOI: 10.2174/157340991003150302230811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Xanthine-based molecules such as serine protease dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors are compounds often used in improving glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients and also used for their effects as mild stimulants and as bronchodilators, notably in treating asthma symptoms. Here, we aim to better understand the molecular features affecting activity of xanthine-based DPP4 inhibitors such as sitagliptin and related compounds and use these features to de novo predict improved sitagliptin derivatives. To this end, we performed a clinical study to examine the efficacy and safety of once-daily 100 mg oral sitagliptin as monotherapy in Romanian patients with type 2 diabetes. This study indicates that sitagliptin effectively decreases the glycemic level and provides very good glycemic equilibrium. To predict putative new drugs with identical pharmacological effects at lower dosages, we generate QSAR models based on compound series containing 35 DPP4 inhibitors. We establish that the physicochemical parameters critical for DPP4 inhibitory activity are: hydrophobicity described by the logarithm of the octanol/water partition coefficient, counts of rotatable bonds, hydrogen bond donor and acceptor atoms, and topological polar surface area. The predictive power of our QSAR models is indicated by significant values of statistical coefficients: cross-validated correlation q2 (0.77), fitted correlation coefficient r2 (0.85) and standard error of prediction (0.34). Based on the established QSAR equations, we propose and analyse 19 new sitagliptin derivatives with possibly improved pharmacological effect as DPP4 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Adina L Milac
- Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy,296th Independentei Str., Bucharest-060031, Romania.
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Danciu C, Borcan F, Soica C, Zupko I, Csányi E, Ambrus R, Muntean D, Sass C, Antal D, Toma C, Dehelean C. Polyurethane Microstructures-a Good or Bad in vitro Partner for the Isoflavone Genistein? Nat Prod Commun 2015. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1501000640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years polyurethane microstructures (PM) have gained increasing attention in the pharmaceutical field due to the importance of their practical application. Since finding that such a formulation with genistein could improve its applications, we have conducted a preliminary study regarding the in vitro antiproliferative (MCF7, MDA-MB-231 and T47D) and antimicrobial ( Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enteritidis (D), Bacillus subtilis, B. cereus, and Candida albicans) activity in order to test whether polyurethane micro structuresre present a good option for further modulation of genistein's bioavailability. It was concluded that the polyurethane micro structures are a bad in vitro partner for the isoflavone genistein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Danciu
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
| | - Codruta Soica
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
| | - Istvan Zupko
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Eotvos u. 6, Szeged H-6720, Hungary
| | - Erzsébet Csányi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Szeged, Eotvos u. 6, Szeged H-6720, Hungary
| | - Rita Ambrus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Szeged, Eotvos u. 6, Szeged H-6720, Hungary
| | - Delia Muntean
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
| | - Camelia Sass
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
| | - Diana Antal
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
| | - Claudia Toma
- Department of Pharmacognosy, “Vasile Goldis” Western University of Arad, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş“, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041, Timişoara, România
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Duda-Seiman D, Duda-Seiman C, Borcan F, Borcan LC, Mancas S, Avram S. Calcium Channel Blockers--Benefits Upon Vascular Biology in Hypertensive Patients. Cardiovasc Hematol Agents Med Chem 2015; 13:54-62. [PMID: 26245661 DOI: 10.2174/187152571301150730115442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Calcium channel blockers (CCB) are widely used in cardiovascular medicine expressing high hopes upon decreasing cardiovascular risk, morbidity and mortality. Here, the potency of CCBs on 58 Romanian asymptomatic hypertensive patients, with no atherothrombotic cardiovascular disease, was studied by clinical and in silico methods. In our study, arterial elasticity/stiffness was assessed; anthropometric, metabolic (lipidic) parameters were quantified. We concluded that lercanidipine 10 mg once daily, during three weeks, is able to dramatically improve central aortic systolic blood pressure, aortic pulse wave velocity. Lipid profile improvement is an essential condition to improve elastic vascular properties in order to decrease the risk for further cardiovascular events. Besides, the potency of lercanidipine is expressed as the contribution of molecular descriptors (van der Waals and solvent accessible surface areas), electronic (molecular polarisability) and hydrophobic (water/octanol partition coefficient) by means of blocker effect on calcium channel, compared with cilnidipine and other 30 dihydropyridines, using molecular simulation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd E.Murgu Sq., Timisoara-300041, Romania.
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Avram S, Borcan F, Borcan LC, Milac AL, Mihailescu D. QSAR Approaches Applied to Antidepressants Induced Neurogenesis--in vivo and in silico Applications. Mini Rev Med Chem 2015; 16:230-40. [PMID: 26349492 DOI: 10.2174/1389557515666150909144215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Brain presents very complex advanced protective mechanisms. However, these mechanisms occasionally fail due to risk factors represented by genetic, environmental or social stress and consequently, severe psychiatric disorders such as depression, schizophrenia or psychotic depression are induced. Under such circumstances, latest strategies in experimental and in silico neuroscience consider essential to identify new applications of already clinically-approved drugs for the treatment of psychiatric disorders but also as promoters of neurogenesis and neurites outgrowth. Results of recent studies suggested that antidepressants are able to induce neurogenesis and neurites outgrowth by their agonistic effects on 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor (5-HT), especially 5-HT 1A, and sigma1 receptor (σ1R), but many molecular aspects of these processes are still unclear. Here we present structural aspects of molecular complexes (5-HT 1A and σ1R and their ligands) revealed by experimental and in silico studies. Here we present the chemical structures-biological activity relationship (SAR) of these molecules revealed by recent experimental and in silico studies, offering a new perspective on the antidepressants mechanism as neurogenesis and neurites outgrowth promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dan Mihailescu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd E. Murgu Sq., Timisoara-300041, Romania.
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Soica C, Oprean C, Borcan F, Danciu C, Trandafirescu C, Coricovac D, Crăiniceanu Z, Dehelean CA, Munteanu M. The synergistic biologic activity of oleanolic and ursolic acids in complex with hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin. Molecules 2014; 19:4924-40. [PMID: 24747649 PMCID: PMC6271422 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19044924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Oleanolic and ursolic acids are natural triterpenic compounds with pentacyclic cholesterol-like structures which gives them very low water solubility, a significant disadvantage in terms of bioavailability. We previously reported the synthesis of inclusion complexes between these acids and cyclodextrins, as well as their in vivo evaluation on chemically induced skin cancer experimental models. In this study the synergistic activity of the acid mixture included inside hydroxypropyl-gamma-cyclodextrin (HPGCD) was monitored using in vitro tests and in vivo skin cancer models. The coefficient of drug interaction (CDI) was used to characterize the interactions as synergism, additivity or antagonism. Our results revealed an increased antitumor activity for the mixture of the two triterpenic acids, both single and in complex with cyclodextrin, thus proving their complementary biologic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Codruţa Soica
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Camelia Oprean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Florin Borcan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Corina Danciu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Cristina Trandafirescu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Zorin Crăiniceanu
- Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., Timişoara 300041, Romania.
| | - Melania Munteanu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Sanitary Chemistry, "Vasile Goldis" University, 1 Feleacului Str., Arad 310396, Romania.
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Danciu C, Soica C, Oltean M, Avram S, Borcan F, Csanyi E, Ambrus R, Zupko I, Muntean D, Dehelean CA, Craina M, Popovici RA. Genistein in 1:1 inclusion complexes with ramified cyclodextrins: theoretical, physicochemical and biological evaluation. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:1962-82. [PMID: 24473144 PMCID: PMC3958832 DOI: 10.3390/ijms15021962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Genistein is one of the most studied phytocompound in the class of isoflavones, presenting a notable estrogenic activity and in vitro and/or in vivo benefits in different types of cancer such as those of the bladder, kidney, lung, pancreatic, skin and endometrial cancer. A big inconvenience for drug development is low water solubility, which can be solved by using hydrophilic cyclodextrins. The aim of this study is to theoretically analyze, based on the interaction energy, the possibility of a complex formation between genistein (Gen) and three different ramified cyclodextrins (CD), using a 1:1 molar ratio Gen:CD. Theoretical data were correlated with a screening of both in vitro and in vivo activity. Proliferation of different human cancer cell lines, antimicrobial activity and angiogenesis behavior was analyzed in order to see if complexation has a beneficial effect for any of the above mentioned activities and if so, which of the three CDs is the most suitable for the incorporation of genistein, and which may lead to future improved pharmaceutical formulations. Results showed antiproliferative activity with different IC50 values for all tested cell lines, remarkable antimicrobial activity on Bacillus subtilis and antiangiogenic activity as revealed by CAM assay. Differences regarding the intensity of the activity for pure and the three Gen complexes were noticed as explained in the text. The data represent a proof that the three CDs can be used for furtherer research towards practical use in the pharmaceutical and medical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Danciu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Codruta Soica
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Mircea Oltean
- Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, Kogalniceanu 1, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Stefana Avram
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Florin Borcan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Erzsebet Csanyi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Szeged, 6 Eotvos Str, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Rita Ambrus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Szeged, 6 Eotvos Str, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Istvan Zupko
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, 6 Eotvos Str, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Delia Muntean
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Cristina A Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Marius Craina
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
| | - Ramona A Popovici
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babeş", Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania,.
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Heghes A, Soica CM, Ardelean S, Ambrus R, Muntean D, Galuscan A, Dragos D, Ionescu D, Borcan F. Influence of emulsifiers on the characteristics of polyurethane structures used as drug carrier. Chem Cent J 2013; 7:66. [PMID: 23575277 PMCID: PMC3637569 DOI: 10.1186/1752-153x-7-66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Emulsifiers have a significant role in the emulsion polymerization by reducing the interfacial tension thus increasing the stability of colloidal dispersions of polymer nanostructures. This study evaluates the impact of four emulsifiers on the characteristics of polyurethane hollow structures used as drug delivery system. Results Polyurethane (PU) structures with high stability and sizes ranging from nano- to micro-scale were obtained by interfacial polyaddition combined with spontaneous emulsification. The pH of PU aqueous solutions (0.1% w/w) was slightly acidic, which is acceptable for products intended to be used on human skin. Agglomerated structures with irregular shapes were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The synthesized structures have melting points between 245-265°C and reveal promising results in different evaluations (TEWL, mexametry) on murine skin. Conclusions In this study hollow PU structures of reduced noxiousness were synthesized, their size and stability being influenced by emulsifiers. Such structures could be used in the pharmaceutical field as future drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Heghes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes", University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd E, Murgu Sq, Timisoara 300041, Romania.
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Danciu C, Borcan F, Bojin F, Zupko I, Dehelean C. Effect of the isoflavone genistein on tumor size, metastasis potential and melanization in a B16 mouse model of murine melanoma. Nat Prod Commun 2013; 8:343-346. [PMID: 23678808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The isoflavonoid genistein, the aglycone of the heteroside genistin, possesses preventive effect on coronary heart disease and osteoporosis, antioxidant, anthelmintic, antineoplastic and anti-inflammatory properties. Much research has been undertaken regarding the action of genistein on cancer-preventing/treating effects, especially on breast and prostate cancer. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of this compound in vivo by observing tumor size, metastasis potential and melanization in a mouse model of murine melanoma, employing the B164A5 melanoma cell line and C57BL/6J mice. Genistein decreased the tumor volume and weight by approximately 30%. Non-invasive measurements for both melanin and erythema showed that genistein reduced the quantity of melanin and the degree of erythema in direct proportion to the number of days of treatment. HE analysis diagnosed malignant melanoma in both groups, but no metastasis was recorded in the treated group compared with the liver metastasis in the untreated group after a period of 15 days of experiment at a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight of genistein. Genistein showed beneficial effects regarding tumor size, metastasis potential and melanization in a B16 mouse model of murine melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Danciu
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babeş" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania.
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Danciu C, Borcan F, Bojin F, Zupko I, Dehelean C. Effect of the Isoflavone Genistein on Tumor Size, Metastasis Potential and Melanization in a B16 Mouse Model of Murine Melanoma. Nat Prod Commun 2013. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1300800318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The isoflavonoid genistein, the aglycone of the heteroside genistin, possesses preventive effect on coronary heart disease and osteoporosis, antioxidant, anthelmintic, antineoplastic and anti-inflammatory properties. Much research has been undertaken regarding the action of genistein on cancer-preventing/treating effects, especially on breast and prostate cancer. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of this compound in vivo by observing tumor size, metastasis potential and melanization in a mouse model of murine melanoma, employing the B164A5 melanoma cell line and C57BL/6J mice. Genistein decreased the tumor volume and weight by approximately 30%. Non-invasive measurements for both melanin and erythema showed that genistein reduced the quantity of melanin and the degree of erythema in direct proportion to the number of days of treatment. HE analysis diagnosed malignant melanoma in both groups, but no metastasis was recorded in the treated group compared with the liver metastasis in the untreated group after a period of 15 days of experiment at a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight of genistein. Genistein showed beneficial effects regarding tumor size, metastasis potential and melanization in a B16 mouse model of murine melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Danciu
- Departmentof Pharmacognosy, EftimieMurgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Toxicology, EftimieMurgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Florina Bojin
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, EftimieMurgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Istvan Zupko
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Eotvos u. 6., Szeged H-6720, Hungary
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Departmentof Pharmacognosy, EftimieMurgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
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Borcan F, Bolcu C, Filimon N, Bandur G. The synthesis and characterization of the polyurethanes with antimicrobial properties. e-Polymers 2012. [DOI: 10.1515/epoly.2012.12.1.933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIn this experimental research, thin polyurethane films containing reactive functional groups (hydroxyl and amino groups) were synthesized. The raw materials used in the synthesis are: a hydroxyl component (Elastoflex W5516/115) and an isocyanate component (semiprepolimer type) based on 4,4'- diphenylmethane-diisocyanate (MDI) or toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI). Two different antibiotics were adsorbed on these films: amikacin and ceftazidime which formed physical bonds with the polyurethane matrix. The films were characterized by SEM, DMA and a culture of Escherichia coli and a counting room was used in order to determine the antimicrobial efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- 1Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dept., 2nd E. Murgu Sq., Timisoara-300041, Romania; fax +40-356-814179
| | - Constantin Bolcu
- 2West University Timisoara, Faculty of Chemistry, Biology and Geography, Biology-Chemistry Dept., 16th Pestalozzi Str., Timisoara-300115, Romania; fax +40-256-592620
| | - Nicoleta Filimon
- 2West University Timisoara, Faculty of Chemistry, Biology and Geography, Biology-Chemistry Dept., 16th Pestalozzi Str., Timisoara-300115, Romania; fax +40-256-592620
| | - Geza Bandur
- 3Politehnica” University Timisoara, Faculty of Industrial Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, CAICON Dept., 6th C. Telbisz Str., Timisoara-300001, Romania; fax +40-256-403060
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Avram S, Buiu C, Duda-Seiman D, Duda-Seiman C, Borcan F, Mihailescu D. Evaluation of the pharmacological descriptors related to the induction of antidepressant activity and its prediction by QSAR/QRAR methods. Mini Rev Med Chem 2012; 12:467-76. [PMID: 22587763 DOI: 10.2174/138955712800493834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2010] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Antidepressants are psychiatric agents used for the treatment of different types of depression, being at present amongst the most commonly prescribed drugs, while their effectiveness and adverse effects are still the subject of many studies. To reduce the inefficiency of known antidepressants caused by their side-effects, many research efforts have recently focused on the development of improved strategies for new antidepressants drug design. For this reason it is necessary to apply very fast and precise techniques, such as QSAR (Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships) and QRAR (Quantitative Retention-Activity Relationship), which are capable to analyze and predict the biological activity for these structures, taking in account the possible changes of the molecular structures and chromatographic parameters. We discuss the pharmaceutical descriptors (van der Waals, electrostatic, hydrophobicity, hydrogen donor/acceptor bond, Verloop's parameters, polar area) involved in QSAR and also chromatographic parameters involved in QRAR studies of antidepressants. Antidepressant activities of alkanol piperazine, acetamides, arylpiperazines, thienopyrimidinone derivatives (as preclinical antidepressants) and also the antidepressants already used in clinical practice are mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Avram
- Dept. of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, University of Bucharest, Faculty of Biology, 91-95 Spl. Independentei, Bucharest-076201, Romania.
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Borcan F, Soica CM, Ganta S, Amiji MM, Dehelean CA, Munteanu MF. Synthesis and preliminary in vivo evaluations of polyurethane microstructures for transdermal drug delivery. Chem Cent J 2012; 6:87. [PMID: 22892194 PMCID: PMC3483215 DOI: 10.1186/1752-153x-6-87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polymers have been considered as important materials in fabrication of microstructures for various medical purposes including drug delivery. This study evaluates polyurethane as material for hollow microstructures preparation. Results Polyurethane microstructures were obtained by interfacial polyaddition combined with spontaneous emulsification and present slightly acid pH values. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the existence of irregular shapes and agglomerated microstructures. The material is heat resistant up to 280°C. Good results were recorded on murine skin tests in case of polyurethane microstructures based on isophorone diisocyanate. Mesenchymal stem cells viability presents good results for the same sample after 48 hours based on the Alamar Blue test. Conclusions The research revealed the reduced noxiousness of this type of microstructures and consequently the possibility of their use for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Borcan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd E, Murgu Sq,, Timisoara, 300041, Romania.
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Cîntă-Pînzaru S, Dehelean CA, Soica C, Culea M, Borcan F. Evaluation and differentiation of the Betulaceae birch bark species and their bioactive triterpene content using analytical FT-vibrational spectroscopy and GC-MS. Chem Cent J 2012; 6:67. [PMID: 22808999 PMCID: PMC3410787 DOI: 10.1186/1752-153x-6-67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aiming to obtain the highest triterpene content in the extraction products, nine bark samples from the forest abundant flora of Apuseni Mountains, Romania were Raman spectroscopically evaluated. Three different natural extracts from Betula pendula Roth birch bark have been obtained and characterized using Fourier transform vibrational spectra. Results This study shows that principal components of the birch tree extract can be rapidly recognized and differentiated based on their vibrational fingerprint band shape and intensity. The vibrational spectroscopy results are supported by the GC-MS data. Based on IR and Raman analysis, one can conclude that all the extracts, independent on the solvent(s) used, revealed dominant betulin species, followed by lupeol. Conclusions Since Raman measurements could also be performed on fresh plant material, we demonstrated the possibility to apply the present results for the prediction of the highest triterpene content in bark species, for the selection of harvesting time or individual genotypes directly in the field, with appropriate portable Raman equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cîntă-Pînzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq,, Timişoara, 300041, Romania.
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Cîntă-Pînzaru S, Dehelean CA, Soica C, Culea M, Borcan F. Evaluation and differentiation of the Betulaceae birch bark species and their bioactive triterpene content using analytical FT-vibrational spectroscopy and GC-MS. Chem Cent J 2012. [PMID: 22808999 DOI: 10.1186/1752-153x-6–67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aiming to obtain the highest triterpene content in the extraction products, nine bark samples from the forest abundant flora of Apuseni Mountains, Romania were Raman spectroscopically evaluated. Three different natural extracts from Betula pendula Roth birch bark have been obtained and characterized using Fourier transform vibrational spectra. RESULTS This study shows that principal components of the birch tree extract can be rapidly recognized and differentiated based on their vibrational fingerprint band shape and intensity. The vibrational spectroscopy results are supported by the GC-MS data. Based on IR and Raman analysis, one can conclude that all the extracts, independent on the solvent(s) used, revealed dominant betulin species, followed by lupeol. CONCLUSIONS Since Raman measurements could also be performed on fresh plant material, we demonstrated the possibility to apply the present results for the prediction of the highest triterpene content in bark species, for the selection of harvesting time or individual genotypes directly in the field, with appropriate portable Raman equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cîntă-Pînzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq,, Timişoara, 300041, Romania.
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Avram S, Mihailescu D, Borcan F, Milac AL. Prediction of improved antimicrobial mastoparan derivatives by 3D-QSAR-CoMSIA/CoMFA and computational mutagenesis. Monatsh Chem 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s00706-011-0713-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Avram S, Buiu C, Borcan F, Milac AL. More effective antimicrobial mastoparan derivatives, generated by 3D-QSAR-Almond and computational mutagenesis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 8:587-94. [DOI: 10.1039/c1mb05297g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Avram S, Duda-Seiman D, Borcan F, Radu B, Duda-Seiman C, Mihailescu D. Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of New Mastoparan Derivatives Using QSAR and Computational Mutagenesis. Int J Pept Res Ther 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-010-9235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Avram S, Duda-Seiman DM, Duda-Seiman C, Borcan F, Mihailescu D. Predicted binding rate of new cephalosporin antibiotics by a 3D-QSAR method: a new approach. Monatsh Chem 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s00706-010-0294-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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