Trackable Liposomes for In Vivo Delivery Tracing toward Personalized Medicine Care under NIR Light on Skin Tumor

We report an near-infrared (NIR)-trackable and therapeutic liposome with skin tumor specificity. Liposomes with a hydrodynamic diameter of ∼20 nm are tracked under the vein visualization imaging system in the presence of loaded paclitaxel and NIR-active agents. The ability to track liposome nanocarriers is recorded on the tissue-mimicking phantom model and in vivo mouse veins after intravenous administration. The trackable liposome delivery provides in vitro and in vivo photothermal heat (∼40 °C) for NIR-light-triggered area-specific chemotherapeutic release. This approach can be linked with a real-time vein-imaging system to track and apply area-specific local heat, which hitchhikes liposomes from the vein and finally releases them at the tumor site. We conducted studies on mice skin tumors that indicated the disappearance of tumors visibly and histologically (H&E stains). The ability of nanocarriers to monitor after administration is crucial for improving the effectiveness and specificity of cancer therapy, which could be achieved in the trackable delivery system.

Longevity Spinach (Gynura procumbens) Ameliorated Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Mediators in Cisplatin-Induced Organ Dysfunction in Rats: Comprehensive in vivo and in silico Studies

This study focused to assess the efficacy of Gynura procumbens (GP) leaf extract against cisplatin (CP)-induced hepatorenal complications in Wister albino rats. Additionally, it aims to detect polyphenolic compounds using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). The rats were treated intraperitoneally with CP (7.5 mg/kg) to mediate hepatorenal damage. They were then treated with GP extract (75 and 150 mg/kg, P.O.) for 7 consecutive days. Although GP extract significantly ameliorated CP-mediated hepatorenal biomarkers like alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in a dose-dependent manner, GP extract at 150 mg/kg dose normalized hepatorenal biomarkers ALP (45.11 U/L), ALT (34 U/L), AST (29 U/L), creatinine (10.3 mg/dl) and BUN (11.19 mg/dl) while comparing to control and disease group. Similarly, though it significantly reduced CP-induced oxidative stress inducers, including nitric oxide (NO) and advanced oxidative protein products (AOPP), higher dose (150 mg/kg) exhibited better activity in reducing NO (281.54 mmol/gm tissue in liver and 52.73 mmol/gm tissue in the kidney) and AOPP (770.95 mmol/mg protein in liver and 651.90 mmol/mg protein in the kidney). Besides, it showed better enhancement in the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, and glutathione levels at a higher dose (150 mg/kg). Histopathological studies showed that CP caused collagen accumulation in the liver and kidney tissues. GP extract drained the collagen mass and acted against hepatorenal damage. Ellagic acid, gallic acid, quercetin hydrate, kaempferol, and rutin hydrate were revealed in GP extract. In-silico modelling showed good docking scores of the polyphenolic compounds with molecular targets including CYP4502E1, NF-κB, caspase-3, and TNF-α. GP could be an effective therapeutic option for management of anticancer drugs' complications like CP-induced organ damage, although clinical studies are required to establish herbal formulation.

Virtual screening of flavonoids as potential RIPK1 inhibitors for neurodegeneration therapy

Background

Global prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease is increasing gradually, whereas approvals of successful therapeutics for central nervous system disorders are inadequate. Accumulating evidence suggests pivotal roles of the receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) in modulating neuroinflammation and necroptosis. Discoveries of potent small molecule inhibitors for RIPK1 with favorable pharmacokinetic properties could thus address the unmet medical needs in treating neurodegeneration.

Methods

In a structure-based virtual screening, we performed site-specific molecular docking of 4,858 flavonoids against the kinase domain of RIPK1 using AutoDock Vina. We predicted physicochemical descriptors of the top ligands using the SwissADME webserver. Binding interactions of the best ligands and the reference ligand L8D were validated using replicated 500-ns Gromacs molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations.

Results

From Vina docking, we shortlisted the top 20 flavonoids with the highest binding affinities, ranging from -11.7 to -10.6 kcal/mol. Pharmacokinetic profiling narrowed down the list to three orally bioavailable and blood-brain-barrier penetrant flavonoids: Nitiducarpin, Pinocembrin 7-O-benzoate, and Paratocarpin J. Next, trajectories of molecular dynamics simulations of the top protein-ligand complexes were analyzed for binding interactions. The root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) was 1.191 Å (±0.498 Å), 1.725 Å (±0.828 Å), 1.923 Å (±0.942 Å), 0.972 Å (±0.155 Å) for Nitiducarpin, Pinocembrin 7-O-benzoate, Paratocarpin J, and L8D, respectively. The radius of gyration (Rg) was 2.034 nm (±0.015 nm), 2.0.39 nm (± 0.025 nm), 2.053 nm (±0.021 nm), 2.037 nm (±0.016 nm) for Nitiducarpin, Pinocembrin 7-O-benzoate, Paratocarpin J, and L8D, respectively. The solvent accessible surface area (SASA) was 159.477 nm2 (±3.021 nm2), 159.661 nm2 (± 3.707 nm2), 160.755 nm2 (±4.252 nm2), 156.630 nm2 (±3.521 nm2), for Nitiducarpin, Pinocembrin 7-O-benzoate, Paratocarpin J, and L8D complexes, respectively. Therefore, lower RMSD, Rg, and SASA values demonstrated that Nitiducarpin formed the most stable complex with the target protein among the best three ligands. Finally, 2D protein-ligand interaction analysis revealed persistent hydrophobic interactions of Nitiducarpin with the critical residues of RIPK1, including the catalytic triads and the activation loop residues, implicated in the kinase activity and ligand binding.

Conclusion

Our target-based virtual screening identified three flavonoids as strong RIPK1 inhibitors, with Nitiducarpin exhibiting the most potent inhibitory potential. Future in vitro and in vivo studies with these ligands could offer new hope for developing effective therapeutics and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by neurodegeneration.

Computational analysis and molecular dynamics simulation of high-risk single nucleotide polymorphisms of the ADAM10 gene

Polymorphisms of the disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 10 (ADAM10) are linked to pathophysiological changes in lung inflammation, cancer, Alzheimer's disease (AD), encephalopathy, liver fibrosis, and cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we predicted the pathogenicity of ADAM10 non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) in a wide array of mutation analyzing bioinformatics tools. We retrieved 423 nsSNPs from dbSNP-NCBI for the analysis, and 13 were predicted deleterious by each of the ten tools: SIFT, PROVEAN, CONDEL, PANTHER-PSEP, SNAP2, SuSPect, PolyPhen-2, Meta-SNP, Mutation Assessor and Predict-SNP. Further assessment of amino acid sequences, homology models, conservation profiles, and inter-atomic interactions identified C222G, G361E and C639Y as the most pathogenic mutations. We validated this prediction through structural stability analysis using DUET, I-Mutant Suite, SNPeffect and Dynamut. Molecular dynamics simulations and principal component analysis also indicated considerable instability of the C222G, G361E and C639Y variants. Therefore, these ADAM10 nsSNPs could be candidates for diagnostic genetic screening and therapeutic molecular targeting.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Screening of plasma IL-6 and IL-17 in Bangladeshi lung cancer patients

Lung cancer is responsible for causing one of the highest numbers of cancer deaths. In Bangladesh, both men and women are affected by lung cancer, and environmental contaminants are believed to be one of the main risk factors apart from smoking. The diagnosis of lung cancer is difficult due to the delicate structure and complexity of the lungs. Diagnosis in later stages results in a poor prognosis of the disease. Tissue biopsy is the most reliable way of identifying lung cancer, but it is invasive and requires identification of the primary neoplasm within the lungs. As inflammation is involved in carcinogenesis, circulating levels of cytokines might be elevated in patients during the early stages of cancer. Increased IL-6 levels have been associated with the promotion of tumor growth, and IL-17 is believed to aid metastasis of lung cancer. In this study, the use of IL-6 and IL-17 was investigated as diagnostic markers for lung cancer. IL-6 and IL-17 levels were compared between 35 lung cancer patients and 19 healthy individuals. IL-6 levels were markedly elevated (7.417 pg/mL) in lung cancer cases compared to the controls (0.970 pg/mL), indicating a positive correlation (p < 0.05). IL-17 levels were only slightly higher in lung cancer patients (9.400 pg/mL) compared to healthy individuals (8.922 pg/mL). Both IL-6 and IL-17 levels were higher in patients with adenocarcinoma compared with other subtypes of lung cancer. Treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy did not significantly affect IL-6 levels. However, IL-17 levels were reduced due to cancer treatment. Further studies with larger sample sizes assessing the IL-6 and IL-17 in lung cancer patients are needed to establish the diagnostic role of the two cytokines.

Combination of epigallocatechin 3 gallate and curcumin improves D-galactose and normal-aging associated memory impairment in mice

Previously, we observed curcumin improves aging-associated memory impairment in D-galactose (D-gal) and normal-aged (NA) mice. Evidence showed that multiple agents can be used in managing aging-induced memory dysfunction, drawn by the contribution of several pathways. Curcumin and Epigallocatechin 3 gallate (EGCG) combination substantially reduced the oxidative stress that commonly mediates aging. This study examined the combined effect of EGCG and curcumin on memory improvement in two recognized models, D-gal and normal-aged (NA) mice. The co-administration of EGCG and curcumin significantly (p < 0.05) increased retention time detected by passive avoidance (PA) and freezing response determined in contextual fear conditioning (CFC) compared to the discrete administration of EGCG or curcumin. Biochemical studies revealed that the combination of EGCG and curcumin remarkably ameliorated the levels (p < 0.05) of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, advanced oxidation protein products, nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation compared to the monotherapy of EGCG or curcumin in mice hippocampi. The behavioral and biochemical studies revealed that the combination of EGCG and curcumin showed better improvement in rescuing aging-associated memory disorders in mice. EGCG and curcumin combination could serve as a better choice in managing aging-related memory disorders.

Factors Driving Antimicrobial Resistance in Rural Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study on Antibiotic Use-Related Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Among Unqualified Village Medical Practitioners and Pharmacy Shopkeepers

INTRODUCTION

Inappropriate antibiotic use in community settings significantly contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally, compromising the quality of life and threatening public health. This study aimed to identify AMR contributing factors by analyzing the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of the unqualified village medical practitioners and pharmacy shopkeepers in rural Bangladesh.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study where the participants were pharmacy shopkeepers and unqualified village medical practitioners aged ≥ 18 years and living in Sylhet and Jashore districts in Bangladesh. Primary outcome variables were knowledge, attitude, and practice of antibiotic use and AMR.

RESULTS

Among the 396 participants, all were male aged between 18 and 70 years, 247 were unqualified village medical practitioners, and 149 were pharmacy shopkeepers, and the response rate was 79%. Participants showed moderate to poor knowledge (unqualified village medical practitioners, 62.59%; pharmacy shopkeepers, 54.73%), positive to neutral attitude (unqualified village medical practitioners, 80.37%, pharmacy shopkeepers, 75.30%), and moderate practice (unqualified village medical practitioners, 71.44%; pharmacy shopkeepers, 68.65%) scores regarding antibiotic use and AMR. The KAP score range was 40.95-87.62%, and the mean score was statistically significantly higher for unqualified village medical practitioners than pharmacy shopkeepers. Multiple linear regression analysis suggested that having a bachelor's degree, pharmacy training, and medical training were associated with higher KAP scores.

CONCLUSION

Our survey results demonstrated that unqualified village medical practitioners and pharmacy shopkeepers in Bangladesh possess moderate to poor knowledge and practice scores on antibiotic use and AMR. Therefore, awareness campaigns and training programs targeting unqualified village medical practitioners and pharmacy shopkeepers should be prioritized, antibiotic sales by pharmacy shopkeepers without prescriptions should be strictly monitored, and relevant national policies should be updated and implemented.

Amelioration of CCl4-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity by Ganoderma lucidum in long evans rats

Liver disease is a serious health problem affecting people worldwide at an alarming rate. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Ganoderma lucidum against CCl₄-induced liver toxicity in rats. The experimental Long Evans rats were divided into five groups, of which four groups were treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). Among the CCl₄ treated groups, one of the groups was treated with silymarin and two of them with ethanolic extract of G. lucidum at 100 and 200 mg/Kg body weight. The oxidative stress parameters and endogenous antioxidant enzyme concentrations were assessed by biochemical tests. Liver enzymes ALT, AST, and ALP were determined spectrophotometrically. Histopathological examinations were carried out to assess hepatic tissue damage and fibrosis. Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) was performed to determine the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β genes. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis revealed that G. lucidum is rich in several phytochemicals including 6-Octadecanoic acid (55.81%), l-( +)-Ascorbic acid 2,6-dihexadecanoate (18.72%), Cis-11-Eicosenamide (5.76%), and Octadecanoic acid (5.26%). Treatment with the G. lucidum extract reduced the elevated ALT, AST, ALP levels, and cellular oxidative stress markers and increased the endogenous antioxidant levels. Histopathology observations revealed that the inflammation, infiltration of immune cells, and aberration of collagen fibers in the hepatocytes were altered by the G. lucidum treatment. The increased expression of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-1 β, and IL-6 were markedly suppressed by G. lucidum extract treatment. G. lucidum also prevented the suppression of protective IL-10 expression by CCl₄. This study strongly suggests that G. lucidum extract possesses significant hepatoprotective activity as evidenced by reduced oxidative stress and inflammation mediated by suppression in inflammatory cytokine expression and increased protective IL-10 cytokine expression.

Post-market quality assessment of 22 ciprofloxacin brands by HPLC available in Bangladesh market

Antibiotic resistance has been recognized as a public health threat in recent years, and mortality due to resistance is increasing alarmingly every year. Antibiotic resistance, among many factors, may arise due to the consumption of substandard antibiotic brands that provide subnormal levels of the drug in the blood. Post-market evaluation can provide important information in assessing pharmaceutical products in terms of quality, purity, and therapeutic aspects. Ciprofloxacin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been used against a wide range of infectious diseases in Bangladesh. The present study aimed to determine the quality attributes of twenty-two commonly prescribed brands of ciprofloxacin 500 mg tablet collected from Dhaka city and the rural regions of Jessore. RP-HPLC coupled with UV-visible spectrophotometry was used to determine the potency of ciprofloxacin in tablets, and the zone of inhibition was determined using Kirby-Bauer's disc diffusion method to assess the antimicrobial efficacy against different strains of microorganisms. We found that 95.45% of brands (21 out of 22 brands) of ciprofloxacin tablets met United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) and British Pharmacopoeia (BP) specified potency, whereas one brand failed. From dissolution studies, we observed that 68.2% of brands (15 out of 22 brands) followed USP/NF dissolution test specifications, whereas 31.8% (7 out of 22 brands) failed to release 80% of the labeled amount of drug within 30 min. Drug release kinetics data showed that most brands followed the Weibull drug release kinetic model. Fit factor analysis exhibited that 8 brands out of 22 (36.4%) failed to comply similar dissolution profiles with the reference product. Minimum inhibitory concentrations, assessed against five bacterial strains, further showed good antimicrobial sensitivity by all brands.

Polymorphisms of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) gene contribute to cervical cancer susceptibility in Bangladeshi women: A case-control study

Background and Aims

Cervical cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth in the lining of cervix and it is the second major cause of cancer-related deaths among females in Bangladesh. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine that has been heavily linked with cervical cancer. Our aim was to investigate the association of two promoter single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IL-6 (rs1800795 and rs1800797) with the susceptibility of cervical cancer in Bangladeshi women.

Methods

DNA was extracted from venous blood samples from cervical cancer patients (n = 126) and healthy controls (n = 120). Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism was used for genotyping of the selected SNPs. Logistic regression was performed to calculate the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and p values.

Results

We found a significant association between rs1800795 and rs1800797 polymorphisms and cervical cancer. For, rs1800795 (G > C) the GC heterozygous genotype (OR = 2.80, 95% CI = 1.55-5.07, p = 0.0007) and CC mutant homozygous genotype (OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.29-9.51, p = 0.014) conferred an increased risk of cervical cancer. In case of rs1800797 (G > A) polymorphism, the AG heterozygous genotype (OR = 6.94, 95% CI = 3.76-12.81, p < 0.0001) and AA mutant homozygous genotype (OR = 3.88, 95% CI = 1.12-13.51, p = 0.0332) also exhibited an elevated risk of cervical cancer. Use of contraceptives was found as risk factor and patients who smoke were carriers of both the risk alleles and thus had an increased risk of cervical cancer.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that polymorphism of rs1800795 and rs1800797 of the IL-6 gene play a significant role in cervical cancer susceptibility in Bangladeshi women.

Nanostructured chitosan-polyphenolic patch for remote NIR-photothermal controlled dermal drug delivery

We describe the synthesis of a nanostructured dermal patch composed of chitosan-tannic acid (CT) that can carry near-infrared (NIR) active Indocyanine green (ICG) dye for performing photothermal heat conversion activity. The NIR-responsive CT-I dermal patch can deliver topical antibiotic drugs (Neomycin). The CT-I and drug-loaded CT-I/N patches have been demonstrated by FTIR, SEM/EDX, TGA, and DSC analysis. The in vitro drug release from the CT-I/N patch are favorable in the dermal environment (pH = 5.5) and significantly increases 25 % more at higher temperatures of 40 to 45 °C. The CT-I/N showed increasing photothermal heat in response to NIR (808 nm) light. The in vivo thermograph demonstrated that the CT-I/N patch can generate >45 °C within 5 min NIR irradiation. As a result, sustained wound healing was shown in H&E (hematoxylin and eosin) staining dermal tissue. Such NIR-active nanostructure film/patch is promising for the future of any sustained on-demand drug delivery system.

Coenzyme Q10 ameliorates carbofuran induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in wister rats

Carbofuran is a widely used poisonous pesticide around the world that helps to control insects during farming. Upon oral ingestion to humans, it exaggerates oxidative stress in various organs like the liver, brain, kidney, and heart. Several studies reported that oxidative stress in the liver initiates and propagates hepatic cell necrosis, ultimately resulting in hepatotoxicity. It also reported that coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) can neutralize oxidative stress due to its antioxidant properties. However, the hepatoprotective and nephroprotective role of CoQ10 against carbofuran toxicity has not been investigated. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective and nephroprotective role of CoQ10 in carbofuran-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in a mouse model for the first time. We determined the blood serum diagnostic markers, oxidative stress parameters, antioxidant system, and histopathological characteristics of liver and kidney tissues. The administration of 100 mg/kg of CoQ10 in carbofuran-treated rats significantly attenuated AST, ALT, ALP, serum creatinine, and BUN levels. Moreover, CoQ10 (100 mg/kg) remarkably altered the level of NO, MDA, AOPP, GSH, SOD, and CAT in both the liver and kidney. The histopathological data also unveiled that CoQ10 treatment prevented inflammatory cell infiltration in carbofuran-exposed rats. Therefore, our findings infer that CoQ10 may effectively protect liver and kidney tissues against carbofuran-induced oxidative hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Microbial sensitivity of the common pathogens for UTIs are declining in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic patients in Bangladesh: An institution-based retrospective study

Background

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most recurrent infections in the community and healthcare settings. Although many studies related with microbial sensitivity (MS) of uropathogens (UPs) to antibiotics have been done in Bangladesh, no conclusive study has compared antibiotic sensitivity (AS) to UPs in diabetic and non-diabetic patients. The aim of the study is to find out whether there is a difference in AS in common UPs between diabetic and non-diabetic UTI patients.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on 833 patients. The data was collected from different diagnostic centers located within Dhaka city in Bangladesh, and the data was analyzed using convenient statistical tools.

Results

We have studied a total of 833 UTI patients. Out of 833 patients, 664 were diabetic and 169 were non-diabetic patients respectively. Among the studied population, females were found to be more inclined to have UTIs as compared to males. E. coli was found to be the leading UPs in our study. Patients within the age of 20-34 were more vulnerable to UTI in both groups. Imipenem and meropenem showed 100% sensitivity against E. coli, Staphylococcus and Klebsiella in non-diabetic patients, while both antibiotics showed lower sensitivity to the same organisms in diabetic patients. Antibiotics like nitrofurantoin (p ≤ 0.0002), ceftazidime (p ≤ 0.0124) and ceftriaxone (p ≤ 0.0168) showed less sensitivity to E. coli in diabetic UTI patients as compared to non-diabetic UTI patients. Overall sensitivity patterns elucidated that all the studied antibiotics, except ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, showed lower sensitivity against UPs in diabetic while compared to non-diabetic UTI patients (p= <0.05 to 0.0001).

Conclusion

We found significant difference in microbial sensitivity in patients with diabetes compared to non-diabetic UTI patients. Diabetes changes the pathophysiological state of the uropathogens leading to the declining sensitivity of the antibiotics in diabetic patients with UTIs.

Prevalence and determinants of contraceptive method use among Bangladeshi women of reproductive age: a multilevel multinomial analysis

BACKGROUND

Much scholarly debate has centered on Bangladesh's family planning program (FPP) in lowering the country's fertility rate. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of using modern and traditional contraceptive methods and to determine the factors that explain the contraceptive methods use.

METHODS

The study used data from the 2017-18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS), which included 11,452 (weighted) women aged 15-49 years in the analysis. Multilevel multinomial logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with the contraceptive method use.

RESULTS

The prevalence of using modern contraceptive methods was 72.16%, while 14.58% of women used traditional methods in Bangladesh. In comparison to women in the 15-24 years age group, older women (35-49 years) were more unwilling to use modern contraceptive methods (RRR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.21-0.37). Women who had at least a living child were more likely to use both traditional and modern contraceptive methods (RRR: 4.37, 95% CI: 3.12-6.11). Similarly, given birth in the previous 5 years influenced women 2.41 times more to use modern method compared to those who had not given birth (RRR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.65-3.52). Husbands'/partners' decision for using/not using contraception were positively associated with the use of both traditional (RRR: 4.49, 95% CI: 3.04-6.63) and modern methods (RRR: 3.01, 95% CI: 2.15-4.17) rather than using no method. This study suggests rural participants were 21% less likely to utilize modern methods than urban participants (RRR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.67-0.94).

CONCLUSION

Bangladesh remains a focus for contraceptive use, as it is one of the most populous countries in South Asia. To lower the fertility rate, policymakers may design interventions to improve awareness especially targeting uneducated, and rural reproductive women in Bangladesh. The study also highlights the importance of male partners' decision-making regarding women's contraceptive use.

Wastewater-based epidemiological surveillance to monitor the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in developing countries with onsite sanitation facilities

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a valuable approach for forecasting disease outbreaks in developed countries with a centralized sewage infrastructure. On the other hand, due to the absence of well-defined and systematic sewage networks, WBE is challenging to implement in developing countries like Bangladesh where most people live in rural areas. Identification of appropriate locations for rural Hotspot Based Sampling (HBS) and urban Drain Based Sampling (DBS) are critical to enable WBE based monitoring system. We investigated the best sampling locations from both urban and rural areas in Bangladesh after evaluating the sanitation infrastructure for forecasting COVID-19 prevalence. A total of 168 wastewater samples were collected from 14 districts of Bangladesh during each of the two peak pandemic seasons. RT-qPCR commercial kits were used to target ORF1ab and N genes. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 genetic materials was found in 98% (165/168) and 95% (160/168) wastewater samples in the first and second round sampling, respectively. Although wastewater effluents from both the marketplace and isolation center drains were found with the highest amount of genetic materials according to the mixed model, quantifiable SARS-CoV-2 RNAs were also identified in the other four sampling sites. Hence, wastewater samples of the marketplace in rural areas and isolation centers in urban areas can be considered the appropriate sampling sites to detect contagion hotspots. This is the first complete study to detect SARS-CoV-2 genetic components in wastewater samples collected from rural and urban areas for monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic. The results based on the study revealed a correlation between viral copy numbers in wastewater samples and SARS-CoV-2 positive cases reported by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) as part of the national surveillance program for COVID-19 prevention. The findings of this study will help in setting strategies and guidelines for the selection of appropriate sampling sites, which will facilitate in development of comprehensive wastewater-based epidemiological systems for surveillance of rural and urban areas of low-income countries with inadequate sewage infrastructure.

An opinion on Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring (WBEM) with Clinical Diagnostic Test (CDT) for detecting high-prevalence areas of community COVID-19 Infections

Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring (WBEM) is an efficient surveillance tool during the COVID-19 pandemic as it meets all requirements of a complete monitoring system including early warning, tracking the current trend, prevalence of the disease, detection of genetic diversity as well asthe up-surging SARS-CoV-2 new variants with mutations from the wastewater samples. Subsequently, Clinical Diagnostic Test is widely acknowledged as the global gold standard method for disease monitoring, despite several drawbacks such as high diagnosis cost, reporting bias, and the difficulty of tracking asymptomatic patients (silent spreaders of the COVID-19 infection who manifest nosymptoms of the disease). In this current reviewand opinion-based study, we first propose a combined approach) for detecting COVID-19 infection in communities using wastewater and clinical sample testing, which may be feasible and effective as an emerging public health tool for the long-term nationwide surveillance system. The viral concentrations in wastewater samples can be used as indicatorsto monitor ongoing SARS-CoV-2 trends, predict asymptomatic carriers, and detect COVID-19 hotspot areas, while clinical sampleshelp in detecting mostlysymptomaticindividuals for isolating positive cases in communities and validate WBEM protocol for mass vaccination including booster doses for COVID-19.

A QbD Approach to Design and to Optimize the Self-Emulsifying Resveratrol-Phospholipid Complex to Enhance Drug Bioavailability through Lymphatic Transport

Objectives: Despite having profound therapeutic value, the clinical application of resveratrol is restrained due to its <1% bioavailability, arising from the extensive fast-pass effect along with enterohepatic recirculation. This study aimed to develop a self-emulsifying formulation capable of increasing the bioavailability of resveratrol via lymphatic transport. Methods: The resveratrol−phospholipid complex (RPC) was formed by the solvent evaporation method and characterized by FTIR, DSC, and XRD analyses. The RPC-loaded self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) was designed, developed, and optimized using the QbD approach with an emphasis on resveratrol transport through the intestinal lymphatic pathway. The in vivo pharmacokinetic study was investigated in male Wister Albino rats. Results: The FTIR, DSC, and XRD analyses confirmed the RPC formation. The obtained design space provided robustness of prediction within the 95% prediction interval to meet the CQA specifications. An optimal formulation (desirability value of 7.24) provided Grade-A self-emulsion and exhibited a 48-fold bioavailability enhancement compared to the pure resveratrol. The cycloheximide-induced chylomicron flow blocking approach demonstrated that 91.14% of the systemically available resveratrol was transported through the intestinal lymphatic route. Conclusions: This study suggests that an optimal self-emulsifying formulation can significantly increase the bioavailability of resveratrol through lymphatic transport to achieve the desired pharmacological effects.

A computational study to target necroptosis via RIPK1 inhibition

The human receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) is a critical necroptosis regulator implicated in cancer, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Currently, there are no specific RIPK1 antagonists in clinical practice. In this study, we took a target-based computational approach to identify blood-brain-barrier-permeable potent RIPK1 ligands with novel chemotypes. Using molecular docking, we virtually screened the Marine Natural Products (MNP) library of 14,492 small molecules. Initial 18 hits were subjected to detailed ADMET profiling for bioavailability, brain penetration, druglikeness, and toxicities and eventually yielded 548773-66-6 as the best ligand. RIPK1 548773-66-6 binding was validated through duplicated molecular dynamics (MD) simulations where the co-crystallized ligand L8D served as a reference. Trajectory analysis indicated negligible Root-Mean-Square-Deviations (RMSDs) of the best ligand 548773-66-6 relative to the protein backbone: 0.156 ± 0.043 nm and 0.296 ± 0.044 nm (mean ± standard deviations) in two individual simulations. Visual inspection confirmed that 548773-66-6 occupied the RIPK1 ligand-binding pocket associated with the kinase activation loop. Further computations demonstrated consistent hydrogen bond interactions of the ligand with the residue ASP156. Binding free energy estimation also supported stable interactions of 548773-66-6 and RIPK1. Together, our in silico analysis predicted 548773-66-6 as a novel ligand for RIPK1. Therefore, 548773-66-6 could be a viable lead for inhibiting necroptosis in central nervous system inflammatory disorders.

Curcumin improves D-galactose and normal-aging associated memory impairment in mice: In vivo and in silico-based studies

Aging-induced memory impairment is closely associated with oxidative stress. D-Galactose (D-gal) evokes severe oxidative stress and mimics normal aging in animals. Curcumin, a natural flavonoid, has potent antioxidant and anti-aging properties. There are several proteins like glutathione S-transferase A1 (GSTA1), glutathione S-transferase omega-1 (GSTO1), kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), beta-secretase 1 (BACE1), and amine oxidase [flavin-containing] A (MAOA) are commonly involved in oxidative stress and aging. This study aimed to investigate the interaction of curcumin to these proteins and their subsequent effect on aging-associated memory impairment in two robust animal models: D-Gal and normal aged (NA) mice. The aging mice model was developed by administering D-gal intraperitoneally (i.p). Mice (n = 64) were divided into the eight groups (8 mice in each group): Vehicle, Curcumin-Control, D-gal (100mg/kg; i.p), Curcumin + D-gal, Astaxanthin (Ast) + D-gal, Normal Aged (NA), Curcumin (30mg/kg Orally) + NA, Ast (20mg/kg Orally) + NA. Retention and freezing memories were assessed by passive avoidance (PA) and contextual fear conditioning (CFC). Molecular docking was performed to predict curcumin binding with potential molecular targets. Curcumin significantly increased retention time (p < 0.05) and freezing response (p < 0.05) in PA and CFC, respectively. Curcumin profoundly ameliorated the levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, advanced oxidation protein products, nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation in mice hippocampi. In silico studies revealed favorable binding energies of curcumin with GSTA1, GSTO1, KEAP1, BACE1, and MAOA. Curcumin improves retention and freezing memory in D-gal and nature-induced aging mice. Curcumin ameliorates the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in mice. Anti-aging effects of curcumin could be attributed to, at least partially, the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes through binding with GSTA1, GSTO1, KEAP1, and inhibition of oxidative damage through binding with BACE1 and MAOA.

QbD Approach towards Robust Design Space for Flutamide/PiperineSelf-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System with Reduced Liver Injury

Flutamide which is used to treat prostate cancer and other diseases induces liver damage during and after the therapy. The aim of this study was to develop a flutamide/piperineco-loaded self-emulsifying drug delivery system (FPSEDDS) to inhibit flutamide-induced liver injury by utilizing piperine as a metabolic inhibitor. The development of SEDDS was carried out following a quality by design (QbD) approach. The risk assessment study was performed to identify critical quality attributes (CQAs) and critical material attributes (CMAs)/critical process parameters (CPPs). I-optimal mixture design was executed with three CMAs as the independent variables and CQAs as the dependable variables. The effectiveness of optimized SEDDS to circumvent flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity was assessed in mice. The numerical optimization suggested an optimal formulation with a desirability value of 0.621, using CQAs targets as optimization goals with 95% prediction intervals (α = 0.05). The optimal formulation exhibited the grade A SEDDS characteristics with the guarantee of high payloads in self-formed oily droplets. The design space was also obtained from the same optimization goals. All CQA responses of verification points were found within the 95% prediction intervals of the polynomial models, indicating a good agreement between actual versus predicted responses within the design space. These obtained responses also passed CQAs acceptance criteria. Finally, hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed the minimal flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity from the optimal SEDDS formulation as compared to the control and flutamide/piperine normal suspension. We demonstrate that the piperine containing optimized SEDDS formulation developed by QbD significantly reduces the flutamide-induced liver injury in mice.

Impact of community masking on COVID-19: A cluster-randomized trial in Bangladesh

We conducted a cluster-randomized trial to measure the effect of community-level mask distribution and promotion on symptomatic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections in rural Bangladesh from November 2020 to April 2021 (N = 600 villages, N = 342,183 adults). We cross-randomized mask type (cloth versus surgical) and promotion strategies at the village and household level. Proper mask-wearing increased from 13.3% in the control group to 42.3% in the intervention arm (adjusted percentage point difference = 0.29; 95% confidence interval = [0.26, 0.31]). The intervention reduced symptomatic seroprevalence (adjusted prevalence ratio = 0.91 [0.82, 1.00]), especially among adults ≥60 years old in villages where surgical masks were distributed (adjusted prevalence ratio = 0.65 [0.45, 0.85]). Mask distribution with promotion was a scalable and effective method to reduce symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Elevated serum expression of p53 and association of TP53 codon 72 polymorphisms with risk of cervical cancer in Bangladeshi women

Differential expression of p53 has been reported in cervical cancer, primarily in tumor tissue biopsies. In this study, we examined the association of TP53 codon 47 and codon 72 polymorphisms and serum level expression of p53 in cervical cancer patients (n = 129) and healthy controls (n = 122). We found elevated levels of serum p53 protein levels in cervical cancer patients (p = 0.0442) compared to healthy controls. Moreover, we found higher levels of serum p53 in patients with grade-III tumor (p = 0.001) compared to healthy controls. Examination of SNPs showed TP53 Arg/Pro heterozygosity (adjusted OR = 2.126, 95% CI = 1.181-3.827, p = 0.012), Pro/Pro mutant homozygosity (adjusted OR = 3.564, 95% CI = 1.647-7.713, p = 0.001), along with the combined genotype (Arg/Pro+Pro/Pro) (adjusted OR 2.542, 95% CI = 1.517-4.260, p<0.001) significantly increases the risk of cervical cancer. Expression quantitative trait analysis revealed no significant association with protein expression. Our results represent for the first time the upregulation of serum p53 in cervical cancer in Bangladeshi women and supports the association of TP53 codon 72 polymorphisms with cervical cancer.

High prevalence of multiple antibiotic resistance in clinical E. coli isolates from Bangladesh and prediction of molecular resistance determinants using WGS of an XDR isolate

Multi-drug-resistance (MDR) is a severe public health concern worldwide, and its containment is more challenging in developing countries due to poor antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance and irrational use of antibiotics. The current study investigated 100 clinical E. coli isolates and revealed that 98% of them were MDR. PCR analysis using 25 selected isolates showed the predominance of metallo-β-lactamase gene bla_NDM (80%) and ESBL genes bla_OXA (48%) and bla_CTX-M-15 (32%). The AmpC gene was detected in 68% of the isolates, while 32% was tetC positive. Notably, 34% of the isolates were resistant to carbapenem. Whole genome sequence (WGS) analysis of an extensively drug-resistant (XDR) isolate (L16) revealed the presence of the notorious sequence type 131 responsible for multi-drug-resistant infections, multiple antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), virulence genes, and mobile genetic elements that pose risks to environmental transmission. Our results indicate that MDR is alarmingly increasing in Bangladesh that critically limits the treatment option against infections and contributes to further aggravation to the prevailing situation of MDR worldwide. The findings of this study will be valuable in designing sustainable strategies to contain MDR in the region.

L-carnitine protects cardiac damage by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory response via inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction

BRIEF INTRODUCTION

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a common manifestation of certain cardiac diseases where oxidative stress and fibrosis aggravate the condition markedly.

MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

Investigation of L-carnitine's cardioprotective roles and mechanism of action in a rat model of MI.

METHODS

To develop a MI animal model, Isoproterenol (ISO) was administered in male Long Evans rats where animals were divided into five groups (six rats/group). The oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined by different biochemical tests. The real-time PCR was performed to determine the expression of TNF-α and Il-1β. Histopathological observations by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson trichrome were made to observe the tissue damage and fibrosis in heart and kidney.

SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS FROM THE STUDY

The ISO-treated rats showed increased levels of troponin I and lipid peroxidation and lower antioxidant enzyme activity in heart and kidney tissues. The levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were also increased in ISO-rats. Co-administration of L-carnitine with ISO reversed all these parameters. The elevated levels of uric acid and creatinine kinase and ALP, AST and ALT activities in ISO-rats were also significantly reduced by L-carnitine administration. L-carnitine markedly decreased the infiltration of inflammatory cells and improved the tissue architecture in heart and kidney. Control animals did not show any appreciable response upon L-carnitine administration.

RELEVANT CONTRIBUTION TO KNOWLEDGE

These results suggest that L-carnitine plays a defensive role against cardiac and renal damage in ISO-treated MI rat model via suppressing oxidative stress and increasing antioxidant enzyme functions through inhibition of TNF-α and IL-1β.

Cellular Senescence and its Impact on the Circadian Clock

Aging is one of the greatest risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases, and cellular senescence is one of the major causes of aging and age-related diseases. The persistent presence of senescent cells in late life seems to cause disarray in a tissue-specific manner. Aging disrupts the circadian clock system, which results in the development of many age-related diseases such as metabolic syndrome, cancer, cardiac diseases, and sleep disorders and an increased susceptibility to infections. In this review, we first discuss cellular senescence and some of its basic characteristics and detrimental roles. Then, we discuss a relatively unexplored topic on the link between cellular senescence and the circadian clock and attempt to determine whether cellular senescence could be the underlying factor for circadian clock disruption.

COVID-19: Lessons from Norway tragedy must be considered in vaccine rollout planning in least developed/developing countries

All governments, regulatory authorities, and vaccine-related committees are under tremendous pressure to roll out vaccines to safeguard the people against COVID-19. To be noted that all COVID-19 vaccines have been developed hurriedly, some with new technologies being used on humans for the first time ever. Most clinical trials did not include elderly patients with comorbidities, hence a careful and logical rollout planning, especially for elderly people, is necessary.

Remote Temperature-Responsive Parafilm Dermal Patch for On-Demand Topical Drug Delivery

The development of externally controlled drug delivery systems that can rapidly trigger drug release is widely expected to change the landscape of future drug carriers. In this study, a drug delivery system was developed for on-demand therapeutic effects. The thermoresponsive paraffin film can be loaded on the basis of therapeutic need, including local anesthetic (lidocaine) or topical antibiotic (neomycin), controlled remotely by a portable mini-heater. The application of mild temperature (45 °C) to the drug-loaded paraffin film allowed a rapid stimulus response within a short time (5 min). This system exploits regular drug release and the rapid generation of mild heat to trigger a burst release of 80% within 6 h of any locally administered drug. The in vitro drug release studies and in vivo therapeutic activity were observed for local anesthesia and wound healing using a neomycin-loaded film. The studies demonstrated on-demand drug release with minimized inflammation and microbial infection. This temperature-responsive drug-loaded film can be triggered remotely to provide flexible control of dose magnitude and timing. Our preclinical studies on these remotely adjustable drug delivery systems can significantly improve patient compliance and medical practice.

Hematological abnormalities and comorbidities are associated with COVID-19 severity among hospitalized patients: Experience from Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

The hematological abnormalities are assumed to be involved in the disease progression of COVID-19. However, the actual associations between specific blood parameters and COVID-19 are not well understood. Here we aimed to assess the correlations between hematological parameters and the severity of COVID-19.

METHODS

We included COVID-19 patients who were admitted to Evercare Hospital Ltd, Dhaka, Bangladesh, between November 10, 2020, to April 12, 2021, with a confirmed case of RT-PCR test. We recorded demographic information, clinical data, and routine hematological examination results of all COVID-19 patients. We performed statistical analyses and interpretation of data to compare severe COVID-19 patients (SCP) and non-severe COVID-19 patients (NSCP).

RESULTS

The age and BMI of the admitted COVID-19 patients were 48.79±8.53 years and 25.82±3.75 kg/m2. This study included a total of 306 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Among them, NSCP and SCP were 198 and 108, respectively. And we recorded 12 deaths from SCP. We observed the alterations of several hematological parameters between SCP and NSCP. Among them, we noticed the increased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), d-dimer, and ferritin showed good indicative value to evaluate the severity of COVID-19. Also, there were positive correlations among these parameters. Moreover, we found correlations between the outcomes of COVID-19 patients with patient's demographics and comorbid diseases.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, CRP, d-dimer, and ferritin levels at admission to hospitals represent simple assessment factors for COVID-19 severity and the treatment decisions at the hospital setup. These blood parameters could serve as indicators for the prognosis and severity of COVID-19. Therefore, our study findings might help to develop a treatment protocol for COVID-19 patients at the hospital setup.

First detection of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in the vicinity of COVID-19 isolation Centre in Bangladesh: Variation along the sewer network

We made the first and successful attempt to detect SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in the vicinity wastewaters of an isolation centre i.e. Shaheed Bhulu Stadium, situated at Noakhali, Southeastern Bangladesh. Owing to the fact that isolation centre, in general, always contained a constant number of 200 COVID-19 patients, the prime objective of the study was to check if several drains carrying RNA of coronavirus are actually getting diluted or accumulated along with the sewage network. Our finding suggested that while the temporal variation of the genetic load decreased in small drains over the span of 50 days, the main sewer exhibited accumulation of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Other interesting finding displays that probably distance of sampling location in meters is not likely to have a significant impact on the detected gene concentration, although the quantity of the RNA extracted in the downstream of the drain was higher. These findings are of immense value from the perspective of wastewater surveillance of COVID-19, as they largely imply that we do not need to monitor every wastewater system, and probably major drains monitoring may illustrate the city health. Perhaps, we are reporting the accumulation of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material along with the sewer network i.e. from primary to tertiary drains. The study sought further data collection in this line to simulate conditions prevailed in most of the developing countries and to shed further light on decay/accumulation processes of the genetic load of the SARS-COV-2.

First detection of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in the vicinity of COVID-19 isolation Centre in Bangladesh: Variation along the sewer network

We made the first and successful attempt to detect SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in the vicinity wastewaters of an isolation centre i.e. Shaheed Bhulu Stadium, situated at Noakhali, Southeastern Bangladesh. Owing to the fact that isolation centre, in general, always contained a constant number of 200 COVID-19 patients, the prime objective of the study was to check if several drains carrying RNA of coronavirus are actually getting diluted or accumulated along with the sewage network. Our finding suggested that while the temporal variation of the genetic load decreased in small drains over the span of 50 days, the main sewer exhibited accumulation of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Other interesting finding displays that probably distance of sampling location in meters is not likely to have a significant impact on the detected gene concentration, although the quantity of the RNA extracted in the downstream of the drain was higher. These findings are of immense value from the perspective of wastewater surveillance of COVID-19, as they largely imply that we do not need to monitor every wastewater system, and probably major drains monitoring may illustrate the city health. Perhaps, we are reporting the accumulation of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material along with the sewer network i.e. from primary to tertiary drains. The study sought further data collection in this line to simulate conditions prevailed in most of the developing countries and to shed further light on decay/accumulation processes of the genetic load of the SARS-COV-2.

Willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 among Bangladeshi adults: Understanding the strategies to optimize vaccination coverage

BACKGROUND

Although the approved COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective, mass vaccination in Bangladeshi people remains a challenge. As a vaccination effort, the study provided an empirical evidence on willingness to vaccinate by sociodemographic, clinical and regional differences in Bangladeshi adults.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis from a household survey of 3646 adults aged 18 years or older was conducted in 8 districts of Bangladesh, from December 12, 2020, to January 7, 2021. Multinomial regression examined the impact of socio-demographic, clinical and healthcare-releated factors on hesitancy and reluctance of vaccination for COVID-19.

RESULTS

Of the 3646 respondents (2212 men [60.7%]; mean [sd] age, 37.4 [13.9] years), 74.6% reported their willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 when a safe and effective vaccine is available without a fee, while 8.5% were reluctant to vaccinate. With a minimum fee, 46.5% of the respondents showed intent to vaccinate. Among the respondents, 16.8% reported adequate adherence to health safety regulations, and 35.5% reported high confidence in the country's healthcare system. The COVID-19 vaccine refusal was significantly high in elderly, rural, semi-urban, and slum communities, farmers, day-laborers, homemakers, low-educated group, and those who had low confidence in the country's healthcare system. Also, the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was high in the elderly population, low-educated group, day-laborers, people with chronic diseases, and people with low confidence in the country's healthcare system.

CONCLUSION

A high prevalence of vaccine refusal and hesitancy was observed in rural people and slum dwellers in Bangladesh. The rural community and slum dwellers had a low literacy level, low adherence to health safety regulations and low confidence in healthcare system. The ongoing app-based registration for vaccination increased hesitancy and reluctancy in low-educated group. For rural, semi-urban, and slum people, outreach centers for vaccination can be established to ensure the vaccine's nearby availability and limit associated travel costs. In rural areas, community health workers, valued community-leaders, and non-governmental organizations can be utilized to motivate and educate people for vaccination against COVID-19. Further, emphasis should be given to the elderly and diseased people with tailored health messages and assurance from healthcare professionals. The media may play a responsible role with the vaccine education program and eliminate the social stigma about the vaccination. Finally, vaccination should be continued without a fee and thus Bangladesh's COVID vaccination program can become a model for other low and middle-income countries.

Identification of a novel inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 3CL-PRO through virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has ravaged lives across the globe since December 2019, and new cases are still on the rise. Peoples’ ongoing sufferings trigger scientists to develop safe and effective remedies to treat this deadly viral disease. While repurposing the existing FDA-approved drugs remains in the front line, exploring drug candidates from synthetic and natural compounds is also a viable alternative. This study employed a comprehensive computational approach to screen inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 3CL-PRO (also known as the main protease), a prime molecular target to treat coronavirus diseases.

Methods

We performed 100 ns GROMACS molecular dynamics simulations of three high-resolution X-ray crystallographic structures of 3CL-PRO. We extracted frames at 10 ns intervals to mimic conformational diversities of the target protein in biological environments. We then used AutoDock Vina molecular docking to virtual screen the Sigma–Aldrich MyriaScreen Diversity Library II, a rich collection of 10,000 druglike small molecules with diverse chemotypes. Subsequently, we adopted in silico computation of physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetic parameters, and toxicity profiles. Finally, we analyzed hydrogen bonding and other protein-ligand interactions for the short-listed compounds.

Results

Over the 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations of 3CL-PRO’s crystal structures, 6LZE, 6M0K, and 6YB7, showed overall integrity with mean Cα root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) of 1.96 (±0.35) Å, 1.98 (±0.21) Å, and 1.94 (±0.25) Å, respectively. Average root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF) values were 1.21 ± 0.79 (6LZE), 1.12 ± 0.72 (6M0K), and 1.11 ± 0.60 (6YB7). After two phases of AutoDock Vina virtual screening of the MyriaScreen Diversity Library II, we prepared a list of the top 20 ligands. We selected four promising leads considering predicted oral bioavailability, druglikeness, and toxicity profiles. These compounds also demonstrated favorable protein-ligand interactions. We then employed 50-ns molecular dynamics simulations for the four selected molecules and the reference ligand 11a in the crystallographic structure 6LZE. Analysis of RMSF, RMSD, and hydrogen bonding along the simulation trajectories indicated that S51765 would form a more stable protein-ligand complexe with 3CL-PRO compared to other molecules. Insights into short-range Coulombic and Lennard-Jones potentials also revealed favorable binding of S51765 with 3CL-PRO.

Conclusion

We identified a potential lead for antiviral drug discovery against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Our results will aid global efforts to find safe and effective remedies for COVID-19.

Therapeutic Potentials of Colocasia affinis Leaf Extract for the Alleviation of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes and Diabetic Complications: In vivo and in silico-Based Studies

INTRODUCTION

Hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus (DM) correlates with hepatic impairment, nephropathy, lipid abnormalities, and oxidative stress and subsequently complicates the disease pathogenesis. Medicinal plants have been used for the management of diabetes since ancient times. In this study, we explored the potentials of Colocasia affinis (CA), a plant known to possess anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities, as a remedy for diabetes and related complications.

METHODS

We induced diabetes in rats using a single intraperitoneal dose (65 mg/kg) of streptozotocin (STZ). We next treated the rats with an ethanolic extract of leaves of CA to reveal its antidiabetic and organ-protective potentials. Biomarkers of diabetes, inflammation, and oxidative stress were measured using biochemical and histopathological analysis. We also performed molecular docking for three major phytochemicals (kaempferol, myricetin, and rosmarinic acid) of CA.

RESULTS

Oral administration of the CA leaves extract at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses decreased blood glucose level significantly (p<0.05) in STZ-induced diabetic rats. The extract also considerably attenuated plasma HbA1c levels and normalized blood lipids, glycogen, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Additionally, treatment with the extract improved kidney complications by decreasing serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Furthermore, CA leaves extract normalized nitric oxide (NO) and advance oxidative protein products (AOPP) in diabetic rats. The extract also showed significant improvement of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione dismutase (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) at a dose of 500 mg/kg. Besides, histological investigation demonstrated attenuation of inflammation of the vital organs, including the liver and the kidney. In silico studies revealed that three major phytochemicals (kaempferol, myricetin, and rosmarinic acid) of the ethanolic extract of leaves of CA can inhibit several molecular targets of diabetes and inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of CA for the mitigation of diabetes and diabetic complications.

A Mechanistic Review of β-Carotene, Lutein, and Zeaxanthin in Eye Health and Disease

Carotenoids are natural lipid-soluble antioxidants abundantly found as colorful pigments in fruits and vegetables. At least 600 carotenoids occur naturally, although about 20 of them, including β-carotene, α-carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin, and cryptoxanthin, are detectable in the human blood. They have distinct physiological and pathophysiological functions ranging from fetal development to adult homeostasis. β-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A that essentially functions in many biological processes including vision. The human macula lutea and eye lens are rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin, collectively known as macular xanthophylls, which help maintain eye health and prevent ophthalmic diseases. Ocular carotenoids absorb light from the visible region (400-500 nm wavelength), enabling them to protect the retina and lens from potential photochemical damage induced by light exposure. These natural antioxidants also aid in quenching free radicals produced by complex physiological reactions and, consequently, protect the eye from oxidative stress, apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation. This review discusses the protective mechanisms of macular xanthophylls in preventing eye diseases such as cataract, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Moreover, some preclinical animal studies and some clinical trials are discussed briefly to understand carotenoid safety and efficacy.

Are SAARC countries prepared to combat COVID-19 to save young, working-age population?

The COVID-19 outbreak has expanded across the globe. Most of the countries are launching different measures to stop the transmission of this virus. However, the death toll is steadily rising. Strikingly the rate of coronavirus infection among the young-age population is the highest in SAARC countries as more than 80% population of the SAARC countries are young who constitute the working-age group. The disease transmission also occurs at a slower rate presumably due to diverse lifestyles of different ethnicities, immunity and genetic traits; but not because of the hot and humid weather despite previous assumptions. Since SAARC countries comprise 23.75% of the world population and the largest portion of these people is the young working-class, some immediate measures need to be implemented to save these valuable lives from COVID-19. Till now, there is no specific treatment or vaccine available; hence timely-taken preventive measures are the only hope that can save the people of this region. Here we have demonstrated an altered disease transmission pattern in people of SAARC countries, measures initiated by the governments, causes of failure and further actions to be taken to control disease transmission.

A mechanistic approach to HPLC analysis, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and postoperative analgesic activities of panch phoron in mice

Background

Panch phoron is a mixture of five spices containing an equal proportion of Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn (fenugreek), Nigella sativa (black cumin), Cuminum cyminum (cumin) and Brassica nigra (black mustard). The mixture is commonly used in Bangladeshi cuisine and possesses many pharmacological effects. In this study, we evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of aqueous panch phoron extract (PPE) in vivo, its possible mechanism of action and phytochemical analysis by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). We also investigated the effect of PPE on postoperative pain in mice.

Methods

HPLC was carried out using LC-20A Modular HPLC system to identify the bioactive compounds present in PPE. Five groups of Swiss albino male mice (n = 6 per group) were orally treated with 10 ml/kg of distilled water or 10 mg/kg of sodium diclofenac or three doses of PPE (100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg). In vivo assessment was carried out by the writhing test, tail-flick test, formalin test, and carrageenan induced paw edema test. The opioid antagonist, naloxone was used in the acetic acid test to evaluate the involvement of opioid receptors. To assess the effect of PPE in postoperative pain, mice that underwent sciatic nerve surgery were measured for the paw withdrawal latency in a hot water bath.

Results

In HPLC analysis, different types of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, including catechin hydrate, para-coumaric acid, vanillic acid, and syringic acid were detected. Treatment with PPE exhibited dose-dependent antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in pain models (p < 0.05). Furthermore, naloxone did not reverse the effect of PPE in the writhing test. Mice that underwent sciatic nerve surgery showed that the paw withdrawal latency increased gradually over 7 days.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that PPE has significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities and can provide significant postoperative analgesia.

Local drug delivery from surgical thread for area-specific anesthesia

The application of surgical suture-thread and the systemic analgesics regimens for pain control in the postoperative surgery remain the criterion standard. However, these medications have daunting adverse effects on the body's innate pain management system. To address this issue, we have developed a local analgesic-loaded suture system which could be efficiently used for surgical repair with localized sedation effect. The drug-loaded conventional suture has modified by adhesive poly-dopamine coating with the local anesthetic lidocaine. The surface modifications have been ascertained by FE-SEM imaging. The tensile strength of suture ensures required elasticity to use in surgical skin closure. In vitro drug release and the in vivo local analgesia was achieved one day after surgery and persisted approximately for one week in 80% of treated animals. Our pre-clinical results suggest that drug-loaded surgical thread may be an effective strategy for improving the overall outcome.

C-MAF Expression in Adult Human Ocular Surface and its Implication in Pterygium Pathogenesis

BACKGROUND

c-MAF, a transcription factor that belongs to the b-Zip Maf transcription factor family, was found to be critical for lens development in vertebrates. It is a well-known fact that the adult human ocular surface expresses c-MAF, however, its role in the limbus, cornea and conjunctiva remains unknown. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate c-MAF expression within the human ocular surface, and its potential role in pterygium pathogenesis.

METHODS

We performed immunohistochemical staining to detect c-MAF expression in frozen adult human tissue sections, including the limbus, cornea and conjunctiva, and cultured cells from eye cadavers. We then compared c-MAF expression to the expression of a known protein, P63. Lastly, we performed RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry for c-MAF expression in healthy adult human conjunctiva and pterygium.

RESULTS

We found differential c-MAF expression between adult human limbus, cornea and conjunctiva tissues. Further, we observed that c-MAF is downregulated in the pterygium compared to healthy conjunctiva.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our results suggest that c-MAF may play a context-specific role in maintaining limbal, corneal and conjunctival homeostasis, and may be critical for preventing pterygium development in humans.

Levocarnitine Improves AlCl3-Induced Spatial Working Memory Impairment in Swiss albino Mice

Background: Aluminum, a neurotoxic substance, causes oxidative stress induced-neurodegenerative diseases. Several lines of evidence suggest that levocarnitine has an antioxidant effect and also plays an important role in beta-oxidation of fatty acids. However, the role of levocarnitine in aluminum-induced neurotoxicity has not been well documented. Here we aimed to investigate the effect of levocarnitine on aluminum chloride (AlCl₃)-induced oxidative stress and memory dysfunction.

Methods: Male Swiss albino mice (n = 30) were treated with either control (saline) or AlCl₃ or AlCl₃ plus levocarnitine or levocarnitine or astaxanthin plus AlCl₃ or astaxanthin alone. The spatial working memory was determined by radial arm maze (RAM). In addition, we measured the lipid peroxidation (MDA), glutathione (GSH), advanced oxidation of protein products (AOPP), nitric oxide (NO) and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the various brain regions including prefrontal cortex (PFC), striatum (ST), parietal cortex (PC), hippocampus (HIP) hypothalamus (HT) and cerebellum (CB). We used astaxanthin as a standard antioxidant to compare the antioxidant activity of levocarnitine.

Results: The RAM data showed that AlCl₃ treatment (50 mg/kg) for 2 weeks resulted in a significant deficit in spatial learning in mice. Moreover, aluminum exposure significantly (p < 0.05) increased the level of oxidative stress markers such as MDA, GSH, AOPP and NO in the various brain regions compared to the controls. In addition, combined administration of levocarnitine and AlCl₃ significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the MDA, AOPP, GSH and NO levels in mice.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that levocarnitine could serve as a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of oxidative stress associated diseases as well as in memory impairment.

Pretreatment With Risperidone Ameliorates Systemic LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress in the Cortex and Hippocampus

Risperidone (RIS), an atypical antipsychotic has been found to show anti-inflammatory effect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. In vitro study has revealed that RIS inhibits the LPS-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. We investigated the antioxidant effects of RIS on LPS-induced oxidative stress markers in Swiss albino mice. Ten weeks old male Swiss albino mice (30 ± 2 g) were pretreated with either distilled water (control) or RIS (3 mg/kg) for 7 days. On day 8, animals were challenged with a single dose of LPS (0.8 mg/kg) while control animals received distilled water only. The animals were sacrificed after 24 h of LPS administration and tissue samples were collected. RIS administration significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the LPS-induced elevated levels of lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced protein oxidation products, and nitric oxide (NO) in the cortex. Catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were also diminished while the level of glutathione (GSH) was enhanced. Hippocampus data showed that RIS significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the LPS-induced increased levels of MDA and NO, and SOD activity. Our results suggest that LPS-induced neuronal oxidative damage can be alleviated by the pretreatment with RIS and the effect is shown presumably by scavenging of the ROS by risperidone as an antioxidant.

Cardioprotective effect of Amaranthus tricolor extract in isoprenaline induced myocardial damage in ovariectomized rats

Red spinach (Amaranthus tricolor) has been reported to possess many benefits and medicinal properties and used as a part of traditional medicine in Ayurveda and Siddha. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of Amaranthus tricolor on isoproterenol-induced oxidative stress, fibrosis, and myocardial damage in ovariectomized rats. Ovariectomy surgery was conducted to remove both ovaries from the rats. After recovery, rats were administered with ISO subcutaneously (50 mg/kg) twice a week and were treated with ethanolic extracts of A. tricolor. This investigation showed that the level of oxidative stress markers was significantly increased while the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity decreased in ISO administered ovariectomized rats. A. tricolor extract and atenolol treatment prevented the rise of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide and advanced protein oxidation product. Moreover, elevated activities of AST, ALT, and CK-MB enzymes were also lowered by both atenolol and A. tricolor treatment. Increased uric acid and creatinine levels were also normalized by atenolol, and A. Tricolor treatment in ISO administered ovariectomized rats. ISO-induced ovariectomized rats also showed massive inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis and iron deposition in heart compared to sham rats. Atenolol and A. tricolor treatment prevented the inflammatory cells infiltration, fibrosis, and iron deposition. These results suggest that A. tricolor treatment may protect against ISO administered myocardial infarction in ovariectomized rats probably by preventing inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. Further research is warranted to examine molecular mechanism of cardioprotective effect of A. tricolor.