Impact of N-Alkylamino Substituents on Serotonin Receptor (5-HTR) Affinity and Phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A) Inhibition of Isoindole-1,3-dione Derivatives

In this study, a series of compounds derived from 4-methoxy-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione, potential ligands of phosphodiesterase 10A and serotonin receptors, were investigated as potential antipsychotics. A library of 4-methoxy-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione derivatives with various amine moieties was synthesized and examined for their phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A)-inhibiting properties and their 5-HT_1A and 5-HT₇ receptor affinities. Based on in vitro studies, the most potent compound, 18 (2-[4-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)butyl]-4-methoxy-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione), was selected and its safety in vitro was evaluated. In order to explain the binding mode of compound 18 in the active site of the PDE10A enzyme and describe the molecular interactions responsible for its inhibition, computer-aided docking studies were performed. The potential antipsychotic properties of compound 18 in a behavioral model of schizophrenia were also investigated.

A dual-acting 5-HT6 receptor inverse agonist/MAO-B inhibitor displays glioprotective and pro-cognitive properties

The complex etiology of Alzheimer's disease has initiated a quest for multi-target ligands to address the multifactorial causes of this neurodegenerative disorder. In this context, we designed dual-acting 5-HT₆ receptor (5-HT₆R) antagonists/MAO-B inhibitors using pharmacophore hybridization strategy. Our approach involved linking priviliged scaffolds of 5-HT₆R with aryloxy fragments derived from reversible and irreversible MAO-B inhibitors. The study identified compound 48 that acts as an inverse agonist of 5-HT₆R at G_s signaling and an irreversible MAO-B inhibitor. Compound 48 showed moderate metabolic stability in rat microsomal assay, artificial membrane permeability, no hepatotoxicity, and it was well distributed to the brain. Additionally, 48 showed glioprotective properties in a model of cultured astrocytes using 6-OHDA as the cytotoxic agent. Finally, compound 48 (MED = 1 mg/kg, p.o.) fully reversed memory deficits in the NOR task induced by scopolamine in rats. A better understanding of effects exerted by dual-acting 5-HT₆R/MAO-B modulators may impact the future development of neurodegenerative-directed treatment strategies.

Microbial biotransformation of some novel hydantoin derivatives: Perspectives for bioremediation of potential sunscreen agents

Having identified novel hydantoin derivatives (compounds 1-5) demonstrating promising photoprotective capacity against UV radiation, and understainding the problem of the biotic and abiotic degradation of UV filters, the aim of the study was to evaluate their metabolic fate with the environmental fungus Cunninghamella echinulata. In parallel, compound 1 in vitro microsomal metabolic pattern was evaluated. Finally, in silico toxicity of test compounds and their biotransformation products was estimated, and parent compounds photostability was assessed. The study demonstrated the capacity for C. echinulata to metabolize 1-5, which were biotransformed to a greater extent than the standard UV filter. O-dealkylation of the side chains attached to the phenyl or hydantoin rings, and hydroxylation of the phenyl ring occurred during microbial transformation. O-dealkylation product was a unique metabolite observed in microsomal biotransformation of 1, being its intrinsic clearance in the medium category range. In silico study demonstrated that compounds 1-5 have low toxicity risk. Among the resulting metabolites, four can increase the risk of reproductive effects as shown by OSIRIS prediction. Noteworthy, all indicated metabolites belong to minor metabolites, except for compound 3 major metabolite. Moreover, the results of the photostability study showed that 1-5 were considered to be photostable. To sum up, the obtained in vitro biotransformation, photostability, and in silico toxicity results encourage further studies on hydantoin derivatives as potential UV photoprotective agents. The presented biotransformation profile of compounds 1-5 by C. echinulata suggests that these compounds may follow a similar biodegradation fate when released into the environment.

Dual 5-HT6 and D3 Receptor Antagonists in a Group of 1H-Pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinolines with Neuroprotective and Procognitive Activity

In light of the multifactorial origin of neurodegenerative disorders and some body of evidence indicating that pharmacological blockade of serotonin 5-HT₆ and dopamine D₃ receptors might be beneficial for cognitive decline, we envisioned (S)-1-[(3-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl]-4-(pyrrolidine-3-yl-amino)-1H-pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinoline (CPPQ), a neutral antagonist of 5-HT₆R, as a chemical template for designing dual antagonists of 5-HT₆/D₃ receptors. As shown by in vitro experiments, supported by quantum chemical calculations and molecular dynamic simulations, introducing alkyl substituents at the pyrrolidine nitrogen of CPPQ, fulfilled structural requirements for simultaneous modulation of 5-HT₆ and D₃ receptors. The study identified compound 19 ((S)-1-((3-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl)-N-(1-isobutylpyrrolidin-3-yl)-1H-pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinolin-4-amine), which was classified as a dual 5-HT₆/D₃R antagonist (K_i(5-HT6) = 27 nM, K_i(D3) = 7 nM). Compound 19 behaved as a neutral antagonist at G_s signaling and had no influence on receptor-operated, cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5)-dependent neurite growth. In contrast to the well characterized 5-HT₆R antagonist intepirdine, compound 19 displayed neuroprotective properties against astrocyte damage induced by doxorubicin, as shown using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) staining to assess cell metabolic activity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release as an index of cell membrane disruption. This feature is of particular importance considering the involvement of loss of homeostatic function of glial cells in the progress of neurodegeneration. Biological results obtained for 19 in in vitro tests, translated into procognitive properties in phencyclidine (PCP)-induced memory decline in the novel object recognition (NOR) task in rats.

Synergistic anticancer activity of doxorubicin and piperlongumine on DU-145 prostate cancer cells - The involvement of carbonyl reductase 1 inhibition

One of the causes of therapeutic failure of chemotherapy is cancer cell resistance. In the case of anthracyclines, many resistance mechanisms have been described. One of them assumes the role of carbonyl reductase 1 (CBR1), a cytosolic enzyme that is responsible for the biotransformation process of anthracyclines to less active, undesirable metabolites. Therefore, CBR1 inhibitors are considered for use as a chemosensitizing agents. In the present study, piperlongumine (PL), a Piper longum L. alkaloid that has previously been described as a CBR1 inhibitor, was investigated for its chemosensitizing properties in co-treatment with doxorubicin (DOX). The biotransformation process of DOX in the presence of PL was tracked using human cytosol fraction and LC-MS, then a molecular modeling study was conducted to predict the interaction of PL with the active site of the CBR1. The biological interaction between DOX and PL was investigated using DU-145 prostate cancer cells. Cytotoxic and antiproliferative properties of DOX and PL were examined, and the type and potency of interaction was quantified by Combination Index. The mechanism of the cell death induced by the agents was investigated by flow cytometry and the anti-invasive properties of the drugs were determined by monitoring the movement of individual cells. PL showed dose-dependent inhibition of DOX metabolism in cytosol, which resulted in less doxorubicinol (DOXol) metabolite being formed. The possible mechanism of CBR1 inhibition was explained through molecular modeling studies by prediction of PL's binding mode in the active site of the enzyme's crystal structure-based model. DOX and PL showed a synergistic antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect on cancer cells. Significant anti-invasive properties of the combination of DOX and PL were found, but when the drugs were used separately they did not alter the cancer cells' motility. Cell motility inhibition was accompanied by significant changes in cytoskeleton architecture. DOX and PL used in co-treatment showed significant synergistic anticancer properties. Inhibition of DOX metabolism by PL was found to be a mechanism that was likely to be responsible for the observed interaction.

Photostability of Terbinafine Under UVA Irradiation: The Effect of UV Absorbers

The photostability of drugs administered topically on unprotected skin is a complex phenomenon that could be connected with the loss of activity or, rather rarely, the occurrence of toxic degradation products. In this study, an in-depth investigation of the photostability of terbinafine, in both solutions and formulations, was conducted, taking into account the presence of UV absorbers such as TiO₂ , ZnO, avobenzone, 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor, octocrylene, benzophenone-1 and benzophenone-2. The clear photocatalytic degradation of terbinafine in ethanol solution was observed in the presence of TiO₂ and/or ZnO. In other cases, terbinafine was stable, with the exception of, in the presence of octocrylene. The presumed degradation products of terbinafine were identified for the first time using LC/MS/MS, and transformation pathways were proposed. In the case of a cream formulation, the percentage of initial terbinafine content was almost unchanged in the presence of the UV absorbers benzophenone-1, benzophenone-2 and 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor. In vitro cytotoxicity risk assessment of terbinafine based on photostability under UVA irradiation was evaluated using the human skin fibroblast BJ (ATCC^® CRL-2522™), and this showed no statistically significant difference in cell viability for all samples analyzed.

Synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of phenoxyacetyl derivatives of amines, including aminoalkanols and amino acids

A series of 17 new phenoxyacetamides has been prepared via multistep chemical synthesis as a continuation of the research carried out by our group on di- and tri-substituted phenoxyalkyl and phenoxyacetyl derivatives of amines. The obtained compounds vary in an amide component, for example aminoalkanol or (un)modified amino acid moieties were introduced. The structures of selected products were confirmed by means of crystallographic methods. All 17 compounds were the subject of preliminary screening for potential anticonvulsant activity (MES, 6 Hz and/or scMET tests) and neurotoxicity (rotarod) in mice after intraperitoneal administration, while several active compounds were subsequently examined in additional models (e.g. MES and rotarod - rats, p.o. or i.p., hippocampal kindling - rats, i.p.). Finally, safety studies (cytotoxicity and cell proliferation assays on astrocytes, metabolic stability assessment, mutagenicity evaluation) were performed for several active compounds, including the most promising one (R-(-)-2-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)-N-(1-hydroxypropan-2-yl)acetamide, MES ED₅₀ = 12.00 mg per kg b.w., rats, p.o.).

Correction to: Fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition in bronchial asthma

In the original publication, funding information was inadvertently omitted.

Cinnamic acid derivatives in cosmetics: current use and future prospects

Cinnamic acid derivatives are widely used in cosmetics and possess various functions. This group of compounds includes both naturally occurring and synthetic substances. On the basis of the Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng) and available literature, this review summarizes their functions in cosmetics, including their physicochemical and biological properties as well as reported adverse effects. A perfuming function is typical of many derivatives of cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl alcohol, dihydrocinnamyl alcohol and cinnamic acid itself; these substances are commonly used in cosmetics all over the world. Some of them show allergic and photoallergic potential, resulting in restrictions in maximum concentrations and/or a requirement to indicate the presence of some substances in the list of ingredients when their concentrations exceed certain fixed values in a cosmetic product. Another important function of cinnamic acid derivatives in cosmetics is UV protection. Ester derivatives such as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (octinoxate), isoamyl p-methoxycinnamte (amiloxiate), octocrylene and cinoxate are used in cosmetics all over the world as UV filters. However, their maximum concentrations in cosmetic products are restricted due to their adverse effects, which include contact and a photocontact allergies, phototoxic contact dermatitis, contact dermatitis, estrogenic modulation and generation of reactive oxygen species. Other rarely utilized functions of cinnamic acid derivatives are as an antioxidant, in skin conditioning, hair conditioning, as a tonic and in antimicrobial activities. Moreover, some currently investigated natural and synthetic derivatives of cinnamic acid have shown skin lightening and anti-ageing properties. Some of them may become new cosmetic ingredients in the future. In particular, 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, which is currently indexed as a skin-conditioning cosmetics ingredient, has been widely tested in vitro and in vivo as a new drug candidate for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.

Piperlongumine (piplartine) as a lead compound for anticancer agents - Synthesis and properties of analogues: A mini-review

Piperlongumine, also known as piplartine, is an amide alkaloid of Piper longum L. (long piper), a medical plant known from Ayurvedic medicine. Although was discovered well over fifty years ago, its pharmacological properties have been uncovered in the past decade. In particular, piperlongumine has been most extensively studied as a potential anticancer agent. Piperlongumine has exhibited cytotoxicity against a broad spectrum of human cancer cell lines, as well as demonstrated antitumor activity in rodents. Piperlongumine has also been found to be a proapoptotic, anti-invasive, antiangiogenic agent and synergize with modern chemotherapeutic agents. Because of its clinical potential, several studies were undertaken to obtain piperlongumine analogues, which have exhibited more potent activity or more appropriate drug-like parameters. In this review, the synthesis of piperlongumine analogues and piperlongumine-based hybrid compounds, as well as their anticancer properties and the molecular basis for their activity are explored. General structure-activity relationship conclusions are drawn and directions for the future research are indicated.

Correction: Synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of phenoxyacetyl derivatives of amines, including aminoalkanols and amino acids

Correction for ‘Synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of phenoxyacetyl derivatives of amines, including aminoalkanols and amino acids’ by Katarzyna Pańczyk et al., MedChemComm, 2018, DOI: 10.1039/c8md00430g.

Antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic activity of new 3,3-diphenyl-propionamides with anticonvulsant activity in models of pain in mice

Anticonvulsant drugs are used to treat a wide range of non-epileptic conditions, including chronic pain. The aim of the present experiments was to examine analgesic activity of three new 3,3-diphenyl-propionamides, which had previously demonstrated anticonvulsant activity in the MES (maximal electroshock seizure), scPTZ (subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole) and/or 6Hz (psychomotor seizure) tests in mice. Antinociceptive activity was examined in mouse models of acute pain (the hot plate test) and tonic pain (the formalin test) in mice. Antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic activity was estimated in the oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain model of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and in the streptozotocin-induced model of painful diabetic neuropathy in mice. Considering the drug safety evaluation, the influence on locomotor activity was checked. Moreover, using in vitro methods, selected compound was tested for potential hepatotoxicity on human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line and for metabolic stability. To determine the plausible mechanism of anticonvulsant and antinociceptive action, in vitro binding and functional assays were carried out. Among tested molecules two of them JOA 122 (3p) and JOA 123 (3q) revealed significant antinociceptive activity in the model of tonic pain - the formalin test and neuropathic pain models - the oxaliplatin and streptozotocin-induced peripheral neuropathy. In the binding studies JOA 122 (3p) revealed the high affinity to voltage-gated sodium channels (Na_v1.2), as well as for 5-HT_1A receptors. Metabolism studies in mouse liver microsomes showed a low metabolic stability of this compound.

Synthesis and Determination of Lipophilicity, Anticonvulsant Activity, and Preliminary Safety of 3-Substituted and 3-Unsubstituted N-[(4-Arylpiperazin-1-yl)alkyl]pyrrolidine-2,5-dione Derivatives

A new series of 1,3-substituted pyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives as potential anticonvulsant agents are described. Initial pharmacological screening of these compounds was performed by using acute models of seizures (MES and scPTZ tests) in mice after intraperitoneal administration. Quantitative pharmacological research revealed that the most promising compounds were N-[{4-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazin-1-yl}propyl]-3-benzhydrylpyrrolidine-2,5-dione monohydrochloride (11) with a ED₅₀ value of 75.9 mg kg^-1 (MES test) and N-[{4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl}ethyl]-3-methylpyrrolidine-2,5-dione monohydrochloride (18) with ED₅₀ =88.2 mg kg^-1 (MES test) and ED₅₀ =65.7 kg mg^-1 (scPTZ test). These compounds displayed a more beneficial protective index than well-known antiepileptic drugs. A plausible mechanism of action of compounds 11 and 18 [molecule 11 blocked the sodium channel (site 2) and 18 blocked both the sodium (site 2) and L-type calcium channels] and their preliminary safety in vitro were evaluated. Besides, the lipophilicity of all synthesized compounds was determined by using UPLC-MS.

The impact of ZnO and TiO2 on the stability of clotrimazole under UVA irradiation: Identification of photocatalytic degradation products and in vitro cytotoxicity assessment

In order to ensure the safe and effective use of pharmaceutical products especially for topical administration photostability testing is necessary. The current paper presents an in-depth analysis of the stability of one of the most common antifungal agents, namely clotrimazole. Clotrimazole has proven to be stable under UVA irradiation in applied experimental conditions, but the presence of catalysts such as ZnO and TiO₂ has contributed significantly to the degradation of this compound. The findings indicate that its photocatalytic degradation reactions followed the pseudo first-order kinetics with rate constant depending on the pH and the used solvent. Using LC-MS/MS, 14 presumable degradation products of clotrimazole were identified and the plausible transformation pathways were proposed. The in vitro cytotoxicity risk evaluation based on photostability of clotrimazole was also performed using the Human skin fibroblast cell line (BJ) ATCC™ CRL-2522. There was no statistically significant difference between cells viability in all analyzed combinations of clotrimazole, TiO₂/ZnO, and UVA irradiation (p<0.05).

Chemopreventive and Anticancer Activities of Bacopa Monnieri Extracted from Artificial Digestive Juices

Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell (water hyssop) from the Scrophulariaceae family represents one of the best known plants of the Ayurveda system, with reported procognitive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anticonvulsant activity. It is considered to be a central nervous system modulating agent. However, recent studies have indicated its potential use in cancer prevention and treatment. Here we report the findings from a study of the effects of B. monnieri extracts derived from artificial digestive juices on physiological traits of prostate cancer cells (DU 145), such as viability and migratory activity. The safety profile and chemopreventive potential of B. monnieri extracts were investigated in Vibrio harveyi mutagenicity assays. Additionally, in this study for the first time the content of phenolic compounds and bacosides released from B. monnieri biomass to artificial digestive juices was determined. The investigated extracts were cytotoxic to DU 145; however, in non-cytotoxic concentrations, they significantly reduced cancer cell motility, thereby demonstrated anti-invasive activity. All extracts under study exhibited very strong antimutagenic activity against nitroquinoline- N-oxide. Bacoside A and phenolic acids were determined, but qualitative and quantitative differences between extracts were found.

Chemopreventive and Anticancer Activities of Bacopa monnieri Extracted from Artificial Digestive Juices

Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell (water hyssop) from the Scrophulariaceae family represents one of the best known plants of the Ayurveda system, with reported precognitive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anticonvulsant activity. It is considered to be a central nervous system modulating agent. However, recent studies have indicated its potential use in cancer prevention and treatment. Here we report the findings from a study of the effects of B. monnieri extracts derived from artificial digestive juices on physiological traits of prostate cancer cells (DU 145), such as viability and migratory activity. The safety profile and chemopreventive potential of B. monnieri extracts were investigated in Vibrio harveyi mutagenicity assays. Additionally, in this study for the first time the content of phenolic compounds and bacosides released from B. monnieri biomass to artificial digestive juices was determined. The investigated extracts were cytotoxic to DU 145; however, in non-cytotoxic concentrations, they significantly reduced cancer cell motility, thereby demonstrated anti- invasive activity. All extracts under study exhibited very strong antimutagenic activity against nitroquinoline-N-oxide. Bacoside A and phenolic acids were determined, but qualitative and quantitative differences between extracts were found.

Analgesic, antiallodynic, and anticonvulsant activity of novel hybrid molecules derived from N-benzyl-2-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl)propanamide and 2-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl)butanamide in animal models of pain and epilepsy

The purpose of the present study was to examine the analgesic activity of six novel hybrid molecules, which demonstrated in the previous research anticonvulsant activity in the maximal electroshock seizure (MES) and subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole seizure (scPTZ) tests in mice. The antinociceptive properties were estimated in three models of pain in mice—the hot plate test, the formalin test, and in the oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy. Moreover, extended anticonvulsant studies were carried out and the antiseizure activity was investigated in the 6-Hz test. Considering drug safety evaluation, the influence of compounds on locomotor activity and contextual memory were checked. Furthermore, chosen molecules were tested in vitro for potential hepatotoxicity. To explain the probable mechanism of action, the radioligand binding assays were performed. In both phases of formalin test, analgesic activity demonstrated compounds 4, 8, and 9. These agents relieved also mechanical allodynia in oxaliplatin-induced model of neuropathic pain. At active doses, they did not influence locomotor activity of mice. Moreover, for compounds 8 and 9, no deleterious effect on memory was observed, but compound 4 might induce memory deficits. All tested compounds (4, 5, 8, 9, 15, and 16) inhibited psychomotor seizures with the ED₅₀ values = 24.66–47.21 mg/kg. The binding studies showed that compound 4 only at the high concentrations revealed the effective binding to the neuronal sodium channels and moderately binding to the L-type calcium (verapamil site) channels and NMDA receptors. The present preclinical results proved that novel hybrid molecules demonstrate very promising anticonvulsant and analgesic activity.

Usnic acid and atranorin exert selective cytostatic and anti-invasive effects on human prostate and melanoma cancer cells

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

Lichens are an interesting source of potential anti-tumor compounds, among which usnic acid and atranorin seem to be the most promising, but their impact on invasive potential of tumor cells has not yet been comprehensively addressed. The aim of the study was focused on the impact of the two lichen metabolites, on the viability (by Trypan blue test and fluoresceine diacetate and ethidium bromide assay), proliferation (cell counting in a Bürker's chamber), apoptosis (flow cytometry analysis and Western blot) and motile activity (cell movement recording and image analysis) and actin cytoskeleton organization (immunofluorescent staining) of melanoma HTB-140, prostate cancers DU-145 and PC-3, normal human skin fibroblasts and prostate epithelial PNT2 cells, with special emphasis to their selectivity and versatility.

RESULTS

Both compounds exerted strong inhibitory effects on cancer cell proliferation, migration and actin cytoskeleton organization, while their effect on apoptosis process was less relevant. The impact of usnic acid on the examined cancer cells was found more efficient in comparison to atranorin. Also, selective effect of both agents on tumor cells was observed.

SIGNIFICANCE

The ability of usnic acid and atranorin to inhibit cancer cells motility may have future implications for development of new therapeutic strategies targeted at the interference with the metastatic cascade.

STUDIES OF NEW PURINE DERIVATIVES WITH ACETIC ACID MOIETY IN HUMAN KERATINOCYTES

Recently we described a group of purine derivatives based on theophylline structure with acetic acid moiety. Studies in a group of these compounds demonstrated their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Taking into account wide spectrum of theophylline derivatives activity and searching for their new properties. the aim of the study was to evaluate safety of newly synthesized derivatives in human keratinocytes model. The effect of new purine derivatives with acetic acid moiety: 2-(8-methoxy-1,3-dimethyl-2,6-dioxo-purin-7-yl) acetic acid and 2-(1,3-dimethyl-2,6,8-trioxo-9H-purin-7-yl) acetic acid on proliferation rate and the ability of keratinocytes to migration was carried out. The results clearly demonstrate that purine derivatives with acetic acid moiety did not affect basic keratinocytes functions. Our compounds do not inhibit cells proliferation rate as well as their ability to migration. It can be therefore concluded that new purine derivatives with acetic acid moiety are safe versus normal cells. This observation opens up additional prospects in searching for their new applications.

Synergistic Cytotoxic and Anti-invasive Effects of Mitoxantrone and Triterpene Saponins from Lysimachia ciliata on Human Prostate Cancer Cells

Triterpene saponins are secondary metabolites typical for higher plants. They possess a wide range of pharmaceutical and biological activities. These include anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, expectorant, and antitumor properties. In particular, the ability of saponins to enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs has opened new perspectives for their application in combined cancer chemotherapy. In this study, the biological activity of the saponin fraction isolated from Lysimachia ciliata (denoted as CIL-1/2) was evaluated to assess its chemosensitizing activity in prostate cancer cell lines (DU-145, PC-3). No cytotoxic or cytostatic effect of the CIL-1/2 fraction administered at the concentration of 0.5 µg/mL was observed. In contrast, cocktails of CIL-1/2 and mitoxantrone (a drug commonly used in prostate cancer therapy) exerted synergistic cytostatic and proapoptotic effects. Furthermore, the synergy of proapoptotic activities of the analyzed cocktails is accompanied by their synergistic effects on prostate cancer cell movement and invasiveness. The significantly weaker impact of this cocktail on normal prostate cells additionally adds to the significance of our data and confirms that the CIL-1/2 fraction might be considered a potent adjuvant for prostate cancer chemotherapy.

Design, synthesis and anticonvulsant-analgesic activity of new N-[(phenoxy)alkyl]- and N-[(phenoxy)ethoxyethyl]aminoalkanols

New derivatives of N-[(phenoxy)alkyl]- and N-[(phenoxy)ethoxyethyl]aminoalkanols have been synthesized and evaluated for their anticonvulsant activity in maximal electroshock (MES), maximal electroshock seizure threshold (MEST), and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) tests. Their neurotoxicity was evaluated via rotarod and chimney tests. The compounds exhibiting the most beneficial activity and protection indices were evaluated for analgesic activity using the formalin test for neurogenic pain. They were also evaluated for their influence on cytotoxic activity using in vitro cellular models (HepG2 and CRL-2534 cell lines). Experiments performed using MTT and neutral red cytotoxicity assays showed that all evaluated compounds were safe for normal, glial cells (astrocytes) and did not induce hepatotoxic effects. Based on the results from the in vitro studies, the safety of the evaluated compounds was inferred. The most promising compound in this research was 1-{2-[2-(2,3-dimethylphenoxy)ethoxy]ethyl}piperidin-3-ol hydrochloride. Additionally, in silico metabolism prediction for the compound has been performed.

Pentoxifylline and its active metabolite lisofylline attenuate transforming growth factor β1-induced asthmatic bronchial fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition

Bronchial asthma is characterized by persistent airway inflammation and airway wall remodeling. Among many different cells and growth factors triggering changes in bronchi structure, transforming growth factor β1-induced fibroblast to myofibroblast transition is believed to be very important. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether theophylline (used in asthma therapy) and two other methylxanthines (pentoxifylline and its active metabolite lisofylline), may affect transforming growth factor β1-induced fibroblast to myofibroblast transition in bronchial fibroblasts derived from asthmatic patients. We show here for the first time that selected methylxanthines effectively reduce transforming growth factor β1-induced myofibroblast formation in asthmatic bronchial fibroblast populations. PTX was found to be the most effective methylxanthine. The number of differentiated myofibroblasts after PTX, LSF and THEO administration was reduced at least twofold. Studies on the use of methylxanthines opens a new perspective in the development of novel strategies in asthma therapy through their two-pronged, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic action. In the future they can be considered as promising anti-fibrotic drugs.

Anticonvulsant activity, crystal structures, and preliminary safety evaluation of N-trans-cinnamoyl derivatives of selected (un)modified aminoalkanols

Adequate control of seizures remains an unmet need in epilepsy. In order to identify new anticonvulsant agents, a series of N-trans-cinnamoyl derivatives of selected aminoalkanols was synthetized. The compounds were obtained in the reaction of N-acylation carried out in a two-phase system. The substances were tested in animal models of seizures induced either electrically (maximal electroshock--MES; 6-Hz test) or chemically, by subcutaneous injection of pentetrazol (scPTZ). Neurotoxicity was determined by the rotarod test. Lipophilicity of the active compounds, expressed as RM0, was determined by reversed-phase thin layer chromatography and it ranged from 1.390 to 2.219. From among the tested series of compounds, R,S-(E)-N-(1-hydroxypropan-2-yl)-3-phenylprop-2-enamide (1) and R,S-(E)-N-(2-hydroxypropyl)-3-phenylprop-2-enamide (3) exhibited the best anticonvulsant activity. Compound 1, when administered to mice by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection, showed the ED50 values of 86.6, 60.9, and 109.6 mg/kg in the MES, 6-Hz, and scPTZ tests, respectively. For compound 3, the ED50 values were found to be 47.1 mg/kg in MES and 77.1 mg/kg in scPTZ (mice, i.p.). The distances measured in crystals of compound 1 were: 7.99 Å--from the phenyl ring to the hydroxyl group in the amide moiety, 5.729 Å--from the phenyl ring to the amide group, and 3.112 Å--from the amide group to the hydroxyl group in the amide moiety. The reported compounds did not exhibit mutagenic potential when assayed in the Ames test. Compounds 1 and 3 did not affect viability and morphology of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2).

Growth and motility of human skin fibroblasts on multilayer strong polyelectrolyte films

Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) have found application in modifying material surfaces to make them adhesive or non-adhesive for animal cells. However, PEMs made of strong polyelectrolytes are not fully recognized in the literature. This study focuses on the interplay between the properties of PEM assembled from strong polyelectrolytes and cell adhesion and motility. Strong polycations (with quaternary ammonium groups) and a polyanion (with sulfonate groups) were obtained by modification of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH). Two types of multilayer films were assembled from these PAH derivatives and used to investigate the behavior of human skin fibroblasts (HSFs). The effect of surface charge, hydrophobicity, and film thickness on adhesion of HSFs in a serum-containing medium was studied with immunofluorescence microscopy. The results showed that adhesion of HSFs was strongly depended on the chemical functions of the terminal layer, whereas the wettability was not important. The surface of PEM can be strongly cytophobic (the quaternary ammonium terminal groups) or strongly cytophilic (the sulfonate terminal groups). Finally, the motile activity of HSFs seeded on glass coated with a varying number of polymer layers was investigated. It was demonstrated using an in vitro model that coating the substrate with only two polymer layers can considerably increase the average speed of HSFs movement and stimulate cell migration into the wound.

Multidirectional effects of triterpene saponins on cancer cells - mini-review of in vitro studies

Triterpene saponins (saponosides) are found in a variety of higher plants and display a wide range of pharmacological activities, including expectorant, anti-inflamatory, vasoprotective, gastroprotective and antimicrobial properties. Recently, a potential anticancer activity of saponins has been suggested by their cytotoxic, cytostatic, pro-apoptotic and anti-invasive effects. At high concentrations (more than 100 µM) saponins exert cytotoxic and haemolytic effects via permeabilization of the cell membranes. Noteworthy, the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, the induction of apoptosis and attenuation of cell invasiveness is observed in the presence of low saponin concentrations. Saponins might affect the expression of genes associated with malignancy. These alterations are directly related to the invasive phenotype of cancer cells and depend on "cellular context". It illustrates the relationships between the action of saponins, and the momentary genomic/proteomic status of cancer cells. Here, we discuss the hallmarks of anti-cancer activity of saponins with the particular emphasis on anti-invasive effect of diverse groups of saponins that have been investigated in relation to tumor therapy.

Minor triterpene saponins from underground parts of Lysimachia thyrsiflora: structure elucidation, LC-ESI-MS/MS quantification, and biological activity

Two minor triterpene saponins, one previously not reported, were isolated from the underground parts of Lysimachia thyrsiflora L. The structures were determined based on a combination of one- and two-dimensional NMR techniques, and mass spectrometry, as 30-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-3beta,16alpha,30-trihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-yl acetate 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1--> 4)-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->2)-]-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside (denoted as thyrsiloside A), and davuricoside L. Quantitative determination of these two compounds, along with other saponins present in L. thyrsiflora underground parts, was performed by a developed UPLC-ESI-MS/MS method, validated according to the ICH guidelines. The relative total content of triterpene saponins amounted to 1.19 microg/mg dw. Both 4 and 5 were present in minor quantities, 0.031 and 0.077 microg/mg dw, respectively. Assays performed on a panel of human cancer cell lines showed antiproliferative activity against prostate carcinoma PC-3 (GI50 after 48 h = 20 and 24 microg/mL, respectively).

Minor Triterpene Saponins from Underground Parts of Lysimachia thyrsiflora: Structure elucidation, LC-ESI-MS/MS Quantification, and Biological Activity

Two minor triterpene saponins, one previously not reported, were isolated from the underground parts of Lysimachia thyrsiflora L. The structures were determined based on a combination of one- and two-dimensional NMR techniques, and mass spectrometry, as 30- O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-3β,16α,30-trihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-yl acetate 3- O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)- O-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-]- O-α-L-arabinopyranoside (denoted as thyrsiloside A), and davuricoside L. Quantitative determination of these two compounds, along with other saponins present in L. thyrsiflora underground parts, was performed by a developed UPLC-ESI-MS/MS method, validated according to the ICH guidelines. The relative total content of triterpene saponins amounted to 1.19 μg/mg dw. Both 4 and 5 were present in minor quantities, 0.031 and 0.077 μg/mg dw, respectively. Assays performed on a panel of human cancer cell lines showed antiproliferative activity against prostate carcinoma PC-3 (GI50 after 48 h = 20 and 24 μg/mL, respectively).

Apigenin inhibits TGF-β1 induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition in human lung fibroblast populations

BACKGROUND

Flavonoids are dietary plant compounds suspected to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases in several regions of the world. Due to anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities, apigenin (4',5,7,-trihydroxyflavone) is thought to interfere with crucial events in the pathomechanism of asthma. However, the effect of apigenin on TGF-β-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition (FMT) in human lung fibroblast populations, a key event in asthma progression, has not yet been addressed.

METHODS

Primary human bronchial fibroblasts (HBFs) propagated from ex vivo bronchial biopsies derived from patients with diagnosed asthma and human embryonic lung IMR-90 fibroblasts were cultured in vitro and treated with TGF-β1 and apigenin. The myofibroblast fraction in fibroblast populations was evaluated by immunocytochemistry. Expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and tenascin C were assessed at the mRNA and protein level by real-time RT-PCR and immunoblotting, respectively. Additionally, proliferation and viability tests and time lapse-monitoring of movement of individual HBFs and IMR-90 cells were evaluated.

RESULTS

We show that apigenin attenuates TGF-β1-induced FMT in cultures of HBFs, and the magnitude of this attenuation was found to be similar to that observed in the established cell line of lung IMR-90 fibroblasts. Notably, FMT inhibition was observed at low (≈10 μM), non-cytotoxic and non-cytostatic apigenin concentrations and could be correlated with the inhibition of α-SMA and tenascin C expression in HBFs at the mRNA level.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data are the first to demonstrate that apigenin inhibits the TGF-β1-induced expansion of hyper-contractile, α-smooth muscle actin - positive myofibroblasts within populations of HBFs derived from asthmatic patients. They also indicate the possible interference of apigenin with bronchial wall remodeling during the asthmatic process in vivo.

Triterpene saponosides from Lysimachia ciliata differentially attenuate invasive potential of prostate cancer cells

Neither androgen ablation nor chemotherapeutic agents are effective in reducing the risk of prostate cancer progression. On the other hand, multifaceted effects of phytochemicals, such as triterpene saponins, on cancer cells have been suggested. A promising safety and tolerability profile indicate their possible application in the treatment of advanced prostate cancers. We analyzed the specificity, selectivity and versatility of desglucoanagalloside B effects on human prostate cancer cells derived from prostate cancer metastases to brain (DU-145 cells) and bone (PC-3 cells). Prominent growth arrest and apoptotic response of both cell types was observed in the presence of sub-micromolar desglucoanagalloside B concentrations. This was accompanied by cytochrome c release and caspase 3/7 activation. A relatively low cytostatic and pro-apoptotic response of cancer cells to a desglucoanagalloside B analog, anagallosaponin IV, illustrated the specificity of the effects of desglucoanagalloside B, whereas the low sensitivity of normal prostate PNT2 cells to desglucoanagalloside B showed the selectivity of its action. Inhibition of cancer cell motility was observed in the presence of both saponins, however only desglucoanagalloside B attenuated cancer cell invasive potential, predominantly through an effect on cell elastic properties. These data demonstrate the versatility of its effects on prostate cancer cells. In contrast to PNT2 cells, cancer cells tested in this study were relatively resistant to mitoxantrone. The multifaceted action of desglucoanagalloside B on basic cellular traits, crucial for prostate cancer progression, opens perspectives for elaboration of combined palliative therapies and new prostate cancer prophylaxis regimens.

Lclet 4 enhances pro-apoptotic and anti-invasive effects of mitoxantrone on human prostate cancer cells - in vitro study

Triterpene saponosides are widely distributed plant secondary metabolites characterized by relatively low systemic cytotoxicity and a range of biological activities. These include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, vasoprotective and antitumor properties. In particular, the ability of saponins to enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs opened perspectives for their application in combined cancer chemotherapy. Here, we used human prostate cancer DU-145 cells as an in vitro model to elucidate the synergy of the interactions between biological activities of an oleanane type 13β,28-epoxy triterpene saponoside (Lclet 4) and mitoxantrone, which is a cytostatic drug commonly used in prostate cancer therapy. No cytotoxic or pro-apoptotic effect of Lclet 4 and mitoxantrone administered at the concentrations between 0.05 and 0.1 µg/ml could be seen. In contrast, cocktails of these agents exerted synergistic pro-apoptotic effects, accompanied by the activation of the caspase 3/7 system. This effect was paralleled by attenuating effects of Lclet 4/mitoxantrone cocktails on the invasive potential, metalloproteinase expression and motility of DU-145 cells. Multifaceted and additive effects of Lclet 4 and mitoxantrone on basic cellular traits crucial for prostate cancer progression indicate that the combined application of both agents at systemically neutral concentrations may provide the basis for new promising strategies of prostate cancer chemotherapy.

Lclet 4 enhances pro-apoptotic and anti-invasive effects of mitoxantrone on human prostate cancer cells - in vitro study

Triterpene saponosides are widely distributed plant secondary metabolites characterized by relatively low systemic cytotoxicity and a range of biological activities. These include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, vasoprotective and antitumor properties. In particular, the ability of saponins to enhance the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs opened perspectives for their application in combined cancer chemotherapy. Here, we used human prostate cancer DU-145 cells as an in vitro model to elucidate the synergy of the interactions between biological activities of an oleanane type 13β,28-epoxy triterpene saponoside (Lclet 4) and mitoxantrone, which is a cytostatic drug commonly used in prostate cancer therapy. No cytotoxic or pro-apoptotic effect of Lclet 4 and mitoxantrone administered at the concentrations between 0.05 and 0.1 µg/ml could be seen. In contrast, cocktails of these agents exerted synergistic pro-apoptotic effects, accompanied by the activation of the caspase 3/7 system. This effect was paralleled by attenuating effects of Lclet 4/mitoxantrone cocktails on the invasive potential, metalloproteinase expression and motility of DU-145 cells. Multifaceted and additive effects of Lclet 4 and mitoxantrone on basic cellular traits crucial for prostate cancer progression indicate that the combined application of both agents at systemically neutral concentrations may provide the basis for new promising strategies of prostate cancer chemotherapy.

A new cytotoxic triterpene saponin from Lysimachia nummularia L

A new glycosylated triterpene 1 (named nummularoside) was isolated from the underground parts of Lysimachia nummularia L. Its chemical structure was elucidated as 3-O-β-{{[β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→2)]-[β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→4)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)}-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-]-α-L-arabinopyranosyl]}, protoprimulagenin A on the basis of extensive NMR and MS spectral data. The saponin showed significant activity against prostate cancer cells DU145 and PC3 (EC50 1.2 and 7.4 μg/mL, respectively), while it did not affect normal cells (EC50 30 μg/mL), in contrast to the reference compound (mitoxanthrone, EC50 0.45 μg/mL). Glioblastoma cells were also significantly affected by the tested saponin (EC50 6.0 μg/mL), whereas the activity against melanoma cells was moderate (EC50 17.5-23.2 μg/mL).

Transforming growth factor-β₁-induced expression of connective tissue growth factor is enhanced in bronchial fibroblasts derived from asthmatic patients

INTRODUCTION

Bronchial asthma is accompanied by airway remodeling as well as increased secretion of cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular matrix proteins. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been suggested to contribute to many fibrotic disorders. However, the ability of human bronchial fibroblasts (HBFs) to express CTGF in response to transforming growth factor-β₁ (TGF‑β₁) has not been studied so far.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate whether HBFs are able to express CTGF when stimulated with TGF‑β₁.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All experiments were conducted on in vitro cultures of HBFs isolated from bronchial biopsies obtained from 8 patients with asthma and from 5 nonasthmatic individuals. We performed an analysis of changes in mRNA expression for CTGF and α‑smooth muscle actin and in protein expression for CTGF.

RESULTS

We have shown for the first time that HBFs derived from asthmatic patients are capable of higher CTGF expression when stimulated with TGF‑β₁ compared with HBFs isolated from nonasthmatic individuals. Moreover, this effect is significantly reduced after the Wnt signaling pathway activation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results point to a pleiotropic effect of TGF-β₁, the elevated levels of which are observed in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained from asthmatic patients. The structural cells of the bronchi, fibroblasts, stimulated with TGF‑β₁ begin to synthesize CTGF. Moreover, this process can be reversed by the GSK‑3β inhibitor, which activates the Wnt signaling pathway. Our model, based on in vitro primary cell cultures, may be a valuable experimental approach to study the mechanisms underlying bronchial wall remodeling, and in the future it may lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies in asthma.