Discovery of new α-glucosides, antiglycation agent, and in silico study of 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-7,8-dihydroxy-3-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one isolated from Pistacia chinensis

Pistacia chinensis is locally practiced for treating diabetes, pain, inflammation, and erectile dysfunction. Therefore, the current studies subjected the crude extract/fractions and the isolated compound (2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-7,8-dihydroxy-3-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one) to α-glucosidase inhibitor and anti-glycation activities. The development of long-term complications associated with diabetes is primarily caused by chronic hyperglycemia. Regarding α-glucosidase, the most significant inhibitory effect was observed with compound 1 (93.09%), followed by the methanolic extract (80.87%) with IC50 values of 45.86 and 86.32 μM. The maximum anti-glycation potential was shown by an isolated compound 1 followed by methanolic extract with effect inhibition of 90.12 and 72.09, respectively. Compound 1 is expected to have the highest gastrointestinal absorption rate, with a predicted absorption rate of 86.156%. This indicates oral suitability. The compound 1 is expected to have no harmful effects on the liver. In addition, our docking results suggest that alpha-glucosidase and isolated compounds showed strong interaction with ILE821, GLN900, and ALA901 residues, along with a -11.95 docking score.

High-throughput sequencing reveals the structure and metabolic resilience of desert microbiome confronting climate change

Introduction

Desert ecosystems harbor a unique microbial diversity that is crucial for ecological stability and biogeochemical cycles. An in-depth understanding of the biodiversity, compositions, and functions of these microbial communities is imperative to navigate global changes and confront potential threats and opportunities applicable to agricultural ecosystems amid climate change.

Methods

This study explores microbial communities in the rhizosphere and endosphere of desert plants native to the Arabian Peninsula using next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene (V3-V4 hypervariable region).

Results

Our results reveal that each microbial community has a diverse and unique microbial composition. Based on alpha and beta diversity indices, the rhizosphere microbiome is significantly diverse and richer in microbial taxa compared to the endosphere. The data reveals a shift towards fast-growing microbes with active metabolism, involvement in nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, and defense pathways. Our data reveals the presence of habitat-specific microbial communities in the desert, highlighting their remarkable resilience and adaptability to extreme environmental conditions. Notably, we observed the existence of radiation-resistant microbes such as Deinococcus radiotolerans, Kocuria sp., and Rubrobacter radiotolerans which can tolerate high levels of ionizing radiation. Additionally, examples of microbes exhibiting tolerance to challenging conditions include Nocardioides halotolerans, thriving in high-salinity environments, and hyperthermophilic microbes such as Quasibacillus thermotolerans. Moreover, functional analysis reveals enrichment in chaperon biosynthesis pathways associated with correct protein folding under heat stress conditions.

Discussion

Our research sheds light on the unique diversity of desert microbes and underscores their potential applications to increase the resilience of agriculture ecosystems, offering a promising strategy to fortify crops against the challenges posed by climate change, ultimately supporting sustainable food production for our ever-expanding global population.

Density functional theory (DFT), molecular docking, and xanthine oxidase inhibitory studies of dinaphthodiospyrol S from Diospyros kaki L

In this work, we investigated Diospyros kaki extract and an isolated compound for their potential as xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitors, a target enzyme involved in inflammatory disorders. The prepared extract was subjected to column chromatography, and dinaphthodiospyrol S was isolated. Then XO inhibitory properties were assessed using a spectrophotometry microplate reader. DMSO was taken as a negative control, and allopurinol was used as a standard drug. The molecular docking study of the isolated compound to the XO active site was performed, followed by visualization and protein-ligand interaction. The defatted chloroform extract showed the highest inhibitory effect, followed by the chloroform extract and the isolated compound. The isolated compound exhibited significant inhibitory activity against XO with an IC50 value of 1.09 µM. Molecular docking studies showed that the compound strongly interacts with XO, forming hydrogen bond interactions with Arg149 and Cys113 and H-pi interactions with Cys116 and Leu147. The binding score of -7.678 kcal/mol further supported the potential of the isolated compound as an XO inhibitor. The quantum chemical procedures were used to study the electronic behavior of dinaphthodiospyrol S isolated from D. kaki. Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) analysis was performed to understand the distribution of electronic density, highest occupied molecular orbital HOMO, lowest unoccupied molecular orbital LUMO, and energy gaps. The values of HOMO, LUMO, and energy gap were found to be -6.39, -3.51 and 2.88 eV respectively. The FMO results indicated the intramolecular charge transfer. Moreover, reactivity descriptors were also determined to confirm the stability of the compound. The molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) investigation was done to analyze the electrophilic and nucleophilic sites within a molecule. The oxygen atoms in the compound exhibited negative potential, indicating that they are favorable sites for electrophilic attacks. The results indicate its potential as a therapeutic agent for related disorders. Further studies are needed to investigate this compound's in vivo efficacy and safety as a potential drug candidate.

Estimation of dihydroartemisinin in human plasma using a highly sensitive LTQ Orbitrap mass spectrometer with Xcalibur software

Background: Artemether (ARM), the O-methyl ether prodrug of dihydroartemisinin (DHA), is considered a first-line antimalarial agent. Artemether is extensively metabolized in vivo to its active metabolite DHA, and therefore its determination offers considerable difficulties. In the present study, DHA identification and estimation were accurately performed by the mass spectrometric analysis, using a high-resolution liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (LC/ESI-MS) LTQ Orbitrap hybrid mass spectrometer. Methods: The plasma samples were taken from healthy volunteers, and the spiked plasma was extracted by adding 1 mL of a mixture of dichloromethane and tert.-methyl butyl ether (8:2 v/v) to 0.5 mL of plasma. The internal standard solution (artemisinin 500 ng/mL) was added to the plasma samples. After vertexing and centrifugation, the organic layer was separated and transferred into another tube and dried under nitrogen. The residue was reconstituted in 100 μL of acetonitrile and was injected onto the LC-MS system for analysis. Measurement of standards and samples was carried out isocratically on a Surveyor HPLC system combined with an LTQ Orbitrap mass spectrometer using an ACE 5 C18-PFP column. Mobile phase A consisted of 0.1% v/v formic acid in water, Mobile phase B consisted of acetonitrile only, and isocratic elution was carried out with A:B 20:80, v/v. The flow rate was 500 μL/min. The ESI interface was operated in a positive ion mode with a spray voltage of 4.5 kV. Results: Artemether is not a very biologically stable compound and is immediately metabolized to its active metabolite dihydroartemisinin, so no clear peak was observed for artemether. Both artemether and DHA after ionization undergo neutral losses of methanol and water, respectively, in the source of the mass spectrometer. The ions observed were (MH-H₂O) m/z 267.15 for DHA and (MH-m/z 283.15 for internal standard artemisinin. The method was validated according to international guidelines. Discussion: The validated method was applied successfully for the determination and quantification of DHA in plasma samples. This method works well for the extraction of drugs, and the Orbitrap system with the help of Xcalibur software accurately and precisely determines the concentration of DHA in spiked as well as volunteer's plasma.

Discovery of Lactomodulin, a Unique Microbiome-Derived Peptide That Exhibits Dual Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Activity against Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens

The human body is a superorganism that harbors trillions of microbes, most of which inhabit the gut. To colonize our bodies, these microbes have evolved strategies to regulate the immune system and maintain intestinal immune homeostasis by secreting chemical mediators. There is much interest in deciphering these chemicals and furthering their development as novel therapeutics. In this work, we present a combined experimental and computational approach to identifying functional immunomodulatory molecules from the gut microbiome. Based on this approach, we report the discovery of lactomodulin, a unique peptide from Lactobacillus rhamnosus that exhibits dual anti-inflammatory and antibiotic activities and minimal cytotoxicity in human cell lines. Lactomodulin reduces several secreted proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-8, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. As an antibiotic, lactomodulin is effective against a range of human pathogens, and is most potent against antibiotic-resistant strains such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE). The multifunctional activity of lactomodulin affirms that the microbiome encodes evolved functional molecules with promising therapeutic potential.

Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms of the Multitargeted Flavonoid Fisetin

Flavonoids effectively treat cancer, inflammatory disorders (cardiovascular and nervous systems), and oxidative stress. Fisetin, derived from fruits and vegetables, suppresses cancer growth by altering cell cycle parameters that lead to cell death and angiogenesis without affecting healthy cells. Clinical trials are needed in humans to prove the effectiveness of this treatment for a wide range of cancers. According to the results of this study, fisetin can be used to prevent and treat a variety of cancers. Despite early detection and treatment advances, cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. We must take proactive steps to reduce the risk of cancer. The natural flavonoid fisetin has pharmacological properties that suppress cancer growth. This review focuses on the potential drug use of fisetin, which has been extensively explored for its cancer-fighting ability and other pharmacological activities such as diabetes, COVID-19, obesity, allergy, neurological, and bone disorders. Researchers have focused on the molecular function of fisetin. In this review, we have highlighted the biological activities against chronic disorders, including cancer, metabolic illnesses, and degenerative illnesses, of the dietary components of fisetin.

Nanoparticles in clinical trials of COVID-19: An update

Once the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Infectious Disease-19) outbreak to be pandemic, massive efforts have been launched by researchers around the globe to combat this emerging infectious disease. Strategies that must be investigated such as expanding testing capabilities, developing effective medicines, as well as developing safe and effective vaccines for COVID-19 disease that produce long-lasting immunity to human system. Now-a-days, bio-sensing, medication delivery, imaging, and antimicrobial treatment are just a few of the medical applications for nanoparticles (NPs). Since the early 1990s, nanoparticle drug delivery methods have been employed in clinical trials. Since then, the discipline of nanomedicine has evolved in tandem with expanding technological demands to better medicinal delivery. Newer generations of NPs have emerged in recent decades that are capable of performing additional delivery tasks, allowing for therapy via novel therapeutic modalities. Many of these next generation NPs and associated products have entered clinical trials and have been approved for diverse indications in the present clinical environment. For systemic applications, NPs or nanomedicine-based drug delivery systems have substantial benefits over their non-formulated and free drug counterparts. Nanoparticle systems, for example, are capable of delivering medicines and treating parts of the body that are inaccessible to existing delivery systems. As a result, NPs medication delivery is one of the most studied preclinical and clinical systems. NPs-based vaccines delivering SARS-CoV-2 antigens will play an increasingly important role in prolonging or improving COVID-19 vaccination outcomes. This review provides insights about employing NPs-based drug delivery systems for the treatment of COVID-19 to increase the bioavailability of current drugs, reducing their toxicity, and to increase their efficiency. This article also exhibits their capability and efficacy, and highlighting the future aspects and challenges on nanoparticle products in clinical trials of COVID-19.

Neuroinflammatory Markers: Key Indicators in the Pathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neuroinflammation, a protective response of the central nervous system (CNS), is associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The CNS is composed of neurons and glial cells consisting of microglia, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. Entry of any foreign pathogen activates the glial cells (astrocytes and microglia) and overactivation of these cells triggers the release of various neuroinflammatory markers (NMs), such as the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-1β (IL-10), nitric oxide (NO), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), among others. Various studies have shown the role of neuroinflammatory markers in the occurrence, diagnosis, and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. These markers also trigger the formation of various other factors responsible for causing several neuronal diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD), multiple sclerosis (MS), ischemia, and several others. This comprehensive review aims to reveal the mechanism of neuroinflammatory markers (NMs), which could cause different neurodegenerative disorders. Important NMs may represent pathophysiologic processes leading to the generation of neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, various molecular alterations related to neurodegenerative diseases are discussed. Identifying these NMs may assist in the early diagnosis and detection of therapeutic targets for treating various neurodegenerative diseases.

Identification of vaccine and drug targets in Shigella dysenteriae sd197 using reverse vaccinology approach

Shigellosis is characterized as diarrheal disease that causes a high mortality rate especially in children, elderly and immunocompromised patients. More recently, the World Health Organization advised safe vaccine designing against shigellosis due to the emergence of Shigella dysenteriae resistant strains. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify novel drug targets as well as the design of the potential vaccine candidates and chimeric vaccine models against Shigella dysenteriae. A computational based Reverse Vaccinology along with subtractive genomics analysis is one of the robust approaches used for the prioritization of drug targets and vaccine candidates through direct screening of genome sequence assemblies. Herein, a successfully designed peptide-based novel highly antigenic chimeric vaccine candidate against Shigella dysenteriae sd197 strain is proposed. The study resulted in six epitopes from outer membrane WP_000188255.1 (Fe (3+) dicitrate transport protein FecA) that ultimately leads to the construction of twelve vaccine models. Moreover, V9 construct was found to be highly immunogenic, non-toxic, non-allergenic, highly antigenic, and most stable in terms of molecular docking and simulation studies against six HLAs and TLRS/MD complex. So far, this protein and multiepitope have never been characterized as vaccine targets against Shigella dysenteriae. The current study proposed that V9 could be a significant vaccine candidate against shigellosis and to ascertain that further experiments may be applied by the scientific community focused on shigellosis.

Diosgenin: An Updated Pharmacological Review and Therapeutic Perspectives

Plants including Rhizoma polgonati, Smilax china, and Trigonella foenum-graecum contain a lot of diosgenin, a steroidal sapogenin. This bioactive phytochemical has shown high potential and interest in the treatment of various disorders such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and cardiovascular disease, in addition to being an important starting material for the preparation of several steroidal drugs in the pharmaceutical industry. This review aims to provide an overview of the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies reporting the diosgenin's pharmacological effects and to discuss the safety issues. Preclinical studies have shown promising effects on cancer, neuroprotection, atherosclerosis, asthma, bone health, and other pathologies. Clinical investigations have demonstrated diosgenin's nontoxic nature and promising benefits on cognitive function and menopause. However, further well-designed clinical trials are needed to address the other effects seen in preclinical studies, as well as a better knowledge of the diosgenin's safety profile.

Berberine as a Potential Anticancer Agent: A Comprehensive Review

Berberine (BBR), a potential bioactive agent, has remarkable health benefits. A substantial amount of research has been conducted to date to establish the anticancer potential of BBR. The present review consolidates salient information concerning the promising anticancer activity of this compound. The therapeutic efficacy of BBR has been reported in several studies regarding colon, breast, pancreatic, liver, oral, bone, cutaneous, prostate, intestine, and thyroid cancers. BBR prevents cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and controlling the cell cycle as well as autophagy. BBR also hinders tumor cell invasion and metastasis by down-regulating metastasis-related proteins. Moreover, BBR is also beneficial in the early stages of cancer development by lowering epithelial–mesenchymal transition protein expression. Despite its significance as a potentially promising drug candidate, there are currently no pure berberine preparations approved to treat specific ailments. Hence, this review highlights our current comprehensive knowledge of sources, extraction methods, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profiles of berberine, as well as the proposed mechanisms of action associated with its anticancer potential. The information presented here will help provide a baseline for researchers, scientists, and drug developers regarding the use of berberine as a promising candidate in treating different types of cancers.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.): Its Chemistry, Nutritional Composition, Toxicity and Anticancer Properties

The current review discuss the chemistry, nutritional composition, toxicity, and biological functions of garlic and its bioactive compounds against various types of cancers via different anticancer mechanisms. Several scientific documents were found in reliable literature and searched in databases viz Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Research Gate were carried out using keywords such as "garlic", "garlic bioactive compounds", "anticancer mechanisms of garlic", "nutritional composition of garlic", and others. Garlic contains several phytoconstituents with activities against cancer, and these compounds such as diallyl trisulfide (DATS), allicin, and diallyl disulfide (DADS), diallyl sulfide (DAS), and allyl mercaptan (AM). The influence of numerous garlic-derived products, phytochemicals, and nanoformulations on the liver, oral, prostate, breast, gastric, colorectal, skin, and pancreatic cancers has been studied. Based on our search, the bioactive molecules in garlic were found to inhibit the various phases of cancer. Moreover, the compounds in this plant also abrogate the peroxidation of lipids, activity of nitric oxide synthase, epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), protein kinase C, and regulate cell cycle and survival signaling cascades. Hence, garlic and its bioactive molecules exhibit the aforementioned mechanistic actions and thus, they could be used to inhibit the induction, development and progression of cancer. The review describes the nutritional Composition of garlic, its bioactive molecules, and nanoformulations against various types of cancers, as well as the potential for developing these agents as antitumor drugs.

Current advances of functional phytochemicals in Nicotiana plant and related potential value of tobacco processing waste: A review

Tobacco is grown in large quantities worldwide as a widely distributed commercial crop. From the harvest of the field to the process into the final product, a series of procedures generate enormous amount of waste materials that are rarely recycled. In recent years, numerous potential bioactive compounds have been isolated from tobacco, and the molecular regulatory mechanisms related to the performance of some functionalities have been identified. This review describes the source of tobacco waste and expounds a large amount of biomass during the tobacco processing, and the necessity of exploring the reuse of tobacco waste. In addition, the review summarizes the bioactive compounds from tobacco that have been discovered so far, and links them to various functions from tobacco extracts, including anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial, and antioxidant, thus proving the potential value from tobacco waste reuse. In this regard, nornicotine in tobacco is the culprit of many health issues, while the polyphenols and polysaccharides often contribute to the health benefits of tobacco extract. In addition, it is hard to ignore that realization of these functions of tobacco extracts require the involvement of intestinal flora metabolism, which should be considered in the development of new product dosage forms.

Medicinal Applications of Cannabinoids Extracted from Cannabis sativa (L.): A New Route in the Fight Against COVID-19?

Cannabis sativa is a well-known plant that has been recognized for its benefits since ancient times by several medicinal systems, including those of China, India, Greece, and Egypt. Although C. sativa is one of the most investigated medicinal plants in the world, it faces some of the greatest controversies surrounding its legalization and use as a medication. C. sativa contains several hundred phytoconstituents, including the infamous "cannabinoids". It is necessary to properly understand the medicinal importance of these phytochemicals and spread awareness among the countries where cannabis is still facing legal obstacles. The current review focuses on the most recent literature pertaining to various applications of cannabinoids, with a special focus on the medicinal aspect of these phytochemicals. Peer-reviewed articles focusing on the importance of cannabis and cannabinoids are the target of this review. Articles were selected based on the relevance to the general scope of the work, i.e., application of cannabinoids. Cannabinoids can truly be regarded as wonder drugs, considering their immense diversity of usage. Unfortunately, however, many of the mares have never been researched biologically or pharmacologically due to their low yield in the plant. However, the approval of some cannabinoids by the FDA (along with other recognized national medical health systems) has opened the horizon for the use of these natural drugs in medicines such as Epidiolex® (cannabidiol, used for the treatment of severe forms of epilepsy) and Sativex®(Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, used for the treatment of spasticity caused by multiple sclerosis). Many pharmacological properties of C. sativa are attributed to cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component, along with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC), a psychoactive component. This review addresses the most important applications or current utilization of cannabinoids in a variety of treatments such as chronic pain, cancer, emesis, anorexia, irritable bowel syndrome, communicable diseases, glaucoma, and central nervous system disorders. The biosynthetic pathway of cannabinoids is also discussed. In short, cannabis has a myriad of bioactive compounds that have the potential to increase the list of approved cannabinoids suitable for therapy.

How to face COVID-19: proposed treatments based on remdesivir and hydroxychloroquine in the presence of zinc sulfate. Docking/DFT/POM structural analysis

Remdesivir and hydroxychloroquine derivatives form two important classes of heterocyclic compounds. They are known for their anti-malarial biological activity. This research aims to analyze the physicochemical properties of remdesivir and hydroxychloroquine compounds by the computational approach. DFT, docking, and POM analyses also identify antiviral pharmacophore sites of both compounds. The antiviral activity of hydroxychloroquine compound's in the presence of zinc sulfate and azithromycin is evaluated through its capacity to coordinate transition metals (M = Cu, Ni, Zn, Co, Ru, Pt). The obtained bioinformatic results showed the potent antiviral/antibacterial activity of the prepared mixture (Hydroxychloroquine/Azithromycin/Zinc sulfate) for all the opportunistic Gram-positive, Gram-negative in the presence of coronavirus compared with the complexes Polypyridine-Ruthenium-di-aquo. The postulated zinc(II) complex of hydroxychloroquine derivatives are indeed an effective antibacterial and antiviral agent against coronavirus and should be extended to other pathogens. The combination of a pharmacophore site with a redox [Metal(OH₂)₂] moiety is of crucial role to fight against viruses and bacteria strains. [Formula: see text]Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Micro-RNAs in the regulation of immune response against SARS CoV-2 and other viral infections

Background

Micro-RNAs (miRNAS) are non-coding, small RNAs that have essential roles in different biological processes through silencing genes, they consist of 18-24 nucleotide length RNA molecules. Recently, miRNAs have been viewed as important modulators of viral infections they can function as suppressors of gene expression by targeting cellular or viral RNAs during infection.

Aim of review

We describe the biological roles and effects of miRNAs on SARS-CoV-2 life-cycle and pathogenicity, and we discuss the modulation of the immune system with micro-RNAs which would serve as a new foundation for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 and other viral infections.

Key scientific concepts of review

miRNAs are the key players that regulate the expression of the gene in the post-transcriptional phase and have important effects on viral infections, thus are potential targets in the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of viral infections. Besides, micro-RNAs (miRNAs) modulation of immune-pathogenesis responses to viral infection is one of the most-known indirect effects, which leads to suppressing of the interferon (IFN-α/β) signalling cascade or upregulation of the IFN-α/β production another IFN-stimulated gene (ISGs) that inhibit replication of the virus. These virus-mediated alterations in miRNA levels lead to an environment that might either enhance or inhibit virus replication.

Management of Glioblastoma Multiforme by Phytochemicals: Applications of Nanoparticle-Based Targeted Drug Delivery System

The Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM; grade IV astrocytoma) exhorts tumors of star-shaped glial cells in the brain. It is a fast-growing tumor that spreads to nearby brain regions specifically to cerebral hemispheres in frontal and temporal lobes. The etiology of GBM is unknown, but major risk factors are genetic disorders like neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis, which develop the tumor in the nervous system. The management of GBM with chemo-radiotherapy leads to resistance, and current drug regimen like Temozolomide (TMZ) is less efficacious. The reasons behind the failure of drugs are due to DNA alkylation in the cell cycle by enzyme DNA guanidase and mitochondrial dysfunction. Naturally occurring bioactive compounds from plants referred as phytochemicals, serve as vital sources for anti-cancer drugs. Some prototypical examples include taxol analogs, vinca alkaloids (vincristine, vinblastine), podophyllotoxin analogs, camptothecin, curcumin, aloe-emodin, quercetin, berberine etc. These phytochemicals often regulate diverse molecular pathways, which are implicated in the growth and progression of cancers. However, the challenges posed by the presence of BBB/BBTB to restrict the passage of these phytochemicals, culminates in their low bioavailability and relative toxicity. In this review, we integrated nanotech as a novel drug delivery system to deliver phytochemicals from traditional medicine to the specific site within the brain for the management of GBM.

Immune system response during viral Infections: Immunomodulators, cytokine storm (CS) and Immunotherapeutics in COVID-19

Coronaviruses are non-segmented and single stranded positive-sense RNA (+ssRNA) viruses. To date, 06 human coronaviruses (HCoVs) are reported; α-CoVs (HCoVs-NL63 and HCoVs-229E) and β-CoVs (HCoVs-OC43, HCoVs-HKU1, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV). While, novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is the most recent member. The genome sequence of SARS-CoV-2 is 82% similar to SARS-COV-1. The compelling evidences link the progression of viral infection of SARS-CoV-2 with excessive inflammation as a result of the exaggerated immune response and elevated production of "immunocytokines" resulting in cytokine storm (CS); followed by a series of events, like acute organ damage, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) as well as death. Hence attempts to reduce cytokine storm are now being considered as a new paradigm shift in the clinical management of SARS-CoV-2. Tocilizumab (IL-6 blocker), Baricitinib (JAKs and AAK1 inhibitor), TNFα inhibitors (Infliximab, Adalimumab, Certolizumab) are currently being evaluated for possible block of the CS. Hence, rationalizing anti-inflammatory therapeutics would be the most judicious approach for significant reduction in COVID-19 mortality. In order to elucidate optimized and rationaled use of different therapeutics in COVID-19, we collated latest available information from emerging scientific evidences, integrated previous attempts as well as clinical successes, and various adopted approaches to mitigate past outbreaks with of SARS-CoV and MERS CoV.

Synthesis of urease inhibitory 2, 4-bis (4-cyanobenzyl)glycoluril using sandmeyer reaction and density functional theory investigation

AIMS

The aim of present research was to synthesize glycoluril derivative 2,4-Bis(4-cyanobenzyl)glycoluril through convergent scheme.

BACKGROUND

For this purpose Sandmeyer reaction procedure was employed for the synthesis of said compound. The structure of the pure compound was confirmed by using different spectroscopic techniques such as 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and (HR-MS) Mass spectrometry.

OBJECTIVE

Convergent synthesis of 2,4-BIS (4-CYANOBENZYL)GLYCOLURIL USING SANDMEYER REACTION and urease inhibition study.

METHODS

The structure of the pure compound was confirmed by using different spectroscopic techniques such as 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and (HR-MS) Mass spectrometry. The electronic properties of newly synthesized compound and thiourea were determined by using density functional theory.

RESULTS

Furthermore compound was evaluated against urease enzyme and was found to be potent inhibitors with IC50 value of 11.5 ± 1.50 µM when compared with standard inhibitor thiourea (IC50 = 21.0 ± 1.90 µM). Compound may serve as lead compound for the synthesis of new cyano based bambusuril in future with enhanced biological properties.

CONCLUSION

We have synthesized a new glycoluril derivative 2,4-Bis(4-cyanobenzyl)glycoluril by the sandmeyer reaction. It has obtained in the form of light yellowish powder in good yield (96%). Glycoluril based macrocycles have been used in various fields. Starting from the 2,4-Bis(4-nitrobenzyl)glycoluril (already reported compound) which has undergone reduction (CH3OH,Pt/C) , diazotization (NaNO2/HCl), cyanation (CuCl/KCN) respectively in order to synthesize the desired new glycoluril derivative. The obtained product will be used as a building block for the synthesis of the cyano based bambusuril marcocycle in future. The yield of the obtained product has been monitored by using different amount of cyanating reagent but the best results shown by the use of 4 mmol of CuCl/KCN. KCN with CuCl assisted the conversion of diazo group into cyano group with enhanced yield when used in excess amount. It act as a catalyst. Solubility characteristic of 2,4-Bis(4-cyanobenzyl)glycoluril has determined also in different organic solvents. 1H NMR technique proved to be very helpful for the structure determination of our desired product. Benzylic protons give signals at 7.5 ppm and 7.8 ppm respectively. The downfield peaks confirm about the presence of CN group near the benzylic protons. Methine protons show signal at 5.2 ppm which ensures about the basic skeleton of glycoluril. Ureidyl protons also confirm the synthesis of the heterocyclic 2,4-Bis(4-cyanobenzyl)glycoluril compound. The negative and positive electrostatic potential sites, molecular descriptors, and charge density distribution of frontier molecular orbitals are revealing that 4a with promising sites for electrophilic and nucleophilic attacks would result to enhance the urease inhbition which is in good agreement with the experimental data.

Novel Anticancer Dimeric Napthoquiones from Diospyros lotus Having Anti-Tumor, Anti-Inflammatory and Multidrug Resistance Reversal Potential: In Vitro, In Vivo and In Silico Evidence

BACKGROUND

Cancer being a genetically heterogenous and complex disease and the available therapies are not very effective, rendering them the predominant cause of mortality across the world. The discovery of new anticancer drugs with higher efficacy and milder side effects is a great challenge for health professionals.

OBJECTIVE

The current study focused on anticancer potential of two known dimeric napthoquiones, diospyrin (1) and 8-hydroxydiospyrin (2) isolated from the roots of Diospyros lotus.

METHODS

In-vitro Epstein-Barr-Virus (EVA) early antigen activation assay was used to evaluate the antitumor potential of test compounds followed by two-stage carcinogenesis assay on mouse skin for anti-carcinogenic effect. Compounds were also assessed for their multidrug resistance reversal potential. The in-vitro heat induced protein denaturation assay was used for the anti-inflammatory effect of the test compounds.

RESULTS

Both compounds evoked marked cytotoxic activity with IC50 of 47.40 and 36.91 ppm, respectively. In Epstein-Barr-Virus (EVA) early antigen activation assay compounds 1 and 2 showed IC50 values of 426 ppm and 412 ppm, respectively. The tested compounds showed 60% survival rate of the lymphoblastoid Raji cells at a concentration of 1000 (mol / ratio 32 pmol TPA). In two-stage carcinogenesis assay on mouse skin, both compounds significantly delayed the formation of papillomas on mouse skin. Compound 1 showed 50% effect at 14th weeks, whereas compound 2 exerted the same effect at 13th weeks, while both provoked 100% effect at 20th weeks. Both compounds significantly attenuated thermal induced protein denaturation with EC50 values of 298 and 264 µg/mL, respectively. The dimeric napthoquiones were evaluated for their effects on the reversion of multidrug resistant (MDR) cell lines mediated by P-glycoprotein using rhodamine 123 dye-based exclusion screening test on human mdr1 gene transfected thymic lymphoma L5178 cell line. The compounds 1 and 2 exhibited promising MDR reversal effect in a dose-dependent manner against mouse Tlymphoma cell line. Docking results also showed that both compounds have good docking statistics as compared with standard.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the compounds demonstrated marked anti-tumor, anti-carcinogenic, and MDR reversal effects with significant attenuation of thermal induced denaturation of protein. These compounds may explain the traditional uses of D. lotus and might be effective anticancer agents.

Nutritional and health beneficial properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L): a comprehensive review

Saffron (Crocus sativus L., family Iridaceae) is used traditionally for medicinal purpose in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Persian and Unani medicines. The bioactive constituents such as apocarotenoids, monoterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids and phytosterols are widely investigated in experimental and clinical studies for a wide range of therapeutic effects, especially on the nervous system. Some of the active constituents of saffron have high bioavailability and bioaccessibility and ability to pass the blood-brain barrier. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have supported neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, learning and memory-enhancing effect of saffron and its bioactive constituents (safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin). Thus, this plant and its active compounds could be a beneficial medicinal food ingredient in the formation of drugs targeting nervous system disorders. This review focuses on phytochemistry, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of phytochemicals in saffron. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of saffron against different nervous system disorders has also been discussed in detail.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Epidemiology, Etiology, Conventional and Non-Conventional Therapies

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which reported in an outbreak in 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus belongs to the beta-coronavirus class, along with the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus. Interestingly, the virus binds with angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 found in host cells, through the spike (S) protein that exists on its surface. This binding causes the entry of the virus into cells of the host organism. The actual mechanism used by the COVID-19 virus to induce disease is still speculative. A total of 44,322,504 cases, a 1,173,189 death toll and 32,486,703 recovery cases have been reported in 217 countries globally as of 28 October 2020. Symptoms from the infection of the virus include chest pain, fever, fatigue, nausea, and others. Acute respiratory stress syndrome, arrhythmia, and shock are some of the chronic manifestations recorded in severe COVID-19. Transmission is majorly by individual-to-individual through coughing, sneezing, etc. The lack of knowledge regarding the mechanism of and immune response to the virus has posed a challenge in the development of a novel drug and vaccine. Currently, treatment of the disease involves the use of anti-viral medications such as lopinavir, remdesivir, and other drugs. These drugs show some efficacy in the management of COVID-19. Studies are still on-going for the development of an ideal and novel drug for treatment. In terms of natural product intervention, Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) have been employed to alleviate the clinical manifestation and severity of the disease and have shown some efficacy. This review presents an updated detailed overview of COVID-19 and the virus, concerning its structure, epidemiology, symptoms and transmission, immune responses, and current interventions, and highlights the potential of TCM. It is anticipated that this review will further add to the understanding of COVID-19 and the virus, hence opening new research perspectives.

The pharmacological basis of Cuscuta reflexa whole plant as an antiemetic agent in pigeons

Cuscuta reflexa has been traditionally used as an antiemetic. Additionally, it has been used in various herbal formulations for the treatment of emesis. So far, there is no scientific evidence of the plant extract as antiemetic. Therefore, this study was intended to assess the antiemetic activity of Juice (JCR), aqueous (CRAE) and methanolic extract (CRME) of C. reflexa in pigeons. Emesis was induced through GIT irritants like ampicillin (300 mg/kg, IM), copper sulphate (100 mg/kg, PO), conc. sodium chloride solution (1600 mg/kg, PO) and cisplatin (5-HT3 receptor stimulator) (6 mg/kg, IM). Dimenhydrinate acted as a positive control (2 mg/kg; IM). JCR [(1 ml/kg (1 %) and 1 ml/kg (2 %)], CRAE, and CRME were administered intramuscularly at different doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) to each pigeon (n = 6). In each group, calculation of total number of jerks & vomiting episodes, and vomiting-weight was carried out to evaluate its antiemetic activity. The JCR exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) antiemetic impact on both the frequency and onset of emesis at 1 ml/kg (2 %) against various emesis mediator, except sodium chloride. Similarly, CRAE and CRME elicited marked dose dependent inhibition both on onset and frequency of emesis with highly significant (p < 0.001) effect at 200 mg/kg. The study reflects that juice, aqueous and methanolic extract of C. reflexa have significant antiemetic potential and possess pharmacological active constituent(s) that interfered with the emetic mediators by acting through GIT irritation and 5-HT3 receptor stimulations. Results of this study provide a scientific background to its traditional antiemetic uses.

Anti-inflammatory and In Silico Docking Studies of Heterophragma adenophyllum Seem Stem Constituents

Heterophragma adenophyllum is a traditional medicinal plant that has been used as anti-inflammatory and to relief muscular tension. In the current research, four isolated constitutes namely lapacho (1), peshawaraquinone (2), indanone derivatives (3), α-lapachone (4) of H. adenophyllum were tested for anti-inflammatory effect using the carrageenan- and histamine-induced paw edema paradigm. The tested compounds (1-4) were evaluated for anti-inflammatory effect during the early and late phase of edema induction. In the early phase, all tested compounds (0.5 2.5 mg/kg each i.p.) demonstrated less than 50% effect, while in the later phase, compounds (2 and 3) demonstrated 85.66 and 89.87% attenuation. In addition, compounds (1-4) were subjected to histamine-induced inflammation, where compounds 2 and 3 exhibited excellent effects 86.87 and 89.98%, respectively at 5 mg/kg after the 2nd hour of administration, whereas compounds 1 and 4 did not exhibit any significant effect as compared with the negative control. Molecular docking results revealed a very high potency of compound based on the protein-ligand interaction (PLI) profile, which was further evaluated through a molecular dynamic simulation study. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory effect of H. adenophyllum attributed to the presence of these bioactive compounds (1-4) strongly supports the traditional uses of H. adenophyllum for treatment of inflammation. However, compounds 2 and 3 which exerted anti-inflammatory effect must be subjected for further mechanistic studies.

Sesquiterpenes and their derivatives-natural anticancer compounds: An update

Sesquiterpenes belong to the largest group of plant secondary metabolites, which consist of three isoprene building units. These compounds are widely distributed in various angiosperms, a few gymnosperms and bryophytes. Sesquiterpenes and their allied derivatives are bio-synthesized in various plant parts including leaves, fruits and roots. These plant-based metabolites are predominantly identified in the Asteraceae family, wherein up to 5000 complexes have been documented to date. Sesquiterpenes and their derivatives are characteristically associated with plant defence mechanisms owing to their antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral activities. Over the last two decades, these compounds have been reportedly demonstrated health promoting perspectives against a wide range of metabolic syndromes i.e. hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular complications, neural disorders, diabetes, and cancer. The high potential of sesquiterpenes and their derivatives against various cancers like breast, colon, bladder, pancreatic, prostate, cervical, brain, liver, blood, ovarium, bone, endometrial, oral, lung, eye, stomach and kidney are the object of this review. Predominantly, it recapitulates the literature elucidating sesquiterpenes and their derivatives while highlighting the mechanistic approaches associated with their potent anticancer activities such as modulating nuclear factor kappa (NF-kB) activity, inhibitory action against lipid peroxidation and retarding the production of reactive oxygen & nitrogen species (ROS&RNS).

Density functional theory, molecular docking and in vivo muscle relaxant, sedative, and analgesic studies of indanone derivatives isolated from Heterophragma adenophyllum

Heterophragma adenophyllum (HA) is an important medicinal plant which is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of muscular tension and pain. Herein, we report the isolation of methyl,1,2-dihydroxy-2-(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl)-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indene-1-carboxylate (1), from the roots of H. adenophyllum. The isolated compound 1 was evaluated for in vivo muscle relaxant, sedative, and analgesic potential in Swiss albino mice. Results revealed that the isolated compound 1 exhibited a dose- and time-dependent muscle coordination (51%) and a significant (p < 01) sedative effect. It also showed a considerable (p < 0.5) analgesia after 30 min of post treatment and was maintained for up-to 120 min of experimental duration. In acute toxicity studies, no mortality was observed which indicates a preliminary safety of compound 1. Furthermore, the experimental results were compared with the theoretical studies by using density functional theory (DFT). The stability of the compound as well as the flow of electrons was determined by the calculated Frontier orbital analysis. The calculated stretching frequencies, ¹H-NMR/¹³C-NMR chemical shift values and UV-visible spectra were found to be in agreement with experimental values. The results obtained from molecular docking studies were used to explore the mechanism of analgesic and muscle relaxant activity.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

In vivo analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative activity and a molecular docking study of dinaphthodiospyrol G isolated from Diospyros lotus

BACKGROUND

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative drugs are available with potential side effects such as peptic ulcer and addiction among other things. In this regard, research is underway to find safe, effective, and economical drugs free of these side effects. In this study, an isolated natural product from Diospyros lotus, was tested for the aforementioned bioactivities.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative potential of D. lotus extracts in animal paradigms using BALB/c mice as experimental model.

METHODS

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and sedative activities of dinaphthodiospyrol G (1) isolated from the chloroform fraction of D. lotus were evaluated using different experimental procedures. Anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using the carrageenan and histamine-induced paw edema, whereas the antinociceptive effect was quantified by means of the hot plate analgesiometer. On the other hand, the sedative effect was determined using animal assay for screening the locomotors effects of compound 1. Compound 1 was also subjected to molecular modeling studies against cyclooxygenase enzymes.

RESULTS

Results from this investigation showed that the extract is devoid of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive potentials but has a significant sedative effect, whereas the tested compound exhibited 55.23 and 78.34% attenuation in paw edema by carrageenan and histamine assays, respectively. A significant (p < 0.001) and dose-dependent antinociceptive and sedative effects were demonstrated by the isolated compound. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies of the isolated compound against cyclooxygenase enzyme indicated that compound 1 forms specific interactions with key residues in the active site of the target receptor, which validates the potential use of the isolated compound as cyclooxygenase inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

Compound 1 exhibited remarkable analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative activities. These findings strongly justify the traditional use of D. lotus in the treatment of inflammation, pain, and insomnia.

Targeted delivery of miRNA based therapeuticals in the clinical management of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive (WHO grade IV) form of diffuse glioma endowed with tremendous invasive capacity. The availability of narrow therapeutic choices for GBM management adds to the irony, even the post-treatment median survival time is roughly around 14-16 months. Gene mutations seem to be cardinal to GBM formation, owing to involvement of amplified and mutated receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-encoding genes, leading to dysregulation of growth factor signaling pathways. Of-late, the role of different microRNAs (miRNAs) in progression and proliferation of GBM was realized, which lead to their burgeon potential applications for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. miRNA signatures are intricately linked with onset and progression of GBM. Although, progression of GBM causes significant changes in the BBB to form BBTB, but still efficient passage of cancer therapeutics, including antibodies and miRNAs are prevented, leading to low bioavailability. Recent developments in the nanomedicine field provide novel approaches to manage GBM via efficient and brain targeted delivery of miRNAs either alone or as part of cytotoxic pharmaceutical composition, thereby modulating cell signaling in well predicted manner to promise positive therapeutic outcomes.

Proanthocyanidins: A comprehensive review

Proanthocyanidins are condensed tannins with various pharmacological properties. These phytochemicals are considered as 'offense and defense molecules because of their human health benefits. The validation of their diverse health aspects, namely, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and antimicrobial has earned them repute in thermochemistry. Proanthocyanidins are oligo- or polymers of monomeric flavan-3-ols produced as an end product of flavonoid biosynthetic pathway. Agricultural wastes and food processing wastes contain immense amount of proanthocyanidins, exploitation of which can be a sustainable source of dietary supplements and functional ingredients. The current review article discusses recent developments in the health promoting properties of proanthocyanidins and the associated hurdles.

Luteolin, a flavonoid, as an anticancer agent: A review

Many food-derived phytochemicals and their derivatives represent a cornucopia of new anti-cancer compounds. Luteolin (3,4,5,7-tetrahydroxy flavone) is a flavonoid found in different plants such as vegetables, medicinal herbs, and fruits. It acts as an anticancer agent against various types of human malignancies such as lung, breast, glioblastoma, prostate, colon, and pancreatic cancers. It also blocks cancer development in vitro and in vivo by inhibition of proliferation of tumor cells, protection from carcinogenic stimuli, and activation of cell cycle arrest, and by inducing apoptosis through different signaling pathways. Luteolin can additionally reverse epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through a mechanism that involves cytoskeleton shrinkage, induction of the epithelial biomarker E-cadherin expression, and by down-regulation of the mesenchymal biomarkers N-cadherin, snail, and vimentin. Furthermore, luteolin increases levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activation of lethal endoplasmic reticulum stress response and mitochondrial dysfunction in glioblastoma cells, and by activation of ER stress-associated proteins expressions, including phosphorylation of eIF2α, PERK, CHOP, ATF4, and cleaved-caspase 12. Accordingly, the present review article summarizes the progress of recent research on luteolin against several human cancers.

Anti-Dengue, Cytotoxicity, Antifungal, and In Silico Study of the Newly Synthesized 3-O-Phospo-α-D-Glucopyranuronic Acid Compound

The aim of the current study was to synthesize new bioactive compounds and evaluate their therapeutic relevance. The chemical structure of compound 7 (methyl 3-O-phospo-α-D-glucopyranuronic acid was elucidated by physical and advance spectral technique. Also, this compound was assessed for various in vitro biological screening. The results showed that compound 7 has promising antifungal activity against selected fungal strains. Computational study was also carried out to find antimalarial efficacy of the synthesized compounds. Compounds (2-7) were tested for cytotoxicity by MTT assay, and no considerable cytotoxicity was observed. Molecular docking study was performed to predict the binding modes of new compound (7). The docking results revealed that the compound has strong attraction towards the target protein, as characterized by good bonding networks. On the basis of the acquired results, it can be predicted that compound (7) might show good inhibitory activity against dengue envelope protein.

Stress-driven discovery in the natural products: A gateway towards new drugs

Elicitation by chemical means including heavy metals is one of a novel technique for drug discoveries. In this review, the effect of heavy metals on animal, plants and microorganisms for the production of novel compounds with the unique structures has been discussed. The number of parameters such as metal concentration, type, dose, treatment schedule, duration of metal exposure, and nutrient composition are significant factors altering the secondary metabolites production. The detailed illustrated diagram representing the mode of action of metal stress has also been discussed. This is the first article reporting all the novel compounds produced from plants and microorganisms in response to metal-stress with their pharmacological potential. This new technique opens the new way for drug discovery from natural products.

Urease inhibitory potential of extracts and active phytochemicals of Hypochaeris radicata (Asteraceae)

Urease inhibition potential of compound (1), guaiane-type sesquiterpene (2), confertin (3) and scopoletin (4) was carried out with high throughout mechanism-based assay. These compounds were isolated from Hypochaeris radicata L., an Asteraceae family member. The pure compounds were screened for their urease and carbonic anhydrase inhibitory activities. The ethyl acetate fractions were subjected to column chromatography, which resulted in the isolation and purification of four compounds (1-4). On evaluation, compounds (1-4) exhibited selective activity against urease enzyme with an IC₅₀ value of 180.11 ± 2.00, 27.18 ± 0.80, 24.12 ± 0.2 and 30.12 ± 1.10 µM respectively. The compounds (1-4) were found to be inactive against carbonic anhydrase enzyme. Thiourea was used as standard inhibitor (21 ± 0.14 µM) of urease enzyme.

Thymoquinone: A novel strategy to combat cancer: A review

The higher consumption of fruit, herbs, spices, and vegetables is well known and practical strategy to cure human cancers owing to their presence of bioactive compounds. Among these, Nigella sativa is a promising source of bioactive compounds including thymoquinone, monoterpenes, p-cymene and α-piene etc. Thymoquinone has been found effective to inhibit the different cancer stages such as proliferation, migration and invasion. It also acts as anticancer agent against different human cancers such as breast, pancreatic, prostate, blood, oral, bone, head and neck, cervical, liver and lung. It significantly mediated miR-34a up-regulation, enhanced the levels of miR-34a through p53, and down controlled Rac1 expression. Thymoquinone induces apoptosis, regulates the levels of pro- and anti- apoptotic genes. It also has been known to lower the phosphorylation of NF-κB and IKKα/β and reduces the metastasis as well as also lowered the ERK1/2 and PI3K activities. Thymoquinone inhibits the metastasis through activation of JNK and p38. The present review article highlights the anticancer perspectives of thymoquinone in human by various pathways and use of this compound as diet based therapy has proven new pharmacological agent against several types of cancers.

Antidepressant Potential of Peptides: New Insights as Future Therapeutic

Conclusion:

This mini-review will focus on peptides with reported antidepressant activity, along with their mechanism of action. Furthermore, the present article summarizes the literature pertaining to these peptides as antidepressant agents.

Pharmacological validation of the anxiolytic, muscle relaxant and sedative like activities of Capsicum annuum in animal model

<p class="Abstract">The current study deals with anxiolytic, muscle relaxant and sedative like activities of Capsicum annuum in animal models. The crude extract was found safe in acute behavior and toxicity studies. However, the n-hexane fraction caused severe acute toxicity. Pretreatment of crude extract and n-hexane fraction elicited marked dose-dependent antianxiety-like effects in elevated plus-maze and dark and light models. The results showed significant (p&lt; 0.05) antianxiety-like effects of crude extract while highly significant (p&lt; 0.001) for n-hexane fraction. Similarly, an effect on muscle coordination was tested in traction model, where both crude extract and n-hexane fraction evoked marked dose-dependent activity. The effect of thiopental-induced sleep test of crude extract and n-hexane fraction was highly significant (p&lt; 0.001). All together, the results revealed potent anxiolytic, muscle relaxant and sedative like activities of C. annuum in animal models and the pharmaco-logically active constituents are mostly non-polar in nature.</p><p><strong>Video Clip of Methodology</strong>:</p><p>4 min 31 sec:   <a href="https://youtube.com/v/85ituFAi6sw">Full Screen</a>   <a href="https://youtube.com/watch?v=85ituFAi6sw">Alternate</a></p>

Epitopes based drug design for dengue virus envelope protein: A computational approach

Dengue virus (DENV) has emerged as a rapidly spreading epidemic throughout the tropical and subtropical regions around the globe. No suitable drug has been designed yet to fight against DENV, therefore, the need for safe and effective antiviral drug has become imperative. The envelope protein of DENV is responsible for mediating the fusion process between viral and host membranes. This work reports an in silico approach to target B and T cell epitopes for dengue envelope protein inhibition. A conserved region "QHGTI" in B and T cell epitopes of dengue envelope glycoprotein was confirmed to be valid for targeting by visualizing its interactions with the host cell membrane TIM-1 protein which acts as a receptor for serotype 2 and 3. A reverse pharmacophore mapping approach was used to generate a seven featured pharmacophore model on the basis of predicted epitope. This pharmacophore model as a 3D query was used to virtually screen a chemical compounds dataset "Chembridge". A total of 1010 compounds mapped on the developed pharmacophore model. These retrieved hits were subjected to filtering via Lipinski's rule of five, as a result 442 molecules were shortlisted for further assessment using molecular docking. Finally, 14 hits of different structural properties having interactions with the active site residues of dengue envelope glycoprotein were selected as lead candidates. These structurally diverse lead candidates have strong likelihood to act as further starting structures in the development of novel and potential drugs for the treatment of dengue fever.

Gastrointestinal Motility and Acute Toxicity of Pistagremic Acid Isolated from the Galls of Pistacia integerrima

BACKGROUND

Pistacia integerrima has many medicinal uses in therapeutic as well as folk medicine. P. integerrima has been used for the treatment of different ailments such as blood purifier, anti-inflammatory, and as remedy for gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting and diarrhea, expectorant, cough, asthma and fever.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this research work was to evaluate the effect of pistagremic acid (PA) isolated from the galls of Pistacia integerima in acute toxicity and gastrointestinal (GIT) motility tests.

METHODS

Compound 1 namely pistagremic acid (PA) (at 10, 50, 100 mg/kg i.p) were assessed for their in-vivo gastrointestinal motility test using charcoal screening model.

RESULTS

Results revealed that pretreatment of PA exhibited substantial safety in acute toxicity test up to the dose of 500 mg/kg p.o. However, when studied in charcoal meal GI transit test, PA caused significant (p < 0.05) attenuation of GIT motility and an increase in intestinal transit time, comparable to atropine (a muscarinic receptor blocking agent).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, PA displayed a strong dose-dependent reduction in GIT motility with considerable safety.

Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone (RAAS): The ubiquitous system for homeostasis and pathologies

Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is a vital system of human body, as it maintains plasma sodium concentration, arterial blood pressure and extracellular volume. Kidney-secreted renin enzyme acts on its substrate to form angiotensin II, a versatile effector peptide hormone. Every organ is affected by RAAS activation and the resultant hypertension, cell proliferation, inflammation, and fibrosis. The imbalance of renin and angiotensin II can result in an overwhelming number of chronic and acute diseases. RAAS is influenced by other enzymes, hormones, pumps and signaling pathways, hence, this review discusses important facets of this system, its crosstalk with other crucial factors like estrogen, thyroid, cortisol, kallikrein-kinin system, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and sodium-potassium pump. The nexus of RAAS with the above-discussed systems was scantily explored before. So, this review furnishes a new perspective in comprehension of inflammation diseases. It is followed by the formulation of hypotheses, which can contribute to better management of an array of pathologies plaguing mankind. Manipulation of RAAS, by bending it towards ACE2 expression can regulate endocrine functions, which can be critical for a number of pathological management. Dietary intervention can restore RAAS to normalcy.

Electronic structure and stability of benzotriazoles

The electronic structures and relative stabilities of N-substituted benzotriazoles (BtR) have been studied by UV photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) and high-level ab initio methods. We show that the UPS spectrum of 1H-benzotriazole corresponds to a mixture of tautomers. The N-substituent effects in benzotriazoles were shown to depend on the mode of attachment of the substituent to the Bt residue. We have estimated the conjugation effects between benzene and triazole rings in N-substituted benzotriazoles by using isodesmic reactions and high-level composite ab initio methods. The 2H-benzotriazoles (Bt2R) appear to be stabilized upon ring conjugation while on the other hand the 1H-benzotriazoles (Bt1R) are destabilized. The electronic structure of benzotriazoles can be related to photocycloaddition reactions and to regioselectivity exhibited during nitration.