Photochemistry of (n-Bu4N)2[Pt(NO3)6] in acetonitrile

Photochemistry of the (n-Bu4N)2[Pt(NO3)6] complex in acetonitrile was studied by means of stationary photolysis and nanosecond laser flash photolysis. The primary photochemical process was found to be an intramolecular electron transfer followed by an escape of an •NO3 radical to the solution bulk. The spectra of two successive Pt(III) intermediates were detected in the microsecond time domain, and their spectral and kinetic characteristics were determined. These intermediates were identified as PtIII(NO3)52- and PtIII(NO3)4- complexes. Disproportionation of Pt(III) species resulted in formation of final Pt(II) products.

Novel pyridyl-substituted nitronyl nitroxides as potential antiarrhythmic and hypotensive agents with low toxicity and enhanced stability in aqueous solutions

This study explores the antiarrhythmic and hypotensive potential of pyridyl-substituted nitronyl nitroxides derivatives, uncovering the crucial role of a single carbon moiety of the pyridine cycle alongside radical and charged oxygen centers of the imidazoline fragment. Notably, the introduction of fluorine atoms diminished the antiarrhythmic effect, while the most potent derivatives featured the nitronyl nitroxide pattern positioned at the third site of the pyridine cycle. Gender-dependent responses were observed in lead compounds LCF3 and LMe, with LMe inducing temporary bradycardia and hypotension specifically in female rats, and LCF3 causing significant blood pressure reduction followed by rebound in females compared to milder effects in males. Mechanistic insights point towards β1 adrenoceptor blockade as an underlying mechanism, supported by experiments on isolated rat atria. This research underscores the interplay between structure, cardiovascular effects and gender-specific responses, offering insights for therapeutic strategies for treating free radical-associated cardiovascular disorders.

Water-Soluble Polyoxometal Clusters of Molybdenum (V) with Pyrazole and Triazole: Synthesis and Study of Cytotoxicity and Antiviral Activity

Among well-studied and actively developing compounds are polyoxometalates (POMs), which show application in many fields. Extending this class of compounds, we introduce a new subclass of polyoxometal clusters (POMCs) [Mo12O28(μ-L)8]4- (L = pyrazolate (pz) or triazolate (1,2,3-trz or 1,2,4-trz)), structurally similar to POM, but containing binuclear Mo2O4 clusters linked by bridging oxo- and organic ligands. The complexes obtained by ampoule synthesis from the binuclear cluster [Mo2O4(C2O4)2(H2O)2]2- in a melt of an organic ligand are soluble and stable in aqueous solutions. In addition to the detailed characterization in solid state and in aqueous solution, the biological properties of the compounds on normal and cancer cells were investigated, and antiviral activity against influenza A virus (subtype H5N1) was demonstrated.

PEGylation of Terminal Ligands as a Route to Decrease the Toxicity of Radiocontrast Re6-Clusters

The development of novel radiocontrast agents, mainly used for the visualization of blood vessels, is still an emerging task due to the variety of side effects of conventional X-ray contrast media. Recently, we have shown that octahedral chalcogenide rhenium clusters with phosphine ligands-Na2H14[{Re6Q8}(P(C2H4COO)3)6] (Q = S, Se)-can be considered as promising X-ray contrast agents if their relatively high toxicity related to the high charge of the complexes can be overcome. To address this issue, we propose one of the most widely used methods for tuning the properties of proteins and peptides-PEGylation (PEG is polyethylene glycol). The reaction between the clusters and PEG-400 was carried out in acidic aqueous media and resulted in the binding of up to five carboxylate groups with PEG. The study of cytotoxicity against Hep-2 cells and acute toxicity in mice showed a twofold reduction in toxicity after PEGylation, demonstrating the success of the strategy chosen. Finally, the compound obtained has been used for the visualization of blood vessels of laboratory rats by angiography and computed tomography.

Tuning Reactivity of Zr-Substituted Keggin Phosphotungstate in Alkene Epoxidation through Balancing H2O2 Activation Pathways: Unusual Effect of Base

The Zr-monosubstituted Keggin-type dimeric phosphotungstate (Bu4N)8[{PW11O39Zr(μ-OH)(H2O)}2] (1) efficiently catalyzes epoxidation of C═C bonds in various kinds of alkenes, including terminal ones, with aqueous H2O2 as oxidant. Less sterically hindered double bonds are preferably epoxidized despite their lower nucleophilicity. Basic additives (Bu4NOH) in the amount of 1 equiv per dimer 1 suppress H2O2 unproductive decomposition, increase substrate conversion, improve yield of heterolytic oxidation products and oxidant utilization efficiency, and also affect regioselectivity of epoxidation, enhancing oxygen transfer to sterically hindered electron-rich C═C bonds. Acid additives produce a reverse effect on the substrate conversion and H2O2 efficiency. The reaction mechanism was explored using a range of test substrates, kinetic, and spectroscopic tools. The opposite effects of acid and base additives on alkene epoxidation and H2O2 degradation have been rationalized in terms of their impact on hydrolysis of 1 to form monomeric species, [PW11O39Zr(OH)(H2O)x]4- (1-M, x = 1 or 2), which favors H2O2 homolytic decomposition. The interaction of 1 with H2O2 has been investigated by HR-ESI-MS, ATR-FT-IR, and 31P NMR spectroscopic techniques. The combination of spectroscopic studies and kinetic modeling implicated the existence of two types of dimeric peroxo complexes, [Zr2(μ-η2:η2-O2){PW11O39}2(H2O)x]]8- and [{Zr(μ-η2-O2)}2(PW11O39)2(H2O)y]10-, along with monomeric Zr (hydro)peroxo species that begin to dominate at a high excess of H2O2. Both dimeric μ-η2-peroxo intermediates are inert toward alkenes under stoichiometric conditions. V-shape Hammett plots obtained for epoxidation of p-substituted styrenes suggested a biphilic nature of the active oxidizing species, which are monomeric Zr-hydroperoxo and peroxo species. Small basic additives increase the electrophilicity of the catalyst and decrease its nucleophilicity. HR-ESI-MS has identified a dimeric, most likely, bridging hydroperoxo species [{PW11O39Zr}2(μ-O)(μ-OOH)]9-, which may account for the improved epoxidation selectivity and regioselectivity toward sterically hindered C═C bonds.

Animal Metabolite Database: Metabolite Concentrations in Animal Tissues and Convenient Comparison of Quantitative Metabolomic Data

The Animal Metabolite Database (AMDB, https://amdb.online) is a freely accessible database with built-in statistical analysis tools, allowing one to browse and compare quantitative metabolomics data and raw NMR and MS data, as well as sample metadata, with a focus on the metabolite concentrations rather than on the raw data itself. AMDB also functions as a platform for the metabolomics community, providing convenient deposition and exchange of quantitative metabolomic data. To date, the majority of the data in AMDB relate to the metabolite content of the eye lens and blood of vertebrates, primarily wild species from Siberia, Russia and laboratory rodents. However, data on other tissues (muscle, heart, liver, brain, and more) are also present, and the list of species and tissues is constantly growing. Typically, every sample in AMDB contains concentrations of 60-90 of the most abundant metabolites, provided in nanomoles per gram of wet tissue weight (nmol/g). We believe that AMDB will become a widely used tool in the community, as typical metabolite baseline concentrations in tissues of animal models will aid in a wide variety of fundamental and applied scientific fields, including, but not limited to, animal modeling of human diseases, assessment of medical formulations, and evolutionary and environmental studies.

Chemical Diversity of Mo5S5 Clusters with Pyrazole: Synthesis, Redox and UV-vis-NIR Absorption Properties

The chemistry of transition metal clusters has been intensively developed in the last decades, leading to the preparation of a number of compounds with promising and practically useful properties. In this context, the present work demonstrates the preparation and study of the reactivity, i.e., the possibility of varying the ligand environment, of new square pyramidal molybdenum chalcogenide clusters [{Mo5(μ3-S)i4(μ4-S)i(μ-pz)i4}(pzH)t5]1+/2+ (pzH = pyrazole, i = inner, t = terminal). The one-step synthesis starting from the octahedral Mo6Br12 cluster as well as the substitution of the apical pyrazole ligand or the selective bromination of the inner pyrazolate ligands were demonstrated. All the obtained compounds were characterized in detail using a series of physicochemical methods both in solid state (X-ray diffraction analysis, etc.) and in solution (nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, etc.). In this work, redox properties and absorption in the ultraviolet-visible and near-infrared region of the obtained compounds were studied.

From K6[Re6-xMoxS8(CN)5] Solid Solution to Individual Cluster Complexes: Separation and Investigation of [Re4Mo2S8(CN)6]n- and [Re3Mo3S8(CN)6]n- Heterometallic Clusters

A series of new cluster compounds with {Re4Mo2S8} and {Re3Mo3S8} cores has been obtained and investigated. The clusters with different Re/Mo ratios were isolated as individual compounds, which made it possible to study their spectroscopic and electrochemical properties. The geometry of the new clusters was studied using a combination of X-ray diffraction analysis, XAS and quantum chemical DFT calculations. It was shown that the properties of the new clusters, such as the number and position of electrochemical transitions, electronic structure and change in geometry with a change in charge, are similar to the properties of clusters based on the {Re4Mo2Se8} and {Re3Mo3Se8} cores described earlier.

A new view on the mechanism of UV photodegradation of the tricyclic antidepressant carbamazepine in aqueous solutions

Mechanism of direct UV photolysis of the tricyclic antidepressant carbamazepine (CBZ) at neutral pH was revealed by a combination of nanosecond laser flash photolysis, steady-state photolysis combined with high resolution LC-MS and DFT quantum-chemical calculations. The detection of short-lived intermediates and the detailed identification of final products were performed for the first time. The quantum yield of CBZ photodegradation (282 nm) is about 0.1% and 0.18% in air-equilibrated and argon-saturated solutions. The primary stage is photoionization with the formation of CBZ cation radical followed by a rapid nucleophilic attack by a solvent molecule. The primary photoproducts are 10-oxo-9-hydro-carbamazepine, 9-formylacridine-10(9H)-carboxamide (a result of ring contraction) and various isomers of hydroxylated CBZ. Prolonged irradiation results to accumulation of acridine derivatives, which should lead to an increase of the toxicity of photolyzed CBZ solutions. The obtained results may be important for understanding the fate of tricyclic antidepressants in processes of UVC disinfection and in natural waters under action of sunlight.

Direct UV photodegradation of nalidixic acid in aqueous solutions: A mechanistic study

Mechanism of direct UV photolysis of nalidixic acid (NA), a model quinolone antibiotic, was revealed using a combination of steady-state photolysis coupled with high resolution LC-MS and DFT quantum-chemical calculations. Both quantum yields of photodegradation and detailed identification of final products were performed for the first time for two main forms of NA: neutral and anionic. The quantum yield of NA photodegradation is 0.024 and 0.0032 for the neutral and anionic forms in the presence of dissolved oxygen and 0.016/0.0032 in deoxygenated solutions, respectively. The main process is photoionization with the formation of a cation radical, which undergoes transformation into three different neutral radicals and further into final photoproducts. It is shown that the triplet state does not play a role in the photolysis of this compound. The main products of photolysis are the products of the loss of carboxyl, methyl and ethyl groups in the NA molecule, as well as the dehydrogenation of the ethyl group. The results obtained may be important for understanding the fate of pyridine herbicides in the processes of disinfection by UV and in natural waters under the action of sunlight.

Blatter Radical-Decorated Silica as a Prospective Adsorbent for Selective NO Capture from Air

Nitrogen oxides are adverse poisonous gases present in the atmosphere and having detrimental effects on the human health and environment. In this work, we propose a new type of mesoporous materials capable of capturing nitrogen monoxide (NO) from air. The designed material combines the robust Santa Barbara Amorphous-15 silica scaffold and ultrastable Blatter-type radicals acting as NO traps. Using in situ electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, we demonstrate that NO capture from air is selective and reversible at practical conditions, thus making Blatter radical-decorated silica highly promising for environmental applications.

Coordination of Pt(IV) by {P8W48} Macrocyclic Inorganic Cavitand: Structural, Solution, and Electrochemical Studies

Hydrothermal reaction of a macrocyclic inorganic POM cavitand Li₁₇(NH₄)₂₁H₂[P₈W₄₈O₁₈₄] with [Pt(H₂O)₂(OH)₄] results in coordination of up to six {Pt(H₂O)_x(OH)_4-x} fragments to the internal surface of the polyoxoanion. The product was isolated as K₂₂(NH₄)₉H₃[{Pt(OH)₃(H₂O)}₆P₈W₄₈O₁₈₄]·79H₂O (1) and characterized by multiple techniques in the solid state (SCXRD, XRPD, XPS, FTIR, and TGA) and in solution (NMR, ESI-MS, and HPLC-ICP-AES). Electrochemical properties were studied both in solution and as components of the paste electrode. The complex shows electrocatalytic activity in water oxidation.

Direct UV photodegradation of herbicide triclopyr in aqueous solutions: A mechanistic study

Mechanism of direct UV photolysis of pyridine herbicide triclopyr (TRI) was revealed by the combination of nanosecond laser flash photolysis, steady-state photolysis coupled with high resolution LC-MS and DFT quantum-chemical calculations. Both the detection of short-lived intermediates and the detailed identification of final products were done for the first time. The quantum yield of TRI photodegradation is about 4% at both UVC (254 nm) and UVB (308 nm) excitation. The primary stage is the heterolytic cleavage of C-Cl bond in dissociative triplet state of TRI with the formation of phenyl cation followed by a fast nucleophilic attack by a solvent molecule. The minor channel is the photohydrolysis leading to the formation of 3,5,6-trichloropyridin-2-ol. Primary photoproducts undergo secondary photolysis by the mechanism similar to initial TRI with the formation of products of acetic group elimination, sequential substitution of chlorine atoms to hydroxyl groups and, finally, oxidation and opening of the pyridine ring. Obtained results can be important for understanding the fate of pyridine herbicides in the processes of UVC disinfection and in natural waters under action of the sunlight.

Heterometallic Re/Mo and Re/W cubane-type cluster complexes

A series of heterometallic Re/Mo and Re/W cubane-type cluster complexes were obtained. New cluster anions demonstrate a regular change in geometric characteristics and redox potentials depending on the composition of the cluster core.

Self-assembly patterns of non-metalloid silver thiolates: structural, HR-ESI-MS and stability studies

Screening of AgNO₃/AgS^tBu solutions in DMF, DMSO and NMP resulted in the isolation of three novel nanosized silver/thiolate complexes with a torus-like {Ag₂₀(S^tBu)₁₀} core. The structures of [NO₃@Ag₂₀(S^tBu)₁₀(NO₃)₉(DMF)₆] (1) and [NO₃@Ag₂₀(^tBuS)₁₀(NO₃)₈(NMP)₈][NO₃@Ag₁₉(^tBuS)₁₀(NO₃)₈(NMP)₆]₂(NO₃) (2) were studied by single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD). The self-assembly process leading to 1 can be switched to a different outcome using Br^-, resulting in [Br@Ag₁₆(S^tBu)₈(NO₃)₅(DMF)₃](NO₃)₂ (3), which is the one of the few genuine host-guest complexes in the silver/thiolate systems. Solutions of the individual complexes in CH₃CN were studied by HR-ESI-MS techniques, which revealed a dynamic behavior for each complex, driven by a redistribution of the {AgNO₃} units. This dynamics results in the appearance of both cationic and anionic species, based on unchanged silver-thiolate cores. Daylight causes degradation of 3 with the formation of a composite material based on defective orthorhombic Ag₂S with a porous morphology, as observed using the SEM technique. The electrocatalytic HER activity of such a material was studied.

Synthesis, Structure, and Spectroscopic Study of Redox-Active Heterometallic Cluster-Based Complexes [Re5MoSe8(CN)6]n

The heterometallic cluster-based compound K₅[Re₅MoSe₈(CN)₆] was obtained by high-temperature reaction from a mixture of ReSe₂ and MoSe₂ in molten potassium cyanide. The redox behavior of the [Re₅MoSe₈(CN)₆]^5- cluster anion was studied by cyclic voltammetry in aqueous and organic media showing two reversible one-electron-redox transitions with E_1/2 of -0.462 and 0.357 V versus Ag/AgCl in CH₃CN. Aqueous media potentials were found to be noticeably shifted to higher values because of solvation. Chemically accessible potentials allowed us to structurally isolate and characterize the [Re₅MoSe₈(CN)₆]ⁿ (n = 3-, 4-, and 5-) cluster complex in several charge states with corresponding cluster skeletal electron (CSE) numbers ranging from 24 to 22. The electronic absorption of the [Re₅MoSe₈(CN)₆]ⁿ cluster complex varies significantly upon a change of the CSE number, especially in the visible and near-IR regions. The local cluster core distortion upon electron removal was confirmed by density functional theory calculation, while the overall geometry of the cluster anion remained practically unaltered.

Keggin-type polyoxometalate 1 : 1 complexes of Pb(II) and Bi(III): experimental, theoretical and luminescence studies

Bi3+ and Pb2+ uptake by a monolacunary Keggin-type [PW11O39]7- anion leads to the formation of [PW11O39Bi]4- and [PW11O39Pb]5- complexes with a stereochemically active lone pair at the incorporated heterometal. The two complexes were isolated as (TBA)4[PW11O39Bi] (1) and (TBA)5[PW11O39Pb] (2) and characterized by 31P and 183W NMR spectroscopy, high-resolution electrospray mass-spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). EXAFS and XANES data confirm the unchanged oxidation state and ψ-square pyramidal geometry of Bi3+ and Pb2+ in 1 and 2. DFT calculations were used in order to (i) confirm the absence of ligands attached to the heterometal sites in both complexes and localize the lone pair, and (ii) assign all signals in the 183W NMR spectra. Complexes 1 and 2 demonstrate photoluminescence (PL). A reversible change in the PL spectra of both complexes in the presence of water vapor has been detected. On the contrary, PL data for sandwich-type ((CH3)4N)4K3[H4(PW11O39)2Bi]·25H2O (3) do not show sensitivity to water vapor.

Stabilization of Re37+/Re38+ Metalloclusters by Cyanide Ligands in New Trinuclear Rhenium Cluster Complexes [{Re3X3}(CN)9]4-/[{Re3X3}(CN)9]5- (X = Br or I)

The interaction of rhenium(III) halides Re₃Br₉ and Re₃I₉ with aqueous solution of sodium cyanide resulted in the formation of the first trinuclear halide-cyanide rhenium cluster complexes [{Re₃X₃}(CN)₉]^5-/[{Re₃X₃}(CN)₉]^4- (X = Br or I) crystallized as salts of the compositions Cs₄Na[{Re₃Br₃}(CN)₉]·5.25H₂O (1), Cs₄Na[{Re₃I₃}(CN)₉]·6H₂O (2), Cs₄[{Re₃Br₃}(CN)₉]·2H₂O·0.5CsCl (3), and Cs₄[{Re₃I₃}(CN)₉]·(4). All of the compounds are stable in air in the solid state and in aqueous solution. The substitution of apical halide ligands in the parent compounds Re₃X₉ by cyanides led to reduction of the original metallocluster Re₃⁹⁺ (12 cluster valence electrons (CVEs)) to Re₃⁷⁺ (14 CVEs), forming the compounds 1 and 2. The apical CN^- ligands affect the electronic structure of the Re₃ metallocluster stabilizing reduced form. Complexes 1 and 2 represent the first examples of triangular rhenium clusters with the Re₃⁷⁺ metallocluster. The reaction of 1 and 2 with H₂O₂ resulted in formation of compounds 3 and 4 with the formal charge of the Re₃ metallocluster equal to 8+, and no further oxidation to Re₃⁹⁺ occurred. The compounds were characterized by the X-ray diffraction analysis, NMR and UV-vis spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, cyclic voltammetry, and magnetic susceptibility measurements.

Coordination capacity of Keggin anions as polytopic ligands: case study of [VNb12O40]15

Reaction of Na9H4[VNb12O40{NbO(CO3)}2] with [(C6H6)RuCl2]2 (molar ratio {VNb12} : {(C6H6)Ru} = 1 : 4) in aqueous solution gives a mixture of [α-{(C6H6)Ru}4VNb12O40]7- and [α-{(C6H6)Ru}3VNb12O40]9-. Direct acetone diffusion into mother liquor leads to crystallization of Na6H[α-{(C6H6)Ru}4VNb12O40]·41.25H2O (1), characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD). This anion has four organometallic fragments coordinated to the α-Keggin type [VNb12O40]15- backbone in different manner. Three {(C6H6)Ru}2+ groups cap triangular faces and one group a rectangular face of [VNb12O40]15-. Equilibrated mixture of [α-{(C6H6)Ru}4VNb12O40]7- and [α-{(C6H6)Ru}3VNb12O40]9- was studied by 1H DOSY NMR, HPLC-ICP-AES and HPLC-ESI-MS combined techniques. Direct chromatographic separation of these complexes results in unexpected transformation of both species into [α-{(C6H6)Ru}5VNb12O40]5-, isolated and characterized as Na5[α-{(C6H6)Ru}5VNb12O40]·16H2O (2). This anion contains five coordinated organometallic groups occupying both triangular and rectangular faces.

Water-Soluble Rhenium Clusters with Triazoles: The Effect of Chemical Structure on Cellular Internalization and the DNA Binding of the Complexes

Here we explore the effect of the nature of organic ligands in rhenium cluster complexes [Re₆ Q₈ L₆ ]^4- (where Q=S or Se, and L=benzotriazole, 1,2,3-triazole or 1,2,4-triazole) on the biological properties of the complexes, in particular on the cellular toxicity, cellular internalization and localization. Specifically, the study describes the synthesis and detailed characterization of the structure, luminescence and electrochemical properties of the four new Re₆ clusters with 1,2,3- and 1,2,4-triazoles. Biological assays of these complexes are also discussed in addition to those with benzotriazole using cervical cancer (HeLa) and immortalized human fibroblasts (CRL-4025) as model cell lines. Our study demonstrates that the presence of hydrophobic and π-bonding rich units such as the benzene ring in benzotriazole significantly enhances cellular internalization of rhenium clusters. These ligands facilitate binding of the clusters to DNA, which results in increased cytotoxicity of the complexes.

Most abundant metabolites in tissues of freshwater fish pike-perch (Sander lucioperca)

Quantitative metabolomic analysis was performed for eleven tissues of freshwater fish pike-perch (Sander lucioperca), including gill, heart, liver, kidney, spleen, muscle, brain, milt, lens, aqueous (AH) and vitreous (VH) humors with the use of NMR spectroscopy. The absolute values of concentrations were determined for more than 65 most abundant metabolites in every tissue. It was found that from the metabolomic viewpoint, kidney and gill are the most similar tissues, while the metabolomic compositions of ocular tissues—lens, AH, and VH significantly differ from that of other tissues. The combinations of intracellular osmolytes and antioxidants are specific for every tissue. In particular, the concentration of antioxidant ovothiol A in the lens is much higher than in any other tissue, while the brain enjoys the elevated level of ascorbate. The most abundant osmolyte in the fish spleen, muscle, and heart is taurine, and in the brain, gill, and lens—myo-inositol. Other important osmolytes specific for particular tissues are N-acetyl-histidine, N-acetyl-aspartate, betaine, threonine-phosphoethanolamine, and serine-phosphoethanolamine. The quantitative data obtained in the present work can be used as the baseline metabolite concentrations in the fish tissues to evaluate the influence of seasonal, ecological and other factors on the fish metabolism.

The {Re4} Tetrahedral Cyanometalate Cluster Anion [{Re4(μ3-CCN)4}(CN)12]8- with Inner (μ3-CCN)3- Ligands and Its Features in Coordination of Cu2+ Cations

A reaction between ReI₃ and KCN at elevated temperature led to the formation of the new cyanometalate cluster anion [{Re₄(μ₃-CCN)₄}(CN)₁₂]^8- (1). The anion contains μ₃-CCN^3- ligands, which are stabilized by the coordination to the triangular faces of the tetrahedral {Re₄} metallocluster in a μ₃ mode. The compound crystallized as a potassium salt, and its crystal structure was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. It was shown that μ₃-CCN^3- ligands are ambidentate and can interact with transition-metal cations similarly to terminal CN groups, resulting in the polymer framework formation.

Mechanism of photochromic transformations and photodegradation of an asymmetrical 2,3-diarylcyclopentenone

A mechanistic study of the photochromic properties and photodegradation processes of an asymmetrical diarylcyclopentenone bearing thiophene and benzothiophene units using stationary photolysis, nanosecond laser flash photolysis and time-resolved luminescence was performed. It was found that the light-induced reversible isomerization of (3-(2,5-dimethyltiophen-3-il)-2-(2-methyl-1-benzylthiophen-3-il)cyclopent-2-en-1-one, compound 1) from open to closed form is a common photochromic transformation inherent to diarylethenes, while the photodegradation process proceeds in two ways. The first is a formal 1,2-dyotropic rearrangement, proceeding without the participation of oxygen. The second is the oxygen-dependent mechanism involving the excitation of the open form 1A into the triplet state, quenching of the latter by dissolved oxygen, and oxidation of the initial compound by singlet oxygen.

Seasonal Variations and Interspecific Differences in Metabolomes of Freshwater Fish Tissues: Quantitative Metabolomic Profiles of Lenses and Gills

This work represents the first comprehensive report on quantitative metabolomic composition of tissues of pike-perch (Sander lucioperca) and Siberian roach (Rutilus rutilus lacustris). The total of 68 most abundant metabolites are identified and quantified in the fish lenses and gills by the combination of LC-MS and NMR. It is shown that the concentrations of some compounds in the lens are much higher than that in the gills; that indicates the importance of these metabolites for the adaptation to the specific living conditions and maintaining the homeostasis of the fish lens. The lens metabolome undergoes significant seasonal changes due to the variations of dissolved oxygen level and fish feeding activity. The most season-affected metabolites are osmolytes and antioxidants, and the most affected metabolic pathway is the histidine pathway. In late autumn, the major lens osmolytes are N-acetyl-histidine and threonine phosphoethanolamine (Thr-PETA), while in winter the highest concentrations were observed for serine phosphoethanolamine (Ser-PETA) and myo-inositol. The presence of Thr-PETA and Ser-PETA in fish tissues and their role in cell osmotic protection are reported for the first time. The obtained concentrations can be used as baseline levels for studying the influence of environmental factors on fish health.

Ovothiol A is the Main Antioxidant in Fish Lens

Tissue protection from oxidative stress by antioxidants is of vital importance for cellular metabolism. The lens mostly consists of fiber cells lacking nuclei and organelles, having minimal metabolic activity; therefore, the defense of the lens tissue from the oxidative stress strongly relies on metabolites. Protein-free extracts from lenses and gills of freshwater fish, Sander lucioperca and Rutilus rutilus lacustris, were subjected to analysis using high-field 1H NMR spectroscopy and HPLC with optical and high-resolution mass spectrometric detection. It was found that the eye lenses of freshwater fish contain high concentrations of ovothiol A (OSH), i.e., one of the most powerful antioxidants exciting in nature. OSH was identified and quantified in millimolar concentrations. The concentration of OSH in the lens and gills depends on the fish genus and on the season. A possible mechanism of the reactive oxygen species deactivation in fish lenses is discussed. This work is the first to report on the presence of OSH in vertebrates. The presence of ovothiol in the fish tissue implies that it may be a significantly more common antioxidant in freshwater and marine animals than was previously thought.

Quantitative metabolomic analysis of changes in the lens and aqueous humor under development of age-related nuclear cataract

INTRODUCTION

Metabolites are essential for the proper functioning of the eye lens, they either enter the lens from the aqueous humor (AH), or are synthesized in the lens epithelium. Antioxidants, osmolytes and UV filters are especially important for the lens protection, and their lack may cause the development of ophthalmic diseases.

OBJECTIVES

Comparison of the metabolomic compositions of lenses and AH taken from cataract patients with that taken from human cadavers without cataract can shed light onto molecular mechanisms underlying onset of age-related nuclear cataract.

METHODS

Combined use of ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance and high performance liquid chromatography with optical and high-resolution mass spectrometric detection for the identification and quantification of metabolites in the lens and AH extracts.

RESULTS

The concentrations of 86 metabolites were determined for four groups of samples, including lenses and AH from cataract patients and from human cadavers. In cataractous lens the most abundant metabolites are (in descending order): myo-inositol, lactate, acetate, glutamate, glutathione; in AH-lactate, glucose, glutamine, alanine, valine. The concentrations of the majority of metabolites in normal post-mortem samples of both lens and AH are higher than that in samples from the cataract patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparison of metabolite concentrations in lens and corresponding AH reveal that the most important for the lens protection metabolites are synthesized in the lens epithelial cells. The reduced levels of antioxidants, UV filters, and osmolytes were found in the cataractous lenses what cannot be explained by post-mortem changes in normal lens; that indicates that the age-related nuclear cataract development may originate from the dysfunction of the lens epithelial cells.

Photoinduced inhibition of DNA repair enzymes and the possible mechanism of photochemical transformations of the ruthenium nitrosyl complex [RuNO(β-Pic)2(NO2)2OH]

Inhibition of DNA repair enzymes by the ruthenium nitrosyl complex occurs only after light irradiation and is determined by the interactions between the enzyme and active photolysis products.

Water-soluble Re6-clusters with aromatic phosphine ligands – from synthesis to potential biomedical applications

New hexarhenium clusters exhibit radio- and photoluminescence, have low cytotoxicity, are capable of penetrating into cells and exhibit photodynamic toxicity.

A novel method of sample homogenization with the use of a microtome-cryostat apparatus

Quantitative metabolomics places high demands on sample preparation, including a high degree of metabolite extraction and controlled sample weight. In respect to elastic collagen-rich tissues, the existing methods of sample homogenization poorly fit these demands due to incomplete homogenization, sample material loss, or metabolite degradation. Herein, a novel method based on the use of a microtome-cryostat apparatus is proposed. The performance of the cryotome method is compared with the results obtained with the use of a vortex bead beating. NMR-based metabolomic analysis shows that the extraction efficiency and the data scattering for both methods of sample preparation are similar. However, the heat generation during the bead beating causes the destruction of thermally-unstable compounds; besides, it may cause protein hydrolysis, leading to an artificial increase in the amino acid level. The cryotome method of sample homogenization does not cause sample heating, and it seems to be ideal for elastic tissues.

A novel method of homogenization of elastic tissues does not cause sample heating and material losses.

From oxide to a new type of molecular tungsten compound: formation of bitetrahedral cluster complexes [{W6(μ4-O)2(μ3-CCN)4}(CN)16]10- and [{W6(μ4-O)2(μ3-As)4}(CN)16]10

Tungsten trioxide has been found to be a convenient precursor for the synthesis of metal cluster compounds with new types of cluster cores. The reaction between WO3 and KCN led to the formation of the cluster complex [{W6(μ4-O)2(μ3-CCN)4}(CN)16]10-. Unexpectedly, it includes the fully deprotonated form of acetonitrile, the CCN3- anion, as a μ3-bridging ligand coordinated to the trigonal faces of the bitetrahedral W6 metallocluster. A similar complex [{W6(μ4-O)2(μ3-As)4}(CN)16]10- containing μ3-As3- ligands instead of μ3-CCN3- ones has been synthesized by the reaction between WO3, As and KCN.

Mixed-metal clusters with a {Re3Mo3Se8} core: from a polymeric solid to soluble species with multiple redox transitions

Soluble compounds based on new heterometallic {Re₃Mo₃Se₈}ⁿcluster cores were synthesized and investigated.

Effect of SkQ1 eye drops on the rat lens metabolomic composition and the chaperone activity of α-crystallin

The ability of SkQ1 eye drops to slow down the cataract development is demonstrated on the senescence-accelerated OXYS rats: the SkQ1 treatment leads to the considerable improvement of the lens condition as compared to the control group. The comparison of the chaperone activities of α-crystallins isolated from the rat lenses did not reveal significant difference between SkQ1-treated and control rats. The contents of major metabolites (23 compounds) in lenses of SkQ1-treated and untreated rats are also very similar, though the concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) in lenses of SkQ1-treated rats is 12% lower. This difference may be attributed to the reduction of the oxidative stress under action of SkQ1 eye drops, and to the decreased requirement to produce high amounts of this antioxidant.

Metabolomic composition of normal aged and cataractous human lenses

Quantitative metabolomic profiles of normal and cataractous human lenses were obtained with the combined use of high-frequency nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-performance liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass-spectrometric detection (LC-MS) methods. The concentration of more than fifty metabolites in the lens cortex and nucleus has been determined. For the majority of metabolites, their concentrations in the lens cortex and nucleus are similar, which confirms low metabolic activity in the lens core. The difference between the metabolite levels in the cortex and nucleus of the normal lens is observed for antioxidants and UV filters, which demonstrates the activity of redox processes in the lens. A huge difference is found between the metabolomic compositions of normal and age-matched cataractous lenses: the concentrations of almost all metabolites in the normal lens are higher than in the cataractous one. The most pronounced difference is observed for compounds playing a key role in the lens cell protection and metabolic activity, including antioxidants, UV filters, and osmolytes. The results obtained imply that the development of the age-related cataracts might originate from the metabolic dysfunction of the lens epithelial cells.

Metabolomics of the rat lens: a combined LC-MS and NMR study

This work is the first comprehensive report on the quantitative metabolomic composition of the rat lens. Quantitative metabolomic profiles of lenses were acquired with the combined use of high-frequency nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-performance liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass-spectrometric detection (LC-MS) methods. More than forty low molecular weight compounds found in the lens have been reliably identified and quantified. The most abundant metabolites in the 3-month-old Wistar rat lens are taurine, hypotaurine, lactate, phosphocholine and reduced glutathione. The analysis of age-related changes in the lens metabolomic composition shows a gradual decrease of the content of most metabolites. This decrease is the most pronounced between 1 and 3 months, which probably corresponds to the completion of the lens maturation in one-month-old rats and to the high rate of the young lens growth. The enhanced levels of tryptophan, tyrosine, carnitine, glycerophosphate, GSH and GSSG were found in lenses of senescence-accelerated OXYS rats; for some metabolites, this effect may probably be attributed to the compensatory response to oxidative stress.

Cataract-specific posttranslational modifications and changes in the composition of urea-soluble protein fraction from the rat lens

PURPOSE

To determine age-related changes in the composition of the urea-soluble (US) protein fraction from lenses of senescence-accelerated OXYS (cataract model) and Wistar (control) rats and to establish posttranslational modifications (PTMs) occurring under enhanced oxidative stress in OXYS lenses.

METHODS

The identity and the relative abundance of crystallins in the US fractions were determined using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MS). The identities and the positions of PTMs were established using MS/MS measurements.

RESULTS

Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis maps of US protein fractions were obtained for lenses of 3-, 12-, and 62-week-old Wistar and OXYS rats, and the relative abundance of different isoforms of α-, β-, and γ-crystallins was determined. β-Crystallins were the major contributor of the US fraction in 3-week-old lenses (above 50%), γ-crystallins in 12-week-old lenses (50-60%), and in 62-week-old lenses, the contributions from all three crystallin families leveled out. The major interstrain difference was the elevated level of α-crystallins in the US fraction from 12-week-old OXYS lenses. Spots with increased relative abundance in OXYS maps were attributed to the cataract-specific spots of interest. The crystallins from these spots were subjected to MS/MS analysis, and the positions of acetylation, oxidation, deamidation, and phosphorylation were established.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased relative abundance of α-crystallins in the US fraction from 12-week-old OXYS lenses points to the fast insolubilization of α-crystallins under oxidative stress. Most of the PTMs attributed to the cataract-specific modifications also correspond to α-crystallins. These PTMs include oxidation of methionine residues, deamidation of asparagine and glutamine residues, and phosphorylation of serine and threonine residues.