Dietary tannic acid attenuates elastase-induced pulmonary inflammation and emphysema in mice

Emphysema is one of the major components of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is characterised by the destruction and enlargement of air spaces, leading to airflow limitation and dyspnoea, finally progressing to oxygen dependency. The alveolar wall destruction is due to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and proteinase/anti-proteinase imbalance. So far, there has been no effective therapy for patients with COPD. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of tannic acid (TA), a naturally occurring plant-derived polyphenol in the murine emphysema model. In C57BL/6 J mice, we established emphysema by intratracheal instillation of elastase (EL). Then, mice were treated with TA and evaluated 1 and 21 days post-EL instillation. After 24 h, TA treatment significantly reduced EL-induced histopathological alterations, infiltrating leukocytes, and gene expression of markers of inflammation and apoptosis. Similarly, after 21 days, TA treatment suppressed the mean linear intercept, gene expression of proteinases, and increased elastic fiber contents in the lungs when compared to the EL-alone group. Furthermore, EL induced the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB) p65 pathways in the lungs was suppressed by TA treatment. In summary, TA has the potential to mitigate EL-induced inflammation, apoptosis, proteinase/anti-proteinase imbalance, and subsequent emphysema in mice.

In Silico Screening of Some Active Phytochemicals to Identify Promising Inhibitors Against SARS-CoV-2 Targets

BACKGROUND

There are very few small-molecule drug candidates developed against SARS-CoV-2 that have been revealed since the epidemic began in November 2019. The typical medicinal chemistry discovery approach requires more than a decade of the year of painstaking research and development and a significant financial guarantee, which is not feasible in the challenge of the current epidemic.

OBJECTIVE

This current study proposes to find and identify the most effective and promising phytomolecules against SARS-CoV-2 in six essential proteins (3CL protease, Main protease, Papain- Like protease, N-protein RNA binding domain, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, and Spike receptor binding domain target through in silico screening of 63 phytomolecules from six different Ayurveda medicinal plants.

METHODS

The phytomolecules and SARS-CoV-2 proteins were taken from public domain databases such as PubChem and RCSB Protein Data Bank. For in silico screening, the molecular interactions, binding energy, and ADMET properties were investigated.

RESULTS

The structure-based molecular docking reveals some molecules' greater affinity towards the target than the co-crystal ligand. Our results show that tannic acid, cyanidin-3-rutinoside, zeaxanthin, and carbolactone are phytomolecules capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 target proteins in the least energy conformations. Tannic acid had the least binding energy of -8.8 kcal/mol, which is better than the binding energy of its corresponding co-crystal ligand (-7.5 kcal/mol) against 3 CL protease. Also, it has shown the least binding energy of -9.9 kcal/mol with a more significant number of conventional hydrogen bond interactions against the RdRp target. Cyanidin-3-rutinoside showed binding energy values of -8.8 and -7.6 kcal/mol against Main protease and Papain-like protease, respectively. Zeaxanthin was the top candidate in the N protein RBD with a binding score of - 8.4 kcal/mol, which is slightly better when compared to a co-crystal ligand (-8.2 kcal/mol). In the spike, carbolactone was the suitable candidate with the binding energy of -7.2 kcal/mol and formed a conventional hydrogen bond and two hydrophobic interactions. The best binding affinity-scored phytomolecules were selected for the MD simulations studies.

CONCLUSION

The present in silico screening study suggested that active phytomolecules from medicinal plants could inhibit SARS-CoV-2 targets. The elite docked compounds with drug-like properties have a harmless ADMET profile, which may help to develop promising COVID-19 inhibitors.

N-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-phenazinamine from Nocardiopsis exhalans induces p53-mediated intrinsic apoptosis signaling in lung cancer cell lines

The present study aims to investigate the effect and the molecular mechanism of N-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-phenazinamine (NHP) isolated from Nocardiopsis exhalans against the proliferation of human lung cancer cells. The cytotoxic activity of NHP against A549 and H520 cells was determined using MTT assay. The cytotoxic activity of NHP against A549 and H520 lung cancer cells showed excellent activity at 75 μg/mL and damage the mitochondrial membrane and nucleus by generating oxidative stress. NHP causes nuclear condensation and induces apoptosis which was confirmed using AO/EB and PI/DAPI dual staining assay. Moreover, the NHP downregulates the oncogenic genes such as IL-8, TNFα, MMPs and BcL2 and also upregulates the expression of apoptosis marker genes such as Cyto C, p53, p21, caspase 9/3 in A549 and H520 human lung cancer cells. Considering the strong anticancer activity of NHP against lung cancer, NHP may be further evaluated as a potential anticancer drug for the treatment of lung cancer.

The Spectrum of Pulmonary Histomorphology Changes in COVID-19 Cases

Introduction/Objective

Pulmonary specimens following COVID-19 virus infection demonstrate a spectrum of pulmonary histomorphology. Six patients with a history of COVID-19 infection are summarized in this review. The purpose of our study is to elucidate any possible correlations between clinical, laboratory, radiographic, and pathologic findings in COVID-19 patients. Further, we aim to characterize both non-specific and specific histomorphology and cytomorphology in COVID-19 patients.

Methods/Case Report

Six patients with known COVID-19 infection and lung biopsies/resections are identified. A chart review is performed to collect clinical histories, the results of COVID-19 PCR testing, radiographic impressions, pathologic interpretations of histology, and clinical outcomes. Information is summarized and tabulated.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

The most common, non-specific histological findings are focal/diffuse acute lung injury, organizing lung injury, or a combination of both patterns. Unique features of COVID-19 infection are identified in three cases, which illustrate viral cytopathic changes within hyperplastic pneumocytes. These include basophilic, vacuolated, granular cytoplasm and variably sized cytoplasmic/nuclear inclusions. Virus-loaded pneumocytes are typically identified in the organizing phase, and rarely in the acute lung injury phase. Immunohistochemical staining of anti-nuclear capsule antibody with appropriate controls shows focal positive staining in one case. SARS-CoV-2 PCR is positive in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue, while a serum PCR assay is negative.

Conclusion

The severity of clinical symptoms and clinical outcome are unrelated to the degree of lung involvement. Viral cytopathic changes are identified in three cases, with these specific findings associated with the organizing phase of lung injury, and either concurrent PCR positivity or positive immunohistochemical staining.

Quantifying T2-FLAIR Mismatch Using Geographically Weighted Regression and Predicting Molecular Status in Lower-Grade Gliomas

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The T2-FLAIR mismatch sign is a validated imaging sign of isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant 1p/19q noncodeleted gliomas. It is identified by radiologists through visual inspection of preoperative MR imaging scans and has been shown to identify isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant 1p/19q noncodeleted gliomas with a high positive predictive value. We have developed an approach to quantify the T2-FLAIR mismatch signature and use it to predict the molecular status of lower-grade gliomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used multiparametric MR imaging scans and segmentation labels of 108 preoperative lower-grade glioma tumors from The Cancer Imaging Archive. Clinical information and T2-FLAIR mismatch sign labels were obtained from supplementary material of relevant publications. We adopted an objective analytic approach to estimate this sign through a geographically weighted regression and used the residuals for each case to construct a probability density function (serving as a residual signature). These functions were then analyzed using an appropriate statistical framework.

RESULTS

We observed statistically significant (P value = .05) differences between the averages of residual signatures for an isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant 1p/19q noncodeleted class of tumors versus other categories. Our classifier predicts these cases with area under the curve of 0.98 and high specificity and sensitivity. It also predicts the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign within these cases with an under the curve of 0.93.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of this retrospective study, we show that geographically weighted regression-based residual signatures are highly informative of the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign and can identify isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutation and 1p/19q codeletion status with high predictive power. The utility of the proposed quantification of the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign can be potentially validated through a prospective multi-institutional study.

An overview on the role of plant-derived tannins for the treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death globally. Despite many advanced approaches to treat cancer, they are often ineffective due to resistance to classical anti-cancer drugs and distant metastases. Currently, alternative medicinal agents derived from plants are the major interest due to high bioavailability and fewer adverse effects. Tannins are polyphenolic compounds existing as specialized products in a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Many tannins have been found to possess protective properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and so on. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge addressing the anti-cancer effects of dietary tannins and their underlying molecular mechanisms. In vivo and in vitro studies provide evidences that anti-cancer effects of various tannins are predominantly mediated through negative regulation of transcription factors, growth factors, receptor kinases, and many oncogenic molecules. In addition, we also discussed the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties of tannins, clinical trial results as well as our perspective on future research with tannins.

Repurposing of histone deacetylase inhibitors: A promising strategy to combat pulmonary fibrosis promoted by TGF-β signalling in COVID-19 survivors

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread around the world causing global public health emergency. In the last twenty years, we have witnessed several viral epidemics such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Influenza A virus subtype H1N1 and most recently Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). There were tremendous efforts endeavoured globally by scientists to combat these viral diseases and now for SARS-CoV-2. Several drugs such as chloroquine, arbidol, remdesivir, favipiravir and dexamethasone are adopted for use against COVID-19 and currently clinical studies are underway to test their safety and efficacy for treating COVID-19 patients. As per World Health Organization reports, so far more than 16 million people are affected by COVID-19 with a recovery of close to 10 million and deaths at 600,000 globally.

SARS-CoV-2 infection is reported to cause extensive pulmonary damages in affected people. Given the large number of recoveries, it is important to follow-up the recovered patients for apparent lung function abnormalities. In this review, we discuss our understanding about the development of long-term pulmonary abnormalities such as lung fibrosis observed in patients recovered from coronavirus infections (SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV) and probable epigenetic therapeutic strategy to prevent the development of similar pulmonary abnormalities in SARS-CoV-2 recovered patients. In this regard, we address the use of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors therapy to manage pulmonary fibrosis and their underlying molecular mechanisms in managing the pathologic processes in COVID-19 recovered patients.

Incorporated plant extract fabricated silver/poly-D,l-lactide-co-glycolide nanocomposites for antimicrobial based wound healing

Polymeric nanocomposites have gained extensive attention in modern nanotechnology by reason of its design, flexibility, sole applications and lower life cycle costs. Preparation of composites using spreading of inorganic metal nanoparticles in organic polymeric matrices has plenty of scope and applications in the biomedical field. Poly-D,l-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) is an appreciated polymer for composites preparation because of its non-toxic and promising biodistribution. The consideration of metal nanoparticles has extended rapidly with the presence of new nanocomposites into a range of products and technologies. Compared to bulk materials the synthesized metal nanoparticles have unique character and biomedical uses due to its shape, size, and huge surface to volume ratio. Among different inorganic metal nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) have dominated in the biomedical field owing to its diverse potential applications including imaging, sensor, diagnosis and disease treatment. Further, medicinal plant extract mediated Ag NPs shown superior advantages and its antimicrobial based wound healing prospective has been established. However, not much information on plant extract mediated Ag NPs integrated PLGA nanocomposites wound healing applications. In the present review, we discussed necessity, preparation, characterization and antimicrobial based wound healing mechanism of incorporated plant extract mediated silver/PLGA nanocomposites.

Diagnostic Potential of Extracellular MicroRNA in Respiratory Diseases

Lack of markers of subclinical disease state and clinical phenotype other than pulmonary function test has made the diagnosis and interventions of environmental respiratory diseases a major challenge. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding single stranded RNAs, have emerged as potential disease-modifier in various environmental respiratory diseases. They can also be found in various body fluids and are remarkably stable. Because of their high stability, disease-specific expression, and the ease to detect and quantify them have raised the potential of miRNAs in body fluids to be useful clinical diagnostic biomarkers for lung disease phenotyping. In the present review, we provide a comprehensive overview of progress made in identifying miRNAs in various body fluids including blood, serum, plasma, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, and sputum as biomarkers for a wide range of human respiratory diseases such as acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma. Finally, we discuss several challenges remain to be concerned and suggest few disease-specific and non-specific miRNAs to become part of future clinical practice.

Antibacterial and anticancer potential of marine endophytic actinomycetes Streptomyces coeruleorubidus GRG 4 (KY457708) compound against colistin resistant uropathogens and A549 lung cancer cells

The aim of the current study is to identify bioactive compound from marine endophytic actinomycetes (MEA) isolated from Gulf of Mannar region, Southeast coast of India. Among the isolated actinomycetes, strain GRG 4 exhibited excellent ability to inhibit isolated colistin resistant (CR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), which is a emerging threat to the world. The strain was identified as Streptomyces coeruleorubidus GRG 4 (KY457708), based on morphological, biochemical, phenotypic and genotypic characters. The bioactive metabolites present in the methanolic extract were partially purified by TLC and preparative HPLC. The active HPLC fraction 2 showed 15, 20 mm zone of inhibition against both CR P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae respectively. Analytical HPLC and FT-IR results of fraction 2 showed with carbonyl group. Both GC-MS and LC-MS results confirmed that the fraction 2 contained chemical constituents of Bis (2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (BEP). The compromised structure with loosely integrated and ruptured cell wall of BEP treated CR bacteria were observed by confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) at 75 μg/mL of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) dose. Further, cytotoxic effect of BEP against A549 human lung cancer cells revealed complete inhibition by cell proliferation and apoptosis was observed at 100 μg/mL in 24 h treatment. In addition, irreversible ROS dependent oxidative damage was clearly observed at the IC₅₀ concentration of BEP. The toxicity of BEP was also studied against Vibrio fischeri (V. fischeri) and found to be highly toxic after 15 and 30 min of treatment. Based on the results it could be concluded that the identified compound BEP is a potent inhibitor for CR bacteria and A549 lung cancer cells.

Target delivery of doxorubicin tethered with PVP stabilized gold nanoparticles for effective treatment of lung cancer

Development of drug delivery system conjugated with doxorubicin (dox) on the surface of AuNPs with polyvinylpyrrolidone (Dox@PVP-AuNPs), we have demonstrated that human lung cancer cells can significantly overcome by the combination of highly effective cellular entry and responsive intracellular release of doxorubicin from Dox@PVP-AuNPs complex. Previously drug release from doxorubicin-conjugated AuNPs was confirmed by the recovered fluorescence of doxorubicin from quenching due to the nanosurface energy transfer between doxorubicinyl groups and AuNPs. Dox@PVP-AuNPs achieved enhanced inhibition of lung cancer cells growth than free Doxorubicin and PVP-AuNPs. The in vitro cytotoxic effect of PVP-AuNPs, free Dox and Dox@PVP-AuNPs inhibited the proliferation of human lung cancer cells with IC50 concentration. Compared with control cells, PVP-AuNPs and free Dox, Dox@PVP-AuNPs can increases ROS generation, sensitize mitochondrial membrane potential and induces both early and late apoptosis in lung cancer cells. Moreover, Dox@PVP-AuNPs highly upregulates the expression of tumor suppressor genes than free Dox and PVP-AuNPs and induces intrinsic apoptosis in lung cancer cells. From the results, Dox@PVP-AuNPs can be considered as an potential drug delivery system for effective treatment of human lung cancer.

Correlative Studies Unravelling the Possible Mechanism of Cell Death in Tideglusib-Treated Human Ovarian Teratocarcinoma-Derived PA-1 Cells

This study aims to unravel the use of GSK-3 inhibitors as viable apoptotic inducers for teratocarcinoma-derived ovarian PA-1 cells. MTT assay was carried out to assess inhibitory concentrations of LiCl and TDG. AO/EB staining and Hoechst 33258 staining were employed to assess the damage. Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and ROS generation were assessed with IC50 concentrations of LiCl and TDG. Tumor-related genes (p53, p21, IL-8, TNF-α, MMP-2, Fas-L, Cox-2, and caspase-3) were assessed with 1/4 IC50, 1/2 IC50, IC50 concentrations by semi-quantitative RT- PCR. Cell cycle analysis was performed with IC50 concentration of LiCl and TDG. Western blot analysis was performed for caspase-3, caspase-7, caspase-9, PARP to estimate the possible damage induced by GSK-3 inhibitors and regulation of GSK-3β, pGSK-3β, Cox-2. GSK-3 inhibitors demonstrated a concentration and time-dependent reduction in cell viability, exhibiting significant ROS generation and reduced ΔΨm at their IC50 values. Substantial concentration-dependent gene expression changes with significant upregulation of P21, Cox-2, TNF-α, caspase-3, Fas-L were observed. Protein expression of caspase-3 caspase-7, caspase-9, PARP exhibited significant cleavage in LiCl and TDG-treated cells. Protein expression of Cox-2 was significantly increased in IC50 concentration of TDG. Cell cycle analysis showed significant accumulation of cells at sub-G0-G1.

Inhibitory Effects of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Depsipeptide on Benzo(a)pyrene- and Cyclophosphamide-Induced Genotoxicity in Swiss Albino Mice

Depsipeptide (FK228 or FR901228) was evaluated in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test for its possible protective effect against chromosomal damage induced by benzo(a)pyrene and cyclophosphamide. Three doses of depsipeptide (0.5, 1, and 1.5 mg/kg body weight) were given intravenously to mice for 7 consecutive days prior to administration of genotoxins under investigation. All the three doses of depsipeptide were effective in exerting a protective effect against both benzo(a)pyrene and cyclophosamide. A significant suppression (34.9% to 67.5%) in the micronuclei formation induced by benzo(a)pyrene and (25.7% to 71.5%) cyclophosphamide was observed following intravenous administration of depsipeptide at doses of 0.5, 1, and 1.5mg/kg in Swiss albino mice.

Anticancer activity of graphene oxide-reduced graphene oxide-silver nanoparticle composites

In the present study, a chemical route was employed to synthesize graphene oxide (GO)-reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-Ag nanoparticle (AgNP) composites from graphite and AgNO₃ using vitamin C as reducing agent. Powder X-ray diffraction pattern and field emission scanning electron microscope images revealed that the AgNP were uniformly distributed on the surface of GO and rGO nanosheets. For the first time, the cytotoxicity of GO, rGO, AgNP, GO-AgNP and rGO-AgNP composites were examined against human lung cancer A549 cells using MTT assay and reported quantitatively. The rGO-AgNP showed significant cytotoxicity activity with an IC₅₀ value of 30μg/mL towards A549 cells which is higher than that of GO (180μg/mL), rGO (160μg/mL) and GO-AgNP (100μg/mL). Compared to AgNP (6μg/mL), rGO-AgNP shows partial agglomeration of AgNP on rGO sheets, which reduces the interaction between rGO-AgNP and A549 cells leading to lesser anticancer activity than AgNP. The interaction between rGO and AgNP leads to increase in the material biocompatibility, reducing the toxicity and corrosive characteristic.

Hemangioendothelioma of palate: A case report with review of literature

Hemangioendothelioma commonly occurs in the superficial or deep soft tissue of the extremities, lungs, liver, bone and lymph nodes, with oral cavity being a rare location. It is usually benign but can show variable grades of malignancy. According to the histological presentation, hemangioendothelioma has been classified as epithelioid, Kaposiform, hobnail (Dabska-Retiform), epithelioid sarcoma like and composite. We present a case of ulcerated swelling of palate clinically diagnosed as pyogenic granuloma which presented a diagnostically challenging histological picture. We discuss the differential diagnoses obtained from various oral pathologists and general pathologists and substantiate the diagnosis of hemangioendothelioma based on its clinical behavior, histological features and immunohistochemical findings. In addition, we attempt to highlight the diagnostic dilemma that such cases can pose to the attending pathologists.

Preparation of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Vorinostat-Loaded Poly D, L-Lactide-co-Glycolide Polymeric Nanoparticles by Nanoprecipitation Method

Nanotechnology is a comparatively new branch of science that includes harnessing the unique properties of particles that are nanometers in scale. Nanoparticles can be tailored in a precise fashion where their size, composition, and surface chemistry can be carefully controlled. The nanoprecipitation is a simple, powerful, and low-energy requiring technique, commonly used for the preparation of defined nanoparticles. Histone deacetylase inhibitor Vorinostat-loaded Poly D, L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) polymeric nanoparticles were prepared by the nanoprecipitation technique. The technique commonly relies on the precipitation of a solvent-dissolved material as nanosize particles after the addition to a non-solvent-containing stabilizer. The particle size and size distribution of the Vorinostat polymeric nanoparticles are significantly influenced by the surfactants used in the fabrication process of the formulation. The surfactants prevent aggregate formation and improve the stability of the nanoparticles. The partitioning and evaporation of organic solvents allowed the formation of Vorinostat-loaded polymeric nanoparticles.

Plant Isoquinoline Alkaloid Berberine Exhibits Chromatin Remodeling by Modulation of Histone Deacetylase To Induce Growth Arrest and Apoptosis in the A549 Cell Line

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are a group of epigenetic enzymes that control gene expression through their repressive influence on histone deacetylation transcription. HDACs are probable therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, spurring the progress of different types of HDAC inhibitors. Further, natural-source-based derived bioactive compounds possess HDAC inhibitor property. In this way, we hypothesized that plant isoquinoline alkaloid berberine (BBR) could be a HDAC inhibitor in the human lung cancer A549 cell line. BBR represses total HDAC and also class I, II, and IV HDAC activity through hyperacetylation of histones. Furthermore, BBR triggers positive regulation of the sub-G₀/G₁ cell cycle progression phase in A549 cells. Moreover, BBR-induced A549 cell growth arrest and morphological changes were confirmed using different fluorescence-dye-based microscope techniques. Additionally, BBR downregulates oncogenes (TNF-α, COX-2, MMP-2, and MMP-9) and upregulates tumor suppressor genes (p21 and p53) mRNA and protein expressions. Besides, BBR actively regulates Bcl-2/Bax family proteins and also triggered the caspase cascade apoptotic pathway in A549 cells. Our finding suggests that BBR mediates epigenetic reprogramming by HDAC inhibition, which may be the key mechanism for its antineoplastic activity.

Tideglusib induces apoptosis in human neuroblastoma IMR32 cells, provoking sub-G0/G1 accumulation and ROS generation

Neuroblastoma is the most common tumor amongst children amounting to nearly 15% of cancer deaths. This cancer is peculiar in its characteristics, exhibiting differentiation, maturation and metastatic transformation leading to poor prognosis and low survival rates among children. Chemotherapy, though toxic to normal cells, has shown to improve the survival of the patient with emphasis given more towards targeting angiogenesis. Recently, Tideglusib was designed as an 'Orphan Drug' to target the neurodegenerative Alzheimer's disease and gained significant momentum in its function during clinical trials. Duffy et al. recently reported a reduction in cell viability of human IMR32 neuroblastoma cells when treated with Tideglusib at varying concentrations. We investigated the effects of Tideglusib, at various concentrations, compared to Lithium chloride at various concentrations, on IMR32 cells. Lithium, a known GSK-3 inhibitor, was used as a standard to compare the efficiency of Tideglusib in a dose-dependent manner. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. The stages of apoptosis were evaluated by AO/EB staining and nuclear damage was determined by Hoechst 33258 staining. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were assessed by DCFDA dye and Rhodamine-123 dye, respectively. Tideglusib reported a significant dose-dependent increase in pro-apoptotic proteins (PARP, Caspase-9, Caspase-7, Caspase-3) and tumor-related genes (FasL, TNF-α, Cox-2, IL-8, Caspase-3). Anti-GSK3 β, pGSK3 β, Bcl-2, Akt-1, p-Akt1 protein levels were observed with cells exposed to Tideglusib and Lithium chloride. No significant dose-dependent changes were observed for the mRNA expression of collagenase MMP-2, the tumor suppressor p53, or the cell cycle protein p21. Our study also reports Tideglusib reducing colony formation and increasing the level of sub-G0/G1 population in IMR32 cells. Our investigations report the significance of Tideglusib as a promising apoptotic inducer in human neuroblastoma IMR32 cells. Our study also reports that LiCl reduced cell viability in IMR32 cells inducing apoptosis mediated by ROS generation.

Nuclear shuttling of Y Box binding protein-1, its clinical relevance in cancer and as a therapeutic target

<p class="Abstract">Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) is an imperative biomarker for the clinical out-come of cancer patients. An overexpression of YB-1 in cancerous and adjoining tissues is an indication of aggressiveness and advanced stages. In normal resting cells, YB-1 is localized in cytoplasm while in stress conditions like cancer, nuclear shuttling of YB-1 takes place. In this review, the clinical importance of YB-1 in different cancers and the mechanism behind YB-1 nuclear shuttling have been discussed in detail. Targeted chemotherapies or molecularly targeted drugs of great importance can target and block specific molecules implicated in tumor growth and progression. YB-1 has been considered as a bonafide oncogene and accumulating evidences show the therapeutic importance of YB-1. Therapeutic strategies targeting YB-1 may improve the survival rate in cancer patients. This review extensively discusses the therapeutic importance of YB-1.</p><p> </p>

Correction: Development of glycolipid biosurfactant for inducing apoptosis in HeLa cells

Correction for ‘Development of glycolipid biosurfactant for inducing apoptosis in HeLa cells’ by V. Ramalingam et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 64087–64096.

Development of glycolipid biosurfactant for inducing apoptosis in HeLa cells

A novel glycolipid biosurfactant produced fromStaphylococcus aureuswas used to induce apoptosis in HeLa cells.

Integrated poly-d,l-lactide-co-glycolide/silver nanocomposite: synthesis, characterization and wound healing potential in Wistar Albino rats

PLGA polymer based biogenic synthesized silver nanocomposite for wound healing potential in Albino rats.

Single and double chain surfactant–cobalt(iii) complexes: the impact of hydrophobicity on the interaction with calf thymus DNA, and their biological activities

Single chain surfactant–cobalt(iii) complexes interact with minor grooves of CT-DNA, whereas double chin surfactant–cobalt(iii) complexes bind with CT-DNA through partial intercalation.

Growth inhibition of bloom forming cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa by green route fabricated copper oxide nanoparticles

The cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa can potentially proliferate in a wide range of freshwater bionetworks and create extensive secondary metabolites which are harmful to human and animal health. The M. aeruginosa release toxic microcystins that can create a wide range of health-related issues to aquatic animals and humans. It is essential to eliminate them from the ecosystem with convenient method. It has been reported that engineered metal nanoparticles are potentially toxic to pathogenic organisms. In the present study, we examined the growth inhibition effect of green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles against M. aeruginosa. The green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles exhibit an excitation of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) at 270 nm confirmed using UV-visible spectrophotometer. The dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis revealed that synthesized nanoparticles are colloidal in nature and having a particle size of 551 nm with high stability at -26.6 mV. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis shows that copper oxide nanoparticles are spherical, rod and irregular in shape, and consistently distributed throughout the solution. The elemental copper and oxide peak were confirmed using energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDAX). Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy indicates the presence of functional groups which is mandatory for the reduction of copper ions. Besides, green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles shows growth inhibition against M. aeruginosa. The inhibition efficiency was 31.8 % at lower concentration and 89.7 % at higher concentration of copper oxide nanoparticles, respectively. The chlorophyll (a and b) and carotenoid content of M. aeruginosa declined in dose-dependent manner with respect to induction of copper oxide nanoparticles. Furthermore, we analyzed the mechanism behind the cytotoxicity of M. aeruginosa induced by copper oxide nanoparticles through evaluating membrane integrity, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) level. The results expose that there is a loss in membrane integrity with ROS formation that leads to alteration in the Δψm, which ends up with severe mitochondrial injury in copper oxide nanoparticles treated cells. Hence, green way synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles may be a useful selective biological agent for the control of M. aeruginosa.

Wound healing activity of Origanum vulgare engineered titanium dioxide nanoparticles in Wistar Albino rats

The titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2·NPs) were synthesized utilizing Origanum vulgare under room temperature. The green synthesized TiO2 NPs excitation was confirmed using UV-Vis spectrophotometer at 320 nm. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed TiO2·NPs are spherical in shape and connected with one another. Dynamic light scattering analysis results specified high stability in nanoparticles, with an average particle size of 341 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy peaks revealed the presence of bioactive functional groups in Origanum vulgare aqueous leaf extract much needed for the TiO2·NPs formation. X-ray diffraction spectra showed the TiO2·NPs are amorphous in nature. Furthermore, the green synthesized TiO2·NPs wound healing activity was examined in the excision wound model by measuring wound closure, histopathology and protein profiling, revealed significant wound healing activity in Albino rats. In conclusion, our results bared TiO2·NPs have delivered a novel therapeutic route for wound treatment in clinical practice.

Romidepsin induces cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, histone hyperacetylation and reduces matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 expression in bortezomib sensitized non-small cell lung cancer cells

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors have been proven to be effective therapeutic agents to kill cancer cells through inhibiting HDAC activity or altering the structure of chromatin. We recently reported that chemotherapy by the HDAC inhibitor, romidepsin activates the anti- apoptotic transcription factor NF-κB in A549 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and fails to induce significant levels of apoptosis. We also demonstrated that NF-κB inhibition with proteasome inhibitor bortezomib enhanced HDAC inhibitor induced mitochondrial injury and sensitize A549 NSCLC cells to apoptosis through the generation of reactive oxygen species. In this study, we investigate whether combined treatment with romidepsin and bortezomib would induce apoptosis in A549 NSCLC cells by activating cell cycle arrest, enhanced generation of p21 and p53, down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2,9 also altering the acetylation status of histone proteins. Our data show that combination of romidepsin and bortezomib caused cell cycle arrest at Sub G0-G1 transition, up-regulation of cell cycle protein p21 and tumour suppressor protein p53. In addition, romidepsin down-regulated the expression of MMP-2,9 and hyperacetylation of histone H3 and H4 in bortezomib sensitised A549 NSCLC cells. From this study we concluded that romidepsin and bortezomib cooperatively inhibit A549 NSCLC cell proliferation by altering the histone acetylation status, expression of cell cycle regulators and MMPs. Romidepsin along with bortezomib might be an effective treatment approach for A549 NSCLC cells.

Green synthesis of colloidal copper oxide nanoparticles using Carica papaya and its application in photocatalytic dye degradation

Copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were synthesized by treating 5 mM cupric sulphate with Carica papaya leaves extract. The kinetics of the reaction was studied using UV-visible spectrophotometry. An intense surface Plasmon resonance between 250-300 nm in the UV-vis spectrum clearly reveals the formation of copper oxide nanoparticles. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) exhibited that the green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles are rod in shape and having a mean particle size of 140 nm, further negative zeta potential disclose its stability at -28.9 mV. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy results examined the occurrence of bioactive functional groups required for the reduction of copper ions. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra confirmed the copper oxide nanoparticles crystalline nature. Furthermore, colloidal copper oxide nanoparticles effectively degrade the Coomassie brilliant blue R-250 dye beneath the sunlight.

A clinical study on the management of inguinal hernias in children on the general surgical practice

BACKGROUND

Inguinal and scrotal swellings are frequently encountered in the surgical practice, especially in children. It is also important to study the factors which are associated with inguinal hernia, especially in children, for its effective management.

OBJECTIVE

To study the factors which are associated with inguinal hernia in children.

SETTING AND DESIGN

A prospective hospital based study was undertaken in the Department of Surgery for a period of one year between 2001 to 2002. Children who were aged one day to 12 years were selected for the study. Out of 960 children who were admitted to the surgical ward, 50 children had inguinal hernia and they constituted the sample.

METHODOLOGY

The details regarding the clinical history and the examination details were collected by using a predesigned proforma. The data which was thus collected was analyzed by using the appropriate statistical tests.

RESULTS

The inguinal hernia in the study group was common in the 1-5 years age group. 90% of the study group was males; a swelling in the inguinal region was the commonest symptom. 70% of the study group was term deliveries; the swelling of the inguinal hernia was elastic in consistency in 35 cases. The swelling of the inguinal hernia was irreducible in two cases. The testis was palpable in 48 cases; a cough impulse was seen and felt in 48 cases. Tenderness of the swelling was present in 2 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Inguinal hernia is a common congenital condition in children. Difficulties are commonly encountered by the surgeons to identify and to confirm the presence of inguinal hernia. This study will help in a better management of hernia in the paediatric age group by understanding the features of inguinal hernia.

Multiple apocrine hidrocystomas: a case report

Hidrocystomas are rare cystic lesions that form benign tumours of the sweat glands. In this report, a clinical case of multiple apocrine hidrocystomas on both the upper and lower eyelids, and on both the malar regions has been discussed. These lesions are less likely than the eccrine lesions to occur at the periorbital region.

Direct Determination of Grain Boundary Atomic Structure in SrTiO3

An atomic structure model for a 25 degrees [001] symmetric tilt grain boundary in SrTiO(3) has been determined directly from experimental data with the use of high-resolution Z-contrast imaging coupled with electron energy loss spectroscopy. The derived model of the grain boundary was refined by bond-valence sum calculations and reveals candidate sites for dopant atoms in the boundary plane. These results show how the combined techniques can be used to deduce the atomic structure of defects and interfaces without recourse to preconceived structural models or image simulations.

Depsipeptide a histone deacetlyase inhibitor down regulates levels of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 mRNA and protein expressions in lung cancer cells (A549)

BACKGROUND

A novel histone deacetylase inhibitor, depsipeptide FR901228 (FK228), is a promising anticancer and antiproliferative agent and has been proposed to regulate gene transcription and reported to lower the risk of several cancers in different cell lines. Depsipeptide showed therapeutic efficacy in Phase I trial of patients with malignant lymphoma. Based on the recognition that basement membrane disruption occurs in acute lung injury and that matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) can degrade type IV collagen, one of the major components of the basement membrane and known to involve in tumor invasion and metastases. We hypothesized that depsipeptide would modulate MMP-2 and MMP-9 production in lung adenocarcinoma cells line (A549).

METHODS

In this study, we observed the precise involvement of depsipeptide role on cancer metastasis. A549 cells were treated with depsipeptide at various concentrations (50 and 100nm), for 24h period and then subjected to mRNA levels with RT-PCR and protein levels with Western blot analysis to investigate the impact of depsipeptide on MMP-2 and MMP-9 expressions and further confirmed by using immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS

The results showed that depsipeptide treatment decreased the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in dose-dependent manner. The level of mRNA and proteins expressions were significantly decreased in depsipeptide treated A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner and the level of pro-MMP-9 was found to be high in the 100nm depsipeptide-treated cell lysate of A549 cells, suggesting inhibitory role of depsipeptide on pro-MMP-9 activation. Further immunocytochemistry studies showed the weak expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in depsipeptide treated cells.

CONCLUSION

We speculate that inhibition of metastasis-specific MMPs in cancer cells may be one of the targets for anticancer function of depsipeptide, and thus provides the molecular basis for the development of depsipeptide as a novel chemopreventive agent for metastatic lung cancer.

Hepatoprotective activity of Tridax procumbens against d-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatitis in rats

The hepatoprotective activity of aerial parts of Tridax procumbens was investigated against d-Galactosamine/Lipopolysaccharide (d-GalN/LPS) induced hepatitis in rats. d-GalN/LPS (300 mg/kg body weight/30 microg/kg body weight)-induced hepatic damage was manifested by a significant increase in the activities of marker enzymes (aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and gamma glutamyl transferase) and bilirubin level in serum and lipids both in serum and liver. Pretreatment of rats with a chloroform insoluble fraction from ethanolic extract of Tridax procumbens reversed these altered parameters to normal values. The biochemical observations were supplemented by histopathological examination of liver sections. Results of this study revealed that Tridax procumbens could afford a significant protection in the alleviation of d-GalN/LPS-induced hepatocellular injury.

Effect of Tridax procumbens on liver antioxidant defense system during lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatitis in D-galactosamine sensitised rats

The present study was carried out to assess the effect of chloroform insoluble fraction of ethanolic extract of Tridax procumbens (TP) against D-Galactosamine/Lipopolysaccharide (D-GalN/LPS)-induced hepatitis in rats. Induction of rats with D-GalN/LPS (300 mg/kg body weight/30 microg/kg body weight) led to a marked increase in lipid peroxidation as measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in liver. Further there was a decline in the activities of enzymic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione s-transferase and the levels of non-enzymic antioxidants namely reduced glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E. These biochemical alterations were normalised upon pretreatment with TP extract. Thus, the above results suggest that TP (300 mg/kg body weight orally for 10 days) is very effective in allievating the D-GalN/LPS-induced oxidative stress suggesting its antioxidant property.

Evaluation of the Protective Efficacy ofAsteracantha longifoliaon Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Damage in Rats

The effect of oral administration of methanolic extract of Asteracantha longifolia (AL) seeds on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver damage in rats was investigated. The activities of marker enzymes (aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and gamma glutamyl transferase) and bilirubin level in serum and the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and free fatty acids in both serum and liver were found to be increased when rats were challenged with APAP. This was also associated with a significant reduction of serum and tissue phospholipids. Pretreatment with AL extract prior to the administration of APAP prevented these alterations as evidenced by liver histopathology. Results indicated that the extract could offer protection against APAP-induced liver damage, suggesting its hepatoprotective activity.