Assessment of Ferula hermonis Boiss fertility effects in immature female rats supported by quantification of ferutinin via HPLC and molecular docking

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ferula hermonis is a small shrub renowned for its aphrodisiac abilities. Middle East herbalists have utilized Ferula hermonis seed and root as an aphrodisiac folk medicine to treat women's frigidity and male erectile and sexual dysfunction.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Assessment of follicle-stimulating hormone-like (FSH), luteinizing hormone-like (LH), and estrogenic activities of the methanolic extract (ME) of the roots of Ferula hermonis on female reproductive function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The methanolic extract was prepared from the root of F. hermonis and studied at dose level 6 mg/kg in immature female rats for FSH-like, LH-like, and estrogenic activities. These activities were determined by analyzing gross anatomical features, relative organ weight, and serum level of FSH, LH, progesterone and estrogen hormones, and histopathological characteristics. Quantification of the main phytoestrogenic component ferutinin carried out by HPLC. In addition, molecular docking for the binding affinity of ferutinin inside active sites of both estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and FSH receptor (FSHR) was performed to predict the potential role of ferutinin in regulating the female reproductive process.

RESULTS

Ferula hermonis (ME) showed potent FSH-like, LH-like activities and moderate estrogenic effect at the dose of 6 mg/kg. The content of ferutinin in F. hermonis was estimated to be 92 ± 1.33 mg/g of the methanolic extract. Molecular docking of ferutinin with ERα and FSHR displayed strong interaction with target proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on results, it can be concluded that Ferula hermonis can be considered as a suitable female fertility improving agent.

In vitro evaluation of ferutinin on proliferation and osteogenesis differentiation in human unrestricted Somatic stem cells

Osteoporosis is a common disease in post-menopausal women. The increased risk of breast cancer and malignancy with hormone replacement, hampers its wide-usage. Phytoestrogens are known to have selective estrogen receptor modulator activity. The present study aims to determine how ferutinin affects unrestricted human Somatic Stem Cells (USSCs) osteogenic differentiation. The effect of ferutinin on USSCs proliferation was assessed by MTT assay while osteogenesis was evaluated using Alkaline Phosphatase Activity (ALP), calcium deposition and Alizarin Red Staining. Quantitative real-time PCR was applied to examine the expression of bone specific genes such as osteocalcin, Runx₂, and BMP-₂. Ferutinin (5-15 µg/mL) could positively impact on the proliferation of cells in a dose-dependent manner. Also, ALP enzyme activity and calcium deposition were enhanced in the presence of ferutinin. Based on real-time PCR results, ferutinin could increase the expression of bone marker genes. The pattern of ferutinin effect on gene expression is similar to standard synthetic estrogen, 17-β-estradiol. In the presence of the estrogen activity inhibitor (ICI), the effect of ferutinin on ALP and gene level was diminished. In conclusion, ferutinin may be considered as a potential candidate for the stem cell therapy in osteoporosis.

Antinociceptive Efficacy of the µ-Opioid/Nociceptin Peptide-Based Hybrid KGNOP1 in Inflammatory Pain without Rewarding Effects in Mice: An Experimental Assessment and Molecular Docking

Opioids are the most effective analgesics, with most clinically available opioids being agonists to the µ-opioid receptor (MOR). The MOR is also responsible for their unwanted effects, including reward and opioid misuse leading to the current public health crisis. The imperative need for safer, non-addictive pain therapies drives the search for novel leads and new treatment strategies. In this study, the recently discovered MOR/nociceptin (NOP) receptor peptide hybrid KGNOP1 (H-Dmt-D-Arg-Aba-β-Ala-Arg-Tyr-Tyr-Arg-Ile-Lys-NH2) was evaluated following subcutaneous administration in mouse models of acute (formalin test) and chronic inflammatory pain (Complete Freund's adjuvant-induced paw hyperalgesia), liabilities of spontaneous locomotion, conditioned place preference, and the withdrawal syndrome. KGNOP1 demonstrated dose-dependent antinociceptive effects in the formalin test, and efficacy in attenuating thermal hyperalgesia with prolonged duration of action. Antinociceptive effects of KGNOP1 were reversed by naltrexone and SB-612111, indicating the involvement of both MOR and NOP receptor agonism. In comparison with morphine, KGNOP1 was more potent and effective in mouse models of inflammatory pain. Unlike morphine, KGNOP1 displayed reduced detrimental liabilities, as no locomotor impairment nor rewarding and withdrawal effects were observed. Docking of KGNOP1 to the MOR and NOP receptors and subsequent 3D interaction pattern analyses provided valuable insights into its binding mode. The mixed MOR/NOP receptor peptide KGNOP1 holds promise in the effort to develop new analgesics for the treatment of various pain states with fewer MOR-mediated side effects, particularly abuse and dependence liabilities.

Ferula L. Plant Extracts and Dose-Dependent Activity of Natural Sesquiterpene Ferutinin: From Antioxidant Potential to Cytotoxic Effects

The employment studies of natural extracts in the prevention and treatment of several diseases highlighted the role of different species of genus Ferula L., belonging to the Apiaceae family, dicotyledonous plants present in many temperate zones of our planet. Ferula communis L. is the main source of sesquiterpene ferutinin, a bioactive compound studied both in vitro and in vivo, because of different effects, such as phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, but also antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity, performed in a dose-dependent and cell-dependent way. The present review will focus on the molecular mechanisms involved in the different activities of Ferutinin, starting from its antioxidant potential at low doses until its ionophoric property and the subsequent mitochondrial dysfunction induced through administration of high doses, which represent the key point of its anticancer action. Furthermore, we will summarize the data acquired from some experimental studies on different cell types and on several diseases. The results obtained showed an important antioxidant and phytoestrogenic regulation with lack of typical side effects related to estrogenic therapy. The preferential cell death induction for tumor cell lines suggests that ferutinin may have anti-neoplastic properties, and may be used as an antiproliferative and cytotoxic agent in an estrogen dependent and independent manner. Nevertheless, more data are needed to clearly understand the effect of ferutinin in animals before using it as a phytoestrogen or anticancer drug.

Modulation of the NOP receptor signaling affects resilience to acute stress

BACKGROUND

The peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP) are implicated in the modulation of emotional states. Previous human and rodent findings support NOP antagonists as antidepressants. However, the role played by the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in resilience to stress is unclear.

AIMS

The present study investigated the effects of activation or blockade of NOP receptor signaling before exposure to acute stress.

METHODS

The behavioral effects of the administration before stress of the NOP agonists Ro 65-6570 (0.01-1 mg/kg) and MCOPPB (0.1-10 mg/kg), and the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg) were assessed in mice exposed to inescapable electric footshock and forced swim as stressors. The behavioral phenotype of mice lacking the NOP receptor (NOP(-/-)) exposed to inescapable electric footshock was also investigated.

RESULTS

The activation of NOP receptor signaling with the agonists increased the percentage of mice developing helpless behavior and facilitated immobile posture. In contrast, the blockade of NOP receptor reduced the acquisition of depressive-like phenotypes, and similar resistance to develop helpless behaviors was observed in NOP(-/-) mice. Under the same stressful conditions, the antidepressant nortriptyline (20 mg/kg) did not change the acquisition of helpless behavior and immobile posture.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the view that NOP activation during acute stress facilitates the development of depressive-related behaviors, whereas NOP blockade has a protective outcome. This study showed for first time that NOP antagonists are worthy of investigation as preemptive treatments in patients with severe risk factors for depression.

Comparison the Effect of Ferutinin and 17β-Estradiol on Bone Mineralization of Developing Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Larvae

There is an urgent need to develop novel drugs for osteoporosis which occurs due to estrogen deficiency. Phytoestrogens derived from medicinal plants would be the best alternative to chemical drugs with harmful side effects. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of ferutinin compared to 17β-estradiol (E2) on bone mineralization of zebrafish larvae. Regarding the lack of publications, the histology analysis was performed after exposure to E2 to find effective treatment on bone mineralization of developing zebrafish larvae. Then, the larvae were exposed to four concentrations of ferutinin at three time points to assess the mortality, the expression of some related genes and histology of the ceratohyal and hyomandibular of treated larvae. The RT-PCR result of the treatment groups demonstrated the similar expression pattern in the larvae which were exposed to 1.25 μg/mL of ferutinin and 2 µM of E2 at 2 dpf, which confirmed the result of histology analysis. In addition, RT-qPCR of high concentration of ferutinin and E2 demonstrated that bmp2a/b and esr1 were downregulated and upregulated when the larvae were exposed to 5 μg/mL of ferutinin and 10 µM of E2, respectively.

Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor agonists increase aggressiveness in the mouse resident-intruder test

Aggressive behaviors can be considered symptoms of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress, intermittent explosive, and personality disorders. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a peptide acting as endogenous ligand of the NOP receptor. Preclinical and clinical findings suggest the NOP receptor as an innovative target for the treatment of psychopathologies, such as anxiety, depression, and drug abuse. This study investigated the effects of NOP ligands and the behavioral phenotype of mice lacking the NOP receptor in an animal model of aggressiveness, the resident-intruder test. Mood stabilizers, such as valproate, lithium, and carbamazepine reduced aggressive behaviors of resident mice, while diazepam was inactive. In contrast, para-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), an inhibitor of 5-HT synthesis, increased aggressiveness in mice. Similar to PCPA, the treatment with the NOP agonists Ro 65-6570 and AT-090 also increased aggressive behaviors. The systemic administration of the NOP antagonist SB-612111 did not modify the behavior of resident mice, but it prevented the aggressive behavior of Ro 65-6570. NOP receptor knockout mice did not display any behavioral difference compared to wild-type animals in the resident-intruder test. None of the treatments affected non-agonistic behaviors and spontaneous locomotion. In conclusion, NOP receptor agonists increased aggressiveness, while the pharmacological and genetic blockade of NOP receptor signaling did not modify agonistic behaviors. Ultimately, the aggressive profile of action of NOP agonists should be taken into account in the development of innovative psychiatric drugs targeting the NOP receptor.

Alstoscholactine and Alstolaxepine, Monoterpenoid Indole Alkaloids with γ-Lactone-Bridged Cycloheptane and Oxepane Moieties from Alstonia scholaris

Two new monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, alstoscholactine (1) and alstolaxepine (2), were isolated from Alstonia scholaris. Compound 1 represents a rearranged stemmadenine alkaloid with an unprecedented C-6-C-19 connectivity, whereas compound 2 represents a 6,7- seco-angustilobine B-type alkaloid incorporating a rare γ-lactone-bridged oxepane ring system. Their structures and absolute configurations were determined by spectroscopic analyses. Compound 1 was successfully semisynthesized from 19 E-vallesamine. Compound 2 induced marked vasorelaxation in rat isolated aortic rings precontracted with phenylephrine.

Antidepressant activity of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor antagonists in the mouse learned helplessness

RATIONALE

Pharmacological and genetic evidence support antidepressant-like effects elicited by the blockade of the NOP receptor. The learned helplessness (LH) model employs uncontrollable and unpredictable electric footshocks as a stressor stimulus to induce a depressive-like phenotype that can be reversed by classical antidepressants.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to evaluate the action of NOP receptor antagonists in helpless mice.

METHODS

Male Swiss mice were subjected to the three steps of the LH paradigm (i.e., (1) induction, (2) screening, and (3) test). Only helpless animals were subjected to the test session. During the test session, animals were placed in the electrified chamber and the latency to escape after the footshock and the frequency of escape failures were recorded. The effect of the following treatments administered before the test session were evaluated: nortriptyline (30 mg/kg, ip, 60 min), fluoxetine (30 mg/kg, ip, four consecutive days of treatment), and NOP antagonists SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg, ip, 30 min) and UFP-101 (1-10 nmol, icv, 5 min). To rule out possible biases, the effects of treatments on controllable stressful and non stressful situations were assessed.

RESULTS

In helpless mice, nortriptyline, fluoxetine, UFP-101 (3-10 nmol), and SB-612111 (3-10 mg/kg) significantly reduced escape latencies and escape failures. No effects of drug treatments were observed in mice subjected to the controllable electric footshocks and non stressful situations.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute treatment with NOP antagonists reversed helplessness similarly to the classical antidepressants. These findings support the proposal that NOP receptor antagonists are worthy of development as innovative antidepressant drugs.

Spinal antinociceptive effects of the novel NOP receptor agonist PWT2-nociceptin/orphanin FQ in mice and monkeys

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Using an innovative chemical approach, peptide welding technology (PWT), a tetrabranched derivative of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) has been generated and pharmacologically characterized. Both in vitro and in vivo PWT2-N/OFQ displayed the same pharmacological profile to the natural ligand. It was more potent and produced longer-lasting effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the spinal effects of PWT2-N/OFQ in nociceptive and neuropathic pain models in mice and non-human primates.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Tail withdrawal assay in mice and monkeys was used as a nociceptive pain model and mechanical threshold in mice subjected to chronic constriction injury was used as a neuropathic pain model. The antinociceptive effects of spinally administered N/OFQ and PWT2-N/OFQ were assessed in these models.

KEY RESULTS

PWT2-N/OFQ mimicked the spinal antinociceptive effects of N/OFQ both in nociceptive and neuropathic pain models in mice as well as in non-human primates displaying 40-fold higher potency and a markedly prolonged duration of action. The effects of N/OFQ and PWT2-N/OFQ were sensitive to the N/OFQ receptor (NOP) antagonist SB-612111, but not to opioid receptor antagonists.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The present study has demonstrated that PWT2-N/OFQ mimicked the antinociceptive effects of the natural peptide in rodents and non-human primates acting as a potent and longer-lasting NOP-selective agonist. More generally, PWT derivatives of biologically active peptides can be viewed as innovative pharmacological tools for investigating those conditions and states in which selective and prolonged receptor stimulation promotes beneficial effects.

Exploring LPS-induced sepsis in rats and mice as a model to study potential protective effects of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ system

The nociceptin receptor (NOP) and its ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) have been shown to exert a modulatory effect on immune cells during sepsis. We evaluated the suitability of an experimental lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis model for studying changes in the nociceptin system. C57BL/6 mice BALB/c mice and Wistar rats were inoculated with different doses of LPS with or without a nociceptin receptor antagonist (UFP-101 or SB-612111). In C57BL/6 mice LPS 0.85 mg/kg injection produced no septic response, whereas 1.2mg/kg produced a profound response within 5h. In BALB/c mice, LPS 4 mg/kg produced no response, whereas 7 mg/kg resulted in a profound response within 24h. In Wistar rats LPS 15 mg/kg caused no septic response in 6/10 animals, whereas 25mg/kg resulted in marked lethargy before 24h. Splenic interleukin-1β mRNA in BALB/c mice, and serum TNF-α concentrations in Wistar rats increased after LPS injection in a dose-dependent manner, but were undetectable in control animals, indicating that LPS had stimulated an inflammatory reaction. IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations in LPS-treated animals were unaffected by administration of a NOP antagonist. Similarly NOP antagonists had no effect on survival or expression of mRNA for NOP or ppN/OFQ (the N/OFQ precursor) in a variety of tissues. In these animal models, the dose-response curve for LPS was too steep to allow use in survival studies and no changes in the N/OFQ system occurred within 24h. We conclude that LPS-inoculation in rodents is an unsuitable model for studying possible changes in the NOP-N/OFQ system in sepsis.

Retrodialysis of N/OFQ into the nucleus accumbens shell blocks cocaine-induced increases in extracellular dopamine and locomotor activity

Nociceptin (N/OFQ) has been implicated in a variety of neurological disorders, most notably in reward processes and drug abuse. N/OFQ suppresses extracellular dopamine in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) after intracerebroventricular injection. This study sought to examine the effects of retrodialyzed N/OFQ on the cocaine-induced increase in extracellular dopamine levels in the NAc, as well as locomotor activity, in freely moving rats. 1.0μM, 10μM, and 1mM N/OFQ, in the NAc shell, significantly suppressed the cocaine-induced dopamine increase in the NAc, while N/OFQ alone had no significant effect on dopamine levels. Co-delivery of the selective NOP receptor antagonist SB612111 ([(-)-cis-1-Methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol] reversed the N/OFQ suppression of cocaine-induced dopamine in the NAc, suggesting that this is an NOP receptor-mediated effect. Using a novel system to assess locomotion, we measured various motor activities of the animals with simultaneous microdialysis from the home cage. Cocaine produced an expected increase in total activity, including horizontal movement and rearing behavior. Retrodialysis of N/OFQ with cocaine administration affected all motor activities, initially showing no effect on behavior, but over time inhibiting cocaine-induced motor behaviors. These results suggest that N/OFQ can act directly in the NAc shell to block cocaine-induced increases in extracellular dopamine levels. Extracellular dopamine and locomotor activity can be dissociated within the NAc and may reflect motor output differences in shell versus core regions of the NAc. These studies confirm the widespread involvement of NOP receptors in drug addiction and further validate the utility of an NOP receptor agonist as a medication for treatment of drug addiction.

Dibenzocycloheptanoids from the leaves of Cinnamomum subavenium

Five dibenzocycloheptatrienes (1-3, 5, and 6) and one dibenzocycloheptadiene (8) together with 16 known compounds were isolated from the leaves of Cinnamomum subavenium. Application of HPLC-SPE-NMR to a selected fraction afforded two additional dibenzocycloheptatrienes (4, 7). The glycosides 2-7 comprise two diastereomers because of the chiral glycosyl moiety and the axial chirality of the biphenyl system. Their structures were elucidated via ECD and 2D NMR analyses and chemical degradation. Subavenosides D (5) and E (6) showed moderate inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase type IV from Bacillus stearothermophilus with IC₅₀ values of 50.7 and 19.0 μM, respectively.

[Research progress of selective mGluR1 antagonists]

As an important member of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR), metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1) plays an important role in the signal transduction of central nervous system. Selective mGluR1 antagonists can block the signaling pathway activated by mGluR1 and exert a series of physiological actions including analgesia, antianxiety, antidepression, etc. Currently, the discovery and modification of selective mGluR1 antagonists have become a hot research focus. This paper reviews the structural catalogs of selective mGluR1 antagonists and their structure-activity relationships in the last decade.

Nociceptin/orphanin FQ suppresses the excitability of neurons in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus

Nociceptin or orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) stimulates food intake when injected into the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMN). The VMN negatively regulates energy balance in part by tonically activating proopiomelanocortin arcuate neurons, thereby suppressing food intake. However, it is not clear how orexigenic neurotransmission within the VMN can stimulate food intake. We tested the hypothesis that the orexigenic action of N/OFQ results from its inhibition of anorexigenic VMN neurons. We studied the effects of N/OFQ on the electrical properties of anorexigenic VMN neurons in acute brain slices. Ionic mechanisms underlying the actions of N/OFQ were studied using whole cell patch-clamp recordings from VMN neurons expressing the anorexigenic leptin receptor (LepRb). Bath application of N/OFQ to LepRb-expressing VMN neurons elicited a robust, reversible membrane hyperpolarization that suppressed neuronal excitability by raising the action potential firing threshold and cell rheobase. N/OFQ activated a postsynaptic, G-protein coupled, inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) current that was sensitive to G-protein inactivation, blocked by the GIRK blocker SCH23390, and occluded by the GABAB agonist and potent GIRK activator, baclofen. Application of the selective N/OFQ receptor antagonist SB-612111 blocked the inhibitory effects of N/OFQ. We concluded that N/OFQ directly inhibited VMN neurons by activating a GIRK. These results implicate the site-specific contributions of orexigenic neuropeptides at VMN neurons to suppress anorexigenic output. This study thus advances our understanding regarding the contributions of the VMN to hypothalamic regulation of energy balance.

Quantitative study of the antagonistic effect of (-)-cis-1-Methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol (SB-612111) on nociceptin/orphanin FQ-mediated potassium channel activation in rat periaqueductal gray slices

Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor, a non-opioid branch of the opioid receptor family, shows structural similarities to traditional opioid receptors but binds opioid with very poor affinity. This receptor has been implicated in many physiological functions including pain regulation. This study quantitatively investigated the effect of (-)-cis-1-Methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1 -yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol (SB-612111), a novel non-peptide ligand of NOP receptor, on the native NOP receptors in the midbrain ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG), a crucial region for pain regulation. SB-612111 concentration-dependently antagonized N/OFQ-induced G-protein coupled inwardly rectifying K(+) (GIRK) current in vlPAG neurons. The IC(50) value of SB-612111 estimated from dose-response curves is 87.7±1.2nM. SB-612111 had no intrinsic agonistic activity and did not affect the GIRK current induced by [D-Ala(2), N-Me-Phe(4), Gly(5)-ol]-enkephalin, a mu-opioid receptor agonist, when tested at concentrations of up to 1μM. It is concluded that SB-612111 is a pure, potent and selective antagonist of NOP receptors that mediate GIRK channel activation in the vlPAG neurons.

Hormetic and anti-radiation effects of tropolone-related compounds

We have previously investigated a total of 173 azulene-, tropolone- and azulenequinone-related compounds for their tumor-specificity and anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, we selected six compounds that showed tumor-specific cytotoxicity (referred to as group I compounds) and five compounds that inhibited nitric oxide production by activated macrophages (referred to as group II compounds) to investigate their possible hormetic and anti-radiation effects. We have established three oral normal cell type, human gingival fibroblast HGF-1, pulp cell HPC-1 and periodontal ligament fibroblast HPLF-1, from extracted teeth and periodontal tissue. These normal cells expressed p53 protein, regardless of the growth stage (either at growing or near confluent phase), more than oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line (HSC-2). Group I compounds slightly stimulated the growth of HPL-1 cells only at restricted durations and concentrations, but did not affect that of HGF-1 and HPC-1 cells, suggesting the minor hormetic effects displayed by these compounds. We established a new evaluation system for UV-induced cellular damage using an intact HSC-2 cell system in which sodium ascorbate (vitamin C) and gallic acid, but not N-acetyl-l-cysteine nor catalase, exerted protective effects. Three group I compounds and two group II compounds significantly protected the cells from UV-induced injury, suggesting their possible anti-UV effect.

C-peptide is internalised in human endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells via early endosomes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

There is increasing evidence that C-peptide exerts intracellular effects in a variety of cells and could be beneficial in patients with type 1 diabetes. Exactly how C-peptide achieves these effects, however, is unknown. Recent reports showed that C-peptide internalised in the cytoplasm of HEK-293 and Swiss 3T3 cells, where it was not degraded for at least 1 h after uptake. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that C-peptide is internalised via an endocytic pathway and traffics to classic endocytic organelles, such as endosomes and lysosomes.

METHODS

We studied the internalisation of C-peptide in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, two relevant targets of C-peptide activity, by using Alexa Fluor-labelled C-peptide probes in living cells and immunohistochemistry employing confocal laser-scanning microscopy. To examine trafficking to subcellular compartments, we used fluorescent constructs tagged to RAB5A, member RAS oncogene family (RAB5A) to identify early endosomes, or to lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) to identify lysosomes.

RESULTS

C-peptide internalised in the cytoplasm of cells within punctate structures identified as early endosomes. Internalisation was clearly detectable after 10 min of incubation and was blocked at 4 degrees C as well as with excess of unlabelled C-peptide. A minor fraction of vesicles, which increased with culture time, co-localised with lysosomes. Uptake of C-peptide was reduced by monodansylcadaverine, a pharmacological compound that blocks clathrin-mediated endocytosis, and by nocodazole, which disrupts microtubule assembly.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

C-peptide internalises in the cytoplasm of cells by endocytosis, as demonstrated by its localisation in early endosomes. Endosomes might represent a signalling station, through which C-peptide might achieve its cellular effects.

The phytoestrogen ferutinin improves sexual behavior in ovariectomized rats

The present study was designed to examine the effect of ferutinin chronic administration on sexual behavior of ovariectomized non-estrogen-primed rats. Starting from 3 weeks after ovariectomy, female rats were orally treated with ferutinin at the doses of 0.2 and 0.5 mg/kg, daily for 4 weeks. Ferutinin's effect was compared with that of estradiol benzoate, subcutaneously injected at the dose of 1.5 microg/rat twice a week. Animals were tested for sexual motivation, receptivity and proceptivity after 1, 2 and 3 weeks of treatment and for paced mating behavior after 4 weeks of treatment. Before each experimental test, they received progesterone injection (500 microg/rat). Both dosages of ferutinin significantly increased the receptive behavior in a time-dependent manner, as well as estradiol benzoate did. Also proceptive behaviors increased in ferutinin-treated animals in comparison with control ones. During the partner preference test ferutinin was able to induce a significant preference for a sexually active male over a sexually receptive female. Moreover, ferutinin restored a normal paced mating behavior, which had been suppressed by ovariectomy. These results show that ferutinin exerts an estrogenic activity in ovariectomized non-estrogen-primed female rats.

Influence of ferutinin on bone metabolism in ovariectomized rats. I: role in preventing osteoporosis

Phytoestrogens play a role in maintaining bone mass in the post-menopausal period for their putative function as osteoprotective agents. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of Ferutinin, a phytoestrogen found in the plants of Ferula genus, on bone loss in ovariectomized rats. Such an animal model can simulate the various clinical syndromes deriving from osteoporosis. The effect of the daily oral administration of ferutinin to ovariectomized rats (dosed at 2 mg/kg per day for 30 and 60 days) was compared to that of estradiol benzoate (subcutaneously administered at the dose of 1.5 microg/rat twice a week). After the sacrifice, histomorphometrical analyses were performed on trabecular bone of L4-L5 vertebrae and distal femoral metaphysis, as well as on cortical bone of femoral diaphysis; biochemical parameters (bone mineral components and markers) were also evaluated from the rat serum. The histomorphometrical analyses of trabecular and cortical bone from lumbar vertebrae and femur showed that ferutinin has the same antiosteoporotic effect of estradiol benzoate on bone mass, and in some cases is even stronger. This fact suggests that it could prevent osteoporosis caused by severe estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized rats. The possibility of using ferutinin as an alternative to the commonly employed hormonal replacing therapy in post-menopausal women is discussed.

The phytoestrogen ferutinin affects female sexual behavior modulating ERalpha expression in the hypothalamus

This study was designed to assess the effect of the phytoestrogenic compound ferutinin, chronically administered in ovariectomized progesterone primed rats, alone or in combination with estradiol benzoate. After 2, 3 and 4 weeks of treatments, female rats were tested for receptive (lordosis) and proceptive behaviors (hops, darts and ear wigglings). Ferutinin given alone markedly increased the intensity of the lordotic response in ovariectomized rats but failed to significantly affect proceptivity. On the other hand estradiol benzoate significantly increased both receptive and proceptive behaviors. When administered in combination with estradiol, ferutinin reduced the increase in receptivity and proceptivity due to estrogen effects, acting as an antiestrogen. At the end of the behavioral experiments, animals were sacrificed and Western blot analysis of estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) levels was performed in the dissected hypothalami. Ferutinin increased ERalpha expression when administered alone, as estradiol did, but decreased the response to estradiol when administered in combination. These results suggest that ferutinin displays estrogenic or antiestrogenic activity through ERalpha in the hypothalamus, depending on the absence or the presence of estrogen priming.

Synthesis, Enantiomeric Resolution, and Structure–Activity Relationship Study of a Series of 10,11-Dihydro-5H-Dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptene MT2 Receptor Antagonists

Racemic N-(8-methoxy-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-10-ylmethyl)acetamide (compound 5) was previously identified as a novel selective MT(2) antagonist fulfilling the requirements of pharmacophore and 3D QSAR models. In this study the enantiomers of 5 were separated by medium-pressure liquid chromatography and behaved as the racemate. Compound 5 was modified at the acylaminomethyl side chain and at position C8. The resulting analogues generally behaved as melatonin receptor antagonists (GTPgammaS test) with a modest degree of selectivity (up to 10-fold) for the MT(2) receptor. Changes at the amide side chain led to a decrease in binding affinity, whereas 8-acetyl and 8-methyl derivatives 12 and 11, respectively, were as potent as the 8-methoxy parent compound 5. Docking experiments with an MT(2) receptor model suggested binding modes consistent with the observed SARs and with the lack of selectivity of the enantiomers of 5.

Antinociceptive profile of a selective metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 antagonist YM-230888 in chronic pain rodent models

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGlu(1) receptor) has been suggested to play an important role in pain transmission. In this study, the effects of a newly-synthesized mGlu(1) receptor antagonist, (R)-N-cycloheptyl-6-({[(tetrahydro-2-furyl)methyl]amino}methyl)thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-ylamine (YM-230888), were examined in a variety of rodent chronic pain models in order to characterize the potential analgesic profile of mGlu(1) receptor blockade. YM-230888 bound an allosteric site of mGlu(1) receptor with a K(i) value of 13+/-2.5 nM and inhibited mGlu(1)-mediated inositol phosphate production in rat cerebellar granule cells with an IC(50) value of 13+/-2.4 nM. It showed selectivity for mGlu(1) versus mGlu(2)-mGlu(7) subtypes and ionotropic glutamate receptors. YM-230888 recovered mechanical allodynia with an ED(50) value of 8.4 mg/kg p.o. in L5/L6 spinal nerve ligation models. It also showed antinociceptive response at doses of 10 and 30 mg/kg p.o. in streptozotocin-induced hyperalgesia models. In addition, it significantly reduced pain parameters at a dose of 30 mg/kg p.o. in complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritic pain models. Although YM-230888 showed no significant effect on rotarod performance time at doses of 10 or 30 mg/kg p.o., it significantly decreased it at a dose of 100 mg/kg p.o. On the other hand, YM-230888 showed no significant sedative effect in locomotor activity measurement up to 100 mg/kg p.o. These results suggest that the blockade of mGlu(1) receptors is an attractive target for analgesics. YM-230888 has potential as a new analgesic agent for the treatment of various chronic pain conditions. In addition, YM-230888 may be a useful tool for the investigation of mGlu(1) receptors.

Identification of a novel class of selective Tpl2 kinase inhibitors: 4-Alkylamino-[1,7]naphthyridine-3-carbonitriles

We have previously reported the discovery and initial SAR of the [1,7]naphthyridine-3-carbonitriles and quinoline-3-carbonitriles as Tumor Progression Loci-2 (Tpl2) kinase inhibitors. In this paper, we report new SAR efforts which have led to the identification of 4-alkylamino-[1,7]naphthyridine-3-carbonitriles. These compounds show good in vitro and in vivo activity against Tpl2 and improved pharmacokinetic properties. In addition they are highly selective for Tpl2 kinase over other kinases, for example, EGFR, MEK, MK2, and p38. Lead compound 4-cycloheptylamino-6-[(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)-amino]-[1,7]naphthyridine-3-carbonitrile (30) was efficacious in a rat model of LPS-induced TNF-alpha production.

Pharmacological characterization of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor antagonist SB-612111 [(-)-cis-1-methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol]: in vitro studies

The compound SB-612111 [(-)-cis-1-methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol] was recently identified as a selective antagonist for the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide receptor (NOP). In the present study, the in vitro pharmacological profile of SB-612111 at human recombinant NOP receptors expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells [receptor binding, guanosine 5'-O-(3-[(35)S]thio)triphosphate (GTPgamma[(35)S]) binding, and cAMP level experiments] as well as at native NOP receptors expressed in peripheral (mouse and rat vas deferens, guinea pig ileum) and central (mouse cerebral cortex synaptosomes releasing [(3)H]5-HT) preparations was evaluated and compared with that of the standard nonpeptide antagonist (+/-)J-113397 [(+/-)-trans-1-[1-cyclooctylmethyl-3-hydroxymethyl-4-piperidyl]-3-ethyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one]. SB-612111 produced a concentration-dependent displacement of [(3)H]N/OFQ binding to CHO(hNOP) cell membranes, showing higher affinity and NOP selectivity over classical opioid receptors than (+/-)J-113397. SB-612111 and (+/-)J-113397 competitively antagonized the effects of N/OFQ on GTPgamma[(35)S] binding in CHO(hNOP) cell membranes (pK(B), 9.70 and 8.71, respectively) and on cAMP accumulation in CHO(hNOP) cells (pK(B), 8.63 and 7.95, respectively), being per se inactive. In isolated peripheral tissues of mice, rats, and guinea pigs and in mouse cerebral cortex synaptosomes preloaded with [(3)H]5-HT, SB-612111 competitively antagonized the inhibitory effects of N/OFQ, with pA(2) values in the range of 8.20 to 8.50. In parallel experiments, (+/-)J-113397 was found to be 2- to 9-fold less potent than SB-612111. In the electrically stimulated tissues, 1 microM SB-612111 did not modify the effects of classical opioid receptor agonists. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated that SB-612111 is among the most potent and NOP-selective nonpeptide antagonists identified to date.

Pharmacological characterization of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor antagonist SB-612111 [(-)-cis-1-methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol]: in vivo studies

The excellent pharmacological profile displayed by the selective nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor antagonist SB-612111 [(-)-cis-1-methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol] in vitro prompted us to investigate the actions of this compound in vivo. In the mouse tail withdrawal assay, SB-612111 given i.p. up to 3 mg/kg did not modify per se tail withdrawal latencies but was able to prevent the pronociceptive and the antinociceptive action of 1 nmol of N/OFQ given i.c.v. and i.t., respectively. In food intake studies performed in sated mice, SB-612111 (1 mg/kg i.p.) had no effect on food consumption but fully prevented the orexigenic effect of 1 nmol of N/OFQ i.c.v. In 17-h food-deprived mice, the opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone (1 mg/kg s.c.), but not SB-612111 (1 and 10 mg/kg i.p.), produced a statistically significant reduction of food intake. In the mouse forced swimming and tail suspension tests, SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg) reduced immobility time. The antidepressant-like effect elicited by SB-612111 in the forced swimming test was reversed by the i.c.v. injection of 1 nmol of N/OFQ and no longer evident in mice knockout for the NOP receptor gene. In conclusion, the present findings demonstrate that SB-612111 behaves in vivo as a potent and selective NOP antagonist and suggest that the N/OFQ-NOP receptor endogenous system plays an important role in regulating mood-related behaviors. The use of SB-612111 in future pathophysiological studies will certainly contribute to define the therapeutic potential of selective NOP receptor antagonists in different disease areas.

Efficiency of NaOCl and laser-assisted photosensitization on the reduction of Enterococcus faecalis in vitro

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the action of a red laser associated with a photosensitizer on the reduction of Enterococcus faecalis in dental root canal in vitro.

STUDY DESIGN

Thirty prepared teeth with single canals were contaminated. The chemical group was irrigated with 0.5% NaOCl and left flooded for 30 minutes. In the laser group, a paste-based photosensitizer was maintained in the root canals for 5 minutes, and then irradiated with a laser at 685 nm using an optical fiber for an E of 1.8 J during 3 minutes. After treatment, the canal content was collected, serially diluted, and cultured to determine the number of colony-forming units.

RESULTS

Photosensitizer alone or laser alone did not have any bactericidal effect. Chemical solution reduced viable bacteria in 93.25%. Laser photosensitization resulted in a reduction of 99.2%, a significantly higher bacterial reduction than NaOCl.

CONCLUSION

Laser photosensitization was effective for reducing E. faecalis in root canals and could be an adjunct to endodontic treatment.

Eberconazole cream: topical and general tolerability, sensitisation potential, and systemic availability

Eberconazole is a topical imidazole derivative, which has shown high potency against dermatophytes and yeasts (several species of Candida, Malassezia) in vitro and in experimental models. Clinical trials have found that the compound has a high degree of efficacy against dermatophytes and good tolerability. Evaluation of its a) topical and general tolerability, b) eventual development of sensitisation, c) local availability, and d) degree of systemic absorption. Two clinical trials with 28 healthy young volunteers of both sexes were performed. In Study I, placebo or eberconazole cream (2%) were applied at increasing doses: day 1 (0.5 g), days 2-3 (1 g), days 4-5 (2 g), days 6-7 (4 g), days 8-9 (8 g), and days 10-11 (12 g). On day 1, each application area was washed with ethanol-soaked gauzes at different times to assess availability of the active compound. In Study II, eberconazole cream (1%) was applied on day 1 and again at least one week later. After the first application, blood and urine samples were obtained at different times to assess systemic absorption. The only change observed was slight redness in a few volunteers after both active and placebo applications. This remitted spontaneously without intervention and we were able to continue with the administration of repeated increasing-doses. A few participants described side effects; these were all of mild intensity, and occurred in areas where placebo or eberconazole were applied, mainly within the first hour postapplication. The most frequent effect after the first application was coldness, and after repeated increasing-doses there was itching. No signs or symptoms of skin reactivity were observed following reexposure to the product. No clinically relevant changes were observed in vital signs (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature), ECG, or analytical parameters (clinical haematology and biochemistry). The quantity of compound collected through washing gauzes decreased progressively over time. Plasma and urine concentrations of eberconazole were below the quantification limit of the analytical method (5 ng/ml) at all times. Eberconazole cream is a topical antimycotic drug that has good local and general tolerability. It has acceptable topical availability, no detectable systemic drug levels, and does not appear to cause skin sensitivity.

Evaluation of disk diffusion method for determining eberconazole susceptibility of dermatophytes and influence of culture medium

We have evaluated a disk diffusion method to determine the activity of eberconazole against 50 strains of dermatophytes by testing three culture media (RPMI, antibiotic medium 3, and high resolution). No differences were found among the results obtained with the three media. A significant correlation between disk diffusion and microdilution methods was observed with AM3.

Synthesis, physicochemical and in vitro pharmacological investigation of new platinum (II) complexes with some cycloalkanespiro-5′-hydantoins

Platinum (II) complexes with cyclobutanespiro-5'-hydantoin and cycloheptanespiro-5'-hydantoin were synthesized and evaluated by means of general physicochemical methods. The data from the elemental analysis, IR and NMR spectra suggested the formation of cis-[Pt(C6H8N2O2)2(NH3)2](NO3)2 x 4H2O (PtCBH), when cyclobutanespiro-5'-hydantoin was used as a ligand and cis-[Pt(C9H14N2O2)(NH3)2](NO3)2 x 4H2O (PtCHTH), when cycloheptanespiro-5'-hydantoin was used, respectively. The novel complexes exerted cytotoxic effects at micromolar concentrations against a panel of human tumor cell lines. They were found to trigger apoptosis in HL-60 and BV-173 cells as evidenced by DNA-laddering detection. The evaluation of the effects of PtCBH, PtCHTH and the antineoplastic drugs cisplatin and oxaliplatin against cultured murine kidney epithelial cells revealed that the hydantoin complexes were far less nephrotoxic in vitro.

Discovery of Bicycloalkyl Urea Melanin Concentrating Hormone Receptor Antagonists: Orally Efficacious Antiobesity Therapeutics

Melanin concentrating hormone (MCH) is involved in regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis. Antagonists of the MCH receptor are expected to affect food intake and weight gain, making MCH-R1 an attractive target for obesity treatment. Herein, we report the discovery of a novel, orally active series of MCH-R1 antagonists that exhibit in vivo efficacy in rodent obesity models.

A hybrid between the antifungal azole eberconazole and the alkaloid onychine

The 9-imidazolylazafluorene 3, a hybrid between the antifungal azole eberconazole and the alkaloid onychine, was prepared from onychine in two steps. This product shows moderate antifungal activity, but, in contrast to other azoles, is not an inhibitor of ergosterol biosynthesis.

Cytotoxic activity of azulenequinones against human oral tumor cell lines

We investigated twenty-seven azulenequinone derivatives for their relative cytotoxicity against three human normal cell lines (HGF, HPC, HPLF) and four human tumor cell lines (HSG, HSC-2, HSC-3, HL-60). Parent 1,5-azulenequinone showed potent and some tumor-specific cytotoxicity. Halogenated derivatives of 1,5- and 1,7-azulenequinone showed potent cytotoxicity, but lower tumor-specific cytotoxicity. In contrast to other azulenequinones, amino derivatives such as 3-amino-1,5- and 1, 7-azulenequinones showed relatively lower cytotoxic activity. The 3-Phenoxy-1,5-azuleneqinone derivative showed higher cytotoxicity than the 3-phenoxy-1, 7-azulenequinone derivative. 1,5- and 1,7-Azulenequinones generally showed higher cytotoxicity, as compared with tropolones and azulene derivatives. 3- (3-Guaiazulenyl)-1, 5-azulenequinone [12] and 7-isopropyl-3- (4-methylanilino)-2-methyl- 1, 5-azulenequinone [24] showed a relatively higher TS value and induced apoptosis (internucleosomal DNA fragmentation, activation of caspases 3, 8 and 9) in HL-60 and HSC-2 cells, possibly via the activation of both mitochondria-independent (extrinsic) and -dependent (intrinsic) pathways. Western blot analysis showed that [24] slightly increased the intracellular concentration of pro-apoptotic proteins (Bad, Bax) in HSC-2 cells, whereas [12] was much less active. None of the twenty-seven azulenequinones showed anti-HIV activity. These results suggest [12] and [24] as possible candidates for future cancer chemotherapy.

Inhibition of LPS-stimulated NO production in mouse macrophage-like cells by azulenes

We investigated the effect of twenty-seven azulenes on nitric oxide (NO) production by mouse macrophage-like Raw 264.7 cells. No azulene derivative alone induced NO production by the Raw 264.7 cells, but inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated NO production to various extents. The ability of azulenes to inhibit NO generation by activated macrophages was generally increased when their cytotoxic activity declined. Western blot and RT-PCR analyses demonstrated that the most potent compound, 1,3-difluoroazulene [11], slightly inhibited the expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), but only at extremely high concentrations. ESR spectroscopy showed that [11] did not produce radical under alkaline condition, nor scavenged O2- (generated by HX-XOD reaction) or NO (generated by NOC-7). These data suggest that the inhibitory effect of [11] may be produced via a mechanism other than iNOS induction and a radical-mediated mechanism.

Discovery and SAR of potent, orally available and brain-penetrable 5,6-dihydro-4H-3-thia-1-aza-benzo[e]azulen- and 4,5-dihydro-6-oxa-3-thia-1-aza-benzo[e]azulen derivatives as neuropeptide Y Y5 receptor antagonists

Combination of structural elements from a potent Y5 antagonist (2) with thiazole fragments that exhibit weak Y5 affinities followed by lead optimisation led to the discovery of (5,6-dihydro-4H-3-thia-1-aza-benzo[e]azulen-2-yl)-piperidin-4-ylmethyl-amino and (4,5-dihydro-6-oxa-3-thia-1-aza-benzo[e]azulen-2-yl)-piperidin-4-ylmethyl-amino derivatives. Both classes of compounds are capable of delivering potent and selective orally and centrally bioavailable NPY Y5 receptor antagonists.

A facile synthesis of 1-ethoxy-4-cyano-5-ethoxycarbonyl-3H-azuleno[1,2-c]pyran-3-one, a selective 15-lipoxygenase inhibitor

A facile method to synthesize 1-ethoxy-4-cyano-5-ethoxycarbonyl-3H-azuleno[1,2-c]pyran-3-one, in yield of 92%, which showed selective inhibition effect on 15-lipoxygenase(soybean source) at IC(50)=24.2+/-2.7 microM while no inhibition effect was observed at greater than 300 microM on 5-lipoxygenase, lipid peroxidase, phospholipase A(2), protein kinase C, and cyclooxygenase.

Biological Activity of β-Dolabrin, γ-Thujaplicin, and 4-Acetyltropolone, Hinokitiol-Related Compounds

Beta-dolabrin, gamma-thujaplicin, and 4-acetyltropolone, the components of Aomori Hiba (Thujopsis dolabrata SIEB. et ZUCC. var. hondai MAKINO), showed antifungal activity on seven kinds of plant-pathogenic fungi, antibacterial activity against two kinds of Legionella sp., and in vitro cytotoxic effect on murine P388 lymphocytic leukemia cell line. Firstly, beta-dolabrin, gamma-thujaplicin and 4-acetyltropolone had clear antifungal activity against seven kinds of plant-pathogenic fungi tested. In particular, beta-dolabrin and 4-acetyltropolone showed strong antifungal activity against Pythium aphanidermatum IFO 32440, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 6.0 microg/ml. Secondly, beta-dolabrin, gamma-thujaplicin and 4-acetyltropolone had obvious growth-inhibitory effect on two kinds of Legionella sp. 4-Acetyltropolone especially had strong antibacterial activity toward Legionella pneumophila SG 1, and its MIC value was 3.1 microg/ml. These three compounds showed cytotoxic effects against murine P388 lymphocytic leukemia cell line in vitro. The cytotoxic effect of three compounds in the murine P388 lymphocytic leukemia cell line were clear when cell growth was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. At 48 h after treatment, gamma-thujaplicin and 4-acetyltropolone at 0.63 microg/ml inhibited cell growth of murine P388 lymphocytic leukemia by 85% and 65%, respectively. At the same time after treatment, the growth of the murine P388 lymphocytic leukemia cell line was completely suppressed by the three compounds at concentrations higher than 5.0 microg/ml. Among these three compounds, gamma-thujaplicin had the strongest cytotoxic activity on the growth of this tumor cell line in vitro.

Modification of Nociception and Morphine Tolerance by the Selective Opiate Receptor-Like Orphan Receptor Antagonist (–)-cis-1-Methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol (SB-612111)

(-)-cis-1-Methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol (SB-612111) is a novel human opiate receptor-like orphan receptor (ORL-1) antagonist that has high affinity for the clonal human ORL-1 receptor (hORL-1 K(i) = 0.33 nM), selectivity versus mu-(174-fold), delta-(6391-fold), and kappa (486-fold)-opioid receptors and is able to inhibit nociceptin signaling via hORL-1 in a whole cell gene reporter assay. SB-612111 has no measurable antinociceptive effects in vivo in the mouse hot-plate test after intravenous administration but is able to antagonize the antimorphine action of nociceptin [ED(50) = 0.69 mg/kg, 95% confidence limit (CL) = 0.34-1.21]. SB-62111 administration can also reverse tolerance to morphine in this model, established via repeated morphine administration. In addition, intravenous SB-612111 can antagonize nociceptin-induced thermal hyperalgesia in a dose-dependent manner (ED(50) = 0.62 mg/kg i.v., 95% CL = 0.22-1.89) and is effective per se at reversing thermal hyperalgesia in the rat carrageenan inflammatory pain model. These data show that an ORL-1 receptor antagonist may be a useful adjunct to chronic pain therapy with opioids and can be used to treat conditions in which thermal hyperalgesia is a significant component of the pain response.

Design and synthesis of highly constrained factor Xa inhibitors: amidine-substituted bis(benzoyl)--diazepan-2-ones and bis(benzylidene)-bis(gem-dimethyl)cycloketones

Two conformationally constrained templates have been designed to provide selective inhibitors of the coagulation cascade serine protease, Factor Xa (FXa). The most active inhibitor, 2,7-bis[(Z)-p-amidinobenzylidene)]-3,3,6,6-tetramethylcycloheptanone, exhibits a K(i) of 42 nM against FXa, with strong selectivity against thrombin (1000-fold), trypsin (300-fold) and plasmin (900-fold). With only two freely rotatable bonds, molecular modeling suggests that one amidine group is positioned into the S1 pocket, forming hydrogen bonds with the side chain of Asp189, similar to other amidine-based inhibitors, with the second benzamidine positioned into the S4 pocket in a position to form strong cation-pi bonding with the S4 aryl cage. We suggest that this interaction plays an important role in the specificity of these inhibitors against other serine proteases.

Decrease in survival threshold of quiescent colon carcinoma cells in the presence of a small molecule integrin antagonist

The role of adhesion molecules, such as alphav integrins, in the control of the survival of quiescent tumor cells is unclear. We used S 34961, a novel small molecule alphav integrin antagonist, to investigate the role of integrin-signaling in the survival of populations of quiescent human HT-29 and HCT 116 colon carcinoma cells. S 34961 at 1 microM induced detachment, but cells retained viability, existing as clusters. Nonligated beta-integrins may recruit and activate caspase-8 [J Cell Biol 155:459-470, 2001]. However, congruent with the absence of apoptosis, no activation of caspase-8 in these cells was detected after incubation with S 34961. A rapid (2 h) change in conformation of the N terminus of proapoptotic Bak was observed before detachment, together with a decrease in phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (2 h) and subsequent (8 h) decreases in phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 and Akt. Together, these results suggested that although treatment with S 34961 has no effect on survival per se, it may reduce the survival threshold of the tumor cells, with Bak in an activated state. Indeed, concomitant incubation of S 34961 with 10 microM U-0126 (a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor) was found to lead to apoptosis (at 24 h), whereas U-0126 alone had no effect. Together, these observations could guide the use of combination therapy with integrin antagonists in the clinic.

Guaiane sesquiterpenes from Amoora rohituka

The petroleum ether extract of the stem bark of Amoora rohituka afforded two novel guaiane-derived sesquiterpenoids, 6beta,7beta-epoxyguai-4-en-3-one (1) and 6beta,7beta-epoxy-4beta,5-dihydroxyguaiane (2). The structures of 1 and 2 were determined by extensive NMR and MS analyses and by comparison of their spectral data with related compounds. The relative stereochemistry of the asymmetric centers in 1 and 2, except at C-5 of 2, were determined by selective 1D-NOESY experiments.

Comparison of cardioprotective efficacy of two thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists

The purpose of the current study was to compare the efficacy of two structurally unrelated thromboxane A (TXA ) receptor antagonists, KT2-962 and daltroban (BM 13.505), in a dog model of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs were subjected to left circumflex coronary artery occlusion for 90 minutes followed by 5 hours of reperfusion. Vehicle, KT2-962 (10 mg/kg), or daltroban (10 mg/kg) were administered as intravenous boluses 10 minutes before coronary occlusion. Systemic hemodynamics were measured throughout the experiments and regional myocardial blood flow was measured by the radioactive microsphere technique. At the end of the reperfusion period, myocardial infarct size was quantified by staining with triphenyltetrazolium chloride. Neither KT2-962 nor daltroban significantly altered heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, or regional myocardial blood flow. The content of myeloperoxidase activity in the ischemic/reperfused tissue, an index of neutrophil infiltration, was not significantly different among the three treatment groups. However, administration of KT2-962, but not daltroban, significantly reduced the incidence of ventricular fibrillation during the ischemic period and significantly reduced myocardial infarct size expressed as a percentage of the risk region (approximately 40%). Subsequent in-vitro assays using electron spin resonance spectroscopy demonstrated that KT2-962 inhibited the formation of hydroxyl radicals, whereas daltroban had no effect. These results suggest that the beneficial effects of KT2-962 may be due to its direct free radical scavenging properties rather than its ability to block TXA receptors.(2) (2) (2)

In vitro co-metabolism of ethanol and cyclic ketones

The paper presents the results of studies concerning the effects of four cyclic ketones, i.e. cyclopentanone (Pen), cyclohexanone (Hex), cycloheptanone (Hep) and cyclooctanone (Oct) on metabolism of ethanol (EtOH) in vitro. The fraction S9 (supernatant with the removed mitochondria) was used obtained from homogenized rat livers. An increase in reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) was examined spectrophotometrically (at 340 nm) while the substrate disappearance and metabolite increase were determined using head-space gas chromatography. The addition of cyclic ketones statistically significantly affected a decrease in the A(340) level, particularly during co-metabolism of EtOH and Hex. The EtOH loss was significantly higher (than the loss observed during metabolism of EtOH alone) only in EtOH-Hex and EtOH-Hep systems, which may be explained by the fact that reoxidation of NADH to NAD+ is quicker in these systems than dissociation of the alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)-NADH complex.

Cardiovascular effects of orally administered HNS-32, an originally synthesized azulene-1-carboxamidine derivative, assessed in the in vivo rat model

HNS-32, an azulene-1-carboxamidine derivative, is an originally synthesized antiarrhythmic compound. Its cardiovascular effects after oral administration (1-10 mg/kg) were assessed using the pentobarbital-anesthetized in vivo rat model in comparison with those of verapamil (3 mg/kg, p.o.). Verapamil decreased the heart rate and mean blood pressure and prolonged the PR interval without changing the QRS width (n = 6). Similar results were observed for HNS-32 except that the QRS width was prolonged by the highest dose and the effects occurred slowly and lasted longer. These results suggest that HNS-32 is an orally active slowly-acting calcium plus sodium channel blocker.

Synthesis of new azulene derivatives and study of their effect on lipid peroxidation and lipoxygenase activity

The relationship between free radicals and acute or chronic inflammation has been well established. We have previously reported the significant antioxidant activity of the natural azulene derivatives chamazulene and guaiazulene. Furthermore, some synthetic azulene analogues have been found to possess anti-inflammatory activity. In this investigation we report the synthesis of five 3-alkyl or 3-(hydroxy)alkylazulene-1-carboxylic acids and esters, from tropolone, via the corresponding furanone. The synthesised compounds were tested for their effect on the peroxidation of rat hepatic microsomal membrane lipids, applying the 2-thiobarbituric acid test. Their anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in vitro by the offered inhibition of soybean lipoxygenase. All the tested molecules were found to inhibit lipid peroxidation by 100% at 1 mM. They were also found to considerably inhibit lipoxygenase activity. The above results are discussed in relation to the structure and physicochemical properties of the examined azulene derivatives.

Novel selective PDE4 inhibitors. 3. In vivo antiinflammatory activity of a new series of N-substituted cis-tetra- and cis-hexahydrophthalazinones

The synthesis and biological activities of a series of N-substituted cis-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexa- and cis-4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro-2H-phthalazin-1-ones are described. It was found that compounds bearing a cycloalkyl group at the 2-position exhibit the highest PDE4 inhibitory activities (pIC(50) = 8.6-9.4). The N-cycloheptyl- and N-adamantanyltetrahydrophthalazinones (7h, 8, 10, 11) show high in vivo antiinflammatory activities after oral application. Additionally, some phthalazinones were found to exhibit potent suppression of LPS-induced TNFalpha release and show moderate potency against fMLP-stimulated production of ROS.

Novel potent antagonists of human neuropeptide Y-Y5 receptor. Part 4: tetrahydrodiazabenzazulene derivatives

Novel tetrahydrodiazabenzazulene derivatives, designed from the lead compound 1 discovered by screening of our in-house chemical library, were prepared and found to be potent neuropeptide Y-Y5 (NPY-Y5) receptor antagonists. The structure-activity relationships are described. Compounds 7 (FR240662) and 16 (FR252384) were especially attractive owing to their high affinities for the NPY-Y5 receptors, oral absorption and permeability to brain.