Precise cuts for tailoring chromene-phenyl COX inhibitors with Ligand Designer

Cyclooxygenases 1 and 2 (COX-1/2) are enzymes renowned for inducing inflammatory responses through the production of prostaglandins. Thus, the development of COX inhibitors has been a promising approach for identifying compounds with anti-inflammatory potential. In this study, we designed 27 new compounds (1-27) based on the structure of a previously known COX inhibitor, using the Ligand Designer tool. Our aim was to improve the affinity of the compounds with COX enzymes by inducing interactions with residue Arg120 while retaining the good π-π stacking interactions of the chromene-phenyl scaffold. Through screening based on ligand-binding free energy defined by molecular docking simulations and MM/GBSA technique, compounds 9 and 10 were identified as having the highest ability to inhibit COX proteins. The binding affinities of the two compounds with COX-1/2 were superior to those of the original NAI10 compound and the reference drug indomethacin. Our virtual screening suggests that compounds 9 and 10 have a strong ability to inhibit COX-1/2 and thus could be promising candidates for further anti-inflammatory drug studies. In essence, our study underscores the pivotal role of the N-aryl iminocoumarin scaffold in shaping the future landscape of novel anti-inflammatory drug development.

Adjunctive canakinumab reduces peripheral inflammation markers and improves positive symptoms in people with schizophrenia and inflammation: A randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

Clinical trials of anti-inflammatories in schizophrenia do not show clear and replicable benefits, possibly because patients were not recruited based on elevated inflammation status. Interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β) mRNA and protein levels are increased in serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and brain of some chronically ill patients with schizophrenia, first episode psychosis, and clinical high-risk individuals. Canakinumab, an approved anti-IL-1β monoclonal antibody, interferes with the bioactivity of IL-1β and interrupts downstream signaling. However, the extent to which canakinumab reduces peripheral inflammation markers, such as, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and symptom severity in schizophrenia patients with inflammation is unknown.

TRIAL DESIGN

We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel groups, 8-week trial of canakinumab in chronically ill patients with schizophrenia who had elevated peripheral inflammation.

METHODS

Twenty-seven patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and elevated peripheral inflammation markers (IL-1β, IL-6, hsCRP and/or neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio: NLR) were randomized to a one-time, subcutaneous injection of canakinumab (150 mg) or placebo (normal saline) as an adjunctive antipsychotic treatment. Peripheral blood hsCRP, NLR, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 levels were measured at baseline (pre injection) and at 1-, 4- and 8-weeks post injection. Symptom severity was assessed at baseline and 4- and 8-weeks post injection.

RESULTS

Canakinumab significantly reduced peripheral hsCRP over time, F(3, 75) = 5.16, p = 0.003. Significant hsCRP reductions relative to baseline were detected only in the canakinumab group at weeks 1, 4 and 8 (p's = 0.0003, 0.000002, and 0.004, respectively). There were no significant hsCRP changes in the placebo group. Positive symptom severity scores were significantly reduced at week 8 (p = 0.02) in the canakinumab group and week 4 (p = 0.02) in the placebo group. The change in CRP between week 8 and baseline (b = 1.9, p = 0.0002) and between week 4 and baseline (b = 6.0, p = 0.001) were highly significant predictors of week 8 change in PANSS Positive Symptom severity scores. There were no significant changes in negative symptoms, general psychopathology or cognition in either group. Canakinumab was well tolerated and only 7 % discontinued.

CONCLUSIONS

Canakinumab quickly reduces peripheral hsCRP serum levels in patients with schizophrenia and inflammation; after 8 weeks of canakinumab treatment, the reductions in hsCRP are related to reduced positive symptom severity. Future studies should consider increased doses or longer-term treatment to confirm the potential benefits of adjunctive canakinumab in schizophrenia. Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number: ACTRN12615000635561.

Development of a 3D disposable device for the electrochemical determination of diclofenac in different matrices

In this work, the development of a disposable electrochemical device (US$ 0.02 per electrode) using a 3D printed support (3Ds) of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) insulating filament with a composite material (CM) based on graphite and nail polish, immobilized on the support surface, was described for the electrochemical determination of diclofenac (DCF). The device was compared to the commercial glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and showed superior electroanalytical performance with approximately 1.8-fold higher current density. Additionally, an amperometric method for DCF determination in tap water, synthetic urine, and pharmaceutical formulation samples with the proposed electrode, using a flow injection analysis (FIA-AD) system, was developed. The optimized method presented excellent detectability (LOD = 0.47 µmol L^-1), with excellent precision and accuracy (relative standard deviation < 5.6%) and percent recovery from spiked samples ranging from 89 to 106%. In addition, the sensor showed optimal analytical frequency with approximately 108 injections per hour, which demonstrates the potential of this system using the proposed disposable electrode for implementation in routine analysis and quality control with good selectivity and sensitivity.

Repurposing non-oncology small-molecule drugs to improve cancer therapy: Current situation and future directions

Drug repurposing or repositioning has been well-known to refer to the therapeutic applications of a drug for another indication other than it was originally approved for. Repurposing non-oncology small-molecule drugs has been increasingly becoming an attractive approach to improve cancer therapy, with potentially lower overall costs and shorter timelines. Several non-oncology drugs approved by FDA have been recently reported to treat different types of human cancers, with the aid of some new emerging technologies, such as omics sequencing and artificial intelligence to overcome the bottleneck of drug repurposing. Therefore, in this review, we focus on summarizing the therapeutic potential of non-oncology drugs, including cardiovascular drugs, microbiological drugs, small-molecule antibiotics, anti-viral drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-neurodegenerative drugs, antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, and other drugs in human cancers. We also discuss their novel potential targets and relevant signaling pathways of these old non-oncology drugs in cancer therapies. Taken together, these inspiring findings will shed new light on repurposing more non-oncology small-molecule drugs with their intricate molecular mechanisms for future cancer drug discovery.

IKKβ mediates homeostatic function in inflammation via competitively phosphorylating AMPK and IκBα

Inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit beta (IKKβ) is one of important kinases in inflammation to phosphorylate inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B (IκBα) and then activate nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB). Inhibition of IKKβ has been a therapeutic strategy for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Here we report that IKKβ is constitutively activated in healthy donors and healthy Ikkβ^C46A (cysteine 46 mutated to alanine) knock-in mice although they possess intensive IKKβ–IκBα–NF-κB signaling activation. These indicate that IKKβ activation probably plays homeostatic role instead of causing inflammation. Compared to Ikkβ^WT littermates, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) could induce high mortality rate in Ikkβ^C46A mice which is correlated to breaking the homeostasis by intensively activating p-IκBα–NF-κB signaling and inhibiting phosphorylation of 5ʹ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) expression. We then demonstrated that IKKβ kinase domain (KD) phosphorylates AMPKα1 via interacting with residues Thr183, Ser184, and Thr388, while IKKβ helix–loop–helix motifs is essential to phosphorylate IκBα according to the previous reports. Kinase assay further demonstrated that IKKβ simultaneously catalyzes phosphorylation of AMPK and IκBα to mediate homeostasis. Accordingly, activation of AMPK rather than inhibition of IKKβ could substantially rescue LPS-induced mortality in Ikkβ^C46A mice by rebuilding the homeostasis. We conclude that IKKβ activates AMPK to restrict inflammation and IKKβ mediates homeostatic function in inflammation via competitively phosphorylating AMPK and IκBα.

Anti-cancer effects of Tranilast: An update

Tranilast (TRN) or (N-3,4 -dimethoxy cinnamoyl]-anthranilic acid) is an analog of a tryptophan metabolite and is identified mainly as an anti-allergic agent with limited side effects. The anti-cancer effects of tranilast either alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs have been evidenced in several pre-clinical studies. The main mechanism of action of tranilast includes targeting and modulation of various signaling and immune regulatory pathways including Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), MAP-Kinase (MAPK), Protein kinase B (‎Akt/PKB), c-Jun N-terminal kinase, modulation of cancer stem cells, etc. Most of these pathways are involved in tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis and it is postulated that tranilast, with its low toxicity profile and high anti-carcinogenic abilities, can serve as a potential anti-tumorigenic agent. The main aim of this review is to provide updated information on the anti-cancer effects of tranilast and its significance as a therapeutic agent.

Behavioral and physiological responses of Daphnia magna to salicylic acid

Salicylic acid (SA), a metabolite of acetylsalicylic acid is a monohydroxybenzoic acid a common non-steroidal analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) frequently detected in various aquatic ecosystems at concentrations up to 19.50 μg L^-1 in surface waters near livestock farms and 59.6 μg L^-1 in wastewaters. Little is known on the effects of short-term exposure of freshwater crustaceans to salicylic acid. Therefore, the aim of our study was to determine the effects of SA at concentrations of 5 μg L^-1, 500 μg L^-1, 5 mg L^-1, 50 mg L^-1 and 500 mg L^-1 on the behavior (swimming speed, swimming height, distance travelled) and physiological endpoints (heart rate, mandible movement) of Daphnia magna exposed for 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. The results showed that SA inhibited the swimming speed, swimming height and distance travelled, heart rate and mandible movement at 5 mg L^-1, 50 mg L^-1 and 500 mg L^-1 when compared to the control. On the other hand, SA at 5 μg L^-1 and 500 μg L^-1 transiently increased swimming speed and distance travelled after 24 h of the exposure, except for swimming height. Behavioral and physiological disturbances were observed much earlier than lethality. Our study showed SA at environmental levels may be an ecotoxicological agent imparing behavior and physiology of freshwater crustaceans.

Small molecule somatostatin receptor subtype 4 (sst4) agonists are novel anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug candidates

We provided strong proof of concept evidence that somatostatin mediates potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions via its receptor subtype 4 (sst₄) located both at the periphery and the central nervous system. Therefore, sst₄ agonists are promising novel drug candidates for neuropathic pain and neurogenic inflammation, but rational drug design was not possible due to the lack of knowledge about its 3-dimensional structure. We modeled the sst₄ receptor structure, described its agonist binding properties, and characterized the binding of our novel small molecule sst₄ agonists (4-phenetylamino-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives) using an in silico platform. In addition to the in silico binding data, somatostatin displacement by Compound 1 was demonstrated in the competitive binding assay on sst₄-expressing cells. In vivo effects were investigated in rat models of neurogenic inflammation and chronic traumatic neuropathic pain. We defined high- and low-affinity binding pockets of sst₄ for our ligands, binding of the highest affinity compounds were similar to that of the reference ligand J-2156. We showed potent G-protein activation with the highest potency of 10 nM EC₅₀ value and highest efficacy of 342%. Oral administration of 100 μg/kg of 5 compounds significantly inhibited acute neurogenic plasma protein extravasation in the paw skin by 40-60%, one candidate abolished and 3 others diminished sciatic nerve-ligation induced neuropathic hyperalgesia by 28-62%. The in silico predictions on sst₄-ligands were tested in biological systems. Low oral dose of our novel agonists inhibit neurogenic inflammation and neuropathic pain, which opens promising drug developmental perspectives for these unmet medical need conditions.

Monitoring diclofenac adsorption by organophilic alkylpyridinium bentonites

Organoclays have been applied as efficient adsorbents for pharmaceutical pollutants from aqueous solution. In this work, dodecylpyridinium chloride (C₁₂pyCl) and hexadecylpyridinium chloride (C₁₆pyCl) cationic surfactants were used for the preparation of organobentonites destined for diclofenac sodium (DFNa) adsorption, an anionic drug widely detected in wastewater. The organofunctionalization of the clay samples was performed under microwave irradiation at 50 °C for 5 min with surfactant amounts of 100% and 200% in relation to the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the pristine bentonite. The amount of incorporated ammonium salts based on CHN elemental analysis was higher for all samples prepared with 200% of the CEC. The basal spacings of the organoclays ranged from 1.54 to 2.13 nm, indicating the entrance of organic cations into the interlayer spacing of the clay samples, and the spacing depended on the size of the alkyl organic chain. The hydrophobic character of the organobentonites was verified by thermogravimetry and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The adsorption isotherms showed that the drug capacity adsorption was influenced by the amount of surfactant incorporated into the bentonite, the packing density and the arrangement of the surfactants in the interlayer spacing. Zeta potential measurements of the organobentonites and FTIR analysis after drug adsorption suggested that electrostatic and nonelectrostatic interactions contributed to the mechanism of adsorption.

Randomized, double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Compare the Efficacy of Combination of Lidocaine with ketorolac or triamcinolone versus Lidocaine Alone for Soft Tissue Injuries

Background

Corticosteroid and Ketorolac tromethamine is a pain reducing.

Objective

The primary objective was pain intensity scores (VAS) in 10, 30, 60 min, 2, 6 h, 1, and 7 days.

Method

120 patients were randomized. The placebo group (normal saline) and experimental groups (ketorolac 30 mg, 60 mg, triamcinolone 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg, respectively) were compared.

Result

VAS at 60 min, 2, 6 h, 1 and 7 days was significantly different (P < 0.05). Ketorolac 30 mg, 60 mg, and triamcinolone 10 mg shown non inferiority to triamcinolone 40 mg.

Conclusions

ketorolac was considered equal to triamcinolone.

Transcriptomic profiling of Hydra magnipapillata after exposure to naproxen

The extensive use in humans and animals of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increases their possible impact on aquatic organisms. In the present study, we investigated acute toxicity, morphological responses, and potential physiological and metabolic impacts of naproxen exposure on Hydra magnipapillata. The median lethal concentrations (LC₅₀) of naproxen in H. magnipapillata were 51.999 mg/L, 44.935 mg/L, and 42.500 mg/L after exposure for 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. Morphological observation of the exposed Hydra showed that 40 mg/L naproxen stimulated the contraction of body column and tentacles after 24 h. A KEGG pathway analysis of the genes differentially expressed in the Hydra after exposure to naproxen for 6, 24, or 48 h demonstrated various cellular and metabolic effects, including protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, Wnt signaling, and tryptophan metabolism. These results suggest that exposure to naproxen affects the genetic material, inflammatory processes, and metabolic processes of aquatic organisms.

Topical bromfenac transiently delays axotomy-induced retinal ganglion cell loss

Optic nerve axotomy in rodents allows detailed studies of the effect of different treatments on the survival of central nervous system neurons, the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Here we have analyzed the neuroprotective effect of topical bromfenac treatment, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in clinic to ameliorate post-operative inflammation, on axotomized rat RGCs. The left optic nerve of adult rats was subjected to optic nerve crush (ONC). Half of the rats were treated with a topical instillation of saline. On the other half, immediately after the surgery, 2 drops of bromfenac (0.09% Yellox; Bausch & Lomb) were instilled, and then every 12 h until analysis. Retinas in both groups were dissected 3, 5, 7, 9 and 14 days after ONC (n = 4-8/time point/group). Toxicity of bromfenac was assessed in intact retinas treated during 14 days (n = 6). Intact untreated retinas were used as control of the RGC population. RGCs were identified by Brn3a immunodetection and automatically quantified. Our results show that bromfenac does not cause RGC loss in intact retinas. In the injured groups, the number of RGCs at 7, 9 and 14 days after the lesion was significantly higher in treated vs. untreated retinas. To our knowledge this is the first report showing that a topical treatment with a NSAIDs delays axotomy-induced RGC loss and indicates that treatment with NSAIDs could be used as conjunctive therapy in diseases that proceed with optic nerve damage.

Bioequivalence of 2 Naproxen Sodium Tablet Formulations in Healthy Male and Female Volunteers

BACKGROUND

Naproxen is an established, effective treatment for pain management in acute musculoskeletal disorders and traumatic sports injuries. Reckitt Benckiser Health Limited have developed a naproxen sodium tablet with the same pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties as existing marketed naproxen products with the intention of increasing the number of naproxen products available for prescribers and pharmacies.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess comparative bioavailability between a test medicinal product developed by Reckitt Benckiser Health Limited (RB, 103-105 Bath Rd, Slough, SL1 3UH, United Kingdom; RB naproxen sodium 220 mg tablets), and a reference medicinal product, Aleve naproxen sodium 220 mg (Bayer B.V., Energieweg 1, 3641 RT Mijdrecht, Netherlands), in the fasted state.

METHODS

This was a randomized, single-dose, 2-way crossover, open-label, comparative bioavailability, pharmacokinetic study in 18 healthy male and female volunteers with a 5- to 8-day washout permitted between doses (based on the anticipated minimum washout period for naproxen determined from the known terminal elimination half-life of up to 17 hours). Blood samples were taken periodically over a 72-hour period following dosing and analyzed for plasma naproxen concentration using a validated LC-MS method. Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was used to derive pharmacokinetic parameters for naproxen; safety and tolerability were evaluated throughout the study.

RESULTS

Following a single-dose administration of naproxen sodium tablets (2 × 220 mg), the Cmax and AUC0-t (geometric least squares mean) for the test product was 65.88 µg/mL and 893.37 h * µg/mL, respectively; and for the reference product was 64.59 µg/mL and 890.60 h * µg/mL. The geometric least squares mean test/reference ratio 90% CI for both Cmax (93.98-110.70) and AUC0-t (98.04-102.63) was contained entirely within the predefined 80.00% to 125.00% lower and upper limits; additionally, there was no statistically significant difference in Tmax (P = 0.9878) following fasted administration of the test and reference product. There was 1 treatment-emergent adverse event reported during the study; there were no serious adverse events, no suspected unexpected serious adverse events, and no clinically significant changes in laboratory safety, vital signs, or 12-lead ECG measurements reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This single-dose study found that the test product (RB naproxen sodium tablets) and reference product (Aleve naproxen sodium tablets) met the regulatory criteria for bioequivalence in these fasted male and female volunteers; both test and reference products were found to be safe and well tolerated.

Tracing the dynamic expression of the Nfκb2 gene during inflammatory processes by in vivo bioluminescence imaging in transgenic mice

Nfκb2(p52/p100) plays essential roles in many chronic inflammatory diseases. Tracing the dynamic expression of Nfκb2 during different biological processes in vivo can provide valuable clues to understand the biological functions of this gene and develop anti-inflammatory drugs. In this study, B6-Tg(Nfκb2-luc)^Mlit transgenic mouse line, a mouse model in which the expression of firefly luciferase gene is under the control of a 14.6-kb mouse Nfκb2 promoter, was generated to monitor the expression of p52/p100 in vivo. Bioluminescence imaging was used for tracking the luciferase signal in living mice in a variety of inflammatory processes, including LPS-induced sepsis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The data of in vivo bioluminescence imaging in this mouse model showed that luciferase activity coincided with the endogenous p52/p100 expression. Moreover, dexamethasone or aspirin, two routine anti-inflammatory drugs, could decrease the high-level expression of luciferase induced by LPS. Overall, our results suggest that the B6-Tg(Nfκb2-luc)^Mlit mice represent a valuable reporter mouse model not only to monitor the expression of p52/p100 in physiological or pathological processes but also to evaluate the effects of various anti-inflammatory drug treatments in vivo.

Anti-inflammatory action of 2-carbomethoxy-2,3-epoxy-3-prenyl-1,4-naphthoquinone (CMEP-NQ) suppresses both the MyD88-dependent and TRIF-dependent pathways of TLR4 signaling in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The roots of Rubia cordifolia L. have been widely used as a traditional herbal medicine in Northeast Asia for treating inflammatory diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To elucidate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of 2-carbomethoxy-2,3-epoxy-3- prenyl-1,4-naphthoquinone (CMEP-NQ), purified from the roots of R. cordifolia L. as the major anti-inflammatory component, in LPS-treated RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory activity of CMEP-NQ was investigated in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells by measuring the levels of NO, PGE₂, and cytokines (IL1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in the culture supernatants and the TLR4-mediated intracellular events including association of MyD88 with IRAK1, activation of IRAK1, TAK1, MAPKs, NF-κB/AP-1, and IRF3, and generation of ROS.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of RAW264.7 cells with CMEP-NQ reduced LPS-induced production of NO and PGE₂ by suppressing iNOS and COX-2 gene expression. CMEP-NQ also reduced the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α by down-regulating mRNA levels. Under these conditions, TLR4-mediated MyD88-dependent events were inhibited by CMEP-NQ, including the association of MyD88 with IRAK1, phosphorylation of IRAK1, TAK1, and MAPKs (ERK, JNK and p38 MAPK), and activation of NF-κB and AP-1. As TRIF-dependent events of TLR4 signaling, phosphorylation of IRF3 and induction of iNOS protein expression were also inhibited by CMEP-NQ. However, the binding of FITC-conjugated LPS to cell surface TLR4 was not affected by CMEP-NQ. Following LPS stimulation, intracellular ROS production was first detected by DCFH-DA staining at 1h; then it continuously increased until 16h. Although CMEP-NQ failed to exhibit DPPH radical- or ABTS radical-scavenging activity in vitro, LPS-induced ROS production in RAW264.7 cells was more efficiently blocked by CMEP-NQ than by NAC.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that the suppressive effect of CMEP-NQ on LPS-induced inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 cells was mainly exerted via its inhibition of TLR4-mediated proximal events, such as MyD88-dependent NF-κB/AP-1 activation and ROS production, and TRIF-dependent IRF3 activation.

Analytical techniques for serratiopeptidase: A review

A review is presented on different analytical techniques used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of serratiopeptidase, a proteolytic enzyme, which has recently gained importance as an anti-inflammatory agent. Efforts have been made to collate all the relevant references to the extent possible. The review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the cited analytical techniques, which will help to give insights into the methods used for estimation of serratiopeptidase as such, from clinical isolates and from its dosage forms. The review highlights the basic as well as advanced techniques performed for estimating serratiopeptidase. The techniques illustrated here have been demonstrated to be useful for qualitative and quantitative determination of serratiopeptidase and may find application in analyzing other related proteases.

Solvatochromism and linear solvation energy relationship of the kinase inhibitor SKF86002

We studied the spectroscopic characteristics of SKF86002, an anti-inflammatory and tyrosine kinase inhibitor drug candidate. Two conformers SKF86002A and SKF86002B are separated by energy barriers of 19.68kJ·mol(-1) and 6.65kJ·mol(-1) due to H-bonds, and produce the three major UV-Vis absorption bands at 325nm, 260nm and 210nm in cyclohexane solutions. This environment-sensitive fluorophore exhibited emission in the 400-500nm range with a marked response to changes in environment polarity. By using twenty-two solvents for the solvatochromism study, it was noticed that solvent polarity, represented by dielectric constant, was well correlated with the emission wavelength maxima of SKF86002. Thus, the SKF86002 fluorescence peak red shifted in aprotic solvents from 397.5nm in cyclohexane to 436nm in DMSO. While the emission maximum in hydrogen donating solvents ranged from 420nm in t-butanol to 446nm in N-methylformamide. Employing Lippert-Mataga, Bakhshiev and Kawski models, we found that one linear correlation provided a satisfactory description of polarity effect of 18 solvents on the spectral changes of SKF86002 with R(2) values 0.78, 0.80 and 0.80, respectively. Additionally, the multicomponent linear regression analysis of Kamlet-Taft (R(2)=0.94) revealed that solvent acidity, basicity and polarity accounted for 31%, 24% and 45% of solvent effects on SKF86002 emission, respectively. While Catalán correlation (R(2)=0.92) revealed that solvatochromic change of SKF86002 emission was attributed to changes in solvent dipolarity (71%), solvent polarity (12%), solvent acidity (11%) and solvent basicity (6%). Plot of Reichardt transition energies and emission energies of SKF86002 in 18 solvents showed also a linear correlation with R(2)=0.90. The dipole moment difference between excited and ground state was calculated to be 3.4-3.5debye.

Side effect profile similarities shared between antidepressants and immune-modulators reveal potential novel targets for treating major depressive disorders

Background

Side effects, or the adverse effects of drugs, contain important clinical phenotypic information that may be useful in predicting novel or unknown targets of a drug. It has been suggested that drugs with similar side-effect profiles may share common targets. The diagnostic class, Major Depressive Disorder, is increasingly viewed as being comprised of multiple depression subtypes with different biological root causes. One ‘type’ of depression generating substantial interest today focuses on patients with high levels of inflammatory burden, indicated by elevated levels of C-reactive proteins (CRP) and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 6 (IL-6). It has been suggested that drugs targeting the immune system may have beneficial effect on this subtype of depressed patients, and several studies are underway to test this hypothesis directly. However, patients have been treated with both anti-inflammatory and antidepressant compounds for decades. It may be possible to exploit similarities in clinical readouts to better understand the antidepressant effects of immune-related drugs.

Methods

Here we explore the space of approved drugs by comparing the drug side effect profiles of known antidepressants and drugs targeting the immune system, and further examine the findings by comparing the human cell line expression profiles induced by them with those induced by antidepressants.

Results

We found 7 immune-modulators and 14 anti-inflammatory drugs sharing significant side effect profile similarities with antidepressants. Five of the 7 immune modulators share most similar side effect profiles with antidepressants that modulate dopamine release and/or uptake. In addition, the immunosuppressant rapamycin and the glucocorticoid alclometasone induces transcriptional changes similar to multiple antidepressants.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that some antidepressants and some immune-related drugs may affect common molecular pathways. Our findings support the idea that certain medications aimed at the immune system may be helpful in relieving depressive symptoms, and suggest that it may be of value to test immune-modulators for antidepressant-like activity in future proof-of-concept studies.

Prophylaxis of pancreatitis with intravenous ketoprofen in a consecutive population of ERCP patients: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Background Acute pancreatitis is the most common complication after ERCP, occurring in about 4 % of the procedures. Only the placement of pancreatic duct prosthesis and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have shown benefit in the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Although the benefit of rectal administration of indomethacin or diclofenac is recommended by some studies and society guidelines especially in a selected group of high-risk patients, there is so far, no standardization of time or route of NSAID administration. The aim of the current study is to investigate the role of an intravenous NSAID administered before the procedure for PEP prevention. Methods In this randomized double-blind clinical trial, all consecutive patients who underwent ERCP were randomized to receive saline infusion with ketoprofen or saline, immediately before the procedure. Results A total of 477 patients were enrolled and completed follow-up. The majority of patients (72.1 %) had bile duct stones, and only 1.5 % had a clinical suspicion of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction. PEP developed in 5 of 253 (2 %) patients in the placebo group and in 5 of 224 (2.2 %) patients in the ketoprofen group (p = 1.). Conclusions Intravenous administration of ketoprofen immediately prior to ERCP did not result in reduction in PEP in a general population of ERCP patients.

Widespread occurrence and seasonal variation of pharmaceuticals in surface waters and municipal wastewater treatment plants in central Finland

The presence of five selected pharmaceuticals, consisting of four anti-inflammatory drugs, diclofenac, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, and an antiepileptic drug carbamazepine, was determined at four municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and in the receiving waterway in central Finland. The samples were taken from influents and effluents of the WWTPs and from surface water of six locations along the water way, including northern Lake Päijänne. In addition, seasonal variation in the area was determined by comparing the concentrations in the winter and summer. The samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in the multiple reaction monitoring mode. The concentrations in the influents and effluents ranged from hundreds of nanogram per liter to microgram per liter while ranged from tens of nanogram per liter in northern parts of the waterway to hundreds of nanogram per liter in northern Lake Päijänne near the city area. In addition, the concentrations were higher in the winter compared to summer time in surface water due to decreased temperature and solar irradiation. On the other hand, higher concentrations of ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen were found in summer at the WWTPs, possibly due to seasonal variations in consumption. In conclusion, there are considerable amounts of pharmaceuticals not only in influents and effluents of the WWTPs but also in lake water along the waterway and in northern Lake Päijänne.

Biotinylated heptapeptides substituted with a D-amino acid as platelet-activating factor inhibitors

Platelet-activating factor (PAF), a potent lipid mediator, is implicated in many inflammatory diseases, and therefore may serve as a direct target for anti-inflammatory drugs. We previously reported that synthetic biotinylated peptides having a Tyr-Lys-Asp-Gly sequence markedly inhibit PAF-induced inflammation by direct binding, and that two synthetic fluorescence-labelled heptapeptides (Lys-Trp-Tyr-Lys-Asp-Gly-Asp and D-Lys-Trp-Tyr-Lys-Asp-Gly-Asp) with high stability in plasma specifically bind to PAF-like lipids (oxidized- and lyso-phosphatidylchoine). In this study, synthetic heptapeptides (Lys-Trp-Tyr-Lys-Asp-Gly-Asp) coupled to a biotin molecule through the N-terminal amino group and ε-amino group of N-terminus Lys, (Btn)KP6 and K(Btn)P6, respectively, and their biotinylated peptides substituted with D-Lys at the N-terminus, (Btn)dKP6 and dK(Btn)P6, respectively, were investigated for their effects on PAF-induced inflammation. In the experiments using a rat model of hind paw oedema, (Btn)KP6, K(Btn)P6, (Btn)dKP6, and dK(Btn)P6 significantly inhibited PAF-induced paw oedema, with the highest inhibitory effect exhibited by dK(Btn)P6. The inhibitory effect of D-Tyr-D-Lys-D-Asp-Gly tetrapeptide on PAF-induced paw oedema was much lower than that of Tyr-Lys-Asp-Gly tetrapeptide. In the experiments using tryptophan fluorescence spectroscopy, (Btn)KP6, K(Btn)P6, (Btn)dKP6, and dK(Btn)P6 bound to PAF dose-dependently, with dK(Btn)P6 showing the strongest binding affinity, indicating that its affinity appears to be closely correlated with its inhibitory effect on PAF-induced inflammation. These results suggest that direct binding of (Btn)KP6, K(Btn)P6, (Btn)dKP6, and dK(Btn)P6 to PAF can lead to marked inhibition of PAF-induced inflammation, and these agents, particularly dK(Btn)P6, may be useful as anti-inflammatory drugs targeting PAF with high stability in plasma.

Fibrin-genipin annulus fibrosus sealant as a delivery system for anti-TNFα drug

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Intervertebral discs (IVDs) are attractive targets for local drug delivery because they are avascular structures with limited transport. Painful IVDs are in a chronic inflammatory state. Although anti-inflammatories show poor performance in clinical trials, their efficacy treating IVD cells suggests that sustained, local drug delivery directly to painful IVDs may be beneficial.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine if genipin cross-linked fibrin (FibGen) with collagen Type I hollow spheres (CHS) can serve as a drug-delivery carrier for infliximab, the anti-tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) drug. Infliximab was chosen as a model drug because of the known role of TNFα in increasing downstream production of several pro-inflammatory cytokines and pain mediators. Genipin cross-linked fibrin was used as drug carrier because it is adhesive, injectable, and slowly degrading hydrogel with the potential to seal annulus fibrosus (AF) defects. CHS allow simple and nondamaging drug loading and could act as a drug reservoir to improve sustained delivery.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

This is a study of biomaterials and human AF cell culture to determine drug release kinetics and efficacy.

METHODS

Infliximab was delivered at low and high concentrations using FibGen with and without CHS. Gels were analyzed for structure, drug release kinetics, and efficacy treating human AF cells after release.

RESULTS

Fibrin showed rapid infliximab drug release but degraded quickly. CHS alone showed a sustained release profile, but the small spheres may not remain in a degenerated IVD with fissures. Genipin cross-linked fibrin showed steady and low levels of infliximab release that was increased when loaded with higher drug concentrations. Infliximab was bound in CHS when delivered within FibGen and was only released after enzymatic degradation. The infliximab released over 20 days retained its bioactivity as confirmed by the sustained reduction of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα concentrations produced by AF cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct mixing of infliximab into FibGen was the simplest drug-loading protocol capable of sustained release. Results show feasibility of using drug-loaded FibGen for delivery of infliximab and, in the context with the literature, show potential to seal AF defects and partially restore IVD biomechanics. Future investigations are required to determine if drug-loaded FibGen can effectively deliver drugs, seal AF defects, and promote IVD repair or prevent further IVD degeneration in vivo.

Cryptoporus volvatus polysaccharides attenuate LPS-induced expression of pro-inflammatory factors via the TLR2 signaling pathway in human alveolar epithelial cells

CONTEXT

Cryptoporus volvatus (Peck) Hubb grows wild in China, and its fruiting bodies have been used traditionally to treat asthma and bronchitis.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluates the anti-inflammatory effect of Cryptoporus polysaccharides (CP) extracted from fruiting bodies of C. volvatus on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pro-inflammatory factors and the signaling pathways involved in human alveolar epithelial cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To evaluate the effects of CP on LPS-induced pro-inflammatory factors, A549 cells were pre-incubated with CP 1, 10, and 100 μg/ml for 1 h and then stimulated with LPS 10 μg/ml for 24 h. The expression of pro-inflammatory factors monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), and phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and NF-κB p65 were measured by q-PCR, ELISA, and western blotting.

RESULTS

CP decreased LPS-induced mRNA expression of MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β (IC50 = 83.3, 85.2, and 91.6 μg/ml, respectively) and their correspondent protein expression (IC50 = 88.6, 76.4, and 81.6 μg/ml, respectively). Investigation of potential mechanisms indicated that CP 100 μg/ml reduced LPS-induced expression of TLR2 mRNA (66.9%, p < 0.01) and protein (63.2%, p < 0.01) that was a result of the decreased pro-inflammatory factors. LPS induction increased the expression of TLR2 and the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2, NF-kB p65 concomitantly. CP 100 μg/ml inhibited the LPS-induced phosphorylation of the signaling proteins (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This suggests that CP pretreatment down-regulates LPS-mediated inflammation in lung epithelial cells. This study further confirmed that CP is a potential anti-inflammatory drug for the treatment of airway inflammatory diseases.

Therapies for the bone in mucopolysaccharidoses

Patients with mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) have accumulation of glycosaminoglycans in multiple tissues which may cause coarse facial features, mental retardation, recurrent ear and nose infections, inguinal and umbilical hernias, hepatosplenomegaly, and skeletal deformities. Clinical features related to bone lesions may include marked short stature, cervical stenosis, pectus carinatum, small lungs, joint rigidity (but laxity for MPS IV), kyphoscoliosis, lumbar gibbus, and genu valgum. Patients with MPS are often wheelchair-bound and physical handicaps increase with age as a result of progressive skeletal dysplasia, abnormal joint mobility, and osteoarthritis, leading to 1) stenosis of the upper cervical region, 2) restrictive small lung, 3) hip dysplasia, 4) restriction of joint movement, and 5) surgical complications. Patients often need multiple orthopedic procedures including cervical decompression and fusion, carpal tunnel release, hip reconstruction and replacement, and femoral or tibial osteotomy through their lifetime. Current measures to intervene in bone disease progression are not perfect and palliative, and improved therapies are urgently required. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and gene therapy are available or in development for some types of MPS. Delivery of sufficient enzyme to bone, especially avascular cartilage, to prevent or ameliorate the devastating skeletal dysplasias remains an unmet challenge. The use of an anti-inflammatory drug is also under clinical study. Therapies should start at a very early stage prior to irreversible bone lesion, and damage since the severity of skeletal dysplasia is associated with level of activity during daily life. This review illustrates a current overview of therapies and their impact for bone lesions in MPS including ERT, HSCT, gene therapy, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole derivatives as anti-inflammatory agents

Rapid and efficient synthesis of a phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole library enabled cost-effective biological testing of a range of novel non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with potential for improved drug efficacy and toxicity profiles. Anti-inflammatory activities of the phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole analogs synthesized in this report were assessed using the xylene-induced ear edema model in mice. At least four analogs, 2a, 2b, 2c, and 4a, showed more potent effects than the reference anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac at the same dose of 25 mg/kg. To explore relationships between the structural properties of phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole analogs and their anti-inflammatory activities in xylene-induced ear edema, comparative molecular field analysis was performed, and pharmacophores showing good anti-inflammatory activities were identified based on an analysis of contour maps obtained from comparative molecular field analysis. The anti-inflammatory effect on the molecular level was tested by the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha induced COX-2 using Western blots. Because the addition of the analog 2c caused the expression change of TNF-α induced COX-2, the molecular binding mode between 2c and COX-2 was elucidated using in silico docking.

N(6)-isopentenyladenosine and analogs activate the NRF2-mediated antioxidant response

N⁶-isopentenyladenosine (i⁶A), a naturally occurring modified nucleoside, inhibits the proliferation of human tumor cell lines in vitro, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. Treatment of MCF7 human breast adenocarcinoma cells with i⁶A or with three synthetic analogs (allyl⁶A, benzyl⁶A, and butyl⁶A) inhibited growth and altered gene expression. About 60% of the genes that were differentially expressed in response to i⁶A treatment were also modulated by the analogs, and pathway enrichment analysis identified the NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response as being significantly modulated by all four compounds. Luciferase reporter gene assays in transfected MCF7 cells confirmed that i⁶A activates the transcription factor NRF2. Assays for cellular production of reactive oxygen species indicated that i⁶A and analogs had antioxidant effects, reducing basal levels and inhibiting the H₂O₂- or 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced production in MCF7 or dHL-60 (HL-60 cells induced to differentiate along the neutrophilic lineage) cell lines, respectively. In vivo, topical application of i⁶A or benzyl⁶A to mouse ears prior to TPA stimulation lessened the inflammatory response and significantly reduced the number of infiltrating neutrophils. These results suggest that i⁶A and analogs trigger a cellular response against oxidative stress and open the possibility of i⁶A and benzyl⁶A being used as topical anti-inflammatory drugs.

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i⁶A and analogs (allyl⁶A, benzyl⁶A and butyl⁶A) inhibit growth of MCF7 cells.

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They activate NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response.

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They inhibit ROS production in MCF7 or dHL-60 cells treated with H₂O₂ or TPA.

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In vivo topical application of i⁶A or benzyl⁶A reduces TPA-induced inflammation.

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i⁶A and benzyl⁶A have potential as topical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory drugs.