Synthesis, spectroscopic investigation, molecular docking, ADME/T toxicity predictions, and DFT study of two trendy ortho vanillin-based scaffolds

Crystal structure and biochemical characterization of aldehyde dehydrogenase isolated from Rhodococcus sp. PAMC28705

Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) is a widely recognized oxidoreductase that converts toxic aldehydes into harmless carboxylic acids, making it highly valuable for industrial applications. However, the effectiveness of ALDHs derived from Rhodococcus species in processing a range of aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes is still largely unexamined. Therefore, we cloned the ALDH gene from the cold-adapted strain Rhodococcus sp. PAMC28705 to address this gap and subsequently identified the crystal structure of rhALDH. By analyzing the unique structural features of the rhALDH active site, we evaluated its ability to process a wide range of aldehydes, with a focus on substrate specificity. Biochemical characterization revealed that at an optimal temperature of 30 °C and a pH of 8.0, it exhibited the highest catalytic efficiency, with a kcat/Km value of 1.12 μM-1 s-1 for propionaldehyde, which was higher than that of its homologous ALDHs. This indicates a strong affinity for this substrate, as demonstrated by a low Km of 321.9 μM and a rapid turnover rate kcat of 359.2 s-1. Adding disulfide reductants, such as dithiothreitol, 2-mercaptoethanol, and the metal ion Mg2+, further enhanced its activity. Working at mesophilic temperatures with good stability and substrate-specific catalytic efficiency, this novel rhALDH, which favors the conversion of propionaldehyde and benzaldehyde, provides a promising catalyst for biotechnological and sustainable bio-aldehyde elimination technologies. Thus, this study lays a foundation for future structure-function analyses of rhALDH, facilitating molecular modifications, the generation of mutants for improved stability, and the development of ALDH-targeted antibiotics.

8-Aminoquinoline-Based Promising Zn Complexes with Dicyanamide and Tricyanomethane Anions: Supramolecular R 4 4(8)/R 2 2(16) Synthons, DFT Rationalization, and Biological Insights

Considering the new crystal engineering integrity utilizing the DFT and the issues surrounding antimicrobial resistance in complexes, there is a pressing need to tackle antifungal photodynamic therapy about global health challenges. Within the sphere of this study, we meticulously introduce the synthesis, characterization, and single-crystal structure of two 8-aminoquinoline-based Zn complexes [Zn{(8-AMQ) (X)}2], X = dca (1) and TCM (2). The X-ray study reveals that the complexes crystallize in the monoclinic and triclinic space groups P21/c and P-1. The crystal packing in both complexes feature N-H···N hydrogen bonds as well as weak C-H···N interactions. The Hirshfeld surface provides quantitative insight into various supramolecular interactions, including π···π stacking, at large Cg···Cg distances. FMO supports the complexes' conductive behavior, excellent stability, and reactivity parameters. DOS investigation suggests good conductivity and reactivity properties. NBO analyzed that 2 exhibits a greater reactive and high potential charge transfer mechanism. The QTAIM/NCI-RDG plot ensured N···Zn/H···N interactions and explored new supramolecular R 4 4 (8)/R 2 2(16) crystal engineering synthons. The Trypan blue exclusion method was used to evaluate cytotoxicity against the DLA cell line, demonstrating 1's effectiveness against the cell, the lowest % of cell death, and a promising anticancer agent. The Zn complex antifungal photodynamic therapy finding showed significant activity against C. albicans.

Synthesis, characterization, and bioactivity of Cu(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Mn(II) complexes with benzilmonoximethiocarbohydrazide-O-methoxybenzaldehyde: experimental and computational insights

In this study, a novel ligand, benzilmonoximethiocarbohydrazide-O-methoxybenzaldehyde (HBMToMB), was synthesized and subsequently complexed with Cu(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Mn(II) ions. The metal complexes were comprehensively characterized using techniques such as NMR, IR, Mass Spectrometry, UV-Vis, elemental analysis (CHNS), and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The complexes exhibited superior antibacterial and antifungal activity compared to the free ligand. In addition, cytotoxicity was evaluated using the brine shrimp lethality bioassay, demonstrating significant activity. Computational studies, including molecular docking, DFT, and ADMET analysis, provided further insights into the compounds' binding affinities and electronic properties. These findings underscore the potential of these metal complexes as promising candidates for therapeutic applications, particularly in antimicrobial and anticancer therapies.

Targeting necroptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells: In Silico insights into 8,12-dimethoxysanguinarine from Eomecon Chionantha through molecular docking, dynamics, DFT, and MEP studies

Breast cancer remains a significant challenge in oncology, highlighting the need for alternative therapeutic strategies that target necroptosis to overcome resistance to conventional therapies. Recent investigations into natural compounds have identified 8,12-dimethoxysanguinarine (SG-A) from Eomecon chionantha as a potential necroptosis inducer. This study presents the first computational exploration of SG-A interactions with key necroptotic proteins-RIPK1, RIPK3, and MLKL-through molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD), density functional theory (DFT), and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) analyses. Molecular docking revealed that SG-A exhibited a stronger affinity for MLKL (-9.40 kcal/mol) compared to the co-crystallized ligand (-6.29 kcal/mol), while its affinity for RIPK1 (-6.37 kcal/mol) and RIPK3 (-7.01 kcal/mol) was lower. MD simulations further demonstrated the stability of SG-A within the MLKL site, with RMSD values stabilizing between 1.4 and 3.3 Å over 300 ns, indicating a consistent interaction pattern. RMSF analysis indicated the preservation of protein backbone flexibility, with average fluctuations under 1.7 Å. The radius of gyration (Rg) results indicated a consistent value of ~15.3 Å across systems, confirming the role of SG-A in maintaining protein integrity. Notably, SG-A maintains two critical H-bonds within the active site of MLKL, reinforcing the stability of the interaction. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated a significant reduction in MLKL's conformational space upon SG-A binding, implying enhanced stabilization. Dynamic cross-correlation map (DCCM) analysis further revealed that SG-A induced highly correlated motions, reducing internal fluctuations within MLKL compared to the co-crystallized ligand. MM-PBSA revealed the enhanced binding efficacy of SG-A, with a significant binding free energy of -31.03 ± 0.16 kcal/mol against MLKL, surpassing that of the control (23.96 ± 0.11 kcal/mol). In addition, the individual residue contribution analysis highlighted key interactions, with ARG149 showing a significant contribution (-176.24 kcal/mol) in the MLKL-SG-A complex. DFT and MEP studies corroborated these findings, revealing that the electronic structure of SG-A is conducive to stable binding interactions, characterized by a narrow band gap (~0.16 units) and distinct electrostatic potential favourable for necroptosis induction. In conclusion, SG-A has emerged as a compelling inducer of necroptosis for breast cancer therapy, warranting further experimental validation to fully realize its therapeutic potential.

Biological and Computational Studies of Hydrazone Based Transition Metal(II) Complexes

In the chronicles of human history, infectious diseases played a pivotal role, influencing societies, steering advancements in medicine, and significantly impacting the well-being of people worldwide. Consequently, in the pursuit of identifying effective combating agents for infectious ailments, the Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) complexes of N'-(4-nitrobenzylidene)benzohydrazide were synthesized in the current investigation. Numerous spectral and physical analysis were conducted to characterize the compounds which revealed octahedral stereochemistry of complexes. The anti-tuberculosis, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal investigations demonstrated that the compounds (1-5) have significant efficacy for these infectious ailments. The [Zn(L)2(H2O)2] complex (5) has comparable TB inhibition potency to streptomycin as shown by MIC value of 0.0196±0.0003 μmol/mL. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal studies also revealed the comparable inhibiting property of (5) to standard drugs with significant IC50 (07.49±0.08 μM) and MIC (0.0098 μmol/mL) values. Furthermore, pharmacophore modeling with addition of molecular docking, DFT, MESP, ADMET were employed against compounds (1-5) to give a new insight in biological evaluations. The pharmacophore modeling suggested that (5) has a distinctive pharmacophoric features including cationic sites, hydrogen-bond donors and acceptors which provide valuable insights into rational drug design for specific pharmacological applications. Moreover, another in silico investigations authenticate the bioactivity of (5) through substantial binding affinities, binding energy, stability, hardness, electrophilicity etc. Overall, the combined computational and experimental results highlight the potential of [Zn(L)2(H2O)2] as a promising candidate for tuberculosis treatment, meriting further in vivo investigations.

Organotellurium (IV) complexes as anti-malarial agents: synthesis, characterization and computational insights

Aim: To synthesize and evaluate the antimalarial and antioxidant activities of novel organotellurium (IV) thiophene-based complexes.Materials & methods: Synthesized complexes were characterized using NMR, IR and mass spectrometry. Their biological activities were assessed using in vitro assays and molecular docking studies.Results: The complexes exhibited significant antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum, with the highest activity observed for complexes 5b and 5e. ADMET properties confirmed their potential as therapeutic agents.

Exploration of newly synthesized transition metal(II) complexes for infectious diseases

Aim: In the annals of human history, infectious diseases significantly influencing the collective well-being of people worldwide. Consequently, to identify effective agents for infectious ailments, the octahedral Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) complexes of 4-(3-methoxyphenyl)pyrimidin-2-amine and 2-methoxy-1-napthaldehyde based ligand were synthesized and well characterized in the current investigation.Results & methodology: The synthesized compounds were evaluated for anti-TB, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal activities by microplate Alamar blue, bovine serum albumin, serial dilution assays. The [Zn(L1)2(H2O)2] complex (5) demonstrates robust potency with 0.0040 ± 0.0007 and 0.0038 μmol/ml MIC value in anti-tuberculosis and antimicrobial activities, correspondingly while 06.57 ± 0.03 μM IC50 value in anti-inflammatory investigation.Conclusion: Complex (5) show promising potential as targets for pathogen deformities, supported by rigorous biological and computational investigations including pharmacophore modelling, molecular docking (binding score -121.018 and -59.8662 kcal/mol for 6H53 and 1CX2 proteins, respectively), DFT (Density functional theory), MESP (Molecular Electrostatic Potential) and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity).

Synergistic Activity of Noble Trimetallic Nanofluids: Unveiling Unprecedented Antimicrobial Potential and Computational Insights

Nanofluids hold significant promise in diverse applications, particularly in biomedicine, where noble trimetallic nanofluids outperformed their monometallic counterparts. The composition, morphology, and size of these nanofluids play pivotal roles in their functionality. Controlled synthesis methods have garnered attention, focusing on precise morphology, content, biocompatibility, and versatile chemistry. Understanding how reaction parameters such as time, reducing agents, stabilizers, precursor concentration, temperature, and pH affect size and shape during synthesis is crucial. Trimetallic nanofluids, with their ideal composition, size, surface structure, and synergistic properties, are gaining traction in antimicrobial applications. These nanofluids were tested against seven microorganisms, demonstrating a heightened antimicrobial efficacy. Computational analyses, including molecular docking, dynamics, density functional theory (DFT), molecular electrostatic potential (MESP) analysis, and absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, and toxicology studies (ADMET) provided insights into binding interactions, energy, reactivity, and safety profiles, affirming the antimicrobial potential of trimetallic nanofluids. These findings emphasize the importance of controlled synthesis and computational validation in harnessing the unique properties of trimetallic nanofluids for biomedical applications.

Experimental and computational evaluation of anti-malarial and antioxidant potential of transition metal (II) complexes with tridentate schiff base derived from pyrrolopyrimidine

In the twenty-first century, we are experiencing persistent waves of diverse pathogen variations, contributing significantly to global illness and death rates. Within this varied spectrum of illnesses, malaria and oxidative damage emerge as prominent obstacles that have persistently affected human health. The motivation for exploring the antioxidant potential of transition metal (II) complexes with tridentate Schiff base ligands is driven by the need for effective treatments against malaria and oxidative stress-related conditions. Both malaria and oxidative damage are significant global health concerns. Transition metal complexes can potentially offer enhanced anti-malarial and antioxidant activities, providing a dual benefit. To explore the aforementioned facts and examine the therapeutic potential, the previously synthesized pyrrolopyrimidinehydrazide-3-chlorobenzaldehyde, such as HPPHmCB ligand(1)andtheirMn(II),Fe(II),Co(II),Ni(II), Pd(II),Cu(II),Zn(II),Cd(II),Hg(II)complexes(2-10) of benzaldehydes and pyrrolopyrimidinehydrazide were proposed for in vitro anti-malarial and antioxidant investigation. These compounds were assessed for their anti-malarial efficacy against Plasmodium falciparum using a micro assay protocol, with IC50 values indicating the concentration required to inhibit parasite maturation by 50%. The Hg(II) complex displays pronounced antimalarial activity with an IC50 value of 1.98 ± 0.08 µM, closely aligning with the efficacy of quinine, whereas Zn(II), Cu(II), Pd(II) complexes demonstrates most significant anti-malarial activity, with IC50 values close to the reference compound quinine. The antioxidant activity of the compounds was evaluated using the DPPH assay, with several metal complexes such as Cu(II)and Zn(II) showing strong potential in neutralizing oxidative stress. Furthermore, molecular docking simulations were conducted to explore the binding interactions of the compounds with PfNDH2, providing insights into their pharmacological potential. The study also examined the electronic properties, solubility, and potential hepatotoxicity of the compounds. The findings suggest that the metal complexes could be promising candidates for further development as anti-malarial agents, offering enhanced potency compared to the base compound.

Metal complexes featuring a quinazoline schiff base ligand and glycine: synthesis, characterization, DFT and molecular docking analyses revealing their potent antibacterial, anti-helicobacter pylori, and Anti-COVID-19 activities

Mixed ligand complexes of manganese(II), cobalt(II), copper(II), and cadmium(II)with an innovative Schiff base ligand denoted as (L1), 4-(2-((1E,2E)-1-(2-(p-tolyl)hydrazineylidene)propan-2-ylidene)hydrazineyl), served as the principal ligand, while glycine (L2) was employed as secondary ligand were successfully effectively characterized through a comprehensive set of analyses, including Elemental analysis, UV-Visible, FT-IR, Mass spectra, and conductometric measurements. Density functional theory (DFT) computations were executed to discern the enduring electronic arrangement, the energy gap, dipole moment and chemical hardness of the hybrid ligand assemblies. The proposed geometry for the complexes is a distorted octahedral structure. The antimicrobial efficacy of these compounds was assessed against a range of bacterial and fungal strains. Notably, these complexes exhibited promising antimicrobial activities, with the cadmium (II) complex demonstrating superior efficacy towards all tested organisms. These compounds were also examined for their antibiotic properties against H. pylori to explore their broader medical potential. The Schiff base ligand and its corresponding metal complexes displayed substantial potential as an antibiotic against H. pylori. Additionally, the antitumor potential of the synthesized complexes was assessed against MCF-7 (Breast carcinoma) cells-the Cu (II) complex demonstrated superior activity with the lowest IC50 value compared to cisplatin. Moreover, it exhibited reduced cytotoxicity towards normal cells (VERO cells) compared to cisplatin, establishing it as the most potent compound in the study. Furthermore, molecular docking was explored of the Schiff base ligand and its corresponding cadmium(II) complex. The analysis of the docking study yielded valuable structural insights that can be effectively utilized in conducting inhibition studies for example against COVID-19. This comprehensive study highlights these synthesized compounds' multifaceted applications and promising bioactive properties.

Exploring the antimalarial and antioxidant efficacy of transition metal(II) chelates of thiosemicarbazone ligands: spectral investigations, molecular docking, DFT, MESP and ADMET

Malaria, a relentless and ancient adversary, continues to cast its shadow over vast swathes of the globe, afflicting millions of people and have a heavy toll on human health and well-being. Despite substantial progress in the fight against this parasitic disease in recent decades, malaria still persists as a substantial global health concern, especially in some specific region which have limited resources and vulnerable populations. Thus, to ascertain an combating agent for malaria and its associated dysfunction, 4-(4-ethylphenyl)-3-thiosemicarbazide and benzaldehydes based two new thiosemicarbazone ligands (1-2) and their cobalt(II), nickel(II), copper(II), zinc(II) metal complexes (3-10) were synthesized in the present research work. The synthesized compounds were comprehensive characterized through spectral and physical investigations, demonstrating octahedral stereochemistry of the complexes. Further, the antimalarial and antioxidant potential of the compounds (1-10) were analyzed by micro assay and DPPH assay protocols, respectively, to examine the therapeutic aspect of the compounds. The performed biological evaluations revealed that the complexes are more efficient in controlling infectious ailment in comparison of ligands. The complexes (5), (6), (10) shows significant efficiency for malarial and oxidant dysfunctions whereas Zn(II) complex (6) exhibit highest potency with 1.02 ± 0.07 and 2.28 ± 0.05 µM IC50 value. Furthermore, to support the highest antimalarial potency of the (3-6) complexes and their associated ligand (1), the computational studies like molecular docking, DFT, MESP and ADMET analysis were executed which were supported the biological efficacy of the complex (6) by providing numerous parameters like binding interaction electronegativity, electrophilicity, HOMO value and electron density.

Investigation of natural compounds as methyltransferase inhibitors against dengue virus: an in silico approach

The global challenge posed by Dengue virus (DENV) infection persists, exacerbated by the absence of specific antiviral therapies. The viral methyltransferase (MTase) enzyme, crucial for viral RNA methylation and immune system evasion, has emerged as a promising drug target for combating Dengue fever. In this study, a comprehensive exploration of natural compounds derived from the COCONUT database was conducted, selecting 224 compounds based on their structural similarity to the native substrate of the MTase enzyme, S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM). Employing virtual screening techniques, four natural compounds (CNP0307160, CNP0082902, CNP0449158, and CNP0296775) with acceptable docking scores were selected for further re-docking after geometry optimization by the DFT method. Re-docking analyses unveiled significant interactions, including hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, between these selected ligands and the MTase protein. To gain deeper insights into the dynamic stability of these complexes, we conducted molecular dynamics simulations which showed lower RMSD values for CNP0307160, CNP0082902, and CNP0296775 when compared to the reference molecule. Furthermore, we assessed the structural and dynamic stability of the protein-ligand complexes through free binding energy calculations and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of the simulation trajectories. In these analyses, the CNP0296775 compound exhibited promising results compared to the other three compounds. The cumulative findings of these investigations underscore the potential of CNP0296775 as a strong inhibitor of DENV MTase, thus offering a promising starting point for its further experimental validation and optimization.

Insights from in silico exploration of major curcumin analogs targeting human dipeptidyl peptidase IV

The goal of this work is to use a variety of in-silico techniques to identify anti-diabetic agents against DPP-IV enzyme from five main curcumin analogues. To produce the successful molecules, five main curcumin analogues were docked into the active site of DPP-IV enzyme. In comparison to the control molecule (Saxagliptin, -6.9 kcal/mol), all the compounds have the highest binding affinity (-7.6 to -7.7 kcal/mol) for the DPP-IV enzyme. These compounds underwent further testing for studies on drug-likeness, pharmacokinetics, and acute toxicity to see the efficacy and safety of compounds. To assess the stability of the docking complex and the binding posture identified during the docking experiment, our study got THC as the lead compound, which was then exposed to 200 ns of molecular dynamic simulation and PCA analysis. Additionally, DFT calculations were conducted to determine the thermodynamic, molecular orbital, and electrostatic potential characteristics of lead compound. Overall, the lead chemical has shown strong drug-like properties, is non-toxic, and has a sizable affinity for the DPP-IV enzyme.

Biological and computational investigation of transition metal(II) complexes of 2-phenoxyaniline-based ligands

Aim: In the 21st century, we are witness of continuous onslaughts of various pathogen deformities which are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therefore, to investigate the grave for these deformities, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial biological activities were carried out against newly synthesized Schiff base ligands and their transition metal complexes, which are based on newly synthesized 2-phenoxyaniline and salicylaldehyde derivatives. Materials & methods: The synthesized compounds were characterized by various physiochemical studies, demonstrating the octahedral stereochemistry of the complexes. Results: The biological assessments revealed that complex 6 (3.01 ± 0.01 μM) was found to be highly active for oxidant ailments whereas complex 14 (7.14 ± 0.05 μM, 0.0041-0.0082 μmol/ml) was observed as highly potent for inflammation and microbial diseases. Conclusion: Overall, the biological and computational studies demonstrate that the nickel(II) complex 14 can act as an excellent candidate for pathogen deformities.