Spectroscopic studies on the interaction between an anticancer drug ampelopsin and bovine serum albumin

WS6 and 5-iodotubercidin small molecules and growth factors; TGF, HGF, and EGF synergistically enhance proliferation of β-like human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)

Objectives

It has been shown that growth factors and small molecules play an essential role in the proliferation of β cells and insulin production. In this study, we investigated the effects of small molecules (WS6 and 5-iodotubercidin) and growth factors (TGFβ, HGF, and EGF) on the proliferation of β-like human ipSCs.

Methods

iPSCs derived β cells were treated with small molecules and growth factors. Cytotoxic activity of small molecules and growth factors was determined using MTT assay. Insulin gene expression and secretion were measured by qPCR and ELISA, respectively. The protein expression of insulin was evaluated by western blot as well.

Results

Simltananeous addition of WS6 and Harmine into the culture media increased insulin gene expression compared to treatment by each molecule alone (p < 0.05). It was found that the simultaneous recruitment of EGH, HGF, and TGF-β increased insulin expression compared to treatment by each molecule alone (p < 0.05). Results showed that EGF, HGF, TGF-β growth factors increased insulin gene expression, eventually leading to insulin secretion from β cells (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Growth factors and small molecules synergistically enhanced the proliferation of β cells and insulin production.

Revealing the interaction mechanism between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and a fluorescent coumarin derivative: A multispectroscopic and in silico approach

The interaction of biomacromolecules with each other or with the ligands is essential for biological activity. In this context, the molecular recognition of bovine serum albumin (BSA) with 4-(Benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-yloxymethyl)-7-hydroxy-chromen-2-one (4BHC) is explored using multispectroscopic and computational techniques. UV-Vis spectroscopy helped in predicting the conformational variations in BSA. Using fluorescence spectroscopy, the quenching behaviour of the fluorophore upon interaction with the ligand is examined, which is found to be a static type of quenching; fluorescence lifetime studies further verify this. The binding constant is discovered to be in the range of 104 M-1, which indicates the moderate type of association that results in reversible binding, where the transport and release of ligands in the target tissue takes place. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) measurements validate the secondary structure conformational changes of BSA after complexing with 4BHC. The thermodynamic factors obtained through temperature-dependent fluorescence studies suggest that the dominant kind of interaction force is hydrophobic in nature, and the interaction process is spontaneous. The alterations in the surrounding microenvironment of the binding site and conformational shifts in the structure of the protein are studied through 3D fluorescence and synchronous fluorescence studies. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations agree with experimental results and explain the structural stability throughout the discussion. The outcomes might have possible applications in the field of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics.

Exploring the interaction of a potent anti-cancer drug Selumetinib with bovine serum albumin: Spectral and computational attributes

The binding of drugs to plasma proteins determines its fate within the physiological system, hence profound understanding of its interaction within the bloodstream is important to understand its pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics and thereby its therapeutic potential. In this regard, our work delineates the mechanism of interaction of Selumetinib (SEL), a potent anti-cancer drug showing excellent effect against multiple solid tumors, with plasma protein bovine serum albumin (BSA), using methods such as absorption, steady-state fluorescence, time-resolved, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), circular dichroism (CD), synchronous and 3D-fluorescence, salt fluorescence, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. The BSA fluorescence intensity was quenched with increasing concentration of SEL which indicates interactions of SEL with BSA. Stern-Volmer quenching analysis and lifetime studies indicate the involvement of dynamic quenching. However, some contributions from the static quenching mechanism could not be ruled out unambiguously. The association constant was found to be 5.34 × 105 M-1 and it has a single binding site. The Förster distance (r) indicated probable energy transmission between the BSA and SEL. The positive entropy changes and enthalpy change indicate that the main interacting forces are hydrophobic forces, also evidenced by the results of molecular modeling studies. Conformation change in protein framework was revealed from FTIR, synchronous and 3D fluorescence and CD studies. Competitive binding experiments as well as docking studies suggest that SEL attaches itself to site I (subdomain IIA) of BSA where warfarin binds. Molecular dynamic simulations indicate the stability of the SEL-BSA complex. The association energy between BSA and SEL is affected in the presence of different metals differently.

Study on the toxicity prediction model ofacetolactate synthase inhibitor herbicides based on human serum albumin and superoxide dismutase binding information

Toxicity significantly influences the successful development of drugs. Based on the toxicity prediction method (carrier protein binding information-toxicity relationship) previously established by the our group, this paper introduces information on the interaction between pesticides and environmental markers (SOD) into the model for the first time, so that the toxicity prediction model can not only predict the toxicity of pesticides to humans and animals, but also predict the toxicity of pesticides to the environment. Firstly, the interaction of acetolactate synthase inhibitor herbicides (ALS inhibitor herbicides) with human serum albumin (HSA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was investigated systematically from theory combined with experiments by spectroscopy methods and molecular docking, and important fluorescence parameters were obtained. Then, the fluorescence parameters, pesticides acute toxicity LD50 and structural splitting information were used to construct predictive modeling of ALS inhibitor herbicides based on the carrier protein binding information (R2 = 0.977) and the predictive modeling of drug acute toxicity based on carrier protein binding information and conformational relationship (R2 = 0.991), which had effectively predicted pesticides toxicity in humans and animals. To predict potential environmental toxicity, the predictive modeling of drug acute toxicity based on superoxide dismutase binding information was established (R2 = 0.883) by ALS inhibitor herbicides-SOD binding information, which has a good predictive ability in the potential toxicity of pesticides to the environment. This study lays the foundation for developing low toxicity pesticides.

Molecular interactions and binding dynamics of Alpelisib with serum albumins: insights from multi-spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking

Alpelisib (ALP) is a potent anti-cancer drug showing promising activity against advanced breast cancers. Hence, profound understanding of its binding dynamics within the physiological system is vital. Herein, we have investigated interaction of ALP with human serum albumin (HSA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) using spectroscopic techniques like absorption, fluorescence, time-resolved, synchronous and 3D-fluorescence, FRET, FT-IR, CD, and molecular docking studies. The intrinsic fluorescence of both BSA and HSA quenched significantly by ALP with an appreciable red shift in its emission maxima. Stern-Volmer analysis showed increase in Ksv with temperature indicating involvement of dynamic quenching process. This was further validated by no significant change in absorption spectrum of BSA and HSA (at 280 nm) upon ALP interaction, and by results of fluorescence time-resolved lifetime studies. ALP exhibited moderately strong binding affinity with BSA (of the order 106 M-1) and HSA (of the order 105 M-1), and the major forces accountable for stabilizing the interactions are hydrophobic forces. Competitive drug binding experiments and molecular docking suggested that ALP binds to site I in subdomain IIA of BSA and HSA. The Förster distance r was found to be less than 8 nm and 0.5 Ro < r < 1.5 Ro which suggests possible energy transfer between donors BSA/HSA and acceptor ALP. Synchronous and 3D-fluoresecnce, FT-IR and CD studies indicated that ALP induces conformational changes of BSA and HSA upon interaction.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Spectroscopic and molecular docking study of three kinds of cinnamic acid interaction with pepsin

In this work, under simulated physiological conditions (pH = 2.2, glycine hydrochloric acid buffer solution), the interactions of cinnamic acid (CA), m-hydroxycinnamic acid (m-CA) and p-hydroxycinnamic acid (p-CA) with pepsin were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation (MD). The spectrogram results showed that these three kinds of CA had a strong ability to quench the intrinsic fluorescence of pepsin, and the quenching effects were obvious with the increase of concentration of these three kinds of molecules. The quenching mechanism of CA, m-CA and p-CA on the fluorescence of pepsin was static quenching. In addition, a stable complex was formed between three kinds of CA with pepsin. Thermodynamic data and docking information suggested that three kinds of CA combine with pepsin were mainly driven by electrostatic force and hydrogen bond. The binding constant and the number of binding sites were determined. The interaction of CA, m-CA and p-CA with pepsin was spontaneous, and accompanied by non-radiative energy transfer. The results from CD, FTIR, UV-Vis and synchronous fluorescence spectra measurements manifested that the secondary structure of pepsin was changed by the binding of three kinds of CA. The β-sheet of pepsin increased after the interaction with three kinds of CA. The assay results of pepsin activity showed that three kinds of CA led to a decrease in pepsin activity within the investigated concentrations. Molecular docking investigation revealed the formation of polar hydrogen bonds as well as hydrophobic interactions between three kinds of CA with pepsin, and the ligand within the binding pocket of pepsin. MD results implied the formation of a stable complex between three kinds of CA and pepsin. The research suggested that cinnamic acid and its derivatives could be a potential effect on the structure and properties of digestive enzyme.

Digital Database of Absorption Spectra of Diverse Flavonoids Enables Structural Comparisons and Quantitative Evaluations

Flavonoids play diverse roles in plants, comprise a non-negligible fraction of net primary photosynthetic production, and impart beneficial effects in human health from a plant-based diet. Absorption spectroscopy is an essential tool for quantitation of flavonoids isolated from complex plant extracts. The absorption spectra of flavonoids typically consist of two major bands, band I (300-380 nm) and band II (240-295 nm), where the former engenders a yellow color; in some flavonoids the absorption tails to 400-450 nm. The absorption spectra of 177 flavonoids and analogues of natural or synthetic origin have been assembled, including molar absorption coefficients (109 from the literature, 68 measured here). The spectral data are in digital form and can be viewed and accessed at http://www.photochemcad.com. The database enables comparison of the absorption spectral features of 12 distinct types of flavonoids including flavan-3-ols (e.g., catechin, epigallocatechin), flavanones (e.g., hesperidin, naringin), 3-hydroxyflavanones (e.g., taxifolin, silybin), isoflavones (e.g., daidzein, genistein), flavones (e.g., diosmin, luteolin), and flavonols (e.g., fisetin, myricetin). The structural features that give rise to shifts in wavelength and intensity are delineated. The availability of digital absorption spectra for diverse flavonoids facilitates analysis and quantitation of these valuable plant secondary metabolites. Four examples are provided of calculations─multicomponent analysis, solar ultraviolet photoprotection, sun protection factor (SPF), and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)─for which the spectra and accompanying molar absorption coefficients are sine qua non.

Spectroscopic and Molecular Docking Study of the Interaction between Neutral Re(I) Tetrazolate Complexes and Bovine Serum Albumin

Re(I) complexes have potential in biomedical sciences as imaging agents, diagnostics and therapeutics. Thus, it is crucial to understand how Re(I) complexes interact with carrier proteins, like serum albumins. Here, two neutral Re(I) complexes were used (fac-[Re(CO)₃ (1,10-phenanthroline)L], in which L is either 4-cyanophenyltetrazolate (1) or 4-methoxycarbonylphenyltetrazole ester (2), to study the interactions with bovine serum albumin (BSA). Spectroscopic measurements, calculations of thermodynamic and Förster resonance energy transfer parameters, as well as molecular modelling, were performed to study differential binding between BSA and complex 1 and 2. Induced-fit docking combined with quantum-polarised ligand docking were employed in what is believed to be a first for a Re(I) complex as a ligand for BSA. Our findings provide a basis for other molecular interaction studies and suggest that subtle functional group alterations at the terminal region of the Re(I) complex have a significant impact on the ability of this class of compounds to interact with BSA.

Probing the interaction between 7-geranyloxycoumarin and bovine serum albumin: Spectroscopic analyzing and molecular docking study

7-Geranyloxycoumarin (auraptene; AUR), as a potent phytochemical, is the naturally abundant prenyloxycoumarin found in many genera of the Rutaceae family. As the interaction with serum albumins may play a crucial role in identifying their pharmacological properties, we investigated AUR binding profile with bovine serum albumin (BSA) by experimental and computational methods. Binding constant, binding site, mode of binding, and the BSA structural change upon AUR addition, were studied. UV-vis spectroscopy results and fluorescence quenching analysis proposed that AUR can form the ground state complex with BSA. Meantime, thermodynamic parameters (negative ΔH and ΔS values) revealed that hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions play major role, as intermolecular forces, in the AUR-BSA complex formation. Synchronous fluorescence spectra and circular dichroism (CD) data showed that the secondary structure of BSA did not change significantly in the presence of AUR. Moreover, molecular docking results showed that AUR binds to the subdomain IIIB of BSA.

Multispectral and computational probing of the interactions between sitagliptin and serum albumin

The binding of sitagliptin (SIT), an anti-diabetic drug, to human and bovine serum albumin (HSA and BSA; main serum transport proteins) was investigated using various spectroscopic and molecular docking techniques. The fluorescence data demonstrated that SIT quenched inherent fluorescence of these proteins through the formation of SIT-HSA/BSA complexes. The number of binding sites was obtained (~1) and binding constant (K_b) and effective quenching constant (K_a) were calculated as 10⁴ for both systems. Based on thermodynamic parameters, the van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding were the most important forces in the interactions between HSA/BSA and SIT, and the complex formation processes were spontaneous. The results of UV-vis absorption and FT-IR spectroscopic revealed that SIT induces small conformational changes in the structure of the proteins (HSA/BSA). The synchronous fluorescence (SF) spectroscopy demonstrated that the binding of SIT with HSA/BSA had no effect on the polarity around Trp and Tyr residues. The CD spectra showed changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of both proteins with a decrease in α-helices contents and an increase in β-turn structures. The molecular docking and spectroscopic data verified the binding mechanisms between SIT and HSA/BSA, and revealed that SIT completely fits into the hydrophobic cavity between domain II and domain III of these proteins.

Comprehensive spectroscopic studies of synergism between Gadong starch based carbon dots and bovine serum albumin

Carbon dots (C-dots) were used to study the binding mechanisms with serum protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA) by using two notable binding systems known as non-covalent and covalent interaction. Interaction between C-dots and BSA were estimated by Stern-Volmer equation and Double Log Regression Model (DLRM). According to the fluorescent intensity, quenching of model carrier protein by C-dots was due to dynamic quenching for non-covalent and static quenching for covalent binding. The binding site constant, K_A and number of binding site, for covalent interaction is 1754.7L/mol and n≈1 (0.6922) were determined by DLRM on fluorescence quenching results. The blue shift of the fluorescence spectrum, from 450nm to 421nm (non-covalent) and 430nm (covalent) and suggested that both the microenvironment of C-dots and protein changed in relation to the protein concentration. The fluorescence intensity results show that protein structure has a significant role in Protein-C-dots interactions and type of binding influence physicochemical properties of C-dots differently. Understanding to this bio interface is important to utilize both quantum dots and biomolecules for biomedical field. It can be a useful guideline to design further applications in biomedical and bioimaging.

Investigation of binding interactions between BSA and [EPMpyr][Sal] through spectroscopy studies, thermophysical and thermodynamic properties

The intensity of research, probing the interactions between proteins and ionic liquid (IL), has been increasing and parallels the fast-growing applications of ILs in biotechnology. The specific aspects which have attracted the involvement of researchers are stabilization, separation, biochemical and enzymatic reactions of proteins. In this work the synthesis of IL, epoxypropyl and N-methyl substituted 2‑oxopyrrolidinium cation with salicylate anion, [EPMpyr][Sal], and its interaction with aqueous BSA{BSA_(aq)-[EPMpyr][Sal]}. Measurements of thermophysical properties (density (ρ), and speed of sound (u)) showed that both moderately strong and weak interactions occur on treatment of BSA with that chosen IL. H-bond formation, dipole-dipole interactions and ionic interactions occurring in this system were investigated via thermophysical and thermodynamic properties as well as spectroscopic data. Thermodynamic data (excess molar volume (V_m^E), isentropic compressibility (k_s), deviation in isentropic compressibility (∆k_s) and intermolecular free length (L_f)) showed that there were stronger interaction between IL and BSA at higher temperature. The data from all the studies were correlated with Redlich Kister polynomial equation. The blue shift observed in the fluorescent spectra was interpreted to indicate that thetryptophan (Trp) residue of BSA moves to a more hydrophobic environment. It was also observed that the addition of more IL to BSA resulted in denaturation of BSA due to high hydrophobic nature of IL. Circular dichroism studies show that there were significant changes in the fine structure of BSA on interaction with IL. From the FTIR spectra the position of H-bond in the secondary structure of BSA was deduced.

Analytical investigation of the influence of ornidazole on the native protein fluorescence

A novel spectrofluorimetric method for the determination of ornidazole (ORN) in pure form and dosage forms was developed based on the influence of ORN on the native fluorescence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in a stimulated physiological environment. The obtained data reveal that the presence of ORN has a strong quenching effect on the fluorescence of BSA through both a dynamic and a static process. The parameters of the binding of ORN to BSA were calculated at different temperatures. Thermodynamic parameters values suggest a role of electrostatic and hydrophobic forces in the binding of ORN to BSA. The investigated method for the determination of ORN is accurate, precise and sensitive with a detection limit of 0.106 μg/mL and a quantification limit of 0.353 μg/mL. The quenching method was applied successfully in the determination of ORN in pure form and dosage forms.

Study on the interaction between surfactin and alkaline protease in aqueous solution

The interaction between surfactin and alkaline protease in aqueous solution has been studied. Ultraviolet visible absorption spectra (UV-vis) show that surfactin causes the extension of peptide chain of the alkaline protease resulting in the weakening of hydrophobic interaction between the hydrophobic groups. Fluorescence spectra indicate that the interaction of surfactin with the tryptophan and tyrosine residues led to a change of conformation of the alkaline protease. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) proves complex weak interactions between surfactin and alkaline protease, especially hydrogen bonds. Enzyme activity measurements demonstrate that low concentration of surfactin can increase the enzyme activity of alkaline protease, while high concentrations inhibit it. The particle size and Zeta potential measurements confirm that the system particle size and Zeta potential are dependent on the concentration of surfactin, in addition, there is the electrostatic interaction between surfactin and alkaline protease. Surface tension measurements indicate that the binds of surfactin and alkaline protease molecules are spontaneous. Based on experimental results, the composite model of surfactin and alkaline protease in aqueous solution is proposed.

Multi-spectroscopic and molecular docking studies on the interaction of darunavir, a HIV protease inhibitor with calf thymus DNA

Molecular interaction of darunavir (DRV), a HIV protease inhibitor with calf thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (ct-DNA) was studied in physiological buffer (pH7.4) by multi-spectroscopic approaches hand in hand with viscosity measurements and molecular docking technique. The UV absorption and fluorescence results together revealed the formation of a DRV-ct-DNA complex having binding affinities of the order of 10³M^-1, which was more in keeping with the groove binding. The results that DRV bound to ct-DNA via groove binding mode was further evidenced by KI quenching studies, viscosity measurements, competitive binding investigations with EB and Rhodamine B and CD spectral analysis. The effect of ionic strength indicated the negligible involvement of electrostatic interaction between DRV and ct-DNA. The thermodynamic parameters regarding the binding interaction of DRV with ct-DNA in terms of enthalpy change (ΔH⁰) and entropy change (ΔS⁰) were -63.19kJ mol^-1 and -141.92J mol^-1K^-1, indicating that hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces played a predominant role in the binding process. Furthermore, molecular simulation studies suggested that DRV molecule was prone to bind in the A-T rich region of the minor groove of DNA.

Multi-spectroscopic and molecular modeling approaches to elucidate the binding interaction between bovine serum albumin and darunavir, a HIV protease inhibitor

Darunavir (DRV), a second-generation HIV protease inhibitor, is widely used across the world as an important component of HIV therapy. The interaction of DRV with bovine serum albumin (BSA), a major carrier protein, has been studied under simulated physiological conditions (pH7.4) by multi-spectroscopic techniques in combination with molecular modeling. Fluorescence data revealed that the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA was quenched by DRV in terms of a static quenching procedure due to the formation of the DRV-BSA complex. The results indicated the presence of single weak affinity binding site (~10³M^-1, 310K) on protein. The thermodynamic parameters, namely enthalpy change (ΔH⁰), entropy change (ΔS⁰) and Gibbs free energy change (ΔG⁰) were calculated, which signified that the binding reaction was spontaneous, the main binding forces were hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. Importantly, competitive binding experiments with three site probes, phenylbutazone (in sub-domain IIA, site I), ibuprofen (in sub-domain IIIA, site II) and artemether (in the interface between sub-domain IIA and IIB, site II'), suggested that DRV was preferentially bound to the hydrophobic cavity in site II' of BSA, and this finding was validated by the docking results. Additionally, synchronous fluorescence, three-dimensional fluorescence and Resonance Rayleigh Scattering (RRS) spectroscopy gave qualitative information on the conformational changes of BSA upon adding DRV, while quantitative data were obtained with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).

Insights from a combination of theoretical and experimental methods for probing the biomolecular interactions between human serum albumin and clomiphene

In this study, the interaction of clomiphene (CLO), a non-steroidal and ovulatory stimulant drug employed in the treatment of infertility, with human serum albumin (HSA), the most abundant plasma transport protein, was investigated using spectrofluorometric, FT-IR, UV-Vis, and molecular modeling methods. The obtained results indicated that the binding of CLO to HSA led to intense fluorescence quenching of HSA via a static quenching mechanism, and that the process of CLO binding to HSA was enthalpy driven. By using experimental and theoretical methods, it was confirmed that as a result of binding CLO, slight conformational changes in HSA occurred. Also, the negative ΔH of interaction indicated that the binding of CLO with HSA was mainly enthalpy driven. The experimental and computational results suggested that hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions played a major role in the binding, with overall binding constants of K = 3.67 × 10⁹ M⁻¹ at 286 K and 6.52 × 10⁵ mol L⁻¹ at 310 K. Moreover, the results of molecular modeling showed that Asp234, Phe228, Leu327, and Arg209 in HSA had the highest interaction energies with the ligand.

In this study, the interaction of clomiphene with human serum albumin (HSA), the most abundant plasma transport protein, was investigated using spectrofluorometric, FT-IR, UV-Vis, and molecular modeling methods.

Molecular interaction of 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG) with human serum albumin (HSA): The spectroscopic, calorimetric and computational investigation

Drug molecule interaction with human serum albumin (HSA) affects the distribution and elimination of the drug. The compound, 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG) has been known for its antimicrobial, antiviral, antihelminthic and anticancer properties. However, its interaction with HSA is not yet reported. In this study, the interaction between HSA and DAPG was investigated through steady-state fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence (TRF), circular dichroism (CD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS). Fluorescence spectroscopy results showed the strong quenching of intrinsic fluorescence of HSA due to interaction with DAPG, through dynamic quenching mechanism. The compound bound to HSA with reversible and moderate affinity which explained its easy diffusion from circulatory system to target tissue. The thermodynamic parameters from fluorescence spectroscopic data clearly revealed the contribution of hydrophobic forces but, the role of hydrogen bonds was not negligible according to the ITC studies. The interaction was exothermic and spontaneous in nature. Binding with DAPG reduced the helical content of protein suggesting the unfolding of HSA. Site marker fluorescence experiments revealed the change in binding constant of DAPG in the presence of site I (warfarin) but not site II marker (ibuprofen) which confirmed that the DAPG bound to site I. ITC experiments also supported this as site I marker could not bind to HSA-DAPG complex while site II marker was accommodated in the complex. In silico studies further showed the lowest binding affinity and more stability of DAPG in site I than in site II. Thus the data presented in this study confirms the binding of DAPG to the site I of HSA which may help in further understanding of pharmacokinetic properties of DAPG.

Binding affinities of Schiff base Fe(II) complex with BSA and calf-thymus DNA: Spectroscopic investigations and molecular docking analysis

The binding interaction of a synthesized Schiff base Fe(II) complex with biological macromolecules viz., bovine serum albumin (BSA) and calf thymus(ct)-DNA have been investigated using different spectroscopic techniques coupled with viscosity measurements at physiological pH and 298K. Regular amendments in emission intensities of BSA upon the action of the complex indicate significant interaction between them, and the binding interaction have been characterized by Stern Volmer plots and thermodynamic binding parameters. On the basis of this quenching technique one binding site with binding constant (Kb=(7.6±0.21)×10(5)) between complex and protein have been obtained at 298K. Time-resolved fluorescence studies have also been encountered to understand the mechanism of quenching induced by the complex. Binding affinities of the complex to the fluorophores of BSA namely tryptophan (Trp) and tyrosine (Tyr) have been judged by synchronous fluorescence studies. Secondary structural changes of BSA rooted by the complex has been revealed by CD spectra. On the other hand, hypochromicity of absorption spectra of the complex with the addition of ct-DNA and the gradual reduction in emission intensities of ethidium bromide bound ct-DNA in presence of the complex indicate noticeable interaction between ct-DNA and the complex with the binding constant (4.2±0.11)×10(6)M(-1). Life-time measurements have been studied to determine the relative amplitude of binding of the complex to ct-DNA base pairs. Mode of binding interaction of the complex with ct-DNA has been deciphered by viscosity measurements. CD spectra have also been used to understand the changes in ct-DNA structure upon binding with the metal complex. Density functional theory (DFT) and molecular docking analysis have been employed in highlighting the interactive phenomenon and binding location of the complex with the macromolecules.

Cation-mediated optical resolution and anticancer activity of chiral polyoxometalates built from entirely achiral building blocks

We report the crystallization of homochiral polyoxometalate (POM) macroanions {CoSb6O4(H2O)3[Co(hmta)SbW8O31]3}15- (1, hmta = hexamethylenetetramine) via the counter cation-mediated chiral symmetry breaking and asymmetric autocatalytic processes. In the presence of low Co2+ concentrations both Δ- and Λ-enantiomers of 1 formed in the reaction, crystallizing into the racemic crystal rac-1. At a high Co2+ concentration, the polyoxoanion enantiomers showed a high level of chiral recognition via H-bonding interactions to crystallize into enantiopure crystals of Δ- or Λ-[Co(H2O)6{CoSb6O4(H2O)3[Co(hmta)SbW8O31]3}]13-. During crystallization, a microscale symmetry-breaking event and a nonlinear asymmetric autocatalysis process make the enantiomers crystallize in different batches, which provides an opportunity to isolate the homochiral bulk materials. The defined structures of the racemic and homochiral crystals thus provide a molecular-level illustration that H-bonding interactions are responsible for such high-level chiral recognition, in a process similar to the supramolecular chirality frequently observed in biology. These POM macroanions showed a high cytotoxicity against various cancer cells, particularly ovarian cancer cells. The antitumor activity of these compounds resulted at least in part from the activation of the apoptotic pathways, as shown by the flow cytometry, Annexin V staining, DNA ladder, and TUNEL assay, likely by blocking the cell cycle and complexing with proteins in cells. The POM macroanions reported herein provide promising and novel antitumor agents for the potential treatment of various cancers.

Binding interaction of phosphorus heterocycles with bovine serum albumin: A biochemical study

Interaction between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and phosphorus heterocycles (PHs) was studied using multi-spectroscopic techniques. The results indicated the high binding affinity of PHs to BSA as it quenches the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA. The experimental data suggested the fluorescence quenching mechanism between PHs and BSA as a dynamic quenching. From the UV–vis studies, the apparent association constant (K_app) was found to be 9.25×10², 1.27×10⁴ and 9.01×10² L/mol for the interaction of BSA with PH-1, PH-2 and PH-3 respectively. According to the Förster's non-radiation energy transfer (FRET) theory, the binding distances between BSA and PHs were calculated. The binding distances (r) of PH-1, PH-2 and PH-3 were found to be 2.86, 3.03, and 5.12 nm, respectively, indicating energy transfer occurs between BSA and PHs. The binding constants of the PHs obtained from the fluorescence quenching data were found to be decreased with increase of temperature. The negative values of the thermodynamic parameters ΔH, ΔS and ΔG at different temperatures revealed that the binding process is spontaneous; hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interaction were the main force to stabilize the complex. The microenvironment of the protein-binding site was studied by synchronous fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) techniques and data indicated that the conformation of BSA changed in the presence of PHs. Finally, we studied the BSA-PHs docking using Autodock and results suggest that PHs is located in the cleft between the domains of BSA.

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The interaction between BSA and PHs by spectroscopic methods.

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The fluorescence quenching mechanism is dynamic.

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Van der Waals force and hydrogen bond are the main force for BSA-PHs interaction.

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Docking of PHs-BSA interaction.

Spectroscopic investigation into the interaction of a diazacyclam-based macrocyclic copper(ii) complex with bovine serum albumin

Cyclam-based ligands and their complexes are known to show antitumor activity. This study was undertaken to examine the interaction of a diazacyclam-based macrocyclic copper(II) complex with bovine serum albumin (BSA) under physiological conditions. The interactions of different metal-based drugs with blood proteins, especially those with serum albumin, may affect the concentration and deactivation of metal drugs, and thereby influence their availability and toxicity during chemotherapy. In this vein, several spectral methods including UV-vis absorption, fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy techniques were used. Spectroscopic analysis of the fluorescence quenching confirmed that the Cu(II) complex quenched BSA fluorescence intensity by a dynamic mechanism. In order to further determine the quenching mechanism, an analysis of Stern-Volmer plots at various concentrations of BSA was carried out. It was found that the K_SV value increased with the BSA concentration. It was suggested that the fluorescence quenching process was a dynamic quenching rather than a static quenching mechanism. Based on Förster's theory, the average binding distance between the Cu(II) complex and BSA (r) was found to be 4.98 nm; as the binding distance was less than 8 nm, energy transfer from BSA to the Cu(II) complex had a high possibility of occurrence. Thermodynamic parameters (positive ΔH and ΔS values) and measurement of competitive fluorescence with 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulphonic acid (1,8-ANS) indicated that hydrophobic interaction plays a major role in the Cu(II) complex interaction with BSA. A Job's plot of the results confirmed that there was one binding site in BSA for the Cu(II) complex (1:1 stoichiometry). The site marker competitive experiment confirmed that the Cu(II) complex was located in site I (subdomain IIA) of BSA. Finally, CD data indicated that interaction of the Cu(II) complex with BSA caused a small increase in the α-helical content. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Investigation of the interaction between human serum albumin and antitumor palladium(II) complex containing 1,10-phenanthroline and dithiocarbamate ligands

The interaction between [Pd(But-dtc)(phen)]NO3 (where But-dtc = butyldithiocarbamate and phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) with HSA (Human Serum Albumin) was investigated by applying fluorescence, UV-Vis and circular dichroism techniques under physiological conditions. The results of fluorescence spectra indicated that the Pd(II) complex could effectively quench the fluorescence intensity of HSA molecules via static mechanism. The number of binding sites and binding constant of HSA-Pd(II) complex were calculated. Analysis of absorption titration data on the interaction between Pd(II) complex and HSA revealed the formation of HSA-Pd(II) complex with high-binding affinity. Thermodynamic parameters indicated that hydrophobic forces play a major role in this interaction. Furthermore, CD measurements were taken to explore changes in HSA secondary structure induced by the Pd(II) complex.

Mechanistic and conformational studies on the interaction of a platinum(II) complex containing an antiepileptic drug, levetiracetam, with bovine serum albumin by optical spectroscopic techniques in aqueous solution

Fluorescence spectroscopy in combination with circular dichroism (CD) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption spectroscopy were employed to investigate the binding of a new platinum(II) complex containing an antiepileptic drug "Levetiracetam" to bovine serum albumin (BSA) under the physiological conditions. In the mechanism discussion, it was proved that the fluorescence quenching of BSA by Pt(II) complex is a result of the formation of Pt(II) complex-BSA complex. The thermodynamic parameters ΔG, ΔH, and ΔS at different temperatures (283, 298, and 310 K) were calculated, and the negative value for ΔH and ΔS indicate that the hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions play major roles in Pt(II) complex-BSA association. Binding studies concerning the number of binding sites (n~1) and apparent binding constant K b were performed by fluorescence quenching method. The site marker competitive experiments indicated that the binding of Pt(II) complex to BSA primarily took place in site II. Based on the Förster's theory, the average binding distance between Pt(II) complex and BSA was obtained (r = 5.29 nm). Furthermore, UV-vis, CD, and synchronous fluorescence spectrum were used to investigate the structural change of BSA molecules with addition of Pt(II) complex. These results indicate that the binding of Pt(II) complex to BSA causes apparent change in the secondary structure of BSA and do affect the microenvironment around the tryptophan residue.

Effect of a Pluronic(®) P123 formulation on the nitric oxide-generating drug JS-K

PURPOSE

O(2)-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)1-[(4-ethoxycarbonyl)piperazin-1-yl]diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate] or JS-K is a nitric oxide-producing prodrug of the arylated diazeniumdiolate class with promising anti-tumor activity. JS-K has challenging solubility and stability properties. We aimed to characterize and compare Pluronic(®) P123-formulated JS-K (P123/JS-K) with free JS-K.

METHODS

We determined micelle size, shape, and critical micelle concentration of Pluronic(®) P123. Efficacy was evaluated in vitro using HL-60 and U937 cells and in vivo in a xenograft in NOD/SCID IL2Rγ (null) mice using HL-60 cells. We compared JS-K and P123/JS-K stability in different media. We also compared plasma protein binding of JS-K and P123/JS-K. We determined the binding and Stern Volmer constants, and thermodynamic parameters.

RESULTS

Spherical P123/JS-K micelles were smaller than blank P123. P123/JS-K formulation was more stable in buffered saline, whole blood, plasma and RPMI media as compared to free JS-K. P123 affected the protein binding properties of JS-K. In vitro it was as efficacious as JS-K alone when tested in HL-60 and U937 cells and in vivo greater tumor regression was observed for P123/JS-K treated NOD/SCID IL2Rγ (null) mice when compared to free JS-K-treated NOD/SCID IL2Rγ (null) mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Pluronic(®) P123 solubilizes, stabilizes and affects the protein binding characteristics of JS-K. P123/JS-K showed more in vivo anti-tumor activity than free JS-K.

Study on the synthesis of sulfonamide derivatives and their interaction with bovine serum albumin

Three sulfonamide derivatives (SAD) were first synthesized from p-hydroxybenzoic acid and sulfonamides (sulfadimidine, sulfamethoxazole and sulfachloropyridazine sodium) and were characterized by elemental analysis, (1) H NMR and MS. The interaction between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and SAD was studied using UV/vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectra under imitated physiological conditions. The experimental results indicated that SAD effectively quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA via a static quenching process. The thermodynamic parameters showed that hydrogen bonding and van der Waal's forces were the predominant intermolecular forces between BSA and two SADs [4-((4-(N-(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl)sulfamoyl)phenyl)carbamoyl)phenyl acetate and 4-((4-(N-(5-methylisoxazol-3-yl)sulfamoyl)phenyl)carbamoyl)phenyl acetate], but hydrophobic forces played a major role in the binding process of BSA and 4-((4-(N-(6-chloropyridazin-3-yl)sulfamoyl)phenyl) carbamoyl)phenyl acetate. In addition, the effect of SAD on the conformation of BSA was investigated using synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectra. Molecular modeling results showed that SAD was situated in subdomain IIA of BSA.

Binding interactions of niclosamide with serum proteins

A study of the binding of niclosamide (NC) to serum proteins such as human serum albumin, hemoglobin, and globulin was carried out using fluorescence and UV-visible spectroscopy. Interactions between NC and these proteins were estimated by Stern-Volmer and van't Hoff equations. The binding constants and the thermodynamic parameters, ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG at different temperatures were also determined by using these equations. Data showed that NC may exhibit a static quenching mechanism with all proteins. The thermodynamic parameters were calculated. Data showed that van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonds are the main forces for human serum albumin and hemoglobin. Globulin, however, bound to NC via hydrophobic interaction. The spectral changes of synchronous fluorescence suggested that both the microenvironment of NC and the conformation of the proteins changed in relation to their concentrations during NC's binding.

Spectroscopic and docking studies on the interaction between pyrrolidinium based ionic liquid and bovine serum albumin

The interaction of synthesized ionic liquid, 1-butyl-1-methyl-2-oxopyrrolidinium bromide (BMOP) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated using UV-Vis, FT-IR, steady state and time resolved fluorescence measurements and docking studies. Steady state spectra revealed that BMOP strongly quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA through dynamic quenching mechanism. The corresponding thermodynamic parameters; Gibbs free energy change (ΔG), entropy change (ΔS) and enthalpy change (ΔH) showed that the binding process was spontaneous and entropy driven. It is also indicated that hydrophobic forces play a key role in the binding of BMOP to BSA. The synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy reveals that the conformation of BSA changed in the presence of BMOP. The shift in amide I band of FT-IR spectrum of BSA suggested unfolding of the protein secondary structure upon the addition of BMOP. In addition, the molecular modeling study of BSA-BMOP system shows that BMOP binds with BSA at the interface between two sub domains IIA and IIIA, which is located just above the entrance of the binding pocket of IIA through hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions in which hydrophobic interaction are dominated.

Characterization of the Binding of the Finland Trityl Radical with Bovine Serum Albumin

Understanding the interactions of trityl radicals with proteins is required to expand their biomedical applications. In this work, we demonstrate that the Finland trityl radical CT-03 binds to bovine serum albumin (BSA) in aqueous solution. Upon binding with BSA, CT-03 exhibits a much broader electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signal and this line broadening can be reversed by proteolysis of the BSA. The binding induces a red-shift of the maximal UV-Vis absorbance wavelength of CT-03 around 470 nm, likely due to localization of CT-03 in the relatively hydrophobic region of the protein. The interaction between CT-03 and BSA is driven by a hydrophobic interaction with an estimated binding constant of 2.18 ×10⁵ M^-1 at 298 K. Furthermore, only one CT-03 is bound to each molecule of BSA and the binding site is determined to be the sub-domain IIA (Sudlow's site I). This protein binding of the trityl probe to albumin can be used to study the structure and function of albumin and also must be considered for its use as an in vivo imaging agent or spin label.